The Doylestown Cardinal - October 2022

The Cardinal

UFO’s Over Doylestown?

By Eric Mintel Special to The Cardinal

Overthe years, Bucks County has received its fair share of historical hijinx with encounters of ghostly ghouls and spooky specters. Lately, those encounters took an otherworldly turn as folks are reporting strange lights in the night sky.

Satellites? No. Drones? No.

What people are seeing all over Doylestown and vicinity is a very bright slow moving object with multiple lights around it. One thing that always accompanies such reports is the observation that the object in question does not make any sound.

As a paranormal investigator, I come across these reports often. Here are some recent ones that reached me.

In August, a woman from Doylestown was closing her guest room window and saw this brightly lit object. She was so moved by what she saw that she drew it and sent the drawing to me. In May, during her break, a nurse at Doylestown Hospital looked out the window and saw a set of triangular lights moving in the distance over Chalfont. She captured the anomaly on video. In April, another woman saw multiple sets of lights hovering

Spooky Halloween Activities In Bucks County

By Natalya Bucuy The Cardinal Contributing Writer

Ladies

and gents, fall is officially here. That means it’s time to get ready for the spookiest time of the year. That is, of course, if you haven’t started decorating your house for Halloween the last week of August just because you can. And if you did, we see you, witches and warlocks!

With so much scary fun going on in Bucks County this month, it’s great that we have a whole month to trick-ortreat-yo’self to all of them. Here are 7 spookiest things to do in October for a howling good time.

1. New Hope Railroad: The Halloween Event

The New Hope Railroad promises to “frighten the strongest of heart and test the nerves of all onboard” with

experiences at the train station and on a train ride with its Halloween Event. The event runs on weekend evenings October 8 - Oct. 30. For a more family-frendly adventure, the Railroad also offers Trick or Treat Train Rides, also running on the weekends through October.

For more information and tickets visit https://www. newhoperailroad.com

2. Mercer Museum Movies at the Castle: Labyrinth Mercer Museum’s hallways are full of fascinating history, extremely spooky at times. The seventh floor of the building, for example, features the infamous Crime-and-Punishment exhibit, complete with gallows and other historic instruments of ghastly nature.

Stick around after the museum tour on Oct. 20 for a screening of the Labyrinth (1986).

Pine2Pink Leads Breast Cancer Awareness Month

By JD Latorre

The Cardinal Contributing Writer

It’s that time of year again when the streetlights turn pink, and the Pine St. street sign gets a facelift. October is Breast Cancer Awareness month. Our Doylestown community brings this awareness to another level, thanks to the local non-profit organization, Pine2Pink. What started in Doylestown five years ago with Keith Fenimore, his wife Kristina, and mom Marianne (a breast cancer survivor) has now spread to 7 neighboring communities. The organization raised over a quarter million dollars that has helped over 1000 local breast cancer patients.

This year, Pine2Pink has 55 official sponsors and 83 special Pine2Pink offers at local businesses across Bucks County. With over 20 events happening throughout October, there’s an opportunity for all to come and support this cause. Here’s what five local community members are saying about the Pine2Pink organization and why they got involved.

“We got involved with Pine2Pink years ago for a number of reasons. We know the money stays here, helping local people in our community. It also hits home for us. We’ve sadly had employees pass from breast cancer and have supported others who have gone through battles themselves or with family members. When Keith approached us, we knew it would be a good partnership to join so others in the community had that same support. We believe in what the Pine2Pink Foundation does and are excited to be the presenting sponsor this year.” - Thompson Organization General Manager Pat McGinley

photo by Kevin Crawford Imagery • www.kevincrawfordimagery.com

New Hope Railroad Station

Way of The Doylestown Ninja

By Nate Schneller The Cardinal Editorial Intern

Recently, you may have heard through the grapevine about a certain resident roaming in Doylestown. Someone who embraces the shadows and uses his skill to bring joy and excitement to our little town. Yes, I am talking about the Doylestown Ninja.

If you haven’t heard, the Doylestown Ninja is something of a local social media star. A look at his Instagram reveals a guy in a mask, wearing all black. His mission is to spread positivity and promote local businesses. I recently had the opportunity to talk to the Doylestown Ninja about what he does and how he got started.

Ninja is a lifelong Doylestown resident. “I’ve been here all my life,” he says. “I went to school here and I graduated from Central Bucks East.” He has since remained in the area.

When he was younger, Ninja tells me, he had a much different personality. “I was very timid and introverted, but I wanted to do more with my life.” Eventually, due to certain life circumstances, Ninja decided it was time for a change in attitude. “I decided to step out of my shell,” he says. “I just started telling myself, ‘You can do it.’ And it worked. It’s kind of simple. If you start telling yourself you’re awesome, then you will be.’”

The attitude change and his desire to do more would eventually lead to the birth of the Doylestown Ninja. Things got started back in 2020, at the start of the pandemic. Wanting to help cheer people up, Ninja decided to dress up and go out. “It started as a joke. I went to Applebees and filmed myself doing ninja katas. People in the window just stared and laughed. I’m sure they were like, ‘what the heck is that?’”

Eventually, as he went out more, people started noticing his videos, and he developed a fanbase. (He now has over 11,000 followers on instagram(@doylestownninja) These videos include him hanging out with members of the community and working to promote local businesses. His videos include interactions

with Makers Off Main and Fabby-Do, among others. Whatever the content, Ninja’s videos are filled with silliness and positive energy.

A major part of Ninja’s activities is upholding his principle of dressing up as he pleases. “I encourage people to go out and wear what they want,” he says. This is something Ninja embodies completely as his appearance changes often. Past looks include a mohawk and blonde hair. He also has a specific Star Wars themed version of his ninja outfit he calls “Darth Ninja.”

Going along with these concepts, Ninja is also a big fan of cosplay. In the past, he’s dressed up as Captain America, a favorite of his. “Wearing that suit, you take on the character. I’ll call people ‘ma’am’ or bring on inside jokes like, ‘on your left.’” Besides the Captain, Ninja has other outfits in the works, like a Mandalorian outfit as well as a couple of other projects.

I’m  glad I had the chance to talk with Ninja and I was very impressed with his positive outlook and philosophy. It’s clear, he cares very deeply about the community and just being nice to people.

“Man, this whole frickin’ world is one community,” he says. And that’s a wise bit of ninja wisdom right there. So, if you’re ever in Doylestown, keep your eyes peeled. The Doylestown Ninja could be lurking in the shadows.

Diwali Celebration on the Mercer Museum

By Sheela Rai Special to The Cardinal

Every year in the fall, millions of people across the world celebrate Diwali, the festival of lights. On October 23rd,  Doylestown will host its second annual Diwali celebration on the Mercer Museum Greens.

Bringing the traditions of Diwali into one celebration is a feat, as folks around the globe celebrate Diwali differently. The holiday is embedded in various South Asian cultures, but also has religious origins.

In Hinduism, Diwali symbolizes the victory of Lord Rama over Ravana and the end of Lord Rama’s exile. For many Hindus, the celebration is split into five days of festivities, and marks the beginning of a new year. In Sikhism, Diwali commemorates the release of the 6th guru, Guru Hargobind, from prison. The Golden Temple lights up for the occasion, as it did back in 1619, when the guru was released. In Jainism, the festival marks the anniversary of the liberation of Mahavira’s soul, and his attainment of nirvana.

Desis of Doylestown (DoD) organizes the celebration in Doylestown. Inspired by the work of Central Bucks West student Paree Pasi to bring the holiday of Diwali into the school calendar, the group started with only three members in 2021. Since then it has grown into a non-for-profit with

over 100 members.

The group has run several community events, including the first Saree Run in the country, and the festivals of Eid and Holi. Its mission is simple, yet large - to open the hearts and minds to South Asian culture in the local community. The group aims to bring together non-Desis and Desis, people of Pakistani, Indian, Nepali, Sri Lankan, and Bangladeshi origin. In addition to festive celebrations, DoD works to educate the community on Desi customs and traditions, and advocates for all people of race, gender, color, sexuality, and religion. The ultimate goal is to create a community where everyone belongs.

The celebration in town will joyfully share the themes of light over darkness and the victory of good over evil -  themes that are relevant today more than ever. The familyfriendly and free to the public, the festival will feature various retail vendors, food for purchase, kids crafts, dance performances, a live dance class, henna tattoos, sparklers, and music with an onsite DJ. Expect to see folks dressed up in various attire of Desi origin: traditional Sarees, Salwar Kameez, Kurta Pajamas, and of course, lots of color and bling that accompanies any Desi gathering.

Come celebrate Diwali on the majestic greens of Mercer Museum, 84 S. Pine St.  on Oct. 23, 1 PM - 4 PM, and enjoy music, dancing, food, and friendship.

Travis Manion Foundation Event October 9

By Sarah Peters The Cardinal Contributing Writer

If you live in the Doylestown area, chances are, you’ve heard of the 9/11 Heroes Run. It’s an annual event that has been taking place since 2008. Today, we’re here to shed light on the organization that supports it, The Travis Manion Foundation.

The Travis Manion Foundation

Travis Manion, a fallen Iraqi War Veteran, was a Doylestown native who attended Lasalle High School and became a wrestler at the Naval Academy. Just before his second deployment to Iraq, his brother-in-law asked him if he really needed to go back overseas. Manion’s reply has since become the ethos and slogan for the Travis Manion Foundation - “if not me, then who?”

Manion’s mother, Janet, founded the organization in 2007 as a legacy to continue Travis’s spirit of giving. Janet passed in 2012 and currently, Travis’ sister Ryan is the president. The organization’s mission has evolved immensely over the years. It has taken on Janet’s big-picture vision of empowering veterans and families of the fallen to develop character in future generations. “I never imagined that this organization would be where it is today,” Ryan says. “But never underestimate the passion of a mother.”

The organization’s goal is to continue educating today’s youth about the significance of 9/11 and the sacrifices local community members made in the last 21 years. The Manion Foundation events honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

What is the Impact of This Organization on Our Veteran Community?

Data shows that up to 55 percent of veterans feel disconnected when they return from military service. The foundation provides veterans and their families opportunities to stay active in the

community while supporting their mental health. Since its founding, the organization established 27 chapters, all of which offer a variety of programs.

The “Character Does Matter” program, for example, provides training to allow their “Spartans” to teach the younger generations important skills. The veterans visit schools, youth groups, and community centers. They give presentations to students about incredible role models, leadership skills, and character development. It’s a win-win because the veterans still serve the community, while the children learn about positive influences and build confidence in their own strengths. “Playing a small role in [children’s] development as people of character has been a remarkably humbling and rewarding experience,” says Air Force veteran and mentor Michael Morand.

Another program, “Expeditions,” serves families of the fallen. It helps keep the memories of the fallen alive and figure out their next steps. Groups of families who have lost veterans go on expeditions together to process their grief with others who have had similar experiences. Together, they serve the community in honor of their loved ones.

How Can I Get Involved?

If you are a veteran and would like to continue to serve the community as you transition back into your new role at home, the Foundation would love to hear from you.

Attend or participate in a 9/11 Heroes Run in Doylestown. The 15th annual event takes place on October 9. For more information visit: www.travismanion.org/ events/911-heroes-run

The Travis Manion Foundation is uniquely qualified to do the work involved in supporting veterans. Anyone can offer support through donations, attendance at events, or by following them on social media. It’s a great way to continue empowering veterans and families of the fallen.

Photo by Jules@fortheloveofdoylestown

The Roaming Realtor

This Olde House

Cemetery House

Halloween is coming and ghosts, goblins, and dancing skeletons are headed our way!

Perfect time to visit the spectacular mysterious house that sits in the northeast corner of the Doylestown Cemetery on East Court Street. The house catches the passerby’s eye due to its unique style. One could say, it resembles a deliciously frosted white cake.

In 1849, a group of compassionate citizens founded the burial grounds as a Victorian garden cemetery. They purchased the 10acre tract specifically for the purpose of starting a non-profit, nondenominational cemetery where all people could be received and buried. Over the decades since, the cemetery expanded to the current 33 acres.

In 1854, the black and white Italianate-style house on the property, marked by ornate architectural features of a “gingerbread house’’, was built. The cemetery caretakers resided there during their service and used it as the office for the cemetery.

Though the Italianate Style originated in Great Britain, the style gets its name from its references to Italian Renaissance designs. The style first developed as the Italianate Villa Style. Seen as early as the 1830s, it served as a suitable design for substantial homes and country estates. During the Industrial Revolution, British architects used mass-produced cast-iron ornamentation to pay homage to the quaint, opulent farmhouses of the medieval Italian countryside. These farmhouses had a distinct irregular shape and seemed to fit naturally into their rustic settings, fulfilling an important objective of the Romantic Movement.

The most outstanding feature of an Italianate Villa is the square tower, topped with a bracketed cornice. This mid-19th century style became popular as the United States looked towards a romantic past to recreate in the present. Italianate buildings cropped up in the early 1840s and reached a high point after the 1850s before dying out in the 1880s.

over Lake Galena. The lights moved when she shined a laser pointer at them. She then also captured them on video.

These sightings, and millions like them, have been reported, in one way or another, since the beginning of the UFO wave of the 40’s and 50’s.

In 1947, Kenneth Arnold, an American aviator, spotted nine disc-like objects skipping through the sky while he was flying his single engine plane over Mount Rainier in Washington state. He recalled that they looked like saucers, skipping on water. Hence, the term was coined  - flying saucer.

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.

In May of 2022, Congress held its first hearing on UFOs in over 50 years. Under pressure from the government and the public, the Pentagon has established the Unidentified Aerial Phenomenon Task Force. The action makes it easier for the public to report UFOs, sightings of which run in the thousands every year. Whatever these entities are, they don’t seem to be a threat. Could they be from another world? The idea of extraterrestrials coming in for a visit and checking up on us is fascinating. But there is no way of knowing. And so for now, let’s look at the skies with an open mind and the distinct possibility that we are not alone.

Executive Editor/Publisher

Jeffrey “JD” Diaz • 267.824.2412

JD@DoylestownCardinal.com

Associate Publisher

David Ramoy • 267.824.2738

David@DoylestownCardinal.com

Managing Editor

Jessica Ramoy • 215.588.7748

Jess@DoylestownCardinal.com

Contributing Writers

Lily Appleby • Natalya Bucuy

Danielle Gannon • Tim Hansen • Lauren Heine

Jules • Julie Lachman • JD Latorre

Jeff Lavine • Laurie Liddy • Ariel Mann

Patrick Mencel • Eric Mintel • Sarah Peters

Brian Pultro • Sheela Rai • Dana Roberts

Nate Schneller • Nicolas and Stephen Servis

Jamie Stem • Charlotte Alsaadi

Staff Photographer

Jean-Paul de Guzman

Editorial Interns

Lily Appleby and Nate Schneller

For Advertising

Jay Pelc • 917.957.1713 JP4541@aol.com

Media Relations

Danielle Gannon • 267.980.2176

Danielle@DoylestownCardinal.com

Distribution

David Ramoy • 267.824.2738

David@DoylestownCardinal.com

Published by

The Doylestown Cardinal, LLC. PO Box 1486 • Doylestown, PA 18901

The Doylestown Cardinal is published monthly and distributed to over 150 locations throughout the Doylestown, Pennsylvania Area.

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

Local Spotlight with Danielle: Eric Mintel

By Danielle Gannon The Cardinal Contributing Writer

This month, with Halloween in mind, I was extremely intrigued to meet with Eric Mintel of Mintel Investigates, formerly known as, “The Bucks County Paranormal.”  Eric has lived most of his life in Upper Bucks County. He plays in a jazz quartet and hunts spirits and other mysterious characters in old homes, businesses, and even the woods

He has an online following, with which he shares stories about national and local Bucks County businesses he believes to be “haunted”. He has two shows on local Princeton TV -  “Talking Jazz with Eric Mintel” and “Bucks County Paranormal Investigations.”

Mintel began traveling to various areas across the country when people contacted him to confirm sightings of Bigfoot and mysterious spirits. Rather than staying strictly local, he and his production team decided to cover these incredible stories reported from all over the country.

