Bucks County Magazine Summer 26

BucksCounty

Summer 2026

Summer 2026 CONTENTS

Interior Designer Nancy Gracia renovated the historic John Milnor House on S. Sycamore Street in Newtown into a historically sensitive home and studio for the Bare Root Design Studio Inc. / By Beth. S. Buxbaum

Throughout the War for Independence, Washington and the Continental army stayed several times in Bucks County after the Battle of Trenton, and Bucks County became a dangerous and violent place / By Jeffrey Marshall

58 g At the Bare Root 78 g War In The Peaceable Kingdom 80 g Let’s Celebrate America’s 250th!

Bucks County and surrounding areas are celebrating America’s 250th Anniversary of American independence with parades, lectures, reenactments and many special events listed in this Guide / By Mary Beth Sshwartz

99 g 2026 Education Guide

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

128 g 2026 Guide to Healty Living

Bucks County’s Annual Healthy Living Guide features local hospitals, physicans and useful information about the staying healthy and fit for 2026

Our Artist in Residence Jennifer Hansen Rolli’s painting, “Summer of ’76” beautifully captures the spirit of the American Revolution and of our independence.

42 g Art Galley / By Michele Malinchak

Dyan Law, although she has painted landscapes, is more known for her portraits which give her the ability by the human connection to capture the depth and beauty of the human spirit

48 g In the Garden / By Lori Rose

The list of flowers that can be grown in a cutting garden is almost endless, they can be grown almost anywhere, and you don’t have to be especially creative to arrange your colorful harvest like a pro

51 g People / By Cynthia Marone

Historian, researcher and author Becky Diamond’s research brings her into 18th & 19th century Philadelphia to write period cookbooks and a new book about where the founders dined

116 g At Home / By Chrysa Smith

At Concepts in Concrete, simple concrete, when finished, is polished, epoxied and transforms spaces in businesses and homes into beautiful and durable and colorful rooms

120 g Getaway / By Bob & TanyaWaite

Not knowing much about the beaches of Delaware, Tanya and I decided to pick a small beach town in the southern part of the state where we could relax and explore

142 g County Fare / By Diana Cercone

Jemil and Sally Gadea’s Panna Gelateria & Bakery, located in Yardley, is where to scream for gelato as you try their gelatos, sorbetti, focaccia, pastries, cakes, pies and galettes

2026 RANGE ROVER

The finest since 1948

CELEBRATING 78 YEARS

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.

Newsstand Consultant John Cappello

Contributing Photographers

Randl Bye, Stacey Simcik, Bobby Waite, Paul Wesley

Account Executives

Rich Baldwin, Frank Boyd, Ann Ferro Murray, James Padilla, Bobby Waite

Bucks County Magazine, (ISSN 2164-9847), 309 W. Armstrong Drive, Fountainville, PA 18923, phone 215-766-2694 • Fax 215-7668197. www.buckscountymag.com. Published quarterly by BCM Media Company Inc., Fountainville, PA. All contents copyright by BCM Media Company DBA/Bucks County Magazine. All Rights Reserved. Published quarterly. Four-issue subscription for U.S. is $18.95, in Canada $35.00, U.S. dollars only. Periodical postage is paid at Mechanicsburg, PA. Permit # 25863. Single-copy price is $5.95 plus $3.00 postage and handling.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Bucks County Magazine, PO BOX 36, Morrisville, PA 19067. This magazine welcomes, but cannot be responsible for, manuscripts and photos unless accompanied by a stamped, selfaddressed return envelope.

Winner of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Best Remodel, Addition or Outdoor Building for over $100,000 for Poolside Elegance.

Winner of Custom Home of the Year from the Home Builders Association (HBA) for the Apple Hill Homestead.

•JOSEPH I BARRETT

Signature

TBy Bob Waite

he Declaration of Independence was signed on July 4, 1776 in the Assembly Room of the Pennsylvania State House (now Independence Hall) in Philadelphia. Although the 13 colonies declared their independence from Great Britain, the War for Independence had barely just begun. It wasn’t until September 3, 1783 that the Treaty of Paris was signed by representatives from the United States and Great Britain, formally ending the war and nearly two years after our victory at Yorktown in October 1781. During this period between declaring our independence and winning a war against the major world superpower of the era, Bucks County played a pivotal role. And so it is no wonder that Bucks Countians are excited about America’s 250th year of Independence and plan to celebrate in every town, village and hamlet.

In our collector’s Summer 2026 issue of Bucks County Magazine we placed a guide to area 250th events written by Mary Beth Schwartz called “Let’s Celebrate America’s 250th.” Mary Beth skillfully writes about the celebrations America had on the 1st Fourth of July in 1776 and about what she experienced as a child in Hunterdon County on Independence Day. Then she thoroughly lists and describes the 250th events being held throughout the county and beyond.

George Washington and the Continental Army stayed in Bucks County several times after the Battle of Trenton. Militias fought British troops, Loyalists were driven out of the county and violence between citizens became common during the Revolutionary period. Regional historian Jeffrey Marshall in his article, “War In The Peaceable Kingdom,” takes us back to the times when Bucks County was visited by Washington and the continental army. A time that Jeffrey Marshall said, “… was a much more unsettled, dangerous and violent place to be than most people today imagine.”

Our Cover, “Summer of ’76,” painted by Jennifer Hansen Rolli features a painting of a summer encampment of Washington and his troops that shows a young drummer and fife player in the foreground. We can see Washington standing with one of his officers in this depiction of Revolutionary War times.

In our Bucks People department Cynthia Marone interviews historian, researcher and author Becky Diamond, whose latest book is about City Tavern in Philadelphia—a place where the founders dined and met together during the days leading up to the signing of the Declaration of Independence.”

Our house feature in the Summer 2026 issue of Bucks County Magazine is the story of how talented Interior Designer Nancy Gracia renovated the historic John Milnor House on S. Sycamore Street in Newtown into a historically sensitive home and an Interior Design studio. The story of this historic renovation is told by Beth S. Buxbaum in “At the Bare Root.”

Also in the Summer 2026 issue we learn about how flowers for cutting can be grown in our garden. We meet the very talented and compassionate artist Dyan Law and a couple, Jemil and Sally Gadea, who have people screaming not for ice cream but for their incredible gelato. We have a story about the lasting and decorative beauty of concrete floors and a trip to Fenwick Island, Delaware. In this issue we also have two Guides: the 2026 Guide to Education and our 2026 Guide to Healthy Living. In the Summer 2026 issue of Bucks County Magazine, there is much more about the people, places and things to do this summer. Enjoy the 250th!

…visit Ski Barn in Lawrenceville or go online to browse their collections of furniture, firepits, pizza ovens, accessories & more. Ski Barn always offer free in-store, athome or virtual consultations and have their own delivery and set up crew. They deliver within 48-72 hours. Ski Barn is located at 2990 Brunswick Pike, Lawrenceville, NJ; 609-530-1666; www.skibarn.com.

Sampler

... 10’ x 10’ Garden Shed with LP Lap siding hip roof with cupola. From sheds to greenhouses and beyond, Lapp Structures can build the outdoor structure of your dreams, tailored to your exact needs to transform your outdoor space into a place of privacy and relaxation. Locations in Langhore, Quakertown and Silverdale. Visit www.lappstructures.com.

… Sudsations Candle Company is a local Quakertown company specializing in handcrafted, homemade soy candles, wax melts, bath bombs, shower steamers, and customized gift baskets. For more information contact them at 267-279-4112.

… Wolf luxury outdoor grills are premium cooking systems with precision control, heavy-duty stainless steel, and high-performance infrared sear zones. You can see these grills in person at the Mrs. G showroom located at 2561 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence Township,NJ; 609-882-1444; www. mrsgs.com.

... summer is a great time to fly. The Penn Flight Academy is offering an introductory flight lesson. This may lead to a dream come true. You might consider a career in aviation or just want to try something new. For more information contact Penn Flight Academy at 2425 Milford Square Pike, Quakertown, PA; 215-239-1441 or visit www.pennflight.com.

… Davide Pedersoli, Rolling Block Creedmoor #2, 45-70 Gov, 30" Barrel, Walnut Stock, Blued, Right Hand, 1 Round. In the last decades of the 1880's the customization of long-distance rifles was a very common habit among US shooters. Available at Survival Trail, Bucks County’s premier indoor firearms destinations. They offer a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere, expert instruction, and exceptional service including personalized training and convenient memberships. Visit their showroom in Pipersville featuring the latest products from leading manufacturers. Contact them at 215-766-0100; www.survivaltrail.com.

… Sail away! A wonderful stained glass transom window Sailing the River measures 15”tall by 35” wide. view of the river with a beautiful sailboat leisurely sailing down the coastline. A tree on the near shore and green-purple spring time on the far shore. Created in the copper foil method, the solder lines of this window panel are treated with black patina and polished to a shine. Available at the Red Tulip Gallery, New Hope PA; www.redtulipcrafts.com.

UP

THE HEART OF HOSPITALITY

Tucked away behind a peaceful, tree-lined drive sits a bubbling fountain, filled with lily pads in the spring. It serves as the courtyard anchor to an expansive 30-acre estate founded in 1740 and known as the first bed and breakfast in Bucks County—The Inn at Barley Sheaf Farm.

This inviting drive is where new owners Lo Soukhavong and Gwen Allen first met the previous stewards of the estate, Mark and Deena Frank — a meeting that quickly felt less like a business transaction and more like fate.

The Franks hoped to sell quietly, preserving the confidence and excitement of the many couples planning weddings and milestone celebrations at the Inn. More importantly, they wanted to find the right people: individuals who understood hospitality at its deepest level, valued relationships as much as operations, and would protect the soul of the property they had lovingly nurtured.

They found them in Gwen and Lo, alongside managing partners Teresa and Ahmad Elsayed.

Longtime friends from Central Florida, the group shares more than 80 years of combined experience spanning boutique inns, fine dining restaurants, catering, private clubs, and special events. But beyond resumes and accomplishments, theirs is a story rooted in loyalty, friend-

ship,and a shared calling toward hospitality.

“We found our people 20 years ago,” the team says.“... the Franks found us and we found Bucks County.” The partners love the area, and it brought them closer to their three separate families nearby in Pennsylvania, Maryland and New Jersey—as if heaven aligned.

That spirit of connection is woven throughout the Inn itself. Several employees have remained through three and four ownership transitions, with some dedicating nearly three decades to the property. In an industry often defined by change, that kind of longevity says something profound about the culture carefully cultivated here.

“It’s a special place,” says Teresa. “And we’re excited to bring new life and energy to the estate.”

The property itself feels timeless serving as a countryside retreat for locals and destinations alike. Offering sixteen luxurious guest suites, many with steam showers, fire places, and spa tubs that stretch across the ivy-covered 1740 manor house, the Kaufman-era cottages with a colorful stained glass sitting room and a beautifully modernized stone bank barn. Additional amenities include a spring fed Junior Olympicssize pool, spa services, and recreational games. For more information contact them at 215-794-5104 or visit www.barleysheaf.com.

Photo: Lynda Berry

EVERYONE IS TREATED LIKE FAMILY

Jay Spaziano has been in the real estate industry for over 45 years. His knowledge base and experience in many different housing cycles allows him to offer truly the best counsel when representing clients. Jay’s experience goes beyond residential resale and has corporate experience managing a multitude of sales teams and marketing efforts of new construction communities across Pennsylvania when he worked for a national home builder. This new construction base in a corporate environment has largely shaped his approach in the industry. Jay represents many local home builders and sellers of a variety of different properties and at all price points. Jay is a member of the National Association of Realtors and Home Builders Association. He has been conferred with GRI, ABR, EPRO and MIRM professional designations. Licensed in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, Jay is a graduate of LaSalle University. Jay believes that the transactional aspect of the real estate business is secondary to the forging of fulfilling relationships with satisfied clients throughout the years. Everyone is treated like family.

Julie Spaziano began her real estate career in 2018 while working as a salesperson with Compass, a real estate brokerage firm in Center City Philadelphia. Known for her hard work, enthusiasm and attention to detail, Julie connects easily with clients and specializes in working with first-time buyers. She approaches every transaction with integrity and dedication and is passionate about helping buyers find their perfect place. Having worked at a national hotel and resort management company, for the last 20 years, as a Director of Business Travel, Julie has years of hospitality sales experience and it’s no surprise that she excels at providing personalized attention. Julie earned her Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management from Penn State University.After living in Philadelphia for over 25 years, Julie now calls Washington Crossing home.While working alongside her father, the top producing agent in Buck’s County, Julie is able to witness firsthand what it takes to be a successful realtor and is enthusiastic about following in her father’s footsteps.

Jay Spaziano Real Estate is located at 1113 General Washington Memorial Blvd., Washington Crossing, PA; For more information, call 215860-2800, email jay@jayspaziano.com or visit www.jayspaziano.com.

LOVE LIFT FOR A LIVING

I’m Tari Zarka, Bucks County-born artist, innovator, and entrepre-

neur. Aspiring Artists of the Earth, more commonly known by the acronym,AAOTE, is a company I founded in 2004 to offer jewelry, gifts, art and home décor that’s meaningful, well-made, ethically and domestically sourced, all from a mission-based company that gives back as it grows.

Blessed to be introduced to the wholesale marketplace in our first year of business, works that I’ve created and curated have made their way into thousands of homes across this beautiful land. I’m deeply grateful for the community support that insists AAOTE persists through incredibly challenging times.

Working in several mediums, yet glass tends to captivate me most for the way it inspires, connects, and uplifts people. It transcends language and boundaries, communicating beauty and whimsy to anyone willing to pause and appreciate it.

Offering meaningful work that resonates with our highest vibrations is a way I get to love lift for a living.

I flamework my miniature, wearable TZ Glass art paintings for those of us who love to be outdoors. People often tell me they lose themselves in the calming vacation vibes of my Beaches and Mountain Scene pendants. One of the most meaningful experiences in my career has been hearing from customers who keep my Ocean and

Beaches pendants close while recovering from surgery, using them to feel connected to the sea when they cannot physically be there.

In 2005, I created Fidget Widgets—long before factories popularized the term. These slightly concave, smooth glass mindfulness pendants help people calm their nerves, stay grounded, and move through life with greater ease.

Function meets form, and my illustrations take shape in wood with AAOTE’s Aromatherapy Diffuser collections. Designed to bring essential oil wellness into everyday life for men, women, and children.

Since 2004,AAOTE’s initiated partnerships with 501 C-3’s to Live To Uplift, allocating at least 5 percent of profits to support community needs.

AAOTE is based on the historic grounds of my family’s former hosiery mill. Hidden down a long driveway is our retail brick and mortar. Visit to shop AAOTE’s diverse, Bucks County-made collections plus the work of 100-plus independent artists. I love seeking out the best of the best from my own extensive travels.

In further support of our creative spirits, we also offer a Bead Vault with lots of beads, jewelry-making supplies, fabrics, and classes for ages 6-plus in our newly revitalized classroom.

Located at 174 S. Main Street, Dublin, PA. 267-337-1817. For more information, visit www.aaote.com.

HEARTS IN MOTION EQUINE MASSAGE THERAPY

At Hearts in Motion Equine Massage Therapy, Kara is dedicated to helping horses move comfortably, perform confidently, and feel their very best. As the owner of Hearts in Motion, Kara provides individualized care tailored to each horse’s unique needs, whether they are competitive athletes, trail companions, lesson horses, or cherished retirees.

Kara graduated from the Delaware Valley University Equine Massage Program and has worked as a veterinary technician for over 13 years. Her extensive hands-on experience in animal care, combined with her passion for horses, allows her to provide thoughtful, professional care focused on each horse’s comfort and wellness.

Equine massage therapy is a non-invasive approach that can help reduce muscle tension, improve circulation, support flexibility, and

encourage relaxation. Horses experiencing stiffness, soreness, stress, or changes in performance may benefit from regular massage sessions as part of their overall wellness routine. Massage therapy can also support recovery after training, travel, or competition.

Each session at Hearts in Motion Equine Massage Therapy is designed to create a calm and positive experience for both horse and owner. Careful attention is given to areas of tension, movement patterns, and overall comfort to help horses feel and function their best.

To learn more or schedule a session, contact Hearts in Motion Equine Massage Therapy at 484-664-0094 or you can email Kara at heartsinmotionequine@gmail.com.

MERCER MUSEUM & FONTHILL CASTLE

ISABELLE ECKER JEWELRY

Beginning in 2012, Isabelle attended semester-long and weekend workshops in metalsmithing at Moore and Tyler School of Art in Philadelphia, PA for several years.

These experiences helped Isabelle form a crystal-clear vision for her future: she would launch a jewelry business specializing in one-of-a-kind pieces.

But Isabelle’s relationship with jewelry started years before she formally entered the industry. As a little girl, Isabelle loved making art and creating something beautiful with her hands. She would make seed bead rings and glass bead necklaces before she discovered sterling silver and gold.

In high school, Isabelle worked at Randolph’s Fine Jewelry in Chestnut Hill, PA.Working alongside master jeweler Randolph Tartaglio, she learned the ropes of running a business, crafting high-end pieces and building strong customer relationships.

Isabelle went on to attend Tyler School of Art as a fine arts undergraduate and recently graduated from GIA's Jewelry Design and Technology program in 2020. Her work has been featured in British Vogue and British Vanity Fair, and she’s proud to have showcased her work at State College Arts Fest for the last seven years. During the 2024 State College Arts Fest she won the Award of Merit.

Isabelle works tirelessly in her studio to create beautiful pieces of jewelry. Her designs reflect the organic forms and textures found

in nature, bringing a sense of wonder and elegance to each piece she creates.

To see Isabelle Ecker Jewelry and shop or have a custom piece made, visit www.isabelleeckerjewelry.com.

BUCKS COUNTY ROOTS

Rodgers and Hammerstein’s sweeping wartime romance — with deep Bucks County roots—returns for the nation’s 250th celebration. Set against the lush backdrop of an island paradise during World War II, South Pacific is a tale of love, duty, and cultural divides. When U.S. Navy nurse Nellie Forbush falls for a mysterious French planter, and young lieutenant Cable faces his own forbidden romance, both must confront the prejudices that threaten their happiness. Featuring unforgettable songs including “Some Enchanted Evening,” “Younger Than Springtime,” and “There Is Nothin’ Like a Dame,” this Pulitzer Prize–winning musical remains one of Broadway’s most enduring classics— passionate, poignant, and as timely as ever. At the Bucks County Playhouse from June 18—July 26, located at 70 South Main Street, New Hope, PA. For tickets and times, call 215862-2121 or visit www.bcptheater.org.

A MULTI-DEALER ANTIQUES CENTER

The Bucks County Antique Center is a multi-dealer shop located in Lahaska Pa. A perfect place to visit for the collector, interior decorator or homeowner looking for that special interesting show peace.

The shop features a wide variety of 18th and 19th century furnishings and accessories.Their showcases are filled with quality and interesting items.You’ll find unique home décor pieces as well as collectibles. And they feature Bucks County paintings and Folk Art. It houses twenty dedicated antique dealers. Quality consignments are always welcome. Some of our dealers have been with the Antiques Center since the beginning.

The shop is owned and operated by Glen Hart and business partner Mitch Michener. The original plan was to open a multi dealer shop featuring room settings and small items in showcases. They thought they would try it for one year starting in July 2001. Twenty-five years later they are still there.

It is time to visit and explore the Bucks County Antique Center and see what finds you will find. The shop is located at 5761 York Rd, Lahaska Pa 18931. They are open Thursday thru Sunday, 11am till 5pm. You can reach us at 215-794-9180 or 215869-2668 anytime. Lampshades by Design offers hand sewn lampshades and can be contacted at 267-261-0160.

CALENDAR

Ukrainian Folk Festival August 25th, Horsham, PA.

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

June 26-27: Vintage Antiques and Collectors Extravaganza

July 18; September 12: Flash Train Meet September 18-19:Kutztown Antiques Radio and Vintage Electronics Meet Admission. Rain or shine. 740 Noble Street, Kutztown, PA. 570-385-0104; www.renningers.net.

Doylestown’s Classic Car Show

July 18: 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. www.doylestownatdusk.com

New Hope Auto Show

August 8-9 This annual auto show features both antique and classic cars. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission. Parking fee. New Hope-Solebury High School, NewHope, PA; www.newhopeautoshow.com.

Art

AAOTE Gallery

July 4-August 8th: Sea Life Wearable

Glass Art show. Opening reception July 24th 5-7pm.

