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14 For Love of Country
Reginald M. Browne helps to lead the United States to a milestone celebration.
18 A Local Vibe
Bowman’s continues its tradition of being a neighborhood gathering place with good times, delicious food, and lively entertainment.
22 One Seed at a Time Bucks Beautiful is budding with ideas to make the county attractive for years to come. IN EVERY ISSUE
4 PUBLISHER’S NOTE April’s Warm Welcome
6 LOCAL PULSE Bite-Sized Updates 8 Q&A Vincent Scanlon 12 LOCAL TASTES Seasonal Sips 26 LIFE OUTDOORS Catch Some Fun
WELLNESS WATCH Spring Into Action
BOOK NOOK Spring Break
32 PHOTO OP Daffodils in Bloom
Reginald M. Browne, commissioner for the U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission Photograph by Jennifer Janikic
APRIL’S WARM WELCOME
iI THINK I SPEAK for all of us in saying that we’re more than ready to welcome warm sunshine and time spent outdoors. After a brutal winter, we’re especially grateful for the beautiful landscape that surrounds us, providing an ideal setting to enjoy all that spring has to offer.
To get us in the spirit of spring and the summer ahead, we had the pleasure of speaking with Reginald M. Browne, a proud Upper Makefield Township resident who serves on our nation’s national 250th anniversary committee. In addition to explaining his work with the national program, Reginald shares his excitement about celebrating our country’s history here in his own backyard. He also graciously opened his home to show us his meaningful artwork collection and reflects on some of his favorite places in our community.
We have a landmark of another sort right here in our backyard—Bowman’s
tavern. Nestled along the riverbank, this neighborhood gathering place can be counted on for great food, good times, and that unmistakable feeling of belonging to something special. With a new team in place, led by General Manager Bryan Schreck and Executive Chef Deuhana Martinez, the menu has been updated with some newer creations but still features fan favorites— and the atmosphere remains as welcoming as ever.
In honor of Earth Day, we are pleased to spotlight Bucks Beautiful and its incredible work in keeping our county blooming. We’re thrilled to benefit from its contributions to local landscapes, including Sol Feinstone Elementary and the Thompson-Neely House. As you travel around the area this spring, keep an eye out for the brilliant daffodils that are courtesy of Bucks Beautiful.
It wouldn’t be April without ShadFest taking place just across the river in Lambertville. This annual event celebrates another wonderful aspect of nature in our region and gives us a perfect excuse to welcome the season with neighbors, family, and friends.
If you need to ease back into fitness after the long winter months, we also have some tips for starting the season feeling your best.
It’s going to be an exciting few months ahead as we gear up for the Fourth of July, and we’re delighted to bring you stories and events that highlight the history and spirit of our own remarkable area. We hope you enjoy these features along with all the familiar sections you look forward to each month.
Wishing everyone a wonderful April,
Laura Lazar Publisher
P.S. We always welcome story ideas for future issues—feel free to send them our way.
Upper Makefield MAGAZINE
Publisher Laura Lazar
Laura.Lazar@uppermakefieldmag.com
Local Editor
Dari Kotzker
editor@uppermakefieldmag.com
Writers
Lucas Dunn
Liz Pacelli
Colleen Wiechnik
Liz Young
Photographers
Bud Hayman Images
Jennifer Janikic Photography
Expert Contributors
Greg Dwornikowski
Anthony Petsis
WAINSCOT MEDIA
Chairman Carroll V. Dowden
President and CEO
Mark Dowden
SVP, Group Publisher
Thomas Flannery
VP, Content Strategy
Maria Regan
Creative Director
Kijoo Kim
Art Director
Rosemary O’Connell
Executive Editor
Elaine Quilici
Associate Editor
Sophia Carlisle
Advertising Services Director
Jacquelynn Fischer
Operations Director
Catherine Rosario
Production Designer
Chris Ferrante
Print Production Manager
Fern Meshulam
Advertising Production Associate
Griff Dowden
Upper Makefield magazine is published by Wainscot Media. Serving residents of Upper Makefield Township, the magazine is distributed monthly via U.S. mail. Articles and advertisements contained herein do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publishers. Copyright 2026 by Wainscot Media LLC. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.
PHOTOGRAPH BY JUAN
SHEEP SHEARING
On April 25, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., watch as the sheep are shorn of their wool at Thompson-Neely House & Farmstead. This family-friendly event will include a trip to the barn for a hand-shearing presentation as well as period demonstrations and tours of the historic grist mill. Pre-registration is required.
LEARNING IMPORTANT LESSONS
Sol Feinstone Elementary School began a 10-week Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.) program with Officer Lee Crawford for its sixth-grade classes. The initiative uses police officers to provide students with skills to make safe and healthy choices.
AWARD-WINNING PAINTING
The annual Phillips’ Mill Youth Art Exhibition recently showcased student art from area high schools. Council Rock High School North student Alyce Zhang won second place in the painting category for her piece “A Helping Hand.”
EARTH DAY EVENT
Upper Makefield Township will hold Trash Cleanup Day on April 25, from 8 a.m. to noon. Please register so that the township can estimate the appropriate supplies to have on hand.
CAREFUL CROSSINGS
It’s toad migration season. Get involved in amphibian migration road-crossing conservation and learn how you can identify sensitive habitat breeding-ground crossing sites in the area. Migration season runs through June 30. To find out how you can help these animals, follow Upper Makefield Toad Detour on Facebook and @UpperMakefieldToadDetour on Instagram.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF PHILLIPS’ MILL
Family, Wedding, Maternity & Newborn Photography in the Bucks County Area
Jenny is a Bucks County–based photographer known for her evocative golden-hour imagery and refined storytelling. A devoted wife and mother of two spirited boys, she finds inspiration in love at its most natural unguarded laughter, quiet embraces, fleeting sunset creating timeless, intimate imagery that beautifully lived moments for generations.
