Dana and Pattie Christensen wanted, not only a house would fit into and be a part of the beautiful Upper Bucks Landscape, but also a house that would be their “forever home” / By Beth S. Buxbaum
86 g Spring Photo Essay
Photos that display the beauty of Bucks County and the way spring says to us all, “it’s time to go outside” / By Bobby Waite
90 g Down the Shore
The Jersey Shore offers sand,surf, and fun for visitors worldwide, and Bucks Countians often go down to the seaside beach towns on the New Jersey Coast / By Bob Waite
122 g Annual Wedding Guide
Bucks County’s Annual Wedding Guide helps those potential brides and grooms plan a wedding in Bucks County and it’s surrounding area
On The Cover
Our artist-in-residence, Jennifer Hansen Rolli’s painting of a garden at a beach house at the New Jersey shore perfectly combines the theme of our cover article and our seasonal theme of spring’s beauty.
54 g People / By Cynthia Marone
Chris Marano loves Jeeps and he loves Bucks County, so it is no stretch for him to be in the business of taking people on eye-opening sightseeing Jeep tours throughout the county
57 g Art Galley / By Michele Malinchak
Tracy is an intuitive painter who plans every move, believes every mark on the canvas is a decision and that it is important for an artist to take risks
64 g In the Garden / By Lori Rose
Yellow flowers light up the landscape with traditional varieties like Black-eyed Susans, marigolds, daffodils and new varieties such as Bees Knees, Queeny Lemon Peach and Artisan Yellow Ombre
68 g At Home / By Chrysa Smith
The owner of Slate Building & Hardscaping Ladislav Kotoulek and his wife Sonja decided to design and build 680 square foot addition onto their Tinicum home for Sonja’s dreamt of kitchen
114 g Getaway / By Bob & TanyaWaite
When Tanya and I visited Bethlehem for two days, we found that there is so much to do in the Lehigh Valley that we need to call on our next door neighbor regularly and become good friends
148 g County Fare / By Diana Cercone
Chef Anthony Boccella believes that it is almost a sacrilege that arancini, such an important and widely loved delicacy in Sicily, is hardly known in the United States
$2,500,000
$895,000
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BucksCounty
magazine
Publisher
William N. Waite
Executive Editor Bob Waite
Art Direction
BCM MEDIA CO., INC.
President
Vicky M. Waite
Administration Melissa Kutalek
Calendar Editor Melissa Kutalek
Marketing Assistant Bobby Waite
Cover Artist
Jennifer Hansen Rolli
Contributing Writers
Beth Buxbaum, Diana Cercone, Michele Malinchak, Cynthia Marone Frank Quattrone, Chrysa Smith, Vicky Waite, Bob Waite
Circulation
BCM MEDIA Co., INC.
Contributing Photographers
Randl Bye, Stacey Simcik, Paul Wesley
Account Executives
Lisa Bridge, Jess Graves Ann Ferro Murray Bobby Waite
Bucks County Magazine, (ISSN 2164-9847), 309 W. Armstrong Drive, Fountainville, PA 18923, phone 215-766-2694 • Fax 215-7668197. www.buckscountymag.com. Published quarterly by BCM Media Company Inc., Fountainville, PA. All contents copyright by BCM Media Company DBA/Bucks County Magazine. All Rights Reserved. Published quarterly. Four-issue subscription for U.S. is $18.95, in Canada $35.00, U.S. dollars only. Foreign oneyear rate is $90. Standard postage paid at Lancaster, PA. Single-copy price is $4.95 plus $3.00 postage and handling.
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Bucks County Magazine, PO BOX 36, Morrisville, PA 19067. This magazine welcomes, but cannot be responsible for, manuscripts and photos unless accompanied by a stamped, selfaddressed return envelope.
Signature
By Bob Waite
DAVID STIER TRISHA VERGIS
Spring is about expectations—optimistic ones. We expect to see trees abloom with green leaves and colorful flowers. We expect to see crocuses bravely test the weather followed by a host of daffodils and troops of tulips. We expect rain to water these beautiful creations and we expect to have warm days where we walk outside carrying a sweater but wearing a tee-shirt.
In the midst of all these expectations, we think about recreation and where we will go during the summer—our vacation. Spring in also a time of preparation. That’s why our cover feature is about the Jersey Shore—close in distance, yet far in experience. Besides seeing our iconic fieldstone houses, barns and rolling hills, we can spend a week or more seeing lighthouses, beach houses, and sand and surf. In our feature, “Down the Shore,” we give you just enough information to whet your appetite for more. Artist-in-Residence Jennifer Hansen Rolli has painted a beach house with a garden and a path leading to the sea to help us be prepared for what can fulfill the expectations of spring.
In our Spring 2023 issue of Bucks County Magazine we feature a house built into the majestic landscape of Upper Bucks County. This house built by J.R. Maxwell Builders for Dana and Pattie Christensen is described in our feature “A Forever Home,” by Beth S. Buxbaum. In this article Beth explores how this “forever house” was planned by Dana and Pattie and eventually built based on their aesthetics and needs.
My wife Tanya and I visited Bethlehem for our Getaway department and found that right next door to Bucks County is a region that is brimming with culture, history, fine dining and entertainment. Our stay at the Sayre Mansion and visits to the National Museum of Industrial History, the Apollo Restaurant, Wind Creek Casino Resort, the streets of downtown Bethlehem and the drives we took through the softly rolling hills of the Lehigh Valley were a relaxing reprieve from the stress of daily life.
“Time to Get Outside,” a photo essay by Bobby Waite, captures through the lens of his camera the beauty of Bucks County’s rural countryside, small towns, Delaware River and outdoor gatherings of people on a beautiful spring day. It urges us pictorially to get out there and enjoy this romantic season of expectation and joy.”
In our Spring 2023 issue of Bucks County Magazine we have our Annual Wedding Guide, a profile of a man who gives Jeep tours of the county, an article about using yellow flowers in our gardens, photos of CoTY award-winning remodeling projects, a chef in Yardley who makes the Sicilian specialty arancini, an article about places to go in Princeton, NJ and its surrounding area, an artist who is an intuitive risk taker, two great local restaurants and more about the people, places and things to do in Bucks County. So expect good things for the spring, prepare for your summer vacation and take in all the beauty and warmth that spring in Bucks County brings your way.
the perso e’re he We hind n be or re f
At St. Mary Medical Center, we treat offer a level of tailored care to fit your th k l d d ti f t
your health condition, but we see you. That’s why individual needs. Match that personalized care wit ti lh lth t d h l l fh lth we h care the knowledge and exper tise of a national health system, and you have a level of health that can’t be equaled. We treat you like we all want to be treated — like a person.
“Evening Comes,” a 12” x 16” oil by Dorothy Hoeschen, will be among the paintings featured in Abloom, the Spring Exhibition opening March 4th at Patricia Hutton Galleries, Doylestown. Ms Hoeschen, a national award-winning artist, will also have a Solo show at the gallery in early June. For more information call 215-348-1728. www.patriciahuttongalleries.com.
Sampler
at Hats Galore Boutique you’ll discover hats for all women and men. They offer a large variety of styles and to find the right look, and they carry many different brands of hats, tops, jackets and accessories. They are located in Peddlers Village, Lahaska, PA; 215-794-5944. www.hatsgaloreboutique.com.
… the Best Subscription Box for women diagnosed with cancer. We change the theme each month and fill the box with 5-7 items to stir your faith, inspire your day, lift your spirit ... and maybe even make you smile. Get HOPE delivered to your door! Gift a loved one or gift yourself. www.hangingonhope.com
Serving up just the right amount of sweetness to Bucks County and beyond, the Factory Girl Bake Shop does things a little differently than most these days. Everything they bake, from their pretty cakes to the Sunday buns, the English Muffin Bread, the beloved espresso bars, or homemade pop tarts—and everything in between—is baked the old-fashioned way, with real, pure ingredients and with an abundance of love and care. Located in New Hope, PA and our open hours are Friday 10-4, Saturday 11-4, and Sunday 9-12. www.factorygirlbakeshop.com.
as a master woodworker, Michael is able to craft the most intricate designs. From boxes to lamps and furniture to home decor, there is something available for everyone. Many of these high quality, handmade wood turned pieces are available to buy. As a result, you can own these masterful works of craftsmanship. Contact him at 267-374-8403 or visit www.michaelkehswoodworks.com.
Big Red Firetruck wall clock by Michele Allen measures 10” x 11.25″ and has hand-painted clock hands with a swinging fire hydrant pendulum. This and many other gift items can be found at A Mano Galleries, 42 North Union Street, Lambertville, NJ; 609-397-0063; www.amanogalleries.com.
… custom made Gar Wood motorboats are as powerful as they are beautiful, and are sure to make your heart race. The renowned Turcotte brothers have applied technological advancements in marine engines and boat construction to make classically styled, mahogany watercraft that are as thrilling to drive as they are to look at. www.garwoodcustomboats.com.
C. 1873 DAIRY BARN ADAPTIVE
Among rolling hills, down a heritage tree-lined path, sits a quintessential Pennsylvania farm with stone bank barn that soars above the surrounding hills. Built as a dairy barn in 1873, the barn’s original agrarian use is a fond memory after the recent renovation designed by Period Architecture.Their design approach was focused on breathing new life into the building while respecting the history of the structure and its surroundings. Reimagined for modern entertaining, the barn has been transformed into the ultimate private hosting retreat with multiple lounging spaces creating a warm, cozy atmosphere among the vast square footage. Downstairs, as an homage to their former hoofed tenants, the original barn stalls were transformed into restrooms, and a full kitchen allows the homeowners to host family meals. Outside, stucco was removed from the façade to repoint the original fieldstone, most likely sourced directly from the property by the 1870s owner.
During the restoration, the upmost attention was paid to honor the rich history of this property. Creative solutions were found to salvage as many original details as possible. For example, the original floorboards were removed, re-milled and reinstalled to keep the classic character alive throughout the main level.
The evolution from barnyard bastion to an epicenter for entertainment required a respect for the past and an eye for the future.A barn such as this has the power to transcend time.When people walk through the doors, their nostalgia recognizes the authentic details and they allow their imaginations, if only for a moment, to transport them to another world. For more information or a consultation, visit www.periodarchitectureltd.com.
COUNTRY CARPENTER’S
Ingenuity, Puritan resolve, and the American tradition of value that last and lasts.The first American carpenters, many of whom were shipbuilders, immediately put their skills to use right in their own backyards.These men were versatile enough to build barns and structures that were at first functional, but also beautiful in their simplicity and structural integrity as well. So, what we can learn from these "founding fathers" of post & beam is that they adapted — incorporating the truth and beauty of past experience into the lifestyle of the day. That is exactly what Country Carpenters, Inc. is doing today. Founded in 1974, Country Carpenter’s fine post & beam barns, carriage houses and garden sheds benefit from hundreds of years of New England's best buildings.Their designs combine the aesthetics of New England with the strength of post & beam.And finally, Country Carpenter’s
unique pre-cut, pre-engineered building kits allow a local professional carpenter to make the building of their client's dreams a reality they can afford today. Country Carpenters success is proven, having shipped carriage houses, garden sheds and country barns in the form of building kits to forty-two U.S. states, Canada, Ireland, England, and Australia. These iconic post and beam buildings embody quintessential New England architecture and are handcrafted to last for generations. Garden sheds, carriage houses and beautiful country barns designed to suit your specific needs while welcoming your personalized touch. Discover the Country Carpenters difference and treat your family to the very best. To explore the fine craftsmanship and many styles available, visit www.countrycarpenters.com.
MOBILE BAR RENTALS
Paul Petrone and Elizabeth West’s business, Libation Station Mobile Bar Rentals, which provides mobile bars in vintage 1961 VW Bus and a 1958 Serro Scotty Alum Trailer began during the pandemic. Paul, who was in the business of selling kitchen equipment and food packaging to restaurants and caterers for 20 years, was hit hard by Covid. “When Covid hit, everything shut down,” Paul says.
He realized during this period that the only people in related businesses who were doing anything, were doing outdoor catering. He said, “I thought, ‘You know what? I've been doing this long enough and people were going to get outdoors for these events, and they're not going to want go back inside.They're going to realize what they've been missing all these years.’” So, understanding the opportunity, he came up with the idea of portable bars for outdoor events, such as weddings, engagement parties, showers, family picnics, bar mitzvahs, birthday parties, and other events that can be held outdoors.
Paul said, “While I was thinking about this, I just kind of fell into a situation where I could get a 1961 VW Bus and a 58 Serro Scotty camper. I had the idea that it might be really cool to also have the VW Photo Booth and VW bar.” They started with only having a bar. The Photo Booth became a reality when he purchased two 1974 VW buses—one kept in Doylestown and the other in Florida.