His work is extensive and requires a lot of background history and investigation alongside a camera crew. He is currently working on two video productions. The first one

involves a 1759 farm house in Boyertown, believed to be haunted. The second - a restaurant in Bethlehem whose staff seems to be fighting with some less than desirable spirits.

In his work, Mintel is driven and aware. His life has taken him in this direction and he follows what’s right in front of him - good people, good energy, and good connection.

This fall, Mintel will deliver speeches at three collegestwo in Vermont and one in Syracuse, NY. These engagements involve screenings of his productions as well as Q & A sessions.

Locally, you can see Eric Mintel: October 1st at the Lehigh Valley ComicCon October 13th at the Doylestown Library 7pm October 30th at the Newtown Theater 7pm

“There’s a thin veil between here and there,” says Mintel. “The spirits are all around us.”

Follow him @eric_mintel_investigates and stay tuned for more. Something tells me we will be seeing a lot more of Eric in a very short period of time

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

The Doylestown Arts Festival brought Art, Music, and Joy to the Streets for its 31st Anniversary

Over 200 vendors lined the streets of historic Doylestown with tens of thousands coming out to show their support.

The Doylestown Arts Festival celebrated 31 years of showcasing local and regional art and creativity this past September 10th and 11th. The highly anticipated annual event drew upwards of an estimated 20,000 person crowd on Saturday, and several thousand

made their way out on Sunday in spite of the rain.

The massively successful event brought visitors from near and far, injecting a major economic boost to the local community, and supported over 150 independent artists and dozens of musicians and local businesses. With just over 200 vendors in total, the event covered much of downtown Doylestown, lining State Street, Main Street, Oakland Avenue, Hamilton Street, and the Hamilton Street Parking Lot with art and activities. With talent

ranging from professionals to students, the art, performances, and activities on display brought joy and wonder to many who explored the festival. By bringing the arts to the street, the showcase of regional creativity was accessible to all who sought to enjoy it.

“This festival remains my biggest and best of the entire year-- not only because it’s busy and sales are good, but because the vibe and atmosphere is so positive and so many of my customers have become friends that I look forward to seeing there. I look forward to next year!”, said artist Dar James.

The all-volunteer organizers and committee responsible for the festival worked for over ten months to carefully plan and execute the annual tradition, which is made free to the public in partnership with Discover Doylestown, The Borough of Doylestown, and dozens of local businesses, organizations, and residents. Behind the scenes of the festival, over 100 volunteers worked from before dawn until well after the crowds had gone home to make sure the event ran smoothly.

“It was a delightful Saturday and a tough but quite memorable Sunday. Without exception the volunteer team and management team were pleasant, excited, helpful and a pleasure to work with.” said JoAnne Sutkin, one of this year’s artists.

For thirty-one years, the Doylestown Arts Festival has upheld its mission

of spotlighting Doylestown and Bucks County for its commitment to art and culture, supporting local artists and businesses, and raising the accessibility of the arts for everyone in the community to experience.

With another successful year in the books, the Doylestown Arts Festival continues to be a highly respected festival both locally and throughout the region, drawing massive crowds and support. This year’s festival - especially Saturday - is believed to be one of its largest and most successful events yet according to volunteers and vendors.

“Beyond the work our volunteer team puts in, it is really the incredible pool of talent and this very unique community that helps us to create such an immersive and successful event. We are incredibly grateful not only to our vendors and partners, but to each and every person who came out to enjoy and support the festival”, said Paul Boger, who co-directs the event with his wife, Kris Boger, in a volunteer capacity each year.

The Doylestown Arts Festival is made possible by a small volunteer committee of Discover Doylestown, presented by the Thompson Organization, and supported by dozens of generous sponsors. Plans for the 32nd annual festival are already underway. For more information about this year’s festival, our sponsors, and our talented artists and musicians, please visit dtownartsfestival.com.

By Lily Appleby The Cardinal Editorial Intern

W ith Halloween around the corner, it is time to celebrate an arguably underappreciated genre: the ghost story.

Gothic fiction rose to prominence during the 1800s, with titles such as Frankenstein, Dracula, and Wuthering Heights defining the genre.

Though we have never given up on a good, spine-chilling read, the next big horror boom would come in the 1970s, with authors such as Steven King, William Peter Blatty, and Thomas Tyron. These authors stripped the original gothic tales of their dark romance and misty fields and replaced them with gore and toe-curling frights.

Whether you prefer corn fields abundant

with murderous clowns or women slowly going mad in the attics of old manors, Susan Hill is able to create a world which mixes the gothic elements of atmospheric fog, crumbling castles, and the horror genre’s characteristic withered ghosts. Her ability to have the reader’s heart racing with anticipation runs unmatched.

Written in 1983, The Woman in Black tells the fictional story of protagonist, Arthur Kipp. Hill introduces the reader to Arthur in his old age, on Christmas eve with his family. The children beg him to tell a ghost story. Arthur, though initially refusing, soon decides that recalling his chilling experience of the past may be the only way to truly put it behind him.

With this, we are transported into what feels like a hauntingly atmospheric 19th century landscape. Young and ambitious, Arthur dives headfirst into his work at Eel Marsh House, the home of a late client. His perseverance and misbeliefs throw Arthur into a number of blood-curdling experiences with the mysterious woman in black.

The Woman in Black, 200 pages in length, is far from a dreary read. My only qualm with the novel was how Arthur’s time in the peculiar village of Crythin Grifford concluded. Perhaps the slowing down of pace after previously tumultuous occurrences, but I found his departure missing some element of conflict that had been abundantly present throughout the book up to that point.

Nonetheless, the ending of the novel was exactly what I had wanted during my search for an accessible-to-read ghost story. It definitely made up for that lack of substance I had felt a few chapters prior. The haunting moment of realization dawns upon the reader in those very last pages. Then, the novel does what all good novels that intend to scare do and makes itself all too memorable.

Though the supernatural fiction market is hardly small, most of the attention goes to blood-sucking vampires and howling werewolves. If you want to give ghosts their due recognition, I’d highly recommend The Woman in Black.

Photography by Josh Mitchell

cardinal chirps

Fonthill Castle Site Improvement Plans Funded by State Grant Secured by Senator Santarsiero

Fonthill Castle, with the help of Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10), has secured a state grant in order to develop a master site plan for site improvements to the historic property and its 60+ acres of woodlands, amplifying Henry Mercer’s longlasting legacy in Bucks County.

support of Senator Santarsiero allows us to build upon Henry Mercer’s mission for the preservation and study of native woodlands, meadows, and bird and animal sanctuaries for the entire community to enjoy.”

‘Light The Night Pink’ Newtown Block Party To Take Over Historic State Street

Retailers unite to raise money for local breast cancer patients in need through Pine2Pink.

What: ‘Light the Night Pink’ is a block party in the heart of historic Newtown along State Street. This retailer driven effort is being led by Giovanni’s Fine Fashions, Newtown Pro-Shop, Ned’s Cigar Shop and Countryside Gallery & Custom Framing.

• Live music from Mid-Life Crisis

• Raffles from retailers and restaurants of State St. and the Newtown area

• A VIP Dunk Tank

• Desserts to be provided by Nothing Bundt Cakes

• Face painting

• Sip n’ Shops in participating stores

• Multiple retailers and restaurants extending operating hours

• Fox Chase Cancer Center and Rothman Institute representation will be on-site

• Local artisan vendors

Online registration for the costume contest is strongly recommended - no advanced registration is needed for families who just want to trick-or-treat. Keep your eyes peeled, you might see a coven of witches riding by on their flying bicycles!!

Costume Contest Registration

Put on your Halloween best and come join us on the lawn! This year’s contest features three categories: Best Costume, Best Group Costume, and Best Pet Costume. Advanced registration for the costume contest is strongly encouraged!

Trick-or-Treat

Trick-or-treating will begin after the contest wraps up just after 11 AM. If your business is interested in being a trickor-treat stop register below. Volunteers will distribute balloons to participating businesses on Friday, October 21st.

Volunteer

We need a few helping hands to get families checked in and safely into the downtown. If you are interested in lending a hand sign up below!

Eric Mintel Presents Paranormal Investigations

Bucks County PlayhouseEducation Offers In-Person Education Classes This Fall

Bucks County Playhouse is pleased to announce the lineup of in-person education programs being offered this fall. The three classes are Breaking into the Voiceover World, Improv for Adults and Acting for Adults, ages 15 and older. All three classes will take place in Lambertville Hall, 57 Bridge Street, Lambertville, NJ. 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. Visit www.bcptheater. org for more information and to register or contact Ellen Gallos, Assistant Director of Education with questions at ellen@ buckscountyplayhouse.org.

Breaking into the Voiceover World • October 3 – October 24 • Pete DeMeo

Mondays, from 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm

Built between 1908-1912, Fonthill Castle is located in the heart of Bucks County and was the home of Henry Mercer and served as both his home and showplace for his collection of tiles and prints. Today, Fonthill Castle operates as a historic house museum and community cultural gathering place that is managed by the Bucks County Historical Society. This $200,000 state grant includes a vital comprehensive site study of the entire property, including the woodlands, waterways, vehicular and pedestrian access, and environmental studies of natural flora and fauna, in order to improve community access and usage for residents and visitors.

“The Mercer Museum & Fonthill Castle are real treasures that we are fortunate to have right here in Doylestown, and encompass a diverse and fascinating collection of art, history and culture,” said Senator Santarsiero. “What many people don’t realize is that Henry Mercer cared deeply about the nature surrounding the buildings as well, which includes an extensive network of trails on the expansive Fonthill Castle property. I am excited to see how the Bucks County Historical Society will be improving the property to make the Fonthill Castle property more accessible for the community and visitors alike.”

“The Bucks County Historical Society is grateful for this opportunity to enhance Fonthill Castle’s 60+ acres in the heart of Doylestown,” said Kyle McKoy, President and CEO. “The funding through the

Who: Pine2Pink is a local 501(c)(3) nonprofit that has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for LOCAL breast cancer patients in treatment and recovery across Bucks County. Pine2Pink will have a presence in Newtown the entire Month of October to raise money for local breast cancer patients

Why: Retailers on State St. wanted to partner with Pine2Pink to encourage the community to unite in the name of friends, family and neighbors battling breast cancer and raise funds to help them through treatment and recovery.

When: Thursday, October 6 from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Where: State St., Newtown PA

Contact: Matthew Arlen - 215-760-9726 - mpa167@comcast.net

Spooktacular Costume Contest & Parade in Doylestown October 22

The name Eric Mintel may bring to mind great jazz music, but on October 13 the jazz pianist and band leader will be featured in a performance demonstrating another talent – investigating the paranormal.

In celebration of the Halloween season, the Friends of the Doylestown Library will host Eric Mintel Investigates: Paranormal Projection Room, featuring the work of he and his team of paranormal investigators, who travel the country investigating all things paranormal, including sightings of UFOs, ghosts, Bigfoot, and Dogman.

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.

Improv for Adults • October 6 –November 17 (No class on November 3) • Will Dennis

Thursdays, from 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm, October 6, October 13, October 20, October 27, November 10, November 17

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.

Acting For Adults • October 11 –November 29 • June Ballinger 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+.

This free family event begins on the lawn of the Bucks County Administration Building (55 East Court Street) on Saturday, October 22nd at 10:30 AM! Join us in your Halloween best for a costume contest and trick-or-treating through the downtown.

“People are seeing something out there,” said Mintel, “and Eric Mintel Investigates is always on the case!”

The presentation will be held Thursday, October 13, from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m., in the Pearl Buck room of the Doylestown Library, 150 S. Pine St., Doylestown.

Preregistration is required – send an email to: friendsofdoylestownlibrary@ gmail.com A $10 donation (cash or check) is requested and will be collected at the door.

“We’re so excited to be able to offer such an interesting program to the community,” said Kathy MacClean, Friends program chairperson. “Eric Mintel has such compelling information and video to share.”

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

Regal Cinemas Closes Bucks County Location

The Regal Richland Crossing movie theater off Route 309 in Quakertown shuttered on September 15, the company announced on its website. Regal’s parent company Cineworld Group LLC filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy earlier this month.

“The pandemic was an incredibly difficult time for our business, with the enforced closure of cinemas and huge disruption to film schedules that has led us to this point,” Cineworld CEO Mooky Greidinger said.

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

Trick Or Treat Train in New Hope

The Railroad offers a safe place for families to enjoy all the fun and excitement of Halloween. Bring the kids and climb aboard our 45 minute Trick or Treat Excursion. Children of all ages are encouraged to come dressed in their favorite costumes, helping to add to the train’s already child friendly and festive atmosphere.

Enjoy the trip, while participating in the live reading of Spookley the Square Pumpkin. Cheerful, seasonal songs will also be performed by one of the railroad’s musicians. After arriving back in New Hope, passengers will have the opportunity to trick or treat around the station platform for more treats and surprises with our costumed characters!

Official railroad trick or treat bags, assorted trinkets, and candy will be handed out both onboard the train as well as at the station! All ages are welcome! Tickets must be purchased online.

Dates: October 8 - 30

Recurrence: Recurring weekly on Sunday, Friday, Saturday

Address: 32 W Bridge St, New Hope, PA

Phone: (215) 862-2332

Price: Check website for details.

Visit: www.newhoperailroad.com/ tricktreatexcursion

Senator Steve Santarsiero, Linda Hodgdon, Chairof the Bucks County Historical Society Board ofTrustees, and Kyle McKoy, President & CEO of the Bucks County Historical Society photography courtesy of Beth Marshall

Get to Know a Doylestownian: Jasmine Craig

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. In recognition of October being Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we interviewed Jasmine Craig (she/her).

Craig is a Community Educator at A Woman’s Place, Bucks County’s community-based social change organization committed to the empowerment of women and to ending intimate and domestic violence. A Woman’s Place (AWP) started as a storefront, drop-in domestic violence counseling center in Sellersville, PA in 1976. Above that storefront center was AWP’s first shelter for women seeking safety from abuse. The first woman seeking safety arrived with her two children at the tiny, one-room shelter apartment on Christmas Eve 1976.

I’ve lived in the Doylestown area for... 13 years. My favorite thing about my home is... that it reflects my husband and me so perfectly.

My household includes... my husband, my two middle school-aged children, my three cats, and my dog.

I met my husband... while volunteering on the Obama campaign in Doylestown. We had our first date when he got back, and got married 6 months later. We will be celebrating our 14th wedding anniversary in November. The best thing we do for our relationship is... stay curious. We let each other be individuals and are genuinely curious and excited about seeing new progress, changes, and interests that the other is experiencing. Curiosity allows us to remain fluid as we travel the journey of life together, instead of becoming stagnant.

Our favorite spot in Doylestown to go to is... Hopscotch!

The vibe is chill, the people are marvelous, and we always feel welcome.

The shows I am watching right now are... Hallmark fall movies! It’s my guilty pleasure and I am a romantic!

My favorite thing to do with my kids right now is anything. Since they’re teens, I’ll take whatever time they give me. I enjoy being active, so my youngest is teaching me to skateboard with them. My oldest enjoys hiking and swimming so we do that together.

I graduated from... Temple University, where I majored in organizational communication and management and minored in Political Science.

I’ve worn many different hats in my career, which have brought me to see myself as a community educator and social change advocate. Perhaps my favorite positions have been engaging in community advocacy and activism. I find most fulfillment when I am partnering with our community. At the end of the workday, I... grab a glass of white wine and sit outside with my dog. I do some yoga, some meditation, and spend quality time with the family. Then I grab a book for the evening.

Right now, I am reading.... I am always reading two books: a romance book and a book for personal growth. Currently I’m reading “The Heart of the Buddha’s Teachings.”

Some books on my reading list are: The Intersectional Environmentalist by Leah Thomas, All About Love by Bell Hooks, Body Becoming: A path to our liberation by Robyn Henderson-Espinoza, and The Book of Joy by the Dalai Lama.