August 21st-September 4th: Ground and Learn Mindfully Show. Opening reception August 21st 5-7pm.

AAOTE Art Gallery, 174 S. Main Street, Dublin, PA; www.aaote.com.

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.

What to do in Bucks County

and surronding areas!

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. 215-794-4300; www.silvermangallery.com.

James A. Michener Art Museum

Through October 4: And So to Work: B.J.O Nordfeldt;s Lambertville

June 27-January 10: The Crossing: Picturing the American Revolution

June 20: Beginner Stained-Glass Workshop

June 29: Stained Glass 2

July 15: Nature‘s Best Hope with Doug Tallamy

July 18: Jazz Night: Ensemble Novo

July 23: Seated Mindfulness with Joe Simek

August 1: Jazz Night: Dave & Alex Posmontier

August 13: Yoga in the Galleries 138 South Pine Street, Doylestown, PA. 215-340-9800; www.michenerartmuseum.org

Princeton University Art Museum

Ongoing: Princeton History Walking Tour

Through July 5: Toshiko Takaezu: Dialogues in Clay

Through July 26: Willem de Kooning: The Breakthrough Years, 1945–50

July 19 -July 3, 2027: Clay Has Memory: Creative Lineages from Africa

Through September 7: Photography as a Way of Life: Minor White, Aaron Siskind, Harry Callahan

Through November 1: What is an American? Artists Reflect Princeton, NJ. 609-258-3788 www.artmuseum.princeton.edu.

Artists’ Gallery

Through July 5: Under the Same Sky Beatrice Bork and Joe Kazimierczyk

July 9-August 2: A Walk Nature: Light, Shadow and Color" Nancy Lloyd and Harvey Rogosin

August 6-September 6: Mitnick and Andrew Werth

September 10-October 4: TingTing Hsu and Michael Schweigart 18 Bridge Street, Lambertville, NJ. 609397-4588; www.lambertvillearts.com.

Artists of Yardley (AOY)

June-August: Summer Camps

July 6-August 20: Summer Adult Art Classes

July 25-August 15: Summer Adult Workshops

September 11: Members Show

September 20: Art on the Farm 949 Mirror Lake Road, Yardley, PA. 215493-1205; www.aoyarts.org

Philips Mill

July 24 - 26: Premiere Showcase

July 26 – August 30: Submission period for the 97th Juried Art Show at Phillips' Mill Through August 9: Submission Period for the 9th Annual Emerging Playwright Competition

Peach Festival Peddlers Village August 1 & 2, Peddlers Village, Lahaska, PA

Through August 27: PleinAir Mornings at the Mill

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

Stover Mill Gallery

Through. June 28: Shirley Mersky & Denisce

Callanan Kline: Oil, Gouache & Graphite

July 4-August 1: Jas Szygiel: Oil and Watercolor

August 8-30: Anne Landis & Loretta Tryon, Watercolor, Pastel & Bronze

September 12-Ocotber 4: Jeff Charlesworth & Reny Willoughby, Clay, Oil, Wax & Mixed Media

Tinicum Civic Association. 852 River Road, Erwinna PA.

Crafts

Tinicum Arts Festival

July 11-12: 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.

Traditional Artisan Show

August 15-16: Celebrate the enduring spirit of American craftsmanship at the Bedminster Traditional Artisan Show, which brings together over 45 of the country's finest artisans working in traditional Americana and folk art. Meet the artisans and shop for handcrafted treasures including furniture, paintings, quilts, hooked rugs, pottery, baskets, and woodcarvings. 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 12-13: 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 26-27: 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; .www.newhopearts.org.

Peace Craft Show and Marketplace

September 26: 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 Road Perkasie, PA.; www.peace-tohickon.org

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

Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival

Through June 28: Million Dollar Quartet June 24-July 1: The Complete Works of Jane Austen

July 3-August 1: Sheila the Magical July 8: Romeo &Juliet July 16-August 1: Moriarty

The Professional Theatre at DeSales Uni-

versity, 2755 Station Avenue, Center Valley, PA. 610-282-WILL; www.pashakespeare.org.

Bristol Riverside Theatre

June 24-June 28: Tap into Soul

July 22-July 26: Rock Revisited

August 5-9: The Selena Experience

August 26-August 30: Sixtiesmania 120 Radcliffe Street, Bristol, PA; 215-7850100; www.brtstage.org.

Town and Country Players

July 10-25: Tuck Everlasting

September 25-October 10: One Flew Over the Cuckoos Nest

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

Newtown Arts Company

Through June 19: Disney’s Descendants

August 6-9: Legally Blonde the Musical Newtown, PA. 215-860-7058; www.newtownartscompany.com.

New Hope Winery

June 26: Good Vibrations - A Beach Boys Tribute

August 28: Kid Charlemagne - A Tribute to Steely Dan 6123 Lower York Road, New Hope, PA.

215-794-2331; www.newhopewinery.com.

Musikfest 2026

July 31-August 9: 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 18-July 26: Rodgers & Hammerstein’s South Pacific

August 13-September 13: Rent

September 18-19: Yacht Rock Gold Experience

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

McCarter Theatre Center

August 19-30: All the Devils Are Here

September 3: Sun Ra Arkestra

September 4: Mei Semones

September 10: Julio Torres:Works in Progress

September 12: Edmar Casteneda

September 18: Gary Gulman:Grandiloquent 91 University Place, Princeton, NJ. 609258-2787; www.mccarter.org.

The Actors’ NET of Bucks County Through June 28: Macbeth

The Heritage Center Theatre, 635 North

Delmorr Avenue, Morrisville, PA. 215-2953694; www.actorsnetbucks.org.

State Theatre Center for the Arts

June 18: Buley’s Big Play

July 20: Arcadia

September 27: Three Dog Night

September 30: Pat Metheny

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

Sellersville Theatre

June 26: Gary Hoey

July 3: Crystal Ship: Ultimate Tribute to the Doors

July 5: Tab Benoit Soul of the The Swamp Tour

July 15: Lindsey Webster

July 17: Cracky the Sky

July 25: Craig Shoemaker

August 7: Sister Hazel

August 15: Pam Tillis

September 17: Zebra 50th Anniversary Tour

136 North Main Street, Sellersville PA; www.st94.com.

Equestrian

Tinicum Park Polo Club

June 20: National Youth Tournament Series

July 4: Fourth of July Classic

July 18: Horsepower Car Show

July 25: Clubhouse Classic

August 1: USPA Women’s Challenge Cup

August 8: Hat Day

August 22: Pooches & Polo

September 5: Charlie Chukker Cup

September 12: New Hope Celebrates 961 River Road, Erwinna, PA. 908-996-3321 www.tinicumparkpoloclub.org.

Bucks County Horse Park

June 21: USEA Recognized Horse Trail

July 11: USEF/USDF -Dressage at the Park III

July 19, September 13: Schooling Horse Trails

July 26: Forward Strides Hunter Jumping Series

July 31, August 21, September 18: Friday Evening Eventing

August 9: Schooling Horse Trail

August 29: USEA Young Event Horse

September 12: Simple Changes Schooling Dressage Series

September 19: Judged Trail Ride 8934 Easton Road, Revere, PA. 610-847-8597; www.buckscountyhorsepark.org.

Radnor Hunt Concours d’Elegance

September 11-13: 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 17: WIB Spring Fling Social

July 16: Chamber Collab Mix and Mingle

July 23: Young Professionals Present: Bingo at the Bar

August 12: New Member Orientation

Central Bucks Chamber of Commerce, Doylestown, PA. 215-348-3913 www.centralbuckschamber.com.

Mount Hope Estate & Winery

June 27-28: Celtic Fling & Highland Games

July 11: Blues & Brews

August 15-October 25: Pennsylvania Renaissance Fair

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

Peddler’s Village

June 19-July 19: Bucks Fever Art & Sculpture Exhibition

June 14-July 6: Bucks Fever- Art & Sculpture Exhibition

July 4: Red, White, Blue BBQ Bash

July 24-26: Santa’s Summer Holiday

August 1-2: Peach Festival

Through August 31: Sights in Sand Routes 202 and 263, Lahaska, PA. 215-794-4000; www.peddlersvillage.com.

Newtown Welcome Day

June 14: 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 Artists! www.newtownba.org.

Southampton Days

June 29-July 4: 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 Pennridge Community Day

June 27: 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.

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. 215822-1391; www.newbritaintownship.org.

Doylestown Road Angels

July 18: 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/

Under the Stars Car Show

August 15: 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 23: 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.

Peace Fair

September 26: 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.

Giggleberry Fair

Ongoing: Climb Giggleberry Mountain, learn at Giggles Discovers, visit The Game Room, and take a ride on the antique Grand Carousel at Giggleberry Fair. Peddler’s Village, Routes 202 and 263, Lahaska, PA. 215-7944000; www.peddlersvillage.com.

New Hope & Ivyland Railroad

Ongoing: Train Excursions

July: Christmas in July

32 West Bridge Street, New Hope, PA. 215862-2332; www.newhoperailroad.com.

The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University

Through July 12: Spotlight Gallery: Neighborhood Naturalists

July-August: Summer at the Academy Admission. 1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, PA. 215-299-1000; www.ansp.org.

Shady Brook Farm

June-September: This Bucks County farm has lots in store this coming summer. They will be having festivals honoring different fruit crops, including strawberries, blueberries, peaches, and apples. 931 Stony Hill Road, Yardley, PA. 215-968-1670; www.shadybrookfarm.com.

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.

4-H & Agricultural Fair

August 19-23: 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

Tyler Arboretum

Saturdays: Wildflower Walk

Ongoing: Saturday Explorers

Ongoing: Vinyasa Flow Yoga

June 18: Richards Rambles

June 20: Beyond the Fence Trail Hike

June 30: Nature at Night: Fireflies

July 11: Secrets of the Pond

July 14: Nature at Night: Reptiles

August 1: Mushroom Walk

August 4: Nature at Night: Animal Adaptations

August 11: Nature at Night: Pennsylvania Wildlife 515 Painter Road, Media, PA. 610-566-9134; www.tylerarboretum.org.

New Hope Historical Society

Ongoing: Museum Tours

Ongoing: Walking Tours

July 3: Fireworks to Celebrate 250th Birthday 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-Garden-Consortium 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.

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. 215862-5652; www.newhopehs.org.

Octagonal Schoolhouse

June 21: Come to the open house of this unique schoolhouse. Artists April Ann Bohmler, Kay King and Trisha Vergis will show some of their favorite origianl works. 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.

Mercer Museum

Through October: Movies at the Mercer

Through December: The Doan Gang; Outlaws of the Revolution

June 28: Doans and the Revolution

August 6: Spill the Tea! The Making of the Doan Exhibition

August 8: Crafternoon:Summer Fun

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 19: Juneteenth Celebration

June 21: Open Hearth Cooking:17th Century Beverage

June 27: Brews and Bites Fundraiser

July 5, September 6: Historic Trade Demonstrations

July 12: Open Hearth

Cooking:Meats:Cheese and Dairy

August 9: Living History Theater: Pirates in the Tavern

August 30: Animals at Pennsbury 400 Pennsbury Memorial Road, Morrisville, PA. 215-946-0400; www.pennsburymanor.org.

Fonthill Castle

Ongoing: Evening Castle Tours

June -October: Fonthill Castle Meander Days

June 20; July 5: Fonthill Castle Meander Days

July 4: Fonthill Castle 4th of July

July 10-11: Shakespeare at the Castle

August 22: Castle Beer Fest

East Court Street and Route 313, Doylestown, PA; 215-348-9461; www.fonthillmuseum.org.

Pearl S. Buck House

Through October 18: Pieced Together: American Quilts Across Generations

June 21: Writers Guild

June 23: Rain Poetry

July 16; August 20: Volunteer Orientations 520 Dublin Rd, Perkasie, PA. 215-249-0100; www.pearlbuck.org.

Heritage Conservancy

July 29: Glow Hike & Moth Night

August 6: Membership Appreciation #2: Summer Nature Celebration

August 20: Business Partner Happy Hour at Neshaminy Creek Brewing

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

Heritage Day

July 12: 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.

Erwin Stover House

June 28, August 30: Milling Days

August 13: An 1820s Evening of Card Games and Gossip

September 12:1920s Jazz Age Barn Dance

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

Washington’s Headquarters at the Moland House

Ongoing: Tours of historic house and antique furnishings

June 28, July 28: Blacksmith Demonstrations

July 12, August 9, September 13: Woodshop Demonstrations

July 12, August 9, September 13: Open Hearth Cooking

Warwick Township Historical Society, 1641 Old York Rd. Hartsville, PA ;215-918-1754; www.moland.org

Honey Hollow Nature Center

Ongoing: Saturday Morning Bird Walks

Ongoing: Private Event: Horticutural herapy

June-August Summer Camps

June 27: Full Moon &Fireflies

2877 Creamery Road, New Hope, PA. 215297-5880; www.honeyhollownaturecenter.org

Bucks County Covered Bridge Tour

Ongoing: The Bucks County Conference & Visitors Bureau and the Bucks County Covered Bridge Society present this self-guided tour of Bucks County’s covered bridges. The tour begins at Washington Crossing Historic Park. The 90-mile tour makes a large circle through Bucks County and is designed so that travelers can start at any one of the bridges. GPS coordinates are given for each of the bridges. Pick up a copy of the brochure Visit the Historic Covered Bridges of Bucks County at locations throughout Bucks County. www.visitbuckscounty.com; www.buckscountycbs.org.

Churchville Nature Center

June 14: Invasive Species Nature Walk

June 26: Bugs & Beetle Campfire

July 17: Moths Campfire

August 1-2: Arthropalooza

August 7: Singing Insects Campfire

501 Churchville Lane, Churchville, PA. 215-357-4005; www.churchvillenaturecenter.org.

Peace Valley Nature Center

June 21: Summer Kick Off: Ice Cream Social with Yard

July 2: Vernal Pool Monitoring

July 19: Bat Bonanza

July 25: Kids Art in Nature Exploration

August 6: Nature Sketch Group 170 North Chapman Road, Doylestown, PA. 215-345-7860; www.peacevalleynaturecenter.org.

Silver Lake Nature Center

June 27, July 18: Nature Crochet Series

July 11: Invasive Plants Removal (“IPR Team”) Project Day 1306 Bath Road, Bristol, PA. 215-785-1177; www.silverlakenaturecenter.org.

Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve

Ongoing: Naturalist Guided Interpretive Walks

Ongoing: Gentle Wild Yoga

September 18: National Paw Paw Day September 26 is Preserve & Play. 1635 River Road, New Hope, PA. 215-8622924; www.bhwp.org.

Somerset County’s T Annual 21st PAS THE THROUGH JOURN ST NEY

Human Connection

Dyan Law, although she has painted landscapes, is more known for her portraits which give her the ability through the human connection to capture the depth and beauty of the human spirit

Artist Dyan Law still recalls the day, at age five, when her mother brought home a fresh box of crayons to their apartment in Jackson Heights, NY. The walls were newly painted white, creating a temptation she couldn’t resist. “I thought, what an amazing canvas! I took my crayons and wrote all over those walls and said, Mommy, you have to come see my pictures!” Her mother was horrified and apologized profusely to the superintendent. Dyan was ordered to scrub the walls clean with a bucket and a brush—no easy task given the waxy crayons. Undaunted, she still had the last word. Clutching the hot pink crayon she declared, “You wait and see. I’m gonna be an artist!”

distinguished artists including Richard Schmid, Frederick Franck, Everett Raymond Kinstler and Daniel E. Greene.

Her prediction came true. Today, Dyan Law is an accomplished artist whose career has spanned teaching, illustration, product design and fine art. “They’ve all contributed to where I am now and the choices I make,” she said.

Throughout her professional life, one theme has remained constant: human connection and an appreciation of others. Through her art she hopes to capture the depth and beauty of the human spirit.

Although she began by painting landscapes, portraiture always called to her. One of her instructors, renowned artist Burton Silverman once told her, “A portrait is a landscape of the face.” Over the years, she has studied under a long list of

While studying figure drawing with Frederick Franck, author of The Zen of Seeing, she got a surprising nod from him that shaped her future. “He was mean to all the students. I thought he probably hated all of us, but he came up to me after the session and whispered, “You’re going to be a portrait artist someday.”

“I remember answering, from your mouth to God’s ears. And I was so elated because that gave me encouragement to keep going with portraits.”

Still, she didn’t feel ready to take on commissioned work until she moved to Bucks County, PA 24 years ago from Westchester County, NY. As her confidence grew, she transitioned

from product design to full-time painting and drawing.

While landscapes may be more popular in this area, she remains committed to portraiture. “People often come up to me and ask, why would you want to hang a portrait of somebody you don’t know?” she said. Her answer is always, “Okay, what would you say to Vermeer?”

She draws inspiration from the old masters, particularly Rembrandt, and American artists John Singer Sargent and Richard Schmid.

Dyan considers herself a contemporary classical artist. “I don’t do photo realism,” she said. Working primarily in oil on linen panels, her portraits can take weeks or even months to complete. She also works in pastel, watercolor and acrylics. Although she prefers painting from life, most of her work is completed using photographs. “People don’t have the time to sit for poses,” she said. Her portraits of children are entirely done from photos.

Her brushwork varies depending on the subject and the mood she wants to depict. In Anthony and his Grandmother, for example, the brush strokes are soft and nearly invisible, conveying warmth and tenderness. The young boy and his grandmother, whom he refers to as “Omie,” are dressed in traditional Indian garments after having attended a festive Indian wedding.

Currently her primary focus is portraiture of dementia patients, a deeply personal mission that began with her mother’s battle with Alzheimer’s disease. In October 2025 she started developing the “I Feel Seen Thru Art Initiative,” a project dedicated to honoring dementia patients and their caregivers.

“The ultimate goal for my painting initiative is to offer a free portrait to the caregiver of their loved one with dementia and ultimately organize an exhibition of the completed paintings to raise dementia awareness.”

Prints of the portraits would also be made available to families and friends,

with proceeds helping to offset production costs.

Dyan said subjects often come to her through word of mouth. Physicians, caregivers and community members have already begun reaching out with requests. “I don’t think I’ll have any problem finding subjects to paint,” she said. “The percentages of patients with dementia are getting greater and greater every year.”

To deepen her knowledge, Dyan attends meetings of Dementia Friendly Doylestown and is active with the Dementia Society of America. She has also connected with authors of an upcoming book on dementia entitled, Led by Love, Guided by Faith, by Sharon Spadaccini and Meri Luarasi Gaumond.

Among the portraits completed for the initiative is Paul, a former advertising director and drummer whom Dyan met through a friend. “He always liked to wear his white shirt,” she said. She intentionally used stronger, more vigorous brushwork to convey his personality and vitality.

Another significant work is her portrait of jazz pianist Junior Mance whom she knew through her father. She presented the painting to him on his 90th birthday during the production of the documentary, Sunset and the Mockingbird. Although Mance was then living with advanced dementia, he reacted emotionally when he saw the portrait.

“He looked at me with, like, ‘That’s me,’” she said. “And he remembered my name, which was amazing to me, you know?”

Dyan grew up with a brother, Ron, in a highly creative household in East Meadow, NY. Their father was a jazz musician and music publisher who played sax clarinet and flute, while their mother was a singer who filled the house with operatic arias each morning.

At age 13, Dyan began working for her father’s publishing business, eventually designing sheet music covers in the company’s art department. That same year, she completed her first commissioned painting—a portrait of a teacher’s

home. By 18, she had her first exhibition in a New York City gallery.

Though she excelled at art, her father initially discouraged her from pursuing a career in it. At home, academics came first, but after finishing homework, Dyan would secretly sketch underneath the covers with a flashlight. “I went to school the next day exhausted from staying up late,” she said. Her parents were called in by the art teacher who was concerned about Dyan being tired all the time. “She told my parents that I was very serious and had some talent.” When Dyan aced the SAT in art, she gained her father’s full support.

Dyan studied at Cornell University in Ithaca, NY before earning both associate and bachelor of fine arts degrees from University of Bridgeport, CT. She also attended Hofstra University in Hempstead, NY, studied at the Art Students League in NYC and later received a scholarship to the Studio Incamminati in Philadelphia, PA.

Following graduation, she taught art

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in New York City schools, including the Bronx and Spanish Harlem. For more than 20 years, she taught art to students of all ages. Her philanthropic bent often influenced her work. As art program director at the Hospital for Joint Diseases in NYC, she taught art to children undergoing cancer treatment. In Spanish Harlem she volunteered to teach English to underprivileged students during her lunch breaks.

