Veterinarian Brad Bovee, VMD, channeled a rural upbringing into a career treating pets and enjoying the people who love them.
16 A Local Home Run
The Upper Makefield Youth Baseball and Softball League has knocked it out of the park for almost 50 years.
20 Legacy of Love
Heather Roberts and her family sustain one of the area’s last generational farms by caring for four-legged friends at Sit. Stay.
IN EVERY ISSUE
4 PUBLISHER’S NOTE Joy and New Beginnings
6 LOCAL PULSE Bite-Sized Updates
8 HOME FRONT
The Benefits of Outdoor Living
10 Q&A
Robert G. Castor
24 LOCAL ARTS Renewal Through Art
26 LOCAL TASTES Tips for Great Grilling
28 HOME FRONT
Simple Steps for a Tidy Home
30 BOOK NOOK Celebration and Honor
32 PHOTO OP Backyard Visitor COVER
Photograph by Jennifer Janikic Photography, LLC 8
Brad Bovee, VMD, owner of Washington Crossing Animal Hospital
IJOY AND NEW BEGINNINGS
IT’S
HARD TO BELIEVE
this is the sixth issue of Upper Makefield magazine! Six months ago, we had a vision for the magazine—and it’s been incredible to see it come to life. I’m grateful to this amazing community for the support you’ve shared. Thank you for letting us tell your stories and being such a big part of this journey.
Each month, our goal is to shine a light on the people, places and happenings—both well-known and quietly wonderful—that make Upper Makefield feel like home.
This issue is all about joy and new beginnings. May is National Pet Month, and we’re celebrating those who help care for the furry friends we love so much. One is Washington Crossing Animal Hospital, which has been part
of our town for years. Dr. Bovee has taken care of thousands of pets in the community—including my own Miss Maisie B.—and his kindness, passion for animals and connection to the community are truly special.
We’re also excited to feature Heather Roberts, who followed her heart and created Sit. Stay., a local kennel and pet day care. But Heather’s impact goes far beyond Sit. Stay. She started Keystone Community Coalition, whose programs have touched the lives of so many in the area.
Of course, nothing says spring like the return of Upper Makefield Youth Baseball and Softball League! This incredible organization brings our community together through kids, families and the joy of the game. We’re sharing the story of the league through the voices of some of the dedicated volunteer directors who make it all happen.
And as we open our windows and get outside again, this issue includes ideas for refreshing your space—both outdoors and in. Glenn Porto has tips for creating your dream outdoor hangout spot, and Allie Licata shares advice for clearing out winter clutter.
We’ve also got a peek at a wonderful exhibit at ArtWRKD and a roundup of perfect spring reads to enjoy on the porch (or wherever you like to escape for a quiet moment).
I hope this issue brings you smiles and perhaps inspires you to stop and smell the roses…or go ahead and plant that rose bush if you don’t have one!
Until next issue,
Laura Lazar Publisher
P.S. I love hearing from you—if you have a story idea or just want to share a thought, please reach out.
Upper Makefield MAGAZINE
Publisher Laura Lazar
Local Editor
Dari Kotzker
Writers Joseph A. Garvey
Dari Kotzker
Allie Licata
Glenn Porto
Ashara Shapiro
Liz Young
Photographer Jennifer Janikic Photography, LLC
Expert Contributors
Greg Dwornikowski
Anthony Petsis
Dominique Williams
WAINSCOT MEDIA
Chairman
Carroll V. Dowden
President and CEO
Mark Dowden
VP, Group Publisher, Regional
Thomas Flannery
VP, Content Strategy
Maria Regan
Creative Director
Kijoo Kim
Art Director Rosemary O’Connell
Executive Editor
Richard Laliberte
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 2025 by Wainscot Media LLC. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.
REMEMBERING ED McALLISTER
On March 12, an Upper Makefield road was named Ed McAllister Way in honor of former Upper Makefield Business Association (UMBA) member Ed McAllister, who passed away several years ago. McAllister’s wife, Karen, is currently a UMBA member. Upper Makefield Township Chief Mark Schmidt, Public Works Superintendent Matt Gorman and Washington Crossing Post Office Manager James Dwyer attended, along with members of the McAllister Family.
FUNDRAISER FOR HOCKEY SCHOLARSHIPS
The Greg McDonald Foundation held a 1980s-themed community fundraiser on March 22 at the Newtown American Legion Hall. Upper Makefield Township resident Patti Fox-McDonald (above, in wig) created the foundation in honor of her late husband, Greg McDonald, who was a youth hockey coach in his spare time. The foundation raised $12,500 to provide hockey scholarships and equipment to players with the greatest need from five area club teams.
Mary Kate Huff, UMBA President Harry Barfoot, and AWP Executive Director Jennifer Locker
SUPPORT FOR A WOMAN’S PLACE
At the Upper Makefield Business Association (UMBA) March meeting, A Woman’s Place (AWP) was recognized with a check for $1,000. AWP Executive Director Jen Locker accepted the donation on behalf of her organization.