A book I would recommend everyone should read is There is absolutely no way I could pick just one. Read everything you can get your hands on! Read everything that invites us to live more expansively, and creatively, and wisely, and kindly, and purposefully.

My favorite form of self-care is... reading, hot baths, time with my dog, and being active in nature. On the weekends I’m usually running, hiking, kayaking, visiting orchards and nature centers, or doing outdoor yoga or meditation.

I came to my current position at A Woman’s Place after I experienced an acute trauma, developed PTSD, and was irrevocably changed. After spending a year immersed in intensive therapies, I realized that I needed to adjust my professional career path. Fortunately, I had the experience of volunteering at In Full Swing, the thrift store of A Woman’s Place. I was able to build my capacity again, my professional self-confidence, and continue to invest in a community-based organization.

My current role is.... a community educator. My role is focused on abuse prevention through educating students, educators, and caregivers about unhealthy and healthy behaviors in relationships. I create our youth programming and facilitate workshops in classrooms and other community education spaces throughout Bucks County.

Community outreach is so important because...that’s how change happens. One of my favorite sayings is “collective liberation requires collective care.” As we collectively care for each other, we collectively liberate each other.

When facilitating workshops and programs, I... engage with my audience in a relevant and meaningful way that is focused on empowerment and awareness. Relational violence is a community issue that impacts everyone. It’s important that I help dismantle stereotypes or biases about domestic violence and focus on the interpersonal and intrapersonal skills that nurture healthy relationships. On any given day, I can be facilitating workshops with 4th grade students, 11th graders, adult guidance counselors, or parents.

My favorite thing about my job is... figuring out how to create, structure, organize, and educate in a creative and motivational way across many different audiences. It’s a huge win when students say “Oh, I never thought about it that way before.”

Most people don’t know that A Woman’s Place.... isn’t just an emergency hotline or organization. We offer a variety of services free and open to any qualifying community member including trauma-informed counseling, group therapy, empowerment programs, legal support, temporary and transitional housing, safety and goal planning, and more. We even offer some retail therapy with our thrift store In Full Swing!

The emergency shelter for women experiencing domestic violence in Bucks County... is in a secure and confidential location. It can house about 7 families at a time, which includes woman-identifying adults and their children.

Currently, we have separate funds to accommodate emergency housing for anyone who is not womanidentifying. Our safe house residents have access to free toiletries and hygiene items, children’s items, food, and can shop for free at our thrift store. The focus for our safe house residents, and all our clients, is to regain a sense of safety, empowerment, autonomy, and justice in their lives. The hotline for A Woman’s Place... is the organization’s main hub. If you need help, or someone you know needs help, you can call the hotline at 1-800-220-8116 for both emergency and non-emergency support.

During Domestic Violence Awareness Month, one thing that people should know is... domestic violence is prolific. Since we are all relational beings, we all have the potential to experience relational violence. Also, domestic violence isn’t just physical. Abusers use many different forms of control to reduce power and security. Domestic violence includes emotional abuse, mental and psychological abuse, financial abuse, sexual abuse, technological abuse, and verbal abuse. Part of awareness and prevention is understanding unhealthy red flag behaviors and how to respond to them before they progress into a cycle of abuse.

The most important message parents, caregivers, and adults should convey to children, teenagers, and young adults regarding domestic violence is... that anyone can experience it. Learning personal boundaries, how to express them, and how to respond when they are crossed is empowering. However, abuse is never the survivor’s fault. A Woman’s Place works to help youth and teens navigate life at top-speed while still developing their sense of self.

If a person is concerned that someone they know is experiencing domestic violence of any kind, they can. speak up with compassion and curiosity. Show genuine concern, listen without judgment, avoid demands or control over the person’s behavior. Call our hotline and encourage them to do so as well. Use the resources available on our website. Most importantly, focus on the strength and bravery of the survivor and avoid victim blaming or shaming.

For those looking to get involved or support A Woman’s Place, the biggest need right now is... donations and volunteer hours. Monetary donations are always welcome, and there is a donation list for our safe house and thrift store on our website. We have volunteer opportunities in every part of our organization.

During my lifetime, I…. have a travel bucket-list that I hope I can accomplish. I also am excited to see how we will continue to dismantle the effects of oppression, violence, and abuse on a social and systemic level.

An area where Doylestown could grow is... in diversity. Sometimes Doylestown feels content to stay in its own isolated little bubble, but I would like to see it embracing social relevance, inclusivity, and being willing to evolve.

More economically accessible housing and opportunities can also increase socio-economic diversity.

One of the things I love about Doylestown is... I always thought I was a city girl, but I can definitely admit that Doylestown has made me a ‘townie.’ I love all the cultural and community offerings. I love the natural beauty and outdoor spaces. I love that there are community members who have a passion for progress, flourishing, and activism.

Jasmine Craig

ArtWRKD a Full-Service Art Consortium is Now Open Newtown

What visitors find at the newly opened ArtWRKD is not the typical “artwork”. These pieces come from all over the country and they are full of life. Unique jewelry, leather belts with custom buckles, handbags, paintings, sculptures, animal hide, and little embellished treasures represent local artists as well as those from all over the country.

The owner, Ashara Shapiro, is an incredibly talented, sharp, and witty merchandising aficionado and artist. She cut the ribbon for her Art Consortium in Newtown, on Sept.16.

“There’s something so sacred about artwork, there’s a true piece of each artist within it,” she says. “They give so much to create it.”

This gorgeous space on the second floor at 126 S. State Street features exposed brick walls, coffered ceilings, walnut floors, and art everywhere. It’s a truly special space in the historic Newtown borough. It’s infused with beautiful energy, all stemming from the conscious work created within these four walls.

Shapiro repurposes her art findings to

create something new. She is a long-time resident of Newtown and is now a small business owner. Her commitment to the local community fosters connection through new ideas and events for residents and visitors alike.

Join Shapiro alongside other small businesses in Newtown on October 1st for Market Day, which will feature music, a farmers’ market, and other vendors.

Find ArtWRKD at 126 S. State Road in Newtown (2nd floor above Triple Sun), on IG @art.wrkd, or at https://www.artwrkd.com

The Pro Shop of Newtown Returns

Pro Shop will officially be open in it’s POP UP location at 119 S. State Street in Newtown.

After months of being closed from a fire back in March 2022, Kathleen McCafferty is ready to take her business back. All of everyone’s favorite activewear is ready for shoppers. A piece of Newtown’s heart was missing, but now it has returned!

Owner, Kathleen McCafferty

DO

Newtown Spotlight with Danielle: Greenstraw Smoothies! Newtown GO • SEE

By Danielle Gannon The Cardinal Contributing Writer

Kelly Anne Troy, mom of 4, wife, and local business owner discusses business and background.

Ten years ago, Troy found herself at a loss while looking for healthy food places. “I had a van full of small children, looking for somewhere to go that wasn’t fast food, and I could not find it anywhere” she recalls.

A certified, holistic health coach, Troy valued mindful food choices. She educated herself on ways to provide healthy meals and snacks for her family on a daily basis. Always interested in the connection between disease and poor diet, she learned from the very best at the Institute for Integrative Nutrition in New York. She took the train up and back every other weekend to become skilled in the science of healthy, organic, nutrition-dense foods.

The idea for opening a small smoothie shop sprung in Spring of 2012. Troy consciously tried new recipes at home. She mixed different combinations of greens and fruits to create smoothies and tested them out on her four kids. By winter of 2012 she located a space and by February of 2013, Greenstraw Smoothies was born.

The store will celebrate ten years in business in Feb. 2023. The team has come a long way and developed quite a report in the Newtown community. “Our children were toddlers when we opened and now 3 out of 4 of them work here,” Troy says.

“We source ingredients for Greenstraw the same way we shop for our children, with health as the first priority.”

People come to the shop daily to take shots of wheatgrass, boost immunity, and get some delicious nutrients. Greenstraw offers a variety of different smoothies and bowls. Kelly makes homemade granola, protein balls, and soups from scratch. There are also quick takeaways, like healthy protein bars, snack bags, and fresh pressed juices.

“I love the customers, they are really appreciative of us being here and that we

offer organic ingredients,” Troy says.

Her two daughters have been inspired by Kelly’s health journey and follow a vegan diet. This fact prompted Troy to start creating more options for vegan lunch and snacks. “Sometimes you want a more savory option, and we are in the works of creating that,” she says. Stay on the lookout for new offerings at Greenstraw. Think sandwiches, salads, grab and go.

Visit this family owned and operated business @ 243 N. Sycamore Street Newtown (across from Green Parrot) and visit on IG @gogreenstraw

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.

Saturday, October 1

Market Day

Newtown Historic Association

10:00am – 4:00pm

Half-moon Inn (Court Inn), 105 Court St Save the date! It is our proud tradition to feature high-quality crafters, artisans & fine artists; colonial-era demonstrations, reenactments & activities; farm stands; entertainment for all ages; and food from local restaurants.

https://www.newtownhistoric.org

Sunday, October 23

Suspiro Flamenco Presents: Nuances of the Soul Suspiro Flamenco is back again by popular demand with an amazing show at the Bucks County Community College Zlock Performing Arts Center on Sunday, October 23 at 3:00 pm. Tickets and more info at https://suspiroflamenco.com

There will be light refreshments and cash bar.

Saturday, October 29

Trick Or Treat For Grown-Ups

At Crossing Vineyards & Winery

Join us at 3:00pm for a spook-tacular afternoon, featuring some “scary” wine and sweets pairings, like Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, M&Ms and candy corn.

Want to come in costume? Go for it!

Cost: $35 per person.

See website for details and reservations: www.crossingvineyards.com.

tasty tweets

2022 Cocktails at the Castle

Beer. Barbeque. Bands.

Great Barn Brewery Serves Beer From Farm to Glass with a Side of Live Music

By Natalya Bucuy The Cardinal Contributing Writer

Passion. Imagination. Growth.

Those are the key ingredients to running a business. Maryana and Steve Furguson, owners of Great Barn Brewery, know this well. Staying true to these values, this fall they announce a brand new menu concept at Great Barn Taphouse in Warringtonbarbecue.

“As our business grows, I see opportunities,” Maryana says. “When you’re a businessperson, you can’t stop. You constantly are looking for new ways to improve.”

Building a menu from the ground up is super exciting. The kitchen is a playground for me.”

With a brand new smoker as a centerpiece in the Taphouse’s kitchen, menu items such as St. Luis ribs and pulled pork are sure to make an impact, Papa Duck says. Another soon-to-be favorite is hush puppies, in which he takes special pride.

“The food doesn’t have to be complicated to be good,” Furlano says.

The Mercer Museum’s annual fall fundraiser Cocktails at the Castle returns to Doylestown on Saturday, October 15, 2022, from 6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m., for a night of culinary delights and tasty cocktails, all in support of the Mercer Museum’s education programs, exhibitions, and community initiatives.

Guests will enjoy an unforgettable evening on the grounds of the Mercer Museum with delicious specialties from Bucks County culinary purveyors, along with craft cocktail creations and exceptional entertainment.

The evening begins with a “Pine Street Stroll” cocktail hour, where guests can enjoy an elaborate selection of appetizers from Jeffrey A. Miller Catering and the distinct musical sounds of Birdhouse Center, featuring Bronwyn Bird and Justin Nawn on guitar and nyckelharpa, a traditional Swedish instrument.

Cellars, Sweet Victory Gluten & Dairy Free Treats, and Wycombe Valley Vineyards – with more to come!

Guests will enjoy sampling a curated list of craft cocktails and non-alcoholic beverages throughout the evening. The Mercer Museum’s volunteer event committee is excited bring the annual Cocktails at the Castle tradition to the Doylestown Cultural District.

Attendees will dance the night away with musical acts that set the festive mood including Philadelphia-based party band Where’s Pete to keep the party hopping until the last note is played.

In addition to the event, an important fundraising component of Cocktails at the Castle is the online silent auction featuring one-of-a-kind experiences and unique packages, all to benefit the Bucks County Historical Society.

This year’s selection of unique auction experiences and deluxe offerings includes something for everyone: A one-week vacation on Vieques Island in Puerto Rico, a romantic getaway at the Joseph Ambler Inn, a private behind-the-scenes tour of the Mercer Museum’s collections, buzzworthy spirit gift baskets, artwork, family outings, local dining and shopping adventures, and so much more.

Bidders do not need to purchase tickets or attend the event and all can bid on auction items virtually. The silent auction will close at 9:30 p.m. on Saturday, October 15, 2022. All auction items will be available for pick up at the Mercer Museum.

The couple opened the Taphouse in April of 2021 as an expansion of their growing brewery business. The goals of the new 8,000 sq. ft. location at the Shops at Valley Square included a full restaurant and a sound stage. The combination created a venue for patrons not only to indulge in local brews and food, but to hear live music from area’s artists of various genres.

Bucks County’s only farm-to-glass microbrewery, Great Barn has been a prominent player within the beer scene since 2017. In addition to the Taphouse in Warrington, Great Barn Taproom in New Hope has been another local favorite.

After cocktail hour, local restaurant and catering partners will serve their specialties to the attendees. This year’s partners include Bluestem Botanicals, Chambers 19 Bistro & Bar, Cross Culture Restaurant, Doylestown Café & Catering, Empanada Mama, Genevieve’s Kitchen, Le Macaron French Pastries, Lubertos, McCoole’s, Nothing Bundt Cakes – Warrington, Pennsylvania Soup & Seafood House, Pierre’s Chocolates, Plumsteadville Inn, Simply Fresh by McCaffrey’s, Stone & Key

Tickets to Cocktails at the Castle are $200 for General Admission and $175 for Bucks County Historical Society Members. All tickets selections from the event’s culinary partners, craft cocktails and non-alcoholic mocktails, and musical entertainment.

The event is rain or shine. Tickets are limited, non-refundable, and nontransferable.

For event and auction information and to purchase tickets, visit mercermuseum. org/cocktails.

From larger rock bands, to open-mike and karaoke nights, and local student groups such as the School of Rock - the Great Barn Taphouse has been hosting multiple events every week since the opening day. The plan ahead includes further expansion of the music line-up. The intention is to create a one-stop destination for food, beer, and entertainment.

“We became heavily present in the local music scene,” Maryana says. “We’ve heard people say that the place has Nashville vibes. And when one thinks ‘Nashville,’ barbeque definitely comes to mind.”

Enter the new chef - Chris Furlano, a.k.a. “Papa Duck,” as his staff calls him. Furlano brings 38 years of experience in the restaurant business. His previous ventures included the Duck Deli in New Britain, modeled after his family’s business in Duck, North Carolina.

“The idea is to change the concept completely,” he says of the changes in the Great Barn kitchen. “People already come here for the entertainment and the beer. The new concept will bring people specifically for the food. The food transition will be a home run.”

Furlano believes that the most important thing about running a successful restaurant is finding people who are really passionate about food.

“Without passion food is lifeless,” he says. “I’m a very passionate and creative person.

Great Barn Brewery’s sustainable practices  help keep its carbon footprint low and result in some delicious and unique creations. The Furgusons grow their own barley on their land in Kintnersville, a former goat farm built in 1976. The grain is malted locally at the Double Eagle Malt location just 25 miles away in Huntingdon Valley. Most of the spent grain goes to feed local farm animals, while some gets composted and returned back to the fields. Great Barn’s water source is a private spring-fed well located on the property, far away from industrial pollution. The old goat barn houses the brewhouse, which runs entirely on clean wind powered energy.

With the help of two experienced brewers, James McGowem and Lauren Franklin, Great Barn Brewery produces beer for every taste. Its selections include a variety of seasonal and core series brews, small batch specialty ales, and year-round small batch beers. The brewery offers canned take out options at its Taphouse and Taproom locations as well as online ordering and pick up at the farm. Unexpected bonus - Maryana, a talented graphic artist and painter, designs and creates all can art. If that’s not true labor of love, what is?

“I’m excited for this new beginning and what it will bring,” Maryana says. “Beer. Barbeque. Bands. Life is good.”