“I guess that’s been my calling in a way,” she said, “wherever I see a need to try to fill.”

Dyan began her professional art career as a designer for Lillian Vernon, the mail order catalog launched in 1956. She designed products ranging from scarves and ornaments to children’s books and home décor. She recalled her father being proud of her when he saw people wearing her designs on scarves.

In the 1980’s, she founded Dyan Law Design, Inc. a high-end invitation company whose work earned a prestigious

award from American Greetings.

She later served as head of design for Michael Roger Press in Middlesex, NJ, working with notable entertainment clients including Steven Spielberg. One assignment involved creating promotional replicas of a photo album featured in Spiel-

Following graduation, she taught art in New York City schools, including the Bronx and Spanish Harlem.

berg’s 1999 horror movie, The Haunting

Among her many accomplishments outside the studio, Dyan also earned a black belt in karate and taught martial arts to both children and adults in Westchester County, NY in the late 1980’s.

Today, she and her husband Dennis, a

retired environmental engineer, live in a circa- 1830 home in Pipersville, PA. She has two adult children, Noah, who operates several restaurants, and Loren, who practices law.

“Fortunately at this stage of my life I don’t have to paint to make a living,” Dyan said. Instead, her work is more guided by purpose, and though commissions are important, so is the mission to raise awareness for dementia.

That mission may expand into children’s literature. Dyan is considering writing or illustrating a book to help children better understand dementia and the emotional changes it brings to loved ones.

“How many children are afraid to go into nursing homes to see grandma and grandpa in a different light?” she asked.

Dyan’s artwork is exhibited at Skyview Fine Art Studio Gallery in Pipersville and online at www.dyan law.com.v

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

Cut Flowers

The list of flowers that can be grown in a cutting garden is almost endless, they can be grown almost anywhere and you don’t have to be especially creative to arrange your colorful harvest like a pro

Avase of flowers is a joy. Whether a huge bouquet or one tiny blossom, cut flowers make us happy. It’s true–a few seconds spent contemplating flowers during a busy day will lift your spirits. And that’s something everyone can use.

There’s nothing like cutting and arranging your own vase of flowers. If growing and arranging flowers sounds scary, your worries are over. You don’t have to be especially creative to grow a cutting garden and arrange your colorful harvest like a pro.

Where to grow your cutting garden? That’s easy – anywhere. You can use containers of any sort that suits your space needs or any plot of ground whether in sun or part shade. Just check the light requirements of the plants you choose to grow. You can find that information on the plant tag or seed packet. Make sure your

flowers get good, fertile soil. Mixing in some compost is a great way to amend any soil.

Which flowers are grown specifically for cutting? The list is almost limitless, however there are some flowers that have a longer vase life than others, and some that lend themselves better to cutting than others. Annuals, perennials, everlastings, bulbs, even plants grown only for their leaves can be destined for the vase.

Annuals are flowers that grow, bloom and die in one growing season. Many annuals that are good for cutting can be grown from seed, such as cosmos, larkspur and zinnias. They sprout quickly, they grow easily, and they come in a rainbow of colors–zinnias even come in green.

Perennials are plants that die back each winter and (sometimes) return fresh in the spring. These are best suited to a plot of

ground instead of a container. Reliable, easy-care choices for spring flowers are iris and peonies. Summer blooms like Shasta daisy and purple coneflower are lovely in the vase, and in autumn a vase of chrysanthemums will last a long time.

Everlastings, like statice, baby's breath and globe amaranth are easy to dry and they should last, well, forever. They give an interesting texture and subtle color to dried or fresh arrangements. Statice and baby's breath make lovely, airy fillers for cut flower arrangements. Globe amaranth, has pompom flowers that are lovely in the garden as well as in dried bouquets. Try different sized rows of dried globe amaranth in a square container of floral foam for a unique table accent.

Spring and summer blooming bulbs make great cut flowers. Tulips, daffodils and alliums last a long time in the vase, and cheer us out of the winter blues. Lillies, gladiolas, and dahlias provide unique colors and shapes, whether you choose a single blossom or create a one-of-a-kind floral masterpiece.

Don't limit your bouquets to just flowers. Any arrangement, even a simple store-bought bouquet, can be fleshed out with branches of forsythia, evergreens or even autumn leaves. Ferns, Artemesia (with lovely dusty gray foliage), ivy and ornamental grasses are also perennials and will add grace and texture to both the garden and the vase.

Herbs are also lovely in the cut flower vase, adding color, texture and scent to your arrangements. Try sprigs of mint or basil to add a deep green color or any of the many varieties of sage for a soft texture and silvery color. Many cut flowers like daisies and zinnias that do not have a strong scent, so adding herbs to a bouquet will give it a nice boost of fragrance. Herbs are also easy to grow whether in the ground or in containers.

Let’s not overlook shrubs. Many landscape shrubs have beautiful flowers that are perfect for the vase. Some hydrangeas change color depending on the acidity of the soil they are planted in. Others are

white, or green, and they come in different shapes and sizes. Lilac, azalea and dogwood flowers are also great in the vase. There are some tips for making the best of woody stemmed cut flowers below.

When and how to cut? Theodore James, Jr., author of the comprehensive book “The Cut-Flower Garden,” suggests cutting flowers early in the day when the stems are firm and filled with water. Use sharp shears or a knife to prevent injury to the growing plant. Make your cut at an angle if possible. Bring a pail of room temperature water with you into the garden, and put the cut flowers into the water immediately after cutting to make the stem think it's still attached to the plant.

Here are some practical tips to make your flowers last longer in the vase. When you get your flowers inside, pre-condition them. It doesn’t take long and is well worth it. Cut each stem at a 45 degree angle under water so air is not absorbed into the stem. The angle allows water into the stem while a flat cut will cause the stem to clog

as it rests flat on the bottom of the vase. Remove all leaves that will be below the water line of the vase. Mist the flower heads with cool water. Let the pail of flowers sit for an hour, then check that they have not wilted. If they have, cut them again and wait another hour.

When your flowers have passed the pre-conditioning stage, but before you begin to arrange them in a vase, follow these easy steps to ensure that all your hard work lasts as long as possible. For flowers with woody stems (hydrangeas, lilacs, dogwoods, azaleas, and also chrysanthemums), smash the bottom inch with a hammer, or cut a slit about 1/3 the way up the bottom. Flowers with hollow stems (daffodils, zinnias, Shasta daisies, lupines, dahlias, poppies) need the sap that leaks out the bottom or they will wilt quickly. Prevent leaking by searing the bottom of the stem with a match or candle flame. Remove the small top buds on flowers with spikes (snapdragons, delphiniums, gladiolas) as they will never mature and open.

Cut roses just as the second row of petals begin to unfurl. Cut on an angle above a leaf with at least five leaflets. Remove thorns by running a sharp knife along the stem from bottom to top, then cut a one-inch slit in the bottom of the stem. Bruise the bottom inch of the stem with a hammer to help it absorb water in the vase.

Now the flowers are ready for the vase. Add two drops of bleach and one teaspoon of sugar to each quart of water to keep the flowers fresh and well-fed. Remember that the vase life of each flower will differ. There's no need to throw away an entire arrangement just because some of the flowers are “over the hill.” Remove the spent flowers, then re-cut and recondition the remaining flowers, clean the container, and refill with the water-bleach-sugar solution. Add more fresh flowers if you like, or simply rearrange the remaining flowers.

Your time, effort, inspiration, and creativity will be richly rewarded with the

Becky’s Time Travels

Historian, researcher and author Becky Diamond’s research brings her into 18th & 19th century Philadelphia to write period cookbooks and a new book about where the founders dined

Semiquincentennial doesn’t exactly roll off the tongue, but it’s the party everyone is talking about. Though the country is inching closer to its exact 250th anniversary—or Semiquincentennial— of its Declaration of Independence from England, the festivities have been in full swing since the calendar flipped to 2026 and Philadelphia is its celebratory centerpiece.

Becky Libourel Diamond has always known Philadelphia is special. It’s been at the heart of two of her previous books, and in honor of the yearlong birthday bash, the Yardley resident's fifth outing will take readers inside the City Tavern, the Philadelphia hotspot where the men crafting the country’s future met for dining, drinking and discourse. It’s considered one of the most significant places in the nation’s past in a city that is chock-full of them. “I think people don't realize sometimes how many different pieces go into a puzzle of what's going to happen. The guys would let their guard down in there, have a pint of beer or Ma-

deira, and would hash out things they weren't necessarily saying in the State House,” Becky said of the rooms where it just so happens George Washington first met the Marquis de Lafayette and Alexandar Hamilton had his retirement dinner after leaving his post as secretary of the treasury. “Deals were made, ideas were sparked and the City Tavern was important for that.”

City Tavern: The Founding Table-Colonial Dining, Revolutionary History, and the Restaurant at the Center of It All brings to life the gathering spot that became key to the Colonies’ rebellion and the new nation as well as its ensuing years. Slated for an Oct.15 release, City Tavern is not the first trip back in time for the author, historian, researcher, librarian and book reviewer who has been writing about food and its place in our pasts since 2008. “It's probably my least food-focused book out of the five. Having said that, I do mention food and drink. Luckily, you can get bills people paid to the tavern owner at the time and that actually breaks things down into what they were eating,”

Photos: Paul Wesley

Becky, whose background includes corporate writing and editing, numerous articles, book reviews, essays and blogs, as well as speaking engagements, podcasts, research projects, food demonstrations and book club discussions, said. “To me, it's almost like writing a biography. The tavern's the person and what are the different moments in time that resonate and what makes it significant. I could have written about a number of little things, but I really wanted people to look at it through the lens of liberty, I guess you could say, of what they were trying to do to make America a nation.”

City Tavern is a bit of a departure from Becky’s last two books, 2025’s The Gilded Age Christmas Cookbook: Cookies and Treats from America’s Golden Era and 2023’s The Gilded Age Cookbook: Recipes and Stories from America’s Golden Era. Filled to the brim with recipes tweaked for today’s modern kitchens, both also have details and stories—many holiday themed for the Christmas version—of the colorful era be-

tween 1868 and 1900. Each book is infused with a dash of personal history, too.

“Both actually have some family recipes. We had these great recipes my mom had saved on recipe cards, and they were from my grandmothers and even before that, so I knew they were authentic from the time frame,” Becky, who has been a business librarian at the Rutgers Business School at Rutgers University in New Jersey since 2020, said. “I always say there's so much history you can learn through food—why people ate a certain way, what foods and why — but the thing with food is it's been in my background my whole life because my mother, three of my aunts and my grandmother all went to college for home economics. My aunt and grandmother also got their master's in nutrition, so I grew up with these strong women who really knew how to cook and put things together.”

Becky’s interest in the science of food deepened more so in her 20s, but her love of the written word started much earlier

than that. As a child, she would read stories to her classmates and write little books of her own, but it never crossed her mind to go any further than that. When she headed to Rider University in New Jersey, though, she didn’t stray far from words or language. “I actually started college as a German major, believe it or not, and then I switched to journalism in my sophomore year,” Becky, who graduated from Rider in 1990 with a bachelor’s degree in journalism and then went on to earn a master of library science from Rutgers University-New Brunswick in 1997, said. “I love writing. It wasn't always my goal to write a book, but I always loved that style of writing where you're putting research together—like a research paper was always actually fun to me. That's kind of how it evolved into book writing.”

Her first book, the historical nonfiction Mrs. Goodfellow: The Story of America’s First Cooking School, was published in 2012. Becky reached back to the early 1800s for the story of Elizabeth Goodfellow, a pas-

try chef who ran a sweet shop, catering service and a cooking school—all in Philadelphia. “It's almost like you go down a rabbit hole—one thing leads to another. When I started on ‘Mrs. Goodfellow,’ that's what really kicked it off. I found so much information about Philadelphia history I didn't know—that Philadelphia was the culinary capital at the time and the markets on Market Street were just amazing and all of these things,” Becky, who is president of the Historic Foodways Society of the Delaware Valley that is dedicated to the promotion and understanding of food and its place and contributions to history, said. “You find one little thing that leads you to ‘this could be a really cool book.’”

That thinking lead to The Thousand Dollar Dinner: America’s First Great Cookery Challenge, which focused on Philadelphia restauranteur James W. Parkinson and the sumptuous 17-course feast he created in the 1850s to rival—and show up — the Delmonicos of New York and their fine

dining establishment. Published in 2015, Becky’s second historical nonfiction book captured a delicious moment in time that simultaneously launched the concept of the celebrity chef, today’s gourmet scene and the culinary competitiveness between Philadelphia and New York that many believe lingers to this day. “I would say I'm kind of stuck in the 19th century. It just fascinates me,” said Becky, who has a daughter Cate, 25, and a son Patrick, 22, with husband Joe and shares the family home with three cats, Cinnamon and Nutmeg (“I call them the Spice Girls”) and Mr. Willy.

Becky’s time travel continues with plans to return to the Gilded Age for her next works, which are slated to be about author Edith Wharton’s collection of recipes and a possible third cookbook on the era’s teas. Peering into a past full of culinary innovation and invention, upheavals and firsts, inspires the researcher in Becky to forever dive deeper down that rabbit hole so the writer in her can share the un-

told stories she finds. “I always think if I didn't know something or I think it's interesting, hopefully other people will and that's what I like to write about,” Becky Libourel Diamond said. “There's so much about history that we can learn through food. I really want to continue celebrating that connection and learning more about it and highlighting the past and how we can learn from that going forward.”

For more information about Becky Libourel Diamond, visit www.beckyldia mond.com. Her books are available at Commonplace Reader in Yardley, Newtown Bookshop, The Doylestown Bookshop, Farley’s Bookshop in New Hope, Amazon, Barnes & Noble and various other outlets. City Tavern: The Founding Table-Colonial Dining, Revolutionary History, and the Restaurant at the Center of It All may be ordered in advance of its Oct. 15 release at the above outlets.v

Cynthia Marone is a freelance writer who lives in Philadelphia.

Defining refined living through custom homes, architectural renovations, and handcrafted cabinetry for nearly 50 years.

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

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!

Blind Fox Vineyard

Planned for a fall 2026 opening, Blind Fox Vineyard is a 72acre family estate dedicated to local agriculture, community, and fine wine. We celebrate our vineyard’s storied past and embrace a future rooted in sustainably farmed, terroir-driven wines that reflect the true potential of our region. Learn more: https://blindfoxvineyard.com.

Buckingham 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!

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

Wine Tasting Guide

COME AND RELAX!

Open daily, year-round. Spend the day at Bishop Estate Vineyard and Winery-a fun, relaxing destination filled with great wine, live music, and scenic countryside charm.Enjoy a glass or bottle of wine, beer on tap, wine slushies, wine cocktails, or a memorable wine tasting experience.Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, guests can enjoy rotating food trucks and live music.Bring a lawn chair and settle on the lawn in nice weather or enjoy the beautifully restored historic barn tasting room.Choose from 25 wines, something for every palate- from dry reds and crisp whites to sweet and fruity wines.Two unique favorites are the Whiskey Barrel aged Cabernet Sauvignon, or the Bee Sting, a dry honey wine infused with jalapeno. Visit BishopEstatePa.com to view all events and music and food truck schedules. Pet and family friendly.

2730 Hilltown Pike Perkasie Pa 18944

BishopEstatePa.com (215) 249-3559

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.

Manoff Market Cidery

The Manoff family began producing hard cider from fruit grown at their Bucks County orchard in 2018. The cidery 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 is the definition of rustic elegance. From award-winning American fruit wines to fully customizable event spaces, Rose Bank Winery is the place for memories to be made and cherished for years to come. To learn more, visit www.rosebankwinery.com.

Surrounded by layers of quarried stone, the entrance to the backyard pops with shades of pink and lavender. Inset above, Nancy Gracia standing at the front door of the 1900 portion of her historic home. Opposite, a view of the exterior of the historic Milnor House.

Photo: Brittany Breen

At The Bare Root

Interior Designer Nancy Gracia renovated the historic John Milnor House on S. Sycamore Street in Newtown into a historically sensitive home and studio for the Bare Root Design Studio Inc.

WRITEN BY BETH S. BUXBAUM | PHOTOGRAPHY OSCAR MIKOLS, OM MEDIA, LLC

An unexpected life change led Nancy Gracia to a new home and a new career.Nancy had to make difficult decisions to re-establish herself. “A shift in life circumstances propelled me into a new career,” she explains. Nancy enrolled in the NY School of Interior Design at the age of 40. Simultaneously, she began looking for a new home, with a manageable commute to New York City.

Before moving to Newtown, Nancy lived in Upper Makefield and frequently drove through Newtown. “I have driven down Sycamore Street countless times,” Nancy says. One day, she noticed

a “For Sale” sign on an old building on the street in Newtown. “It looked drab and lifeless,” she adds. Even with its dilapidated appearance, Nancy was curious. “The back door was opened, so I peeked inside,” she describes, “and it was the biggest disaster.” From the moment that Nancy saw the property, she was convinced it was just what she was looking for. “I knew this was my home. I felt something calling me; it was meant to be.” Abandoned for three years, the house was in terrible condition.

“It was basically ransacked,” she says. “People stripped the copper and other metal fixtures. The interior was overgrown with weeds, ivy was growing through the windows, the sheet rock ceiling was cav-

Newly renovated in 2019, the kitchen upgrades include a center island in forest green topped with Calacatta Nabucco marble. Quartersawn white oak inset cabinets flank the cooking area accented with classic marble subway tile. All is pulled together with white-and-red oak antique flooring.

ing in, and there were signs of animal habitation.”

Undeterred by the house’s initial appearance, Nancy bought the neglected old house on Sycamore Street, which happened to be the historic Milnor House. Built by John Milnor in 1800, a stone mason who operated a quarry on site. Built on lots #30 and #1 of the town commons, the house was constructed of stone that Milnor sourced from the nearby Newtown Creek. The home, which sits in a historically significant area near the creek once known as King Street (now Centre Avenue), is recognized within the Newtown Historic Association records for its well-preserved, historic charm. “I absolutely love this little home because it speaks to the humble nature of how it was built and the mason’s hands who built it,” she explains.

With her love for old homes comes the possibility of unseen structural damage. Nancy points out that there were major challenges in transforming this centuriesold building into her home. Until she moved in, she was unaware of many of the structural challenges. Even considering the immensity of this project, Nancy moved forward with her plans. Her initial goal was to make the house habitable. “I rented a dumpster to clean up the mess in the house.” Pipes had burst, and there was water everywhere, as well as a mud-filled basement. “The first thing I bought for the house was a plunger; it was my house-warming present.” Nancy made the necessary repairs to create a livable, functional living space.

Opposite left, a view of the left side of the kitchen showcases antique radiators selected to replace old metal baseboard heaters. In the back corner is a full view of the forest green cupboard with white oak accent drawers and an antique chair.Opposite bottom right, a corner shot of the Calacatta Nabucco marble displays the mitered effect to create a 2.5” thick top. Above, in the forefront of the breakfast nook, just off the kitchen, is a unique grain-painted antique gateleg table. Atop the white cabinets is Pietra Cardosa marble quarried in Italy. Walls are dressed with a salmon-toned floral wall cover. Bottom, the breakfast nook’s seating area’s grain-painted gateleg table is flanked by two grain-painted upholstered chairs in custom textile.

In the family room, part of the hemlock timber-framed addition, there is a mixture of furniture pieces. This sunny space has a woodsy feel with exposed hemlock ceiling, which is the floor of the loft above. The fireplace surround is a mixture of PA fieldstone and blue and grey argillite. Embellishing the right wall is a unique decorative-painted antique chest from a local auction. A tiny corner of the spiral staircase is visible on the left.

Delaying any major renovations, her priority was to clean up the house from all the destruction and neglect. Once that phase was complete, Nancy made essential repairs so she could move in. Her first order of business was to install electricity and plumbing. “I needed a place to eat because there was no kitchen,” she explains. “I designed a functional kitchen to get me up and running,” she adds, “to make the house livable.” She used a lot of color and added one special item, La Cornue stove. “I actually wanted to be a kitchen designer,” she notes. After creating the kitchen, Nancy focused on the first-floor restoration. Overwhelmed by the magnitude of the restoration, she forged on little by little. “There were so many days when I went to bed crying myself to sleep,” Nancy admits, “wondering what I had gotten myself into. I knew I went into this project half-blind.” Acknowledging that this was a multiyear project, Nancy slowly tackled one project at a time, considering her time and financial resources. All of her major renovation ideas were put on the back burner until she re-established her historic home.