FREE CONCERT AT THE CROSSING
The Friends of Washington Crossing Park (Pennsylvania) and the historic Newtown Theatre are presenting a free outdoor jazz concert on May 24, from 6 to 8 p.m. The concert will be held on the banks of the Delaware River near the historic park’s visitor center. Attendees are welcome to bring a picnic dinner, chairs and blankets. Alcohol is not permitted. Four-legged friends are welcome but must be leashed and under control at all times. Rain date is May 26, at the same time.
MARKING
MEMORIAL DAY
Washington Crossing Historic Park will hold its annual Memorial Day ceremony on May 25 at 1 p.m. at the gravesite of Continental soldiers located near the Thompson-Neely House. The observation will include a colonial color guard, fife and drum music, Revolutionary War reenactors, veterans and other honored guests. After the dedication, American flags will be placed on the graves.
From left: Upper Makefield Township Chief Mark Schmidt, Upper Makefield Township Sgt.
The Benefits of Outdoor Living
Investing in landscaping and exterior spaces can improve well-being and add value to your home.
BY GLENN PORTO
OVER THE YEARS, the trend of enhancing and creating outdoor living spaces has grown significantly, for good reason. Whether it’s adding a beautiful patio, lush landscaping or a complete outdoor kitchen, investing in your home’s exterior can bring a multitude of benefits. One of the most compelling reasons to invest in outdoor living is its positive impact on mental health. Spending time outdoors has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood and boost overall well-being.
Nature can promote getting into relaxation mode and help alleviate anxiety. In fact, studies have shown that spending time in green spaces increases levels of serotonin, a brain chemical that contributes to feelings of well-being and happiness.
Having a dedicated outdoor space
where you can relax—whether it’s reading in a lounge chair or enjoying a meal with friends or family al fresco— helps create a sanctuary from the stresses of everyday life.
Even better, outdoor living spaces, when well executed, can significantly increase the value of your home. Potential buyers often view outdoor spaces as an extension of the home, adding both functional and aesthetic appeal. Features such as patios, outdoor kitchens, fire features and beautiful landscaping can make your property stand out in a competitive housing market.
MULTIPLE REWARDS
According to the National Association of Realtors, homeowners who invest in landscaping and outdoor amenities
typically see nearly a 100% return on their investment. This makes landscaping not only a great way to enhance your outdoor living but a sound financial decision if you ever plan to sell.
Outdoor spaces also provide an ideal setting for socializing and entertaining. Whether it’s hosting a family barbecue, throwing a dinner party or just enjoying a quiet evening under the stars, getting outside fosters connection.
The ability to entertain in an open-air setting enhances our lives and helps create lasting memories. Outdoor kitchens and dining areas help turn your backyard into a valuable hub for relaxation and entertainment.
With a thoughtful design, your outdoor space can become a true extension of your home and a focal point for your life. Connecting with a favorite landscape architect or an experienced landscape professional can help you start the process of turning the dream into a reality.
Glenn Porto is the owner and president of The Landscape Architects, Inc., a designbuild company celebrating its 30th year in business, and is a registered landscape architect in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
Remembering Our Veterans
A member of the Guardians of the National Veterans Cemetery helps fulfill a sacred mission to honor lost comrades.
INTERVIEW WITH ROBERT G. CASTOR
ROBERT G. CASTOR has lived in Upper Makefield Township for 39 years. He is a former executive with Johnson & Johnson (retired in 2004) and a veteran. He served as captain, U.S. Army, 1969 to 1974; and company commander, 502nd ASA Group (battalion), Augsburg, Germany.
In the early 2000s, the Veterans Administration and Congress recognized the need for a new national cemetery in the Philadelphia area. One of the three possible locations was Upper Makefield Township.
Castor played an active role in helping to secure the land for the Washington Crossing National Cemetery. Since it opened in 2010, Castor has continued to be involved as part of the Guardians of the National Veterans Cemetery.
What is the mission of the Guardians of the National Veterans Cemetery, and how did you get involved?
The mission was, and is, to involve our organization in the rendering of final honors to our deceased brothers and sisters who have served this great nation. We also have pledged our support for any duty that the cemetery administration sees fit for us to provide. I have always been involved as one of the 13 original honor guard members of the Guardians. There are about 400 members of the Guardians, about
60 of whom are honor guard [and] perform the ceremonial duties at each interment.
What types of services do the Guardians provide, and why did you decide to become one?
We have five teams, one for each day of the week, [with] about 12 on each team. We pay homage to the deceased by saluting the flag that they served under as it passes. We render a three-volley rifle salute when readied, and we play taps with a live bugler. If the proper military branch
is not available, we have members who fold and present the flag to the next of kin. We also present three shell casings in a cloth bag to the next of kin.
What is your job within the organization, and what do you take away from those experiences?
