The Doylestown Cardinal - December 2022

By James Lamb • Evolution Candy Special to The Cardinal

This is especially true for small business owners. It is giftgiving season, after all. With all the hustle and bustle of shoppers trying to find the perfect gifts for their kids, family, friends, bosses, co-workers, neighbors, and other loved ones, local small businesses have something for everyone.

Looking for a unique gift you can’t find anywhere else? Check out a local small business. Want something with a personal touch? A local small business has you covered. Need something specific that the recipient is guaranteed to love? You guessed it! Stop by a local small business.

Doylestown has a wide variety of one-of-a-kind, “momand-pop” boutiques and shops. Most are independently owned and operated by local families who live in the community. The truly small-town vibe sings “where everybody knows your name.”

A smiling face of a shop owner truly happy to see customers guarantees a kind greeting. Also guaranteed: personal attention, and answers to questions about products, such as: What’s popular? Which items do kids like? Who makes this? What ingredients does it contain?

Of course, there’s something to be said about just jumping on the computer, hitting a couple of buttons, and ordering a gift. However, 99.9 percent of local small businesses have websites. If you just don’t have the time to go into town, check out their sites,

By Natalya Bucuy The Cardinal Contributing Writer

Whether you started getting ready for the holidays the day after Thanksgiving, on Nov. 1, or back in July, we can all agree that now is finally the time to go all out. Bring out grandma’s sugar cookie recipe. Put up all of the lights. Hang the mistletoe and relax with your loved ones by the fire. And in case you’re looking for new activities to add to your holiday list, here are 10 ways to get festive in Bucks County this holiday season.

Since 1992, members of the Christmas in Doylestown House Tour committee have decorated 102 different Doylestown homes. Families permit the committee to decorate their houses for the holidays and open their homes to the public to view the decorations.

“We find that people annually take the tour for three main reasons: to festively start the holiday season, to get decorating ideas for their own homes, or just to see the interiors of many classic Doylestown homes,” says Jean Rollo, one of the lead decorators for Christmas in Doylestown.

By Dana Roberts The Cardinal Contributing Writer

“Get to Know a Doylestownian” is a monthly feature in which a Doylestown resident or person of interest helps us get to know them better by finishing sentences we provide; in any way they see fit. This month, with the holidays being a time of giving, we wanted to focus on someone with a passion for philanthropy. We interviewed John Ordway, Doylestown borough resident, and owner of Jules Pizza and Lovebird restaurants. Read on to learn about how John gives back through his hobby of flying and a feel-good way to get a free slice of pizza.

We opened Jules in 2005 because…there was a need for places where families could eat that were healthy, quick, and delicious. Pizza is a unifying, non-polarizing food, and that’s the gist behind Jules. Our girls, Bella and Julia, were 8 and 4 when we opened.

“It’s the most wonderful time of the year!”

1. Get Inspired at Christmas in Doylestown House Tour

Fonthill

Aark Teaches Young and Old About Saved Animals

Community members of all ages learned about efforts to save injured or orphaned wild animals, and got to meet some of those saved by the Aark Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Center, of Chalfont.

Nick Brewster, Aark’s director of education, conducted a one-hour presentation Saturday in a program hosted by the Friends of the Doylestown Library. He introduced the crowd to a tree frog, turtles, a corn snake, a screech owl, and a redtail hawk, all rescued by Aark.

animals are brought to the center with conditions that would prevent them from living on their own.

For example, he introduced the crowd to Harry, an adult screech owl who miraculously survived a collision with a car, but lost one eye in the accident, preventing him from being able to hunt for prey. Likewise, Windsor, an adult female redtail hawk, was found with one eye and emaciated because she was unable to hunt without the acute vision for which hawks are known.

“Normally, she could see a mouse on the ground from 1,000 feet up, but with one eye she lacks the depth perception to hunt like that,” Brewster said.

He encouraged those attending the presentation to contact Aark right away if they find a wild animal needing help, explaining that well-meaning people often try to nurse injured or orphaned animals back to health, but may feed or care for them in ways that prevent the animals from surviving in the wild.

Celebrate the Holiday Season at Fonthill Castle

The Mercer Museum & Fonthill Castle are pleased to present their 2022 Holiday programming schedule for the holiday season at Fonthill Castle (525 East Court Street, Doylestown), the home and showplace of Henry Chapman Mercer, located in Doylestown, the heart of Bucks County, PA.

This year, there are three different ways to visit Fonthill Castle during the holiday season:

Daily Winter Wonderland Guided Tours

Holiday Lights Meander tour route at your own pace!

Knowledgeable tour guides are available along the holiday route to answer questions and make this a seasonal experience to remember for the whole family.

Fonthill Castle Guided Evening Tours

Thursdays: December 8, 15, 22, & 29

Wednesday, December 28

Tour times begin at 5:00 p.m.

Last tour is at 6:45 p.m.

Each year, Aark treats over 6,000 animals, making it the busiest wildlife rehabilitation center in Pennsylvania. Brewster emphasized that Aark works to reintroduce most of the animals it treats back into the wild when they’re treatment and rehab are completed, but some of the

Aark was founded in 1979 and is run by a staff of wildlife professionals and more than 100 trained volunteers, who provide care for the many animals in the center’s care. For more information or to report an injured or orphaned wild animal, contact Aark at (215) 249-1938 or visit: www. Aark.org

The Friends of the Doylestown Library is a non-profit organization supporting the Doylestown Library.

Weekdays starting Saturday, November 19 $15 Adult/$13 Senior (65+)/$10 Student/$8 Youth

(6-17)/Free Child (5 and under)/Free BCHS Member

Starting on Saturday, November 19th on all weekdays throughout the holiday season, daily one-hour guided tours of historic Fonthill Castle showcase Henry Mercer’s home decked for the holidays while sharing the history of Mercer and the construction of this unique property. Tours are 60 minutes and guided.

Fonthill Castle’s interior features Mercer’s renowned, handcrafted ceramic tiles designed at the height of the Arts and Crafts movement, and the castle serves as an early example of reinforced concrete architecture with forty-four rooms, two hundred windows, and eighteen fireplaces.

Holiday Lights Meander Days

Saturdays & Sundays: December 3 & 4, 10 & 11, 17 & 18 10:00 a.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Time slots begin every 10 minutes

Special Dates & Times: Saturday, December 24 (Christmas Eve Day) Saturday, December 31 (New Year’s Eve Day) 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Time slots begin every 10 minutes

$20 Adult/$15 BCHS Member Adult/$10 Youth (6-17)/$5 Child (5 and under)

Offered on Saturdays and Sundays from December 3 through December 31, these special days allow you to explore the 2022

$25 Adults • $20 Member Adults

$10 Youth (6-17) • $5 Child (5 and under)

Delight in the splendor of a guided historic evening tour at Fonthill Castle decked out for the holidays. Fonthill Castle was the home of Henry Chapman Mercer and an early example of reinforced concrete architecture. Discover Mercer’s renowned ceramic tiles during these intimate 45-minute guided historic tours of the castle’s unique rooms and artifacts.

Holidays at Fonthill Castle is supported by Penn Color, Bountiful Acres, Fred Beans, Happ Contractors, and Sovereign Insurance Group.

Advanced tickets are highly recommended for all of these holiday events, as they sell out every year. Please book early to avoid disappointment. Tickets are non-refundable and nontransferable and cannot be exchanged for a new date or time.

Guests should arrive 10 minutes prior to event start time, and late arrivals may not be accommodated. Parking is available in the Fonthill Castle parking lot off of the main site entrance on Swamp Road (Rt. 313), and check-in is located at the Fonthill Castle Welcome Center.

Fonthill Castle is closed on the following holiday days: Thursday, November 24, 2022 (Thanksgiving Day), Sunday, December 25, 2022 (Christmas Day), Monday, December 26, 2022, Sunday, January 1, 2023 (New Year’s Day), and Monday, January 2, 2023.

Up-to-date schedules and tickets are at mercermuseum.org/holidays.

Photograph by Kevin Crawford Imagery LLC

The Roaming Realtor

This Olde House •

From Hollywood to Doylestown: The Storybook House

Ithink we all love the multitude of architectural styles in Doylestown Borough. It is what gives the town its charm. This Storybook house at 300 West Court Street is the full brick house that the Big Bad Wolf could not blow down. Built in 1934 for J. David Miller, the house remained in that family until his death in 2011.

The style of Storybook architecture was popularized in the 1920s in England and the United States. The style is a nod toward the Hollywood design technically called Provincial Revivalism and more commonly “Fairy Tale” or “Hansel and Gretel.” There is no specific definition of what makes a house Storybook style. The main factor may be a sense of playfulness and whimsy. Most seem taken out of a craggy old-world village with intentionally uneven roofs, cobblestones, doors, and windows which can look mismatched and odd-shaped.

The design took a foothold in California, particularly in Los Angeles, during the 1920s and 1930s. In the 1920s, after soldiers returned from the war in Europe, and the film industry exploded, people became fascinated with charming and exotic architecture. The Storybook style became a trend. The style started in Hollywood, built by skilled set designers and builders for eccentric wealthy clients. The style soon spread to San Francisco, and up the Pacific Northwest, and by the 1930s was all across the country.

Harry Oliver was deemed the “father of the Storybook style.” It was he who put this playful architectural genre on the map. He was one of the talented artists lured by movie work to Hollywood. There he became a celebrated art director on numerous silent films, working often with superstars Mary Pickford and Douglas Fairbanks.

The style was the inspiration for a young Walt Disney, then a small-time animator living in Los Feliz, CA. The old Disney studios on Hyperion Avenue were in the neighborhood of a well-known storybook enclave, now known as “Disney Court,” that predated the studio. It was seen by many Disney background artists on their way to work, including Walt. It’s likely that this community was the inspiration for the background art in early Disney work.

The Storybook style homes share many characteristics with their contemporaries. But Storybooks are exaggerated and joyful and not meant to be taken so seriously. The idea behind the style draws on a wistfulness for the past and vernacular European styles. Storybooks incorporate an eclectic variety of styles for effect, along with a flair for theater, love of fine craftsmanship, and a sense of humor. The houses are typically quaint, often a bit smaller, and are full of personality. Much of a building’s Storybook character is expressed in the roof design. Often designed to appear thatched

with undulating and uneven shingles applied in waving patterns, they are typically steeply pitched. Multiple gables and rolled or pointed eaves, are accented with turrets and dovecotes capped with conical roofs.

It’s no wonder that we all love the Storybook style of architecture. We grew up with fairy tales, yes? They help us, as children, to understand the world around us. It’s how we came to know what virtue is and what vices are. Preschool experts say that fairy tales are important because they allow children to experience things in their minds before they experience them in the real world. There’s no doubt that Peter Pan and Pinocchio shaped my world view. I have kept two little figures on my desk for all of my career in real estate. Pinocchio, so I never consider telling a lie, and Mickey Mouse, to remind me that I can make magic happen.

“Fairy Tales can come true; it can happen to you….”

Jeff Lavine, a REALTOR with Keller Williams Real Estate, has been leading the industry since 1984. Jeff and his team can be reached at his office, 215-340-5700 x222, his cell. 215-280-2750 or website www. PropertyinBucksCounty.com. The Roaming Realtor appears weekly on Facebook.

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Contributing Writers

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Natalya Bucuy • Julie Druzak

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James Lamb • Jeff Lavine • Ariel Mann

Patrick Mencel • Sally Miller • Sarah Peters

Dana Roberts • Nicolas and Stephen Servis Ashara Shapiro • Jamie Stem • Edie Weinstein

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Entire contents of this publication is copyright 2022 The Doylestown Cardinal, LLC. all rights reserved and may not be reproduced in any manner, in whole or in part, without written permission from the publisher.

By Jeff Lavine

Byers Choice Continues to Bring Christmas Cheer Year-Round

By Natalya Bucuy The Cardinal Contributing Writer

When Frank Bristow, a Doylestown native, went to London a few years ago, he stopped at a local gift shop. To his surprise and delight, he saw some familiar faces at the store - Bucks County’s own Byers’ Choice Carolers.

The story of Byers’ Choice is as warm and cozy as the Christmas displays its Carolers adorn in people’s homes around the world. In the 1960s, Joyce Byers, an amateur artist with a degree in fashion design, found disappointing holiday decorations in stores. Since she couldn’t find anything worthy of creating Christmas memories for her family, she decided to take matters into her own hands.

There at the Byers’ kitchen table, she crafted her very first Caroler doll. Her Caroler holiday decor that year received praise from friends and relatives. Soon, Joyce, her husband Bob, and two sons would make the dolls together every autumn to give as gifts and deliver to local craft stores to be sold. “Every year, the house would be a total wreck, and I’d say that we’re never doing this again!” Joyce recalls. Yet, in 1978 the Byers family hired their first employee and officially started the now world-famous business.

Since then, Byers’ Choice has enjoyed quite a following. For over 40 years, its fine-crafted figurines have been warming the homes and the hearts of many people both locally and worldwide. “I got my first Byers’ Caroler, a young girl in a mint green nightgown, in celebration of the first Christmas of my newborn daughter, in 1985,” says local writer Ellen Jarvis. “That little girl is still on display yearround in my Byers Doll House.”

“It’s really been amazing to see how a kitchen table handcraft can grow into a favorite holiday decoration that is displayed and enjoyed in homes all across the country,” says Jeff Byers, 55. He still helps run the business with his parents and brother, Bob. “We always say that mom’s hobby has gotten a little out of control,” he jokes.

Through the years, the company adapted to many changes happening around it. Much of the business has remained the same, as the dolls are still hand-made by talented craftsmen. The internet helped raise brand awareness, and the interest in the Carolers grew. The family adjusted the production scale to accommodate, and Byers’ choice continues to grow today.

“Exciting stories and new designs that once took months to share with our end customers through paper catalogs,

mail, trade shows, sales reps, and our retailer partners can now be shared with everyone in seconds,” Jeff Byers says.

“One advantage of all this technology is it has allowed Byers’ Choice to have a much closer relationship with the people who love our products.”

And closer relationships with its customers and employees is what the company is all about. “We have been so blessed to have such a nice group of people to work with every day” Jeff Byers says. “Many of the artisans that make the Carolers have been with the company for over twenty years. It feels like an extended family.”

Byers’ Choice is more than its crafts, it’s a destination. The Visitors Center Christmas Gallery and Museum on County Line Road features festive Christmas displays inhabited by hundreds of Carolers and Kindles. Gift Emporium offers the widest variety of Byers’ Choice products anywhere. And the Observation Deck gives visitors a peek into the behind-the-scenes production floor.

“There is so much to see here at Byers’ Choice,” Jeff Byers says. “Don’t miss the Old English Street walking tour, Caroler Christmas Displays, History Room, handcrafted Nativity Collection from all over the world, and our fabulous gift shop. The grounds around the Gallery are also worth exploring, with beautiful gardens, fountains, and sculptures. It’s free to visit us and take a self-guided tour this holiday season. It’s a great place to bring the whole family for some Christmas cheer!”