Barbara Wingate, MD
Board-Certified Adult Psychiatrist
Personalized psychiatric care for adults, grounded in experience, clinical depth, and integrative perspective.
Expertise
• University of Pennsylvania trained Psychiatrist; former faculty University of Pennsylvania.
• Volunteer faculty teaching University of Pennsylvania psychiatric residents.
• Former Medical Director, Renfrew Treatment Center for Eating Disorders
A local Sussex spaniel loves performing in the ring, including at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.
BY STAFF WRITER
INTERVIEW
WITH VINCENT SCANLON
VINCENT SCANLON and his wife have lived in Upper Makefield Township since 2019. Scanlon has owned dogs throughout his entire life and learned about various breeds while working at a boarding kennel during his youth in Rhode Island. Retired from the consumer banking industry since 2020, he is currently the owner of a Sussex spaniel named George who competes in professional dog shows.
Vincent Scanlon (right) and George at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show
How and when did you come to be the owner of your Sussex spaniel, George?
Some nearby friends owned two Sussex spaniels, and we were intrigued by their unique look and gentle temperament. The breed’s personality and temperament make the dogs very easy to fall in love with, and their deep, throaty howl will instantly bring a smile to your face.
Obtaining a Sussex spaniel is no small task since there are generally less than 100 Sussex puppies born a year. George was born in Bonita Springs, Florida, in 2021 and came to Upper Makefield Township in 2022. His official name registered with the American Kennel Club (AKC) is Ziyadah Duke George Augustus. To keep it simple around the house, he is just George.
My favorite thing about George is his loyalty and willingness to please. He always stays close to his owner and is willing to show his affection to all those around him.
Why did you start entering George into dog shows?
After continuous urging from George’s breeder and the owners of George’s father, we decided to enter dog shows. The feeling was that George was considered an excellent specimen of the breed and would do well.
In October 2024, George entered his first show in Virginia and attained the award for Winner Dog for top male in the show. In 2025, he won five separate major shows in Fort Myers, Florida, and garnered the title AKC Champion, which made him eligible for the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. Some additional awards he’s received include Best of Breed at a show in Bloomsburg and Select Dog at the National Dog Show in Oaks.
Why is the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show a big deal?
The Westminster Dog Show is the biggest and oldest dog show in the world. Since entries are limited to 2,600 dogs, just getting an invitation is extremely difficult. Only the top 100th of 1% of AKC-registered dogs get an invitation.
The 2026 Westminster show was a special one because they were commemorating the show’s 150th anniversary. George competed in February. Unfortunately, he did not receive any awards but will continue to compete in six to eight more shows in 2026.
Whether George wins or loses, I am most proud of his resilience and willingness to compete. When he gets into the show ring, George always appears to be the happiest dog in the world, not to mention his love of the competition.
What advice would you give to people considering entering their dogs in professional shows?
While watching a dog show on television seems easy, you must understand the amount of time and energy it takes to compete and win. Training for dog shows includes aerobic conditioning for both owner and dog. There is also a significant amount of practice required to have George learn the movements required in the show ring. The most difficult part is the stacking requirement, which requires George to stand perfectly in the classic hunting dog pose. There is also a significant amount of grooming and coat conditioning required to ensure George is in top shape for every show.
Where are the best places to take a dog for a walk in Upper Makefield Township?
When George is not at his home on Jericho Mountain, he loves spending time at Washington Crossing Historic Park. The beauty of the Delaware River combined with the historic ambience of the park makes it one of George’s favorite places to explore. This also might have to do with the fact that the park is named after a person named George.
Seasonal Sips
A Bowman’s bartender crafts creative spring cocktails featuring fresh ingredients and ideas.
BY LUCAS DUNN
SPRING AND SUMMER are my favorite seasons to craft new cocktails. The transition from the brutal cold to warmer temperatures, a greater presence of sunlight, and blooming nature increases serotonin, which I feel has an enormous effect on my creativity. In addition, we start seeing seasonal fruits, herbs, and vegetables that are essential to creating some really amazing drinks.
I like to take inspiration from classic cocktails and attempt to make them a bit of my own creation. “The Food Bible” acts as my main resource when coming up with cocktail ideas. This book, originally meant for culinary purposes and food pairings, is also incredibly helpful when pairing spirits with other ingredients.
Discovering different methods to manipulate your ingredients is also
a game changer. Gum syrups, shrubs, 1:1 syrups, 2:1 syrups, acid adjustments, and infusions— there are a number of ways you can really elevate your cocktail.
Here are some ways I like to mix things up:
A TWIST ON THE SPRITZ
Aperol spritz has been an extremely popular spring/summer cocktail in recent years, and there are countless ways to elevate it and make it your own. Introducing fresh fruits such as mango, pineapple, or passion fruit can take the drink to a completely different level. This cocktail pairs beautifully with bruschetta, prosciutto, salty cheeses, and any kind of melon. It is the perfect cocktail to pair with a charcuterie on a warm summer day.
Thyme Aggregation
INGREDIENTS
• 1.5 oz. Corralejo Silver tequila
• 1/2 oz. Green Chartreuse
• 1/2 oz. Domaine De Canton ginger liqueur
• 1/2 oz. thyme-honey syrup
• 3/4 oz. acid-adjusted green-apple juice
• 1 sprig of thyme (optional garnish)
SMASHINGLY GOOD
One of my favorite ingredients to use in cocktails is strawberries. A strawberry basil smash—muddled strawberries and basil with vodka as the base spirit, a little simple syrup, and lime—is a refreshing drink to have during the hotter parts of summer. This cocktail can be very versatile as well. Try swapping out the strawberry with watermelon, blackberry, raspberry, kiwi, or mango. There really is an endless number of creations anyone could create with a smash cocktail.