I have been an FPL [firing party leader] since the beginning in January 2010. There are two other members of my firing party who are original members, John Heenan and Ken Myerson. We have been involved in more than 4,000 funerals. We consider this a great honor to serve in the face of family mourning, provide some modicum of closure and give families the knowledge of the respect we hold for their loved one.
How can someone become a Guardian?
Anyone can join the Guardians; it is a fine organization and always looking for community support. To become an honor guard [member] within the Guardians, one must be an honorably discharged veteran. There is a 30-hour training requirement; ceremonial commands and manual of arms are different in these duties than is learned in the military.
On Memorial Day, are there any special ceremonies or other recommendations on how the community can honor our fallen heroes?
Most of us are involved in Memorial Day services throughout the region. There is a large ceremony at our
national cemetery every year at the central flagpole area; all people are welcome. Many other services are conducted in towns across America, and many [are held] here locally at American Legion Posts, VFWs and at town parades.
Many Americans do not realize the importance of Memorial Day. It is the most solemn day on the calendar for veterans and should be held in reverence by all Americans. It is a day to remember all the sacrifices given by our fallen comrades in battle to preserve our freedoms here. Most people associate this day as the start of the summer party season, but please let it be both.
The Washington Crossing National Cemetery will host a Memorial Day ceremony on May 26, 2025, at 9 a.m.
Serving Pets And Their People
WVeterinarian Brad Bovee, VMD, channeled a rural upbringing into a career treating animals and enjoying the people who love them.
BY DARI KOTZKER
WALKING INTO the Washington Crossing Animal Hospital, you’ll experience a warm, small-town feel where the doctors and staff members know the names of every pet and pet owner. At the veterinary practice, owned by Brad Bovee, VMD, the animals are more than just patients, they are family. Bovee’s goal is to always have the pets’ best interest at heart and to make his clients feel comfortable with any medical decisions.
Bovee grew up in a rural community surrounded by animals and worked on farms and peach orchards
throughout his youth. He says this type of environment is common in the background of a lot of veterinarians.
His father was also a veterinary scientist. Bovee was uncertain of his career path, so he attended the University of Pennsylvania and completed all the prerequisites to go to medical school, attend veterinary school or get a PhD in the sciences. He ultimately decided to apply to the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine to become a veterinary general practitioner.
“I enjoy the science of it, I enjoy the
animals and I enjoy working with the owners,” Bovee says. “If you think you’re going to go to veterinary school and just deal with the animals, you’re not, because they all come with owners.”
A PERFECT LOCATION
Bovee met his wife in veterinary school. Together, they completed internships in Massachusetts and then came back to Pennsylvania, where she got a residency in Philadelphia.
After working at a private practice in New Jersey, Bovee decided to buy his own practice in 2000. Bovee and his wife had adopted two daughters from China and felt that owning a business would give him more control over his schedule. He found the perfect location with Washington Crossing Animal Hospital.
“I was very fortunate to find the veterinarian who I bought this practice from, who was ready to retire, and to find this community to raise my kids here,” Bovee says. “There was a built-in customer base; that’s what you get when you buy a practice—you buy good will. You hope the clients like you and stay, and it worked out nicely.”
For years, Bovee and his family lived less than a mile down the road from the hospital because he used to have to check on his overnight patients. With the growth of referral hospitals, he
now rarely keeps any animals in-house.
Besides annual check-ups and vaccinations, the office performs routine surgeries, dental cleanings and mass removals. Bovee’s practice has a few thousand dogs and cats, and he sees 15 to 20 patients a day. He says his interaction with the animals and
their owners is the most rewarding part of the job.
“The days when people just accept what the doctor tells them to do and just blindly do it are over,” he says.
“People want to know what they’re doing and why. So our goal is to have the best-educated clients.”
Bud Hayman has been coming to the office for 22 years with his four golden retrievers. “I always have lots of questions when I come here, and the knowledge they impart on you helps keep your mind at ease,” Hayman says.
“The staff and doctors take such good care of these animals.”
LIFELONG CONNECTIONS
Running the veterinary office for 25 years, Bovee has created many connections within the Upper Makefield Township community. As the local veterinarian and a resident for the first 20 years of his practice, most of his clients were his children’s friends’ parents.
He says it was an awesome place to raise his family and, since they all loved the outdoors, having the towpath nearby was a plus. He jokes that it was rare for him to go out to dinner without running into someone from the practice.
“I have clients I’ve been through with multiple pets,” Bovee says. “They come with a puppy or kitten, and then 10 to 12 years later, they get another one, so we go through a series. It’s nice, and you get attached to the families.”
Upper Makefield Township resident Matt Ruggles has four cats and one dog. “The staff is tremendous,” Ruggles says. “As my pets get older, [staffers at the practice] are always so proactive with dealing with any little or big crisis. When my German shepherd passed away in January, they were always so responsive with everything we needed. The staff and the doctors treat us like family.”