For hours, menu, and schedule of musical events visit, www.greatbarnbrewery.com

Photography by Kevin Crawford Imagery LLC

Photography by Kevin Crawford Imagery LLC

tasty tweets Evolution Candy: A One-Stop Shop for Candy, Props, and Nostalgia This Halloween

T aking a trip down memory lane to childhood Halloween nights can bring back such nostalgia. That fantasy of turning into your favorite character, that bit of freedom with friends, or maybe it’s just the extra sugar your parents allowed you to consume? Whatever that spark of joy was for you, as adults, we aim to create these same long-lasting memories for the special kids in our lives.

Whether it’s something extra for those special trick-or-treaters or the desire to

be the coolest house on the block on Halloween night, Evolution Candy has it covered.

The store’s floor-to-ceiling stocked shelves have everyone’s favorite candies. Crybabies, Razzles, and Fun Dip are just a few of the nostalgic candy options found at this quaint, old-school candy shop. It also offers other favorites such as custom goodie bags, Halloween- themed gift baskets, and even the big candy bars (in case you want to be that house).

For friends and family, a gift card from Evolution Candy is always a good option - let them make a memorable trip and pick out their own favorites. Lastminute props, candy sticks, and wax lips are always a hit. Whatever the Halloween plans are, Evolution Candy is an excellent stop on the memory lane for the special people in your life.

5Fall Wines Under $30

By Charlotte Alsaadi Special to The Cardinal

I grew up in Northern Vermont where entering the cooler months meant seeing the mountains burn bright with hues of orange and gold. It meant the wood stove would start crackling, and hot soup would simmer in the kitchen. Bringing out my sweaters and wool socks still gives me a wistful comfort that reminds me why I love this palpable turn of seasons. The nights get colder, and the flavors of wine get deeper. They become more pensive, more earnest, reflecting the essence of autumn.

Here are some of my favorite slow sippers for a slower season. Cheers!

1. Forge Cellars Dry Riesling Classique 2019 - $18.99

Riesling is appropriate any time of year, but a brisk one is wonderful in the fall to accompany a hearty dish such as pork schnitzel. The acidity cuts through the richness of the food, bringing a sensation of balance. Forge is a winery in the Finger Lakes region of New York. Started by a French winemaker, it has earned itself quite a following.

2. Thistle & Weed Duwweltjie Chenin Blanc 2019 - $19.99

The name of this white wine is pronounced “Devil-key,” and is a reference to the Devil’s Thorn weed that grows in the Paarl region of South Africa. Not only is it one of the most beautiful labels you’ll find on the shelf, but the wine bursts with peach and citrus aromatics. Truly delicious.

3. Boschkloof Syrah 2017 - $24.99

Boschkloof is considered one of the “First Growth” wineries of South Africa (translation: this is a world class producer). This organically grown Syrah from Stellenbosch is peppery and deep, but not heavy. If you’re wary of South African reds, don’t be. Not all are created equal.

4. Hermann J. Wiemer Cabernet Franc - $26.99

Wiemer is without a doubt one of the best wine producers in the Finger Lakes. The hospitality at Wiemer is topnotch, and the wines simply delight. This

Cabernet Franc has dark berry flavors, with a wonderful herbal quality and flowy tannins.

5. Château Laribotte Sauternes 2018$21.99 (half bottle)

Sauternes is a dessert wine from just outside of Bordeaux, France. It is made with grapes that have been desiccated by Botrytis cinerea, a fungus that grows under humid conditions. Don’t be alarmed; the result is a deeply concentrated flavor profile. Think honey, chamomile, ginger, and orange. Pair it with blue cheese, or –if you really want to emulate the French – fois gras.

Charlotte Alsaadi is a Bucks County resident who holds a master’s degree in Wine and Vineyard Sciences from the University of Bordeaux in France. She works in wine marketing at Vine Street Imports and hosts private wine classes at Buckingham Valley Vineyards. You can find her on Instagram @ charlottealsaadi or at commonroadwine.com.

“I was introduced to Pine2Pink back in 2020, when I was diagnosed with breast cancer. My son’s school asked to do a walk in my honor, so I researched local charities – and found that Pine2Pink was ideal. I’ve since seen firsthand how Pine2Pink has impacted people’s lives. Its mission is to bring the community together to support local breast cancer patients and their families.”

- Stacie Crane, Local Breast Cancer Survivor

“Pine2Pink is one true communitybased charity that makes everybody come together as one. I’m very proud to be a partner of this organization”

- Timothy Wylie, Owner of Nat’s Pizza

“In addition to helping the cancer patients in our local community, one of the things I love most about Pine2Pink is the way it also helps support local business owners through “Eat, Drink & Buy Pink” partnerships as well as the scavenger

hunt. Through these partnerships, the community is encouraged to visit these businesses that they may not have otherwise known about and may lead to a reoccurring client or customer.”

– Brittany Brown of @brittaroundtown

“It has been an amazing journey to connect with Pine2Pink and support such a great local-for-locals organization.

I have learned much from Keith…how we can come together in community in ways that we normally might not, creating a platform that supports from the heart….giving to give for others you may never see or meet, yet being able to make a huge difference in their lives. Pine2Pink has shown me how to create a new world based on diving deep inside and giving without boundaries…a world that I know I want to continue to inhabit with heart.”

- Shari Simon, Owner of Sun Dog Yoga Studio

Co-owner James Lamb getting into the halloween spirit with Jennifer Eckfield AKA Micheal Myers

tasty tweets

What’s New In Town: La Frida’s

By Jules from @FortheLoveofDoylestown The Cardinal Contributing Writer

Enoelio Ambrocio arrived in Norristown in 2003. He left his home in Southern Mexico because he had no other choice - there was no opportunity or money in the small village. Upon arriving in Pennsylvania, he worked for Lee’s Hoagie House in Blue Bell for 13 years. There, he learned as much as he could about the restaurant industry. Later, he got a job at California Kitchen in Doylestown, which is now the location of Enoelio’s very own restaurant - Las Frida’s Mexican Kitchen.

Ambrocio chose Doylestown as the location for the business he runs with two partners due the neighborly nature of his customers. “People are very, very friendly here,” he says. “I feel welcome. I always wanted a restaurant and this feels like a dream. It’s been very busy and I just cannot believe this is happening.”

The charm of the restaurant is casual and authentic. The artwork of Frida Kahlo, a well-known Mexican painter, enhances the orange and yellow walls, adding a cheerful and welcoming feel.

The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. A popular breakfast favorite is the Huevos Divorciados, which includes two sunny-side-up eggs on top of a flat, crispy tortilla, spread with beans and cheese and topped with ranchero and green sauce. Cilantro, lime, sour cream, and avocado accompany this hearty breakfast. Other customer favorites include tacos, burritos, and burrito bowls. I ordered the Chile Relleno - a traditional Mexican stuffed-pepper dish - twice now, and I am happy to report that it is delightfully fresh and perfectly spiced.

Then, there is Mexican coffee. I overheard other customers complimenting it and I asked for a cup. I loved it. It was strong, dark, and smooth with hints of cinnamon. I will definitely be returning just for the coffee alone.

In addition to dining in, and delivery options set to start soon, Las Frida’s offers off-site catering. For $16 a person, the restaurant’s team will set up a delicious on-location taco bar. Long-term goals include the acquisition of a liquor license.

Ambrocio is living out his dream. He beams with gratitude and humble pride. He still resides in Norristown with his wife and four children.

The Doylestown location of Las Frida’s Mexican Kitchen marks the third location of the brand, with other locations in Maple Glen and Lansdale. The fourth location in Norristown will be opening within a month.

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.

Ground Cherries: Little Bursts of Nature

By Nicolas and Stephen Servis The Cardinal Contributing Writers

The award for the most precious little bursts of nature, in my opinion, must go to the ground cherry. Not only does it grow in its own protective husk, but it packs a punch of flavor that my brother and I can only describe as “Nature’s Pina Colada.”

Whenever we see a quart of these golden little bursts of sunshine at the local farmers markets, we make sure to grab a couple.

The ground cherry, also known as the Cape gooseberry or the golden berry for its bright color, originated in Brazil. In the 17th century it was primarily used in South Africa near the Cape of Good Hope, hence the ‘Cape’ gooseberry.

Although this little beauty has been consumed since the 17th century, in the States we didn’t consume nature’s pina colada until the mid-20th century. The plant is relatively easy to grow.

It produces easily in a pot and requires

moderate shade and water. Be careful not to overwater, as it can lead to fungus and rot in the stem and roots. If the golden berry didn’t already pique your interest, here is another interesting fact. The fruit falls off the stem when it’s ripe, leaving the ability to scoop it off the ground without ever having to guess its ripeness.

Due to the content of phytochemicals, carotenoids, and withanolides, the ground cherry is intensely packed with antioxidant properties. Carotenoids are helpful in protection against illnesses. including heart disease. They also enhance the immune system. Other benefits include promoting eye, skin, and bone health. Withanolides carry anti-microbial, anti-tumor, antiinflammatory, and immunomodulatory agents. To put it simply, golden berries should be included in everyone’s diet.

When it comes to the ground cherries cooking properties, Servis Events has utilized them in a number of ways. We have displayed them on the table as a palate

cleanser in between courses, incorporated them into a mustard, and added them to our favorite salads.

Ground Cherry and Fig salad is a great addition to an October menu. Toss halved figs, ground cherries, sliced cucumber, and red onion with extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, parsley, mint, pomegranate seeds, and salt and pepper. Let all of the flavors get to know each other in the fridge for a half hour and then indulge with your friends and family.

Ground cherry mustard adds another great use of the fruit. Take 15 husked, washed, and halved ground cherries, three tablespoons of whole grain mustard, and 1 cup of white wine. Place all of these ingredients into a sauce pot and turn on to medium heat. Let the cherries boil in the white wine until they are tender and the wine has reduced by about two-thirds. While still hot, transfer the ground cherry mixture into a blender or food processor and blend until the mix is smooth. Once finished, place in a container and cool in the fridge overnight. Place in a squeeze bottle or a mason jar and put it on your favorite hotdogs or pork belly; replace it for dijon mustard in any of your favorite vinaigrettes.

Next time you are in the store or farmers market, look for these small golden marbles screaming to be eaten and give them a listen. They’re truly scrumptious.

Harper & Penny’s

By Jules from @FortheLoveofDoylestown The Cardinal Contributing Writer

Nothing about the menu of Harper & Penny’s is basic, which is an intentional feature.

The restaurant, formerly Andre’s, opened its doors June of 2021. Co-owners Chef Jamal Harper and Lyndsay Williams offer the type of menu you don’t see anywhere else in town. Located in the Doylestown Marketplace at 22 South Main Street, the eatery is warm, cozy, and includes a beautiful bar.

Chef Harper likes the food options to be fresh, new, and fearless. Popular menu items include the incredibly delicious wings, freshly made hummus, and the charcuterie boards. Harper makes the house Caesar salad with half a head of lightly grilled lettuce and tops it with blood orange olive oil from Olive Oil Etcetera, located next door. And, of course, the freshly made from scratch burgers are an all-time favorite.

The fresh herbs and vegetables the chef uses in all his creations come from general manager, bartender, and expert gardener, John Kelly. Both Harper and Williams rave about him in his role at the restaurant. “He really keeps us organized,” Williams says.

Harper & Penny’s is all about keeping it local. The wine served in the restaurant is from Wycombe Vineyards and all of the liquor is from Pennsylvania. The wall decor features local artists Michael Lever and David Ohlerking. It is very important for the restaurant to include the community as much as possible, Harper says.

Harper’s own kitchen experience includes his work at a variety of local eateries. He has worked at Jules Pizza, Pennsylvania Soup and Seafood, Penn Tap Room, 86 West, and The Bucks Club. He credits his expertise to extensive experience, reading, researching, and trying new things.

This year, the restaurant is planning to introduce a new menu and expand its services. In line with Harper’s vision, the menu will feature upscale items and will include fusions of southern food and other cultures. “I just don’t want to be like anyone else,” Harper says. “I am not fearful of change and I never want to be boring.”

Short term goals include continuing to cater parties. Customers can rent the downstairs space of next door bar, Hopscotch, to which some refer as The Lion’s Den. Harper also owns his own catering company, Jamal Harper Cooks and Caters. (jamalharpercooks.com)

Long term goals include new locations, a food truck, and possibly packaging their goods for sale in grocery stores and coops. The team plans to slowly grow without overstepping its capabilities. In the year since the opening, staff has been through a lot of learning and growth.

If you’re wondering who Penny is, it is Lyndsay’s alter-ego. She says she has always loved the name and has used it to help her with personal growth, development, and to challenge herself.

I am excited to see what will be on the menu next. For now though, I took home two pounds of coffee dry-rubbed chicken wings for dinner.  And to be honest with you, they were gone rather quickly.

Co-owners Lyndsay Williams and Chef Jamal Harper

Enoelio Ambrocio, owner of La Frida’s Mexican Kitchen

W hat Local Residents Love About Halloween

By Dana Roberts The Cardinal Contributing Writer

Locals in and around Doylestown share their favorite things about Halloween, costume plans, favorites from years past, and what they’re looking forward to on Monday, October 31st!

KENNEDY, (age 5)

What they’ll dress up as this year:

Sophie: “Honestly, I don’t know.”

Noa: The Karate Kid.

Matt: A zombie butcher.

Aly: “A Dia de los Muertos figurine… again. I bought the tights a few years ago and I’m not turning back.”

Their favorite costumes from the past:

Sophie: “We made a homemade unicorn that I liked. That was the first time I used a hot glue gun!”

Noa: “Olaf. I was a baby, and I was cute.”

What the decorating theme is this year: “You’ll have to wait and see. We never reveal until the decorating is over (typically by the second weekend in October.)”

Any snafus that have happened when they’ve done the decorating: “The only snafu so far was when my son Matt climbed the big pine tree to attach a line so the skeletons could “fly” with their umbrellashe was covered in sap.”

Favorite Halloween candy: Matt - candy corn, Cam - Skittles, Max - Starburst, David and Allison – Reese’s PB cups.

Favorite costumes from the past: “The first year we had a party our family dressed as the Addams family—hands down our favorite. My youngest was Cousin It, and I made his costume - lots of wigs.”

done for years is to project jack-o-lantern faces singing Halloween songs onto pumpkins. It makes everyone smile, and has gotten the occasional breakout dance or sing-along started!”

Reason she loves Halloween: “Because my family loves Halloween and we have so many great traditions and memories around it. I have fond memories of my grandmother stopping at each grandkid’s house in costume every Halloween. My parents used to host Halloween parties at their house. We would have a fog-filled cemetery, a cauldron filled with hot apple cider, and scary movies playing on the side of the house. We decorated the entire house with elaborate spooky themes with my Mom. And months beforehand, we made 10 foot creatures with my Dad. We took wagon rides through the woods behind my parents’ house and costumed friends and neighbors had a great time together, being just a little bit scared. I love passing along all our Halloween traditions to my son. He even helped build the latest generation of 10-foot pumpkin-head creatures and floating phantoms the last two years.”

Favorite Halloween movie: “I love the scary movies that rely on suspense and tension. So, I’d have to go with the original Halloween from 1978 and the re-vamped Halloween from 2018. But with my son, Nightmare Before Christmas is a favorite.

When two holidays collide: Kennedy’s birthday falls on Halloween.

Her favorite Halloween candy: Pink and purple Pop Rocks.

How long she thinks she’ll trick-or-treat for this year: “Probably 20 hours.”

What she’s looking forward to about Halloween at school: All the decorations in the classroom.

Halloween costume plan: A big purple monster.

What she dressed up as last year: Wonder Woman.

Favorite Halloween movie: Mickey’s Tale of Two Witches.

Who sneaks more of her Halloween candy, Mom or Dad? Both take the same amount.

What she likes and doesn’t like about having a birthday on Halloween: She likes it all because it’s her birthday! But mostly, trick-or-treating.

CONOR (age 36)

Matt: Waldo from the Where’s Waldo books.