THYME TO BE CREATIVE
DIRECTIONS
Mix all ingredients together and pour into a glass. Garnish with a sprig of thyme. To enhance the flavor, try torching the sprig to expand the aroma of the thyme.
A specialty cocktail we feature at Bowman’s is Thyme Aggregation, which is a big hit with our customers. It isn’t necessarily a riff on a classic cocktail, but the creation uses ingredients known to work well together. With tequila as the base, Green Chartreuse and thyme add an herbal component. The sweetness of the honey and ginger liqueur is balanced with a house-made, acid-adjusted greenapple juice. I like to torch a thyme sprig for garnish, which also adds a little extra aroma for the senses as you drink the cocktail. If you’d like to try making one at home (torching optional), follow the recipe here.
Lucas Dunn has been an employee of Bowman’s since 2013, with bartending as his main focus. He has been the bar manager since 2019.
This article is part of a series that celebrates America’s 250th anniversary this year and our local heritage.
For Love of Country
Reginald M. Browne helps to lead the United States to a milestone celebration.
BY DARI KOTZKER
wWHEN SPEAKING with Upper Makefield Township resident Reginald M. Browne about his love of country and strong sense of patriotism, one is immediately captivated by his dynamic personality and knowledge of America’s rich history. With those patriotic attributes, it’s understandable why he was chosen by federal officials to have the lifelong position of commissioner for the U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission, known as America250.
Born and bred in Philadelphia, the birthplace of the United States, and currently residing in Upper Makefield Township, which is rich in Revolutionary War history, it’s no wonder Browne is immensely passionate about what America stands for. He also feels that the nation’s 250th anniversary is the perfect opportunity for the country to unite in this celebration.
“I’m patriotic, and I believe in all things we believe in as a nation,” he says. “Are we perfect? No. Do we have some really tough history as a nation? We sure do. But we evolve. It’s the grit of who we are that keeps me going, and I get to emulate that through the work we’re doing. Even with political
differences, if just for a moment we can come together and celebrate who we are as a nation, I think the commission has achieved a great thing, and that’s why I’m involved.”
A STRONG CHOICE
Browne’s leadership skills in the financial sector were one of the reasons he was recognized as a prime candidate to help contribute to America250’s success. He majored in finance at LaSalle University and always had an interest in trading securities. With decades of experience in the financial industry, he is a world-renowned highprofile leader in the capital markets. As a partner in the firm GTS Securities, he helps asset managers create and launch investment products for institutional retail clients, and those products are
usually exchange-traded funds. His company is a member of the New York Stock Exchange and has offices in New York and Florida.
“It’s fascinating from the perspective of helping individual investors access the stock market and express investment views and growing the industry,” he says. “I’ve been part of the growth of the industry for the past 30 years. I was very early in that, and it’s been an interesting ride that has never ceased to be amazing.”
In addition to his influential role in the financial world, Browne has been extremely active on a variety of boards, including the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts in Philadelphia; the McCarter Theatre in Princeton, New Jersey; and LaSalle University in Philadelphia.
With both private and public experience, he was approached to be a commissioner for America250 by Democratic New Jersey congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman. He was officially nominated
Top right: America250 Chairman Rosie Rios (left center), Commissioner Reginald M. Browne (center), and America250 Commissioner Lynne Young (right center) join soldiers in front of the America250 float at the 2026 Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, California.
Bottom left: Reginald M. Browne attends a wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery with his father, Reggie Browne, and his wife, Dr. Aliya Browne.
PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF REGINALD M. BROWNE
by the Democratic leader of the U.S. House of Representatives, congressman Hakeem Jeffries, in 2023. Browne says it’s an honor to serve his country in this manner and believes he was given this lifetime appointment because he is civic-minded and communityoriented.
“A lot of my professional and personal activities suggested I had an interest in community, leadership skills, and the ability to talk to a range of people and get things done,” he says. “My role in the commission is helping to plan and approve activities that the commission puts on coast to coast, in addition to U.S. territories, to celebrate the United States. I’ve been very helpful in raising money, telling the story, and being a participant in activities representing the commission.”
TIME TO CELEBRATE
With such a huge milestone nearing, many organizations are involved in programming at every level of government: Bucks250 is focused on Bucks County, serving
those who live in Upper Makefield Township and surrounding areas; America250PA covers the state; and America250 oversees federal initiatives. The America250 legislation was signed into law during the Obama administration and has remained active through four administrations. The commission is bipartisan with eight Democrats and eight Republicans from both private and public sectors.
All three organizations come together once a year in Washington, D.C., to share what they are working on and discuss ideas. “Everyone has the commitment that we want to do right by the United States and the American people,” Browne says. “There is no bickering, no challenges on the view, and we’re all working toward getting programming out the door that responds to every segment of our nation. That’s been a lot of fun.” Since taking this position— and especially from January to July of this year—Browne has been living the jet-set lifestyle, representing America250 at
Above: Reginald M. Browne stands in front of one of his favorite art pieces, ‘Listen with Your Eyes II,’ by Moe Brooker, 2009.
PHOTOGRAPH BY JENNIFER JANIKIC PHOTOGRAPHY
Bottom right: Reginald M. Browne visits the floor of the New York Stock Exchange.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF REGINALD M. BROWNE
events nationwide. In one 24-hour period, he attended the ball drop in Times Square to ring in 2026 with fireworks, and then six hours later was in Pasadena, California, at the Tournament of Roses Parade to see the three eagles on the America250 float. Getting an up-close view of so many unique experiences has been extraordinary.