Bovee says he has a great team that consists of another full-time
veterinarian, a part-time doctor, nurses and receptionists. With the joys of his job, there are the hard decisions that must be made, too. As a doctor, he says, you try your best to compartmentalize but it’s hard because you see animals so frequently as they get older.
“The end of life is always hard,” he says, “but I see it as the last act of love we express for pets.”
THE JOYS OF PETS
April is National Pet Month, but for Bovee, it’s a yearlong recognition. When deciding to get a dog or cat, he says to make sure to do a lot of research so you pick the one that best fits into your lifestyle.
If you are interested in an active dog breed, make sure you have the right setting for the dog to run around, or figure out ways to provide them with lots of activity. He says the advantage of having cats is they don’t require as much work and are easier on homeowners.
Throughout his life, Bovee has
had pets ranging from dogs such as labradors, golden retrievers and French pugs to cats. Currently, he has two Italian greyhounds. He and his wife travel with them and take them hiking all the time.
When not with his pets, Bovee competes in dragon boat racing. He started 10 years ago as part of a charity race. He progressed to joining a club where he competes locally, nationally and internationally. Even with his outside interests, his passion remains with animals.
“Pets just make life better,” Bovee says. “There are more and more studies that show people who have pets have a better quality of life, lower blood pressure and a longer life span. [Pets] are great companions and uniquely evolved to coexist with us.”
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.
Below: Longtime Washington Crossing Animal Hospital client Bud Hayman waits in the lobby with his golden retriever, Baylee, to see Dr. Bovee. Right: 2-year-old Roxie gets a check-up.
A Local Home Run
The Upper Makefield Youth Baseball and Softball League has knocked it out of the park for almost 50 years.
BY DARI KOTZKER
The 1986 opening day parade along Eagles Road
WWHEN A T-BALL PLAYER steps up to the plate and hits the ball for the first time, it’s a thrill for the child, the parents and the coach. This type of scenario, along with the excitement of home runs and strikeouts, can be seen at Lookout Park and the Sol Feinstone fields starting in spring.
Every year, more than 200 kids ranging from 4-year-olds to teenagers can be seen playing this national pastime as part of the Upper Makefield Youth Baseball and Softball League. What started with just four T-ball teams in 1977 has grown to 20 baseball and softball recreational teams and four travel teams.
Upper Makefield resident George Strachan was on the league’s board for 25 years starting in 1980 and served as a past chairman of the board of Parks and Recreation. He says the league initially only had an open piece of ground behind the elementary school for kids to play, and over the years he worked with other volunteers, along with the township, to add all the current fields.
As the initial crew of players got older, travel teams were added. Nicknamed the Mavs (based off the movie “Top Gun”), it’s still the name used today. Strachan says that since its inception, the league has maintained an important mission.
“Our league tried to establish standards and goals for everyone who played or coached,” he says. “We wanted to teach them that if you’re a good teammate and part of a group effort, success was possible. And those lessons could be taken into other parts of life, whether it’s school or a career.”
CAMARADERIE AT THE CORE
The organization is completely volunteer-run and self-funded. The league oversees and pays for field and facility maintenance, and any monetary upgrades to them. The board members also handle registration, uniforms, equipment, rosters, scheduling, fundraising and finding sponsors.
The current board of directors
consists of David Murdza (president), Michael Castello (vice president), Melissa Paparone (secretary) and Ray Myslinski (treasurer). Murdza says the entire board works well together because members all share the goal of providing kids an opportunity to learn about a fun sport and make friends.
“Whether it’s the recreational teams or the travel teams, it’s all about the camaraderie,” Murdza says. “You see these kids form friendships and enjoy being around each other. We hear them
The Upper Makefield Youth Baseball and Softball League includes recreational and travel teams for both boys and girls at a variety of ages.
PHOTO COURTESY OF MEREDITH JALENE PHOTOGRAPHY
in the dugout between drills, and they genuinely enjoy being with each other.”
TAKE ME OUT TO THE BALLGAME
The Upper Makefield teams are part of the River League, which includes towns along the river in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Castello grew up playing baseball in Upper Makefield and now coaches his children here.
“The league was always so focused on making sure every kid got a chance to play,” he says. “It wasn’t about winning, it was more about learning the right way to play and the right way to have fun. And even now, we still
focus on the kids trying their best [and] teaching them skills, teamwork and being respectful.”
Many board members coach multiple teams, and they all say the hard work is worth it. “My favorite part is being out there with the kids and getting them to appreciate the game they are playing,” says Myslinski. “It’s great getting to know them. It’s fun to watch their personalities come out over time and see them progress.”
Paparone played softball for 30 years and decided to become a coach for her daughters when she saw there were no other women coaches. She says it was important to sign up for this position to show her kids and teammates that women can lead teams, too. There are now four female coaches.
“The reward for me is wonderful memories with the kids, but also seeing little girls go from being afraid of the softball to being able to run and throw and catch in the course of a season,” she says. “And when they make contact with the ball and hit it, it’s so fun to watch.”