Aly: “I was really proud of that unicorn costume.”

How long their family lasts trick-ortreating: 9pm or so. That’s high time for candy sorting.

Their favorite Halloween candy:

Sophie: Skittles, Milky Ways, Twix.

Noa: Twix, Kit Kats, Skittles.

Matt: Butterfingers.

Aly: Reese’s Cups.

Who is most likely to sneak into the candy?

Sophie: “Noa.”

Noa: “Dad?”

Matt: “Definitely Aly.”

Aly: “Guilty.”

Favorite Halloween movie:

Sophie: Hotel Transylvania

Noa: “I was thinking of that!”

Matt and Aly: Rocky Horror Picture Show

How many trick-or-treaters they get each year on Court Street, and how much they typically have to spend on candy: “Pre covid 300+, the last couple of years about 200+, Money spent - priceless :). When Covid came we came up with an idea of making a candy chute to send the candy right into the trick-or- treaters’ bags. It has worked so great, we will keep it.”

Favorite thing about Halloween night: “We love the excitement in the air on Halloween; it really is the most magical night of the year. We love to see all the kids, young and old, coming out to get candy and have some fun. I just love the T-Rex costumes. They are the best.”

Who likes to eat the leftover candy? Everyone!

JENNA, (age 38)

Best part of Halloween with her son: “Everything! He’s just as into Halloween as I am. I love being able to continue all the special traditions that my parents started when I was a kid. And I love all the new traditions we’re creating together. I have some special surprises planned for him throughout the month!

How long she expects to last trick or treating this year: “I’m guessing about two hours will be our limit this year. But I’m ready for anything.”

MIKE (age 36)

Favorite Halloween movie: The Strangers.

Mischief Night antics from the past? “Toilet papering and silly stringing my own house with my neighbor because we were too young to go out for Mischief Night. Then, cleaning the next day. ”

Favorite Halloween candy: Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups.

Most memorable Halloween costume from his childhood: Ninja Turtles.

Prize-winning Halloween costume as an adult: Blowfish

How many trick-or-treaters do you get? “Zero. I live in an apartment and the kids don’t come by.”

Best part about Halloween: Halloween parties hosted by close friends.

Why their family loves Halloween: Allison: “I’ve always loved Halloween, ever since I was a little girl. My mother always decorated, and we had neighborhood parties, so as an adult I adopted some of the same traditions myself. I love to decorate the house and have parties, and we especially love to decorate outside as we have a lot of trick-or-treaters.”

How long they’ve been decorating their side yard with different schemes: “David and I have been doing our skeleton decorations on the side yard since our first Halloween in the borough in 2016.”

The first decorating scheme they had was: “The first year we had three skeletons climbing up the side of the house that looked like they were trying to break into the house.”

How they come up with the ideas for their decorations: “It started out as a family collaboration, but since our two oldest are out of the house and one is away at college this year, it mostly falls on David and me with the decorating ideas.”

Favorite costume in the past: “My mom made all our costumes growing up and they were always creative. I think my favorite may have been when she dressed me up as a dancing flower as in the Rock ‘N Flowers toys from the 90s.”

What she’s dressing up as this year: “TBD. I have a three-and-a-half-year-old son, so my costume will be on theme with whatever he wants to be. Last year, he was Buzz Lightyear and I dressed up as Jessie from Toy Story. Anyone who’s ever spent time with a toddler knows it will probably be a game time decision, so I’ll likely have a few options ready!”

Favorite Halloween candy: 100 Grand

Where she likes to go trick-or-treating: “I love being able to trick or treat with my son around where I grew up. He’s forming great bonds with the neighbors that watched me grow up. It is really special to have such a strong community of neighbors that are like family to us!”

If she had to do a “trick” for trick-ortreating, what would it be: “Not so much a trick, but a special effect I love and have

What he’ll dress up as this year: Joseph, from the Bible

Past Halloween costumes include: Pinocchio, Tormund from Game of Thrones, Gritty (Flyers’ mascot), Harry Potter, Sponge Bob, Jim Carrey from Dumb and Dumber, Lumiere from Beauty and the Beast, Big Bird

The costume he has gotten the most comments on in the past: “I think Pinocchio went over really well, but I got a lot of credit for Tormund being the most accurate.”

Favorite couples’ costume from the past: “Sonny and Cher with my wife. Everyone thought she was Ozzy Osbourne.”

A Halloween memory from his childhood: “I was a Greaser with my friend Nathan. Did the old school pillowcase, collect-as-much candy as you can, quintessential Halloween experience.”

Favorite Halloween candy: 100 Grand Halloween pre-having children was a lot different because…”It was fun. Just kidding. Because it wasn’t as special—you get more joy out of watching your kids experience it than you do yourself.”

Best part about trick-or-treating with kids: “Seeing other people’s reactions to your kids’ costumes and how adorable they are.”

What your kids and wife will dress up as this year: Lucy, 2, will be baby Jesus, and Bonnie will be a shepherd. Dana will be the Dalai Lama.

MATT, ALYSON, SOPHIE (age 9) and NOA (age 6)

ALLISON, DAVID, and their kids MATT, CAM, AND MAX

Note: Picture obviously not of Jenna, but one ofthe pumpkin head creatures her family made

health • wellness

WHO IS “HANGRY”?

By Julie Lachman, ND Special to The Cardinal

Maybe you know someone who gets very irritable at times, or becomes cranky. You might be aware of how effectively a simple snack can turn this vicious creature into the person you love. Or, maybe you’re the one who suddenly gets a headache or gets grouchy between meals.

These are the cases of what is called hypoglycemia. When blood sugar is low, it can result in surges of adrenaline, which can cause heart racing and palpitations. Adrenaline then raises cortisol in the body, a stress hormone which, in turn, attempts to raise the blood sugar.

Hypoglycemia is not the result of not eating enough. It usually occurs in response to a recent high blood sugar episode. This may seem counter-intuitive, but blood sugar regulation works like a seesaw - the higher it goes, the lower it falls later. This is why 3pm is a common time to feel tired. Sugary or starchy meals at lunch or consumption of alcohol or a meal high in carbohydrates the day before can contribute to the mood changes.

If you get hangry, think about the last few meals you have eaten. Chances are, they were high not only in added sugars, but also in natural starches, like potatoes, pastas, bananas, breads, etc. You can track your carbohydrates in a fitness app, or with a continuous glucose monitor.

One of the take-home messages is to watch added sugars. Added sugars can be an issue if sugar is listed as one of the first six ingredients of your food. The other important thing is to add fat and fiber to your diet, as they both slow down the absorption of the sugars. They reduce the sugar highs and, therefore, the lows. And be sure to check out Stan’s vitamins and Organnon’s for your favorite blood sugar support supplements.

Julie Lachman is a naturopathic doctor located in Bucks County Pa. She’s committed to getting at the reason for symptoms and helping your body heal itself naturally. Taking an integrated approach to your health, Julie Lachman, ND has worked with patients with conditions ranging from fertility to diabetes. For more information visit her at www.drlachman.com

How Does THAT Make You Feel? Therapy at LifeBack

We all know the image of the old man smoking a pipe as a patient lies on a chaise lounge. The patient frantically purges, “My mom didn’t love me enough, my dad was never home.” The Psychotherapist lets out a plume of smoke and mutters, “How did that make you feel?” This may have been a realistic image in the Freudian era. The modern picture, however, is very different.

Yes, feelings are certainly part of therapy, but that isn’t the whole thing. Therapy entails more than feelings. It is the past, the present, and the future. Therapy involves learning about one’s core belief system, behaviors, and how these things connect.

A THERAPIST’S PERSPECTIVE

Going to therapy doesn’t mean one is crazy, that he or she had a bad childhood, or that something is wrong with the person. If I had a nickel for every time I heard any of these misconceptions, I’d be on my way to retirement. Therapy is a tool, an outlet, and a way to receive support. Therapy can help people see things they wouldn’t otherwise see without the help of an unbiased professional.

Therapy can be filled with learning, growth, joy, happiness, and laughter. I recently received an email from a patient who told me that she “finally practiced mindfulness and said no to an invitation.” She said that it felt really good to be able to do that. At the start of her journey, she struggled intensely with saying “no” to others. She finally learned that her needs are important and saying “no” doesn’t make her a bad or selfish person”. –Melissa Straker LPC, CCS, ACS

Melissa Straker is a licensed professional counselor in NJ & PA. She serves as LifeBack’s Clinical Director supporting a team of 20 therapists across two offices.

THE DOCTOR IS IN “In an era where we struggle with connection to others, therapy can be a great way to strengthen our social and interpersonal skills. Unlike social media, therapy provides a place to explore without fear of judgment or the need for “likes”. Therapy is a safe space to make sense of the world. –Dr. Rebecca Meinke

Dr. Rebecca Meinke is a board-certified Psychiatrist treating children, adolescents, and adults and serves as Medical Director in both LifeBack locations.

A SOLID FOUNDATION

LifeBack rests on a foundation of integrity and commitment. Patients’ wellness is at the forefront of our individualized treatment approach. We focus on solutions that lead to change as we help people achieve their personal goals. Together, we will work to ensure that your time with us is significant and meaningful. LifeBack focuses on maintaining clinical excellence by ensuring that patient care is unique, flexible, and creative. We understand that seeking help can be intimidating. From start to finish, each member of the LifeBack team will treat you with the utmost respect and dignity.

Contact Information

10 South Clinton Street, Suite 100

Doylestown, PA 18901 (267) 935-9925

(609) 482-3702

From left to right - Marcia MacKillop, LCSW; Stephan Brautigam, APN; Greg Smola, LSW; & Dr.Rebecca Meinke, MD & Medical Director

health • wellness

Peace Valley Nature Center

UPCOMING SCHEDULE

MORNING COFFEE IN THE PARK

Saturday, October 1, 10:00am - 11:30am

Enjoy a crisp fall morning overlooking the lake with a warm coffee in hand! We’ll brew the beans, you come ready to learn and sip! We’ll be offering tips and tricks on how to enjoy coffee responsibly, from choosing beans to managing waste, there are so many ways we can reduce the ecological impact of our morning routine.

NATURALIST FORAY

Join one of our Naturalists for a themed hike on the Nature Center Trails.

Registration required.

Sunday, October 2, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Theme: Secrets of Seeds

Sunday, October 9, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Theme: Autumn Observations Sunday, October 23, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Theme: Fascinating Skeletons

SPIDER’S TEA PARTY

Saturday, October 8, 2:00pm - 3:30pm

Bring along your favorite stuffed pal & join us on this whimsical day! We will listen to some fantastical tales read by Mrs. Spider, and enjoy a tea party in the forest. Registration required. MembersFree • Non-members - $5.00

LOLLY HOPWOOD CONCERT

Saturday, October 15, 1:00pm - 2:30pm

Don’t miss this visit from special guest Lolly Hopwood! This is a nature-themed kids concert overlooking the lake. Bring your own chairs / blankets to sit on.

No registration required. Admission is free.

WOODLAND PUMPKIN HUNT

Sunday, October 16, 1:30pm - 3:00pm

Registration required, fee: $5 per participant (members); $10 per participant (non-members). No charge for

attending adult. Take a magical journey in the woods though the eyes of Mousekin as he and the forest around him prepare for the coming winter. We’ll search for food and watch for predators, then find our own “golden house” to decorate and take home. For ages 3 – 8 with an adult.

FALCON EXPERIENCE WITH MASTER OF THE SKIES

Saturday, October 22, 2:00pm - 3:00pm This falconry class will teach you the basics of raptors behavior and husbandry and will explain the need for their protection and conservation. You will get the chance to hold the birds on your falconry gauntlet and you will experience the unique thrill of having them fly freely from your glove and back to you. A very memorable experience for all people from all walks of life.

CANOE BUILDING DEMONSTRATION

Sunday, October 23, 1:00pm - 2:00pm

Join author and primitive living expert Robin Moore as he guides you through the process of building an Ojibway canoe using traditional methods. He learned this ancient craft from a master canoe builder in the Canadian bush and will share his knowledge and adventure stories. This program is for adults. Registration is required, $10 per attendee.

170 North Chapman Road, Doylestown • 215-348-6270 www. peacevalleynaturecenter.org

KINDNESS KORNER

By Dana Roberts The Cardinal Contributing Writer

I

n Kindness Korner we want to hear about random acts of kindness you’ve experienced recently. This can be acts from a stranger, a business owner or employee, a teacher, a child . . . anyone. Send your story to jess@ doylestowncardinal.com. Please include a picture of the kind person if possible (with their permission).

after the birth of one of her children, when someone brought her an elaborate  meal. Petrun believes that kindness can inspire people to feel differently and to pay it forward. She has seen the faces of strangers light up with gratitude at the smallest acts of kindness, such as paying for someone’s order at a bagel shop or paying a compliment to a passerby.

Joanne

Petrun and Edie Weinstein truly embody that statement. The two women partnered to create Bucks County Kind, an organization that focuses on spreading kindness throughout the community.

Petrun, a clinical supply program manager and a mother of three from Buckingham, experienced the power of kindness

Weinstein, of Dublin, collaborated with Petrun to create Bucks County Kind earlier this year. For her, a memorable act of kindness occurred when a friend dropped off a 20-pack of toilet paper during the height of the pandemic. She’d never owned that much toilet paper at once, but appreciated the gesture.

Together, Petrun and Weinstein started a Facebook group to spread the message of kindness. A local graphic designer made cards for the organization to hand out and leave at various businesses.

The goal of Bucks County Kind, as well as the cards that are its signature, is multifold: to encourage members of the community to join the Facebook group, to post to the page any acts of kindness witnessed, to encourage a receiver of a card to perform a random act of kindness, and to share locations to see where the cards and their resulting kindnesses have spread.

Weinstein, a grandmother of two and a full-time psychotherapist by trade, finds joy and fulfillment from the movement Bucks County Kind is creating. Prior to the pandemic, she was involved in a free hug project. She finds Bucks County Kind’s method to be even more successful.

events calendar

COUNTY THEATRE

WWW.COUNTYTHEATRE.ORG

October 6 – 7:00pm

The Birds

October 12 – 7:00pm

Purple Noon

October 13 – 7:00pm

Rebel Without a Cause

Member Appreciation Night

October 19 – 7:00pm

Lost Highway – New Restoration

October 20 – 7:00pm

Labyrinth Outdoor Screening at the Mercer

October 21 – 9:45pm

The Craft

October 26 – 7:00pm

Little Shop of Horrors

October 27 – 7:00pm

The Thing

October 31 – 7:30pm

Carrie

ONGOING

SEPTEMBER 5 – OCTOBER 31

Scarecrows in the Village Peddlers Village

An autumn tradition continues starting September 5! For eight fun-filled weeks, one hundred scarecrows line the brick pathways of our autumn-tinted Village. Some are inspired by famous characters, some are humorous, some are scary – but all of them are carefully handmade by Philly-area residents and organizations. The display is free and on view every day through October 31. Village visitors are invited to vote on their favorite scarecrows during the display. Voting continues through October 10, and the scarecrows will be on view through October 31. The creators of the winning scarecrows receive prizes.

https://peddlersvillage.com/festivals

OCTOBER 7, 19, 21, 28: 6:15pm – 9:30pm

OCTOBER 8: 3:45pm – 7:00pm

OCTOBER 22: 2:45pm – 6:00pm

OCTOBER 29: 12:45pm – 4:00pm

OCTOBER 29: 10:45am – 2:00pm

PICK YOUR PROJECT WORKSHOP

Board and Brush

Looking for a fun way to connect with friends or family?

Join our most popular DIY workshop and create your own unique wood sign! Select a wood project from our gallery. 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 and wood stain colors in the workshop. Pre-registration is required. We look forward to seeing you soon!

https://boardandbrush.com/doylestown

“Nobody says no to the cards. Plus, the cards help promote local businesses,” she says. The women have handed out about 5,000 cards now, and their Facebook group hit over 1,000 members on August 15th. The 6ABC Action News featured the organization as part of its Be Kind series.