And while it surely is, some visitors cannot wait until December to visit Byers Choice. That includes Kathy Trauger Butrica of Buckingham. “I go on July 25th every year in the blazing hot summer,” she says. “It just makes me feel so good. And then Christmas is only 6 months away.”

And now the season is here, and Byers’ Choice puts another year of successful operations under its belt. Beautiful Christmas displays will welcome guests at the Visitor’s Center in Chalfont. A special treat for the fans of Charles Dickens - Gerald Dickens, greatgreat-grandson of Charles Dickens, will perform “A Christmas Carol” live on stage on Dec. 10 and 11.

“We believe in traditions and the power of the Christmas season. It’s been an honor to keep these traditions alive and well,” Jeff Byers says. And “tradition” is exactly what Joyce Byers had in mind as she sat down to make her very first Caroler at her kitchen table.

For more information visit, byerschoice.com.

Give The Gift Of Outdoor Adventure This Holiday Season TreeTrails Adventures at Phoenix Sport Club

Struggling to find the perfect gift for family and friends on your list and tired of worrying about whether they have one already or will it fit? TreeTrails Adventures has that perfect gift - the experience of creating life-long memories of climbing adventures in the trees with family and friends.

Gina Bertucci, spokesperson for TreeTrails, said “If you are trying to focus your giving on experiences instead of things, this is a perfect solution. There is nothing more beautiful than seeing the forest from up in the trees. Climbing is a unique gift that changes as the seasons change.”

The TreeTrails holiday ticket packs offers savings of up to 35 percent on two, four and ten packs that you can give to one person or share. For the real adventure seeker on your list, they also offer adult or junior Season Passes. If you are not sure which to get, you can always purchase a gift card in any amount that fits your budget.

“Come climb now and do your holiday shopping at the same time. We added night climbing which has been well received. What better way is there to do your shopping while having a great day or night out in nature? The best part of all - you won’t have lots of bags to carry back to your car. Gift packs fit right in your pocket,” said Bertucci.

The main attraction at TreeTrails Adventures provides climbers ages 7 and up with six trails that include bridges, netted tunnels, gliding rides and zip lines that span between trees. These challenges – or elements – are made of cable, rope, and wood. The trails are color coded by the degree of challenge they provide. Yellow trails are 10 to 12 feet above the forest floor and trail height progressively increases with green, blue, and black trails – which are at

points 50 feet above the ground. In addition to getting higher, trails increasingly tax balance, strength, stamina, nerve, and problemsolving.

KidTrails offers many of the same elements found in the main park, but built less than three feet off the ground and to scale for the stride and reach of climbers ages 4 – 7. This enables guardians to walk next to children offering encouragement.

Before climbing in the main park or KidTrails, guests are outfitted with climbing gear and go through an equipment briefing and practice before starting their two-hour climbing adventure. Bertucci continued, “So you don’t have to worry if they have never climbed before. We provide the equipment and training for their tree experience.”

TreeTrails is open weekends and holidays through the end of December. Private and group climbs are offered throughout the winter. For information visit TreeTrails.com.

Between Friends Outreach: Making Sure Everyone Feels Heard and Seen

By Sarah Peters The Cardinal Contributing Writer

What is Between Friends Outreach?

Between Friends Outreach is a nonprofit “on a mission to change lives.”

Tara Stoop founded this inspirational organization seven years ago in honor of her friend Jerry. She and Jerry had often spoken about how they loved doing random acts of kindness and wanted to take that to the next level. When Jerry passed, Tara knew she had to act. So she applied for her non-profit status, and Between Friends Outreach was born.

Stoop started in her living room with minimal resources. She saw friends, family, and community members who were experiencing housing insecurity, food insecurity, domestic violence, or low income while trying to navigate a broken system. Armed with this knowledge and her drive to make a difference, Tara got right to work.

In addition to supporting Central Bucks community members in these needs, Between Friends Outreach works to provide resources to prevent homelessness and assist clients transitioning out of homelessness. They provide groceries through their food pantry. They also provide education to their clients and support them long-term.

How Does BFO Work?

Their program begins with an in-depth intake form and screening for drug or medical issues, so clients can seek treatment, if needed, first. Then, the staff listens to clients’ needs before deciding what services to offer them. Next, they teach life skills to ensure a smooth transition and steps in the right

direction.

In recent months, BFO has hyperfocused on helping the local community here in Central Bucks - where many don’t realize the significant need for a program like this. BFO’s volume of clients has grown considerably due to inflation and increased rent costs.

It has been a constant struggle to find affordable housing and keep tenants in apartments because of the rising prices in the current market. Stoop and her team are doing all they can to make sure their clients feel heard, seen, and receive support, even in these more trying times.

How Can We Help?

BFO’s Angel Trees program is one of the main ways community members can get involved. It allows individuals and businesses to donate toys, clothing, and many other items. BFO also accepts gift cards up until a week before Christmas.

This exceptionally difficult year left many families’ funds depleted. These gift cards will go further than ever. Donations are also excepted on BFO’s website, www.bfoutreach.net, and via Venmo @BFO-Outreach. Look for a signup link on the website for any lastminute items that may still be needed.

The website is also a good place to look for volunteer opportunities. These include sorting gifts and assisting incoming clients with pick-up. The second week of December is a busy time for the organization and requires additional volunteers.

We’re so grateful for Tara, her team, and the incredible volunteers at BFO for everything they do for our community. What an impact they’re making on families in need this holiday season.

cardinal chirps

Christmas in Doylestown

A Local Tradition “Since 1992”

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Doylestown, sponsors their 27th Annual Christmas in Doylestown House Tour on Friday and Saturday, Dec. 2 & 3. One half of the profits from the event are donated to the Bucks County Housing Group to support the Doylestown Homeless Shelter.

Ticket holders can tour four decorated Doylestown borough homes and enjoy Tea at the church parish hall. There is free admission to the parish hall where there will be a fully stocked Bake Table featuring St. Paul’s famous butter cookies.

There are four fabulous houses on this year’s tour with 2 on the east side of town and 2 on the west side of town. Additional information on the houses and a map can be found on the church website: https://www. stpaulsdoylestown.org/cid-2022.

Tour Hours: Friday evening, December 2nd 5-9pm and Saturday, December 3rd 11am – 3pm. Snow date is December 4th 1-5pm.

Tickets: Advance tickets will be on sale Nov 7-30 for $40 and may be purchased at the parish office M-F 10 am to 4 pm, at the Doylestown Bookstore or online at https:// www.stpaulsdoylestown.org/cid-2022.

Tickets on tour days are $45.

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church: 84 E. Oakland Ave., Doylestown 215-348-5511

Go Shopping In The Bucks County Playhouse Closet

The costume department at Bucks County Playhouse will open its wardrobe room for a holiday sale — offering a wide collection of festive frocks, and everyday ready-to-wear clothing, for sale to the public on Saturday, December 3 from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. A special invitation only preview night will be on Friday, December 2.

The holiday clearance, which will be held at Bucks County Playhouse (70 S. Main Street, New Hope), features brandnew garments (many with original price tags) as well as gently used clothing for both men and women. The high-drama,

appropriately festive rummage sale is an opportunity to pick up unusual wardrobe pieces for the holidays while supporting the Playhouse as it clears out its closets in preparation for the new year.

Also featured in the sale are dozens of unused boots, which were sourced for its recent production of “Kinky Boots” as well as some of the flamboyant and fabulous clothing featured in the show.

“I am over the moon to be able to coordinate this pop-up sale for the Playhouse,” says Sally Weisman, event coordinator and member of the Playhouse Artists Board. “There are so many fabulous finds and unique treasures that are being offered for sale. If you’re looking for something fun and unusual, the sale is a great opportunity to find that special Christmas gift for someone or the perfect dress to wear to your next holiday party.”

Potential customers are invited to follow the Playhouse’s social media for photos of some of the clothing and costumes expected to be available for sale.

Child Care Center Opens in Doylestown

Vámonos Childcare, an early learning education and preschool center opened its fourth location in Doylestown.

Existing locations in Warrington, Warminster and Horsham all offer child care for infants, and toddlers all the way to pre-kindergarten as well as before and after school care for school-age children up to 12 years old. In addition to providing reliable childcare services that families know and love all over Bucks County, the Doylestown location will offer kindergarten.

“Vámonos has always been about exposing children to diverse experiences and education from a young age,” said Emily Vonder Schmalz, the co-owner and Bucks County native. “Both English and Spanish are incorporated into the curriculum because I saw firsthand how much it helped my own children acquire critical social skills, embrace those who are different from them and model

inclusivity.”

The family-owned multi-center provider opened its doors on Tuesday, Nov. 1 at 5151 Coldspring Creamery Road, Doylestown

Vámonos Childcare is accepting new enrollments for children ages 6 weeks through 12 years old for daycare, preschool, pre-k, and kindergarten (Doylestown location). It offers transportation, before/ after care, summer camp, enrichment programs and more. Subsidy is accepted.

More at http://vamonoschildcare.com.

Mercer Museum Awarded Grant from Institute of Museum and Library Services

The Mercer Museum, operated by the Bucks County Historical Society (BCHS), announced that it has received a grant to improve the care, management, and cataloging of 500 artifacts installed in its 1916 historic Central Court.

The museum was the recipient of an $111,907.00 matching grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), a federal agency, in 2022 as part of IMLS’ Museums for America grant program which will support the Mercer Museum’s aim of preserving and providing access to the collections entrusted to its care.

The grant will allow the museum to fully perform an inventory, clean, catalog, and assess the condition of objects that are free-standing and suspended from the ceilings and mezzanines of the Mercer Museum’s historic Central Court. Beginning in November 2022, a hydraulic lift will be used to survey the artifacts hanging in the core of the Mercer Museum – unreachable otherwise from the ground. The survey is anticipated to be completed of 2024.

During this time, the grant project team will photograph these artifacts and collections, assess lighting conditions, and conduct historical and contextual research to inform future museum planning and enhancing the knowledge of museum staff and guests. In the future, data about the Central Court artifacts could enhance visitor engagement through an online catalog, as well as in person at the museum.

Henry Mercer’s unusual presentation of artifacts “wowed” visitors in 1916 when the museum opened, and Mercer’s vision continues to evoke surprise, awe, and curiosity among modern visitors. By thoroughly documenting and assembling historical information on the nearly 500 artifacts in the museum’s core, this project works toward satisfying this curiosity and addressing any gaps in knowledge regarding the artifacts.

The Bucks County Historical Society’s Vice President of Collections and Interpretation Cory Amsler notes, “This project will enable the museum to more fully document the Central Court collections, perform comprehensive upclose photography, and point us towards new and creative methods for delivering

this content to future guests.”

The Mercer Museum project was one of 120 projects nationwide funded through IMLS’ Museums for America grant program in 2022. Of these 120 grants, only eight were for projects in Pennsylvania. The matching portion of the Mercer Museum grant, $112,504.00, is being supported by community contributions and the museum’s operating funds.

The Institute of Museum and Library Services is the primary source of federal support for the nation’s libraries and museums. They advance, support, and empower America’s museums, libraries, and related organizations through grantmaking, research, and policy development.

Makers Off Main is Growing

Be among the first to check out the incredible new spaces at Makers Off Main, filled with handmade gifts made by your local friends and neighbors. Pop in and shop from eight expanded maker booths in the second half of the store!

The new booths include locally made wreaths, home decor, candles, art prints, and much more. Products at Makers Off Main are hand made by over 100 artists and crafters, all located within an hour of Bucks County. Visit them Tuesday-Sunday from 11:00am-5:00pm.

Video History Series: Salute to Service

The Doylestown Historical Society is proud to offer continuing programming in our Video History Series of local citizens. We are proud to present “Salute to Service” with United States service veteran, Ron Gentile as he recounts his service to his country serving two tours of duty in Vietnam, and his past and current service to the Doylestown community. This is the first video in our “Salute to Service” series featuring veteran citizens of Doylestown who have served their country and their community.

Please join this very special reception and video screening at the Albert Atkinson American Legion Post, 315 North Street, Doylestown, PA 18901, Saturday, December 3, 2022 with a wine reception from 5:00-5:30, preceding the 5:30 premiere. A short Q&A session with Ron will follow. Tickets can be purchased for $15 at the Doylestown Historical Society, or at the door for $20.

The Doylestown Historical Society sincerely thanks our anonymous sponsor for their generosity in presenting this film and screening event, and for preserving the stories of our history for all to know, share, and remember.

The Doylestown Historical Society website offers many video histories of local citizens from Mike Pettine, Central Bucks West football coach to James Michener, author, and many impactful Doylestown citizens.

For more information visit www. doylestownhistorical.org or call 215-345-9430.

The Doylestown Historical Society 56 S. Main Street Doylestown Pa 18901

Lights Camera Acting: Where Every Kid Has a Chance to Shine

By Jules from @FortheLoveofDoylestown The Cardinal Contributing Writer

Lights Camera Acting has been welcoming acting students in New Britain for 14 years. Now, as owner Aviva Meyrowitz grows her business to double its size, the second chapter of her business begins.

Meyrowitz experienced the magic of theater firsthand. As a girl, she was incredibly shy and barely opened her mouth when she spoke. At the age of ten, while at sleep-away camp, she sang a song in front of an audience. She was surprised to realize she had survived the stress of stage fright. The powerful feeling of getting to the other side of fear inspired her to keep going. Acting became her passion.

Meyrowitz received her theater degree at Rutgers University. She wrote her own shows and performed in classical theater, musicals, and comedies. She went on to receive her master’s degree in elementary education.

Early on, Aviva tried her hand at an acting career in New York. Through that endeavor of an aspiring actor, she felt a tag of her inner voice. She felt like her calling was something different. Enter Sam Meyrowitz. Aviva’s mom set them up, and they soon fell in love and eventually moved to Bucks County.

Here, Aviva got a job working at a private school and teaching kindergarten. Her leadership and teaching skills landed her a position in charge of a theater program. That’s when she realized her calling: to help children shine.

With her tiny baby Lilah in tow, Aviva rented a table at the Del Val fair and advertised her new business: Lights Camera Acting. She made posters and confidently advertised, but she didn’t even have the space for her new company yet. She just knew that this was what she was meant to do and had faith in herself and in her calling. That weekend, Aviva received 600 emails from interested parents. Lights Camera Acting was born.

“It was a big risk. It was scary to leave a teaching job and not do what was considered typical,” she says. “My one friend warned me that I needed to really know what I was doing in order to start my own business.” But Meyrowitz knew that she could do it. And she sure did. Today, many students come back to work at the school once they graduate.

LCA started out with summer camps. Its New Britain locations then added classes for kids of all ages. Today, the office space next door serves as an extension to the school. Over 275 kids will enroll in the winter session’s 33 classes.

The goal is simple - to make kids feel amazing and to provide a safe space for them to be the best humans they can be. The environment is non-competitive and each kid has a chance to shine.