CONNECTING THE COMMUNITY
Upper Makefield Youth Baseball and Softball League is about more than just the games; it’s an organization that brings the community together on many levels.
The support it receives ranges from Sol Feinstone Elementary School principal John Harlan throwing out the first pitch at opening day to local small businesses sponsoring teams. Also, on May 17, the league will host the third annual Battle of the Badges between the Upper Makefield Township Police Department and the Upper Makefield Volunteer Fire Company, which is a free event for everyone.
“I like the fact that we still have a small-town feel, and we have the opportunity to have small community baseball and softball teams like we do; it feels more personal,” Castello says. “That’s why I liked coming back to Upper Makefield.”
The league has had a lasting impact on Strachan and his family. Strachan’s son George was an avid baseball player, but sadly, in 1989 at 12 years old, he passed away from cancer. Members decided to dedicate their best field to him the following season. It was rebuilt and renamed the George L. Strachan IV Memorial Field, also known as George’s Field. Since the dedication, countless kids have played there, including Strachan’s grandson.
“People come through the league over the years, and they find out more about George because we have a monument and his story is on the
The 2024 Battle of the Badges softball game between members of the Upper Makefield Township Police Department and Upper Makefield Volunteer Fire Company
website,” Strachan says. “We as a league take great pride in that field, and it’s a great place to play,”
A GRAND-SLAM FUTURE
As players age out of the league, many try out for their middle school and high school teams. A few have even been recruited for colleges and drafted by the major leagues.
The success of the Upper Makefield Youth Baseball and Softball League is attributed to its continued support from
volunteers and the community for almost five decades.
“My hope is that we can grow our organization and keep it sustainable for a long time,” Murdza says. “I think introducing it at a younger age [means] those are the kids who are going to fall in love with the game and hopefully stay in the league for five to seven years. At the end of the day, we are giving kids a place to learn the skills of the sport, become good citizens and build something great for the community.”
Top: George Strachan and family at George’s Field, named for Strachan’s late son, George L. Stachan IV. Above and above left: The league is sustained by a large number of volunteer board members and coaches.
Legacy of Love
One of the area’s last generational farms furthers its heritage with the help of four-legged friends.
BY DARI KOTZKER
FFROM THE DAY Heather Roberts was born, she was surrounded by the beauty of nature and the love of animals. She had the distinctive experience of spending her days on her family’s generational farm, where some of her pets included her first puppy and goat at age 5, and a horse when she was 18.
From living and working on the farm, Roberts has an inherent sense of how to interact with a variety of different animals. She has used those skills and experiences to create Sit. Stay., a local doggy day care and boarding business. She runs it on her family’s property in Newtown (less than a quarter mile from Upper Makefield Township), together with her parents.
“I started my animal behavior career when I was a baby,” Roberts says. “From working with animals, I learned to read them, how they operate and how dogs use their body language to communicate. Those innate skills set me up for success in the business, and having my parents’ knowledge creates an even stronger foundation.”
In 1950, her grandparents bought a
bare plot of land at 550 Washington Crossing Rd., where they built a home and barns, along with greenhouses for a nursery business. Eventually, Roberts’ dad, Barry, took over the nursery, and her mom, Diana, had a landscaping company. However, 20 years ago, the farm’s use transitioned out of the greenhouse business into a new direction.
UNLEASHING A BUSINESS
When Roberts was 23, she was a nanny for local resident Abby Simkus, whose family decided to get
a dog. With no doggy day care or a kennel in the immediate area, Simkus suggested Roberts should open this type of business due to her animal knowledge and experience working on a farm. Roberts decided to pursue this idea on the family’s farm with her parents.
“I started it as a side business with a few phenomenal clients who I still have today,” Roberts says. “For many of them, I’m on their third dog.”
Roberts says her client base grew mostly through word of mouth and with the help of social media. Over
From left: Heather Roberts runs her dog day care and boarding business with her parents, Diana and Barry Roberts.
the years, Sit. Stay. has expanded with multiple outdoor play yards, buildings for the dogs and additional employees. Her sister provides grooming services, and Upper Makefield Township police officer and former K9 handler Harry Vitello provides dog training.
At Sit. Stay., dogs are grouped by size, age, temperament, personality and energy level. Roberts says day care is beneficial for a lot of reasons.
“For a lot of our families, day care is a great alternative to just a walk when they’re at work, and it’s beneficial if you plan to travel to get your dog used to an environment where they’re going to be staying overnight,” Roberts says. “From an exercise perspective, nothing tires a dog out like another dog.”
MULTIPLE BONDS
“My husband and I love working with the dogs, and they all have such different personalities,” says Diana. “We are up at 5 a.m. with the overnight dogs to let them out, and then start the day at 7 a.m. for day care. Throughout
the day, we feed them, play with them, clean up after them and always make sure they are happy and comfortable. The dogs are all really fantastic.”