For those looking for a way to share small kindnesses, Petrun and Weinstein have some ideas. Keep it simple - say hello or thank you, smile at someone, talk to a cashier at the checkout line, give a compliment to a passerby, put coins in a meter that’s about to run out, double a recipe and give half to a friend or tired parent. Both women emphasize that kindnesses don’t have to be big to make a difference.

To get on board with the movement, join the Facebook group by searching “Bucks County Kind.” To get cards to share with others, visit local businesses or request some from the group. In the meantime, be kind, for, as they say, everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about.

compiled by Lily Appleby special thanks to BrittAroundTown.com

SATURDAYS, 10:00am – 1:00pm

COFFEE AND CRAFTING

Union Street Studio

A place where people can gather outside of the home to enjoy company, drink coffee, listen to music in a relaxed atmosphere, and create! Mimosa’s anyone??? BYO food and drinks permitted.

Registration required in advance. $20-$40/person depending on the project. https://www.ussdtown.com

SATURDAY • OCTOBER 1

THE CRAFTERY MARKET

Mercer Museum 11:00am – 4:00pm

This modern and unique market on the green outside of the Mercer Museum features over 50 vendors, including carefully-curated artisan, handmade items, antique & vintage finds, original art and more! Enjoy food and live music while you shop. https://www.mercermuseum.org/events

WEDNESDAY • OCTOBER 5

RITA CAMERON // THE HOUSE PARTY

Doylestown Bookshop 6:00pm

Join us in welcoming author Rita Cameron as she discusses The House Party, perfect for fans of Little Fires Everywhere and Ask Again, Yes. Rita Cameron received her BA from Columbia University and JD from the University of Pennsylvania. She lives in San Jose, California, with her husband and two children. She is the author of Ophelia’s Muse. Discussing: The House Party, by Rita Cameron. https://www.doylestownbookshop.com/event

THURSDAY • OCTOBER 6

ANDROID’S DREAM SCI-FI BOOK CLUB

Doylestown Bookshop 6:30pm

Join us for a discussion of all things sci-fi, fantasy, and horror at the Android’s Dream Book Club. This book club meets on the first Thursday of every month at Doylestown Bookshop, and is free to join with no registration necessary. Hope to see you there. Discussing: The Children of Hurin by Christopher Tolkien, J.R.R. Tolkien. https://www.doylestownbookshop.com/event

SATURDAY • OCTOBER 8

FIRE PREVENTION OPEN HOUSE

Doylestown Fire Station-19, 68 Shewell Avenue, Doylestown 5pm-8pm

Come join for an open house at the Doylestown Borough Fire Station! There will be displays of fire trucks, an ambulance, police car, and numerous displays inside the firehouse! Please stop by to visit!

TUESDAY • OCTOBER 11

PHILOSOPHY BOOK CLUB

Lahaska Bookshop

Meets on the 2nd Tuesday of the month. Contact: CentralBucksPhilosphers@gmail.com https://www.doylestownbookshop.com/event

WEDNESDAY • OCTOBER 12

FIVE SECRETS TO LOWERING YOUR BLOOD SUGAR NATURALLY Lunch provided. Seats are limited. RSVP required. 1432 Easton Rd, Warrington. Call Lachman and Associates at (267) 4060782.

THURSDAY • OCTOBER 13

WOMEN’S BUSINESS BOOK CLUB

Doylestown Bookshop 6:00pm

Join us for a book discussion group for women in business. Each meeting will focus on a business book and will include a guest facilitator for each session, based on the book. Guest facilitators will include businesswomen from the Doylestown and Bucks County communities. Discussing: ‘A Well-behaved Woman: A Novel of the Vanderbilts’ by Therese Anne Fowler. https://www.doylestownbookshop.com/event

FRIDAY • OCTOBER 14

GIRLS EMPOWERED MIDDLE SCHOOL BOOK CLUB

Doylestown Bookshop 4:00pm – 6:00pm

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: Goodbye Stranger by Rebecca Stead. https://www.doylestownbookshop.com/event

SATURDAY • OCTOBER 15

COCKTAILS AT THE CASTLE

Mercer Museum 6:00pm – 10:00pm

Enjoy an unforgettable evening of culinary delights and tantalizing cocktails at the Mercer Museum’s major annual fundraiser to benefit year-round education, exhibition and community initiatives. Guests enjoy offerings from the area’s restaurants, caterers, and bakeries while imbibing crafted cocktails and dancing the night away. An online silent auction features one-of-a-kind experiences and packages, all to benefit a great cause. https://www. mercermuseum.org

SATURDAY - SUNDAY • OCTOBER 15 – 16

OCTOBER FEAST

Peddlers Village October 15th (11:00am) – 16th (5:00pm)

Join us for OctoberFeast, a weekend featuring food trucks, beer garden, live entertainment, and family activities. Grab your stein and stroll amongst larger-than-life scarecrows every day through October 31, part of our 43rd Annual Scarecrows in the Village! https://peddlersvillage.com/event

SUNDAY • OCTOBER 16

SCARECROW SHUFFLE WITH SCOOGIE

Peddlers Village 9:00am – 11:00pm

Please join Scoogie Events & Peddler’s Village for a very FAMILY FRIENDLY EVENT for adults & children of ALL AGES & ALL ABILITIES as we celebrate the Fall running season with a super festive event jam packed with family fun & activities! We suggest parking at Giggleberry Fair. https://peddlersvillage.com/festivals

WEDNESDAY • OCTOBER 19

FRIGHT NIGHT YA PANEL

Doylestown Bookshop 6:00pm

Join us in welcoming YA authors Amy Christine Parker, Christina Farley, Vivi Barnes, and Diana Rodriguez Wallach as they discuss their current books and everything horror on Wednesday, October 19th at 6:00 PM. This is a perfect event for readers looking for scary fiction and a quick thrill, as well as fans of horror movies like Final Destination and the Fear Street trilogy.

https://www.doylestownbookshop.com/event

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

WEDNESDAY • OCTOBER 19

SPIRITUALITY BOOK CLUB

Doylestown Bookshop 6:30pm

Read and discuss books to expand and nurture your spiritual journey. Open to everybody. Discussing: ‘No Cure For Being Human: (And Other Truths I Need To Hear)’ by Kate Bowler. https://www.doylestownbookshop.com/event

FRIDAY • OCTOBER 21

LISA REGAN // HER FINAL CONFESSION

Doylestown Bookshop 6:00pm

Join us in welcoming bestselling author Lisa Regan as she discusses Her Final Confession, an unputdownable crime thriller perfect for fans of Angela Marsons, Robert Dugoni, and Rachel Caine on Friday, October 21st at 6:00 PM at The Doylestown Bookshop. www.doylestownbookshop.com/event

TUESDAY - SUNDAY • OCTOBER 25 – 30

PUMPKIN CARVING CONTEST

Peddlers Village

Kids of all ages—even those who are only kids at heart—are invited to take part in our new Pumpkin-Carving Contest at Peddler’s Village this October. Take out your carving tools and create your best jack-o’-lantern face to be displayed from October 25 – 30. Prizes will be awarded for best entries. Visit website for more information. https://peddlersvillage.com/festivals

WEDNESDAY • OCTOBER 26

FIVE SECRETS TO LOWERING YOUR BLOOD SUGAR NATURALLY Virtual presentation. Spaces are limited. RSVP required. Call Lachman and Associates at (267) 406-0782.

THURSDAY • OCTOBER 27

COCK ‘N BULL + FREE WILL BEER DINNER

Peddlers Village 5:30pm – 8:00pm

Chefs David Perini and Justin McClain weave local ingredients into culinary magic in our Craft Collection Dining Series. The evening will be casual and social. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., with sit-down dinner starting at 6:00 p.m. Reservations required. Limited seating. Must be 21 years or older. https://peddlersvillage.com/festivals

THURSDAY • OCTOBER 27

NATURE LOVER’S BOOK CLUB

DOYLESTOWN BOOKSHOP 6:00pm

The Bucks County Audubon Society at the Honey Hollow Educational Environmental Center welcomes you to join us at the Doylestown Bookshop for a fun and engaging discussion about all things nature. We will be meeting on the 4th Thursday evening of the month, starting at 6:00 p.m. We welcome your insights and input for future readings. Bring a friend and make a new one and we look forward to seeing you at the next meeting. Discussing: ‘Becoming Wild: How Animal Cultures Raise Families, Beauty, and Achieve Peace’ by Carl Safina. www.doylestownbookshop.com/event

FRIDAY • OCTOBER 28TH

GHOSTLY GRAVEYARD GATHERING

Peddlers Village 6:30pm – 10:00pm

Don your best costume, or dress in black for a spirited evening with live DJ, club-style dancing, fire pits, games, photos, and more! Cash bar, pay-as-you-go food trucks. Cash prizes will be awarded for best Halloween costume. Must be 21 & up to attend.

https://peddlersvillage.com/festivals

“Kindness costs nothing; generosity of spirit is as free as the wind.”

Joanne Petrun

Edie Weinstein

arts • music

Meet Superunknown’s Jason Reed

Tell me a little bit about Superunknown and how you got started.

I started Superunknown in 2018 as a solo acoustic tribute to Chris Cornell. Back then, I did several shows with a Foo Fighters Tribute band called Whit Limo. Ron DiSilvestro, the drummer for White Limo, offered to have his band back me if I ever wanted to expand to a full band version of Superunknown. I took him up on his offer and in February 2019 we did our first full band show.

Your band is playing at The New Hope Winery on Friday, October 7th. Have you ever played there before?

This is our first time playing the New Hope Winery. We’ve heard great things about this venue from our friends in the Ledbetters so we can’t wait for the show.

You recently played in Guantanamo Bay on the Fourth of July, how did that gig come about?

We started working with Armed Forces Entertainment (AFE) through Degy Entertainment back in 2019. The organization invited us to play at a base in Honduras for their Summer Heatwave tour. AFE’s mission with that tour was to provide live entertainment at as many US Military bases around the world as possible for the Fourth of July. The program stalled out for a couple of summers due to the pandemic, but it resumed this summer. We were invited to play at the Naval base in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. That show was especially important to me because I served at Gitmo with the Marines 27 years ago. It was definitely a surreal experience going back there.

What are some of your favorite songs to perform live?

My favorite songs to perform live are some of the old songs going back to the Badmotorfinger record. It’s for nostalgic reasons, I guess. That was my entry point for Soundgarden back in 1991. Songs like Outshined and Searching with my Good Eye Closed. I think for most people, we hear a ton of great music over the course of a lifetime but the music we fall in love with in our youth always seems to hold a special place.

Find more information about the band at: https://www.thesoundgardentribute.com

Reimagined Production of “Evita” Gets Second Life at Bucks County Playhouse, September 23 – October 30

The rags to riches story of one of the world’s most charismatic and controversial political figures receives a new look, in an exciting, intimate production at Bucks County Playhouse, September 23 – October 30. With lyrics by Andrew Lloyd Webber and music by Tim Rice, “Evita” is reimagined for the Bucks County Playhouse stage by Director Will Pomerantz, and Choreographer Marcos Santana. “Evita” is presented in association with Bay Street Theater.

This new, dance-centric production of “Evita!” eschews the traditional setting of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s beloved rock opera and sets it in the basement of an Argentinian tango bar. The concept for the Playhouse production was first seen and produced at Bay Street Theater in August 2018 under the direction of Pomerantz with Scott Schwartz, Artistic Director and Tracy Mitchell, Executive Director.

This revival of Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s iconic musical, “Evita,” takes a fresh look at the life of the former First Lady of Argentina Eva Peron. The icon’s rise and fall is revisited through the eyes of her supporters, who have clandestinely gathered in a tango club ten years after her death to celebrate her life. The classic score features some of Webber and Tim Rice’s biggest hits, including “Don’t Cry for Me Argentina”, “High Flying, Adored” and “Another Suitcase in Another Hall.”

The Playhouse production will play

the following schedule: Tuesdays at 7:30 pm, 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 (Except Saturday, September 24), and Sundays at 2:00 pm. The opening performance will be held Saturday, September 24 at 7:30 pm. There will be a special school day matinee on Thursday, October 20 at 11 a.m.

Single tickets to “Evita” are on sale now. Tickets start at $70. Reduced rates for groups of 10 or more are available. Some performances have limited availability. For complete details, and to purchase tickets, please visit buckscountyplayhouse.org or call 215-862-2121.

The 93rd Juried Art Show at Phillips’ Mill Welcomes Art Lovers Daily Through October 30

The 93rd Juried Art Show at Phillips’ Mill is in full swing through October 30, welcoming art lovers with over 100 framed pieces and sculptures plus a bounty of unframed portfolio pieces in a range of media. With over 600 submissions this year, the show was bound to be a success. The premiere art event in the area, and a tradition for almost a century, you don’t want to miss it.

Stop into the charming, 18th-century grist mill just north of New Hope and see for yourself. The Mill is hung to the rafters with the extraordinary work of artists who make Bucks County, the River Towns, and nearby areas their home, including the Mill’s 2022 Honored Artist, Luiz Vilela of Lambertville, and the creator of the show’s Signature Image, “Lights at Night,” Patricia Allingham Carlson of Hatfield.

Many of the works express inspiration from the natural beauty of the area, while others are more abstract or simply draw on experiences from beyond. Traditional and contemporary, soothing and thoughtprovoking, there is work to satisfy everyone’s tastes. All works are for sale, including that of Vilela and Carlson. Purchases can be made both at the Mill, and online where the entire show can be viewed at https://www. phillipsmill.org/art/juried-art-show.

If you enjoy engaging in conversations with artists, or follow your favorites in the area, be sure to also look for the “Meet the Artists” schedule on the Mill’s website. Artists will be on hand at the Mill throughout the run of the show to meet and greet visitors, discuss their work, and share their love of the arts.

Phillips’ Mill Community Association, the birthplace of Pennsylvania Impressionism, has served as a meeting and exhibition space for artists since 1929. The Association is proud of its heritage and invites and welcomes the membership of all who love and are interested in the arts. For more information about membership and the 93rd Juried Art Show at Phillips’ Mill visit www.phillipsmill.org.

Friday, October 7 - 8:30pm $10

Open stage night hosted by Bucks County comic Tim Conniff

Saturday, October 8 - 8:30pm $25

Steve Young an award-winning TV writer for the show ‘Boy Meets World’ and the Tonight Show, Helene Angley, Glenn Freezman, David Graham, Tim Conniff

Friday - Saturday, October 14 - 15

8:30pm $25

Seen on showtime and BET Coleman Green, Seen on Mind TV Corey Alexander, seen on Tonight Show Anita Wise and Bucks County Comic Tim Conniff

Friday, October 21 - 8:30pm $25

Sheila Kay twice nominated as “Funniest

Female Comic in the USA” at the American Comedy Awards! She’s been seen on ABC, CBS, NBC and Comedy Central! And Pat O’Donnell seen on ABC, NBC, A&E, ESPN, Showtime and Comedy Central, it’s Impressionist Patrick O’Donnell! He’s written jokes for ‘The Tonight Show’ And Bucks County comic Tim Conniff.

Saturday, October 22 - 8:30pm $25

Sheila Kay, Bill Boronkay, Kevin Israel, and Dr. Scarpati

Friday - Saturday, October 28 - 29 8:30pm $25

Seen on HBO the ‘Propman’ the ‘Crazy Wid’ and Helene Angley, John Kensil and Tim Conniff

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

Jason Reed

Gabriella Enriquez as Eva Peron in “Evita”

Luiz Vilela, 2022 Honored Artist of the 93rd Juried Art Show at Phillips’ Mill

arts • music

Bucks Fever FilmFest: The Central Bucks Chamber Supports the Arts in Bucks County

Artist Spotlight

The Bucks Fever FilmFest is an annual, juried festival. It includes the screenwriting competition as well as Winning short films submitted by high school, college and emerging filmmakers are screened at the County Theater in Doylestown, PA on October 16. Also, it includes the screenwriting competition.