“One of the initiatives I’m most passionate about is America Waves, where we send tens of thousands of flags for various events nationwide,” he says. “Seeing that symbol of what the United States stands for is one project I’ve had the most fun with. Another one is America’s Field Trip, where kids across the country get to participate in an experience that would be nearly impossible otherwise, like sleeping over in government buildings and helping them understand the power of what we stand for as a nation.”
An exciting America250 happening closer to home is the installation of a time capsule at Independence National Historical Park in Philadelphia. The capsule contains items from all 50 states, territories, and key historical artifacts. It will be buried on July 4 and unearthed in 2276.
THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE HOME
Besides love of country, Browne also has a love for his local community. He moved across the river from Pennington, New Jersey, to Upper Makefield Township in 2010 with his wife and children. He says Upper Makefield Township is the definition of what a great place to live is because of its people, places, safe environment, and natural beauty. “Upper Makefield is really a tight-knit community,” he says. “Everybody knows everybody, and it’s very neighborly. People really care about one another. I feel that even more at this particular moment as we come together to celebrate America’s 250.”
Some of Browne’s favorite aspects of living here are driving up and down River Road, walking along the waterfront at Washington Crossing Historic Park, and grabbing a cup of coffee at Dunkin’. However, he has
one treasured tradition. “I love the Washington Crossing Bridge,” he says. “When I drive across it, I own it. I particularly love crossing the bridge on a spring day at 5 a.m. with mist coming up. This is just a magical area.”
Within the walls of his home in Washington Crossing is an extensive art collection. Browne started buying and collecting pieces in 2008 as a search for meaning, an exploration of ideas, and to have a broader definition of what the art brings forward to its viewers. Most of his collection consists of abstract figures, and all of the works are by American artists.
“Artists think differently,” he says. “It’s fun to be around them because of how they think about the world. They see and describe it in an honest way. To be a custodian of their work has been pretty powerful, and it has helped me become a better person. It has also influenced my children to be intellectually curious.”
250 AND BEYOND
Browne and his fellow commissioners will be visiting numerous locations and taking part in an array of celebratory activities throughout the country from July 2 to July 4. On July 3, Congress will meet at Independence Hall in Philadelphia, and Browne will be there, too. Though he’s not quite sure where he will represent America250
on the nation’s anniversary, he hopes to be able to start at Gloria Molina Grand Park’s Summer Block Party in Los Angeles and then fly to Washington, D.C., for the celebration on the National Mall.
As America250 festivities continue throughout 2026, Browne hopes his expertise and ideas will have an impact on future generations. He says that at many events, he has asked people if they are patriotic, and many young people didn’t have an answer. He is hopeful that the commission’s hard work will help people to develop an answer to what it means to be patriotic and why they love their country.
“In 50 years, when the country celebrates its 300th anniversary and a 6-year-old kid today is 56 in 2076, I hope that person will remember an experience from this time period and carry it forward,” Browne says. “That really is the work I’m doing, to capture some kid’s imagination today, and maybe this moment will shape the direction of their love of country in a positive way.”
Dari Kotzker resides in Bucks County with her husband and four kids. She has worked as a reporter in television news and print media since 2001.
PHOTOGRAPH BY JENNIFER JANIKIC PHOTOGRAPHY
A LOCAL Vibe
Bowman’s continues its tradition of being a neighborhood gathering place with good times, delicious food, and lively entertainment.
BY DARI KOTZKER
wWALK INTO BOWMAN’S and you might expect to hear the theme song from “Cheers” playing—“Sometimes you wanna go where everybody knows your name, and they’re always glad you came.” That’s because this local restaurant and bar is Bucks County’s version of that type of neighborhood hub where people gather and good times unfold.
The building that houses Bowman’s has been a landmark in Upper Makefield Township for more than three decades, with generations of people enjoying food and drinks along River Road. James Seward was
working as a chef at the restaurant when he decided to buy the longstanding community staple in 2013. With many patrons having a strong connection to Bowman’s, the overall goal is to keep its traditional roots but always look for ways to elevate it to the next level.
A MASTER OF HOSPITALITY
In July 2025, Seward hired General Manager Bryan Schreck and Executive Chef Deuhana (Dee) Martinez to run the restaurant and kitchen, respectively. He asked Schreck to lead this longtime local
hot spot because of Schreck’s love of people, collaboration, and experience in the hospitality industry.
“What gives me life is people,” Schreck says. “I’m a people guy. I find energy and value in community and collaboration. When Seward hired me, he basically gave me the keys to the castle and said, ‘Run it like you own it.’”
Schreck has worked in restaurants for more than 20 years and is currently a board member of the Lambertville (New Jersey) Chamber of Commerce. Growing up in New Hope, he started scooping ice
cream at a local shop as a teenager. He graduated from the University of Central Florida with a degree in event management and has worked on events ranging from Super Bowl to major music festivals.
Schreck co-owned Metá Café in Lambertville, New Jersey, for years. When he decided to sell it, Seward offered him the general manager position at Bowman’s. The two had known each other from the local restaurant scene.
Even before working at Bowman’s, Schreck was a fan. “Bowman’s is very community heavy, so it was a perfect fit to go from a community spot that I owned and segway to the same people under a different roof,” he says. “Even when I owned
my café, I would always send people here. I like the dark, ‘tavern-y’ vibe and welcoming atmosphere.”