Restoring a centuries-old property is a monumental task. “I did not know much about historic renovation,” Nancy explains. “As I went along, I winged it,” she admits, “while not wanting to disturb the historical elements of the property.” As the caretaker of this historic house, Nancy initially worked with the current footprint. With each renovation, she moved forward toward her ultimate vision. Nancy planned to create a multipurpose dwelling that served as both her residence and a residential interior design business space. “I was envisioning

Opposite, a close-up of the family room reveals a custom-designed chaise with 40 yards of lustrous strié silk brush fringe and velvet bias cording. A custom mohair ottoman complements the chaise. Top, above the fireplace in the original parlor, currently the dining room, is a painting from a local auction, antique fireplace andirons. Bottom, in the dining room is a dining table with a White Namib marble table top.

Top, part of the renovation in 2017-2018 is this expansive primary bath. Repurposed kitchen cabinets were transformed into a vanity sink topped with Calacatta Viola marble. A self-standing tub is on a statuary marble floor, and is embellished with an arrangement of mirrors. Bottom, in the entryway, on an auction-find table, is a collection of antique Indian splint baskets. Looking beyond on the right is a view into the timber-framed addition with the spiral stairs. Opposite top, filled with auction finds and antiques, the primary bedroom’s focal point is the tiger maple bed. Opposite bottom, finished with antique white oak herringbone floor, from a church in Villanova, the entry mudroom is decorated with a grain-painted table and an antique chair.

starting a business here, but I knew I had a long road.”

The original 1800 home had only two rooms on the first floor, the kitchen and an all-purpose room or parlor. There was one bedroom on the second floor. In its early years, there were two major expansions to the original 1800 stone house. In 1900 a clapboard addition added a first-floor parlor and kitchen, a lower-level basement, two upstairs bedrooms, a garden room converted from a side porch and a historic brick carriage house. In 1954 the house had a major facelift, according to Nancy. “Raymond Hennessy, the founder of the Newtown Historical Society, owned the property and expanded the living space,” Nancy explains. Hennessy started the Christmas house tours in Newtown, and this was the first house on the tour. This 1954 restoration involved a kitchen renovation combining the original butler's pantry and kitchen, while preserving original cabinets. There were no more renovations until Nancy took possession of the property.

From 2009 through 2012 Nancy slowly rejuvenated the property. In 2012, Nancy graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the New York School of Interior Design. That same year, she hired Riehl’s Construction, Amish contractors from Lancaster, to build a hemlock timber-framed addition to her home. “I hired an architect who did the drawings. I was the general contractor and I hand-picked the tradesmen. “Moving into Milnor House was a big change for me, coming from a large home in Upper Makefield to a small dwelling where nothing would fit other than a Big Dream,” she adds.

As she began visualizing the renovations, she realized she needed more living space. “I needed more room to breathe,” she continues. This two-story structure, accented with a vaulted ceiling, included a family room with a fireplace and a spiral staircase to a loft, three bedrooms, two half-baths, a full bath, a

mud room entry, a powder room and much-needed closet and storage space. “This timber-frame addition doubled the size of the house and brought the floor plan into the 21st century.” Refinishing the basement created a workspace for her business, Bare Root Design Studio. Now, Nancy had room to breathe. But her vision was not complete. Always a work in progress, Nancy continued to re-master and upgrade her living space.

A major cosmetic renovation took place in 2017 and 2018. Transformations included installing larger windows in the parlor, redoing the floors and ceiling, and adding new lighting. Nancy also reworked the bedroom, raising the ceiling and converting part of the deck to a

breakfast nook on the first floor. “I used local craftspeople whenever I could, including plaster application, woodworking, upholstery, decorative painters, and stone masons.” A key element she incorporated into this renovation was natural materials, including plaster, hand-picked quarry stone, antique wood, silk, Calacatta marble, linen and mohair. A lot of the materials used to renovate the house were from Nancy’s business, Bare Root Design Studio, Inc.

In 2019, Nancy renovated the 2010 kitchen, accenting the space with forest green and off-white cabinetry, white marble countertops and backsplashes of

classic marble subway tiles. Nancy capped off the transformation with new appliances, including a high-tech coffee maker and steam oven, and the La Cornue stove remained. “I made changes I could live with for the next 20 to 30 years.”

What inspires her visual concepts?

“As an interior designer, I want to be at the bare root.” This concept, the namesake of her business, reflects her appreciation for natural materials and nature. “I enjoy just working with the essentials,” Nancy explains. When meeting with clients, one of her first questions would be how does the living space function? “My approach to design is psychological, discussing with my clients

what affects them in their space,” she explains. “I’m a creative thinker and my brain is constantly shifting from one visual to another. That’s why my job is so rewarding because I get to have those visuals come to life for other people,”

Connecting with her clients on a more personal level works for Nancy and her clients. Another focus for Nancy is the connection between indoors and outdoors. For instance, she describes why she opened up the back of the house, where the 1800 parlor sits. “The parlor’s ceilings are barely 7 feet tall and you would never notice because the plaster dances off the ceiling with the sun. This was the ultimate reason for

opening up the back of the house, to allow natural light to come in and play with the plaster. I also love bringing in the stone from the outside.”

Bringing the outside in is one of Nancy’s design concepts, which she does mostly by adding larger windows and opening up the living space. Exterior elements are also adapted in her interior palettes to reflect the landscape. “I use a lot of blues, greens, browns, and rusts,” she says. She furnishes this home with warm-toned wood furniture, wood trims, and white and red oak flooring. Nancy’s artistic appreciation is showcased in several of the unique pieces interspersed throughout the living space. A fauxpainted antique chest accents the great room, a grain-painted antique gateleg table with a swirl of earth tones sits in the new breakfast room, and another grain-painted drop-leaf table is in the entryway. A mix of antique and modern art pieces is on display, meticulously placed for optimum viewing.

Beyond the interior living space, the property overflows with a multi-leveled back landscape. From the front, the expanse of the house and backyard is deceiving. Sitting next to the Creek, the house’s terraced backyard has many levels of outdoor space to landscape and enjoy. Surrounded by layers of quarried stone, the backyard pops with shades of pink and lavender. Waterfalls, statuaries, and flowering trees fill the landscape with several vignettes to admire. On a summer evening, you can find Nancy relaxing in her outdoor space, relishing all that she has created, while appreciating her newly expanded historic home with plenty of room to breathe.

Bare Root Design Studio Inc. is located on South Sycamore Street, Newtown, PA. To make an appointment with Nancy, call 267-746-1059 or visit www.barerootdesign.com. v

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

War in the Peaceable Kingdom

Throughout the War for Independence Washington and the Continental army stayed several times in Bucks County after the Battle of Trenton, and Bucks County became a dangerous and violent place.

BY JEFFREY MARSHALL

Bucks County was in the cross-hairs of the Revolution. There were active military actions, partisan fighting and political upheaval. No look at Bucks County during the Revolution can avoid discussing General Washington’s travels and stays through the county. On December 8, 1776 General Washington and the army abandoned Trenton and crossed the Delaware River. He then made his headquarters at Summerseat in the current town of Morrisville. For the next three weeks Washington’s troops were spread along the River from Dunks’ Ferry below Bristol to New Hope to try to prevent the British from taking Philadelphia. His troops were located so as not to be trapped in the elbow of the river in Falls Township.

General Philemon Dickinson was ordered to construct a redoubt to guard the Yardley Ferry and General James Ewing was ordered to guard the area from Yardley to the Trenton Ferry at Morrisville. On December 14th Washington moved his headquarters to Upper Makefield and his supply headquarters to Newtown. His headquarters was at the Keith House, Upper Makefield. Generals Greene and Sullivan occupied houses nearby. On the north side of Jericho Mountain Colonel Henry Knox made his headquarters at the Chapman House. He was in command of the continental artillery. Artillery captain Alexander Hamilton served with Knox and stayed in the house as well.

Washington moved his headquarters over the next two weeks as he reviewed his troop locations. There are several vague references such as a letter written on December 23 from his “Camp above Trenton Falls” This was in preparation for his famous crossing of the Delaware in his bold stroke against Hessian troops at Trenton. In his letter to Col. John Cadwalader who guarded the river at Bristol, Washington warned “For Heaven's sake keep this to yourself, as the discovery of it may prove fatal to us.”

Historic Summerseat in Morrisville, PA served as Washington’s Headquarters December 8-14, 1776.

Top, the exterior of the Moland house that was built in 1750 by Englishman and lawyer John Moland., Bottom left, this is the room that Washington held a council of war with his general staff on August 21, 1777. Bottom right, Susan McLellan Plaisted getting ready to prepare candied clove gilliflowers .

In 1777, Washington and his troops marched through Bucks County for a second time. He was uncertain where the British would strike next and wanted to have his army at a location from which he could react to their impending move. During the last week of July, 1777, Washington crossed the Delaware at Coryell's Ferry, now New Hope.

While generally not involved in the famous crossing, the Bucks County militia was called out to march to Philadelphia to help defend the city while others, including General Ewing with the Flying Camp were ordered to guard every suspicious part of the river and to afford assistance in case of attack. However, the majority of Bucks County residents did not actively support General Washington. Washington wrote to the Pennsylvania Council of Safety from Bucks County on December 15th, stating “The Spirit of Disaffection that appears in this County, deserves your serious attention. Instead of giving any assistance in repelling the enemy, the Militia have not only refused to obey your general Summons and that of their commanding Officers, but I am told exult at the Approach of the Enemy and our late Misfortunes.”

After the victory at Trenton, from December 27 through the 29th, Washington was at Newtown and used the house of widow Harris located along the current Sycamore Street as his headquarters. On the latter date, Washington wrote to the President of Congress that “I am just setting out to attempt a second passage over the Delaware”. The Harris house was torn down in 1863 and the Keith house burned in the 1980s.

In 1777, Washington and his troops marched through Bucks County for a second time. He was uncertain where the British would strike next and wanted to have his army at a location from which he could react to their impending move. During the last week of July, 1777, Washington crossed the Delaware at Coryell's Ferry, now New Hope. General Stephen crossed at Howell's Ferry, now Centre Bridge and Stockton, three miles above, and Lord Stirling at Trenton. He waited in Bucks County to hear about British movements. On July 31st, he learned that the British navy had been spotted at the Delaware Bay. The American army marched for Philadelphia.

After inspecting fortifications along the Delaware River at Philadelphia, Washington was still not sure where the British would strike and had his army marched back into Bucks County. From August 10 through August 23, Washington was at the “Neshaminy Camp” while Washington himself stayed at

the Moland House in Warwick Township. We know this because Washington’s journal includes a receipt dated August 23 for expenses paid to Mrs. Moland – £5.5.0. Joining Washington were the Marquis de Lafayette and Count Casimir Pulaski of Poland, who volunteered to join the American army.

We next find the Continental army in Bucks county in June, 1778. After a six months' encampment at Valley Forge Washington put it in march the 18th of June, to intercept the British in their retreat through New Jersey after their evacuation of Philadelphia. Washington spent the night of the 20th at Doylestown, with the main body of his army and the next afternoon marched for Coryell's ferry on his way to the Battle of Monmouth on June 28, 1778. Accounts indicate that the army included 207 vehicles, 876 draft animals, 32 cannons and 10,000 soldiers. The June ferry crossing took three days.

Washington’s third stay in Bucks County was in mid-1778. On June 20, 1778 he was in the Doylestown vicinity (the borough and township of Doylestown were not yet created), writing “I am now with the main body of the army within ten miles of Coryell's Ferry. The next day he wrote “At Doylestown. The whole army is advancing to the Delaware. We have been much impeded by rain. The troops with General Lee crossed the river last night.” Washington did not stay in a house during this encampment, he pitched his tent near the dwelling of Jonathan Fell, just east of the village of Doylestown.

General Davis’s History of Bucks County relates that while Washington was at Fell’s, the army occupied three encampments: one on the south side of State street, west of Main, one on the ridge east of the Presbyterian church, and along the New Hope pike east of the borough mill. General Lafayette was quartered at the house of Thomas Jones, New Britain, whose best bed was a little too short for the tall young Frenchman. The army was accompanied by some warriors of the Seneca, Oneidas and Tuscarora nations.

The local population felt the effects of the war beyond

Top, In December 1776, the stone farmhouse known as London Purchase Farm served as headquarters for General Henry Knox and Captain Alexander Hamilton just before the Continental Army's crossing of the Delaware River. Bottom left, in the original 1734 room, the tavern room, with all the original wood beams and floor, is complete with a caged bar in one corner and a staircase to the original second floor on the left. Bottom right, a view of the original 1734 room from the caged bar and staircase, shows the sitting area and huge walk-in fireplace adorned with a series of antique bellows from the 1800s. Opposite,The Bird-in-Hand in Newtown, PA, is considered the oldest frame structure still standing in Pennsylvania, with records dating to 1686. Originally a tavern, it served as a Revolutionary War jail for Hessian officers in 1776 and a site for a 1778 Loyalist raid.

providing shelter and sustenance for American army. Local patriots formed militia companies referred to as Associators. One important site in the county was Bogart’s Tavern in the village of Buckingham. The tavern was later known as Bennet’s Tavern and is currently known as the General Greene Inn. There are accounts of militia camps at Bogart’s Tavern January 25, 1776, a meeting of the patriot Committee of Inspection on May 22, 1776.

According to records, Bogart’s Tavern housed wounded soldiers. In August 1776 John Bogart was reimbursed for the expenses of burying a soldier of Captain Harman’s company, and for maintenance and nursing of him, and one other soldier, belonging to Captain Willett’s company, both of the 1st Pennsylvania battalion.

Augustine Willett raised a company of troops at his own expense and served under Benedict Arnold during the expedition to Quebec in 1775. He crossed the Delaware River with Washington to attack the Hessians at Trenton the following year. His cousin, Walter Willett, who had been a lieutenant of the Southampton Township Associators in 1775 went over to the British and became a lieutenant in the Bucks County Light

Dragoons; one of two Loyalist militia troops raised in the county. Another cousin, Samuel Willett, also served in a cavalry regiment on the side of the British. Both Walter and Samuel had to move to Nova Scotia after the war.

The Declaration of Independence paved the way for changes in the internal government of the colonies and counties as well. In Bucks County, radicals in favor of the revolution pushed loyalists and moderates out of their way. Duly elected bodies were superseded in authority by radical committees.

Not all Bucks County resident were patriots. A week after the Declaration of Independence, on July 10, 1776, Committee of Safety resolved to collect firearms of non-Associators and assess a tax upon Non-Associators as an equivalent for joining the revolution. Troops met at other locations such as at the Four Lanes Ends (now Langhorne). On December 31, 1776 American soldiers took possession of the Quaker Meetinghouse in Middletown and appropriated it as a hospital to the objection of the Friends. Archaeological excavation performed in 1992 revealed that 166 American soldiers were interred on a site located at the corner of Flowers and South Bellevue Avenues.

A case in point occurred on October 1, 1776. Despite the signing of the Declaration of Independence the previous July,

Top,The Court Inn (known as the Half-moon Inn during the mid 18th century) is one of the oldest and most historic buildings in Newtown. It was the original home of Margaret and Joseph Thornton and was a popular gathering place when Newtown was the County Seat. Center, Bogart's Tavern, now called the General Greene Inn, is a historic 1763 structure at the intersection of Routes 263 and 413 in Buckingham, PA. Bottom, John Lacey Homestead is located at Wycombe, Buckingham Township, Bucks County, Pennsylvania. It was built in six sections over 200 years and it dates to 1755.

local county elections were to be held on that day. Loyalists who had little to do with the revolution had a slate of candidates and were determined to carry on with their traditional election. Patriots mobilized the militia and marched on Newtown, the county seat. Three companies of troops under the command of Major James McMasters and Captains John Jameson and Thomas Wier went to Newtown to suppress the election and disperse the crowd.

Magistrate Gilbert Hicks of Langhorne had to flee after as high sheriff of the county in 1776 because he proclaimed the opening of court in the name of the king. Wisely staying at home on the first day of the session, he was warned by other loyalist sympathizers. He was reportedly hidden in a neighbor’s attic until he could be spirited away. He escaped to Nova Scotia where he was given a gift of land and annual pension. In an entry dated 1776, October 3d, Henry Tomlinson of Bensalem noted in his diary “The Rebels after Gilbert Hicks.” His house in Langhorne was confiscated and sold in 1780.

Bucks County's most famous Loyalist was one of the county’s premier politicians Joseph Galloway. Galloway served as a member of the Pennsylvania Assembly, Provincial Council and as Chief Justice of Pennsylvania. In 1777 Lord Howe appointed Joseph Galloway civil commissioner of Philadelphia while the British occupied the city His Growden Mansion property (actually the property of his wife Grace’s family) in Bensalem was seized. Her wartime diary, kept in Philadelphia from 1778 until 1781, reveals how the absence of male family members and the hardships of military conflict transformed women's daily lives. For Galloway, American independence meant poverty, abandonment, loss of social precedence, and the devastating disappearance of the prewar world she had known. She eventually fought to have her properties returned.

The Revolutionary War period brought a tremendous amount of upheaval to Bucks County. Our impressions of peaceful, tranquil Bucks County certainly are not accurate. Not only were troops moving through the county on the way to Philadelphia, New York and Trenton on a regular basis but they is also raiding by American, British and Loyalists. The Doan outlaws were the most famous, or infamous, group of civilian raiders. These outlaws, led by Moses Doan, his brothers, and cousins, raided the homes of tax collectors and other patriots. The outlaws' most notorious deed was the robbery of the

Not only were troops moving through the county on the way to Philadelphia, New York and Trenton on a regular basis but there is also raiding by American, British and Loyalists. The Doan outlaws were the most famous, or infamous, group of civilian raiders. These outlaws, led by Moses Doan, his brothers, and cousins, raided the homes of tax collectors and other patriots. The outlaws' most notorious deed was the robbery of the Newtown Treasury on the night of October 22, 1781.

Newtown Treasury on the night of October 22, 1781.

On January 13, 1778, the British entered Moreland, Byberry and Bensalem taking at least two prisoners. Between February 18th and 20th, 1778, about forty British Light Dragoons under the command of Newtown’s Richard Hovenden marched towards his former home. Using his knowledge of the area, Hovenden advanced to Jenk’s fulling mill in Middletown where his troops captured two thousand yards of cloth needed by the American army, and on to the current Bird In Hand Tavern in Newtown where in a skirmish they wounded nine men and captured Major Francis Murray and about 30 soldiers.

On May 1, 1778 General Lacey’s militia was attacked by British regulars and Philadelphia Loyalists in what became known as the Battle of Crooked Billet. The battle took place around the Crooked Billet tavern in Hatboro, Montgomery County. The Americans fled. Thirty patriots were killed or wounded and fifty eight were taken prisoner. After the British withdrew, Lacey returned to bury his dead in a mass grave at what is now known as Lacey Park, or Warminster Heights.

General Lacey was related to the prominent Chapman family of Wrightstown Township. The Chapmans were among the township’s earliest settlers and largest landowners. Lacey notes in his writings that his uncles tried to convince him to join the British Army.

The Muster roll of the Philadelphia LightDragoons dated January 10, 1778 notes Samuel Chapman was commissioned as a Lieutenant on November 7, 1777. Abraham Chapman and Amos Chapman served as volunteers. They and David Chapman, all of Wrightstown were “attainted of treason” meaning they lost their civil and political rights, and had their lands forfeited.

In early May of 1778, a British raiding party sailed up the

Delaware River and attacked the home of County Lieutenant Joseph Kirkbride. In a May 15, 1778 letter to the Governor, Kirkbride reported the enemy had burned “two Valuable Dwelling Houses with all my Out Houses of Every kind & sort, & a great deal of Furniture, Utensils, Corn, Hay &c. & Intirely Dislodging my Family”

Plundering and robbery got so bad that patriot leaders wrote the following petition requesting a bounty placed on the heads of many Loyalist raiders. A petition was sent to the Supreme Executive Council of Pennsylvania on June 25, 1778 stating “that whereas the Lower part of this County is greatly infested by a set of Traiterous Robbers who being supported and encouraged by the common enemy in Philadelphia make frequent excursions into the Country where they are secreted, aided, and abetted by disaffected Inhabitants, and commit most notorious robberies by pillaging houses and stealing Cattle and Horses”. The petition specifically named seven men.