Upcoming events:

M y name is Christie Hurley and I own Threads by Gram, an embroidery and handmade business, with my husband, Derek Hurley. We began this business out of necessity during the pandemic. We made face masks and that gradually transformed into a passion. We believe that women should be able to feel good and wear the highest quality embroidered products every day.

The Filmmaker Panel Discussion will be held on October 15 at the Tile Works, 130 E Swamp Rd, in Doylestown. Our topic of discussion is “How to get your film made on a budget”. Events include Film Crawl, Awards Ceremony, Film Maker, Panel Discussion, Table Read, and Finalist Films screened and mingle with the winning filmmakers and supporters of the film community at the VIP Reception on October 16th at the Hattery in Doylestown. View the winning films at the county theater and discover the winners of the screenwriting competition! Also vote for

the Fan Favorite Film. Visit www.bucksfeverfilmfest.org for more information and to purchase tickets.

The Executive Producer Sponsor is C&N Co-Producer Sponsor is PECO Associate Producer Sponsor is Silverman Partnerships

You’ll Never Bike Alone

By Lauren Heine Special to The Cardinal

Tell us about yourself. When did your journey with art begin?

My journey with art began as a little kid. I grew up with a dad who was an engineer and a mom who was crafty in every sense.

I watched my mom from a young age sew and I helped her make many things. My background is in architectural engineering, so I have a passion for technical programs and art. I love bringing to life a real tangible product from designing and programming on a computer to something that you can use every day, which is exactly what machine embroidery is to me.

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

My focus is mainly on the machine embroidery, while “Gram” focuses on everything handmade. Once I have an idea of a product or type of design I want to do, I will search online for inspiration. Once I have that design, I will digitize it in a software program meant for machine embroidery. Understanding how your design will stitch out based on what you digitized is the fun part because there are always small changes a piece might need to turn it into a high-quality product.

Who or what is a big inspiration for you?

Seeing other female entrepreneurs who are artists running their own businesses is a big inspiration to me. I love learning and growing alongside others that share the same passion of art and business.

How do you like being a local artist in Doylestown?

Being a local artist in Doylestown has opened up many doors for us and we are extremely grateful to have found a community at Maker’s Off Main. Everyone is always willing to help and guide us when we have questions. One of my favorite things is getting to meet other small business owners in person.

Where can we find your work?

You can find our work at Maker’s Off Main in Doylestown, Maker’s Vintage + Handmade in Dublin, online at our website, https://threadsbygram.com/, Etsy at ThreadsByGram and we sell wholesale products on Faire.com. We also attend a few craft fairs each year, so follow us on Instagram to find out more (@threadsbygram).

The County Theater: News Reel

By Tim Hansen Special to The Cardinal

As I was growing up it was always exciting to take a trip to the movies with my family or friends. I would attend a local family matinee with my parents, settle in with my popcorn, and watch the big screen in wonder. I did not know it then, but all of those great times spent at the theater nurtured a deeply felt, indelible affection for going to the movies.

The County Theater will be resuming the County Theater’s Family Matinees series starting in October. The series begins with Coraline featuring Dakota Fanning and animation by Laika Studios on Saturday, October 1 at 11:00 AM. Followed by Scooby-Doo (2002) featuring Linda Cardellini on Saturday, October 15 at 11:00 AM, and Annie (1982) featuring Carol Burnett which will screen on Saturday, November 19 at 11:00 AM. Tickets are $5 each and admission is free for members and their children.

Nestled

high atop a hill off of Route 202 sits a farm adjacent to a stately red home. The wrap-around porch greets visitors with a row of black rocking chairs, creating the perfect spot to enjoy a cup of tea and watch the deer graze. Or, if you’re Oscar Hammerstein II, write multiple awardwinning musicals. The Oscar Hammerstein Museum and Theatre Education Center (OHMTEC) mission is to make sure Hammerstein’s home at Highland Farm will stand the test of time for musical and history lovers alike.

Something Good

OHMTEC is a nonprofit organization with a mission to obtain and restore the historic 4.9-acre Highland Farm. Hammerstein spent the last 20 years of his life at the farm and wrote the lyrics to Oklahoma!, Carousel, The King and I, South Pacific, and The Sound of Music there. OHMETC’s vision is to build a public museum with a theatre education program to “provide underserved communities the opportunity to pursue their passion in theatre.”

Getting to Know You

Rick James is a local history buff, cyclist, and entrepreneur. After leaving the corporate world in 2013, he combined his passions and founded “Encore Rides.” This unique concept incorporates scenic Bucks County roads and bike paths with stops at historical landmarks filled with folklore and facts.

James’ interests led him to become involved with the Doylestown Historical Society, Central Bucks Bike Club, and Central Bucks Rotary. He also volunteers as Board President of Health Link Dental Clinic that provides free care to low income earners in Bucks and Montgomery Counties. It’s no surprise the mission of OHMTEC stirred philanthropic James to put his services in motion with “Save the House Tour.”

Shall We… Ride?

James will be donating all of his proceeds from his fundraising bike tour “Save the House Tour” to benefit OHMTEC. This is his second year providing the 5 mile/90 minute bike tour on low traveled roads and bike trails through Doylestown that includes local historical site stops and information.

The tour on Saturday, October 8th, 2022 will start and end at Oscar’s home, which also operates as Highland Farm Bed and Breakfast), located at 70 East road, Doylestown. Enjoy a tour of the home after your ride and get inspired by its rich history.

James is offering two rides starting at 11 am and 2 pm. The cost is $50 a rider (bring your own bike). Each tour is limited to 15 people so register ASAP by calling 215-534-2723 or www.fundraiser.support/ BIKETOUR

If you are moved by James’ fundraising efforts but cannot secure a ride because the tour has been sold out (or biking is just not your thing) please visit hammersteinmuseum. org to make a donation. Be sure to mention “Save the House Tour” in your comments.

The County Theater also has wonderful films scheduled to honor the Halloween season so that you, and all of your friends can make a trip to the movies a part of your spooky fun. The Craft featuring Neve Campbell will screen on Friday, October 21 at 9:45 PM, followed by John Carpenter’s The Thing featuring Kurt Russell on Thursday, October 27 at 7:00 PM. On Halloween night Brian De Palma’s Carrie featuring Sissy Spacek will terrify audiences at 7:30 PM. These Horror classics are not to be missed on the big screen, so enjoy the festive fun!

County Theater and Siren Records are coming together to bring some favorites to music fans. This dynamic collaboration presents to you the Films that Rock! series. Things kicked off this past September 21 with Director D.A. Pennebaker’s Monterey Pop, a documentary capturing the legendary performances of Jimi Hendrix, Ravi Shankar, Janis Joplin, Otis Redding, Simon and Garfunkel, and many more at the 1967 Monterey International Pop Festival.

Monterey Pop had audiences bobbing their heads, tapping their toes, and maybe even playing a little air guitar. Films that Rock! continues with a screening of Gimme Shelter, the acclaimed music documentary that chronicles the Rolling Stones’ 1969 tour and the group’s now infamous concert at Altamont Speedway. This classic of the genre screens at the County Theater on Thursday, November 10 at 7:00 PM.

For more information, or to become a member of the County Theater please visit www.countytheater.org

Dan the Man Trivia Questions

Question – What famous pianist founded Rocket Records in 1973?

Answer: Elton John

Question – What children’s author wrote the poem which was adapted into the Johnny Cash song “A Boy Named Sue?”

Answer Shel Silverstein

Question – What author and philosopher lived on the shores of Walden pond?

Answer: Henry David Thoreau

Dad Joke

How much does a chimney cost? Answer: Nothing, it’s on the house

What do you call a waffle on the beach? Answer: A sandy Eggo

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

Photo by Aaron Mitchell Photography

Brought to you by Makers Off Main

Christie Hurley

“Save the House Tour” Fundraiser to Benefit Oscar Hammerstein Museum and Theatre Education Center

arts • music Bucks County Symphony Orchestra Opens its 70th Anniversary Season

The Bucks County Symphony Orchestra celebrates the beginning of its 70th Anniversary Season with a fall concert on Saturday, October 22 at 8:00 p.m. at Central Bucks High School East in Buckingham. The BCSO introduces its new Music Director, Maestro José Luis Domínguez.

The BCSO opens this festive season with Jean Sibelius’ powerful and majestic Finlandia. Considered Finland’s greatest composer and a national hero, Sibelius celebrates through his music a strong love for his homeland’s natural beauty and expresses his country’s pride and patriotism.

Featured in the program is internationally recognized harpist Claire Thai, who joins the BCSO in a performance of the Harp Concerto by Argentinean composer Alberto Ginastera. Premiered by The Philadelphia Orchestra in 1965, this intricate and virtuosic work is the perfect showcase for Ms. Thai’s incredible talent.

The BCSO concludes the concert with Antonín Dvorák’s Symphony No. 8. Composed in 1859, the music evokes the spirit of pastoral Bohemia, heavily

influenced by the nation’s folk music and the serene sounds of nature. The symphony has been described as one of sunny and genial optimism, suggesting the work of a composer

José Luis Domínguez, Music Director

at peace with himself and his world.

Tickets, $25 in advance and $20 for seniors, can be purchased in Doylestown at Rutherford’s Camera Shop and the Doylestown Bookshop, or online at BucksCountySymphony.org. Students are admitted free. Call 215-348-7321 or visit the website for more information. Please check Event Information on the Fall Concert Page at BucksCountySymphony.org for the most current public health-related admission recommendations or requirements.

About the Bucks County Symphony Orchestra

For 70 years, the Bucks County Symphony Orchestra has enriched the community with performances of classical music in local venues at affordable ticket prices. Its board members and the majority of its musicians are volunteers committed to enriching the musical arts in Bucks County and surrounding communities. The Bucks County Symphony Orchestra continues to carry forth the mission of its founders: sharing the joy of symphonic music through live performance and educational outreach.

Starring Jennifer Conney and directed by Jim Henson, this imaginative tale of a journey through the unknown features sophisticated puppetry and off-kilter rock songs, written by David Bowie.

For more information and tickets visit https://www.mercermuseum.org/event/ movies-at-the-mercer-labyrinth

3. Bucks County Playhouse: The Rocky Horror Skivvies Show

On Oct. 26, the Skivvies (Nick Cearley and Lauren Molina) return to Bucks County Playhouse for The Rocky Horror Skivvies Show, a Halloween concert treat that puts their signature stripped-down Skivvies stamp of mash-ups and medleys on the iconic score from the cult classic musical.

For more information and tickets visit: https://bcptheater.secure.force.com/ ticket#

4. The Bucks County Civil War Museum: Haunted Civil War Tour

If you didn’t know that Doylestown is a home to its very own civil war museum, now is the perfect time to find out. The Bucks County Civil War Museum and the James-Lorah Memorial Home welcome you to a spooky evening tour of the Civil War Era. The ghosts of the civil war era will rise from the grave to recount their experiences of life and death at war. The event, which runs on Sat Oct. 22 2022 at 6:30 pm and Oct. 29 2022 9:30 pm will also feature a Victorian wake and some bizarre 19th century death customs and superstitions.

Contact the Bucks County Civil War Roundtable Museum and Library at (215) 822-1562 for more information and to reserve your spot.

5. Phoenix Sports Club: the Valley of Fear

Providing terrifying frights for many years, the Valley of Fear at the Phoenix Sports Club brings together everything spooky - a hayride, a shipwreck cove, and a haunted house. Screams and scare-jumps guaranteed. The Valley of Fear in 2022 will be running from 7pm to 10pm nightly, Sept. 23-25; Sept. 30, Oct. 1, Oct. 7-9 , Oct. 13 - 16; Oct. 20 - 23; Oct. 27-30.

For more information and tickets visit https://valleyoffear.com

6. Roxey Ballet: Dracula

Performance art can be scary, too. Mark Roxey successfully combines contemporary choreography, brilliant videography, striking minimalist sets, lavish costumes and world-class artistry to recreate Dracula. Sink your teeth into the Gothic tale of Dracula as he struggles against the power of the cross and his love of Lucy. The performance runs on October 21, 22, 23, 28, 29, and 30.

For more information and tickets visit https://www.roxeyballet.org/dracula

7. ACME Screening Room: Halloween Film Festival

Famous for its Halloween spirit, Lambertville, NJ is proud to own its nickname “Halloweenville.” The town’s first annual Lambertville Halloween Film Festival will take place October 21-23. This year’s festival spans three days of events, including a masquerade party, a selection of horror films, a demonstration of Hollywood monster makeup, and numerous local artists and vendors.

For more information visit https:// www.acmescreeningroom.org/lhff

HALLOWEEN ACTIVITIES

To learn more about Bucks County Symphony Orchestra, visit BucksCountySymphony.org.

Claire Thai, Harpist

Ongoing 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

September 17 – November 6

The Count’s Halloween Spooktacular

Sesame Place

Come in costume and celebrate silly, nottoo-spooky fun at The Count’s Halloween Spooktacular at Sesame Place! The park will be transformed into a family-friendly Halloween haven and guests will enjoy trick-or-treating around the park, Halloween-themed shows and parades, participating in our interactive Scarecrow Scavenger Hunt, and unique photo opportunities with everyone’s favorite furry friends dressed up in costume!

https://sesameplace.com/philadelphia/events/ halloween-spooktacular/

Weekends Only – October 8 - 30

Boo at the Zoo

Elmwood Park Zoo 12:00pm – 3:00pm

Bring your little ghouls and ghosts to our annual Halloween haunt, where the entire zoo is transformed for a kooky, spooky Halloween celebration! Come dressed in your most creative costume and march in our costume parade (2:30 PM at the Bison stage). Adults are encouraged to dress up, too! And don’t forget to bring your trick-or-treat bag, as treat and activity stations will be located throughout the zoo. https://www. elmwoodparkzoo.org/event/

choose a child project for each child from the available options. 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 and wood stain colors in the workshop. Pre-registration is required. https://boardandbrush.com/doylestown

Saturday • October 8

Spider’s Tea Party

Peace Valley Nature Center 2:00pm – 3:30pm

Registration required. Members-Free/Nonmembers - $5.00.

Bring along your favorite stuffed pal and join us on this whimsical say! We will listen to some fantastical tales read by Mrs. Spider, and enjoy a tea party in the forest. An adult must attend the children. https://www.peacevalleynaturecenter. org/upcoming-events

Saturday • October 15

Lolly Hopwood Concert on the Lake

1:00pm – 2:30pm

No registration. No fee. Join local musical star Lolly Hopwood for a nature-themed kids concert overlooking Lake Galena. Bring your chairs and blankets and be ready for a great time. Show will take place next to the gazebo at the Peace Valley Nature Center. https://www. peacevalleynaturecenter.org/upcoming-events

Friday • October 21

Zoosnooze

Elmwood Park Zoo 6:00pm - 9:30am

Campout Includes: Dinner (includes pizza, salad, and potato chips), Breakfast (includes pastries and fresh fruit), Flashlight tour of the zoo, Campfire & activities, educational show the next morning, Zoo admission the next day. PRICING: $44.95 per member/ $54.95 per non-member. https://www.elmwoodparkzoo.org/event/

Wednesday • October 26

Quiet Mornings

Elmwood Park Zoo 9:00am – 10:00am

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). https://www.elmwoodparkzoo.org/event/

Friday • October 28

Boo at the Barn 5:00pm – 8:00pm

Boo at the Barn is our annual Trick-or-Treating event at the Nature Center, fun for the whole family! It includes crafts, skulls, games, snacks, and animal encounters, as well as live music and a costume contest. We ask for a $15 donation per person. Come in costume and fill your bag with candy! Register here: https://www. barnnaturecenter.org/seasonal-events.html

Saturday • October 29

Slightly Batty Halloween Wing-Ding Peddlers Village 12:00pm – 3:00pm

Healthy Halloween Hacks

By Ariel Mann Special to The Cardinal

Attention, everybody! In case you need to hear this: you’re allowed to eat candy this time of year, it’s Halloween! But, here are some healthy fall hacks to keep you on track and prevent you from eating the entire bowl of candy or going into a pumpkin spice coma before November.