CALLING ALL FOODIES
Bowman’s is known for its staples, which include meatloaf, burgers, cheesesteaks, and whipped ricotta appetizers. When Schreck and Martinez came onboard, they developed a new menu within the
first week. They decided to keep the same homemade items but interject them with new energy. They view these core dishes as a jumping off point to retain the essence of the menu but include some fresh ideas. Their aim is to change the menu quarterly, which usually aligns with the seasons.
“Our chef brings a lot of creativity in the best way,” Schreck says. “She likes cooking Americana food, which is fun, but she also enjoys putting some cool spins on some of the classics, like tweaking the gravy, for example. I appreciate the fact that she understands the science and world of cooking. At the same time, I like the Warhol aspect of creating new ideas.”
With spring arriving, many of the entrees currently offered are vibrant with colorful ingredients. Using local ingredients and food as much as possible is extremely important to Schreck. Since this area is lush with farms, the restaurant gets its produce within a five-mile radius, and it uses local foragers for mushrooms. He says knowing where your food is coming from is important to people, especially in this area.
Right: Friends Bill Nerko, manager of Landmark Developers; Stan Stierle, president of Stierle Construction Inc.; and Shawn Lawson, owner of Nina’s Waffles and Ice Cream, enjoy lunch together at Bowman’s.
GOOD TIMES FOR ALL
At Bowman’s, what really stands out is not just the food and drinks but those who serve it. In a very transient industry, most of Bowman’s staff has been around for more than 10 years. Schreck says the staff is incredibly engaging, caring, and a dream crew.
Fausto Huit (known as René) started in 2013 as a busser and is now a top server and bartender. “Everybody here works as a team,” he says. “We are more than co-workers; we are family. I have fun doing my job, and everybody is happy here.”
Another huge draw for patrons is Bowman’s nightly live music. Dating
back to the 1990s, the establishment has always been a place for piano cabaret. Local legend Bob Egan has been entertaining customers as part of the music program for decades, and now musician Sam Ryan is booking weeknight entertainment.
“Live music entices a number of people sight unseen,” Schreck says. “I think we’re lucky because we’re in an area that is lush with talent in the arts.”
A LONG-STANDING LEGACY
Bowman’s has a strong legacy of being a local gathering spot with great food and ambience. Schreck says it has three different energies
across its dining room, lounge, and neighborhood bar.
“It’s a very approachable type of establishment with all walks of life,” Schreck says. “I like the fact that I can have CEOs of companies hanging out, a 90-year-old grandmother having her birthday over here, a date going on over there, kids coming in from a soccer game, or a food influencer at a table in the dining room.”
Longtime customer Shawn Lawson agrees. “It’s consistent here,” he says. “It’s casual, the food is always great, it brings in all different kinds of people, and it’s like the show “Cheers” where everyone knows your name.”
OPPOSITE PAGE:
Top: Bowman’s server Beth Turnbull, bar manager Lucas Dunn, Bryan Schreck, and bartender/server
Fausto Huit (René)
Bottom: Bob Egan performs at Bowman’s every Friday night.
THIS PAGE:
Top left: Risotto Milanese Bottom left: Mediterranean Octopus
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF BOWMAN’S
The fact that Bowman’s is a community-driven business is an important element to Schreck. He says any time they can work with local schools or organizations, they are always quick to say yes to getting involved. He also says a lot of networking happens at the establishment. It’s a place for business leaders who are active in the area to connect as well to help the community.
As Schreck approaches the end of his first year of working at Bowman’s, he has received a lot of positive feedback from customers on the food and staff. He says it always warms his soul when people compliment their experience at the venue.
As for Bowman’s future, Schreck is confident it will always remain a popular destination because of its proximity to so many Bucks
County and Hunterdon County towns. “We have synchronicity between James, Dee, and me, so there is an excitement to continue to build something,” Schreck says. “We’re going to continue to take
something great and buff it, polish it, and I’m determined not to stay stagnant. Looking ahead, nothing is off the table. If there’s an interesting idea, we’re going for it. The sky’s the limit.”
Dari Kotzker resides in Bucks County with her husband and four kids. She has worked as a reporter in television news and print media since 2001.
One Seed at a Time
Executive Director Denise Sezack, and Bucks Beautiful
Communications Director Laurie To
PHOTOGRAPH BY
a
Back Row: Upper Makefield
Township Supervisor Elizabeth Thompson and Friends of Washington Crossing Historic Park Historical Horticulturist
Anna Davis. Front Row: Bucks Beautiful Board President
Bryce Sanders, Bucks Beautiful
JANIKIC PHOTOGRAPHY
Bucks Beautiful is budding with ideas to make the county attractive for years to come.
BY DARI KOTZKER
a
ACTRESS AND AVID
gardener
Audrey Hepburn once said, “to plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow.” Those words couldn’t ring truer for Bucks Beautiful, which works to beautify the county and enhance the health of our environment, one seed at a time. As spring arrives, Bucks County will be filled with bursts of color from the emergence of
flowers and greenery on many public properties. There has always been natural beauty in this area, and Bucks Beautiful has contributed to taking it to the next level.
In the late 1980s, Bucks County couple Robert and Joyce Byers, founders of the figurine company Byers’ Choice, traveled through Europe and saw many public spaces with gorgeous gardens. They were inspired to beautify small towns back at home with similar public gardens. The Byers were joined by John and Carol McCaughan, who shared the same vision. Together, the two couples created Bucks Beautiful, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit community organization, in 1991.
Bucks Beautiful Executive Director Denise Sezack started as a volunteer when the group was founded. “We call it a seed of an idea, because it’s something Bob Byers had in his head and then made happen,” she says. “It started as a beautification mission,
but we have now expanded to work with other grassroots nonprofits to develop sustainable and attractive landscapes throughout the county.”