While the phrase "Brother against brother" is most commonly associated with the American Civil War, but the same predicament faced families in Bucks County where loyalties and military service within families or neighbors were divided between the Revolutionaries and Loyalists. There are a number of stories of neighbors fighting on opposite sides or committing depredations against each other. Bucks County during 1776 and the years following was a much more unsettled, dangerous and violent place to be than most people today imagine.

Jeffrey Marshall is a noted regional historian and past director of the Heritage Conservancy, spending four decades there, he helped elevate the Conservancy’s nationally recognized status as a premier conservator.

1776 - 2026

Bucks County and surrounding areas are celebrating America’s 250th Anniversary of American independence with parades, lectures, reenactments and many special events listed in this Guide

LET’S CELEBRATE AMERICA’S 250TH!

By Mary Beth Schwartz

ON JULY 4, 1776, PINTS OF ALE AND HUZZAHS! were mostly enjoyed by the signers of the Declaration of Independence. The first public readings were at noon on July 8 in Easton and Philadelphia in Pennsylvania, and Trenton, New Jersey. As the news spread via couriers on horseback, which took about a month, the musket fire, shooting cannons, ringing church bells, bonfires, and parades spread across the Colonies, along with the occasional mock funeral for King George III. In New York, his statue was pulled down, beheaded, and melted into ammunition for the Continental Army.

The annual tradition of fireworks did not take off until the official anniversary on July 4, 1777. All celebrations were centered around the number 13 for the number of Colonies. Ships in the river were decorated with bright streamers, troops performed drills, and the Colonists lit up towns with candles in their windows. There were official dinners, parades, and lots of music. In 1778, General George Washington would mark the holiday by giving his soldiers double rations of rum to boost morale.

Now fast forward with me in time to July 4, 1976, the year of the Bicentennial. In Philadelphia, one million people gathered to celebrate the 200th anniversary of American independence. President Gerald Ford spoke at Independence Hall. Queen Elizabeth II presented a gift from Great Britain, The

Bicentennial Bell, which was cast by the same London foundry that made the Liberty Bell. The Centennial Bell, created to mark 100 years of independence, rang 13 times. It hangs in the steeple of Independence Hall. The bell was cast using four melted cannons: the British and American from the Revolutionary Way, and the Union and Confederate from the Civil War. Dozens of tall ships appeared on the Delaware River. There was a massive parade that lasted more than five hours.

Back in Trenton, New Jersey, I was watching the festivities unfold on the television. Normally our local parade on the Fourth of July would include kids on decorated bikes, marching bands, floats, firetrucks, and the Shriners in their miniature cars. Lots of candy thrown to scrambling kids. We had a great cookout that year, and I remember the spectacular firework display in Washington Crossing.

That little kid in Trenton is now a mom to a family of her own. For our 250, my goal is to provide a guide to celebrating America 1776 style for all families to enjoy. You will find historic events for Bucks County and its countryside, New Jersey’s Hunterdon County and Mercer County, as well as national activities courtesy of America250. So, grab your tricornered hat—let’s celebrate our Stars and Stripes.

BUCKS COUNTY AND COUNTRYSIDE

Andalusia Historic House, Garden, and Arboretum

Through November 13: Radical Americana: Sophie Glenn & Jody Graff

Through November 13: Revolutionary Family: The Biddles & American Independence 1237 State Road, Andalusia, PA. www.andalusiapa.org

America Celebrates 250th Celebration

July 3: Day 1 includes reenactors and educational events. Events start at 1 p.m. The day concludes at 9:30 p.m. with a fireworks and air drone show with patriotic music. July 4: Day 2 includes a pub crawl, reenactors, and live music. Events start at 2 p.m.

July 5: Day 3. Freedom parade, bell ringing, a Dragon Boat race with Patriots, color guard ceremonies, a reading of the Declaration of Independence, and singers from the Bucks County Playhouse and Music Mountain performing God Bless America. 10 a.m.-12 p.m. New Hope, PA and Lambertville, NJ. www.americacelebrates.org

Annual Tri-Municipal Fourth of July Parade

July 4: 9:30-11 a.m. Deck out your floats, bikes, strollers, or sneakers in red, white, and blue and help us fill the streets with energy, patriotic pride, and community fun.

New Britain Township, PA. www.chalfontborough.com

Bristol Cultural & Historical Foundation

June 28: Community Band Concert

August 16: Peach Social

October 17: 50th Annual Historic Bristol Day featuring historic house tours, artisan vendors, live entertainment, and much more. Honoring the founding of Bristol in 1681. Bristol, PA. www.bristolhistory.org

Byers Choice

To commemorate America’s 250, Byers Choice presents its commemorative collection, including a Revolutionary Drummer, Revolutionary Patriot, and Lady Liberty figurines. They have brought back customer favorites such as Betsy Ross and Uncle Sam. A recent special release included John Adams and a Declaration of Independence Signing Table. Collectors are encouraged to stay tuned for at least three more commemorative product releases to be unveiled throughout 2026. 4355 County Line Road, Chalfont, PA. www.byerschoice.com

Craven Hall Historic Site

October 17: Annual Crooked Billet 5K. This

fundraiser supports Craven Hall and Craven Hall and the John Fitch Steamboat Museum. Newtown and Street Roads, Warminster, PA. www.craven-hall.org

Doylestown Historical Society

Ongoing: Walking Tours

Through December 2026: Early Doylestown Guided Tour

Through December 2026: Meet and Greet Lectures

Through December 2026: Story and Book

Reading

Through December 2026: Town Crier Reenactments

July 2: Celebrate July Fourth with holiday fun and music from the Central Bucks Community Band. Doylestown, PA. www.doylestownhistorical.org

Easton Heritage Day

July 11: Featuring a full day of historical and cultural programming, Heritage Day plans to ring in the 250th anniversary with its most ambitious slate of programming yet. There will be dozens of historical partners and reenactors to create a lively and immersive experience meant to inform people of all ages of how impactful the city and region have been to America. Anchored by a theatrical performance that concludes with a reenactment of the reading of the Declaration of Independence at noon in Centre Square, history truly comes alive on Heritage Day. And for many Eastonians, they’ll appreciate that the Easton’s Farmers’ Market returns (for one weekend) to Centre Square, its original location when it began in 1752. Easton, PA www.heritageday.org.

Fonthill Castle

July 4: Fourth of July event includes crafts, a children’s bike parade, wheelbarrow and sack races, live music, and lots of family-friendly fun. 12-4 p.m. Court Street and Route 313, Doylestown, PA.

www.mercermuseum.org/visit/fonthill-castle

Gather Place Museum

June-August: America’s 250th Anniversary Summer 2026 Programs

June-August: The Underground Railroad— Bucks County & Beyond

188 South Canal Street, Yardley, PA. www.gatherplace.org

Historic Fallsington Day

October 10: This annual community event includes tours of the museum buildings, historical demonstrations, live music, crafts, a book sale, food, and participation from local vendors. 4 Yardley Avenue, Fallsington, PA.

www.historicfallsington.org

Top, Shirley Lee Corsey at Gather Place Musuem, Yardley, PA. Bottom, New Jersey State Museum The Power of Change Reception.

America Celebrates it’s 250th Anniversary

Historic Langhorne Association

Ongoing: Walking Tours

June 13: Strawberry Festival

October 26: The Revolutionary War Burial Site in Langhorne. Soldiers from the First and Second Battles of Trenton and the Battle of Princeton were buried here between December 1776 and May 1777. For generations, the site’s history survived only through local stories, until a 1992 archaeological excavation confirmed the legend, uncovering the remains of 166 American soldiers. Military historian Michael Jesberger shares the remarkable story of this rediscovery. 160 West Maple Avenue, Langhorne, PA. www.historiclanghorne.org

Mercer Museum

Through December 31: The Doan Gang: Outlaws of the Revolution 84 South Pine Street, Doylestown, PA. www.mercermuseum.org

Michener Museum

June 27-January 10: The Crossing: Picturing the American Revolution

September 5-February 28: Abstractions of Nature: Quarries and Industry in Pennsylvania Impressionism

138 South Pine Street, Doylestown, PA. www.michenerartmuseum.org

Moravian Pottery and Tile Works

The Tile Works will be featuring tiles and mosaic images that include the America 250 theme. There is a Washington crossing tile, a circular butter mold, and a Washington Crossing brocade, which features Washington in the boat. If you plan on touring the Tile Works, there will be large patriotic mosaic murals on display throughout 2026. 130 East Swamp Road, Doylestown, PA. www.thetileworks.org

Newtown Historic Association

August 8: Newtown Celebrates 250. An actionpacked day of exciting and educational events throughout Newtown. The day will include a Revolutionary-era skirmish outside the Bird in Hand, an Edward Hicks reenactor at Newtown Friends Meeting House, a Civil War band at the Newtown Theatre, a reenactment of the Doan Gang’s robbery of the Bucks County Treasury, historical displays at the Half-Moon Inn, antique firetrucks and equipment at the Newtown Fire House Museum, lobby exhibits at the First National Bank & Trust Company, Hessian prisoners and graveyard tours at the Old Presbyterian

Church, and more. 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

September 21: The Life and Times of Captain Daniel Bray: From Waterman to Militia (1741 to 1840) presented by Daniel McAuliffe

October 3: Historic Newtown Market Day

October 22: The Newtown Treasury presented by Matt Bielicki

Half-Moon Inn, 105 Court Street, Newtown, PA. www.newtownhistoric.org

Peddler’s Village

July 4: Red, White, and Blueberries BBQ Bash

August 1-2: Peach Festival

September 7-October 25: Scarecrows in the Village

November 7-8: Apple Festival

Route 202 and Street Road, Lahaska, PA. www.peddlersvillage.com

Pennsbury Manor

June 21, July 19, August 16, September 20: Open Hearth Cooking

July 5, August 2, September 6: Historic Trade Demonstrations

July 12, August 9: Living History Theater

August 30: Animals at Pennsbury Manor

400 Pennsbury Memorial Road, Morrisville, PA. www.pennsburymanor.org

Philadelphia Celebrates 250

America Celebrates it’s 250th Anniversary

Through January 3: The Declarations Journey (Museum of the American Revolution)

Through July 5: A Nation of Artists (Philadelphia Museum of Art)

Ongoing: New exhibits at the National Constitution Center (America’s Founding, Governing the Nation)

June 19-July 4: Wawa Welcome America

1. June 27: Patriotic Concert & Fireworks on the Delaware River Waterfront

2. July 2: Red, White, and Blue To-Do in the Historic District

3. July 3: 38th Annual Liberty Medal Ceremony at Independence National Historical Park for Pope Leo XIV

4. July 3: Salute to Independence Semiquincentennial Parade

5. July 4: Concert and Fireworks on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway Philadelphia, PA. www.visitphilly.com

Quakertown Community Day

July 4: This annual festival at Quakertown Memorial Park includes live music, a car show, family-friendly activities, and a pancake breakfast. The day ends with a fireworks spectacular.

Quakertown, PA. facebook.com/QuakertownCommunityDay

Summerseat

Ongoing: Open Houses and Walking Tours

June 14: Flag Day Ceremony

July 4: Reading of the Declaration of Independence at noon, followed by USA Birthday

Celebration. Hillcrest Avenue and Legion Avenue, Morrisville, PA. www.historicsummerseat.com

Valley Forge: 50/250 Celebration

July 3-5: Retreat to Valley Forge over the Fourth of July weekend in 2026 and celebrate the 50th anniversary of Valley Forge National Historical Park and the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Special programs and events are scheduled for the three days. Valley Forge, PA. www.nps.gov/vafo

Washington Crossing Historic Park

Ongoing: Monthly Living History, Lecture Series

July 4: Independence Day Celebration featuring military encampments, living history demonstrations, fife and drum performance, food trucks, musket and artillery demonstrations, and fireworks over the Delaware River. Readings of the Declaration of Independence will occur throughout the evening. 4-9:30 p.m.

July 12: Rebels and Redcoats Car Show

September 25-November 7: Lantern Tours

December 13: First Crossing Reenactment

December 25: Annual Christmas Day Crossing 1112 River Road, Washington Crossing, PA. www.washingtoncrossingpark.org

Princeton University Library

America Celebrates it’s 250th Anniversary

HUNTERDON COUNTY, NJ

Hunterdon County will celebrate the 250 with parades. The official Hunterdon County 250th Parade will take place on June 14 on Flemington’s Main Street. Lots of planning is in the works to make the parade the best yet. Lebanon will hold their annual parade on July 4. This small-town celebration includes patriotic displays, followed by an afternoon of music, games, and fare at Holjes-Sheppard Memorial Park. www.explorehunterdonnj.com

MERCER COUNTY, NJ

Historic Princeton

Ongoing: America250 Walking Tour (Historical Society of Princeton)

Through October: Revolutionary Sundays (Princeton Battlefield Society)

Through July 12: Nursery of Rebellion: Princeton and the American Revolution. This exhibition will offer the chance to see the library’s original copies of the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution, wartime correspondence, military artifacts, and much more. (Princeton University Library)

September 10-October 1: Princeton and the

American Revolution: A Four-Part Series (Updike Farmstead)

December 27: The Battle of Princeton Reenactment (Princeton Battlefield Society) Princeton, NJ. www.experienceprinceton.org

Hopewell Valley Historical Society

July 4: Titusville Baby Parade

September 12-13: Heritage Week

November 18: The British are Here! The Occupation of Hopewell Valley 1776 (lecture)

December 12: Reopening of the Hopewell Museum Pennington, NJ. www.hopewellvalleyhistory.org

On view until January 10, 2027

Celebrating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, Michener Art Museum’s exhibition, TheCrroossing: Picturing the American Revolution, reexamines George Washington’s 1776 Delaware River crossing.

Morven Museum and Garden

Through January 27: Five Independent Souls: The Signers from New Jersey

July 4: Fourth of July Festival

September 4-February 28: Voices in Print: New Jersey Black Women Printmakers Shaping the American Narrative

October 3: Princeton 1776 Fest 55 Stockton Street, Princeton, NJ. www.morven.org

The New Jersey State Museum

Through February 27: Spirit of ’76: The Bicentennial

Through January 10: The Power to Change: Revolutionary Stories from the New Jersey State Archives. 205 West State Street, Trenton, NJ. www.nj.gov/state/museum

Old Barracks Museum

June 13: Trenton Barracks Founders Day

July 4: America 250 Celebration and Grand Reopening

September 18: Tavern Night

October 23: All Barracks Eve

November 11: James Selkirk's Revolutionary War by Author Robb K. Haberman

December 26: Battles of Trenton Reenactment

The Tile Works

Edward Hicks (1780-1849), w W Waashington at the Delawaare, 1830s. Oil on canvas, 17 ¼ x 28 ¼ inches. From the Collection of the Mercer Museum of the Bucks County Historical Society.

The Crossing: Picturing the American Revo generosity of the Philadelphia Funder Colla with major support from the Bucks County support from Eiseman Exterior Renovation Raymond James, and mini-grant from Buc

America Celebrates it’s 250th Anniversary

and Puppet Show, followed by the Colonial Ball. 101 Barrack Street, Trenton, NJ. www.barracks.org

Trenton Heritage Week

July 4: Cultural Heritage Parade and Festival. The parade begins at City Hall at noon. There will be a wreath laying ceremony at the Trenton Battle Monument. The Democracy Day Multicultural Festival at Mill Hill Park takes place from 1-6 p.m. July 5: Community and Reflection. United in Prayer starts the day at 1 p.m. at St. Michael's Episcopal Church. At 2 p.m. will be a Heritage Churches of Trenton Walking Tour. You can then celebrate America’s Potluck at the Old Barracks at 3 p.m. End the day at the William Trent House. At 4 p.m. there will be a reading of Frederick Douglass' 1852 speech with songs of the period.

July 6: Museum and History Day. Explore Trenton's historic institutions with free and discounted access throughout the day. There will be New Jersey State House tours (reservations required). You can view living documents at the New Jersey State Library.

July 8: 250th Annual Proclamation of the Declaration of Independence. The day includes an official reading at noon, followed by History Fest250, Walking Tour of Historic Downtown

Trenton, International Proclamation of the Declaration of Independence, and Blawenburg Band Colonial Concert. Trenton, NJ. www.trentonnj.org

Trenton Thunder Fireworks

July 4: Red, White, and Boomer

August 6: America at 250 Firework displays follow Trenton Thunder games. Trenton Thunder Ballpark, 1 Thunder Road, Trenton, NJ.

www.mlbdraftleague.com/ trenton

Washington Crossing Park Association

June-August: Summer Sunday Lecture Series

July 4: Commemoration of Independence Day. There will be readings of the Declaration of Independence periodically throughout the afternoon. Visit the new construction for the park. In the evening there will be a patriotic concert.

August 8: Outwater’s Militia Encampment

December 13: Annual Washington’s Landing in New Jersey event, coinciding with the Washington Crossing Historic Park First Crossing. 355 Washington Crossing-Pennington Road, Titusville, NJ. www.wcpa-nj.com

AMERICA250

Ongoing: Volunteer for a local organization through America Gives

July 1: American Frontier Celebration and Broadcast Special (Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library, Medora, North Dakota)

July 2: Time Capsule Dedication (Independence Hall, Philadelphia)

Mary Lou Erk has helped many Central Bucks area and surrounding community residents sell their homes, and she knows how to handle every aspect of the sales process - from strategic marketing and showcasing homes to making sure everything's signed, sealed and delivered by the closing date. Providing her clients

her top

Red Mill Musem Village

Mary Lou Erk Associate Broker

America Celebrates it’s 250th Anniversary

A Revolutionary Timeline

September 5-October 26, 1774: The First Continental Congress.

1775-1783: Residents recruit minutemen at Bonnell’s Tavern in Clinton, New Jersey. These soldiers will join the 2nd Hunterdon County Militia Regiment, which was directed by General George Washington to gather boats from Easton to Trenton.

May 10, 1775: The Second Continental.

January 10, 1776: Common Sense by Thomas Paine is published in Philadelphia.

June 11-July 4, 1776: Drafting and adoption of the Declaration of Independence.

June 1776-November 15, 1777: Drafting and adoption of the Articles of Confederation.

December 14, 1776: The Ambush of Geary. A skirmish that took place in Amwell Township, Hunterdon County. The British destroyed local ammunition supplies in the Flemington/Ringoes area. Cornet Francis Geary, a leader of the British Dragoons, was killed in an ambush set up by local militia led by Captain John Schenck.

December 25, 1776: The Continental Army, led by General George Washington, cross the Delaware River at McConkey’s Ferry to New Jersey. They then march through a Nor'easter to Trenton.

December 26, 1776: The First Battle of Trenton. The Hessians are defeated by the Continental Army.

January 2, 1777: The Second Battle of Trenton. The Continental Army fight the British and Hessians at Assunpink Creek. Washington and his men are victorious.

January 3, 1777: The Battle of Princeton. The British and Hessians are defeated by the Continental Army. The troops head to Morristown for winter quarters.

August 10, 1777: Marquis de Lafayette joins General Washington’s military family in Warwick Township, Bucks County.

September 26, 1777-June 18, 1778: British occupy Philadelphia. Washington and his men shelter at Valley Forge.

February 19, 1778: Raid on Newtown’s Bird-in-Hand Tavern. Loyalists and spies (including the Doan Gang) seize 2,000 yards of cloth, enough to outfit 500 men, and deliver it to the British in Philadelphia. The cloth was to make uniforms for troops at Valley Forge. The attack resulted in five Continental soldiers killed, four wounded, 11 captured.

May 1, 1778: The Battle of Crooked Billet. While most of this surprise attack occurred at the Crooked Billet Tavern in Hatboro, Montgomery County, the skirmish spread into Warminster. This was due to the British rerouting the Pennsylvania militia.

May 8, 1778: British forces search and destroy along the Delaware River. Patriot leaders are arrested, ships and military guardhouses are destroyed, and properties are burned to the ground. Bordentown, New Jersey, and Bristol are the primary targets.

March 1, 1781: Ratification of the Articles of Confederation.

October 14, 1781: The Doan Gang commit first known theft of local Buckingham Township tax collector.

October 22, 1781: The Doan Gang rob the Bucks County Treasury and Treasurer’s house in Newtown.

June-August 1783: The Doan Gang ramp up their robberies of tax collectors and raids of local homeowners who support the Revolution. Members of the gang are eventually executed, captured, or flee to Canada.

July 4-September 3, 1783: Princeton is selected to be home of the U.S. government by the Continental Congress. While in session, Congress receives the news that the Treaty of Paris was signed, ending the Revolutionary War.

May 25-September 17, 1787: The First Constitutional Convention.