Elizabeth noted that the 1961 VW is the vehicle that most people
want. She says, It looks amazing—wine and liquor bar on the side and a beer bar in the back with two taps.The custom millwork is backlit at night which makes for a great presentation.” The 1958 Serro Scotty Alum Trailer she says, has one tap and a liquor and wine bar, millwork is also backlit for night use.
The 1974 VW's are set up for Photo Booth (new this year) and they have a liquor and wine bar in the back. The Photo Booth has all the fun items for pictures and the self-serve Kiosk is a 70's era TV. All the vehicles come with lots of 60s’ and 70s’ authentic and vintage items such as ice chests, radios, cameras, glassware, and various throwback items from the era—TV Guides, games and more. They are equipped with Bluetooth for music, electrical, and have USB connections. “We have a Surfboard serving bar and a custom wood serving bar. All highend barware is included with every event,” Elizabeth said.
Paul said, “It's being received really well, and the interesting thing is that I thought that there'd be a certain demographic age-wise that would be really attracted to this, but it's interesting that people that weren't even alive in 1974 are really enjoying it. People love the retro-look.”
To learn more about having a mobile bar or a bar and Photo Booth at your next important event, call 844-MYBARZZ, email libationsta tions@gmail.com or visit www.libationstations.com.
LOCAL MARKET & CHEESE SHOP
Dana Pezza, owner and operator of Itri Wood Fired Pizza Bar and now The Forager, has had a lifelong dream of opening a local market and cheese shop in a town and a space that she loved. Born in Philadelphia and raised in Huntingdon Valley, Dana is trained in “the business” from her experience with owning Itri Wood Fired Pizza Bar. However, there is no better training in the craft of farm-to-table than at home with her mother, Linda, who cooks incredible American comfort food style meals
which have been the talk of family and neighbors for years. Using her professional and personal experiences and influences, Dana has crafted a style of her own which she is excited to share in the town she calls home, Bristol Borough. Local. Local. Local. Whenever possible our ingredients will come from farms and vendors from PA, NJ, DE, and NY.We may occasionally find a cheese from elsewhere in the states or the world that is too good to pass up, however, we believe in supporting local agriculture and cheese making.
The Forager is located at 300 Mill Street, Bristol, PA. For more information about The Forager, visit www.forageronmill.com.
TREE TRAILS ADVENTURES
Tree Trails Adventures offers an adrenalin rush for anyone wanting to see the forest from the treetops.
The Park consists of six courses made of cable, rope and wood for adults and kids that span between platforms built around trees using quirky bridges, netted tunnels, gliding rides and zip lines to navigate tree to tree. New this year, the park will open its 1,000 ft dual racing ziplines called ZipRacer and a new zip trail.
Upon arrival guests harness up with climbing gear, are trained and monitored while they practice, then take to the trees for self-guided two-hour adventure.While climbing, they experience the thrill of navigating the treetops on beginner to expert trails discovering intense challenges that test balance, stamina, and strength up to 50 feet up. For the new ZipRacer experience, guests are harnessed, briefed and sent to the zip platform for their screaming ride down the zipline, competing against someone else or for a personal best. TreeTrails is located at The Phoenix Sport Club, 301 W. Bristol Road, Trevose, PA. Go to TreeTrails.com for details.
CELEBRATING
102 YEARS
Value, Excellence,Accountability and Service: those are the core values of the team at Worthington and Shagen Custom Builder, Inc. Celebrating their 102nd year in the custom home building industry,WSCB continues to deliver the highest quality new homes and extensive addition & renovation projects. Every project curated by the WSCB team is a masterpiece achieved through sophisticated design sensibilities, constant communication with owner’s and excellence with an award-winning team of skilled craftsmen.
Updated, personalized and functional were the three thoughts that the Newtown clients had in mind when hiring Worthington & Shagen to renovate their new home. This home was constructed in 2000 in a tract home neighborhood, and newly purchased in 2020, this home needed several additions and overall an update to the design to enhance it’s character and make it more suitable for their family’s lifestyle.
After working strategically with the design team at Wolstenholme Associates, the completion of this whole house renovation is quite an astonishment that delivered on the homeowner’s aesthetic and budgetary requirements. Through the combination of Pennsylvania fieldstone, solid dimensional cornice, and cementitious siding this transitional estate now has wonderful interest that will be relevant for years to come.
Upon entrance into the home you can instantly see the drastic changes. Everything from the once dated to now, modernized gourmet kitchen to the previous living room space, now dining area with double sided fireplace open to the living space addition, every detail of this home was augmented and brought to life. Even utility areas such as the mudroom, laundry area and even walkways were enhanced to brighten the space and provide character and extreme functionality. This space was designed and created to bring an antiquated home with extreme potential to a modernized, functional, entertaining space.
Everyone at WSCB continues to have the experience and dedication to construct, restore, and renovate one-of-a kind homes.We view each new project as an opportunity to further our 100 year+ legacy. At WSCB we believe our clients should get excellence and exactly what they want. For more information contact them at 215-504-500 or visit www.worthingtonshagencustombuilder.com.
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BOB RICHEY FEATURED AT STOVER MILL
Bob Richey of Warminster, PA will be the featured artist at the Stover Mill Gallery, Erwinna, PA which opens its 2023 exhibition season in April 2023. Bob Richey’s solo exhibition titled, Capturing Color, Light and Texture with Pastels begins with a reception for the artist on Saturday, April 8 from 1-5pm.
This exhibition will offer a very diverse selection of Bob Richey’s intimate pastels created with much energy in a single sitting. Bob’s pastels often explore the out of the way and overlooked corners of both the rural and urban landscape. The major goal as stated by the artist, “is to strive to make the geometry of the world accessible, inviting and beautiful.” Bob’s artwork is strong on composition, and he states that, “I want every part of the image to pull its weight with nothing being wasted or overdone.”
Bob is a mainly self-taught artist who has been exhibiting his artwork in the Bucks County area for almost 50 years. During this
same period, Bob also pursued a 25-year engineering career with the United States Navy, eventually taking an early retirement in 1996 to pursue his art career full time.
Bob has won over 100 regional and national awards for his pastels included multiple awards from the annual Phillips Mill Art Show and a purchase award from the James Michener Art Museum. Bob is one of the featured artists in the popular book, Artists of the River Towns, by Doris Brandes. Bob is a designated “master artisan” with the Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsmen.
Bob Richey’s pastel exhibition can be seen during the last four weekends of April 2023 at the Stover Mill Gallery (April 8–9, 15–16, 22–23, 29–30). The gallery is located at 852 River Road, Route 32, Erwinna, PA. Stover Mill Gallery is open on Saturday and Sundays from 1 to 5 p.m. The gallery can be reached at 610-294-9420 or you can visit www.StoverMillGallery.org.
mily Sessions is a skincare expert. She offers custom facials tailored to her clients’ needs. It includes double-cleanse, dermaplane, light peel or enzymes to exfoliate, mask and some light extraction if needed. It can also include vibration therapy, high frequency, galvanic current, and LED light. It’s perfect for first time clients.
Once you complete a consultation with Emily, she’ll develop a plan for you. She specializes in helping with getting acne under control. She also has a beyond Botox facial which renews and revitalizes the skin with potent anti-aging peptides, powerful antioxidents, stem cells and botanicals. Emily offers many options and skincare products. Visit her website at https://emilysessionsskincare.glossgenius.com.
Salvatore Outdoor is the newest addition to the Sal's Nursery & Landscaping family of companies. Founded by Sal and Mary Antonucci in 1956, Sal's Nursery has become a household name, adapting and expanding to fit the need for an all-inclusive design build firm. Other members of the Sal's Nursery family include Bonucci Masonry, Lorenti Builders, Aqua Clean, and Distinctive Outdoor Structures. Overseeing the in-house design team,Tamara Fellowes explained the conception of Salvatore Outdoor and how they “learned from each outdoor space they created to grow and fit the need of any services not previously offered”.
The Salvatore Outdoor Showroom and Design Center boasts a wide range of goods and services meant to create the most convenient solution to design any outdoor space. With all of the branches of the Sal's Nursery family represented under one roof, their customers can anticipate guidance with a cohesive design process; from the concep-
SALVATORE OUTDOOR
tion of your design through to the completed build and ongoing maintenance of your outdoor project. Some of the products on display at the Salvatore Outdoor Showroom include shade solutions from Frankford, outdoor appliances from Fire Magic, and luxury motorized pergolas from StruXure. While perusing the many product offerings and enjoying the beautiful display gardens in their spacious two-acre piazza, Tamara let us in on their vision for the showroom. “We want this to be more than a furniture store, but also destination for you to spend time and be inspired" Tamara states.
Come visit the Salvatore Outdoor Showroom and Design Center located at 106 Witchwood Drive, North Wales, PA 19454. Salvatore Outdoor is open by appointment Monday through Wednesday. The showroom and design center is also open to the public Thursday through Saturday from 9:00am to 5:00pm. To contact the showroom, call 215-918-9965or visit their website at www.SalvatoreOutdoor.com.
Tamara Fellowes
BUCKS FEVER a celebration of the arts
What the Central Bucks Chamber of Commerce began well over 40 years ago as a two-day celebration called Celebrate the Arts that grew into a week-long program, now is a ten month program designed to make the arts, culture and festivals of Bucks County accessible to all residents and visitors. It is Bucks Fever, and The Central Bucks Chamber produces over eight flagship Bucks Fever programs.
Additionally, Bucks Fever promotes hundreds of the area’s arts and cultural organizations by promoting their events and programs in a beautifully designed, colorful magazine, produced annually and paid for by generous and community-minded business leaders and organizations. Bucks Fever has become a hallmark of the region which is renowned for its beauty and commitment to arts and culture.
This is a sampling of Bucks Fever events throughout 2023. For a complete listing of Bucks Fever Events visit www.centralbuckschamber.com. For further information contact brad@centralbuckschamge.com
Enjoy the Bucks Fever Art Exhibition & Studio Tour in November 2023. Photo: Heart & Soul Portraits.
Bucks Fever Brown Bag-it from May thur September 2023
The Bucks-Mont 2022 CoTY Awards display for winners a level of excellence that those in the home remodeling industry want to present to their clients and their peers
By Bob Waite
Every year the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) gives awards to members whose work displays excellence that year. Conal Roney, President of the BucksMont chapter of the NARI, has given us photos of projects done in the area that have won Contractor of the Year (CoTY) Awards. Conal says, “CoTY wards are like the Oscars, but for remodelers.” They are special and display a level of excellence that those in the home remodeling industry want to present to their clients and their peers.
CoTY Awards are given at the local, regional and national level. Members who enter on the local level can also enter on the regional level, which is a larger area. So Bucks-Mont is part of the Northeastern Region. Regional winners can enter on the national level. There are 33 different categories that members can enter. This doesn’t mean that there will be projects entered in every category. Conal explains, “For the most part, awards are sectioned out by the cost of the project. An example could be kitchens over $150,000.”
The awards are judged by professionals in some aspect of the home remodeling industry. Conal says, “We get judges that are within the trade, so it could be a remodeler, it could be an architect, or it could be an interior designer, but it's always somebody in the construction trade. And we always get a judge that is not a member of our local chapter.”
“The judges,” Conal says, “review the projects anonymously, in other words, when a member of ours enters a project they will be disqualified if their company logo is on anything that they enter. It's got to be completely anonymous. That way the judges have no idea who's who.” The judges score the projects and whoever has the highest score above a threshold number wins a CoTY award. “I've never seen somebody not score—not hit that threshold,” Conal says.
Bucks -Mont NARI’s 2022 CoTY Award ceremony was held on January 21 and it was hosted by HGTV/ DIY Network Host Jeff Devlin, whose show Stone House Revival films Jeff and his team restoring historic houses in and around Buck’s County.
The Awards event is special and included are a dinner, presentations and announcement of winners. Conal calls it “a laid back environment.” And says “We try to make it fun.”
NARI defines itself as a “… medium for business development, a platform for advocacy and the principal source for industry intelligence ... NARI connects homeowners with its professional members and provides guidance so that consumers have a positive remodeling experience with a professional, qualified remodeler.” Its statement of purpose is simple, “Nari’s Core Purpose is to advance and promote the remodeling industry’s professionalism, product and vital public purpose.”
Bill Billingham of Billingham Built, a certified master remodeler, has been a NARI member in the Bucks-Mont chapter for over 30 years. He views being a NARI certified contractor as a plus for him and for his clients. According to Bill, NARI’s objective is primarily educational. He says, “They want to educate contractors to be professional in their business dealings and in their trade experiences. And so, to do that, they have certification programs.” These programs and the courses necessary to get them, teach NARI members, ethics, skill improvement and even things as basic as keeping the work environment clean.
NARI certification programs are for its members. “The primary one for remodelers is Certified Remodeler, and then if you've been a certified remodeler for ten years or more, you can become a Master Certified Remodeler,” Bill explains.