Offerings include on-camera classes like the Filmmakers class. There, kids write, direct, and act in their own short films. In the Acting on Camera class they learn the subtle art of film acting. They also offer a variety of genres of acting at the studio, including classes in improvisation, musical theater, acting, dance for actors, stage combat, and more. The youngest stars get to stretch their imaginations in classes like Story Stars. LCA is also bringing back their one-of-a-kind birthday parties where your child can have a party

experience with their friends.

It is clear that Aviva loves her team, and her team loves her. Elyssa Barberio, director of operations, raves about the leadership skills and moral character of Aviva. Kira Coviello, self-described “super special princess,” and company management has been by Aviva’s side for six years. Aviva cannot say enough about her staff. “The universe, in terms of this business, has always sent me exactly what I needed when I needed it. Especially the people. What we are doing here is very important, and the staff and teachers care just as much as I do. They are full of passion and creativity. Everybody gets the culture of caring.”

The school is honoring the memory of their beloved student, Madeleine Antunes, who unexpectedly passed away, by naming the new LCA film studio after her. They have also started Maddie’s Sunshine Scholarship Fund, which will help with tuition costs for families who have suffered trauma, loss, or financial difficulties.

Lights Camera Acting is located at 944 Town Center in New Britain. Visit the school’s website at www.lcacting.com

Cardinal contributor Jules lives in Doylestown with her husband, son and two rescue dogs. In her spare time, she enjoys performing with her improv troupe The Department of Lost Socks, singing for the Bucks County Choral Society and acting in local shows.

Pictured from Left to Right: Kira Coviello (company manager), Aviva Meyrowitz (owner and operator) and Elyssa Barberio (director of studio operations)

Art Crosses All Divides - An ArtWRKD Spotlight

By Ashara Shapiro Special to The Cardinal

Art is a necessary and beautiful idea. It is an act of expression, rebellion, time capsule, and honor. It is a process to allow the advancement of beliefs and memorializes evolution. Art is universal. It spans all languages, experiences, and ages. It doesn’t concern itself with culture except to live and embrace it.

Art can carry a lofty stigma. Some proclaim with a deft tongue what is and is not art as if they were given a big role. I have always entered the art space as one who reacts or does not react to the work. If I respond and get lost in the piece, then to me, it is my type of art. What I appreciate.

This idea of basing arts “value” on how it speaks to me personally is the best way I can think to qualify what is valuable. The feeling of being washed over by its message, incredible beauty, or deep emotional response. Looking at art in that way also breaks down the idea that you have to have a particular home or experience to own an artist’s work.

It is from this place that the curation of Newtown’s new ArtWRKD gallery was done. I invited artists that were doing work that profoundly spoke to me. Every time I walk into the space, I feel the energy behind their work, their intention and their motivation.

The gallery is an eclectic mix of mediums, cultures, backgrounds, societal comments, and appreciation for the world around us. It is as varied as we are, offering visual art, wearable art, and functional art. I am driven by accessibility.

I am fighting the sterility of some gallery spaces and inviting patrons to a warm and tangible space. Here, you can meet the artists, watch them work, and see the messy workbench of mid-creation. Here, you ask questions. Here, you can find a respite from the bustling day. Here, art really is life.

ArtWRKD Gallery is open to the public Monday 10-4 • Thursday and Friday 10-7 • Saturday 10-4 • Sunday by Private Appointment 126 South State Street Floor Two, Newtown. 215.377.9766

Local Spotlight with Danielle: Newtown Singer / Songwriter, Capri Wagner Newtown

By Danielle Gannon The Cardinal Contributing Writer

I had the true pleasure of meeting local singer/ songwriter Capri Wagner.

Capri grew up in Newtown, PA and is a graduate of Council Rock North High School. She went onto Bucks Community College and graduated from Temple University with a Bachelor’s degree in Recreational Therapy, also known as Therapeutic Recreation.

Her true passions are helping others, singing, writing music, playing instruments, and spending time with those she loves. She started singing as early as 1.5 years old. Singing in front of her family and stuffed animals just to scratch the itch that was growing inside of her, her entire life.

Capri is the oldest of three children. She has three brothers: Kristian, Kyle and Dominic. Her mother Cheryl and father John raised them in a very close knit suburban household and centered their lives on the growth of their children. This allowed each one to walk their path and follow the spirit inside of them placed by God.

In February of 2022, God had a different plan for her father, John W. Wagner. He passed suddenly from natural causes. This caused Capri and her family overwhelming heartbreak and an uncertainty for what was to come.

Capri took her love for writing and poured her heart into a beautiful song, My Angel, produced by Michael Birchard. It dropped on April 7, 2022, which also happens to be Capri’s birthday. She felt the timing of it would be a continual marker and celebration of her life as well as her father’s.

The song & melody were written by Capri and it has since caught quite the attention. Singer Ne-Yo has shared and pushed her song out to fans on his social media, creating a lot of hype around the heartfelt lyrics and something Capri is still pinching herself in appreciation today.

She has many other songs and interactions with celebrities who have inspired her along her journey. Kelly Clarkson and Glamour Magazine recognized her talent on YouTube which you can search. She has also been inspired by listening to artists such as Britny Spears, Avril Lavigne, Michael Jackson, and Justin Bieber to name a few.

Currently she works as a recreational therapist assisting disabled children thru different virtual and in person musical methods.

She would love to sing locally and continue pursuing her musical career. She sees herself as a Pop artist and she hopes to relate to others going through the same or similar loss.

“I want to see what God’s plan is for me. I can’t help but feel I am meant to be in music somehow. If there’s something you truly love, follow it. You will go far”, says Capri Wagner

Visit her on IG: @capri.wagner

Danielle Gannon is a local Bucks County entrepreneur. Mom to three, she is co-owner of Organnons Natural Market and Founder & Managing Director of Local Spotlight with Danielle. Her passion is connecting people and creating community. Residing in Ivyland, writing has always been a passion of hers. Find her on IG @localspotlightwithdanielle

Capri Wagner (left) with Cardinal Writer Danielle Gannon

McCafferty’s NBA Holiday Parade

This parade is a huge event that continues to provide a magical experience for the whole community. Hosted each year by the Newtown Business Association, it is a great opportunity for local businesses to get involved and for families to line the streets to watch a spectacular event. In past years over 50 groups have participated, totaling over 1,800 participants. Come out and find a comfy spot to watch this amazing eventFree to Spectators.

Edmonson. Edmonson’s Holiday Swingin’! album was included on the NY Times list of “13 Albums That Revisit (and Redefine) Holiday Classics” and was described by Jazziz as “impeccably hip”. “I was inspired to record music that harkened back to my favorite ‘50s and ‘60s holiday tunes. The band and I had a ball swingin’ on all these classic songs,” says Kat.

Tickets start at $25.00 and have a VIP ticket pre-show option including complimentary beverages, light fare and reserved seats. All Tickets Include Free Parking at www.bucks.edu/tickets

Midnight Madness Shopping Event

Midnight Madness is in Newtown, on State St., December 9th. All participating shops will stay open until midnight that evening for a fun, holiday shopping experience.

Spend your evening on State Street and sprinkle on your Holiday Spirit! Do some shopping, grab a bite to eat and have a cocktail.

French Bakery Brings Melt-In-Your- Mouth Croissants To Newtown

A mouth-watering taste of France has arrived in the heart of Newtown Borough with the opening of Maime Colette.

The brand new artisan bakery specializing in French viennoiserie opened for business on November 8 next to the Fine Wine and Good Spirits store in Newtown Borough.

The bakery is operated by French-born Chef Magali and her sidekick in life and in business, Isabelle. While Isabelle operates the business side, Chef Magali is in charge of the kitchen and making the bakery’s signature croissants.

The freshly-baked croissants are made from scratch on premises by Magali who learned the art of baking from her grandmother, Maime Colette, whose name and picture now grace the new business.

45 Home Toll Brothers Development Approved In Newtown Township

Coming Events

Come on out to Newtown this month for some fun events! Full of history and pride, this town has a lot to offer each and every day or the week.

Ongoing Newtown Farmers Market 2150 South Eagle Road in Newtown 9am - 6pm Contact: 215-860-8821 https://newtownfarmersmarket.com

December 2 - 11

Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella (Broadway Version) Newtown Theatre

120 North State Street in Newtown

This is a production of the Newtown Arts Company. Questions? Call the Newtown Arts Company at 215-860-7058 or email tickets@newtownartscompany.com

Through December 16

The parade promptly kicks off at 2PM on December 4th from South State Street at the Stocking Works. It then continues north to Washington Avenue and makes a left turn, then turns right onto Sycamore Street, ending at the corner of Sycamore St. and Durham Rd.

ZLOCK Performing Arts Center presents “A Holiday Swingin’! A Kat Edmonson Christmas”

On Saturday, December 17th, the ZLOCK Performing Arts Center (ZPAC) presents a unique, one-night-only Live Holiday Concert “A Holiday Swingin’! A Kat Edmonson Christmas” with AwardWinning Jazz Vocalist and Songwriter, Kat

Shops taking part include: ProShop, ArtWRKD, Newtown Hardware, Giovanni’s Shop for Men, Countryside Framing, Strada and Blossom. Even more that aren’t listed.

Support our local neighbors, friends and business. We are NEWTOWN!

The Newtown Township Board of Supervisors on Nov. 9 approved preliminary as final land development plans by Toll Brothers to build 45 single family homes at Route 413 and Twining Bridge Road.

The homes will be built on a 22 acre site that had been part of the 158 acre All Saints Cemetery property. The plan also includes the preservation of about 98 acres of open space adjoining the Newtown Township municipal complex on Durham Road, which will be dedicated to the township.

The development will take access to Route 413 at an existing signalized intersection at the entrance to the Newtown Grant at North Drive.

Karl Carter A Retrospective Exhibition

Hicks Art Center Gallery, 275 Swamp Road, Bucks County Community College in Newtown. Contact: 215-968-8432 www.bucks.edu/culture/hicks

December 31

Newtown Theatre’s Annual New Year’s Eve Comedy Show! Newtown Theatre

120 North State Street in Newtown

Doors: 9:00 PM 1 Admission 2 Drinks

Before Show A Great Show Champaign

Toast Ball Drop A Happy & Healthy 2023! Admission $70.00 Day of $55.00 $5.00 from each ticket will be donated to the Newtown Theatre.

By Edie Weinstein Special to The Cardinal

Life turns on a dime, as it did for then eight-year-old Maggie Meyers on Sept. 7, 2017. Her beloved uncle Gerry Grandzol had been shot and killed by carjackers as he was coming home from Fairmount Park. There he had taken his two-year-old daughter and their dog to play frisbee.

In the midst of their grief, Maggie and her family made a valiant decision to transform their horror into healing for others. They sought a way of honoring Meyers’ uncle. He was a community activist and a big-hearted person. Gerry was also known for his love of fun and creative socks.

For Love of Socks came to be after attendees at Jerry’s funeral wore colorful socks in his memory. Cathleen Grandzol, Gerry’s sister, tells me “He would wear a formal suit with fun socks.”

Maggie says, “It started with my mom because she planted the seed in my head after the funeral.” The idea was to collect socks to donate to people who couldn’t

afford clean, comfortable, and colorful foot warmers. They partnered with Mitzvah Circle to distribute the many thousands of socks they have collected since 2018. This is the 6th collection since Gerry’s death.

Cathleen has a simple explanation for what unfolded. “In this traumatic crazy time, the community came together to offer support,” she says. The experience has been beneficial for her now adolescent daughter. “It has been a good thing for Maggie since it has helped her learn to speak to adults.”

events calendar

COUNTY THEATRE

WWW.COUNTYTHEATRE.ORG

December 1 • 7:00pm

Carol December 3 • 10:30am

A Christmas Story

December 3 • 1:00pm

La voix humaine

December 8 • 7:00pm

Christmas in Connecticut

December 10 • 10:30am

The Grinch

December 11 • 1:30pm

Much Ado About Nothing

December 17 • 10:30am

The Polar Express

ONGOING

THROUGH JANUARY 8

GINGERBREAD COMPETITION & DISPLAY

Peddlers Village

The Gingerbread Competition and Display is a feast for the eyes, with more than 75 creative and whimsical entries crafted by the public in different categories. The Gingerbread entries will be on display from November 18 through January 8, 2023. Admission is free. peddlersvillage.com

WEDNESDAY • NOVEMBER 30

FIVE SECRETS TO LOWERING YOUR BLOOD SUGAR NATURALLY. Seats are limited. For PA/NJ residents only. Sponsored by Foundation for Wellness Professionals. Call Lachman and Associates to RSVP at (267) 406-0782. 11/30 12:00pm 1pm EST (virtual event)

DECEMBER 1 – 17

A VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS AT JAMES-LORAH

132 North Main Street, Doylestown

The Birthplace of Henry Mercer welcomes you with more than ten separate exhibition areas - each decked out for an unforgettable Victorian Christmas! See antique ornaments and toys, including a hand-built 19th Century dollhouse. Learn about customs surrounding the Christmas holidays in Victorian Times. Marvel at ornate furnishings belonging to three generations of the James and Lorah Families, including beautiful period gowns once worn by Miss Sarah M. James. Cost $14.36. All tickets must be reserved in advance at AVictorianChristmas.eventbrite.com

THURSDAY • DECEMBER 1

LIVE HOLIDAY MUSIC WITH SHALON MUKAMURI

Doylestown Bookshop 6:00 pm

The businesses of downtown Doylestown are thrilled to announce coordinated late-night shopping in December. These shopping nights are geared toward adults and are designed to help with all of your holiday shopping needs. Come and enjoy the many unique shops, restaurants, and businesses that make Doylestown so very special!

The Doylestown Bookshop will be offering refreshments and is thrilled to welcome back local musician Shalom Mukamuri, who will be performing live Holiday music. Learn more online doylestownbookshop.com/event/

THURSDAY • DECEMBER 1

Holiday Hustle Peddlers Village 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm

Grab a Santa hat, ugly sweater, or elf costume and join hundreds of jolly runners and walkers of all ages and abilities for our 3rd Annual Holiday Hustle under the lights! Events include a 2-mile run/jog/walk, and 1-mile run/jog/walk. More information can be found at peddlersvillage.com

FRIDAY • DECEMBER 2

CREATIVE READING BOOK CLUB

Lahaska Bookshop 1:00 pm

There will be a discussion revolving around informative fiction and non-fiction. Although the group consists mainly of “matured” adults, folks of all ages are welcome. Meetings will be on the second or first Friday of every month. Please contact Daniel at daniel@lahaskabookshop.com for more information.

Discussing: The World Played Chess by Robert Dugoni doylestownbookshop.com/event

FRIDAY • DECEMBER 2

GIRLS EMPOWERED MIDDLE SCHOOL BOOK CLUB

Doylestown Bookshop 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm

The Girls Empowered Middle School Book Club is a great opportunity for teenage girls to discuss a relatable book, engage in empowerment activities, and make new friends.