April 30, 1789: Inauguration of U.S. President George Washington in New York City.

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

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

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.

CoCos Local Market

168 Swamp Road

Doylestown , PA www.cocoslocal.com

CoCo’s Local Market is a local farm stand dedicated to providing fresh, high-quality produce directly to our Doylestown, PA community. We’re proud to support local customers with the best of what our farm has to offer.It’s not just a product, it’s a lifestyle!

Dublin Agway

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

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 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.

Hearts in Motion

Equestrian Massage Therapy 484-664-0894

At Hearts in Motion Equine Massage Therapy, Kara is dedicated to helping horses movecomfortably, perform confidently, and feel their very best. As the owner of Hearts in Motion, Karaprovides individualized care tailored to each horse’s unique needs, whether they are competitive athletes, trail companions, lesson horses, or cherished retirees.

Hellericks Adventure Farm

5500 Easton Road Doylestown, PA www.hellericksfarm.com.

Hellerick’s is famous for helping people discover just how fun the great outdoors can be. Challenge our aerial course and scale our silo climbing wall. Enjoy our barnyard mini golf , the goat experience. You can pick flowers and crops and book a birthday party.

SUMMER FARM GUIDE

FARM MARKET STORE

Lima Family Farms

826 Amwell Road

Hillsborough, NJ

908-336-8238

www.limafamilyfarms.com

At Lima Family Farms, we believe our calling is to produce nutritious food, act as good stewards to the land, give back to our community, and create a resilient and economically sustainable farm. Our operations started in 2007 with 17 cows and has since grown to 175 head of cattle with the additions of turkeys, chickens, hens, pigs, a greenhouse, and a market store.

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.

Spring Creek Farm

6262 Meetinghouse Rd., Solebury, PA www.springcreekfarm.com 1628 Swamp Road Doylestown, PA

Spring Creek Farm is a working farm, market, and gathering place dedicated to sustainable food and community. Visit us for certified organic produce, pasture raised meats, and a true connection to the land. Members and non-members welcome.

2026 Annual Education Guide

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 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

Nazareth Academy High School is the only private, Catholic, fully accredited college preparatory schoolfor young women, sponsored by the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth. While focusing on service to God and others, Nazareth Academy provides a rigorous academic curriculum and varied extracurricular activities that provides an unrivaled comprehensive experience. Offering over 30 clubs, 14 athletic teams, 10 performing arts groups, and 40 AP & Honors Courses, Nazareth ensures each student is challenged and inspired to reach her full potential spiritually, academically, and personally.

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.

A GUIDE TO EDUCATION

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.

Plumstead Christian School

At Plumstead Christian School, students are known, challenged, and encouraged to grow in faith, virtue and knowledge. From preschool through high school, we partner with families to prepare students for a life of purpose, cultivating virtue, character, and a biblical worldview. Our program offers strong academics, vibrant fine arts, competitive athletics, and enriching opportunities that help students discover and develop their God-given gifts. In a supportive, Christ-centered community, students are equipped to think critically, lead faithfully, and serve others—both now and in the future.

Lower school - Preschool - 5th 753 New Galena Road, Chalfont, PA.

Middle & upper school 6th - 12 5765 Old Easton Road, Plumsteadville, PA www.plumsteadchristian.org

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

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New Hope Auto Show

The 69th Annual New Hope Automobile Show will take place on the campus of the New Hope-Solebury High School in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, on August 8 and August 9, 2026.

For many of us, the automobile is more than transportation—it’s memory on four wheels. A gleaming ‘57 Chevy might recall a first date at the drive-in. A Mustang fastback may bring back the soundtrack from the late 1960s. This sense of nostalgia is exactly why the New Hope Automobile Show continues to draw thousands of visitors every summer to our beautiful county.

Now entering its 2026 season, the show returns August 8–9 at the New Hope-Solebury High School campus in New Hope. Organized by New Hope Helping, the event has been a Bucks County tradition since 1957 and remains one of the country’s oldest judged antique and classic automobile shows.

What makes the New Hope show especially appealing for baby boomers is its focus on automotive history rather than flashy gimmicks. Saturday highlights domestic classics, while Sunday celebrates foreign automobiles. Visitors can expect everything from Brass Era touring cars to muscle cars, Corvettes, Mustangs, vintage motorcycles, hot rods, and beautifully restored luxury vehicles.

By Bill Waite

Photo Essay

A period of time which passed us by comes alive at the New Hope Auto Show. The days when life was simple and those prized family cruisers were absolute showstoppers. With gleaming chrome, whitewall tires, and polished finishes, they are rolling pieces of art.

Today, Baby Boomers often look back on this automotive period with deep emotional attachment and those of younger generations with a sense of astonishment. These cars, though not being driven by Millennials or the Gen Zs, are a welcome antidote to the sameness of today’s functional minimalistic design.

At

What Lies Beneath

At Concepts in Concrete, simple concrete, when finished, is polished, epoxied and transforms spaces in businesses and homes into beautiful and durable colorful rooms

Ilove a good transformation. Taking something mundane and infusing it with beauty and purpose is so satisfying. And just maybe that’s John Muldoon’s feeling too. As the owner of the Bristol-based company, Concepts in Concrete, that’s exactly what he and his team do every day.

From Bucks to Montgomery, Mercer County, NJ to the shore, Concepts in Concrete converts ordinary gray concrete into beautiful floors. Polished and stained concrete floors work great in main living spaces and basements. Speckled and shiny garage floors are achieved with epoxy (synthetic waterproof

resin) coatings and metallic epoxy floors. They offer a sparkle and WOW factor that just can’t be attained with other floor options. In all, a stunning alternative to laying tile or simply having a bare concrete floor in the basement, garage or outdoor patio. And that’s just for starters.

According to Operations & Sales Manager, Laura Estey, there are two sides to the business—industrial and residential. As you might guess, industrial applications are heavy duty finishes—like epoxies, which hold up to the wear and tear that heavy machinery, trucks require, and in working spaces that

12-13 2026

demand maximum strength, and even protection from electrical shock or temperature fluctuations from subzero to tropical conditions. You might think forklifts, warehouses with volumes of computers or assembly equipment—maybe heavy, stacked goods—the kind of stuff you would find in a home improvement or big box store—but even churches, restaurants and firehouses make up part of their portfolio.

In fact, there are so many options, in so many colors, it’s quite amazing and a bit confusing. Luckily, the Concepts in Concrete team help sort it out, as you might do with a designer or builder. Laura says, “The process of determining what can be done begins with a client call. A customer service rep will take down the information, access the project and make sure it’s an achievable goal. There are some limitations, depending upon the condition of the existing concrete. Broken, shifted, sinking concrete? We can’t always fix that but can do self-leveling concrete in applications to add a smooth finish to the top.”

“When it comes to stained concrete,” says Laura, “While we can do crazy designs, we tend to use colors that swirl rather than create bold streaks—using two to three colors to give it a stained effect.” Before old and cracked concrete can be stained, it needs an overlay—a smooth surface, much like a blank canvas. Moisture also plays a role in selecting a floor. Basements can have a lot of moisture not only in the air but trapped in the floor, thus making concrete a perfect choice—especially in wet basements and those that tend to flood. You can simply clean up the water, allow the floor to dry and you’re done. Sometimes it might need a sealer or moisture/ vapor barrier to hold down moisture. All these things play into what type of application is recommended. Clients will often bring in inspirational photos which are evaluated for the kind of application needed within a specific space. Once complete, an appointment is

set up for a sales rep to visit and check the location, current floor covering, moisture, and the client’s vision.

As for residential concrete applications, they’ve never been prettier, and easier to maintain. According to Laura, “For garages (their number 1 residential project), clients need to start with an empty garage. Once that is done, one of our guys will use a walk-behind grinder that takes off the top layer, disposing of dirt and debris. If repairs are needed, they are done with an epoxy mortar. Depending upon conditions, a base coat is 100 percent solid epoxy.” They then add chips to it to get that flecked design, which Laura jokes, is available in about a billion colors. Then once it has dried, they scrape the top to give it a slip-resistant, orange peel texture, add a polyaspartic topcoat (a fast-drying protective seal) which is UV, water, and chemical resistant. The finished product is easy to clean—a big plus for a garage, where oil

and dirt make their mark.

Twenty-three years ago, John says he fell in love with the business. After selling advertising, he met someone who worked in the concrete business. And once he learned they needed a sales rep, he nabbed it, worked there for several years, eventually opening his own concrete refinishing company—Concepts in Concrete.

Concrete has come a long way from what pours out of a cement truck or a bag from Home Depot. It has depth. It has purpose. And a great number of ways to integrate it into the design of both your indoor and outdoor space.

Concepts in Concrete is located at 701 Canal Street, Suite E, Bristol, PA. Call 215-709-9607 or visit www.philadelphia concretefloor.com.v

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

FINISHES AND BENEFIT

Epoxy Flake Floor: Great for garages, basements, offices, and warehouses. Very easy to clean, is slip resistant, and looks neat

Stained Concrete: Used in living spaces, restaurants, retail, It looks beautiful and is resistant to flooding.

Polished Concrete: Used for living spaces, in restaurants, retail as well as hightraffic areas. It is durable and low maintenance.

Metallic Epoxy: Also used in living spaces, retail showrooms where a high wow factor is desired. It’s durable and easy to clean.

Summer Storewide Living Room Sale!

to 5:00

Dela Where?

INot

knowing much about the beaches of Delaware, Tanya and I decided to pick a small beach town in the southern part of the state where we could relax and explore

t just doesn’t seem right. Afterall, we travel to the North Carolina shore, Virginia Beach, Ocean City, Maryland. At the Jersey Shore people recognize us walking down the street and think we live in the neighborhood, but we have never gone to any Delaware beach town. Tanya agrees, “Let’s go to a small beach town in Delaware.” I’m thinking that besides Rehoboth, they are all small. So we look for a beach with an interesting name. We look for somewhere that isn’t known well among our readers and somewhere we have never stayed. And we come up with Fenwick Island, Delaware—a small beach town at the southern end of Delaware.

Opposite top, a view of the Fenwick Island lighthouse built in August 1859.to keep ships from getting damaged by the shoals off the shore of the Island. Opposite bottom, Tanya and Bob have a breakfast in Milford, Delaware on the way to Fenwick Island. Top, the lobby at Fenwick Shores, Tapestry Collection by Hilton where Bob and Tanya stayed. Center left, a sampling of food at The Station where we had a great meal and excellent service on our first night in Delaware. Center right, a pristine beach at Fenwick Island State Park. Below an exterior view of the Fenwick Shores Hilton.

Actually Fenwick Island isn’t far from Ocean City and we both want to be close enough to take a visit to the Assateague Island National Seashore—and see the wild horses, beautiful beaches and walk the trails. But we plan on spending most of our time on the Delaware side of the state line.

We leave at around 11 a.m. Our destination is Fenwick Shores, Tapestry Collection by Hilton. The Tapestry Collection are actually independent hotels that, according to the Hilton website, “… are each rich in cultural charm and deeply connected to its destination. With vibrant designs and one-of-a-kind experiences, every Tapestry stay promises a unique adventure.” And we want a unique adventure. We overdressed for a drive to the beach, but there is a little business we have to engage with this morning (see our photo), and I did not want to return home.

We take the Coastal Highway down the Delmarva Peninsula passing Lewes, Rehoboth Beach, Bethany Beach, Dewey Beach and other small beach towns, crossing the gorgeous Indian River Inlet Bridge, driving on such a narrow stretch of the peninsula that looking to the right we see the bay and to the left the ocean.

Tanya loves the drive through what reminds her of wetlands at the Jersey Shore. “Look at that big bird!” she excitedly exclaims. “What is it?,” she asks. I say, “I don’t know Sweetie, but it sure is big!” We look for turtles, since they often cross the road. Signs tell us to be careful for them. As we both understand, they are slow. And today they are content to stay where they are.

Eventually we are at Fenwick Island, which is 18 miles south of Rehoboth Beach. Our hotel is right on the Coastal Highway. We enter and are met by a lovely desk clerk who chats with us for a while as we ask questions about the amenities. Then I park the car while Tanya takes photos of the lobby, which is enough to get oohs and aahs from someone as unaffected by hotel décor as me. The colorful chandelier with blue and purple stained glass stars dangling from it is impressive. The beige

furniture is very comfortable yet simple, and the openness to outside light lets you know you are by the sea. Wicker chairs are arranged around tables making them a perfect for family discussions or sharing a romantic moment over a cocktail. The carpeting is brightly designed in shades of blue and splashes of white—giving the lobby a seaside feel.

Mooncussers Restaurant blends seamlessly with the lobby and the bar is gorgeous with wicker chairs and lit blue glass cabinets that cover the large assortment of liquors. Tables for dining sit in front of the bar. Breakfast is free for overnight guests and the menu has small plates, bar food and sandwiches and some full-size entrees.

Tanya and I head for our room. Once there Tanya begins to take photos. I sit on the balcony. It does not overlook the ocean, but there is a path that leads right to the beach. I have been told the beach is pristine. I plan to see it, first thing tomorrow. We are there on April 30th and will be leaving May 2nd. The weather is temperate, around 65 degrees and I can smell the ocean.

The nautical themed room has two queen-sized beds and we are both intrigued by a framed boating knot and other interesting art we find. We are happy to have a sink, microwave and a Keurig coffeemaker. The beds have a nautical themed cover and the bathroom is perfect, with a rainforest shower and plenty of room for doing our morning ablutions.

We unpack. I am hungry and so is Tanya, so we look for somewhere to eat, and find that almost directly across the street is the Station, which is a large restaurant but since it is only 5 p.m., it is almost empty. We are met by a very friendly hostess, Alice. Tanya asks, “How are you darling?” And there is immediate connection. By the time we are shown to our table they are giggling like a couple of school girls. I am smiling. I love seeing my wife’s winsome manner as she turns bad days into good for so many people. Alice, smiling says, “I am going to assign you a table where you will get our best server,

WAKE UP WITH

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10 E. Butler Ave Chalfont, PA 18914

Richard.”

Alice’s selection is perfect. Richard comes to our table, not only asking what we want to drink, but going over the specials in detail and waiting for any questions. He knows the subtle flavors of spices and ways of cooking, so that he can describe in detail, not only what ingredients are used but also what it tastes like.

We order a shared appetizer, Mussels cooked in Thai green coconut curry with grilled flatbread. For drinks we go health conscious and ask for water with lemon and lime. Our appetizer comes and it is delicious. The Thai green coconut curry makes us wish we ordered one plate each. Live and learn. Richard recommends for me The Fish For The Day, which is Haddock, blackened with mashed potatoes, seasonal vegetables in lemon butter sauce. Tanya still has trouble making up her mind, but after Richard suggests several of the entrees, and she orders the Seared Ahi Tuna, served with coconut rice, sautéed bok choy and Asian slaw sesame crusted. While waiting for our order we search each other’s eyes, relaxing in a romance that has endured since our dating days.

After dinner we go back to the hotel. I stop on the way to our room to get some snacks and meet a desk clerk who had what I thought was an Australian accent. He tells me that he always gets that, but that he is from England. We talk about the subtle distinctions between the way people speak in different regions and I buy a bunch of snacks. Back in the room we watch a movie and then we both drift away into a deep sleep.

I get up early and go downstairs for coffee and a quick walk on the beach. Nothing is better than walking on a beach, looking at the ocean and drinking a cup of coffee. I am surprised to find out that Fenwick Island’s beach has a boardwalk located at the corner of Coastal Highway and W. Atlantic Street. There you can find Viking Golf & Go-Karts and the Thunder Lagoon Waterpark. Also there are spots that feature boardwalk fries, ice cream, pizza, and pretzels. In doesn’t have the feel

of a traditional boardwalk but is more like a strip mall by the sea.

I come back to the room and bring Tanya a cup of coffee. She is up. So after making a leisurely itinerary, I run across the street to go to The Pantry at The Station and get us some baked goods to eat for breakfast. I get us blueberry scones and coffee. We are both full of caffeine and sugar. We need an outlet. So, we get dressed and hop into the car.

Fenwick Island State Park has an entrance fee from May to December. It is

May 1st, so we decide that since we are not going paddleboarding, sailing, crabbing or fishing and we do not need the bathhouse, that we would change our itinerary and use our lifetime National Park membership to go to Assateague Island National Park, which is in Maryland. We are less than 10 miles from the Delaware/ Maryland border, so it is no problem.

As we approach the bridge leading to the island and park, Tanya gets excited. “I want to see my babies!” she says. Over the bridge she sees on both sides of the road about six wild horses. They seem to congregate by the bridge. Tanya tells me to stop and she gets out of the car, walks within 15 feet of the horses and begins to take photos. This is something I have to

We arrive at the hotel around noon and decide to get some lunch. We eat at our Fenwick Shore’s restaurant, Mooncussers. We each have a delicious burger, fries and a Coke. So, since we want to keep our trip inside Delaware, we jump into the car and head north on the Coastal Highway.

stop. The literature about these horses says to not get any closer than 40 feet because they may charge if you get too close or startle them. However, these horses obviously did not read the literature, since one of them actually walked toward Tanya. She says, “Look, he’s smiling at me.” I say, “Hon, slowly move backwards and get back in the car.” So she reluctantly got back in the car. We want to walk around the park, on the trails and beaches, but we realize that we are not really supposed to be in Maryland for this story, so we turn around and go back to Delaware.

We arrive at the hotel around noon and decide to get some lunch. We eat at our Fenwick Shore’s restaurant, Mooncussers. We each have a delicious burger, fries and a Coke. So, since we want to keep our trip inside Delaware, we jump into the car and head north on the Coastal Highway. We look again for Turtles but see none. I think, “These guys wouldn’t stand a chance racing a hare.”

We take a walk around in the town. We pass the Penny Lane Mall but do not enter. Then we take a walk down Rehoboth Avenue, which is the main street leading to the boardwalk and is lined with dozens of restaurants, art galleries, and boutiques. We love it. There is a sidewalk sale that brings a crowd of locals. I buy Tanya a bracelet and as we walk we nod and say hello to people to see if it is a friendly crowd. And sure enough it is. SevHeating Oil & HVAC

We cross the Indian River Inlet Bridge and keep going until we see the sign for Rehoboth Beach. We park near the boardwalk. As we walk the boards, we come across Funland, a family owned amusement park and find out we are too early. It doesn’t open until May 9 and we are here on May 1. “Shucky, shucky, shucky,” Tanya says. We walk the boardwalk past some boutiques and several souvenir shops. We see the historic bandstand where there are free summer concerts. And see panoramic views of the ocean. There are quite a few people walking the boards and plenty of spots to get boardwalk food. It is a sunny day.

eral people ask us where we are from, and we proudly say, “Bucks County Pennsylvania.” One woman tells Tanya how much she liked her hair. Tanya says, “Thank you sugar.”

I want coffee, so we make a stop at a little bakery/coffeehouse that is called “le macaron, french pastries & macarons” (yes, the name is in lower case). We go there, not because we are expecting really good coffee, but because Tanya loves macarons—those delicate, meringue-based French sandwich cookies that have a crisp shell and soft, chewy interior, made from almond flour, egg whites, and sugar.

As we enter le Macaron, Tanya is humming a tune that sounds unfamiliar, so I know two things: she made up the tune and that she is very happy. So I order a cup of coffee that I intend to share with Tanya, and she orders two macarons, one strawberry and one orange/mango. She exclaims, “These are delicious!” I take a nibble and have to concur. And the coffee is very good fresh ground and brewed to perfection. We walk around Rehoboth Avenue a little longer and then make our way to the car and head back towards Fenwick Island.

On the way back we stop at a Royal Farms and eat some fried chicken. It is not as good as what we ate in a Royal Farms in North Carolina but it is good for a northern state. Tanya and I buy some snacks there and soon we are back in the hotel. It is around 7 p.m. We’ve had a busy day and are thoroughly in love with the Delaware shore, so we take a little walk to the beach and stand there watching the ocean as shades of night drop.

Back in the room Tanya packs all but her next day’s clothing and I read for a while. We watch a movie and turn in. Morning arrives with a little rain and we finish packing, drink our coffee and leave. We both feel that we need more time to really get to know the southeastern Delaware shore. We will return. 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 foot care. 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.

VALVE

REPLACEMENT

ADVANCES

For decades, open-heart surgery was the standard approach for replacing damaged heart valves. Today, however, advances in medicine and technology are transforming the field, giving patients safer procedures, faster recoveries, and longer-lasting results.These innovations are helping millions of people with valve disease live healthier and more active lives.