AN IDEA BLOSSOMS
Since its founding, Bucks Beautiful has impacted the county by planting flowers, gardens, shrubbery, and trees around towns, schools, parks, historic sites, and roadways. One of its standout initiatives is to help enhance local landscapes through a biannual grant program where it provides a 50-50 cash grant match up to $5,000 a year. All applications are reviewed by a committee, and the organization tries to accept as many requests as long as they meet the criteria.
“The funds can be used toward any plant materials, annuals, perennials, bulbs, shrubs, trees, or gardening materials like mulch and soil, and we highly recommend the use of native plant materials,” Sezack
Top left: New trees are planted around town as part of the RePlant Bucks initiative.
Top right: Many of the daffodils seen around town are part of the Bulbs for Bucks project.
PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF BUCKS BEAUTIFUL
Left: A Bucks Beautiful grant helped rebuild the Hibbs House Kitchen Garden in Washington Crossing Historic Park.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF FRIENDS OF WASHINGTON CROSSING HISTORIC PARK
says. “We provide these grants because it’s an opportunity for us to work with townships and other nonprofits to beautify and plant sustainable plantings in Bucks County.”
Friends of Washington Crossing Historic Park has been a recipient of the grants since 2021, starting with its Hibbs House Kitchen Garden project. The most recent grant the group received was directly invested in the rehabilitation of the historic Thompson-Neely House Kitchen Garden and Orchard, after the grounds were disturbed due to much-needed building renovations.
“With Bucks Beautiful’s support, we were able to rebuild soil health, reestablish historically accurate plantings, and redesign pathways and orchard elements that invite visitors back into the space,” says Anna Davis, Friends of Washington Crossing Historic Park’s historical horticulturist. “Thanks to Bucks Beautiful, this garden is once again a place of learning, beauty, and connection.”
CREATING A SEA OF YELLOW
When driving through Bucks County during the spring months,
one may see rows of bright-yellow daffodils along local highways and in community spaces. The Bulbs for Bucks program was started in 2010 by Chuck Gale, former Bucks Beautiful president, with 40,000 bulbs planted along the Route 611 bypass near Doylestown. Today, the program has grown to include over a million plants throughout the county.
“The planting of the daffodils was brilliant because they are self-propagating, so you get more and more daffodils over time, and it adds to the beauty of the county,” says Bryce Sanders, current Bucks Beautiful president. “It is a feeling of accomplishment that we have put 1.6 million daffodils in the ground over the years, and I have an appreciation for all the people who made this happen.”
Upper Makefield Township has applied for and received grants from Bucks Beautiful to plant daffodils at Lookout and Brownsburg parks and Washington Crossing National Cemetery. April is the perfect time for residents to start enjoying this plethora of yellow color throughout the community.
Education is another important
aspect of Bucks Beautiful’s mission. The organization hosts a variety of lectures for the general public and offers school programs. This past October, a grant was awarded to Sol Feinstone Elementary School to be a part of the Bulbs for Bucks program, with third graders planting 5,000 bulbs. Upper Makefield Township Supervisor and PTO Treasurer Elizabeth Thompson, who has a third-grade daughter, helped lead the project.
“The children were able to have a hands-on learning opportunity,” she says. “They got to identify the parts of the bulb and learn the science behind it and the long-term benefits. The kids were very inquisitive and excited
Anna Davis, Friends of Washington Crossing Historic Park’s historical horticulturist, discusses how the Bucks Beautiful grant is helping the Thompson-Neely House Kitchen Garden and Orchard.
PHOTOGRAPH BY JENNIFER JANIKIC PHOTOGRAPHY
Upper Makefield Township Supervisor Elizabeth Thompson works with Sol Feinstone Elementary School third graders to plant daffodils as part of Bucks Beautiful’s Bulbs for Bucks program.
PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF BUCKS BEAUTIFUL
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF FRIENDS OF WASHINGTON CROSSING HISTORIC PARK
to dig in the dirt. Now that it’s spring, they will have the rewarding experience to see the fruits of their labor.”
The daffodil plantings have had a ripple effect throughout the towns and the county. “Around March, April, May, every square foot of Bucks County looks great when you drive through; it just has incredible beauty,” Sanders says. “It’s great for the real-estate industry— everybody wants to live in an area that looks as good as this. Therefore, it’s good for local businesses and homeowners who see this and then want to improve their properties, which increases property value, which is then good for garden centers and landscaping companies.”
BEYOND THE FLOWERS
With Earth Day and Arbor Day on the calendar in April, this is an ideal time to reflect on the importance of preserving the environment, promoting sustainability, and taking action
to protect the planet. Bucks Beautiful started its RePlant Bucks initiative in 2018, with the goal of planting 10,0000 new trees throughout Bucks County after losing many to disease and storms. To date, 2,528 trees have been installed in 47 locations.
“Trees are so important to our community,” Sezack says. “We need them for clean air, to provide shelter for our animals, and for their natural beauty. We’re planting so many seedlings that may not benefit us today or tomorrow, but they will for generations to come. Somebody has to do that, and we’ve taken it upon ourselves to do this to better the environment.”
Thompson says that Upper Makefield Township is dialed in on sustainability. “We’re really focused on keeping Upper Makefield bucolic,” she says. “The township gives out tree grants and provides reimbursements for people who plant native trees to help keep Upper Makefield Township beautiful.”
GROWING INTO THE FUTURE
Bucks Beautiful raises money to pay for its programs and grants with two major fundraisers. It holds a Spring Fling Gala every April and a Kitchen & Garden Tour in June. Donations also help fund the organization.
For further support, Sanders created a membership program, which a few hundred people have already joined. Members pay a fee, which helps the organization; in return, they receive special benefits.