A majority of the day care’s clients are from Upper Makefield Township and Newtown. Roberts says that working with someone’s dog creates a bond with the client.
“What I love about dogs is that they are genuinely giving creatures, and they want to bond with you,” Roberts says. “This business has given my family and me such a unique role in the community because people are trusting us with their dogs and we form such close friendships with so many of our clients.”
Upper Makefield resident and client Alec Arons brings his wire hair fox terrier, Harry, to day care. “What I love about this facility is the love that Harry gets and the attention he gets,” Arons says. “The Roberts family are fantastic people, and I would not trust Harry with just anybody; they take good care of him.”
Top: Having grown up on a farm, Heather Roberts has an inherent sense of how to interact with animals. Bottom: Harry, a wire hair fox terrier, enjoys his time at Sit. Stay.
GIVING BACK
With her large client base from Upper Makefield Township and roots nearby, Roberts has become heavily involved in the community with volunteer work. A year ago, she started the nonprofit Keystone Community Coalition with her friend Devon Scaccetti. The coalition raises money through events to give back to a variety of local organizations.
“The reception has been incredible in Upper Makefield Township, where we host most of our events,” Roberts says. “As much as we can do to benefit the community and give back, we’ll keep going. People want to make a difference, and we want to create a place for people to feel that connection.”
Roberts says the township is special because of its history, landscape and people. She also highlights how the police and fire departments are remarkable because they are so heavily involved in the community. And for her, residents have been supportive of her small business.
“They love their dogs, and they want to have a relationship with the people who are caring for their dogs, and that’s wonderful,” Roberts says. “We have a great group of families we sit for.”
A FAMILY PRESENCE
One aspect that makes Sit. Stay. stand out is the business’s family connections. There will always be a family member on-site, which offers a personal touch. Besides Roberts and her parents, her grandmother (who lived to 96) watched the small puppies until she passed away, and Roberts’ 10-year-old son loves helping with the dogs in his free time.
While many farms have been bought out by developments or other
businesses, the Roberts family’s hope is to continue this legacy. Roberts’ parents plan to pass the farm down to the next generation. “My parents started the farm,” says Barry. “I’ve always been here and never left. We’re one of the last and longestrunning generational farms in Newtown and the area as a whole, so that means a lot to me.”
Roberts expects Sit. Stay. to continue to flourish and grow.
“It’s great having a family unit [of people] who support each other, so I feel blessed to come up with an idea where we can all work together,” she says. “The fact that we have the farm and keep the farm as a family business really is a gift.”
Above: Roberts loves playing with her charges. Left: At Sit. Stay., dogs are grouped by size, age, temperament, personality and energy level.
Renewal Through Art
Fiber artist Lucine Kaplan challenges conventional narratives of identity and gender.
BY ASHARA SHAPIRO
FIBER ARTS have long been an integral yet often overlooked medium within fine art, carrying an inherent sense of renewal—its tactile nature grounding us in the origins of making while simultaneously being a space for artists to bring historical making into contemporary expression. Once relegated to the realm of craft, fiber arts have rightfully reclaimed their place within critical artistic discourse, celebrated for their ability to merge tradition with innovation and concept with form. The embracing of fiber arts today reflects a broader appreciation for materiality, process and the handmade, as artists continue to challenge the hierarchies of artistic value.
Lucine Kaplan, a wellknown artist in residence at ArtWRKD in Newtown, presents an innovative dialogue between materiality and meaning, fully recognizing the potential of fiber arts. As the first and only artist to employ pantyhose as
Artist Lucine Kaplan with some of her work displayed.
PHOTOGRAPH BY KIM BILLINGSLEY
a 2D fiber medium, Kaplan redefines textilebased art, positioning it at the intersection of fashion, feminism and conceptual practice.
BALANCE AND DUALITY
Her work speaks through the physicality of its medium stretched, layered and transformed. The delicate nature of transparency and abstraction reflects an intricate balance between control and surrender, inviting the viewer to consider the material’s dualities: fragility and resilience; restriction and liberation; intimacy and exposure. Through these tensions, Kaplan’s work challenges conventional narratives of identity and gender. Her art embodies renewal, reclaiming discarded materials and elevating them into evocative forms that speak
to personal and collective histories. This exhibition is not just a display of technical mastery, but an invitation to reconsider fiber as an artistic language—one deeply rooted in the pedestrian female experience yet reseen in a strikingly contemporary way.
With nearly 100 exhibitions in major art cities—including the Denver Art Museum, LA Art Show and Basel House— Kaplan has established herself as an innovator. Her work will be in the group exhibition “Unveiled Threads,” a fiber exhibition on view at ArtWRKD for the month of May.
The creative world will continue to embrace this medium as artists explore, embrace and follow their curiosities of expression. It is up to us as patrons to see the beauty in what can be overlooked, the unexpected expression in fiber arts.