Bill Billingham likes the interaction he has with other NARI members and considers it the major benefit of membership. “If I have questions, one of the great benefits to me is whenever I had an issue on a job, someone I knew in NARI had the same problem before, and they could tell me what they did about it and how they handled the issue.”
To learn more about NARI, visit www.NARI.org and https://nariofbucks-mont.wildapricot.org.
Bob Waite is the editor of Bucks County Magazine.
NARI AWARD WINNERS
1. Rolf Schroeder General Contractors, Inc.
Entire House Over $1,000,000.
2. CHR Home Services, Inc.
Residential Bath $25,000 to $50,000.
3. Gehman Design Remodeling
Residential Bath 50,001 - 75,000.
4. Heacock Builders Inc.
Residential Bath $75,001 to $100,000.
5. Brett King Builder Contractor, Inc.
Residential Bath Over $100,000.
6. LBK Design Build
Residential Kitchen $60,001 to $100,000.
7. Brett King Builder Contractor, Inc.
Residential Kitchen $100,001 to $150,000.
8. Harth Builders Inc.
Residential Kitchen Over $150,000
9. LBK Design Build
Residential Interior Under $100,000.
10 LBK Design Build
Residential Interior $100,000 - $250,000.
11. Harth Builders
Residential Interior $250-001 - $500,000.
12. Heacock Builders Inc.
Residential Addition over $250,000.
13 Heacock Builders Inc.
Residential Detached Structure
14. Rolf Schroeder General Contractors, Inc.
Residential Landscape - Outdoor Living $100,000 to $250,00.
15. CHR Home Services, Inc.
- Residental Interiors
CALENDAR
ANTIQUES
Golden Nugget Antique and Flea Market
Ongoing: The Golden Nugget offers authentic antiques, collectibles, art, and interesting items. Over 60 indoor shops and 200 outside dealers. Free parking. 1850 River Road, Lambertville, NJ. 609397-0811; www.gnflea.com.
Pook & Pook, Inc.
April 12: Online Only: Coins & Jewelry
May 4-5: America & International 463 East Lancaster Avenue, Downingtown, PA. 610-269-4040; www.pookandpook.com.
Rago Arts
March 22: Jewelry Unlimited
March 23: Art & Design (Live Online)
March 29: 20I21 Art
March 30: Design 333 North Main Street, Lambertville, NJ. 609-397-9374; www.ragoarts.com.
The Philadelphia Antiques & Art Show
April 28-April 30: This show offers diverse furnishings and decorative arts for both the period and modern American home. Admission. The Navy Yard, 11th Street and Kittyhawk Avenue, Philadelphia, PA. www.thephiladelphiashow.com.
Renningers
April 1: Flash Train Meet
April 8: Spring Craft and Vendor Show
April 28-29: Kutztown Antique & Collectors Extravaganza Admission. Rain or shine. 740 Noble Street, Kutztown, PA. 570-385-0104; www.renningers.net.
ART
Canal Frame-Crafts Gallery
Ongoing: A full-services gallery and frame
SpringFest, April 22& 23 at Peddlers Village
What to do in Bucks County
shop, Canal Frame features both originals and prints. Many quality local artists are represented. 1093 General Greene Road, Washington Crossing, PA. 215-493-3660; www.canalframe.com.
Gratz Gallery & Conservation
Studio
Ongoing: A full-service fine art investment firm specializing in 19th-and 20th-century American paintings. There is an emphasis on the Pennsylvania Impressionists, the Philadelphia Ten, and artists from the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. 5230 Silo Hill Road, Doylestown, PA. 215-348-2500; www.gratzgallery.com.
Lachman Gallery
Ongoing: Bucks County Artist Al Lachman is known for his colorful paintings of American barns and landscapes. 44 Peddler’s Village Road, Lahaska, PA. 215-794-5500; www.allachman.com.
The Silverman Gallery of Bucks County Impressionist Art
Ongoing: This gallery features artists that continue the Bucks County Impressionist tradition. Buckingham Green Shopping Center, 4920 York Road (Route 202), Holicong, PA. 215-794-4300; www.silvermangallery.com.
Philadelphia Museum of Art
Ongoing: Celebrating the Brandywine Workshop
Ongoing: House of Photographs: The Kasakoff-Adams Collection
Through April 23: Rhythms of Nature: The Art & Design of Drift
Through May 29: Isaac Julien: Lina Bo Bardi-A Marvelous Entanglement 2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, PA. 215-763-8100; www.philamuseum.org.
Princeton University Art Museum
Ongoing: Traveling Object Lessons in American Art: Selections from the
Princeton Art Museum
Through May 7: You Belong Here: Place, People, and Purpose in Latinx Photography
Through July 9: Cycle of Creativity: Alison Saar and the Toni Morrison Papers Princeton University campus, Princeton, NJ. 609-258-3788; www.princetonartmuseum.org.
The James A. Michener Art Museum
Through April 23: Wale Oyejide:Flight of the Dreamer
Through July 30: Mid-Century to Manga:The Modern Japanese Print in America
April 5-Sepemter 24: Alan Goldstein: Elemental
May 13-November 5: Sarah Kaizar:Rare Air 138 South Pine Street, Doylestown, PA. 215-340-9800; www.michenermuseum.org.
Forever Young, April 19-23 at Bristol Riverside Theatre
A gallery wide show featuring the beauty of the season in oil, pastel, and watercolor by award-winnning nationally recognized artists. The verdant beauty of spring in bucolic landscape and the delicacy of Spring blooms in lovely floral still life will be featured.
June 3 - July 2: Dorothy Hoeschen
Dorothy Hoeschen is a nationally recognized, award-winning artist who paints in oil, watercolor, pastel and acrylic. Her subject matter includes local landscapes of farms and forrests, brooks, streams and waterfalls as well as paintings of her travels. 47 West State Street, Doylestown, PA. 215-348-1728; www.patriciahuttongalleries.com.
Grounds for Sculpture
April 23-January 7: Spiral Q: The Parade
April 23-Jauary 7: Local Voices: Memories, Stories, and Portraits
May 10: Atelier class: Resin Casting-Two Part Mold making
June 24: Atelier Class: Found ObjectsPainting Inspired by Seward Johnson 80 Sculptures Way, Hamilton, NJ. 609586-0616; www.groundsforsculpture.org.
Phillips’ Mill Community Association
April 2-21: Photographic Exhibition
April 23-30: Not-Your-Run-Of-The-Mill Photo Show,
May 17-20: “Now That’s Funny,” Spring Musical Comedy Cabaret 2619 River Road, New Hope, PA; 215-862-0582.
CRAFTS
Glenside Arts Festival
April 22: Now in its 7th year, the festival includes fine art and crafts, entertainment, food trucks, and wine, cider and
craft beer tastings. Downtown Glenside is located near Easton Road & Glenside Avenue near the Glenside Train Station and is easily accessible by car, bus, or train. 215-843-4462; www.renaissancecraftables.com.
Quakertown Farmers Market
May 6: Quakertown Farmers Market
Spring Craft Show
Join us for another amazing craft show at the Quakertown Farmers Market. 85+ Vendors with handmade items and original artwork. All in the North Lot across from the Garden Center. 201 Station Road, Quakertown, PA; www.quakertownfarmersmkt.com.
Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsmen
May 12-14: Rittenhouse Fine Craft Spring
June 24-25: Fine Craft Fair -Summer Ludwig’s Corner Admission. 717-431-8706; www.pacrafts.org.
9th Street Philadelphia’s Italian Market
May 20-21: Bring the entire family and enjoy all the Festival Events, including
Gemmi
Live Musical Entertainment, Arts and Crafts, Half Ball Tournament, Grease Pole Contest, The Traditional Procession of Saints, and all the delicious Food. 919 S. 9th Street, Philadelphia PA 19147; https://www.italianmarketfestival.com.
ENTERTAINMENT
The Actors’ NET of Bucks County
Through March 26: The Dover Road
April 21-May 7: The Half-Life of Marie Curie
June 9-25: The Merry Wives of Windsor
The Heritage Center Theatre, 635 North Delmorr Avenue, Morrisville, PA. 215295-3694; www.actorsnetbucks.org.
Bristol Riverside Theatre
March 21-April 16: Cabaret
May 16-June 4: Chicken and Biscuits 120 Radcliffe Street, Bristol, PA. 215785-0100; www.brtstage.org.
McCarter Theatre Center
March 25: An Evening with Bruce Hornsby
April 1: Movin and Groovin
April 22: Preservation Hall Jazz Band
May 17: Music from the Sole: Partido
May 18: An Evening with Richard Thompson
May 19: Andy Borowithz: Profiles in Ignorance
91 University Place, Princeton, NJ. 609-258-2787; www.mccarter.org.
Bucks County Playhouse
March 18: Elizabeth Ward Land
April 1: Carter Calvert 70 South Main Street, New Hope, PA. 215-862-2121; www.bcptheater.org.
New Hope Winery
March 24: Kashmir, the Live Led Zeppelin Show
April 15: The Ledbetters
April 21-22: Unforgettable Fire, U2 Tribute
April 28-29: Boathouse Row, The Best of Yacht Rock
May 19-20: Eaglemania
June 2: Classic Stones Live 6123 Lower York Road, New Hope, PA; www.NewHopeWinery.com
LaundRy Room
Newtown Arts Company
April 22-30: The Wedding Singer
June 17-26: Steel Magnolias
Newtown Theatre, 120 North State Street, Newtown, PA. 215-860-7058. www.newtownartscompany.com.
Langhorne Players
April 21-May 6: Callboard Spring Garden Mill, Tyler Park, Route 332, Newtown, PA. 215-860-0818; www.langhorneplayers.org.
Roxey Ballet
April 1 & 12: C-Word
April 14-16: Journey Back to the 80’s April 23: Cinderella’s Royal Tea Party 609-397-7616; www.roxeyballet.org.
The Princeton Festival
June 9-25: Opera singers are poised to inhabit the comic characters of Derrick Wang’s Scalia/Ginsburg and W.A. Mozart’s The Impresario, as well as Benjamin Britten’s full-length opera Albert Herring. Concerts featuring top performers such as Storm Large, the Signum Quartet, and Baroque ensemble The
Sebastians will ensure multiple evenings of first-rate, live music covering a variety of genres of yesterday and today. 609.258.2787 www.princetonsymphony.org/calendar.
June 20: Tuesday Eve Dressage 8934 Easton Road, Revere, PA. 610-8478597; www.buckscountyhorsepark.org.
Willowdale Steeplechase
May 13: The Willowdale Steeplechase has long been a tradition of spectacular horse racing over fences. There will be a full day of activities for the entire family. Reserved parking. Admission. Routes 82 and 926, Kennett Square, PA. 610-444-1582; www.willowdalesteeplechase.org.
Tinicum Park Polo Club
Mid May-October: Enjoy the polo matches at Tinicum Park. Polo matches start at 2 p.m. on Satur-days. Weather permitting. Admission. 961 River Road, Erwinna, PA. 908-996-3321; www.tinicumparkpoloclub.org.
Radnor Hunt Races
May 20: The “Race for Open Space” features exciting races with horses galloping over hurdles and timber fences for sub-
On view / March 4 – July 30, 2023
Celebrating the historical and continued local interest in Japanese and Japanese American printmaking and illustration. The exhibition traces the story of the modern sōsaku-hanga movement and other creative collectibles — from Japan to the United States and beyond.
Okiie Hashimoto (1899-1993), Nishikori Castle, 1956 (Showa Era). Woodblock print on paper, 16 1/8 x 22 inches. Courtesy of the Collection of James A. Michener.
Award Winning Builders and Land Developers
It’s about vision, it’s about passion. It’s about each project we undertake. The careful planning and execution. From choosing the site for a renovation, working with architect or the architectural plans, preparing contracts, the actual construction, it’s a collaborative effort with a commitment to details and fine quality.
stantial purses. Enjoy a tailgate picnic with friends and family. All proceeds from the Radnor Hunt Races benefit the Brandywine Conservancy’s environmental programs. Advanced admission. Reserved parking. 610-388-8383; www.radnorhuntraces.org.
Devon Horse Show and Country Fair
May 25-June 4: Come to the oldest and largest outdoor multi-breed competition in the United States. Along with equestrian events, the country fair promises to provide fun for all. Admission. Devon, PA. 610-688-2554; www.devonhorseshow.net.
EVENTS
Peddlers Village
March 17-19: Celebrate the Green April 22-23: Spring Fun Festival
Through April 23: Peeps in the Village
May 6-7: Strawberry Month
June 3-4: Sand Sculptures in the Village Routes 202 and 263, Lahaska, PA. 215-
794-4000; www.peddlersvillage.com
Bristol Borough
April 16; Sunday Stroll
Join us for our version of Bristol Borough Sunday Stroll.. Enjoy the vendors, food,, kids activities, live music and more.. 1 Mill Street, Bristol, PA.
American Consumer Shows
April 22-23: Philadelphia Home Show
April 23: Pennsylvania Bridal & Wedding Expo 888-433-3976; www.acsshows.com.