Discussing: Hello Universe by Erin Estrada Kelly doylestownbookshop.com/event

SATURDAY • DECEMBER 3

MIND MASTERY BOOK CLUB

Doylestown Bookshop 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm Meets the first Saturday of each month!

Discussing: Living Untethered by Michael A Singer doylestownbookshop.com/event

SATURDAY • DECEMBER 3

A SALUTE TO SERVICE

The Doylestown Historical Society

The Albert Atkinson American Legion Post, 315 North Street, Doylestown, PA 18901 5:00 pm

The US service veteran Ron Gentile recounts his service to his country, serving two tours of duty in Vietnam, and his past and current service to the Doylestown community. The “Salute to Service” series features veteran citizens of Doylestown, who have served their country and their community. Please join us as we enjoy this very special reception and video screening. Tickets are $20 at the door.

WEDNESDAY • DECEMBER 7

FIVE SECRETS TO LOWERING YOUR BLOOD SUGAR NATURALLY. Lunch will be provided. Seats are limited. Sponsored by Foundation for Wellness Professionals. Call Lachman and Associates to RSVP at (267) 406-0782. 1432 Easton Rd. Warrington. 12:30pm 1:30pm

Local collection sites include:

Le Macron, The Marketplace, Starbucks at Main and State, Impact Hair Salon, Soak Spa and Sanctuary in Doylestown, Round Guy’s Brewery in Lansdale, and The Hickory Stick in Perkasie. Maggie and her mom would love it if other local businesses would be willing to accept socks. Then, individuals, community groups, faith communities, and companies would donate them.

The organization also has an Amazon wish list so that folks can donate there as well.

Maggie and Cathleen offer this expression of gratitude, “Thank you for helping us

warm hearts by warming feet.” Somewhere, I imagine a man with a 1000-watt smile beaming at his sister and niece, toes wiggling in vibrantly hued socks.

Edie Weinstein, MSW, LSW is a licensed social worker, psychotherapist, interfaith minister, journalist, speaker, PR and marketing professional and the grandmother of two wonderful children, who we are teaching to be kind.

Joanne Petrun was born and raised in Doylestown, and is mom to 3 littles (8, 6 and 3). She works in the Pharmaceutical field.

Please Send Your Calendar Listings To: Jess@DoylestownCardinal.com

TUES. - WED. • DECEMBER 13 & 14

ADULT HOLIDAY COOKIE DECORATING NIGHT

Peddlers Village 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm

The highly anticipated holiday cookie night is back. Come into Sweet Occasions for a fun, relaxing evening of cookie baking and decorating! We’ve done all the hard work ahead of time involving preparation. More information at peddlersvillage.com

THURSDAY • DECEMBER 15

LIVE HOLIDAY MUSIC WITH SHALON MUKAMURI

Doylestown Bookshop 6:00 pm

THURSDAY • DECEMBER 8

PRACTICAL FORAGING: WINTER LIP BALM WORKSHOP

Peace Valley Park 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm

We will take a foraging walk around the property to identify local wild plants that support general health and well-being, as well as go over-drying methods so we can use those plants year-round. Then, we will head back to the center to create our lip balms that soothe and moisten dry, cracked winter skin! The first portion of the event will take place outside. Please dress according to the weather. Registration online peacevalleynaturecenter.org

SATURDAY • DECEMBER 10

LOCAL AUTHOR EXPO

Doylestown Bookshop 11:00 am – 3:00 pm

Join us on Saturday, Dec. 10, from 11-3:00 PM pm for the Doylestown Bookshop’s Local Author Expo, where we will showcase a variety of the very best authors from our community. The many featured authors can be found online, alongside their time slots! https://www.doylestownbookshop.com/event

TUESDAY • DECEMBER 13

PHILOSOPHY BOOK CLUB

Lahaska Bookshop 12:00 pm

The Lahaska Bookshop invites you to join engaging discussions about philosophy and philosophers. The group meets in person on the 2nd Tuesday of every month at the Lahaska Bookshop for 2 hours at 12 Noon! Members of the club also meet via Zoom - also at noon! - on the other Tuesdays for an ongoing discussion. The discussions are guided by Jonathan Matas, who has 35 years of experience teaching philosophy to adult students. Discussing: ‘On Liberty and the Subjection of Women by John Stuart Mill, and ‘John Stuart Mill: A Very Short Introduction by Gregory Claeys, and ‘A Thousand Small Sanities: The Moral Adventure of Liberalism’ by Adam Gopnik. doylestownbookshop. com/event

TUESDAY • DECEMBER 13

FOUNDATION FOR WELLNESS EVENT

Are you in pain? Learn how others are avoiding surgery and throwing away their pain pills. Lunch provided. Seats are limited. Sponsored by Foundation for Wellness Professionals. Call Lachman and Associates to RSVP at (267) 406-0782. 1432 Easton Rd. Warrington.

WEDNESDAY • DECEMBER 14

FIVE SECRETS TO LOWERING YOUR BLOOD SUGAR NATURALLY. Seats are limited. For PA/NJ residents only. Sponsored by Foundation for Wellness Professionals. Call Lachman and Associates to RSVP at (267) 406-0782. 12:00pm - 1:00pm

The businesses of downtown Doylestown are thrilled to announce coordinated late-night shopping in December! These shopping nights are geared toward adults and are designed to help with all of your holiday shopping needs! Come and enjoy the many unique shops, restaurants, and businesses that make Doylestown so very special!

The Doylestown Bookshop will be offering refreshments and is thrilled to welcome back local musician Shalom Mukamuri, who will be performing LIVE Holiday music. Learn more online doylestownbookshop.com/event

THURSDAY • DECEMBER 15

SPIRITUALITY BOOK CLUB

Doylestown Bookshop 6:30 pm

Read and discuss books to expand and nurture your spiritual journey. Open to everybody.

Discussing: Grounded: Finding God in the World – A Spiritual Revolution by Diana Butler Bass doylestownbookshop.com/event

FRIDAY • DECEMBER 16

ALLISON GILBERT // LISTEN, WORLD!

Doylestown Bookshop 6:00 pm

Join us in welcoming award-winning journalist Allison Gilbert as she discusses and signs copies of Listen, World!, The first biography of Elsie Robinson, the most influential newspaper columnist you’ve never heard of. More information found online! doylestownbookshop.com/event

WEDNESDAY • DECEMBER 21

WINTER SOLSTICE HIKE

Peace Valley Park 10:00 am – 11:30 am

Join us for a hike to celebrate the promise of longer days. We’ll discover the myths and legends behind the shortest day of the year and end with a cup of hot cocoa. Adults only. Registration online. peacevalleynaturecenter.org

THURSDAY • DECEMBER 22

CHRISTMAS STORYTIME WITH ESTABAN, THE GREEN CRAYON! Doylestown Bookshop 6:00 pm

Join us for a special visit from Esteban, the Green Crayon! During this special storytime, we will read the newest Crayons book from Drew Daywalt and Oliver Jeffers - Green is for Christmas, along with activities for the kids. Don’t forget to bring your camera! This event is in partnership with Discover Doylestown. https://www.doylestownbookshop.com/event

compiled by Lily Appleby special thanks to BrittAroundTown.com

tasty tweets

Healthy Soul-Warming Comfort Foods Around Town

By Julie Druzak Special to The Cardinal

What do you think of when it comes to comfort food? For me, it’s my mom’s chicken soup, brisket, and kugel. We all have foods that take us back to feeling loved and reminiscent of childhood and culture. As the seasons change and it gets colder, we think of foods that warm up and fill us up with peace.

Comfort food speaks to our souls and makes us feel loved. That reminds me of a particular scene from the Disney movie Ratatouille. In the scene, Linguini, the chef, is trying to impress the food critic named Ego. Linguini decides to make ratatouille, and when Ego tastes the dish, it transforms him back to his childhood.  The scene depicts a small child, Ego, who has just fallen off his bike; his mom is mending his wounds and fills him with the love of a homemade dish, ratatouille.

After visiting a few of our local restaurants, I have found some wonderful foods that embody the essence of that comfort. One of my favorite places is Harper

and Penny’s in the Doylestown Marketplace. “Our goal has and will always be to give the town something they don’t normally get, a sort of introduction to other cultures that they may not normally be exposed to,” Harper says. One of the dishes the

Celery Root (Celeriac)

By Nicolas and Stephen Servis The Cardinal Contributing Writers

Iam almost positive that we have all seen celery root at the store and thought to ourselves, “my lord, what is that thing?” At first glance, celery root looks like it was made on Dr. Frankenstein’s table, but we promise you it is not that scary or intimidating.

Celeriac, better known as celery root, is a brown, ridged, softball-looking vegetable with pure white flesh. Fall, winter, and early spring mark the peak seasons for the vegetable. The cooler weather turns the starches into sugars after the ground frosts, giving the veggie a sweeter celery flavor with a consistency of a potato.

When it comes to selecting the perfect celeriac, the root veg should feel slightly heavy for its size, and it should lack any soft or mushy spots. If a store sells celeriac with

green tops that resemble celery stalks, make sure they are standing strong with a vibrant green color. A yellowish color and flimsy stalk usually indicate that the veggie is on its way out.

The preparation of celery root is fairly simple. All that is required is cutting away the off-colored brown, bumpy flesh on the outside with a sharp knife. That will reveal the creamy white inside. Celeriac can be eaten raw in salads, shaved into coleslaw, or pressed into a potato gratin. But its most common use is in soup.

Celery root soup is delicious. It’s quick and easy to make for families on the go. All that is required is a large sauce pot and a blender.

restaurant features this month is a Gumbo Pot Pie stuffed with andouille sausage, red beans, rice, shrimp, peppers, and onions.

Another one of my favorite places is Native Cafe, located right in the center of town. Jay and his wife Kate opened their doors right before the pandemic and have been flourishing ever since. Not only do they feature the best coffee and tea drinks in our town, but they have the most amazing food, a mixture of breakfast and Thai food.  My favorite go-to comfort food here is the bananas foster oatmeal. It features steel-cut oats in a butter rum caramel sauce topped with sliced bananas and toasted pecans. Packed to-go, it’s a quick and easy breakfast that will warm you up from the inside out. Another place I frequent often is Nourish. What I love about this place is its efforts to offer food without preservatives, GMOs, or sugary additives. Nutrient-dense meals are made with love from scratch. One of my favorites is the winter detox soup with lentils, carrots, celery, baby spinach, and red bell peppers in hearty veggie stock. Another is the Thai sweet potato and carrot bisque. It’s a spicy red curry and coconut milk broth

with sweet potatoes and carrots, onions, ginger, and garlic, all garnished with fresh cilantro and pepitas.

So if you are in and around town and are looking for some amazing comfort food, definitely check out some of these local places.

Celery Root Soup

Ingredients: 2 large celeriac, 2 shallots, ¼ lbs butter, water, salt, 1 lemon.

Start by peeling and cutting the celery root into small rough cuts. Next, slice the shallots and get the large sauce pot on the stove.

Over medium heat, melt the butter. When it begins to foam, add the shallots and celery root and begin to sweat them out for

about 7-10 minutes. The key here is to not get any caramelized color on the shallots or celery root, as that will change the end color of the soup. We are looking for a nice white finished product.

Once the veg mix is sweated out, add enough water to cover it completely and softly boil it until the root is completely fork-tender.

Using a slotted spoon, scoop out the mixture and place it in the blender. Add the hot liquid from the pot into the mixture while it is blending to make the soup your preferred consistency.

Strain the finished product through a fine mesh sieve and season with salt and lemon juice.

Once cooled down, stored in the fridge for about a week or freeze for up to six months.

To elevate this soup to the next level, Servis Events garnishes it with some freshly picked celery leaf, fingerling potato chips, rendered bacon, and a dash of truffle oil.

Talk about a real feel-good meal!

Love Bulb Co. Brings Forth Holiday Cheer With Flowers

Tune in to this month’s episode of The Cardinal’s podcast with Colin Kirts and Dana Roberts for a discussion of all things merry and festive this holiday season. In honor of giving back during the month of giving, the episode focuses on the social enterprise Love Bulb CO (lovebulbco.com).

The organization offers a beautifully wrapped amaryllis or paper white flowers. These are perfect for gifts or to brighten a space. Koru Real Wellness and Nourishing Storm are two of the brick-and-mortar locations where love bulbs can be purchased.

Nancy Pickwel, a Horsham resident and Dana’s aunt, founded Love Bulb Co. She lost her beautiful daughter Bonnie to an accidental overdose in 2016 after she suffered a long battle with addiction. Click the QR code to start listening.

Thai Sweet Potato at Nourish

Bananas Foster at Native Cafe

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We decided to name Jules after our daughter because… it’s a non-Italian name. Everyone thinks pizza: Italian. Jules could be French, English, anything.

Jules now has…seven locations in two states (PA and NJ). Lovebird, which opened in 2018, has five locations in two states (PA and CT). Jules employs around 150 people, and Lovebird employs around 100.

My favorite items on the menus… depend on the season. Right now, I love the butternut squash pie. In the summer, I love the asparagus pie. At Lovebird, I like the seasonal salads. The sandwiches there are basic, but really good.

If I’m in the kitchen… I love to cook. Last night, I cooked Thai chicken curry. A few nights ago, I made braised short ribs.

The last thing I loved watching was... The Old Man on Hulu. Highly recommend. Same genre and producer as Homeland.

I was born… in Dublin, Ireland. I spent my childhood in England and Ireland, and came to the States when I was 15. My father was American, and my mother is English. They divorced, and I decided to come and live in the States.

I went to… boarding school in Connecticut, and then Boston University. I majored in International Relations. I got recruited by the CIA after college. I failed the last test, the lie detector test.

I wound up in advertising... after taking a couple of courses in college. I think of myself as creative, and I sort of fell into it in New York. My favorite part was brand strategy. I worked all over, including at Grey and Saatchi. I used to run the British Airways business in the States, and worked with 3M.

Our family lived in New York City… from 1991 to 2004. We were in the city during 9/11. I was walking to my office when it happened and went back to our apartment in Gramercy. We started seeing thousands of people walking up Third Avenue, just dazed, dusty. You couldn’t get out of the city afterward. My passion for philanthropy stems from… a desire to help. The community has been so good to us and embraced us from day one. Everyone said the Doylestown location was going to be a disaster because there was nothing there—no parking, the end of town. But we opened, and it just took off. I’m forever grateful for that. I think the least we can do is help where we can.

Causes that are important to me include… children. For us, it’s about mothers and kids. We did a lot with A Woman’s Place in 2015-2016, along with Beth Beans. We rebuilt their bathroom and kitchen.

Angel Flight East is… a much-needed organization based out of Wings Field in Ambler. They provide free flights to children

who have medical transport needs. Pilots offer their airplanes, fuel, and time.