“We hope members take advantage of their free Kitchen & Garden Tour tickets because you meet remarkably nice people, get to see the gardens before the crowds, and get inspiration for your own properties,” he says. “We also hold a complimentary member-recognition event that brings people together who are
like-minded and share a lot of the same interests.”
Looking toward the future, Sezack sees the organization continuing to grow. “I’m very proud of what we’ve done—everything from little container gardens all the way up to planting a thousand trees,” she says. “It gives you a sense of pride and accomplishment when you had an area overrun with weeds and invasives, you cleaned it out, and now there’s new growth and hope. We’re getting stronger as an organization. We continue to work hard to enhance the landscape not only for us but for the future of Bucks County.”
Dari Kotzker resides in Bucks County with her husband and four kids. She has worked as a reporter in television news and print media since 2001.
Upper Makefield Township Supervisor Elizabeth Thompson, Bucks Beautiful Board President Bryce Sanders, and Bucks Beautiful Executive Director Denise Sezack
PHOTOGRAPH BY JENNIFER JANIKIC PHOTOGRAPHY
Catch Some Fun
It’s time for ShadFest, our area’s annual celebration of river life.
BY LIZ PACELLI
FOR GENERATIONS, the annual shad run has marked the true beginning of spring in our river towns. When ShadFest began in 1981, it was created to honor the Delaware River and the return migration of the American shad. Throughout the years, the event has grown into a vibrant celebration of art, food, music, and community. But at its core, it is still about the river. It is about recognizing that long before Lambertville, New Jersey, became a destination, it was a fishing town. Each spring, the river still tells the same story.
THE CYCLE OF LIFE
The American shad is an anadromous fish—a species that hatches in freshwater, migrates to the ocean to mature, then returns to freshwater. These fish live most of their life in the Atlantic Ocean before making the journey back up freshwater rivers, including the Delaware River, to spawn. That annual migration once sustained entire communities along the water. Native people depended on it. Later, commercial fisheries thrived because of it.
However, like many waterways in the Northeast, the Delaware River faced serious environmental challenges in the mid-20th century. Pollution and habitat loss led to a steep decline in shad populations. The river’s recovery did not happen overnight. It took regulation, restoration, and a shared
commitment to protect this resource. The gradual return of the shad is a true testament to what sustained stewardship can accomplish.
A TIMELESS TRADITION
Since 1888, Lambertville’s Lewis Fishery has relied on seining, a traditional fishing method that uses large, vertical nets. Each April, crews row out into the river, set their nets, and pull them back to shore by hand. It is physical, patient work that depends on reading the river and respecting its rhythms. Watching the operation feels like stepping back into another era.
Throughout ShadFest, spectators can get a firsthand look at this process. In many ways, the festival follows the same rhythm as the migration it honors. Each spring, as the shad return to the Delaware River, our community gathers to celebrate renewal and connection. The art, music, and food bring life to the streets of Lambertville, but the river remains the heart of it all. ShadFest is a reminder that this annual migration still matters, and that the health of the Delaware River and the traditions it supports are worth celebrating and protecting.
This year’s ShadFest takes place in Lambertville on April 25 and April 26, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Liz Pacelli is president of Explore Lambertville (the Greater Lambertville Chamber of Commerce). She is passionate about building vibrant communities and helping small businesses grow and thrive.
Spring Into ACTION
Some simple, five-minute movements can help boost your overall health.
BY COLLEEN WIECHNIK
IF
YOU’RE LIKE MANY of the clients I work with, you’ve probably said this at least once this week: “I know I need to prioritize my health, but I just don’t have time.” And with that belief, the challenges pile up:
• Skipping workouts because meetings run long
• Grabbing whatever is convenient instead of nourishing your body
• Feeling guilty about “not doing enough” for yourself
• Constant exhaustion that makes everything feel harder
Sound familiar? When work demands and family needs are pulling you in every direction, it’s easy to believe that taking care of yourself is unrealistic— or even selfish.
But here’s the truth: You don’t find time for your health; you create it. And creating it starts with shifting one simple question. Instead of asking, “When will I have time?” try asking yourself, “What would happen if I made time?” Then implement some small, five-minute actions to create time for your health.
BUILD HEALTHY HABITS
Even small movements throughout your day—like taking a quick walk, stretching at your desk, or simply standing up—can have a huge impact on your energy, mood, and stress levels. This is known as Non-Activity Thermogenesis (NEAT). While it
may sound simple, it works wonders. The beauty of NEAT is that it’s easy to incorporate into your busy schedule without extra time or effort. Here’s how it helps:
• Boosts energy: Short bursts of movement increase circulation, helping you feel more awake, alert, and ready to tackle big decisions.
• Enhances mental clarity: Quick breaks help clear brain fog, keeping you sharp and focused for better decisionmaking.
• Reduces stress: Moving or stretching for just a few minutes lowers cortisol levels, helping you to stay calm and focused even when things get hectic.
• Improves physical health: Reducing stiffness, improving mobility, and stabilizing your blood sugar all contribute to better overall health and sustained energy.
With all these benefits, you’ll likely find it easier to keep up with your five-
minute actions, building a healthier lifestyle one small step at a time.
HOW TO START TODAY
You don’t need to overhaul your entire routine to feel the benefits. Here are a few simple, five-minute actions you can incorporate immediately:
• Take a 5-minute walk: Step outside during lunch or after a long meeting. It helps clear your mind and resets your energy.
• Stretch during phone calls or meetings: Combat stiffness and maintain mental clarity by taking quick breaks to move your body.
• Practice deep breathing or mindful movement: Calming your nervous system helps reduce stress and keeps you focused and grounded during high-pressure moments.