Heart valves regulate blood flow through the heart, and when they become narrowed or leaky, serious complications can occur. Conditions such as aortic stenosis and mitral valve regurgitation can lead to fatigue, shortness of breath, heart failure, and even death if left untreated. Traditionally, valve replacement required a large chest incision and weeks of recovery. While effective, the procedure could be especially risky for older patients or those with other health concerns.

ing within hours and returning home in just a few days.

Artificial valve technology has also improved substantially. Modern mechanical valves are more durable and designed to reduce complications, while biological valves made from animal tissue now last longer than earlier generations. Researchers are also developing tissue-engineered valves that may eventually grow and adapt within the body, particularly beneficial for younger patients who currently require multiple surgeries over their lifetime.

Imaging and robotic technology are further enhancing outcomes. Advanced 3D imaging gives surgeons detailed views of the heart before and during procedures, increasing precision and reducing risks. Robotic-assisted surgery allows for smaller incisions and greater control, minimizing trauma to surrounding tissue.

One of the most significant breakthroughs in recent years is transcatheter valve replacement. Procedures such as Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement, commonly known as TAVR, allow surgeons to insert a new valve through a small catheter, often through an artery in the leg. The minimally invasive technique dramatically reduces hospital stays and recovery times. Many patients are walk-

Perhaps most importantly, these advances are expanding treatment options to patients once considered too high-risk for surgery. As technology continues to evolve, heart valve replacement is becoming less invasive, more personalized, and increasingly successful. The future of cardiac care promises not only longer survival, but also a better quality of life for patients around the world.

From competitive athletes rtthopedic care powered safety and patient experie y the nation’

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St. Luke’s s Orthopedic Care. Start here. Go far r. . Schedule online at sluhn.org/ortho or call 484-526-1735.

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HealthyLiving

TOP HEALTHCARE PERFORMER—ST.

LUKES

ASt. Luke’s University Health Network has been named one of the nation’s 15 Top Health Systems®, recognized by Modern Healthcare based on an objective quantitative analysis conducted by Premier, Inc.

The annual study evaluates health system performance across clinical outcomes, operational efficiency and patient experience to identify organizations delivering consistent, balanced and sustainable high performance.

Participation in the study is not application-based, and health systems do not opt in or out and are never asked to pay for inclusion, ensuring an objective and transparent assessment.

Specifically, Modern Healthcare and Premier identified St. Luke’s as the number one medium-size health system in the United States. Of the top 15 U.S. health systems of all sizes, St. Luke’s is the only Pennsylvania-based system.

“This recognition is a credit to the dedication, professionalism

and talent of St. Luke’s 23,000-plus employees,” said St. Luke’s Chief Quality Officer Donna Sabol. “It provides further affirmation of St. Luke’s remarkable achievement in standardizing excellence in care and service throughout 16 hospital campuses and hundreds of outpatient locations.

In the fall, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services ranked St. Luke’s as the nation’s top health system for quality, safety and patient experience.

Earlier this month, the Leapfrog Group, a national nonprofit health care ratings organization, released new Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grades, awarding A’s to every eligible legacy St. Luke’s acute care hospital. St. Luke’s also remains the only network in the greater Lehigh Valley region to be recognized on Modern Healthcare and Premier’s “100 Top Hospitals” list (12 years in a row and 14 years total) and the only one to earn comprehensive “five stars” from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.

HealthyLiving

NUTRITION AND METABOLISM

By Dr. Jonathan Oline, D.O.

In today’s fast-paced world, understanding the relationship between nutrition and metabolism is crucial for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Proper nutrition fuels our bodies, influences our metabolism, and ultimately impacts our overall health.

Nutrition is the science that studies the interactions between living organisms and the substances they consume for sustenance. A balanced diet provides essential nutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals, all of which play vital roles in bodily functions.

Carbohydrates are the primary energy source for the body. They are broken down into glucose, which fuels cells, tissues, and organs. Proteins are essential for growth, repair, and maintenance of body tissues. They are made up of amino acids, which are the building blocks of life. Fats are important for energy storage, insulation, and protecting vital organs. Healthy fats, like those found in avocados and nuts, can promote heart health. And Vitamins and Minerals are critical for various biochemical processes, including immune function, bone health, and energy production.

Metabolism refers to the chemical processes that occur within a living organism to maintain life. A well-functioning metabolism is essential for maintaining a healthy weight and preventing chronic diseases.What we consume directly impacts our metabolism. Here are a few key points to consider: A diet rich in whole foods can

boost metabolic processes. Whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables provide the necessary nutrients for optimal metabolic function. Water is also crucial for metabolic reactions. Staying hydrated can enhance metabolism and promote effective digestion.

Eating at regular intervals can help maintain energy levels and stabilize blood sugar, which supports a healthy metabolism. Regular exercise not only helps burn calories, but also increases muscle mass, which can enhance metabolic rate.

For those seeking comprehensive healthcare, the Lower Bucks Hospital Community Health Center focuses on preventive care for individuals from teenagers to seniors. Led by Dr. Jonathan Oline, DO, the center prioritizes family medicine, emphasizing the importance of regular check-ups, screenings, and wellness education to foster a healthier community.

Community Health Center located on the 3rd floor of Lower Bucks Hospital at 501 Bath Rd, Bristol, PA. Dr. Dr. Jonathon Oline is a board-certified internal medicine specialist with extensive expertise in interventional and general cardiology, who with his team, works to educate patients about the benefits of preventive care and identify potential health issues before they become serious concerns. For appointments, call 215-785-9677 or visit www.lowerbuckshosp.com.

During my forty years of private practice, the common denominator for patient success with amplification is motivation. When a patient is motivated to acquire better hearing, their quality of life will always improve.

However, those who aren’t motivated are doomed to self-inflict personal issues naturing in psychological, sociological, and personal happiness. Most appear to procrastinate in making the move into better hearing by way of new hearing aids.

Initially, the person needs to have awareness and acceptance of issues related to their hearing. You need to realize that your hearing has changed, while others have noticed that you are having difficulty with receptive speech. The affected person has difficulty understanding speech at a distance or in the presence of background noise, asking for others to repeat, mistaking some words for others, giving inappropriate responses to questions and comments, and requiring the television volume placed at a higher-than-normal level.

A private practice audiologist must be contacted for a complete audiological evaluation. The audiologist will take a complete

Right Care Starts with Confidence

PERSONAL CARE

history of your concerns, work & medical histories pertaining to hearing, and ask questions. At the conclusion, they review test results and issue professional recommendations.

If these recommendations include the need for new hearing aids, get them.The audiologist will show and explain the various styles & technology levels available and select the most appropriate for you.

Upon receipt of the amplification, a fitting appointment is scheduled. This session will take about one hour to be properly

fitted, adjusted, receive counselling and aural rehabilitation critical for your success. Follow-up sessions are scheduled as needed.

The first step to better hearing is contacting your local private practice audiologist for a checkup. Don’t procrastinate. Do something for yourself today!

Dr. Patrick M Murphy,Au.D., M.Ed., CCCA, FAAA is a board certified and licensed private practice audiologist in Doylestown, Bucks County, Pennsylvania. For an appointment call 215-230-9000. For more information, Visit www.murphyhearingservices.com.

HealthyLiving

A NEW ERA OF CLEAR VISION

When most people think of cataracts, they associate them with aging. But for Jason Benham, symptoms began much earlier and quickly started to impact his daily life. “At 41, I was experiencing triple vision that kept getting worse,” Jason shares. “Driving at night was tough, work became a struggle, and I couldn’t enjoy hobbies the way I used to.” After initially being misdiagnosed elsewhere, Jason found his way to Dr. Bing Chiu at Eye Associates of Bucks County, part of Center for Advanced Eye Care.

Dr. Chiu quickly identified the issue: cataracts. Cataracts can develop earlier than many expect, and routine eye exams play a critical role in catching them before they significantly impact quality of life.Today, cataract surgery also offers advanced technology intraocular lenses (IOLs) that can be customized to a patient's lifestyle, often significantly reducing the need for glasses. For Jason, the diagnosis brought both relief and uncertainty.

“I was honestly terrified,” he admits. “But the procedure was nothing like I imagined, quick, painless, and over before I knew it.”

Jason elected for cataract surgery with an extended depth of focus (EDOF) lens, designed to improve both distance and near vision.The results were immediate and lifechanging.

“The first thing I noticed was how bright and vibrant everything looked—it felt like a whole new world,” he says. “Now I have 20/15 vision in both eyes and don’t even need readers.”

Beyond the outcome, Jason emphasizes the experience. “Dr. Chiu is one of the nicest people you’ll ever meet. I never felt rushed or pressured; the entire team was compassionate and supportive.” His advice to others? “Don’t wait. It will truly change your life.”

Eye Associates of Bucks County is located at 360 Middletown Blvd #402, Langhorne, PA. To make an appointment, call 215-757-6200. For more information, visit www.centerforeyes.com.

PINE RUN VILLAGE LAKESIDE

AAt Pine Run Village Lakeview, a sense of belonging isn’t just a theme – it’s the very heart of the community.

Located in Doylestown, Pine Run offers an inviting retirement living experience where every Villager feels valued, supported and celebrated.The self-named Villagers enjoy independence, vibrant social connections and a full range of wellness support. Friendships flourish, passions thrive and new experiences await.

Pine Run Village offers a tight-knit community experience with opportunities for personal enrichment and recreation. Imagine spending your days participating in art classes, book clubs, fitness activities and nature walks on the beautiful grounds.The community’s Lifelong Learning Program opens doors to new skills and hobbies, with expert-led classes tailored to a wide range of interests.

Pine Run Village also stands out for its people-centered philosophy. Here, every resident is empowered to lead a life that is active and fulfilling. Whether you enjoy lively social gatherings or quiet time in peaceful surroundings, there is a place for you at Pine Run.

Discover a place where community means connection. Where you’re always welcomed with open arms. Discover Pine Run Village.You Belong, Here. Learn more about Pine Run Village at www.psl.org/pinerun.

PREVENTING SKIN CANCER

Skin cancer was once considered a condition that mainly affected older adults and sun worshippers, but dermatologists today are seeing a troubling rise in cases across nearly every age group. In fact, skin cancer is now the most common form of cancer in the United States, with millions of new cases diagnosed each year. Experts point to a combination of factors behind the increase, including years of excessive sun exposure, indoor tanning, thinning ozone protection, and a growing awareness that leads to more diagnoses.

The most common types are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma — the deadliest form. While melanoma accounts for fewer cases, it is responsible for the majority of skin cancer deaths because it can spread quickly if not caught early. The good news is that when detected in its earliest stages, melanoma is highly treatable.

Prevention remains the best defense. Dermatologists recommend wearing broadspectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 every day, even during cloudy weather. Wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and protective clothing can also reduce harmful ultraviolet exposure. Avoiding tanning beds is equally important, as studies have linked indoor tanning to a significantly higher risk of melanoma.

Routine skin checks are another critical tool in prevention. Many people overlook small changes in moles or spots, assuming they are harmless signs of aging. A yearly visit to a dermatologist can help identify suspicious changes long before they become dangerous. Dermatologists are trained to spot warning signs such as asymmetrical moles, irregular borders, uneven coloring, or lesions that bleed or do not heal.

As skin cancer rates continue to climb, awareness, prevention, and early detection remain the strongest weapons in protecting long-term health.

SENIOR CARE SOLUTIONS

As the nation’s largest and most reputable senior living advisory organization, we operate over 200 locations across the United States and Canada.CarePatrol of the Lehigh Valley & Upper Bucks, since 2014, serves as your local Certified Senior Advisor.

We personally access each client’s care requirements, financial consideration and preferred locations to recommend appropriate options in independent living, assisted living, memory care, and in-home care. Our advisory services are offered at no cost, as we collaborate with thoroughly vetted providers both locally and nationally.

CarePatrol of the Lehigh Valley & Upper Bucks is committed to delivering tailored support to families seeking suitable senior care solutions for their elder loved ones. Our comprehensive services include advocacy, consultation, and education guidance, all designed to facilitate a seamless transition into senior living.

For consultations regarding senior care options, please contact CarePatrol of the Lehigh Valley & Upper Bucks at 610-509-0445. Our experienced advisors are available to assist in identifying the most appropriate senior care options.

HealthyLiving

The Leisure Spa, owned and operated by Kerry Gao is the only spa in Doylestown offering the Ultimate Head Spa Experience. Release stress, restore balance, and revitalize your senses with our specialized head spa treatments. Gentle scalp massage combined with soothing techniques improves circulation, eases tension, and promotes deep relaxation—helping you feel refreshed inside and out.

Our dedicated therapists carefully tailor each session to wash away fatigue, support healthy hair and scalp, and restore harmony to your body and mind. More than just a treatment, our head spa is an exclusive ritual designed to leave you lighter, calmer, and glowing with renewed energy.

Other services include deep tissue massage, foot massage, cupping, electronic massage and UV Table therapy for total rejuvenation. Coming soon will be the Leisure Spa will include Himalayan Salt Room & Sauna Natural salt walls will purify the air, support breathing, and bring calm, combined with the sauna’s warmth for deep relaxation.

The Leisure Spa is located at 550 N Main St, Doylestown, PA. To schedule a treatment, call 215-550-7048 or visit www.leisurespapa.com.

HUNTERDON HEALTH EXPANDS

LAMBERTVILLE CAMPUS

Hunterdon Health has expanded the Lambertville Campus. The building includes Hunterdon Family Medicine at Phillips Barber, an imaging suite and specialists.

On the lower level, a Specialty Suite is shared space for gastroenterology, pulmonary, neurology, podiatry, dermatology, endocrinology, and pain management offices.A medical imaging suite also on the lower level, offers x-ray, and in the near future, dexascan, mammography, and ultrasound services will be added.

Later this year, a physical therapy office will open on the upper level.

As a reminder, Hunterdon Family Medicine at Phillips-Barber has board-certified family physicians who are specially trained to care for every member of your family, from newborns to adults.The practice offers access to providers with specialized training and expertise in women’s health and obstetrics, dermatologic procedures and care, sports medicine, mental health care, care of individuals with developmental disabilities, and integrative medicine, acupuncture, and osteopathic medicine and manipulation.The office also offers same-day appointments.

To schedule an appointment at Hunterdon Family Medicine at Phillips-Barber, please call 609-397-3535. Hunterdon Family Medicine at Phillips-Barber is located at 72 Alexander Avenue in Lambertville.

r. Bing Chui, MD

Cataract Surgeon

SQUEEZE YOUR WAY INTO SHAPE Staying Fit at Any Age

by Vicky Paraxismos Waite

Iwas away in the mountains, and I was telling Bill how I couldn’t use weights on my upper body workout due to that I pulled a muscle on my upper arm. I always at some point wanted to add in isometrics to my workout and what better time than now to do so. Bill always the guy with the helping hand came up with 5 isometric exercises for me. And it didn’t take long to get phenomenal results. No equipment needed and it didn’t cost a penny.

Isometric exercises also known as static strength training are contractions of a particular muscle for an extended period. Simply put, an isometric exercise is one that involves muscle engagement without movement. For example, if you show someone your arm muscle, you’re squeezing your muscle to a firm position and holding it for around 30 seconds. My injured upper arm got back to normal quickly which left me quite impressed with the results.

Through the years I’ve heard people ask, what is better isometrics or weights. Each one will give you great results. But to answer the question combining the two together can give you some striking results. Now I’ve included isometrics in my weekly routine one day a week. With my other days I continue with my weights. Isometrics are safe, effective and low impact, making them ideal for seniors to increase strength, improve balance, reduce blood pressure and maintain an independence without joint strain. It’s a game changer for those who have chronic pain. You can have a very effective work out with-

out even picking up a weight!

Isometrics build muscle strength and endurance without the repetitive joint grinding of traditional exercise. It strengthens muscles around the joints creating tension that can help to improve stability. Isometrics are particularly more productive for managing pain in cases of arthritis or rehabilitation, as they can produce a pain-relieving effect. And they are highly impact-

ful at enhancing muscle strength in a specific position, such as holding a plank or wall sit.

Isometric exercises are extremely good for heart health, they can produce a greater reduction in resting blood pressure compared to high intensity interval training. They can be performed anywhere without equipment and are potent for building strength even when joints are too damaged for full range of motion movement. For example, if you injure the rotator cuff, a health care provider or physical therapist may very well recom-

mend doing isometric exercises. They may suggest exercises that involve the group of muscles that help stabilize the shoulder. This can maintain shoulder strength during recovery.

As we age, we may need to put in more effort to keep our bodies strong and healthy. Our mobility, strength and balance may get harder to maintain, which increases the risks of falls and injuries. Fortunately, isometric exercises can be an effective way to help you stay fit and healthy as a senior. As you perform the exercise pay attention to your muscles contracting. This will enable you to ensure proper form and better muscle activation allowing for greater strength and endurance gains. It's common to forget to breathe during isometric exercises. You should make sure you are breathing throughout the entire exercise.

Isometric exercises are extremely good for heart health, they can produce a greater reduction in resting blood pressure compared to high intensity interval training.

Studies suggest that isometric exercises can be more effective than high intensity interval training for lowering resting blood pressure. It reduces arterial stiffness by improving blood flow and increasing nitric acid. Max Strength: Perform 1-5 second contractions at 80100% of maximum contraction. Hypertrophy: Hold for 3-30 seconds per session. Common examples: Plank, wall sit, glute bridge hold, L-sits and hanging knee raises.

Isometric exercises are great for any-

one who has arthritis. Arthritis could be aggravated by using muscles to move a joint through the full range of motion. However, those with arthritis perform isometric exercises and improve their strength, they may progress to other types of strength training.

Strength training may help reduce pain and improve physical function. Isometric exercises are excellent improving overall strength for seniors as isometrics focus on the muscles. You can pressure your balance and coordination, reducing the risks of falls and injuries. With old age comes muscle deterioration through a process called sarcopenia. The deterioration results in reduced muscle mass, strength and mobility. Regular isometric exercises can help build and maintain muscle mass, which is critical to combat mobility issues.

Isometrics are a powerful and convenient way to improve the feeling of control and connection in your weaker muscle groups at any time and any place. Waiting in line at the grocery store? Squeeze your shoulder blades down and back to feel your lower blades down and back to feel your lower traps working. And what about the glutes? You can squeeze them while you’re sitting down either by driving your knees outward against the legs of your desk, or by tucking your pelvis and squeezing your cheeks together. Sometimes it’s good to be a tight ass! LOL!

Go to these websites for a variety of isometric exercises.

https://www.darebee.com/workouts/isometristre ngth-workout.html, https://vertimax.com/blog/top-20-isometricexercises-for-static-strength-training

And with any exercise program be sure to consult your physician before beginning.

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!

Upper Bucks County

Scream For Gelato

Jemil and Sally Gadea’s Panna Gelateria & Bakery, located in Yardley, is where to scream for gelato as you try their gelatos, sorbetti, focaccia, pastries, cakes, pies and galettes

You scream. I scream. We all scream for gelato. Gelato? Wait, what? I know; I know, the line finishes with ice cream. But have you ever had gelato? I mean real gelato. Doesn’t matter how you answer. You’ll find no better outside of Italy—and maybe not even there considering the mix of flavors from classic to locally inspired creations you’ll find at Panna Gelateria & Bakery in Yardley.

That’s where Jemil and Sally Gadea work their magic. Though the husband and wife co-owners, both with pastry chef backgrounds, bounce ideas for their confections off of each other, each reigns over their own specialties. For Jemil, it’s gelato and focaccia. Pastries, cakes, hand pies and galettes—both savory and sweet—are Sally’s. Then there’s her Almond Poundcake, a customer favorite and a must on the menu. Another of her creations that garners customer favorite status is her Basque Cheesecake. Gluten-free, light and airy, its been described by one customer

“like a slice of the best crème brûlée you’ve ever had.” Look for it as well as others on their seasonal, holiday and rotation menus.

Food careers for the two seem to have been predestined while still teenagers. With a single, working mom and two younger siblings, Jemil became the chief chef of their home kitchen in Spring Lake, Michigan. Sally’s mom was known for her dinner parties in Washington Crossing, Sally as “her little helper.” From her, Sally says, she learned the art of not just cooking, but also making guests feel happy and welcome. All three would serve her and Jemil well at their own shop years later. But it was a storybook-like meeting that first brought the two of them together in 2013.