Shadfest
April 29-30: Celebrate the annual shad run. There will be over 80 artists and crafters, along with live music, family fun, and food. Rain or shine. No admission fee. Lambertville, NJ. www.shadfest.com.
Quakertown Alive!
July 10: Garden Affairs Tour Quakertown, PA. www.quakertownalive.com.
McConkey’s Market
June 10: This unique outdoor market in Washington Crossing Historic Park features vintage items, handmade jewelry, artisan crafts, and salvaged architectural items. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. River Road and Route 532, Washington Crossing, PA. www.mcconkeysmarket.com.
Annual Kutztown Folk Festival
July 1-9 : This event is the oldest folk life festival in America. Celebrating the Pennsylvania Dutch culture, the event features traditional craft demonstrations by juried American craftsmen, the largest quilt sale in the nation, children’s activities, homemade food, historical reenactments, antiques, and live music. Kutztown Fairgrounds, Kutztown, PA. 888-674-6136; www.kutztownfestival.com.
FAMILY
Adventure Aquarium
Ongoing: Come with your family and explore the aquarium, complete with a Kid-
Zone, shark tun-nel, free live shows, a shark tunnel, and Shark Bridge. Admission. 1 Riverside Drive, Camden, NJ. 865-365-3300; www.adventureaquarium.com.
Bucks County Children’s Museum
Ongoing: A fun, interactive, and educational environment for children, parents, and schools, with exhibits that reflect Bucks County’s history and culture. Exhibits include Town Square, Factory Works, Artifact Dig, Covered Bridges, Tree House, and Hot Air Balloon Ride. Activities are planned year round. Admission. 500 Union Square, New Hope, PA. 215-693-1290; www.buckskids.org.
The Crayola Experience
Ongoing: This fun and colorful children’s attraction features interactive Crayola exhibits. 30 Centre Square, Easton, PA. 610-515-8000; www.crayolaexperience.com.
New Hope & Ivyland Railroad
Ongoing: Hourly Excursions 32 West Bridge Street, New Hope, PA.
215-862-2332; www.newhoperailroad.com.
Sesame Place
Ongoing: Visit the nation’s only Sesame Street theme park. There are special events throughout the park season. 100 Sesame Road, Langhorne, PA. 215-702-3566; www.sesameplace.com.
The
Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University
Ongoing: Dioramas
March 25-26: Night in the Museum
April 22-23: Science Storytime
May 28: Black Excellence in Birding Admission. 1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, PA. 215-299-1000; www.ansp.org.
Shady Brook Farm
March-June: This Bucks County farm has lots in store this coming spring. They will be having gardening seminars, Easter events, and seasonal crop related fun. 931 Stony Hill Road, Yardley, PA. 215-9681670; www.shadybrookfarm.com.
Lehigh Valley Zoo
March: Zoo Rendezvous
April 9: Easter Sunday at the Zoo
April 22: Earth Day
May 13: World Migratory Bird Day
May 14: Mother’s Day at the Zoo
May 27: Red, Wine and Blue
May 29: Memorial Day at the Zoo
May 31: World Otter Day
June 8: World Oceans Day
June 18: Hops for Pops
Admission. 5150 Game Preserve Road, Schnecksville, PA. 610-799-4171; www.lvzoo.org.
GARDENS
Bartram’s Garden
Ongoing: Visit this National Historic Landmark and House, circa 1728. The grounds are free and open to the public. Guided tours are available of both the historic garden, as well as the Bartram family home. Don’t miss The Bartram Nursery, complete with native plants and
those discovered by the Bartram family. 54th Street and Lindbergh Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA. 215-729-5281; www.bartramsgarden.org.
Chanticleer
Ongoing: A 35-acre pleasure garden open to the public. The garden is a study of textures and forms, where foliage trumps flowers, the gardeners lead the design, and even the drinking fountains are sculptural. Educational programs are offered year round. 786 Church Road, Wayne, PA. 610-687-4163; www.chanticleergarden.org.
Longwood Gardens
March 23: Floral Spotlight: Illuminated Fountains
Through March 27: Winter Wonder
March 30: The Artist Dives into Archives: Purple Primula
April 2-May1: Spring Blooms
April 14: Trees Living Apart from Humans
May 5-September 25: Spring Blooms Admission. 1001 Longwood Road, Kennett Square, PA. 610-388-1000. www.longwoodgardens.org.
Mt. Cuba Center
April-November: The Mt.Cuba Center is situated on 600 acres. Its woodland wildflower gardens are recognized as the region’s finest. Guided docent tours are available by reservation. Special events are scheduled regularly. Admission. 3120 Barley Mill Road, Hockessin, DE. 302239-4244; www.mtcubacenter.org.
The Morris Arboretum at the University of Pennsylvania Weekends: Garden Highlights Tour
April 9: Spring Buds and Blooms Tour 100 East Northwestern Avenue, Philadelphia, PA. 215-247-5777; www.morrisarboretum.org
Hortulus Farm
May-October: A
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• Available Quick-Tach Loader
• 72 Month 2000 Hour Powertrain Warranty
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It was created by garden and event designer Renny Reynolds and garden writer and author Jack Staub. 60 Thompson Mill Road, Wrightstown, PA. 215-598-0050; https://www.hortulusfarm.com/
April 30: Tyler Formal Gardens April 30, 10:00 a.m. -- 14th Annual Tyler Formal Gardens & Landscape Lecture Topic: The Ultimate Flower Gardener's Guide
Jenny Rose Carey -- a respected author, botanist. educator, and lecturer, currently Fellow in Horticulture at PHS -- is well known for her horticultural expertise. She will propose a comprehensive approach to gardening with flowers based on her upcoming book. A tour of Tyler Formal Gardens will follow. $15 general admission, $10 vets & Bucks Alumni, $5 students with ID Register online at bucks.edu/foundation/events Bucks County Community College main campus, Zlock Performing Arts Center 275 Swamp Road, Newtown, PA.
HISTORY
Historic Craven Hall & The John Fitch Steamboat Museum
Ongoing: House and John Fitch Steamboat Museum Tours
Street and Newtown Roads, Warminster, PA. 215-675-4698; www.craven-hall.org.
Historic Summerseat
Ongoing: First Saturday of every month: The stately Georgian mansion of Summerseat is open to the public from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Free tours also available by appointment. Historic Morrisville Society, Hillcrest & Legion Avenues, Morrisville, PA. www.historicsummerseat.com.
March 20: Book Club: Occupied America: British Military Rule and Experience of Revolution
April 15: Author’s Congress
April 17: Book Club: Betsy Ross and Making of America
June 4: Lecture “Founding Friendship: George Washington, James Madison and Creation of American Republic Washington Crossing, PA. 215-493-4076; www.washingtoncrossingpark.org.
Bristol Cultural & Historical Foundation
March 26: The Lenape Indians in Bucks County
April 30: Annual Tea
321 Cedar Street, Bristol, PA. www.bristolhistory.org.
May-October: Visit this Hunterdon County Museum that has preserved the region’s agricultural history from the 18th through 20th centuries. The site features regular events for the public. Ad-mission. 1605 Route 29, Lambertville, NJ. 609397-2752; www.holcombe-jimison.org.
Ongoing: The Bucks County Conference & Visitors Bureau and the Bucks County Covered Bridge Society present this selfguided tour of Bucks County’s covered bridges. The tour begins at Washington
Crossing Historic Park. The 90-mile tour makes a large circle through Bucks County and is designed so that travelers can start at any one of the bridges. GPS coordinates are given for each of the bridges. Pick up a copy of the brochure Visit the Historic Covered Bridges of Bucks County at locations throughout Bucks County.
www.visitbuckscounty.com; www.buckscountycbs.org.
Bowman’s Hill
Wildflower Preserve
March 25: Knowing Native Plants: Signs of Spring
April 15: Knowing Native Plants: Spring Ephemerals
May 6: Knowing Native Plants: Late Spring Lovelies
May 20: Knowing Native Plants: Flowering Shrubs
June 3: Knowing Native Plants: Focus on Ferns
1635 River Road, New Hope, PA. 215-862-2924; www.bhwp.org.
Bucks County Audubon Society at Honey Hollow
Saturday: Bird Walks
March:2023: Preschool Explorers
April 8: Frog Walk
April 15: Earth Day
April 16, May 21: Guided Forest Therapy 2023 PA. 215-297-5880; www.bcas.org.
170 North Chapman Road, Doylestown, PA. 215-345-7860; www.peacevalleynaturecenter.org.
Bowman’’s Tower
Bucks People /
Chris’s Jeep Joyrides
Chris Marano loves Jeeps and he loves Bucks County, so it is no stretch for him to be in the business of taking people on eye-opening sightseeing Jeep tours throughout the county
Only in a Jeep,” which sang boldly from TV screens in between sitcoms and dramas in the 1980s, was a different way to see the world. It was a life of no limits and countless things the dynamic sport utility vehicle and its owner could do. Every time Chris Marano would drive his Jeep through Bucks County, he wished he could share his only-in-aJeep adventures with non-Jeepers. “The main focus for me was to bring people around the local area so they could see the different parts of Bucks County, like Upper Bucks County, along River Road and the river towns that are there, the canal town up in Uhlerstown. It was a way for them to experience the beauty of the area. That historical part on the end of it was just kind of a little added thing,” Chris, a 23-year resident of Feasterville-Trevose, said. “The Jeep itself, to me, is a great way to get around the area because there are roads, I can drive on that people generally wouldn't drive their cars on.”
Traveling by way of a Jeep is just one of the things that sets Chris’s Bucks County Joyrides, a tourism company he founded in May 2022 where he is also the principal guide and driver, apart from the many other ways to sightsee. For Chris, his Peddler’s Village based business also is about where he takes his group, what historical sites and natural wonders he can share during the 45 minutes to 2 ½ hours they are together, the rapport he builds along the way and the camaraderie he has with other local businesses.
Chris’ pickup/drop-off spot is Mama Hawk's Kitchen & Coffee in Peddler’s Village, where he has been known to sit and chat with his groups before a tour even begins, or from the several inns and bed-and-breakfasts he works with. With its already wellknown attractions, Chris was happy to add one more box to check on the lengthy Peddler’s Village must-see list. He encourages his groups to come early or stay after a tour to enjoy all the village
Photo: Paul Wesley
has to offer but making it his home base had a personal connection too.
“Peddler's Village was a big part of our lives for a long time. We'd go there frequently. My daughter and I would jump in the Jeep, put the top down, head up to Peddler's Village to hang out there for a little bit, maybe get something to eat. Then we would drive toward Upper Black Eddy and get lost driving around, no particular destination,” Chris said of his trips with Samantha, the now-19-year-old daughter he shares with Lisa, his wife of 32 years. “When my daughter and I would go up to Peddler's Village, we used to go to Saxbys to get our hot chocolate. They closed and Mama Hawk's opened in that location. We went in and that's where we started getting our baked treats and our hot chocolates.”
These trips were not only the building blocks of Bucks County Joyrides but also the impetus for discovering the covered bridges, dirt roads, gravel paths and creeks that were eventually woven into its tours.
But then the old stone buildings Chris passed along the way caught his eye, and he started reading up on them. The rest is—literally—history. “That was the final piece of it. It was my daughter and I, driving around, and each little piece getting added over the course of five years, six years,” said the 55-year-old, who painstakingly researches his tour locales via the internet, books that include first-person accounts, tomes dating back to the 1800s and Library of Congress collections, as well as chats with county residents with tales passed from generation to generation. His routes can take in the ErwinStover House and Barn in Upper Black Eddy or the Van Sant Airport in Erwinna along with the back roads of Bucks County. The settings are not only dramatic but dynamic. “There is something different to see in each of the seasons. Come out in the spring, see everything blooming, the warm weather's back, you've been cooped up all winter, let's get out and see something. In the summer, it's let's take a lei-
surely ride with the top down.
The fall's an easy one—let's see all the beautiful colors in Bucks County. The winter is, let's see all the things you couldn't see that the foliage was hiding,” said the Philadelphia native who, as a member of the Jeep Life community, joined a Facebook group where he invited fellow Jeepers to tour Bucks County long before his business opened. “I want you to feel like we're hanging out looking at the area and you're learning something about the area. I don't want it to be like you're in school, and I don't want you to feel like I'm flying by everything and this isn't a lot of fun.”
Chris became enamored with Jeeps as a kid watching World War II footage with his father, who was catching the documentaries for glimpses of airplanes. The craftsmanship of wartime planes, then muscle cars, dazzled Chris, but when he spotted Jeeps bounding through all that grainy footage, his first thought was, “that looks cool.”