My involvement with Angel Flight East… is serving as a volunteer pilot. I try to do four to five missions a year. A flight that left a particular impression was when I was flying a boy out of southern Virginia. The disease he had rendered nearly every bone in his body broken. He had casts on both arms and legs. He was probably four years old, and he was the bravest little thing. I put him in the pilot’s seat next to me, and the smile on his face was priceless.

I learned how to fly planes when I was… 10. My first solo flight was when I was 16. Flying, for me, is freedom.

Jules’ Toy Box… started about seven years ago. The idea was to give away a slice of pizza as an incentive to bring in an unopened toy. Each store decides where they want to donate the toys, or we just do one collective donation. In our most successful year, we collected about 400 knapsacks for schools.

If you want to provide a toy, you can… drop into any Jules location from Thanksgiving through December and throw it in the box. If you want a free slice, you’re welcome to it.

The Jules food truck… goes to various charities and events. We recently fed the poll workers for the election.

My favorite place in Bucks County is... Van Sant Airport. When I had an old biplane, I used to keep it up there.

The plane crash I experienced…happened in that biplane when I was in Africa with Bella six years ago. A group had put together about 15 biplanes to fly from Greece to Cape Town through the continent of Africa, which hadn’t been done since the 1920s. A friend of mine had a large biplane. Because he’s Israeli, he couldn’t fly through Sudan, which is an Islamic country and doesn’t allow Israelis in. He asked me if I would fly from Egypt to Kenya. I brought Bella, who was at Tulane at the time. On the last day, we lost our engine. We crashed, but we were lucky because we were not high up, at around 1,000 feet. I had about 40 seconds to get us on the ground. I swung the plane around, and there was a fence I hadn’t seen that we hit. I think the fence saved our lives because it took the momentum of the plane and flipped it. We stopped upside down. I got a little banged up on my hand when I was trying to get out to get Bella. But she was completely fine.

Bella is now… 25 and is working in New York as a brand manager.

Jules is now… 21 and is waiting to find out about med school. She’s at UCLA and will graduate in March.

My favorite part about the holiday season is… that, in theory, everyone’s happy, which is nice.

JOHN ORDWAY- continued from page

health • wellness

Doylestown Hospital Nationally Recognized with an ‘A’ for the

Fall 2022

Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade

Doylestown Hospital earned a 13th consecutive ‘A’ grade for patient safety from Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade, a national distinction recognizing Doylestown Hospital’s achievements protecting patients from errors, injuries, accidents, and infections. Doylestown Hospital has received an ‘A’ in every Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade cycle since 2016.

With this latest ranking, Doylestown Hospital is the only hospital in Pennsylvania and one of only 102 hospitals nationwide to achieve thirteen consecutive ‘A’ grades— placing it in the top three percent of all hospitals.

“This achievement reflects our entire organization’s ongoing commitment to patient-safety,” says Scott Levy, MD, Vice President and Chief Medical Officer. “Our model of care is truly patient-centered while demonstrating the highest standards of excellence in safety and outcomes.”

Founded in 1923, “Doylestown Hospital is approaching a milestone century of care,” says Levy. “We are proud to continue offering world-class care in a community setting and value this endorsement by the Leapfrog Group.”

The Leapfrog Group is an independent national watchdog organization with a 10year history of assigning letter grades to general hospitals throughout the United States, based on a hospital’s ability to prevent medical errors and harm to patients.

The grading system is peer-reviewed, fully transparent, and free to the public. Hospital Safety Grade results are based on more than 30 national performance measures

and are updated each fall and spring.

“A hospital receiving this number of consistent ‘A’ grades is a rare and remarkable achievement,” said Leah Binder, president, and CEO of The Leapfrog Group. “This persistence demonstrates a hospital’s dedication to continuously prioritize patient safety, while adapting to an evolving healthcare landscape and facing the challenges of a global pandemic. Doylestown Hospital and community should be momentously proud.”

To see Doylestown Hospital’s full grade details and to access patient tips for staying safe in the hospital, visit HospitalSafetyGrade.org.

Peace Valley Nature Center

UPCOMING SCHEDULE

WINTER LIP BALM WORKSHOP

Thursday, December 8, 6:00pm - 8:00pm

We will take a foraging walk around the property to identify local wild plants who support general health & well-being, as well as go over drying methods so that we can use those plants year-round. Then, we will head back to the center to create our lip balms that soothe and moisten dry, cracked winter skin! The first portion of the event will take place outside. Pease dress according to the weather.

LUMINARIA STROLL

Friday, December 16th: 5-7pm

Registration required. $20 per car. All ages. Stroll the meandering trail following the flickering lights and take in the glow of the season. Rain Date December 17.

WILDLIFE TREE ORNAMENT WORKSHOP

Saturday, December 10th: 1:30-3pm

Registration required.$5 members; $10 non-members. Ages 6 and up.

Natural food is hard for wildlife to find in winter. We’ll create edible ornaments to decorate trees for wildlife at the nature center and in your yard.

WINTER SOLSTICE HIKE

Wednesday, December 21st: 10-11:30am

Registration required. $5 members; $10 non-members Age: adults

Join us for a hike to celebrate the promise of longer days. We’ll discover the myths and legends behind the shortest day of the year and end with a cup of hot cocoa.

170 North Chapman Road, Doylestown • 215-348-6270

www. peacevalleynaturecenter.org

Yin for the Win: Relieve Anxiety with Yin Yoga

By Sally Miller Special to The Cardinal

When I stumbled across Yin Yoga over a decade ago, I thought I was losing my mind. “Why is being still so hard?” I wondered.

Yin Yoga is a unique style of yoga. Participants hold the postures for a few minutes at a time and practice letting go of thoughts in attempt to listen to their bodies.

What really blew me away was how angry I got at the teacher. Some days I would think, “My teacher is so annoying for making us hold these stupid postures.” But then by the end of class, I’d feel like I was walking on cloud nine. As someone with an inquisitive and scientific mind, I became fascinated with how something so initially unpleasant could lead to such desirable outcomes.

It turns out that yin yoga is as helpful for improving physical flexibility as it is for mental health. You get to process your

emotions and let them move through you - no matter where they came from or what was causing them. I have been studying and teaching yin yoga ever since.

One of my greatest joys is helping people find natural remedies for their pain and suffering. Yin Yoga has been so transformative in my own life that I feel obligated to share it with the world. And truthfully, there is no greater joy than watching someone return to a state of health and well-being. I’ve had students whose lower back pain just disappeared after a few yin yoga sessions, and others with chronic knee pain recover in months without surgery.

I teach yin yoga online once a week through my Anxiety Support Group. The group meets every Thursday night at 8 pm on ZOOM, and you can join anytime. I also occasionally offer Yin Yoga Teacher training and Silent Retreats in person in Bucks County. Check out my full schedule on sallymilleryoga.com.

health • wellness

How to Thrive, not Survive This Holiday Season

By Ariel Mann Special to The Cardinal

The Holidays season brings magical times. But it can also be one of the most stressful times of the year. Let’s not just survive or “get through” the next month, but enjoy all the warmth this season has to offer. Here are 6 healthy holiday tips to help you thrive your way into the new year.

Get enough rest

Stick to your normal sleep routine. Getting enough quality sleep is going to help combat stress, keep you energized, and prevent extra sugar cravings.

Drink more water

Drinking enough water will help flush out toxins, increase energy levels, improve digestion and prevent you from holding onto extra water weight.

Move your body early in the day

Once you get cozy on the couch and start binge watching Christmas movies, chances are, you’re not moving again. Something as simple as a quick walk, light stretching, or yoga are great ways to start the day. This will increase energy, mood, and overall mental health this season.

Practice mindful eating Nourish yourself throughout the day

leading up to dinner - don’t go into a meal starving. Check-in with yourself throughout the meal. Are you still hungry, or are you eating just to eat? If you can’t resist the pumpkin pie after, don’t fight it. Eat a few bites until you feel satisfied. Stop before you mindlessly eat to the point of discomfort. Remember: one meal isn’t going to derail the progress you’re making.

Balance social and alone time

Between holiday parties, family dinners, and social gatherings with friends, the holidays are a time of togetherness. While it’s amazing, it can also be mentally draining. Allow yourself alone time to recharge. It’s not selfish to prioritize yourself. Things like a walk, getting a pedicure, or a hot bath are great ways to relax and treat yourself.

Set intentions and have a plan

Busy times can get in the way of healthy habits. Don’t let one bad day turn into a bad month. Set intentions for your day - whether it’s getting enough sleep, drinking water, working out, or meditating. Prioritizing those habits can allow you to enjoy all the festivities without restricting or feeling guilty afterward.

Need help staying on track? Email me to learn more about my holiday coaching specials.

Paxson Hill Farm Illuminates the Winter Solstice

By Lauren Heine Special to The Cardinal

The Winter Solstice will arrive at 4:48 pm on Dec. 21. Cultures around the world celebrate the first day of winter and the sun’s rebirth. It’s the longest night of the year. Many traditions incorporate aspects of light to chase away the darkness. Decorations of mistletoe and holly to celebrate fertility and protection from evil spirits.

Paxson Hill Farm in New Hope Bucks County is a magical place any time of the year, but the Winter Solstice is sure to be a unique experience. The property boasts beautiful gardens as well as a handsomely appointed nursery. A greenhouse oasis with rare indoor plant species, multiple animals, and a cozy storefront welcomes visitors.

After a successful turnout of the Summer Solstice celebration, the farmers invite garden enthusiasts for a Winter Solstice Garden Walk. This immersive experience entails a guided tour through lantern-lit paths followed by a bonfire with Yule logs and light refreshments. The walk kicks off at 5 p.m., and tickets are $25 a person.

In the farm’s store, visitors can find specialties such as Yule logs with herbs grown on the farm, creative handmade wreaths, pick-your-own fresh-cut Christmas trees, and colorful poinsettias. And to add whimsy to curb appeal - lotus gnomes. The storefront is stocked with unique gifts, including handmade soaps, honey from the farm’s bee hives, yarn from the sheep, and glass ornaments.

Paxson Hill Farm has been in the Paxson family since the 1600s. Owner Bruce Gangawer acquired it in 1997. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, with a genuine affinity for nature. It’s a peaceful place to

recharge and find inspiration, whether it’s in the serene Zen garden with its soothing water features or in the nursery.

It’s an enchanting spot to enjoy alone, with your partner, or with the whole family. Children and adults can both let their imagination run free in the Fairy Garden and Hobbit House or test their cleverness in the maze. Feed the peacocks, coy fish, and guinea hens, and complete the scavenger hunt list with over 40 items to seek.

General admission is $8; no charge for children under five. Unlimited visit 2023 season passes are available. Guided tours of the public and private gardens: $20 a person. For more information on the Winter Solstice Garden Walk and all things Paxson Hill Farm, visit www.paxsonhillfarm.com, Paxson Hill Farm Nursery and Gardens on Facebook, and paxsonhillfarm on Instagram.

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, the event organizer, donates half of the Christmas in Doylestown total profits to the Bucks County Housing Group to support the Doylestown homeless community. Since the event initiation, the church has raised $193,000 for the shelter.

This year’s houses include:

• 153 Shewell Ave: Oscar Martin’s home, which he designed and built in 1902.

• 119 Union St: a two-story colonial built in 1942.

• 288 Maple Ave: A 153-year-old, three-storied Dutch colonial.

• 44 East Court St: a brick, three-story 1858 farmhouse.

The 2022 tour takes place Friday, Dec. 2, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. and Sat. Dec. 3, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church office, at the Doylestown Bookshop, and online at https://bchg.org. Ticket includes the tour of the homes and holiday tea with finger sandwiches and desserts in St. Paul’s Parish Hall. Boxed cookies and raffle tickets for numerous gift baskets are available for purchase.

2.

Travel Back to Simpler Times with Henry Mercer

The pride and joy of Doylestown, Fonthill Castle and Mercer Museum are awe-inspiring any time of the year. But during the holiday season, these two landmarks give visitors a unique opportunity to experience holiday wonder at the turn of the 20th century, as Henry Mercer saw it.

Daytime and evening Winter Wonderland guided tours of historic Fonthill Castle showcase Henry Mercer’s home decked for the holidays while sharing the history of Mercer and the construction of this unique property. Visitors can also explore the castle on their own during Holiday Lights Meander Days. For specific tour dates and times visit mercermuseum.org/holidays.

The Mercer Museum will bring sounds, scents, and scenes of the season during its annual Holiday Open House on Dec. 6, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. It will feature local musical performances, the burning of the greens, and a visit with Santa in the Log House.

visit the home of Henry Mercer’s grandfather, which he built in 1844. See antique ornaments, a hand-built 19th Century dollhouse, and a collection of historical dolls and toys. Learn about customs surrounding the Christmas holidays in Victorian Times.

Tours are available Fri. and Sat., Dec. 2 through 17. All Public Tour tickets must be reserved and paid for in advance at AVictorianChristmas.Eventbrite.com

4. Celebrate the Festival Of Lights with Temple Judea Let’s not forget about Hanukkah! Join Temple Judea for a fun and interactive community Hanukkah celebration Sun., Dec.18, 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Fun singing, delicious donuts, treat bags, crafts, and raffle prizes.

host a free holiday community night with complimentary tours of the Festival of Trees on Dec. 15, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Looking for a one-of-a-kind gift for a special someone? The Holiday Craft Show brings a unique shopping experience and offers jury-selected gifts, decorations, food, jewelry, apparel, and more from professional crafters, artists, and chefs.

The Show runs daily through Dec. 4, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is $5.

7. Sing Along in the Holiday Spirit at Bristol Riverside Theater

Another community favorite tradition, the Riverside Theater, brings holiday spirit through music.  Keith Baker and the BRT Concert Band, along with fabulous entertainers, take the stage to perform classic carols and heartwarming holiday songs. An American Christmas Songbook show runs Dec. 8 through 18. For more information and tickets, visit brtstage.org.

8. Drive Through Holiday Wonderland at Shady Brook Farm

Stay warm and cozy as you drive through Shady Brook Farm Holiday Light Show. Running through Jan. 8, the Show features more than three million lights illuminating acres of farmland. Encounter whimsical displays and familiar characters as you drive through in the comfort of your own car or enjoy the show on an open-air wagon ride. For more information and tickets, visit shadybrookfarm.com.

9. Ride Santa’s North Pole Express at the New Hope - Ivyland Railroad

Join Santa and Mrs. Claus as you depart New Hope Station for a train ride through the historic Bucks County countryside on the way to the North Pole. Whether you’re a new guest or returning for a family tradition, you will experience the sounds and tastes of the holiday season.  Sing along with our roaming musicians as they play Christmas carols, and you sip warm cocoa and enjoy a freshly baked cookie. Share your special wishes with Santa as he and Mrs. Claus visit the children.

5. Soak

in the Wonder of Peddlers Village Holiday Lights

Not one holiday season can go without a visit to Peddlers Village. Stroll the village grounds, where more than 1 million twinkling lights decorate the quaint shops and trees in a spectacular display. The annual Gingerbread House Competition features more than 70 creations in the Red Barn on Street Road Green through Jan. 8.