They were both working as pastry chefs in Washington, D.C. for a prestigious Italian restaurant group. At the urging of her friends, Jemil, who also created the specialty breads for the Chef’s Table at the restaurant group’s Michelin-star Masseria, helped

Photo:

Paul Wesley

Sally perfect her bread-making skills. Wasn’t long before their lessons turned into friendship and love. Five years later they married. By the time their daughter, Sofia, was born in 2020, they were ready to embark on their own. Armored with professional culinary and managerial skills—plus their love of cooking for others—they knew they wanted to open a food shop of their own in Bucks County.

With its warm, vibrant and inclusive community, Yardley was their target town. The big question was what kind of food shop. The epiphany came one day to Jemil on their way back to D.C. from Bucks— Gelato. Along with his pastries and breads, he was well known for his creamy gelato. It seemed like a no-brainer: Their shop would sell their handcrafted gelato and pastries.

Walking into Panna Gelateria & Bakery, you might think you are in Italy. Inspired by their many trips there, the shop’s decor draws from the Mediterranean. Its vibe a mix of Italian and Yardley warmth and welcoming spirit. Even the name of their shop, Jemil says, was inspired by a gelato shop on their first trip to Italy. But make no mistake. This is very much a community oriented shop, where Jemil and Sally greet customers by name and newcomers are made to feel welcome. There’s even a customer suggestion box for requesting special gelato flavors or pastries.

On any given day, you’ll find 12 different flavors, four of which are dairy-free including his sorbetti (sorbets.) The flavors change with the seasons and his inspirations. Though Jemil has never counted them, he estimates that they offer around 60 different flavors during the year along with the classics.

Sally calls him “the flavor king.” He can put flavors together that are weird or wild and make them taste delicious. His flavor palette is like a wardrobe, she says. Some flavors go together because they’re classic. But he’s also all about mix and match, creating new flavor sensations such as Cherry Malt Stracciatella, Pistachio Baklava and Lemon Brioche.

At the request of one of their regular customers to create a dessert to celebrate Diwali, Jemil created the cardamon, saffron and pistachio gelato Kulfi. Now a familiar favorite. For Jemil’s Classics, look for Italian Sweet Cream (fiordiatte which means flower of milk ), Chocolate and Buontalenti, a super-rich vanilla with mascarpone and a custard base. But even his classic Chocolate changes periodically, reimagining as Chocolate Candy Bar, Chocolate Caramel or Belgian Chocolate. No matter the flavor, however, they all start with fiordiatte, the classic gelato base.

Come summer, with the abundance of local fruit and produce, especially from CharLann Farm in Morrisville, look for the menu to change more frequently, he says. That’s when you can savor his SweetCorn/Caramel Corn gelato as well as CharLann’s melon-inspired ones.

The Sorbetti menu also rotates, offering around 30 different flavors during the year. Look for Pineapple Guava, Blackberry Basil, Verbena Peach, Vanilla Cherry Minted Melon (made with watermelon) and Sensation Melon.

Over on the pastry side, Sally’s roster of heavenly delights also changes with the seasons and her inspirations. Like Jemil, she favors local produce and fruit, especially from CharLann Farm. Some of her offerings this summer are Bacon and Cheddar Scones, Harissa and HoneyGlazed Carrot with Goat Cheese Galette, and hand pies either filled with fruit or vegetables.

The bakery side of the store is also where you’ll find Jemil’s sea salt focaccia (every day except Wednesday). Like everything Jemil and Sally make, it’s divinely delicious. Toasted and slathered with butter and local honey or as the backdrop for bruschetta or a prosciutto, arugula and pear sandwich just seems to make the day a little brighter.

Though he makes the sea salt focaccia most often, Jemil may include others: tomato, “garlic knot,” pesto and onion. Summer is when you’ll find his tomato, pesto, olive and zucchini focaccia.

Simply put, gelato is more milk based than cream and may or may not contain egg. It also has less calories than ice cream. Ice cream is a mix of milk, cream, sugar and egg. Other differences, he says, are gelato is typically served at a slightly warmer temperature. “And we churn our gelato at a lower speed so it’s more dense and has a more intense flavor with less fat and less sugar.” Sorbetto is fruit-based with no dairy, so it’s vegan-friendly.

A few words of advice:

1. Bring a cooler. I made the mistake of not bringing one the first time I visited Panna Gelateria and Bakery. Because of its small size, the shop isn’t able to sell their gelato frozen or offer ice packs to take home with a pint or more of their gelato and/or sorbetto.

2. Mark your calendar: Panna Gelateria and Bakery will be closed August 11— 26 for family vacation. So be sure to stock up before.

The first time I tasted Jemil’s gelato was a couple of years ago at the Wrightstown Farmers Market. He was selling from Panna Gelateria and Bakery’s festive gelato cart. Made in Sicily, the cart is typical of those found in Italy, Jemil says. That day I tried his Italian Sweet Cream, Fior de Latte. Creamy and rich in flavor, so much so I still remember that first taste.

To rent Panna Gelateria & Bakery’s gelato cart for private parties, see their website: www.pannagelateria.com.

Borrowing from another ice cream saying: “You can’t buy happiness, but you can buy gelato and that is pretty much the same thing.” Once you’ve tasted Panna Gelateria and Bakery gelato, I think you’ll agree.

Panna Gelateria and Bakery is located at 25 S. Main Street, Yardley, PA; 215369-9900. It is open Mon.-Sun. 10 a.m.–9 p.m. For more information, visit www.pannagelateria.com. v

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

Restaurants with Taste / Frank D.Quattrone

FLOURish Café

Although we didn’t arrive until dinnertime, we just had to try the Syrniki Classic—the signature dish at Newtown’s FLOURish Café, served daily from 7:30 a.m. until 3 p.m. An Eastern European specialty, syrniki are crispy-soft golden pancakes fashioned from creamy farmer’s cheese and lightly pan-fried. Served with fresh berries and sour cream, with a drizzle of house-made cherry jam,

they alone are worth the price of admission to this elegant yet casual upscale café.

And yes—you wonder about that name? Why capitalize the word FLOUR? That’s entirely by design—another creative flourish from the fertile mind of chefowner Madina Chilashvili, whose grandmother, a self-taught professional pastry chef in their native Russia, ignited her lifelong passion for baking. Chef Madina told me she made her first cake at the

age of 9, her first birthday cake three years later and soon graduated to wedding cakes.

Today, the self-taught chef specializes not only in pancakes, Danish, and sweets of every kind but also in breads, buns, pastas, and a host of inspired breakfast, lunch, and dinner treats that longtime patrons and new fans like us find James Beardworthy.

And talk about inspiration? Madina

Photos: Paul Wesley

First Watch

When our dear granddaughter Jenni invited us to join her for brunch at the First Watch in Villanova several years ago, Eve and I had no idea that it was part of a nationwide restaurant chain. Our meal was so good, so special, and the service so warm and friendly, that we just assumed it was a stand-alone. Were we ever so wrong—and so very

right! After countless visits to the Abington location not far from our home, and now, following two great meals at the Doylestown site, we just had to know more. So, we sat down with Thomas Deems, the general manager of the Doylestown branch, to hear the story.

Open at the Barn Plaza since September 2025, just a stone’s throw from the magical Barnes & Noble, the Doylestown location continues the restaurant

group’s unmatched chain of excellence since it was founded in 1983 in Bradenton, Florida. With more than 630 branches situated in thirty-two states, First Watch prides itself on its mission, as promised on its familiar slogan: “We follow the sun,” a reference to its breakfast, brunch and lunch menu concept. First Watch is open daily from 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

The morning of our most recent visit,

says the recipes come to her in dreams she writes down when she awakens, tweaking and testing them until they taste just right. So how did she end up at FLOURish?

She came to America at the age of 12, began baking from her home at 20, bought a commercial freezer and fridge five years later, and launched her passion for friends and neighbors. By 2019, she had successfully filled so many Christmas orders that her husband and dearest friend, Sahin, encouraged her to open her own bakery. They soon found what she calls “a cute space” at 777 Second Street Pike in Southampton and knew immediately that her magical “number” had been called.

Within a year, the bakery had become so successful that Sahin suggested a new location—this time in Holland, Bucks County—where Madina could also offer both breakfast and lunch, with all orders, every item—her modus operandi to this day—made from scratch. But with only fifty seats, the Holland site eventually became too small, so Madina and her brother, Kamil, her business partner, added their Newtown location (as well as dinner offerings), where they celebrated their first anniversary on April 26 of this year. Where, to no one’s surprise, they have been flourishing ever since.

“I have so much fun in the kitchen,” said Madina during our first visit, “and I love teaching my sixteen chefs everything I know.” True to her word, the sous chefs prepared a wonderful tasting menu to show us the range of Madina’s culinary genius.

Accompanying our Syrniki Classic (the earlier day favorite) was the popular Sicilian appetizer Arancini, golden-fried risotto croquettes lightly seasoned and filled with creamy mozzarella in a silky tomato basil sauce. Between these starters and our entrées, our courtly server Tina Conly made us two of FLOURish’s signature drinks. She made Eve a non-alcoholic Mojito, blending mint, lime, and sparkling

water, infused by fresh raspberries and a hint of raspberry syrup; and for me, the vibrant, citrusy Sunrise—a refreshing blend of pineapple, orange, and lemon juice, with a splash of grenadine. More of Madina’s magic!

To accompany our main entrées, we were served a fascinating Caesar in the Crispy Garlic Bowl and a massive Italianate toasted Bruschetta “La Caprese,” virtually a meal in itself, topped with ripe cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil, and drizzled with a rich pesto sauce. We enjoyed the Vegetarian Flatbread, lavished with pesto, zucchini, and eggplant, topped with paprika and tomato sauce; and Creamy Chicken Pasta—wide pappardelle enveloped in a sweet pool of savory chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh zucchini and mushrooms¬—a rich, earthy delight.

Also on the menu, for future reference, are (for breakfast) Italian Frittata and Eggs Florentine; (for starters) Beetroot Salad and Pumpkin Soup; (11 a.m. to close) Hawaiian Sandwich and Pulled Beef Flatbread; (3 p.m. to close) Gnocchi al Gorgonzola & Pear and Seafood Tagliatelle; and main entrées Kyiv Style Cutlet, Stewed Rabbit, and Branzino Fillets. Quite an impressive set of European choices, no?

But what would a meal at FLOURish Café be without Madina’s ever-changing signature desserts? We were absolutely delighted by the pastry maven’s Basque Cheesecake, topped with chocolate ganache, and a huge slice of her Red Velvet Cake, made with organic velvet powder, and accompanied by a generous mug of Dubai Chocolate Coffee (served with almond milk for this lactose-intolerant guest) and, for Eve, a fragrant demi of Turkish coffee, served in a traditional Ottoman cezve pot.

With plans to open a third FLOURish Café in Cherry Hill, N.J., this July as well as franchising more locations to anyone willing to respect her vision, it’s clear that Chef Madina’s “desire to bring Europeanstyle food, with every item made from

scratch, to America,” is flourishing beyond her wildest dream.

FLOURish Café is located at 2817 S. Eagle Road, Newtown, PA; 267-983-7821; www.theflourishcafe.com. Open for breakfast and lunch, daily, 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., and for dinner, Monday–Friday & Sunday, 3 to 9 p.m., and Saturday, 3 to 10 p.m. Available for bridal showers, business lunches, and milestone celebrations. Reservations accepted, except for major holidays. Reservations recommended. Available for private parties.

Fisrst Watch

the restaurant was buzzing with bright conversation and laughter, as guests were digging in to their omelets, frittatas, benedicts, bowls, and sandwiches, accompanied by world-class coffee and juices. At Thomas Deems’s recommendation, I ordered the Strawberry Tres Leches French Toast from the special Winter-Spring Menu.

I make French Toast all the time, but I’ve never tasted one like this! The thickly cut challah bread is dipped in custard, kissed by freshly glazed strawberries and warm dulce de leche (a sugary caramel-like sauce), topped with a dollop of whipped cream, dusted with powdered sugar, and accompanied by spiced gingerbread crumbles. It more than satisfied my daily breakfast craving, and there was plenty to enjoy the next day!

From the regular menu, Eve ordered the Cobb Salad, a virtual entrée that ultimately lasted for three meals—a hearty bowl of organic mixed greens and romaine, blended with bacon, turkey, and hard-boiled egg, along with tomatoes, avocado, cheddar and Monterey Jack, drizzled with buttermilk ranch dressing, with artisan ciabatta toast on the side. Who needs a big dinner after a brunch like this!

The new menu, “three years in the making,” according to the G.M., is based on regular virtual meetings held every ten weeks, featuring district operators,

franchise operators, and general managers, under the direction of Corporate Chef & Vice President of Culinary Strategy Shane Shaibly, with plenty of input from patron responses and preferences.

And the Seasonal Menus, both printed and colorfully etched across a huge chalk board visible throughout the restaurant, tease guests into trying even more choices, like my Tres Leches French Toast and the Chimichurri Steak & Eggs Hash—a bit too filling for my day but a popular seasonal entrée.

Among the most popular items on the regular menu are the so-called “Classics,” including one of my personal favorites¬—the Tri-Fecta, two cage-free eggs (any style), with your choice of bacon, smoked ham, chicken apple sausage patties, turkey or pork sausage links, served with whole-grain artisan toast and fresh seasoned potatoes. Many guests (including this one) upgrade to First Watch’s signature Million Dollar Bacon, four slices of hardwood-smoked

bacon glazed with brown sugar, black pepper, a touch of cayenne, and a drizzle of syrup.

But not all dishes need be as rich as these. First Watch also prides itself on its organic, gluten-free, and vegetarian options. One of the most popular is the A.M. Superfoods Bowl, consisting of coconut milk chia seed pudding, fresh sliced bananas and berries, mixed berry compote, house made granola with almonds, served with whole-grain artisan toast with almond butter and Maldon sea salt.

Thomas, the general manager, says that despite the absolute consistency demanded at every First Watch location, “We’re more than willing to accommodate personal preferences. If we can do it, we’re gonna do it, because we respect you and we want you to come back.” The staff, by the way, has a lot to do with return visits. Thomas tells us that their training “includes a focus on hospitality. We want the staff to make you feel special.”

Not just a slogan. They’re always smiling. They take their time with each guest. And our server, Marty Salender, “entertained” us with his gentle sense of humor as we dined. We know the staff at the Abington location by name (and they know ours) and they treat us like long-lost family. Maybe, because of their daytime hours, “they really have a life beyond the work they enjoy.”

No surprise that, as Thomas told us, a new branch of First Watch opens somewhere across the country every single week. So, the next time you feel like “following the sun,” set your course for Doylestown’s First Watch.

First Watch Doylestown is located at 1745 So. Easton Road, Doylestown, PA; 215-7928027; https://firstwatch.com/locations/doylestown. Open daily for breakfast, brunch, and lunch, 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Reservations not needed; just walk in. But you can “get in line” by ordering online.

BucksCounty

BUCKS COUNTY

Alessio’s Seafood Grille, 827 Easton Road, Warrington, PA 215-483-8500.

www.alessioseafoodgrille.com

Alessio’s Seafood Grille serves fresh, flavorful Italian seafood dishes prepared with the finest ingredients from around the world. Everything is made by hand in our restaurant everyday, from delicious appetizers and favorably sauces to our salad dressings and homemade Italian seafood specialties. Serving seafood, Italian dishes and pizza.

Baci Ristorante

Route 202 & 413, Buckingham, PA 215-794-7784

www.baciristorante.com.

A charming Bucks County fieldstone restaurant that offers fireside and balcony dining in the upstairs restaurant. Enjoy the Heart of the Oak Pub offering both the Pub menu and Baci’s menu. Serves Northern Italian cuisine including pasta, seafood,

chicken, chops, veal and steak entrees. Facilities for weddings and private parties up to 120. Extensive wine list and imported beers on tap in the Oak Pub. Online menus. Enjoy the piano bar on Friday and Saturday evenings. Open 7 days a week for lunch and dinner. Menus online.Reservations accepted. Accepts major credit cards.

Charcoal BYOB

11 South Delaware Ave. Yardley, PA 215-493-6394

www.charcoalbyob.com

A neighborhood gem, since 1995, Charcoal has been crafting seasonal meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner. At Charcoal we experiment with modern culinary techniques while incorporating the classics.The room is casual and comfortable, entertaining both young families and long time regulars. In the evening, the music changes, candles are set out on the tables, and many diners show up with some of their favorite bottles of wine. Handmade pastas, the freshest seafood, Painted Hills beef, Griggstown Farm Chickens fried to order, and house made bread and desserts make any evening feel special. Char-

Alluring. Rustic. Timeless. Fine Dining, Sunday Supper, Private Events (609)-397-0802

Woolverton Rd Stockton, NJ northridgebarn com

woolvertoninn com

com

coal BYOB is a family restaurant, with a bit of a modern twist.

Chez Daniel 51 Brdige Street Frenchtown, NJ 908-628-9692

Chez Daniel is a casual dining restaurant created by Chef Daniel Gras. The restaurant offesr a cozy and inviting atmosphere while serving some traditional French & American cuisine. Whether you're in the mood for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, Chez Daniel is the perfect spot to enjoy great food and great company. Daniel Gras, originally from Cape May NJ, grew up in the restaurant and food service business. His grandfather was chef (pictured above) and had a restaurant in France and his father is a classically trained French baker.

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 peppercorn-brandy cream, angel hair pasta with lobster,

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

and creme brulee. Full bar. Online menus. Open for dinner

Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday 5–9 p.m.; Sunday 4–8 p.m. closed Tuesdays. Reservations accepted. Accepts Visa, MC, and American Express.

Golden Pheasant Inn

763 River Road

Erwinna, PA 18920

610-294-9595

www.goldenpheasantinn.com

Indulge in French-inspired cuisine, enhanced by the charm of Bucks County’s lush surroundings. With a commitment to seasonal and locally-sourced ingredients, each dish showcases fresh, vibrant flavors crafted by renowned chefs who blend classic techniques with innovative touches. Signature dishes might include pan-seared duck breast, tender filet mignon, and elegant vegetable-forward creations, all accompanied by an extensive wine list curated to enhance the flavors of each course.

Whether for a special celebration or a leisurely meal, dining at the Golden Pheasant Inn is an experience that celebrates the art of fine dining in an intimate, countryside setting.

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.

Washington Crossing Inn

1295 General Washington Memorial Blvd., Washington Crossing, PA 215-493-3634

www.washingtoncrossinginn.com.

The Washington Crossing Inn adjoins the spot where George Washington and his troops assembled before crossing the Delaware River on Christmas Eve night in 1776. Executive Chef Estaurdo Gonzalez serves up fresh salads, appetizers, and entrees such as Filet Mignon, Apricot Pork Chops, Chicken Schnitzel, Homemade Gnocchi Primavera, Rigatoni Alla Vodka, Grilled Salmon, Crabcakes, and Sesame Tuna. Bar and cocktails.

munity at the heart of Bucks County.We believe that the best experiences are shared with friends and family enjoying food and drink with warm hospitality. From fresh, house-made pastas to craft cocktails featuring local spirits, we offer a taste of Doylestown that values traditions, both new and old.

Wycome Tavern & Grille

1073 Mill Creek Road Wycombe, PA 215-827-0177

www.wycombetavern.com

Elevated gastro pub serving a selection of comforting Ameri-

Dining Out Guide

can fare—appetizers, soups, salads, wings, handhelds, gourmet burgers, artisanal bar pizza, premium steak, pasta, and seafood. Full bar. Serving lunch and dinner Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 11:30am-10pm; Friday & Saturday 11:30am11pm; Sunday, 11:30am-10pm. Kitchen closes 1 hour before the restaurant closes. Reservations highly recommended. The Loft (located upstairs) is available for private events; call for details. All major credit cards accepted.

Vela Restaurant

140 Veterans Ln, Doylestown, PA 215-230-8352 www.veladoylestown.com

Vela is named for our location on Veterans Lane in Doylestown. We opened our doors in 2018, excited to join the com munity at the heart of Bucks County.We believe that the best experiences are shared with friends and family enjoying food and drink with warm hospitality. From fresh, house-made pastas to craft cocktails featuring local spirits, we offer a taste of Doylestown that values traditions, both new and old.

Sunset

For, lo, the winter is past, the rain is over and gone; The flowers appear on the earth; the time of the singing of birds is come, and the voice of the turtle is heard in our land; The fig tree putteth forth her green figs, and the vines with the tender grape give a good smell. Arise, my love, my fair one, and come away. Song of Solomon 2:11-13