The love for planes and autos stuck, but owning an actual Jeep took time. The loss of his father in 2010, followed two years later by the death of a close friend, spurred him to stop dreaming and start doing. His two Jeeps, including the first one he owned, are used in his business — and come with their own identities. “Not everyone does it, but most people in the Jeep Life do name their Jeeps. It's been done for a long time,” Chris, who graduated from The Art Institute of Philadelphia with a degree in multimedia design, said. “I named them because, for my business, I wanted them to have their own characteristics.”
Both Wrangler Unlimiteds, The General is a 2005 two-door named after George Washington, while The Doan Gang is a 2014 four-door. The monikers capture the duality of history, as the two had a clashing relationship during the American Revolution. Washington was, of course, the commander of the Revolution against England. The Doans were from a
Quaker family in Plumstead who became spies for the British, which garnered them the sympathies of fellow Loyalists. Chris admits it’s an interesting choice for a name but he has his reasons. “I named that white Jeep The Doan Gang purposely because it is such a large part of the history here in Bucks County that a lot of people don’t know about. I lived here for years and didn't know about it. I stumbled onto it when I started reading about covered bridges, believe it or not,” Chris, who is a web developer at Artspan in Lambertville, N.J., and had previously done the same at InLiquid/StudioZdesign in Philadelphia for 10 years, said. “I find it fascinating they were such a large part of the history, but so many people don't even know who they are. I wanted to bring that hidden history out more, into the forefront. As far as naming the blue Jeep The General, well, that's referring to Washington. I wanted to balance out the good side-bad side thing.” Chris can picture a future where he devotes his time to showing off Bucks
County only in a Jeep, but for now, his web world and his Bucks County Joyrides have more in common than even he realized. “I hadn't even really thought about it but it makes perfect sense. The whole thing with web design is, you're always seeing the front page and not all the stuff that happens behind it. I live in the world behind it with all the stuff that makes the things work that you see,” Chris Marano said. “As far as the tour business goes, it's sort of like that same thing. I'm working in the back to plan the routes, learn the history, figure out how to market everything and then what you see is ‘Hey, let's jump in the Jeep and drive around and have a good time.’”
For more information on Bucks County Joyrides, visit online at www.buckscountyjoyrides.com or email ridewithus@buckscountyjoyrides.com or call 215-664-7092.v
Cynthia Marone is a freelance writer who lives in Philadelphia.
Intuitive Risk Taker
Tracy is an intuitive painter who plans every move, believes every mark on the canvas is a decision and that it is important for an artist to take risks
Tracy Everly thinks of painting as a language when words fail her. Her art explores the passage of time and the fleeting nature of being human, seeking to capture an experience as it slips away. Her paintings emerge out of many moments layered upon one another which she distills into a simplified form—a kind of poem. “I don’t aim to convey one static point in
time or all that I see in a painting. I want one element of truth, one small but essential thing I want to suggest. She often asks herself, “How little do I need to say what I’m trying to say?”
In a YouTube video, Beyond the Frame: Tracy Everly, Tracy discusses her approach to painting. Photographs of each subject are shown before she magically transforms them into works of
SCIENCE, HISTORY & THE ARTS
Explore exciting exhibitions, see what’s new & soar through the galaxy in the Planetarium.
• Weekday Spring Break Planetarium shows April 11 – 14
• Beyond the Tangible – Non-objective Abstraction from the Collection exhibit on display now through September
• New Jersey Arts Annual: Reemergence exhibit on view through April 30
Admission to the museum is FREE There is a fee for Planetarium shows.
art. “I show the viewer a view in process, happening before their eyes. Light shifts and wind moves in my work.”
Tracy was inspired by New Hope Impressionists but her style is more contemporary. Though her paintings are representational, she reaches into the realm of abstract design in many of her works. Her subjects consist mainly of floral still lifes and landscapes with buildings. The still lifes are painted from direct observation. “Working from life is my favorite way to paint and offers a richer experience,” she said. Many of the flowers she paints are grown in her garden. Her landscapes are created from a combination of observation, drawings and photographs.
The houses in her landscapes appear dreamlike and uninhabited. Their windows peer at us like dark eyes with stories to tell. “The paintings often convey a sense of mystery or ethereal other-worldliness that can be comforting and haunting at the same time,” she said. “Things are rarely fully resolved in my paintings, inviting the viewer to bring their own interpretations and experience.”
She uses broad brush strokes and a variety of tools to achieve her desired effect. Besides brushes, she uses palette knives, squeegees, pottery tools and ink brayers. Kitchen items such as wax paper are used to smooth areas of paint and skewers are used to measure. “I use whatever methods are at my disposal to get the painting to say what I want it to say and nothing is off the table,” she said.
Her expressive style may look spontaneous, but everything is carefully planned. “The way it looks is not the way it was created,” she said. “It might be quite labored.” The amount of planning for each painting varies. Sometimes she’ll do relatively quick blind contour drawings on paper as a warm up.
“I believe there should be a reason for every mark that you make—that it should be to communicate something specific. Every mark is a decision,” she said. “You do have your happy accidents but everything is planned—does this stay, does this
get scraped off? Everything is very carefully thought out.”
She’s largely an intuitive painter, but one who is firmly grounded in skills. “Having a solid understanding of drawing, color, values and composition are prerequisites to painting intuitively. You need to know how to play your instrument before you can improvise,” she said.
Tracy paints in oils with a limited palette consisting of eight colors plus white. Limiting her palette stemmed from years of painting plein air and wanting to keep things simple so she could focus on the harder stuff.
“I often paint in layers—sometimes wet over wet, and sometimes wet over dry. If I paint over a dry painting, I sometimes sand it to join/distress the surface and then paint over it, leaving some of the under layer showing.” We can see this technique applied in As You Seek, the work pictured here.
Her current favorite surface to paint on is oil primed linen mounted to a panel.
She also paints on Ampersand gessobord, a prepared Masonite surface that's relatively slick. Additionally, she uses birch panels that she prepares and gessoes herself and paper that she seals and prepares.
She usually works on two paintings at a time. “They inform one another if I’m having difficulty,” she said. “Whatever I failed to do in one painting will come back to reward me in another,” she said. “They don’t all work out. If there’s enough right in it, I can live with the wrong.” She loves the process of discovery in her art and remains open throughout, focusing on the whole painting experience rather than the parts.
“The two things I care about most when painting are building skills and experiencing joy,” she said. Risk taking is an important part of both. “If I trust the process, it will take me where I want to go,” she said.
In 2019 she participated in a weeklong plein air event in Bucks County. Each artist was expected to finish two paintings
by the end of the week, framed and ready to hang. “I wanted to bring something different to the table,” she said, “something less traditional.” “For the first few days I was so focused on making ‘good paintings’ that I was nearly paralyzed. I tried to play it safe, which was a disaster.”
Frustrated, she returned to a favorite painting spot. “I gave in to risk and told myself that it was okay if the paintings… were not my best work. By the last day, I had found my stride again and painted well enough to win an award …”
Tracy was born in Philadelphia in 1968 and moved to Holland, PA when she was nine. Although she enjoyed the verve of city life, she immediately connected with nature and Bucks County’s open spaces. She started drawing at a young age and at 14 took art classes in Southampton, PA at the Painters Nest.
She attended Council Rock High School (now Council Rock North) and left painting behind for a number of years. Instead, she studied English Literature at
Temple University in Philadelphia where she earned a bachelor’s and master’s degree. After she graduated, she entered the corporate world of marketing and public relations where she worked for ten years. She then became editor of a healthcare publication for another six years.
She returned to painting in her early 20’s fitting it in between work and her personal life on nights, weekends—even during lunch breaks in her car. She used an old cigar box to carry paints with her. In 2019 she left her job to pursue her art full time and hasn’t stopped painting since.
The opportunity to teach arose five years ago when she was asked to lead a workshop in Seattle, WA. Since then, she has taught on line and in person across the U.S. in Glen Arbor, MI and Nashville, TN. Next year she is looking to teach abroad in Italy. “I try to find a balance between teaching and studio time,” she said.
As you might expect of an English major, Tracy is an avid reader. Mostly she reads books on art, such as Carlson’s Guide
In 2019 she left her job to pursue her art full time and hasn’t stopped painting since.
to Landscape Painting and Edgar Payne’s book, Composition of Outdoor Painting “You can’t learn it all,” she said. “I’ll never stop learning. It’s part of what keeps me motivated.”
Some of her favorite artists include Patrick George, Andrew Wyeth and Nicholas De Stael. Tracy is mostly self-taught but has studied with individual artists such as Robert Beck, Jon Redmond, Peter Van Dyck, Stuart Shils and Christopher Gallego. In addition, she took classes at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts in Philadelphia.
Her work has been included in both regional and national exhibitions. In September 2022 her work was shown at the
93rd Juried Art Show at Phillips’ Mill where her painting, Rapture won an award. Her work was also seen in October at the 9th Juried Art Show at Stover Mill, Erwinna, PA. Other awards include an Award of Distinction from the American Impressionist Society and two Bucks County Resident Artist Awards from the Bucks County Plein Air Festivals.
Her work is represented by Morpeth Contemporary in Hopewell, NJ, Edgewater Gallery in Middlebury, VT, and Sugarlift (online at sugarlift.com)). She also posts her paintings on Instagram.
On her website, www.tracyeverly.com, she reflects on her art in The Global Interview/Season 55 “Making art challenges me mentally, physically and spiritually and sometimes pushes me up against my limits. I think of the creative impulse as a living thing that grows and changes in unexpected ways. But that’s also what makes it so rewarding.”v
Michele Malinchak is a freelance writer who has a degree in art and enjoys oil painting.
Don’t just look it up: Princeton and Mercer County Museums make you live it up
Explore a world of refined culture, captivating history and prestigious art at some of the most celebrated museums and under-the-radar destinations beyond your doorstep in Mercer County, New Jersey.
From ancient artifacts to modern masterpieces, the Princeton and Mercer County region is a cultural paradise for museum lovers, history enthusiasts and adventureseekers. Home to more than a dozen museums, there’s always something to inspire every taste and interest.
Breathe in the richness of this exquisite
getaway and satisfy your appetite for beauty and knowledge in a single day or weekend trip right in your backyard.
Start at the Old Barracks Museum in Trenton, where Colonial America comes to life. Constructed to house 300 soldiers during the French and Indian War, this historic building is one of the oldest surviving structures in New Jersey. Today, it serves as a museum, celebrating the state's diverse heritage with interactive exhibits that bring the past to life.
Next, head over to Grounds for Sculpture in Hamilton. This 42-acre park is a true delight
Above top, Old Baricks Museum in Trenton where Colonial America comes to life. Below left, Grounds of Sculpture in Hamilton, NJ, Below right, New Jersey State Museum in Trenton another must-visit attraction for history buffs.
photo: David Michael Howarth
for art lovers and nature enthusiasts, with a breathtaking collection of contemporary outdoor sculptures surrounded by lush greenery. Take a guided tour to learn about the shown masterpieces or stroll through the park and admire the natural surroundings.
Drop by the New Jersey State Museum in Trenton, another must-visit attraction for history buffs. With more than 2 million objects, artifacts and specimens, this museum covers everything from natural history and archaeology to cultural heritage and fine art. Its 140-seat planetarium is also a big draw.
Step back in time in the home of Richard Stockton, one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. After two centuries and eleven families, the Princeton mansion became the residence of Brendan T. Byrne, the last governor to call it home. Take a guided or self-guided tour of the charming house and gardens and immerse yourself in the history and charm of this incredible property.
Don't miss the opportunity to visit Art@Bainbridge on Nassau Street in Princeton. Housed in the magnificent Bainbridge House, one of the few remaining 18th-century structures in downtown Princeton, this gallery is a haven for art lovers. Restored and preserved by a partnership between Princeton University and the Princeton University Art Museum, this historic site is a must-see for anyone who appreciates the arts.
The National Guard Militia Museum of New Jersey in Lawrenceville narrates the rich history of the state's militia and National Guard. From the earliest Dutch, Swedish and British settlements to the struggles of the Revolutionary War, the Civil War, both World Wars and the modern era, this museum explores the diverse and unique experiences of New Jersey's citizen soldiers with the heroic tales of those who served and continue to serve our state.
The Hopewell Museum is home to an exceptional collection, carefully cu-
rated over the years through the work and generosity of Hopewell Valley's citizens. Nearly 13,000 items and artifacts fill the museum, each thoughtfully displayed, identified, and preserved by a team of dedicated volunteers. Their efforts have transformed the Hopewell Museum into an outstanding venue with fascinating treasures.
A visit to a good museum can be a transformative experience, opening your mind to ideas and unlocking the door to a new culture, a piece of ancient history or a style of art. What makes the experience so unique is you don’t have to go far to savor it. Princeton and Mercer County offer a mix of renowned institutions, exciting adventures and lesser-known destinations that create memories that withstand the test of time, much like this storied location itself.
For more information about Princeton and Mercer County go to www.visitprinceton.org.