The Village will also host the Holly Jolly Weekend on Dec. 3 and 4, with Santa Parades at 1:30 p.m. on both days. Shops will be open until 9 p.m. on Sat. and 7 p.m. on Sun. Free admission and parking.

6. Embrace the Legacy of Pearl Buck at the Annual Festival of Trees

The beautiful and iconic Pearl S. Buck stone farmhouse contains a rich collection of the famous author’s memorabilia. The Annual Festival of Trees showcases beautiful trees and vignettes designed by Bucks County’s best artists, decorators, and local community groups. Visitors have the opportunity to vote for their favorite display.

Each child will receive their own sleigh bell gift from Santa himself.  Children and adults alike are encouraged to indulge in the season’s spirit by wearing pajamas and settling in for a relaxing ride with family and friends aboard our festive railway cars adorned with holiday decorations. This joyous annual event will surely become a cherished holiday tradition for the entire family. For tickets and more information, visit newhoperailroad.com.

10. Spot Santa on His Visits Throughout the Area

The Ol’ Saint Nick is coming to Bucks County! To catch sightings of Santa, check out one of the following events:

• Mercantile shopping center will welcome Santa and the Grinch on Dec. 3, 10, 17, and 18, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. For tickets, visit mercantiledoylestown.com

• The Hattery Restaurant will host Branch with Santa on Dec. 18, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. For reservations, call (215) 345-1527.

• Santa’s House on Hamilton and State Sts. in Doylestown will host Santa’s visits through Dec. 24, Sun, 2p.m. to 4 p.m., Wed: 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., Fri. 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Sat 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Christmas Eve hours: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

3.

Learn About Victorian Christmas Traditions at the James-Lorah Memorial Museum

You can keep it in the family while you’re at it and

This year, Pearl S. Buck International treats guests to a new exhibit of original artwork by renowned artist Anna Marie Magagna, created to illustrate Pearl S. Buck’s children’s book, Christmas Miniature. For tour reservations, visit pearlsbuck.org. The organization will

• Shady Brook Farm will welcome Santa through Dec. 23, Mon. through Fri., 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.; Sat. from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Sun. from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. with extended hours from 1:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Dec.  22 and Dec. 23.

Photo courtesy Discover Doylestown

Local Spotlight with Danielle: The Soap Opera Company

By Danielle Gannon The Cardinal Contributing Writer

Meet Jennifer Nelson, owner, and operator of The Soap Opera Company, in Peddler’s Village, Doylestown, and New Hope.

Jennifer purchased the stores Peddler’s and New Hope in 2013 after needing to shift careers. A former Pharma rep, she wanted to connect more locally to the people who made up the community. She wanted to have hands-on experience in affecting the local economy.

The Soap Opera Company is a local luxury soap/body wash product store. When she purchased the business in 2013, it comprised 70 percent commercial products and 30 percent private labels. Now, in 2022, Nelson is proud to say, it is reversed. The private-label female artisans make up 70 percent of the business, and the commercial products make up 30 percent.

“My favorite part of the business is being able to enrich the lives of the people that work around me,” explains Nelson. The artisans come from around the country, making and crafting their products. Then they have staff at The Soap Opera who make luxury items, i.e., bath salts and sugar whips.

social media, or just give them a phone call. Local businesses offer shipping, and some even provide free local delivery. Make the pledge to shop local this holiday season.

Looking for inspiration? Check out some of our favorite local spots:

The Soap Opera Company: This cute soap boutique is where you can find allnatural, artisanal, luxury soap and luxury bath products, as well as bath bombs, bath salts, lotions, and candles. Located next to the County Theater in Doylestown at 8 E. State Street or online at www. soapoperacompany.com

Trash Culture: From new and used

There is a therapeutic/natural line infused with essential oils that are said to work with the body to assist in the relief of various ailments.

There is an online store www.soapoperacompany.com as well as three brick and mortar locations.

Jen’s favorite product is the sugar whips, which I bought and have been using for the last week. They are so creamy and smell so good it lingers throughout the day with just the lightest touch of scent. It also has a fine sugar granule that exfoliates too.

Nelson is very active and involved with a local charity, Tuesdays with Lori, a legacy project named after a dear friend of hers. She is deeply passionate about this and intends to spend more time in the very near future giving back.

Soap Opera is the winner of both Bucks Happening and Bucks County Herald yearly business awards. On Small business Saturday, all three locations give a bath bomb away to every customer who spends over $25, while supplies last.

Visit them at Instagram @soapoperacompany for the latest in information on their locations!

Stop by in person; this is a store you must experience. The scents, textures, and decor are all so captivating!

Danielle Gannon is a local Bucks County entrepreneur. Mom to three, she is co-owner of Organnons Natural Market and Founder & Managing Director of Local Spotlight with Danielle. Her passion is connecting people and creating community. Residing in Ivyland, writing has always been a passion of hers. Find her on IG @localspotlightwithdanielle

electric and acoustic guitars to amps, distortion pedals, and rock apparel and merchandise, this shop, located under the School of Rock at 88 S. Main St., is the perfect place to check out for beginner or seasoned musicians on your list (or just anyone who’s a fan of rock n’ roll!) Online at www.trash-culture.com

Sweetah’s Gluten Free Bake Shop: Nothing compliments a great holiday meal like dessert! If you’re having gluten-free or gluten-sensitive visitors, this is the place to get your dessert (and your other guests won’t even notice!) Delicious and safe gluten-free and vegan offerings include pies, cakes,

cookies, donuts, scones, muffins, cupcakes, and cream puffs. Check them out at 23 S. Clinton Street in Doylestown or order online at www.sweetahs.com

Sarah Cornwell Jewelry: You can’t go wrong with giving the gift of jewelry. As a lifelong Bucks County resident, Sarah puts a “Hometown Pride” feel into all her collections. SCJ pieces are made with topquality 14K solid gold, 14K gold fill, and sterling silver and have a classic simplicity that works for an everyday look or a special occasion. Check out her limited edition holiday collection, as well as her one-of-akind new pieces released every Wednesday,

online at www.sarahcornwelljewelry.com

Rutherford’s Camera Shop: This staple of town is a great place to stop for any photography aficionado. Proudly serving the Doylestown community for over eighty years, there’s definitely something to find here for either a beginner or professional photographer: digital cameras and camcorders, film processing and scanning equipment, tripods, binoculars, digital prints and enlargements, old photos copied and restored, film, picture frames, albums, and much more. Located at 23 W. State Street in Doylestown and online at www. rutherfordcamera.com

Jennifer Nelson

LOCAL

arts • music

Christina Ward:

“Keep Making Music If It Makes You Happy”

First off, it’s an honor to be interviewing such an incredible songwriter and musician, but also one that I have known since grade school. Tell us a little bit about what got you into music.

Thank you for the interview! It’s an honor to be interviewed by one of my favorite local musicians. Music was one of my only outlets as a kid. I’d listen to all of my mom’s warped Beatles albums. Page was my hero. I’d sit in my room and practice for hours, playing along to songs on Led Zeppelin III.

It started out as a way I could escape my chaotic home life and process emotions. It’s still a useful tool to process difficult situations and also a way to connect with people. I feel lucky to have that. Life can be lonely, especially when it’s not going well.

You released another album last month. What’s it’s called and where can we hear it?

The album is called Calendar, and you can hear it on all streaming platforms. I wrote and recorded it while going through a divorce. It was helpful to have a project to focus on during that time. It’s hard to start over after having a home and finally feeling settled. You know how it goes - one door slams shut in your face and another... (enter metaphor here). My ex is a wonderful human and talented musician. Sometimes things just don’t work out. I’m super excited to finally have the record done and released into the universe. Hoping to start on a new one soon.

What advice could you give to younger musicians making original music these days? Keep making music if it makes you happy. That might be the only advice I have to offer. That answer is short, so I’ll elaborate a little. I’ve had a lot of people along the way tell me I’m not great at a lot of things, but that’s subjective. Not everyone is going to like what you do or how you do it. Do it anyway.

Where are you playing these days? I’d love to come see you perform. I have a bunch of stuff coming up! Dec. 22 at The Pet Shop in Jersey City, Jan. 6 at John and Peter’s, and Jan. 20th at Kung Fu Necktie in Philly! Hope you can make it to a show.

“Strings, Winds and Fire” Bucks County Symphony Orchestra Announces Its Annual Family Concert

The Bucks County Symphony Orchestra presents its annual Family Concert at Central Bucks High School East in Buckingham on Sunday, December 4, 2022, at 3:00 p.m. The program, Strings, Winds and Fire, conducted by Music Director José Luis Domínguez, promises to delight music lovers of all ages!

The opening work, Conga del Fuego, composed by Mexican composer Arturo Márquez, bursts forth with color in an atmosphere created by the composer’s brilliant orchestration and imaginative use of conga rhythms.

A highlight of the afternoon’s concert is the performance of the third movement of Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto, played by 14-year-old Audrey Kim, winner of the BCSO’s Youth Concerto Competition. Audrey began playing violin at the age of four and has played in orchestras and small string ensembles at Temple Music Prep’s Center for Gifted Young Musicians for eight years. She was accepted to the Advanced Study Scholarship Ensemble program at the Settlement Music School, and has won numerous awards in local competitions.

As a special treat, the BCSO performs The Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra

by Benjamin Britten, demonstrating the wide variety of tone colors and the unique characteristics of each section and instrument the symphony orchestra.

Talented young musicians in the Wind Ensemble of Holicong Middle School join the BCSO in two pieces—Factory Riffs and A Nation’s Prayer (based on two patriotic tunes, God of our Fathers and The Battle Hymn of the Republic).

For ticket information and to learn more about Bucks County Symphony Orchestra visit BucksCountySymphony.org.

FRIDAY • DECEMBER 30 8:30PM $10

FRIDAY - SATURDAY • DECEMBER 2-3 8:30PM $25

FRIDAY • DECEMBER 9 8:30PM $10

OPEN STAGE/NEW COMIC NIGHT features brand new comics and some of our regulars stopping by to work on material. New comics get 4/5 minutes on stage. To make a show reservation for this event please email office@ ComedyCabaret.com Admission is $10, and the show will be approximately 2 hours long.

SATURDAY • DECEMBER 10 8:30PM $26

OPEN STAGE/NEW COMIC NIGHT features brand new comics and some of our regulars stopping by to work on material. New comics get 4/5 minutes on stage. We have a limited number of spots available, If you would like to be on stage, please email Marilyn@ComedyCabaret.com. To make a show reservation for this event please email office@ ComedyCabaret.com Admission is $10, and the show will be approximately 2 hours long.

*No food in the comedy club, beverages only. If you are coming to the for show only, be here by 35/40 minutes before showtime for seating. If you are having dinner at Poco’s arrive about 2 hours before showtime.

**Sales go through a company called ‘PayPal’. You do NOT have to be a member. When it says pay with PayPal, click it and there will be an option to use your own credit card. All sales non-refundable. All seating is general admission. We will have your name at the door.

Friday and Saturday Nights All Shows are SMOKE-FREE!

For Show Reservations & Info Call 215.345.JOKE (5653) or visit www.ComedyCabaret.com

The “Pots and Pans Show” section of The Cardinal, brought to you by Jamie Stem, highlights local musicians and the restaurants that host their live music. For more information about the Pots and Pans music section, reach out to Jamie Stem at Jamie.stem@gmail.com

Christina Ward

NON-STOP LAUGHS WITH THE COMEDY CLUB ENTERTAINER OF THE YEAR - J.J. RAMIREZ who has been seen on TV’s Comedy Central, “Evening at the Improv,” “Comic Strip Live,” and “Showtime at the Apollo!” He was also featured in the movie “The Latin Legends of Comedy.” J.J. is known as “The Latin Lunatic” -- his audience participation and his live version of “The Dating Game!” Is totally hysterical! A regular performer in Las Vegas and AC but this weekend we have him in Bucks County!

The COMEDY ALLSTARS - starring the TALL BLONDE Helene Angley who has been seen on NYC TV, Dry Bar TV and is a 2 time ‘Comedy Competition Champion.’  Helene will have you roaring with laughs with her routines about her teenage children and family life!  PLUS 2 other Comedy Competition Champs, THE BIG GUY - David Graham and Comic Glenn Freeman will crack you up!  And your host is Bucks County comic Tim Conniff.

Audrey Kim

arts • music

MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET CHRISTMAS New Holiday Musical Playing at Bucks County Playhouse through January 1

The story of a legendary Sun Studio jam session by four icons — Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins – is retold using rock ‘n’ roll holiday hits

Audiences relive one of the most magical nights in rock and roll history during Bucks County Playhouse’s presentation of “Million Dollar Quartet Christmas,” the holiday version of the smash Broadway hit. Running now through January 1, 2023, the book is written by Colin Escott and it is directed by Hunter Foster, who starred in the original production of “Million Dollar Quartet” on Broadway. This new Christmas version is inspired by the imagined story of four music icons who gather for an all-night jam session.

On December 4, 1956, an unlikely quartet of Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and Carol Perkins — all young artists in their 20s on the verge of superstardom — accidentally converged on Sun Records in Memphis. “Million Dollar Quartet Christmas” imagines an all-night jam session, now reset as a celebration of the most wonderful time of the year! The gang takes the audience on a musical journey through stories of Christmas past, present, and future. The show is jam-packed with some of the best rock’n’roll holiday hits of all time including “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree,” “Blue Christmas”, “Jingle Bell Rock” and more! The show is performed live onstage by a cast of actors who play their own instruments.

The Playhouse’s Executive Producer Robyn Goodman, Producing Director Alexander Fraser, and producer Josh Fiedler are pleased to present “Million Dollar Quartet Christmas, which will close out the 83rd Season at the Playhouse — the 10th since the reopening in 2012.

“After breaking Playhouse box office records with our production of ‘Million Dollar Quartet’ in 2018, we are bringing

the boys back for a new holiday version of this musical that’s perfect for the whole family,” says Producing Director, Alexander Fraser. “No one knows this show better than Hunter Foster, the original “Sam Phillips” on Broadway. Having directed nearly a dozen shows for us, we’re happy to have him back in the director’s chair.”

The Playhouse cast includes Joe Boover as Elvis Presley, Tyler Michael Breeding as Johnny Cash, Jason Cohen as Jerry Lee Lewis and Sam Sherwood as Carl Perkins. They are joined by Margaret Dudasik as Dyanne, Bart Shatto as Sam Phillips, James David Larson as Brother Jay Perkins and Tucker Cruz Marshall as Fluke. Guiliana Augello, Brian Michael Henry and Sam C. Jones round out the cast.

Josh Smith is Scenic Designer. Lighting Designer is Ryan O’Gara. Costume designer is Lauren T. Roark. Ashton Corey is Sound Designer. Sam Sherwood is Music Director. Pamela Edington is Production Stage Manager. Gregory Fletcher is Assistant Stage Manager. Casting is by Paul Hardt.