Ashara Shapiro is gallerist and curator of ArtWRKD in Newtown, an art consortium with a mission for discovering, fostering and sharing original work by emerging artists through its workshop and exhibition space.
MAY ART EVENTS
UNVEILED THREADS— A FIBER EXHIBITION
ArtWRKD
May 2 through 25
Artist Reception May 10
Wearable Art Fashion Show May 16-17
PAINT OUR RIVER TOWNS
AOY Arts Center co-hosted with Countryside Gallery, Experience Yardley, The Friends of Washington Crossing Park and Historic Fallsington
May 17 through June 2
NAPLES: GROUNDED IN GOLD Michener Art Museum
May 24 through November 23
Top: “Chess King and Queen” by Lucine Kaplan Bottom: “Eiffel Tower” by Lucine Kaplan
LISA
TIPS FOR Great Grilling
A local chef offers pointers on searing favorite foods to make the most of barbecue season.
BY JOSEPH A. GARVEY
AS A CHEF who grew up in Bucks County, my favorite time of year by far is when Memorial Day kicks off the grilling season! It is an exciting time for creating new recipes and learning about the newest cooking trends. I enjoy using fresh farm-to-table products. Presentation is also important for any Memorial Day party gathering.
The key to a successful grilled meal is to lock flavors in, but this can only be done when you have
the grill as hot as possible. So, prior to grilling, rub oil on grates, making the grill smoke. For different flavors, add soaked, smoked woods such as applewood and cherry.
Find the chef in you! Here are tips for some specific summertime favorites:
GRILLED SHRIMP AND SCALLOPS
Discover a zest for grilled seafood by following measures like these.
• Buy U-10 sea scallops, meaning there are approximately under 10 scallops per pound, so you get a larger size and a more flavorful experience.
• Always use a dry grill and pan-sear to perfection.
• For shrimp, Gulf Coast U-13 white shrimp are the way to go because they are considered jumbo size.
• Always marinate by mixing ingredients, then chill.
• Include olive oil, fresh garlic, black pepper, kosher salt and fresh basil.
• Add lemon and lime zest, finely grated. Zest will bring out freshness in grilled items and give it a burst.
STRIP STEAK, FILET AND BURGERS
Meat is always a popular choice at barbecues. Most people fear ruining a steak, but this will not happen if you have a hot grill and get a dark brown
char on both sides. Just don’t let those juices out! Tips:
• Grill meats on both sides. The key to grilling is to lock in all juices and flavors from grill and seasonings.
• Set the temperature at 125 for medium rare.
RIBS AND CHICKEN WINGS
I love baby back ribs! They’re easy to make at home. Always use a dry rub.
• I highly recommend using paprika, dry mustard, ground onion, garlic, black pepper, kosher salt, brown sugar and a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Roast in the oven until tender, then put the product on a raised roasted
rack. Add liquid smoke in the bottom of the pan, which can be done in advance and will simplify your grilling experience.
• Finally, grill to perfection.
CORN AND CRAB BOURBON BISQUE
As a chef, you always get excited about creating new ideas, and this year, it’s time to have fun using fresh corn!
Peel ears of corn, cut the corn off cobs and roast with olive oil, garlic, salt and pepper.
Take cobs that you would normally throw away and make a stock. Add onions and celery and boil down for two hours.
• Add crab stock from your steamed crabs, then add old bay and garlic.
• Reduce, add cream and lace with bourbon.
VEGETABLES
Trending now for side dishes are portabella mushrooms and grilled asparagus, with arugula, roasted corn and avocado.
• Know that vegetables gain so much flavor from the grill.
• Just add a light marinade, then grill hot to get a charred flavor.
Chef Joseph A. Garvey owns Joseph’s Premier Catering and will soon release the book “A Day In The Life of A Chef.” For questions about grilling, email him at chef@josephspremiercatering.com.
Chef Joseph A. Garvey says key steps to successful summer grilling include searing on a hot grill and imparting flavors by rubbing oil on grates or using soaked, smoked woods.
Simple Steps for a TIDY HOME
Spring organizing helps reset your home and gives you a head start on seasonal cleaning.
BY ALLIE LICATA
AS COOL TEMPERATURES
fade and spring continues to emerge, there is an undeniable energy in the air—a sense of renewal and fresh beginnings. In Upper Makefield and Washington Crossing, where historic charm meets modern living, spring is the perfect time to declutter, organize and reset your home.
and chaos slowly creep in over the winter?
Here’s how to start your spring cleaning by decluttering and making your home a haven that’s both more appealing and more functional.
START WITH AN EDIT
One of the most effective ways to refresh your home is by decluttering. Go room by room, category by category, and be honest about what you use, need and love. If an item no longer serves a purpose or brings joy, consider donating it. Local organizations such as Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore or the Wrightstown Food Cupboard often accept gently used household goods and furniture.