Yellow Flowers
Yellow flowers light up the landscape with traditional varieties like Black-eyed Susans, Marigolds and daffodils and new varieties such as Bees Knees, Queeny Lemon Peach and Artisan Yellow Ombre
Growing flowers is not only fun and rewarding for us, but it also keeps our pollinator and bird friends fed and happy. Yellow flowers in particular are quite attractive, and light up the landscape. Here are some new and not so new yellow varieties to try.
Tickseed (Coreopsis grandiflora) has narrow, needle-like leaves that give the plant a lacy appearance, and the yellow blooms brighten up any sunny garden from summer to mid-fall. The name “tickseed” comes from the insect-shaped seeds that will attract birds like goldfinches. After the first flush of flowers fades, use a hedge trimmer to cut all the flowers off at once. You may lose a few fresh blooms, but the plant will rebloom in about two weeks. Tickseed is easy to grow in a sunny, well-drained spot. It
does not like to remain wet. It is a short-lived perennial, so let some go to seed or divide every two years to ensure it comes back. Mark its spot in late fall, as it is slow to sprout in spring. The paleyellow flowers of ‘Moonbeam’ or ‘Early Sunrise’ compliment just about everything else in the garden.
Giants for the back of the garden, shorties for the front, or anything in between, there’s a sunflower for any place in your garden or container, and there’s a choice of yellows too, from deep gold to light butter. Sunflowers (Helianthus annuus) grow best when seeds are sown outside after last frost about a quarter inch deep. Although they will eventually recover, they do not like being transplanted. Sunflowers prefer a sunny spot and require little maintenance. Stake tall ones, deadhead multi-stemmed types.
Grow several heights together to screen off an unsightly view. If you want to save seeds to eat, cover the seedheads with cheesecloth, or leave the stalks up for the winter as a freestanding birdfeeder and watch the goldfinches flock. The birds will drop enough seeds to ensure replacement plants for next spring.
Black-eyed Susan, whether the annual Rudbeckia hirta (also called gloriosa daisy) or the perennial Rudbeckia fulgida, is a pretty plant that is covered with golden yellow daisy shaped flowers with a dark brown center. They are long-lasting as cut flowers, attract butterflies from summer into fall, and the seeds attract birds, especially the lovely little goldfinch. Black-eyed Susans grow natively in dry meadows in full sun. Cut off spent flowers to encourage continuous bloom and divide the perennial types every few years. They are great companions with Russian sage, sedum autumn joy and ornamental grasses for an autumn tableau. The annual gloriosa daisy also comes with a red
ring around the black eye, with yellow at the tips of petals. If grown from seed, some of the flowers will be all yellow and some will have the red ring.
Marigolds have been popular over
Marigolds are also great for attracting slugs away from other plants like Hosta. Simply plant them nearby, and the slugs will eat the marigolds instead.
many generations because they are so easy to grow, and especially because they are covered with cheerful flowers all season long. Flowers come in yellow, orange, rust, red, and bi-color, and in sizes from half an inch to three inches in diameter.
Both types of marigolds, Tagetes erecta (African/Mexican) and Tagetes patula (French), are equally at home anywhere a bright splash of color is needed, whether in a container, window box, border, rock garden, or even the vegetable garden where the brightest lemon-yellow flowers will offset the red tomatoes and green basil. Marigolds are also great for attracting slugs away from other plants like Hosta. Simply plant them nearby, and the slugs will eat the marigolds instead. The slug damage won’t be nearly as noticeable on the marigold leaves as it is on the Hosta leaves.
Show off your daffodil collection with forsythia (Forsythia suspensa), a beloved harbinger of spring. Forsythia was named in honor of William Forsyth (1737-1804), a Scottish horticulturalist who brought the shrub from China. A spectacular display of bright yellow flowers open on bare branches in April. It is very adaptable and will grow in sun or light shade to ten feet high and wide. If left untrimmed it forms
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a broad, arched mass of branches, or a perfect yellow meatball if clipped. A hedge of forsythia may be virtually unnoticeable most of the year, but when they are in flower you know it won't be long before warm weather comes. Bring some budding branches inside in March and put the stems in a vase of water. The flowers will open in a few days and give you an even earlier taste of spring.
Here are some new award-winning yellow flowers that we traditionally find in shades of pink:
Petunia hybrida ‘Bee’s Knees’ was an AAS Ornamental Winner for 2022. This yellow petunia was so outstanding and eye-catching in the trials that it is the first
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Commonly known as coneflower, Echinacea hybrida ‘Artisan Yellow Ombre’ is a 2023 AAS Perennial Winner. ‘Artisan Yellow Ombre’ is low maintenance, with no deadheading or staking required, and it provides vivid golden yellow flowers all season long.
petunia to win a gold medal distinction since 1950. Each plant is covered with a colorful show of deep yellow, non-fading flowers all season long. The intense yellow petunia color contrasts beautifully against the deep green leaves. ‘Bee’s Knees’ loves full sun, well-drained soil and slow-release fertilizer to keep it flowering non-stop from summer to frost. The plant mounds and trails to ten inches high and is great in mixed containers, in a hanging basket, or as a lovely groundcover. The judges raved and stated “Yellow color didn’t fade. Plants were a solid mound of yellow blooms all season. No disease, no deer problem, no breakage from the wind. Great plant!”
Zinnia elegans ‘Queeny Lemon
Peach’, another AAS Ornamental Winner for 2022, is an easy-to-grow annual with vigorous, healthy plants covered with lemon yellow flowers with dark peach centers. They are a perfect height to use as cut or dried flowers. As the blooms age, they fade to shades that start as a bright lemon yellow and finish off as a light coral color. ‘Queeny
Lemon Peach’ plants grow to two feet tall and continue to bloom from summer to frost without deadheading. They enjoy a sunny spot in the garden, and they enjoy the summer heat. The judges say, “The lemony-peach blooms with the red-eye were striking. Plants were vigorous and healthy, producing blooms over a long season. This zinnia is a winner. Big healthy plant continued to bloom without deadheading. Unique color. Performed well in
the heat.”
Commonly known as coneflower, Echinacea hybrida ‘Artisan Yellow Ombre’ is a 2023 AAS Perennial Winner. ‘Artisan Yellow Ombre’ is low maintenance, with no deadheading or staking required, and it provides vivid golden yellow flowers all season long. It is just as lovely as a cut flower in the vase. AAS Judges were impressed with the uniform growth habit, vibrantly colored flowers, and multibranched plants that bloom prolifically. Echinacea flowers are magnets for polli-
nators, and the seedheads are magnets for birds. They do best in full sun with well-drained soil. The bushy plants grow two to three feet high and bloom from summer to frost. The judges were enthusiastic, saying, “A very nice yellow Echinacea. Consistently better than comparisons Due to the saturated color of the entry, it deserves an award. Flower color lasted all season.”
Try some of these beautiful, easy to grow plants and enjoy all the different flower shapes and sizes in every shade of yellow from early spring till hard frost.v
Lori Rose, the Midnight Gardener, is a Temple University Certified Master Home Gardener and member of GardenComm: Garden Communicators International. She has gardened since childhood and has been writing about gardening for over twenty years.
At Home
Sonja’s Farmhouse Dream
The owner of Slate Building & Hardscaping Ladislav Kotoulek and his wife
Sonja built a 680 square-foot kitchen addition onto their Tinicum Farmhouse to make Sonja’s farmhouse dream come true
The kitchen is always a cool spot in a home,” says Ladislav Kotoulek. Ask any builder or interior designer and they’ll be in complete agreement. They’ll also tell you it’s probably the best value for home improvement. And ask Ladislav and he’ll tell you that’s exactly why he and his wife Sonja decided to design and build a 680 square foot addition onto their Tinicum home.
Ladislav knows of what he speaks. As owner of Slate Building & Hardscaping, he’s spent the last 15 years remodeling
and building custom kitchens, bathrooms, basements. I’d call him a regional builder, working on homes in the southeastern part of the state as well as down the shore, but his influence comes from far more distant lands.
“My grandfather was in the industry in Europe,’ he says. ‘I always had an urge to do something with homes.’ Ladislav was born in Slovakia, came here, finished school and worked for a couple of builders. So, when he travels back to Europe, he keeps an eye out for interesting architectural touches, which influence
Opposite, Ladislav and Sonja Ladislav in their new kitchen addition that Ladislav built with much input and help from Sonja.The kitchen has a 12foot island and cutting board, white shaker-style cabinets with matte, black hardware and quartz countertops in marbled white/gray. Adding to the clean look is the Viking refrigerator and Wolf Appliances.
his designs. They tend toward classic and timeless. And so, when he moved from Montgomery County to a horse farm in Tinicum, the wheels began to turn.
In the home, he says that the existing kitchen was way too small with ceilings that were way too low. It’s something farmhouse owners are all too familiar with. So, in late ‘21, he purchased the house, and he and his wife began churning around the idea of a kitchen addition. By spring, he had all the permits pulled. And by July, the house was built.
Sonja talks about their dream. “Designing our farmhouse kitchen with my husband and two children was an incredible experience I’ll never forget. I knew I wanted this space to accommodate many. I wanted our children to gravitate to this space to have family dinners and to learn to cook. I wanted my family to wake up to the smell of bacon, farm fresh eggs on the stove, and freshly baked muffins and cookies from the oven. I wanted our friends to fill this space with their laughter
and good humor. I wanted my husband and I to have a quiet dinner together with romantic music playing in the background. I wanted the farmhouse dream.”
They got it. Neutral colors that stand the test of time were chosen. So were white, shaker-style cabinets with matte, black hardware as the anchor for this kitchen. They are topped off with quartz countertops in marbled white/gray for a clean, bright look. A long 12-foot island gives way to a cutting board which provides both practical space for food preparation and adds another wood feature that coordinates with the wood in the floor. The island itself has very clean lines and a massive area for preparing meals or sitting around with some friends, enjoying a favorite beverage, and the view of the farm through the airy windows.
A Viking refrigerator is flanked by other stainless Wolf appliances, including the stove. “I have used both appliance brands as a builder before this selection was made—extremely simple,” according
to Ladislav. “Their resale value, look and high-end quality was a must for this custom kitchen.” Sonja says, Once the kitchen was designed, it was time to hunt for my most favorite kitchen décor,” Sonja adds. “I immediately fell in love with McKenzie Child’s Courtly Check line. Wow, I love how the red pops with the black and white checkered pattern. I never tire of seeing these colors and patterns.” It coordinates nicely with the other red accessories in the room, adding a little pop of color. But perhaps the thing that gives this home an over-the-top ‘wow’ factor is not just the beautiful choices in appointments, but the space itself. Authentic shiplap lines the walls and ceiling, providing even more brightness and an authentic farmhouse feel. “Flat craftsman style crown molding with easy lines adds to the simple yet tasteful look,” Ladislav says. Vaulted ceilings with skylights make the space feel voluminous, while two wooden beams captured from a 1780s Riegelsville barn add interest and a touch of authenticity. All is grounded
by wide-plank hardwood floors that run throughout the home. And the piece de resistance? A gray stacked stone accent on the highest wall. “We believe stone and wood are a must for any farmhouse project.”
The “we” he is referring to would be his three full-time employees responsible for the construction phases, and a team of trusted sub-contractors who make it all come together. “I am super involved in all customer-facing roles, including client meetings, proposals, managing vendors, sales, marketing, and ultimate responsibility for the entire project.”
Being in the industry for over 15 years, Ladislav has a vast understanding of all phases of construction” He says, “It enables us to keep the styles of every home we touch a piece of art.” For this project, he worked with Architect Richard Kapusta. He believes this professional delivers superb products. And that’s important for time and budget, so permit requirements are approved easily. Also, a
large part of the projects was Sonja’s input. Ladislav says she created function, which they had in their previous house before moving to Bucks County.
According to Sonja, “As my husband and I designed this project together, we spent many days and nights, imagining what we wanted. We would bounce ideas off of each other and suddenly better ideas would sprout. For example, the placement and amount of the windows was a must for me. I suppose someone else could have chosen to have filled the walls with cabinets but it was extremely important to me to have all the windows, including the skylights. I wanted to see nature. I wanted to see my horses grazing in the green pastures. I wanted to spy on the deer, fox, hawks, and every wild animal that would make their appearance. I wanted to create the feeling that when you walk into the kitchen, nature jumps out at you. And wow, when you see the morning sun shine through the windows, your soul feels uplifted.”
They kept the integrity of their farmhouse, while integrating a brightness that’s often missing in these older homes. “A key element of the design was bringing as much natural light into the structure as possible,” Ladislav says. “We currently have seven large, single windows with one eight-foot kitchen sink window.” He agrees the skylights usher in sunlight and a view of starry nights. “One hundred percent of the views and orientation of the kitchen addition were carefully considered to have light/sun coming in throughout the day. We see the beautiful sunrise and sunsets right from the kitchen,” he adds, and says a Southeast orientation is key. This makes Ladislav and Sonja’s kitchen full of light, life, and luxury, and that makes it cool indeed. to contact Slate Building & Hardscaping, call 484716-9194 or email slatebuilder@gmail.com.