The production will play the following schedule: Tuesdays at 7:30 p.m., Wednesdays at 2:00 pm, Thursdays at 2:00 pm and 7:30 pm, Fridays at 8:00 pm, Saturdays at 2:00 pm and 8:00 pm, and Sundays at 2:00 pm. There are special holiday performances on Wednesday, November 23 at 7:30 pm, Friday, November 25 at 2 pm, Wednesday, December 21 at 7:30 pm, and Friday, December 23 at 2:00 pm. There are no performances on Thanksgiving Day or Christmas Day. The opening night performance is Saturday, November 19 at 7:30 p.m.

Single tickets to “Million Dollar Quartet Christmas” are on sale now. Tickets start at $70; special rates are available for groups of 10 or more. For complete details, up-todate pricing and to purchase tickets, please visit buckscountyplayhouse.org, call 215862-2121, or visit the box office at 70 South Main Street, New Hope, PA.

Dan the Man Trivia Questions

Question – Ringo Starr had a solo career after The Beatles; what song did the famous drummer record that became a hit single in 1971?

Question – This song was written by Prince, made famous by Sinead O’Connor, and most recently covered by Chris Cornell.

Question – What band were Peter Gabriel and Phil Collins in together?

Dad Joke

What do sprinters eat before a race? Answer: Nothing, they fast.

Come see Dan the Man (Dan Fry) at Trivia every Thursday night at Villa Capri!

BUCKS COUNTY PLAYHOUSE EDUCATION SCHEDULES WINTER 2023 IN PERSON SESSION

Bucks County Playhouse has announced

a lineup of in-person education programs for the new year. The classes range from adult acting to beginner tap dance to voice-over training. Bucks County Playhouse’s education programming is designed to offer a wide range of classes, workshops, and performance opportunities for the community regardless of skill level or professional aspiration. The teaching artists are all professional artists, educators, and theater-makers with years of experience.

The winter session will begin January 9 and all classes will be held in Lambertville Hall, 57 Bridge Street, Lambertville, NJ. Visit www.bcptheater.org for more information and to register or contact Ellen Gallos, Assistant Director of Education with questions at ellen@buckscountyplayhouse. org. Note: Face masks are suggested but are no longer required to attend all on site classes. For more information regarding latest Covid-19 policies, visit bcptheater.org/ termsconditions.

Breaking into the Voice-over World Pete DeMeo • January 9 – 30, 2023 Mondays, from 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm

There’s never been a better time to break into the voice over world. Almost all voice over work can now be done remotely from home! Students will receive individual coaching on proper voice over technique for TV and radio commercials and promos, how to approach and personalize copy, how to make a demo and get an agent, and how to work from the comfort of your home. Ages 18 to adult.

Acting For Adults • June Ballinger

January 10 – February 28, 2023 Tuesdays, from 7:00 pm – 9:30 pm

Through assigned scenes and monologues this class teaches the basic techniques towards reaching truthful behavior in acting. Using improvisation, assigned scenes and monologues the actor will identify the intersection of their own authentic self to the fictional character. This validating class is fun and encourages compassion and understanding of yourself and those you will be working with. Students of varying levels are encouraged to sign up. You can be a curious beginner or a more experienced performer. Ages 17 to 60+.

Beginning Adult Tap • Julie Johnson Thick

January 11 – February 15, 2023 Wednesdays, from 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm

Led by professional dancer, Julie Johnson Thick, in this six-week class you will learn basic tap steps, fun combinations to tap your way into a great American dance tradition. Ages 15 to Adult.

Improv for Adults • Will Dennis

January 12 – February 16, 2023 Thursdays, from 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Spark your creativity! Put yourself out there! Play! Back by popular demand, this virtual class offers two hours of collaborative acting games, improv techniques and opportunities to nurture your creativity. No experience necessary – just a desire to laugh! Ages 15 to adult.

Visit www.bcptheater.org to register or contact Ellen Gallos, Assistant Director of Education at ellen@buckscountyplayhouse. org for questions.

Artist Spotlight

Meet Verdie Winters. She is a newer vendor at Makers Off Main, having just started in October 2022. She has worked in a variety of mediums but has found that her favorite thing to create is gnomes. We chose Verdie to be this month’s featured vendor because her holiday gnomes are flying off the shelves here at Makers Off Main!

Tell us about yourself.

I currently work as a nurse navigator for a local mental health agency. I live in Perkasie with my daughter and granddaughter.

When did your journey with art begin?

I have been crafting for most of my adult life, but started creating gnomes in 2020 during the quarantine.

Tell us about your art. What is your creative process like?

My gnome inspiration comes from all over. I am always looking for accessories to use to make them. My favorite gnomes are my Holiday gnomes.

Where can we find your work?

My gnomes can be found at Makers Off Main, the Mercantile of Doylestown, and on my Facebook page https://facebook.com/ creativecraftsandgnomesbyverdie

Dan the Man Trivia Answers

Answer: “It Don’t Come Easy”

Answer: “Nothing Compares To You”

Answer: Genesis

Come see Dan the Man (Dan Fry) at Trivia every Thursday night at Villa Capri!

From L-R: Jason Cohen as Jerry Lee Lewis, Sam Sherwood as Carl Perkins, James David Larson as Brother Jay, Margaret Dudasik as Dyanne, Joe Boover as Elvis Presley and Tyler Michael Breeding as Johnny Cash in “Million Dollar Quartet Christmas” at Bucks County Playhouse through January 1. Photo by Joan Marcus

Brought to you by Makers Off Main

Verdie Winters

By Britt Around Town The Cardinal Contributing Writer

Logan Inn, originally built in 1727 with 16 rooms, is proud to hold the title of the 5th continuously-run inn in the United States. Owners Frank and Jeanne Cretella of Landmark Hospitality have recently treated this historic New Hope inn to a massive renovation and expansion. They added 22 new guest rooms, a whiskey bar, a movie theater.

The Inn

My husband Pete stayed at the Inn and there was so much to do that we spent most of our visit enjoying the inn itself. I received a tour of the inn from Andrea, the director of service and beverage, who showed me all the fun things that the Logan Inn has to offer, including:

• Ferry + Main: The restaurant at Logan Inn

• Good & Plenty: Logan Inn’s indoor and outdoor bar that features over 20 beers on tap and a selection of signature cocktails

• The Whiskey Lounge: This “speakeasystyle” lounge is the perfect place to kick back for a drink, network, and enjoy live music.

• The Ballroom: This gorgeous ballroom, perfect for meetings ore special events, seats

up to 150 guests with a dance floor.

• Theater: The Logan Inn has a theater showing a variety of movies.

• Wine Cellar

• The Rock Room: Features a billiards table and is available to book for different events

The King Suite at The Logan Inn

This suite, located in the beautifully renovated portion of the inn, provided us with a luxurious space for our relaxing staycation. The suite offered a spacious sleeping area that opened up to a balcony with a breathtaking view of the bustling town of New Hope. A separate living room, a minibar stocked with beverages and snacks, and a glorious bathroom with a rain shower, provided grate accommodations.

Emily’s Room

For lovers of haunted Bucks County history, Room #6 in the historic part of the inn is known as “Emily’s Room.” According to various sources, Emily Lutz, who was related to previous owners of the Logan Inn, has been seen roaming all over the original innwith most appearances occurring in room #6. The room is said to be cold and the scent of lavender has been noted to appear whenever she is around. Reports say that Emily may move objects around the room, adjust the

room temperature, and open up doors.

Around New Hope

Across the street from the Inn Ferry Market features eats, sips, and treats from 12 local vendors. My husband Pete and I both got a poke bowl from The Salty Pineapple and a beer from Neshaminy Creek Brewing Company.

After lunch, we set out for a quick walk around town. Our sightseeing The Boomer, a sculpture made by local artist Dana Stewart, the Delaware Rived, and the Delaware Canal Towpath. The towpath originally served as a means of transportation of goods, with mules guiding boats along the canal. Now, the historic Delaware Canal State Park is a part of the D&L Trail, which travels the entire length of Bucks County from Bristol to Riegelsville and then continues on all the way north to Wilkes-Barre.

The Rock Room

toast points, pickled veggies and seasonal compote

• Jersey Tomato Soup Croquettes: caramelized fennel, Comte cheese, basil and more fennel

• Beef Tartare: Pomme pail kiss on, confit egg yolk, caviar and beef fat aioli

• F+M Grassfed Burger: brioche, bacon jam, barn red cheddar, sunny side egg and duck fat fries

• Toasted Corn Pasta Shells: lamb leg barbacoa, pickled black radish, curtido slaw, Oaxacan Mole crema and chile lamb jus

• Bitter Chocolate Tarte: Fleur de sel Carmel, popcorn brittle, butter powder and popcorn ice cream

Back at the Logan Inn, Pete and I headed downstairs before dinner to spend some time in the Rock Room. We used to play in the American Poolplayers Association, so when I saw the room and the pool table, I was excited to play a few rounds.

I loved everything about the atmosphere of the Rock Room from the check board flooring, to the view of the wine cellar to the photo hanging in the back of the room of the one and only David Bowie. We had such a fun time and it brought us right back to our APA days.

Dinner Time at Ferry + Main Ferry + Main is open to guests of Logan Inn as well as the public. The menu has been crafted by Ferry + Main’s executive chef, Greg Vassos. A true farm to table, the menu features ingredients from local farms and vendors.

Our menu selections during our stay included:

• Artisanal Cheese & Charcuterie Plate:

I can’t talk about our dining experience without mentioning the exceptional service. Our server for the night was Garrett, who went above and beyond to make our visit memorable. Our glasses were always filled, our empty plates were quickly removed from the table and the recommendations he provided were spot on. We had a wonderful night at Ferry + Main and it is highly recommended during your stay or for a night out in New Hope.

We woke up Monday morning and got to enjoy the sun rise up in the direction of the Delaware River from the deck of our suite. Before heading out early to get to work, we stopped by to grab a bite to eat at the continental breakfast station that offered a selection of tea, coffee, fruit, pastries, and bagels to start the day.

We had a phenomenal time during our stay at the Logan Inn and only wish it could have been longer. Thank you to the entire team at The Logan Inn for a wonderful stay. I highly recommend looking into the Logan Inn for your next vacation or staycation to Bucks County.

BOOK REVIEW: Little Women Rings Familiar Notes in Modern Times

By Lily Appleby The Cardinal Editorial Intern

There is no better way to spend chilly winter evenings than wrapped up in a blanket, cuddled up in a cozy chair, with a book full of heart-warming sentiment and festivity. One such winter read is Little Women, by Louisa May Alcott.

Alcott was born in 1832, only half an hour away from Doylestown in Germantown, PA. Her classic work was published in 1868/69. The story of the infamous March sister quartet takes place simultaneously with the Civil War, which defines America for the first half of the 1860s.

Little Women is a semi-autobiographical, though likely highly romanticized, account of Alcott’s own childhood. Growing up as one of four daughters of the New England transcendentalist Amos Bronson Alcott and Abigail May, our author characterized the

TheFAMILY CORNER

Ongoing

The Yoga Gnome

Baby and Me Yoga

Thursdays, 11:00am

Gnome and Me Yoga Saturdays, 10:00am

Family Yoga

First Friday, 7:00pm

Tot and Me Yoga Saturdays, 9:00am Preschooler and Me Tuesdays, 10:00am

Yoga and Mindfulness for K-2 Graders Mondays, 4:45pm & Thursdays, 4:45pm

Yoga and Mindfulness for Teens Tuesdays, 4:30pm

Yoga and Mindfulness for 3-5 Graders

Wednesdays, 5:30pm

Yoga and Mindfulness for 4-6 Graders Mondays, 5:45pm

LGBTQ+ Yoga for tweens/teens Mondays, 7:00pm

Through December 18

Photos with Santa at Giggleberry Fair

Peddlers Village

Saturdays & Sundays 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm

Our elves have transformed Giggleberry Fair into a Holiday Wonderland just in time for Santa’s arrival! Beat the crowds at the mall and head over to Giggleberry Fair for your Photos with Santa set amongst garland and glitter. Head over to the website for time slots and more information!

https://peddlersvillage.com

Through January 8

A Very Furry Christmas Celebration Sesame Place

A Very Furry Christmas at Sesame Place is a festive, family-friendly celebration with everyone’s favorite Sesame Street friends. The park is transformed into a one-of-a-kind Christmas wonderland with millions of twinkling lights, whirling rides, and festive decorations all around. Sing and dance along at special Christmas shows and a spectacular music and light show at our 30foot 1-2-3 Christmas Tree. Don’t miss the fantastic Sesame Street Christmas Parade with festive floats decorated for the celebration and a showstopping performance that will have everyone getting very merry and having lots of holiday fun.

Enjoy savory Christmas menus, shop for holiday gifts, visit Santa in his Furry Workshop, and get one-of-a-kind photos with everyone’s furry friends dressed up in their holiday best! sesameplace.com

Through January 8 Gingerbread Competition & Display

Peddlers Village

A holiday tradition at Peddlers Village since 1984! The Gingerbread Competition and Display is a feast for the eyes, with more than 75 creative and whimsical entries crafted by the public in different categories. The Gingerbread entries will be displayed from November 18th through January 8th, 2023. Admission is free. https://peddlersvillage.com/event/gingerbreaddisplay

March sisters similarly to her own. This aspect of authenticity creates a beautifully vivid depiction of the March family and it dynamics, detailing sentimental sibling bonds and the growing pains of long-lasting friendships.

A beautiful read for any season, the novel covers a significant amount of time as it follows the sisters’ journeys. And no season passes without recognition. However, the chapters that remain most memorable are those in which the winter holidays emphasize the novel’s core values. The indoor warmth of these chapters invites you in with open arms. Almost immediately, the coldness outside is forgotten, for the book is so all-consuming.