Plan to have a healthy meal before trick or treating. Halloween is on a Monday this year and Mondays are hectic in general! Prepare a simple protein-rich meal on Sunday. Heat it up on Monday before you embark on the candy trail. It will help keep you full and those cravings to a minimum.

Leftover Halloween candy can be very tempting. You’ll probably grab a piece (or 10) everytime you walk past the bowl. Put the candy somewhere out of eyesight and out of reach so you really have to work to grab a handful.

Let yourself enjoy pumpkin spice lattesthey are only around one time of year. When ordering this fall favorite, consider reducing to 1-2 pumps of flavor, opt for no whip or light whip cream, or order a 12oz instead of a larger size. There are a lot of healthy recipes online if you have time and want to make one at home. I use pumpkin spice protein powder and mix it with my coffee and it tastes like autumn in a cup.

Use your candy or latte as a reward. Once you finish a task that you need to

do - treat yourself. Did you pack your kids lunches and get them to school on time? Great! Go get that latte. Did you finish all of your important emails for the day or meet a project deadline? Handful of candy for you!

Remember that you are human and if you eat a handful of candy or get your latte with all the whip cream, it won’t derail the progress you’re making. Be mindful, allow yourself to indulge, and get back to putting the work into yourself after.

Fall Festivals For Family Fun!

Sunday • October 2

Pick Your Project Parent Workshop Board and Brush 10:45am – 2:00pm

Looking for a fun experience to share with your children? Join us for our Parent & Child Workshop! Select an adult project from our gallery, then

Calling all Ghosts and Goblins! Dress in your spookiest or most original Halloween costume and come on out to Peddler’s Village Slightly Batty Halloween Wing-Ding! Explore our haunted grounds, let loose at a spooky dance party, and take part in games such as pumpkin bowling, and musical chairs. Prizes will be awarded for all kids participating in the Halloween costume contest. Get a thrill out of pizza, refreshments, and frighteningly delicious desserts. This Halloween Wing-Ding promises to bring the fun to you and your family!

Fall

isn’t complete without a festival to celebrate the changing of the leaves, the chill in the air, and, of course, Halloween! Luckily, we live in Bucks County, and farms with corn mazes and pumpkin patches are plentiful. We are excited for this festive season, and you should be too! Check out these four local fall festivals to get you and the family into the spirit.

Froehlich’s Farm and Garden Fall Festival - Furlong

The festival is held right on the 100-acre farm throughout the month of October. Froehlich’s Farm offers the perfect fall adventure, with fun for all ages. Fall Fest includes Hayrides, Corn Maze, PickYour-Own Pumpkin Patch, Moon Bounce, Inflatable Obstacle Course, Pony Rides and Petting Zoo on select dates, Slides, The Cow Train, Kids Crafts, Hay Maze, Toddler Hay Climb, Scarecrows, Live Music, Great Food, Local Breweries, Home Baked Goods and more.

www.facebook.com/froehlichsfarm

Hellericks Farm Fall Festival – Doylestown

Bring your family and friends to the rolling hills of Bucks County, PA amidst the beauty of fall’s finest colors to enjoy a great day of fun on the farm.  General Admission includes entry to the 18-acre

Adventure Farm area which includes a Hayride, 2 Corn mazes, Farm animals, 3 slides, Tractor Tire playground and 40+ activities for children and adults of all ages. Don’t forget to ask about their Goat Yoga! Open Daily.

https://hellericksfarm.com/fall-festival

Shady Brook Farm Fall Fest - Yardley

Fall is Shady Brook’s favorite time of year! Come celebrate the season with them and check out their Eerie Illuminations Wagon Ride and Light Show. This Halloween experience features enchanting Halloween displays synchronized to music. Other fall activities include a haunted barn, corn maze, apple and pumpkin picking, bonfires and so much more! This is a must this season!

https://shadybrookfarm.com/pages/fallfest

Bountiful Acres - Holicong (1 mile south of Peddlers Village)

This fall, weekends at Bountiful Acres are filled with Fall Family FUN Activities. Activities include pumpkin picking, corn maze, hayrides, children’s train rides, and special musical performances by YOYO and much more. Bountiful Acres is a proud partner of Pine2Pink. Open during the weekends in October from 10am-4pm.

https://bountifulacres.com/fall-family-fun

biz bits

John R. Bromiley Company Invites Local Community to Tour its Facility for Manufacturing Day, October 7

By Laurie Liddy Special to The Cardinal

In celebration of Manufacturing Day John R. Bromiley Company in Chalfont is hosting an Open House on Friday, October 7, 9:00 Am to 4:30 pm. Students, parents, educators, and community members are invited to stop by and tour the facility for a first-hand look inside a manufacturing facility.

“After nearly 50 years in business, this is the first time we’re opening our doors for ‘ringside’ look at what we do,” says Jason Bromiley, President, and business owner. “We want students and their parents to see some of the cool things we make. For example, parts for F-16 aircraft and precision components for the instrumentation, aerospace, medical, electric power, and telecommunications industries.”

One of the challenges in building a quality workforce, Jason explains, has been getting around an age-old stigma attached to the industry. “When people hear manufacturing, they often think of a dark, greasy shop, or a dead-end, unfulfilling job,” Bromiley said. “On the contrary, manufacturing has been at the

center of some of the most important work done in response to the pandemic. It’s a job to be proud of. And skilled trade careers are becoming more sought after as students look for alternatives to college.”

Over the next decade, manufacturers will be looking to fill about four million jobs, according to research by Deloitte and the Manufacturing Institute.

“There’s a lot of heart, soul and grit in our business,” says Bromiley. His father, John R. Bromiley, built the company from the ground up. Starting out in his garage with one machine and a strong handshake, he grew the company to a 40-person state of the art operation in a 23,000 square foot facility. While carrying on his father’s legacy, Jason is shining a spotlight on new technology advancements and training to help inspire the next generation of workers.

“Manufacturing is at the center of America’s future,” Bromiley says. We welcome people considering a new career, a skilled job, or just curious about what goes on behind the scenes of our building facade. We welcome everyone to stop by the Open House on October 7.”

Look for more information to follow on John R. Bromiley Company social media pages: (Instagram) @BromileyMachine

What is Manufacturing Day (MFD)?

MFD is a national annual event sponsored by the Manufacturing Institute on the first Friday of October each year.

MFD kicks off a month of events across the nation to help to raise awareness of careers in modern manufacturing. The Manufacturing Institute’s diverse initiatives support all American workers, through skilled training programs, community building, and career growth. The agency’s mission is to inspire, educate and empower the manufacturing workforce of today and tomorrow.

Want to learn more? Visit The Manufacturing Institute visit https://www. themanufacturinginstitute.org/about

A Fall Financial Checklist

By Brian Pultro, AIF, BFA, RFC® The Cardinal Contributing Writer

Autumn’s return brings cool breezes, comforting foods, and pumpkins. Fall is also a bookmark of sorts, especially for your finances. It’s a perfect time to take stock of your spending after the summer’s over and to see what lies ahead. Here are some tips that can help you make simple, sensible choices and make the most of your money.

Bask in the Bounty

Harvest time is all about fresh food. You can get more bang for your buck by doing a few simple things.

Fall Fruits and Veggies:

This one’s all about supply and demand: you can usually get good prices on in-season fruits and veggies because they’re so plentiful. So, stock up on autumn produce like apples, beets, pomegranates, squashes, and sweet potatoes.. They’ll be bursting with flavor and health benefits, especially at the local farmers market, without busting your budget.

Store Up Soup:

Speaking of fresh vegetables, they go well in soup, making it easier for you to maximize the produce you buy. A bonus for your bottom line: soup also freezes quite well. It can last up to three months frozen. Make one large pot of it and feed your family for weeks.

Focus on Financials

It’s been said that planning is bringing the future into the present so you can do something about it now. That’s especially true when it comes to your end-of-year finances.

Work Benefits:

Company benefits often begin on January 1. Pay close attention to your company’s open enrollment period to determine the best insurance options for you and your family. Consider benefits like a flexible savings account (FSA), health savings account (HSA), and a 401(k)especially if there’s company matching - to determine what would best suit your family.

Keep in mind that just because your benefit choices worked for you this year, it doesn’t mean they will next year. Also make sure to use money in your FSA if there’s an end-of-year deadline. Finally, any companysponsored discounts, such as a weight-loss program or gym membership, need to be submitted by the end of the year. Make sure to submit the paperwork to cash in.

Education:

If you have kids in college, look ahead to the spring semester. Keep an eye out for federal financial aid (FAFSA) application dates, which usually open in early fall. Spring tuition for many colleges can be due as early as November and as late as January, so mark it on your calendar and plan accordingly to avoid getting docked with late fees.

Investments:

New tax guidelines and laws tend to go into effect in the new year. Plan ahead your investments such as your stock portfolio or loans. Stay well-educated about your options and about what’s happening going forward. The best course of action? Touch base with

your financial advisor, who can steer you on the path that’s right for you.

Holiday Shopping:

Many times, I’ve paid the price, literally and figuratively, for waiting until December to take care of my holiday shopping. When you’re desperate, stock is depleted, and the calendar is dwindling down, you’ll tend to pay full price. But if you’re smart about it, you can plan ahead and avoid the holiday rush.

During the next several weeks between now and Black Friday, be intentional as you prepare for what you want to buy and what you want to pay for it. Scour the internet, and keep a spreadsheet of prices. That way, you’ll get a sense of what you can expect to spend and what’s a good deal.

Also, be sure to set aside a little money out of every paycheck for the holidays. If you get paid biweekly, two months out of the year have an extra payday. October is one such month this year. See if you can dedicate part or all your extra check to your holiday shopping, which will really help when the January credit card bills arrive.

Don’t Wait for Winter

Take advantage of the lovely autumn weather to cut down your bills and prevent high costs.

Home:

Fall is a great time to get your home ready inside and out for winter, which can offer big cost savings. Cleaning out your gutters in late autumn, when all the leaves have fallen, can help you avoid drainage trouble in winter, when it might also be difficult to remedy the situation.

If your driveway or sidewalk needs repair, do it now before rain and ice seep into the cracks and holes, potentially causing costly underlying damage. And speaking of ice, make sure that you remove outdoor hoses. Turn off your water supply to outdoor spigots, and drain them to prevent pipes from freezing.

Inside, you can cut down on future bills by ensuring your home is warm during the coming months. Have your furnace and fireplace, if you have one, serviced. Change filters to ensure peak capacity and check your windows and doors for drafts and cracks, sealing where needed.

Car:

Much like you can do with your home, taking necessary steps to winterize your car now can save you financial headaches down the (icy) road. Check your antifreeze level and temperature, tread life, and balance of your tires. Monitor the conditions of your wipers and windshield fluid levels. Have your heater and defrosters checked to make sure they are functioning well, and make sure you have an emergency kit.

Brian Pultro is a Doylestown native, Navy Veteran, and local Financial Advisor. His practice is built upon the foundations of “Behavioral Finance” and training individuals and families on how to take natural human emotions out of the investment process.

Pultro Financial Management (215) 489-3876 • brian.pultro@LPL.com

Delaware Valley UniversityAnnounces New Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs

Dr. Gloria Oikelome will join Delaware Valley University as Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs effective Monday, October 3, 2022. She will report to University President Benjamin E. Rusiloski, Ph.D., and serve on his Cabinet.

Dr. Oikelome will be responsible for all aspects of academic affairs for the University including strategic planning, the Faculty, development and implementation of new programs, curriculum, and academic support for undergraduate, graduate and continuing and professional studies in DelVal’s four schools: School of Graduate and Professional Studies, School of Business and Humanities, School of Life and Physical Sciences, and the School of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences. She will also have responsibility for Distance Education and Education Technology, the Registrar’s office, Institutional Research, the Library, and Military and Veteran’s Affairs.

development opportunities in both the United States and the United Kingdom. She also brings community partnership experience having worked with local and regional community leaders, private funders, grant agencies, and K-12 partners to facilitate and increase opportunities for higher education attainment.

In addition to academic leadership, Dr. Oikelome develops and facilitates programming for various educational institutions, non-profits and NGOs dedicated to educating, empowering, and advocating for women, youth, and underrepresented communities in several African countries, a commitment for which she has received several awards. She also serves as a STEM ambassador working to engage and mentor women and underrepresented populations in STEM careers.

Central Bucks Chamber of Commerce Scheduled Events

October 6

Art Exhibition & Sculpture Show Non-Member Entry Fee Chamber HeadquartersBailiwick Office Campus, Suite 23, 252 W. Swamp Rd., Doylestown

October 11

Link at Lunch Sponsored by NJM Insurance Group and Univest Financial Chambers 19 Bistro & Bar, 19 N Main Street, Doylestown 12:00 p.m.

Make connections with chamber members during lunch at Chambers 19 Bistro & Bar sponsored by NJM Insurance Group and Univest Financial Non-members can attend one lunch when hosted by a Chamber member.

October 15

She has extensive experience in teaching, leading, designing, developing, and implementing educational programs (particularly in STEM and Health Sciences), continuing education, and workforce

Bucks Fever Film Fest Weekend Doylestown, Bucks County, FilmFest Weekend includes: Awards Night, Film Crawl, Filmmaker Panel Discussion, VIP Reception, Screening. Join us in honoring local filmmakers and screenwriters. Tickets can be purchased at: www.bucksfeverfilmfest.org

Executive Producer Sponsor: C&N

HIGHER RATES, WHY BUY?

Patrick Mencel Special to The Cardinal

Over the past six months, we’ve been waiting for the housing market to shift, but no one knew what that would look like since the market is unpredictable. Making headlines this week is the jump in the national average for mortgage interest rates to over 6 percent. Rates have doubled from where they were a year ago, reaching the highest they’ve been since 2008.

With such a strong economy, it makes us wonder how much longer we can remain in a seller’s market, meaning low inventory and historically high sales prices. Lately, even with higher rates, homes for sale are still seeing multiple offers, contingencies waived, and are selling for over asking price. With this big jump, will that change?

People ask me all the time, why should I buy now? My answer is that it depends on the motivation. If you are looking to cash out, sure you’ll get top dollar for your house, but you’ll most likely overspend on your new purchase. So, if your choice is to cash out, consider using more money to put down on the house and finance less with the idea that once rates drop again, you can refinance. If your motivation is to upsize, downsize, or relocate, why wait? There are still ways to get where you want to be.

For the next couple weeks, you may see deals falling apart and buyers pulling out if they have yet to lock in their rates before closing. This is why it’s a good idea to make sure you’re not overspending your loan limits. It may be a good time to remain

October 27 Chamber NET

5:00 pm - 7:00 pm

New Hope Winery, 6123 Lower York Road, New Hope Networking Event Tonight at the New Hope Winery. Cash bar. Sponsored by Provident Bank.

modest. If you have the money, cash offers are still the best because they don’t come with a mortgage contingency and a seller doesn’t have to worry about them being affected by rates.

If you don’t have the cash, regardless of the rates, real estate is always a great investment in the long run and a lot of buyers may fear the rates, offering less competition. Also, rate hikes will continue to cause price decreases on houses, so being able to purchase a home with a lower sales price is always better than purchasing a home that’s overpriced. Ultimately, what these higher rates will do is create a new idea of what market value truly is.

With all of that said, if you are thinking about moving, consider doing a preapproval and speaking with your lender about what refinancing would look like down the road. As far as what the future holds, it’s important to remember that higher rates are controlled by the Federal Reserve and are the outcome of a strong economy with the intention of getting Americans to spend less. Home prices need to come down and inventory needs to bounce back for us to experience a stable and normal housing market.

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.

October 30 Emergency Services Awards 5:30 to 9:00 Chamber Headquarters - Bailiwick Office Campus, Suite 23, 252 W. Swamp Rd., Doylestown The CBCC Emergency Services Awards have been an integral part of the chamber for five decades. This year the EMS Awards celebrates 50 years honoring volunteer firefighter and ambulance volunteers for their devotion to saving lives and property.

Dr. Gloria Oikelome