Chrysa Smith is a contributor to the magazine, with a keen interest in all things home.
Dana and Pattie Christensen
A Forever Home
Dana and Pattie Christensen wanted, not only a house that would fit into and be a part of the beautiful Upper Bucks Landscape, but also a house that would be their “forever home”
By Beth S. Buxbaum
Dana and Pattie Christensen were thinking about the future. While living just minutes away in an historic Bucks County farmhouse, built in 1778, they began envisioning their lives in this house years down the road. The house, sitting on the Delaware River, is wellknown in the area. Pattie and Dana bought this old farmhouse in 2005. The previous owner did some major renovations and had it licensed as a bed & breakfast, which they never opened. As the new owners, they did a lot of work inside and out to add their personal touches. In time they started to reflect on the house’s upkeep down the road. With three floors and many rooms to manage, Dana and Pattie began thinking realistically about their ability to age in this home. Thoughts of selling the house were shared and they casually began to look for land to build their “forever” home.
This project, many years in the making, unfurled with a grand focus. Dana and Pattie wanted to create the penultimate residence satisfying their wants, needs and dreams. With a desire to find that perfect spot to build their next home, they began looking for land several years before even contemplating the project. “We looked for land for three years,” Pattie adds. Then one day, in 2014 everything changed. A swath of land they had admired was on the market. “We actually drove by this property for years,” explains Pattie. They liked the location of this land, on a hilltop overlooking the landscape. One day a plywood sign was on the property announcing, ‘for sale by owner.’ Dana and Pattie were simultaneously surprised and intrigued. Working with their realtor, they negotiated the price. “It was perfect,” adds Dana, “with views all around and neighboring protected farmland, the last plot like it,” he
The crisp, clean lines of the interior living space are on view with a glimpse of the dining area and the kitchen beyond.
A focal point of the living space is the kitchen
Top, an expansive view of the first floor space looking towards the dining area and living room, is a close-up of the kitchen’s center island and cook top. Bottom left, an inviting setting with the spa/pool and views of Rattlesnake Hill in the background. Bottom right, set along the rear deck is an outdoor cooking/dining area with a wood burning fireplace and Kamado grill.
adds. Dana and Pattie bought the property in August of 2014 and sat on it for four years. They used this time to think about their next home, their place to retire.
In January of 2018 they began working on the design with John Jones, a close friend and the principal of John Harrison Jones Architect, an architectural firm based in Memphis TN. “John came to see the land and get a sense of the local architecture,” adds Pattie. After sharing their vision and ideas they worked with John to plan out the design. “We felt it was important that the house take full advantage of the views,” Pattie continues “and fit in with the area’s architecture.” They explained that John’s vision was to have the structure look barn-like to be in harmony with the local building vernacular. He added barn doors to the design on the front of the house to help achieve that barn-like quality.”
For the overall concept of the design, Dana and Pattie were very clear about what they envisioned. “We knew what we wanted and were specific about our needs,” adds Dana, “and we did bubble drawings and a basic layout.” They were both prepared to be personally involved in this project. Dana’s background as a designer was a key factor to bring their vision
Top left, with views of the landscape, the kitchen workspace is set into this windowed wall and beyond is the butler’s pantry, which leads to the outdoor dining area. Top right, filling one kitchen cabinet is an original design of a custom spice cabinet. Bottom, in this view of the butler’s pantry an upper glass-fronted cabinet displays an extensive Belgian beer glass collection.
Above, a cozy setting awaits in the living area embellished with a custom walnut TV cabinet above the European wood burning stove. Behind the sofa is a custom-built audio cabinetry. Bottom, a mudroom functions as a secondary entry and also separates the public and private spaces on the main level. Opposite, an inviting seating area in the living room has a perfect view of the cantilevered deck overlooking views of local farmland.
into the plans. For most of his career he was an exhibit designer, planning and orchestrating corporate events. Pattie’s focus was on managing the finances for the project, as a former financial administrator for a church pension group. Putting into place all the right elements to meet their future lifestyle, and keep within a budget, was their mission.
In 2019, with John Jones’s initial design plans in place, it was time to select the right person to build their home. “After interviewing three or four builders, we felt that J.R. Maxwell Builders, Inc. was the perfect fit for our project,” Pattie adds. The house is completely custom and we needed a builder who could handle a project of this size.” The project started in November 2019 and there was little disruption during COVID, due to the exemplary efforts of J.R. Maxwell. Working closely with Maxwell and his team, they meticulously mapped out the plan. Dana even created a detailed model of the house with all the specifications. “We knew what we wanted and were very specific about our needs,” Dana adds. Now they were ready to begin. They put their current house on the market and it sold in one week. Dana and Pattie lived in an apartment in Hellertown for two years and moved all their belongings into storage while their home was being built. Cradled by the landscape, their new home was set into the slopes of the land, flowing with the natural contours. Dana and Pattie approached this plan with meticulous attention
Top, just off the living area is the LP Lounge, with custom LP shelving and CD cabinets and rolling library ladders. Bottom, in subtle and calming grey tone, is the master bedroom. Opposite, one of three guest rooms on the lower level.
to detail, making sure that the design was exactly what they envisioned. What was paramount was accessing optimal views and access to the outdoor landscape. Designed with walls of windows to capture the panoramic views from every room, the house is filled with natural light while embracing the landscape. With Rattlesnake Hill in view in the back of the house and protected farmland in front, this property was perfect for the home they were planning to build. The design concept features lots of open space with high ceilings, all natural materials and a multitude of floor-to-ceiling windows and doors. “The positioning of the house was centered around a rock in the middle of the field,” says Dana, “and we oriented and aligned the plans with this rock as the center point.” They also had the architect do solar studies to observe how the sun moved around and through the house. After extensive planning, equipped with their studies, models and blueprints, they were ready to build their new home.
Simple lines, with a minimalist touch, the interior living space flows with ease. Primary living space is all on one floor, with a lower level adding guest bedrooms, with some recreational and storage space. Walls were done with nickel gap paneling and the floors are Eu-
ropean white oak in the first floor gathering areas and radiant heated porcelain tile floors in the bathrooms and mudroom. Walls of windows enhance the interior footprint, adding the panoramic views and inviting the open outdoor spaces to become a part of the flow. Without interior walls to divide or define the space, the rhythm of the rooms offers a natural and unencumbered presence. Public spaces cover one end of the home, including the living room area, dining room area and the kitchen and butler’s pantry. At the other end of the footprint is the primary bedroom suite and a rear entry hall.
A focal point of the living space is the kitchen, which is Dana’s domain and a chef’s dream. Designed by Dana, the kitchen is enhanced with features of paramount importance to the chef’s vision. Dana and Pattie love to entertain and host friends and family, so the
kitchen is the gathering spot. One concept in the design of this space is that the center island and cook-top face out, to invite guests to join while he cooks. Dana designed all of the cabinetry and the lighting for the kitchen, as well as in other rooms in the house. As the main cook, Dana wanted very specific features built into the kitchen. One feature was a wood-burning pizza oven. Dana orchestrated the design of all the cabinets and drawers in the kitchen and the butler’s pantry, measuring and drawing all the items to be stored to make sure everything fit. One area of great pride is his custom spice cabinet with easy access and plenty of space for all of his spices. Pattie and Dana conceptualized this space with no upper cabinets. “We did not want anything to block the views,” Pattie explains. This concept of maintaining a clear and open space was carried throughout the floor plan.
Much of the first floor living space has 11-foot coffered ceilings, which helps with the acoustics, except in the kitchen area which has a lower ceiling to create a more intimate ambiance. On the lower level, with the front of the rooms below grade, there are three guest bedrooms with doors to the rear landscape. With all the floors done in a polished concrete, much of the extra spaces on this level are utilitarian in nature. A few smaller informal areas fill this level, in addition to the bedrooms, including a music area and a sitting area. One bonus space is a full-sized garage space they have set up for storage and a workshop.
Complementing the flow and simplicity of the interior design are the furnishings and other accents. With their eclectic taste, Dana and Pat-
tie have co-mingled mid-century modern, antique and family heirloom pieces to accent their living space. “We tend to select things for their uniqueness,” Pattie adds. Several of the custom cabinets, the center island and the fireplace surround are designed and built with Cambria, a manufactured material made in the United States that is hardy and attractive. The clean, sleek lines of this material blend well with the materials used on the muted soft grey-toned walls, as well as the look and feel of the furniture throughout.
With lots of open space, very minimally accented, there are a few notable areas with items from their personal collections. First, housed in a tiny area off of the living room, is Dana’s LP collection. Walls of shelves display Dana’s extensive record album collection in the LP Lounge. Additionally, Dana and Pattie love to
left, another guest bedroom on the lower level of the house that has a door to and a view of the outside landscape. Right, a tiny powder room is tucked into a corner of the first floor adjacent to the butler’s pantry.
travel, and travel frequently to Belgium. They love Belgium beer and have a hefty collection of Belgium beer glasses in glass enclosed cabinets in the butler’s pantry. As a matter of fact, their love for Belgium beer is also evident on the lower level, where they have named each of the guest bedrooms after a favorite Belgium beer. Lastly, on the lower level is a tiny sitting area with cabinets filled with Dana’s cookbook and recipe collection.
With the interior fully appointed to their specifications, the exterior features were just as detailed to satisfy their lifestyle vision. A covered, cantilevered deck offers several spots to sit and enjoy the views,
Complementing the flow and simplicity of the interior design are the furnishings and other accents
from the line of Adirondack chairs along the wall to the sitting area where they can enjoy meals or snacks. “We knew we wanted a water feature,” Pattie adds, “at our last home we had a large pool and spa where we did spend a lot of time.” Off of the deck’s edge is a small 8 by 16-foot spalike heated pool they can enjoy six months out of the year. Completing the exterior appointments, they had the landscape designed and created by Jerry Fritz Landscapes in Ottsville.
Dana and Pattie are fully enjoying their retirement years in their custom home, inside and out. On a breezy spring afternoon, when not in the kitchen preparing one of his specialties, Dana enjoys a relaxing spot on the deck with Pattie, sipping one of their favorite Belgium beers and enjoying the sun setting behind Rattlesnake Hill.
Beth S. Buxbaum is a freelance writer from the Philadelphia area.
J. R. Maxwell Builders
J.R. Maxwell Builders has been serving Bucks County and the surrounding areas with exceptional building and design since 1976. As classic custom craftsmen they have an eye for every detail. Their commitment to excellence is one of the top priorities. With their experienced team of builders, carpenters, electricians and masons they offer unique skills and years of custom-building experience to every project. Each member of their team is passionately committed to their craft. Custom cabinetry is designed, built and installed by their own mill shop, Mink Run Millwork. Whether their team is building an addition, renovation, or completely new home, their clients receive impeccable service. They offer their commitment to the best materials and to providing exceptional quality craftsmanship.
“Between the expertise and quality of J.R. Maxwell Builders and Mink Run Millwork, our clients know and trust that we will plan, build, and transform their spaces to fit their lives. Whether our team is building an addition, renovation, or completely new home, our clients receive impeccable service. We are proud of our commitment to the best materials and providing exceptional quality craftsmanship since 1976.”
Contact J.R. Maxwell Builders for residential or commercial services, custom homes, renovations, additions; as well as Mink Run Millwork for custom and semi-custom millwork needs. J.R. Maxwell builders is located at 1352 Mink Rd, Perkasie, PA. You can call them at 215-345-1953 or visit online at www.jrmaxwellbuilders.com and you can visit Mink Run Millwork at www.minkrunmillwork.com.
Time to Get Outside
BY BOBBY WAITE
After a long winter of being inside it’s time to visit a historic town, go to a festival, take your favorite drive in the countryside, go to a flea market, a car show or just get back to your favorite outdoor activiy. Our regions is beautiful on both sides of the river and each spring we are ready for the season that that leads up to summer so get out there and enjoy it!
Down The Shore
THE JERSEY SHORE OFFERS SAND, SURF & FUN FOR VISITORS
WORLDWIDE, AND BUCKS COUNTIANS ARE GOING DOWN THE SHORE ON VACATIONS TO STAY IN BEACH HOUSE RETREATS, HOTELS, B&BS AND THEIR OWN SUMMER HOMES
By Bob Waite
There were five words that my father would say on a warm Saturday morning that would always make me smile— “We’re going down the shore!” My mother would be wearing her straw beach hat and carrying bags that had towels, suntan lotion, sandals, paper cups, various items of clothing and a pair of sunglasses. We would carry our own buckets, shovels, balls and other beach toys. My father would bring a cooler with ice, sandwiches and treats, and he would bring water, Kool-Aid and a thermos of coffee. We would help load the trunk with folded beach chairs and blankets. And off we
would go—to Beach Haven, Seaside, Point Pleasant, Wildwood, Ocean City or where my grandmother lived—Asbury Park.