As aforementioned, the March sisters bare great resemblance to those of Alcott’s own. Jo March, the second eldest of the four sisters, is Alcott’s incarnation of her own character. With this element of reality, readers are almost guaranteed to feel

Varied Dates

Wild Lights

Elmwood Park Zoo 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Celebrate the holiday season with the return of Wild Lights to Elmwood Park Zoo! Each night of Wild Lights will feature live entertainment, including unique animal encounters, live music, performances, and more. elmwoodparkzoo.org

Wednesday • November 30

Quiet Mornings

Elmwood Zoo 11:00am – 12:00pm

Elmwood Park Zoo offers the opportunity for our guests with special needs and their families to enjoy early entry to the Zoo. This is a great opportunity to enjoy the Zoo in a relaxing setting before it opens to the general public.

https://www.elmwoodparkzoo.org/events

Saturday • December 3

Children’s Event with Peter Catalanotto

Doylestown Bookshop 11:00 am

Join us in welcoming Peter Catalanotto as he visits the Doylestown Bookshop for a special children’s event Saturday, December 3rd, at 11:00 AM. Peter Catalanotto has written seventeen books for children, including Monkey & Robot, More of Monkey & Robot, The Newbies, Question Boy Meets Little Miss Know-It-All, Ivan the Terrier, Matthew A.B.C., and Emily’s Art, of which School Library Journal said in a starred review, “whether viewed from afar or up close, this creative and heartfelt book is a masterpiece.” More information at doylestownbookshop.com/event

Saturday - Sunday • December 3 – 4

Holly Jolly Weekend

Peddlers Village 10:00 am – 5:00 pm

Celebrate the holidays at the Holly Jolly Weekend on Saturday & Sunday, December 3 and 4, with Santa Parades through the Village starting at 1:30 pm both days. Enjoy live musical entertainment. Visit the annual Gingerbread Competition and Display in the Red Barn throughout the weekend. peddlersvillage.com

December 3 – December 18

Brunch with Santa 10:00 am – 1:45 pm Saturdays & Sundays

Celebrate the holidays by enjoying brunch with Santa! Enjoy a delicious brunch buffet, meet one of our beloved education animals, and share your holiday wishes with Santa! elmwoodparkzoo.org

Sunday • December 4

Annual Family Concert

The Bucks County Symphony Orchestra presents its annual Family Concert at Central Bucks High School East in Buckingham on Sunday, December 4, at 3:00pm. The program, Strings, Winds and Fire, conducted by Music Director José Luis Domínguez, promises to delight music lovers of all ages! Adults $10 - Students Free. For ticket information and to learn more about Bucks County Symphony Orchestra visit BucksCountySymphony.org.

Sunday • December 4

Make & Take Workshop Board and Brush Times Vary

Join us for a Make & Take workshop We provide all the materials and instruct you step-by-step to create a beautiful piece for your home or for a gift. Choose from a variety of paint colors in the workshop. Please note that due to the size of these projects, no personalization is accepted. Pre-registration is required. We look forward to seeing you soon! Check the website for registration and time slots. boardandbrush.com/doylestown

some level of resonance of personality. No aspiration is made to feel less important than another within the narrative. And there is undoubtedly something to take away from each of the sisters’ journeys and resolutions. However, for the sake of the message, it is the depiction of Jo March that most vitally pertains to the little women of today.

Jo’s refuses of a love interest in the name of putting her own goals before conforming to the norms of 19th-century society. The story offers the needed understanding in today’s age that a young girl’s future should lie within her own hands. Her desires and aspirations should be achievable without notions of gender-based obligations. A bit of inorganic ending brings a lesson of its own.

Hopefully, Little Women will aid not only in relieving some of those winter blues but in reminding today’s generation that with the right to liberty, there must come the right to choose.

Sundays • December 4, 11, 18

Breakfast with Santa at Giggleberry Fair

Peddlers Village 10:00 am – 11:30 am

Kick off the Christmas season with a wonderful breakfast in the company of Santa and Mrs. Claus! Enjoy a buffet-style breakfast, storytime with Mrs. Claus, special treats, a $5 game card, and time to play at Giggleberry Mountain, the Grand Carousel, and Giggles Discovers. Cost: $33 per child, $21 per adult. peddlersvillage.com

Thursday - Friday • December 8 & 9

Gingerbread Decorating Workshops

Peddlers Village 5:30 pm – 8:00 pm Families, friends, and kids of all ages will have a chance to decorate their very own Gingerbread Houses for the holiday season! We put an ease to the Christmas tradition by doing the hard work for you. Leave the mess and headache for us and enjoy using homemade royal icing and mounds of multi-colored candies to create a treasured piece of work. Houses will be pre-assembled by our staff for easy decorating. More information can be found online! https://peddlersvillage.com

Friday • December 16

Luminaria Stroll

Peace Valley Park 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm Stroll the meandering trail following the flickering lights and take in the glow of the season. Rain Date: December 17. Open to all ages. Online registration is required. peacevalleynaturecenter.org

Saturday • December 17

Brunch with Santa at Cock ‘n Bull Restaurant Peddlers Village 9:00am – 11:30am, 12:30pm – 3:00pm Enjoy a magical brunch with Santa Claus at Cock ‘n Bull Restaurant. Jingle the Elf will welcome guests, including Santa and Mrs. Claus, for a delicious brunch and fun-filled event featuring story time, Christmas magic, a sing-along with Santa, and craft-making. Reservations required. More information can be found online! peddlersvillage.com

December 18 – December 24

Hanukkah Celebration

Celebrate the Festival of Lights with Sesame Place’s Menorah Lighting Ceremony. Join a local

Thursday • December 22

Christmas Storytime with Estaban, the Green Crayon!

Doylestown Bookshop 6:00 pm

Join us for a special visit from Esteban, the Green Crayon! During this special storytime, we will read the newest Crayons book from Drew Daywalt and Oliver Jeffers - Green is for Christmas, along with activities for the kids. Don’t forget to bring your camera! This event is in partnership with Discover Doylestown. doylestownbookshop.com/event

Saturday • December 24

‘Twas the Night Celebration

Sesame Place 5:00 pm

Gather around the Sesame Street Neighborhood with your favorite Sesame Street friends for a special Christmas Eve celebration as we wish Santa Claus good luck on the eve of his Big Ride with a dazzling, Christmas spirit filled send-off! https://sesameplace.com

December 26 – January 1

Kwanzaa Celebration 4:30 pm

(Capacity limited. First come, first served.)

Join us for a festive and fun Kwanzaa Celebration! Join your favorite Sesame Street friends each night of Kwanzaa for a special Storytime and Kinara lighting as we learn all about the celebrations and principles of Kwanzaa. sesameplace.com

Wednesday • December 28

Quiet Mornings

Elmwood Park Zoo 11:00 am – 12:00 pm

On the last Wednesday* of every month, the zoo will open an hour early for Quiet Mornings. This is a great opportunity for our guests with special needs and their families to enjoy a more relaxing visit to the zoo. Quiet Mornings offer a less-crowded setting before the zoo opens to the general public. There will also be exclusive giraffe feedings available (weather dependent). elmwoodparkzoo.org

cantor, Baby Bear, who celebrates Hanukkah with his family, Grover, and more of your Sesame Street friends as we play a game of dreidel, light the Menorah, and learn all about Hanukkah! Join us for the lighting ceremony at 4:30pm on the Sesame Street Neighborhood. sesameplace.com

What’s The Deal With the Housing Market Freeze?

Patrick Mencel Special to The Cardinal

Throughout 2022, mortgage rates have gone from below three percent to over seven percent. Home prices are beginning to drop, but not enough to make up for the high rates. The difference between a three percent and a seven percent loan equates to hundreds of dollars on a monthly payment.

I’ve always advised clients to borrow money, and to borrow as much as possible. That is because I viewed having cash in the bank to be more valuable in case new home buyers come across any hardships or liabilities with their new home. However, recently I had to change my mindset and advise clients to put more money down to lower their monthly payments.

There are a few exceptions regarding home prices dropping. For example, I have seen home values still soar depending on location. Due to the demand the pandemic created, certain areas became hot spots. However, this is not the case for most.

If you pay attention to most current listings, if not priced appropriately, you will see price drops anywhere from $50K to $20k every week. It is not surprising to see a home sell for 30 percent less than it would have six months ago.

Despite the downward shift in home prices, the rates are pricing a lot of buyers out or causing them to stand on the sidelines and watch, wondering if the prices will continue to drop. If we could get some clarity as to where rates are headed, then I’d be able to give you an idea of where the home prices are headed months down the road.

The reality is that no one really knows. We can make predictions based

on inflation and lower interest rates, but again, that is all speculation. What would be nice is some sort of stability. If rates could stay within the same .25 point for a given amount of time, we could get a good idea of true market value. Until then, it remains unclear.

The “wait and see” mentality that is keeping buyers from pursuing a home purchase is also the same reason new listings continue to be limited. However, the overall month-end inventory is being pushed up by the fact that homes are remaining on the market longer and rolling over into the next month.

That brings up another issue: not only are sellers wondering where they would go and what their monthly payments would look like but they’re now worried their home will sit much longer awaiting a decent offer. All in all, fewer buyers, more buyers on pause, and nervous sellers add up to what looks to be a housing market freeze.

My advice is to look for deeper motivation. If you are looking to buy, don’t put it off. A lender with whom I work always compares the housing market to stocks. If you want in, then get in.

Remember that mortgage rates are always temporary and will always fluctuate. And be mindful of the fact that when rates do come down, housing prices will increase again, and competition will ramp up significantly.

Patrick Mencel is a real estate agent with The Artisan Group at Compass Real Estate. He has a passion for renovation and home restoration and sees the potential and value in properties that are often overlooked. He goes to bat for his clients with unwavering loyalty and determination. Patrick’s goal is to help you find your dream home, vacation home, or the right investment property.

Pennsylvania Biotechnology Center of Bucks County Lands $5M

Grant for New Life Sciences Initiative

State legislators joined the CEOs of the nonprofit Pennsylvania Biotechnology Center (PABC) and Brandywine Realty Trust to announce today that the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is making a $5 million investment in the PABC’s new Academic Innovation Zone program.

Ranked as one of the nation’s most successful life sciences incubators, the PABC operates two facilities. The headquarters and original location is in Doylestown, and B+labs at Cira Center is in Philadelphia. B+labs is run by the PABC in partnership with Brandywine Realty Trust.

The PABC’s Academic Innovation Zone initiative will directly support early stage companies and academic technologies in the life sciences at both its Doylestown and Philadelphia incubators. More than 100 companies, mostly small to mid-size science, research and pharmaceutical entities, are PABC member companies. Nearly 50 have operations in the Doylestown facility and 15 are located in B+labs.

“This sizable grant not only will allow us to expand our services to help promising companies grow, it is a significant statement from some of the state’s top elected officials about their confidence in the PABC,” Louis P. Kassa III, MPA, president and CEO of the PABC said. “The Pennsylvania Biotechnology Center has produced several thousand new jobs and generated more than $10 billion dollars in economic impact over the past 16 years, and the Academic Innovation Zone will greatly enhance and accelerate our efforts.”

Kassa said credit for this foresighted investment goes to state Senator Vincent Hughes of Philadelphia, Senator Steve Santarsiero of Bucks County and

Representative Matt Bradford of Montgomery County. All three visited the PABC last year to get a firsthand look at the operation.

“Investments in biotechnology will help transform Pennsylvania’s economy,” said Senator Santarsiero said. “We have an opportunity to build a biotech corridor, beginning right here in Bucks County, that will connect with other hubs across Pennsylvania and enable us to compete with other states and countries in this industry. This is an important investment, but as a state we still have much more to do.”

The Academic Innovation Zone program will offer turnkey laboratory and business services, available for rapid use by entrepreneurs or newly formed companies with promising ideas but limited resources.

Warminster Organization Celebrates

Dedication of 125th Affordable Home in the Area

A Bucks County organization is celebrating the dedication of one of their countless affordable homes recently built in the area.

Habitat for Humanity of Bucks County, headquartered at 539 Jacksonville Road, Suite 100 in Warminster, recently held a ceremony that celebrated their 125th home being built in the area. The home, located at 5802 Beaver Dam Road in Bristol, was opened up for a family in need of affordable housing.

“Habitat for Humanity’s staff, their donors, volunteers, and partners are making our dreams come true. We are very grateful and can hardly wait to move and pay it forward,” said Jenny, the single mother of two boys who will be the residents of the new home.

Under Habitat Bucks’ new land trust model, the homebuyer purchases only the house, not the land, making the price more affordable. The homebuyer also agrees to limit their proceeds when they sell, so another low-income household can afford to purchase the home, preserving the home’s affordability in the future.

biz bits

Dreams Come True Travel Receives 2022 Best of Doylestown Award

Dreams Come True Travel, LLC has been selected for the 2022 Best of Doylestown Award in the Travel Agency category by the Doylestown Award Program.

Each year, the Doylestown Award Program identifies companies that we believe have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and business category. These are local companies that enhance the positive image of small business through service to their customers and our community. These exceptional companies help make the Doylestown area a great place to live, work and play.

Various sources of information were gathered and analyzed to choose the winners in each category. The 2022 Doylestown Award Program focuses on quality, not quantity. Winners are determined based on the information gathered both internally by the Doylestown Award Program and data provided by third parties.

The Doylestown Award Program is an annual awards program honoring the achievements and accomplishments of local businesses throughout the Doylestown area. Recognition is given to those companies that have shown the ability to use their best practices and implemented programs to

generate competitive advantages and longterm value.

The Doylestown Award Program was established to recognize the best of local businesses in our community. The organization works exclusively with local business owners, trade groups, professional associations and other business advertising and marketing groups. Their mission is to recognize the small business community’s contributions to the U.S. economy.

Bucks County Foundation Appoints New Board Member

Bucks County Foundation is proud to announce the appointment of Dr. Benjamin Rusiloski to its Board of Directors. Dr. Rusiloski is Delaware Valley University’s (DelVal) fourteenth president and has served DelVal for more than 27 years.

Beginning his journey with DelVal in 1994, Dr. Rusiloski joined the University’s faculty as an assistant professor of chemistry. Since then, he has served as professor, chaired two academic departments, served as dean of the School of Life and Physical Sciences, served as Vice President for Academic Affairs and dean of the faculty, and served as interim president. Dr. Rusiloski assumed his role as president in October of 2021.

“We are pleased to welcome Dr. Rusiloski to our board of directors and are confident that Benjamin will bring a

tremendous amount of relevant experience and insight to the Bucks County Foundation as we continue our mission to enhance the quality of life for residents of the county by stimulating philanthropic opportunity and developing long-term financial assets to meet a wide range of the community’s charitable needs” said board of trustee president, Grace M. Deon, Esquire.

Dr. Rusiloski is also a long-time resident of Doylestown, Pennsylvania and continues to serve the community where he lives and works.

About Bucks County Foundation

Founded in 1979, The Bucks County Foundation is a charitable trust created to serve Bucks County and the people who live here. The Foundation helps individuals who love this community and want to support it in perpetuity-by establishing a named fund, leaving a bequest in a will, or supporting an agency endowment.

Doylestown Township Receives $500,000 Grant for New Community Rec Center

Doylestown Township just received another $500,000 from a state program to build its new community recreation center.

The grant was announced this week by State Senator Steve Santarsiero, who secured the money. The funds are coming from the state’s Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP).

In June of this year, Santarsiero delivered a $1 million grant from the same program for the recreation center. The center will be a multi-use structure located on the campus of the township building on Wells Road.

Construction on the center is expected to take place in 2023. Township officials hope to open it in 2024.

The latest $500,000 grant will be used to remove outdated activity courts and build new sports courts on the site. Funds will also be used to build indoor classrooms in the community center’s building.

RACP is a Pennsylvania program that focuses on the acquisition and construction of regional economic, cultural, civic, recreational and historical improvement projects. RACP projects typically have a regional focus and help boost the economies of the surrounding communities.

BUCKS COUNTY GEMS

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