Start small and you’ll quickly notice how even five minutes of movement can help boost your energy and improve your focus. Whether it’s a quick walk, stretches, or deep breathing, taking just a few minutes to move or reset can have a big impact.
Colleen Wiechnik is a certified personal trainer and the owner of Spire Fitness in Yardley. She is dedicated to helping individuals— both young and old—discover the benefits of a healthy and active life.
FEBRUARY HOME SALES
Royale Homes
The Details Matter
It’s important to understand the legal side of buying and selling a home.
BY J. BRAUN TAYLOR
BUYING OR SELLING a home is often one of the most significant financial decisions a person will make—and one where the details matter. While real-estate transactions may appear straightforward, they involve a range of legal, financial, and logistical considerations that can quickly become complex.
LEGAL IMPLICATIONS
From the initial agreement of sale through closing, each step of the process carries important legal implications. Contracts must be carefully drafted and reviewed; required disclosures must be properly
handled; and issues such as title defects, liens, and inspection concerns can arise unexpectedly.
Real-estate professionals play an important role in marketing properties, negotiating terms, and guiding buyers and sellers through the transaction process. At the same time, real-estate transactions are legal in nature, and certain aspects— such as contract interpretation, title review, and resolving legal issues—are often best addressed with legal counsel.
THE BENEFITS OF REVIEW
Unlike many other states, in Pennsylvania, buyers and sellers are not required to engage an attorney, and many proceed without one. However, without legal review, important terms in an agreement of sale may go unaddressed, and potential risks may not be fully understood until later in the process. Legal counsel helps to ensure agreements are clear and enforceable, to identify issues early, and to provide guidance when unexpected challenges arise.
Attorneys also play a critical role in examining title, addressing liens
or encumbrances, reviewing financing documents, and ensuring that all aspects of the transaction comply with applicable laws. In more complex situations—such as “For Sale by Owner” transactions or properties held in estates—legal guidance can be particularly valuable.
TRUSTED COUNSEL
With decades of experience advising buyers and sellers, the real-estate law team at Hamburg, Rubin, Mullin, Maxwell & Lupin assists clients in navigating these considerations. From reviewing agreements of sale to resolving title issues and coordinating closings, experienced counsel helps to protect clients’ interests and to keep transactions on track.
Real-estate transactions involve important legal considerations, and small details can have lasting consequences. Understanding the legal side of the process can help ensure a smoother path from contract to closing.
J. Braun Taylor is a senior associate in the Real Estate Department at the law firm Hamburg, Rubin, Mullin, Maxwell & Lupin. He focuses on transactional work, municipal law, association law, and real-estate finance. As a Pennsylvania-licensed Realtor, he brings extensive experience in purchasing, financing, and selling residential and commercial properties, allowing him to provide practical, well-rounded counsel on all real-estate matters.
Spring Break
If you’re looking for an escape, there’s no better way to relax than with a good book.
BY LIZ YOUNG
KIDS
MISS RUMPHIUS
By Barbara Cooney
This classic introduction to science and the natural world celebrates the beauty of the outdoors. Its timeless, impactful illustrations are treasures in their own right, capturing the wonders we encounter in our everyday walks and travels.
FAMILIES
WILD PHILLY
By Mike Weilbacher
Visit Philadelphia and be astonished by the history, culture, natural beauty, and wildlife that infuse the city. From birds, trees, and flowers to public parks and hiking trails, your children will not be disappointed in what they uncover.
50 HIKES WITH KIDS
By Wendy Gorton
This comprehensive guide to kid-friendly hiking in New York, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey appreciates our region’s best exploration. All hikes listed are all less than five miles long with manageable elevation. It is a wonderful gift for locals and visitors.
ADULTS
DREAM STATE
By Eric Puchner
This novel explores the themes of adventure, introspection, how we fit into the natural world, what our purpose is, what challenges lie before us, and how to drive our reclamation of our place in the world, which our parents have given us as an inheritance.
FAMILY OF SPIES
By Christine Kuehn
Focused on the events of World War II, this is the saga of an industrious, large, and wealthy family seeking treasure and position in exchange for loyalty to the Nazi mission. Pieced together at a fast pace, it is a spy story to remember.
CRUX
By Gabriel Tallent
When two high schoolers struggle with becoming adults, their decisions have far greater risks than they realize. This is a great book for readers looking for adventure, action, and vicarious risk-taking.
THE ART OF GATHERING
By Priya Parker
Learn how to engage with others and emerge with memorable experiences, as this book prepares you for a life of effective and transformational interactions.
THE SEVEN DAUGHTERS OF DUPREE
By Nikesha Elise Williams
This multigenerational family saga slowly uncovers stories of mystery, secrecy, and familial loss. Love and family bonds drive the action and uncover deep explanations for generational choices.
Liz Young is the owner of Commonplace Reader, located on Main Street in Yardley. The shop hosts monthly adult book clubs and kids’ activities on Saturdays. For additional information, visit www.commonplace-reader.com.
DAFFODILS IN BLOOM
BY STAFF WRITER
PHOTOGRAPHER JOSH Friedman took this colorful photo at the historic Cuttalossa Mill in Solebury on an April morning in 2025. “I liked the contrast between the old mill and the fresh daffodils,” he says. “I chose an angle in which the flowers were positioned directly in front of the wheel.”
For more of Friedman’s work that captures the beauty of Bucks County, visit www.joshfriedmanphotography.net, and check out his Etsy shop, JoshFriedmanPhoto.
Have a fabulous Upper Makefield photo? Email it to editor@ uppermakefieldmag.com and it could be featured in an upcoming issue!