A great way to streamline the process is the one-touch rule: Handle an item once and make an immediate decision to keep, donate, recycle or discard. This prevents items from lingering in “maybe” piles and keeps momentum going.
bins, drawer dividers and turntables to maximize efficiency. In high-traffic areas such as mudrooms or entryways, consider installing hooks, baskets and designated drop zones for shoes, bags and keys. With so many families enjoying outdoor activities at Washington Crossing Historic Park, having a well-organized spot for seasonal gear makes coming and going seamless.
MAINTAIN MOMENTUM
The key to long-term organization is maintaining it. Implement simple daily habits, like a five-minute tidyup each evening or a “one-in, oneout” rule for new purchases. Spring cleaning isn’t just about getting rid of things—it’s about creating a home that feels peaceful, functional and truly supportive of your lifestyle.
With longer days and warmer weather, spring naturally inspires us to open our windows, shake off the dust and embrace a fresh start. But before you dive into deep cleaning, take a step back and assess the spaces in your home. Are they working for you and your family? Or did clutter
CREATE FUNCTIONAL, ORGANIZED SPACES
Once you’ve pared down your belongings, it’s time to organize what remains. Think about how you use each space in your home. In homes with spacious kitchens and welcoming family rooms, these areas should be functional and clutter-free. Use labeled
This season, take advantage of the fresh start that spring offers. By decluttering and organizing, you’ll not only transform your home but also set the stage for a lighter, more intentional way of living all year long.
Allie Licata is founder and owner of The Curated Home Company, a professional organizing business in Doylestown that helps busy families transform spaces by creating personalized, functional, stylish and stress-free organizing solutions.
Welcome friends! So glad you’re here!
I’m Jenny, your local Bucks County, Philadelphia and New Jersey Photographer. Some things about me… I married the love of my life, I’m a mama to two rambunctious boys, I drink more coffee than I should, I love to travel and immerse myself in new cultures and I’m a true hippy at heart! I’m obsessed with sunsets and capturing motherhood, families and couples during the beautiful golden hour. I am captivated by raw, authentic emotion and moments between couples and families.
My work is what I would call emotive storytelling. I look forward to capturing your family’s story.
Celebration and Honor
Fill your days with great May reads that uplift mothers, pets and veterans.
BY LIZ YOUNG
SPRINGTIME is the season to spend outside admiring the warmth of the sun and the freshness of the earth. The month of May celebrates pets, mothers and fallen heroes. No matter what the subject matter, this is the perfect time to discover a Commonplace Reader favorite.
“HARRY
BY THE SEA”
By Gene Zion;
illustrated by Margaret Bloy Graham
Kids are a great audience when you have winsome pictures and clever language. This book is a classic filled with an adventure for a dog named Harry. Harry is a cheerful beach walker and appreciates a day with his family until the sun gets hot—and then the fun really begins.
“HEAT”
By Mike Lupica
A delicious tale featuring summertime’s favorite sport, and the perfect read for your favorite young baseball fan. It’s an underdog story of great proportions: Michael has much to prove in showing that his talent and diligence are his own gifts that will carry him and his brother far on their journey to find home and family.
“THE THREAD COLLECTORS”
By Shaunna J. Edwards and Alyson Richman
This is a story of two women and their families as they protect what is dearest and bravely risk everything for those they love. Fashioned during the Civil War, it provides the reader with
perspectives usually unexplored in this time period, particularly Jewish and African American families struggling to maintain family ties and a future in a shifting society.
“THE POSTCARD”
By Anne Berest
An historical fiction novel that is part memoir, part biography and family history. Exquisitely written and translated from French, this is a not-tobe-missed story from Paris, alive with mystery and uncertainty of the legacy to be uncovered. This is an amazing mother-and-daughter story for Mother’s Day.
“WHEN
THE SEA CAME ALIVE: AN ORAL HISTORY OF D-DAY”
By Garrett M. Graff
Memorial Day is fresh in our minds at the end of the month. This is an excellent book written with verve and honest recollections of a tremendously important day in military history. Organization, ruthless performance and diligent adherence to schedule and detail overlay the importance of success—because failure is not an option. The paperback edition reaches bookstore shelves just in time to make a treasured Father’s Day gift.
Liz Young is the owner of Commonplace Reader (commonplacereader.com), which just celebrated its five-year anniversary and hosts several adult book clubs each month along with kids’ activities on Saturdays in the shop on Main Street in Yardley.
BACKYARD VISITOR
THE DOWNY WOODPECKER is the smallest woodpecker in North America, distinctive for its black and white feathers. They frequent feeders and tree limbs in search of insects and have been known to enjoy tapping on the shingles of houses. This bird was photographed sitting on a shepherd hook in Upper Makefield Township by Alec Arons, a clarity and change coach. An avid photographer, Arons enjoys capturing landscapes and wildlife—always drawn to the quiet moments that reveal something deeper.
Have a fabulous Upper Makefield photo?
Email it to editor@ uppermakefieldmag.com and it could be featured in an upcoming issue!