What is “down the shore?” The coastline of New Jersey is 141 miles from Perth Amboy to the southern tip of Cape May, and beaches cover 130 miles of the New Jersey Coast —from Sandy Hook to Cape May. It is those beaches and towns on the Atlantic and across the bay that are called the Jersey Shore. It is what makes the appellation “down-the-shore” mean no other place.
And there is no other place like the Jersey Shore. That’s why Bucks Countians travel, stay and play
there. In fact, people from Bucks County are among the many travelers from all over the world that visit the Jersey Shore every year. Many own summer homes and cabins while others stay for short getaways in hotels, resort hotels and rented beach house retreats. Some vacation there every year and others simply go for daytrips.
Down the shore you can stand on a beach early in the morning and see the sun come out of the Atlantic gradually lighting the blue ocean as it brings jetties out of the shadows. And if you stay long enough, the sun will be shining in full force bringing its devotees out with their body boards, beach chairs, blankets and umbrellas. If you turn from the ocean, you will see the boardwalk or large, beautiful beach houses with gardens full of flowers. And if you venture off the beach, past the boardwalk and beach houses, you will more than likely be on
the main street of a New Jersey beach town. There you will see stores for souvenirs, beach supplies, fishing equipment, art, hi-end clothing, little breakfast nooks and fine restaurants. And if you are where the island is narrow, you can look down side streets and see the marinas on the bay.
Down the shore you can walk on the boardwalk at night and ride a beautifully lit up Ferris wheel or sit by and have a slice of pizza or a foot-long hot dog. You can smile as you see children begging their parents to go on a ride or buy them a hermit crab. On the boardwalk you can eat, people watch, shop, be pushed in a rolling chair, stop in a beach bar for a cocktail or a beer or you can simply walk and listen to the sound of the sea.
The thing that makes this 130 mile stretch of the New Jersey beaches so special is the diversity you will find as you visit different towns and beaches.
The beaches have different kinds of sand, ranging from very fine and white to coarse and beige. Some towns have boardwalks and others do not. Some boardwalks are packed with amusements, while others offer a quiet walk by the beach. Some of the streets are lined with night clubs and brand name stores, while others are lined with gorgeous summer homes.
BEACH TOWNS SOUTH TO NORTH—A SAMPLING
Cape May
Cape May suffered two devastating fires in in 1869 and 1878, which burned much of the city. The replacement homes were all built in the Victorian style, which has become the trademark style of the city. Many of these Victorian homes were converted into bed & breakfasts.
Victorian B&Bs at Cape May are upscale accommodations that are generally open year-round. These colorful remnants of an older more refined era offer romantic getaways for couples, havens for people living a fast-paced life and are perfect spots to celebrate an anniversary.
Cape May has a two-mile promenade, which once was a boardwalk but a storm in 1962 destroyed it and now it is paved. The promenade runs parallel to the beach and offers fantastic views of the Atlantic Ocean. There are a few arcades, candy shops and ice cream stands on this picturesque walkway. Shopping and dining in Cape May attracts visitors’
year-long. Restaurants range from hot dog stands to world-class oceanfront dining. On the beaches at Cape May you can swim, skim board, surf, fish, play volleyball, have a picnic and build sandcastles.
Stone Harbor
Stone Harbor with its clapboard storefronts in muted pastel shades quietly says you are at the South Jersey shore. It shares an island and 7-mile beach with the town of Avalon. Stone Harbor is quiet and the lifeguard protected beaches are not crowded, and the
sand is white and clean. In fact its sandy beaches and gentle surf keeps loyal visitors coming back year after year. Water activities include surfing, kayaking and sailing. Stone Harbor beaches are also great spots for weddings, some hosted by The Reeds at Shelter Haven, a boutique hotel and spa on 3rd Ave. Stone Harbor is also known for its fine restaurants, an outstanding shopping district that has a relaxed atmosphere. Places to visit include the Wetlands Institute and The Stone Harbor Bird Sanctuary, which has the only heronry sponsored by a municipality in the United States. Niche reports, “Stone Harbor is in
From Spring Lake to Cape May the Jersey Shore is 141 mile-long coastline filled with amazing sandy beaches, boardwalks and quaint towns offering great places to visit and stay as well as some the best real estate with great views of the bay and ocean front.
If you’re up early you can see a parade of bikes on the boardwalk in Ocean City where they allow bike riding between 5am and 12 noon between June 16th and September 4th.
Cape May County and is one of the best places to live in New Jersey. Living in Stone Harbor offers residents a sparse suburban feel and most residents own their homes. In Stone Harbor there are a lot of bars, restaurants, and coffee shops.”
Avalon
The affluent town of Avalon offers a unique charm that you won't find anywhere else.
Avalon has been a popular vacation destination for beach lovers everywhere. It is located on a 7-Mile Beach and it shares the island with Stone Harbor. The white fluffy sand of its beaches, make real estate by the ocean highly coveted. Between the Avalon and Stone harbor are some of the most beautiful and palatial beach homes in New Jersey.
Activities on Avalon include boating, sailing, wave running, kayaking, paddle boarding, water skiing, wakeboarding, fishing, surfing and swimming in the ocean and back bays. Both shopping and
nightlife can be found on the island. There are more than 30 restaurants in Avalon to choose from and there are many nighttime hot spots, from acoustic singers to popular bands, places to dance the night away and smaller venues to sit and chat with friends.
Wildwood
Not too far north of Cape May are the Wildwoods, that include the city of Wildwood, North Wildwood and Wildwood Crest. The Wildwoods, share a beach that runs the length of the fivemile island. Wildwood has a boardwalk that according to Wildwoodnj.com has “... 38 blocks packed end to end with shops, waterparks, eateries, entertainment and amusement piers with over 100 rides and attractions.” And there are three amusement piers and three wet ‘n wild waterparks.
Wildwood, sometimes referred to as the doo wop capital of America became nationally known when teenage idol Bobby Rydell recoded Wildwood Days in
1963. In Wildwood is a mural of Bobby Rydell and plans are in the works to for a statue to honor his contribution to this seaside city. Wildwood Days is played on boardwalk speakers several times, just about every day.
Sea Isle City
Sea Isle City has five miles of beaches that are picturesque, well-maintained and among the highest-rated in the Garden State. It also has a promenade that is ideal for bicycling, jogging or simply strolling along with a loved one. In addition to offering breath-taking views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Promenade also features gift shops, eateries, arcades and boutiques. Sea Isle hosts one of the largest Polar Bear Plunges on the East Coast. Thousands of residents and visitors come back each February for a weekend of fun family events that includes a parade, a walk and run, a block party and a dip in the Atlantic Ocean. Sea Isle is also known for its
outdoor activities that include fishing, sailing, surfing and paddling.
Ocean City
Ocean City is often called America's Greatest Family Resort. Ocean City is proud of “... eight miles of pristine beaches, more than two miles of exciting boardwalk and its wholesome family atmosphere.” It is located at the northern part of Cape May County and is not far from Atlantic City. It’s beaches are clean and the boardwalk was named Best in New Jersey by NJ Monthly Magazine in 2022. It is also a dry beach—meaning that alcoholic beverages cannot be sold there, but right across the bridge, on the mainland are plenty of liquor stores bars, and restaurants.
Atlantic City
Atlantic City’s four-mile boardwalk is the longest in New Jersey and one of the most exciting. The sweet aroma of boardwalk food, the stores, the hawkers, the casinos, the jitneys moving down the middle of the boardwalk, the rolling chairs being pushed by entrepreneurial operators, and the casinos make the boardwalk an exciting experience.
Nightlife is king in Atlantic City with its ten casinos, each having their own venues for concerts and comedic performances. There are clubs galore. Tropicana, for example has six nightclubs and several bars. Then, of course, there gambling all night every night. Restaurants are plentiful and include boardwalk cafes, causal, family friendly, fine dining. Salt Water Taffy was invented in Atlantic City and can be bought in candy and ice cream stores on the boardwalk.
Brigantine
The City of Brigantine was recently featured on Travelmag.com as one of “The 12 Most Charming Small Towns in New Jersey.” It is also one of the few places in
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“Hop on the tiki for a back bay cruise - morning, day, or night! You can relax with friends and family while listening to music, enjoying your favorite drinks, and surrounding yourself with breathtaking views. Make it a date night - a cruise for two! Or join us for a bachelorette or bachelor party. We offer it all at Cruisin’ Tikis.”
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Sea Isle City and Margate Locations 1-609-263-3800 cruisintikissouthjersey.com
THE JERSEY SHORE
KATORA REALTY
A Bradley Beach Real Estate Agency
Katora Realty is a boutique agency located in the heart of Bradley Beach on the Jersey Shore! Our goal is to make your home buying and selling process as streamlined as possible. With over 20 years of real estate experience, it is our pleasure to serve you.
We are a full service real estate agency. If you’re looking to buy, sell, or rent along the Jersey Shore, our team can help you! Your satisfaction is our top priority.
CONTACT KATORA YIM, OWNER AT 732-693-4545 OR KATORA@KATORAREALTY.COM
New Jersey where you can enjoy a genuine all natural beach. It bills itself on Brigantinebeachguide.com as “... one of the most peaceful cities in south New Jersey, Brigantine is the ideal place for anyone looking to get away from the stresses of daily life. With miles of pristine coastline, soft white sands, and an active and friendly local community, you’ll never run out of things to do in Brigantine, NJ.”
Boating is popular in Brigantine and you are invited to cruise around the waters or fish and crab or just float along and chill. For visitors there several fishing boat charters available across the island.
Long Beach Island
Long Beach Island is 18 miles long and has 22 towns, if you include those which are a part of Long Beach Island Township.
We have a wealth of experience in the vacation rental market and have been helping families with their Cape May vacations for years now. We will help you find that perfect home near the water, in town or beach front. Let us find quickly find your perfect getaway within your budget. Your Cape May Experts!
JERSEY CAPE REALTY RENTAL TEAM
739 Washington Street Cape May, NJ 08204
609-884-5800
rentals@jerseycaperealty.com
The municipalities at LBI are Barnegat Light, Beach Haven, Harvey Cedars, Long Beach Island Township, Ship Bottom and Surf City. Long Beach Island has many summer homes, cabins and cottages and people come to visit all its towns. It is one of New Jersey’s favorite resort towns.
All the towns on this island have beautiful, well-kept beaches. The Barnegat Lighthouse in Barnegat Light, at the northern tip of the island has a museum and the lighthouse itself is open to visitors who have enough wind to climb the swirling staircase to the top. Once at the top, though, the climber is rewarded with a beautiful view of the island, ocean and bay.
At the southern end of the island is Beach Haven and according to Niche is “... one of the best places to live in New Jersey. Living in Beach Haven offers residents a sparse suburban feel and most residents own their homes ...”
For visitors, Beach Haven has great beaches for swimming and other water-
sports. It is not only a great town to live in but also a great place for a family vacation. For the kids there is Fantasy Island Amusement Park which has 18 rides, games, an arcade, food, a classic carousel, and private parties. Thundering Surf Waterpark in Beach Haven is the longest continually operating waterpark in the world.
Forked River
On the mainland, Forked River is considered a great place to retire. Niche states, “Living in Forked River offers residents a rural feel and most residents own their homes. Many retirees live in Forked River.” There are several retirement communities in Forked River and its advantages are its proximity to the Ocean County beaches and it friendly residents.
Seaside Heights
Seaside’s boardwalk is one of New
Ann, Olivia, Shannon, Diana, & Lauren
THE JERSEY SHORE
NEW CONSTRUCTION
New Construction Homes Starting at 749K just steps from the beach that can be rented out for the summer to pay all annual costs. Rentals also available for all size families.
Contact Mike Loundy | 732-330-6651 Direct Mikeloundy@aol.com | www.MikeLoundy.com
Jersey’s most popular tourist attractions. Food is everywhere in breakfast cafes, pizza stands, bars and grills, candy stores, ice cream stands, and other venues—selling cheese steaks, hot dogs, sausage sandwiches, foot-long hot dogs, cotton candy, salt water taffy, and everything you would expect to find on an amusement oriented boardwalk. And there are rides, amusements, massage studios, jewelry stores, arcades and fun—the boardwalk is always jumping. It is aways full of people having a good time. During the day, laying on a beach for a couple of hours in the piercing sun, the boardwalk is a short walk to grab water or another hydrating drink.
“Jersey Shore,” a reality tv show that ran on MTV followed the lives of eight housemates at a vacation home in Seaside Heights. And besides the controversy about the cast not really living in Seaside, the show was big success and ran for six seasons, four of them at Seaside Heights.
Point Pleasant Beach
Point Pleasant is a favorite beach town for families and is very child friendly, with rides, arcades, Jenkinson’s Aquarium, a sweet shop and lots of food on the boardwalk—perhaps the largest sausage sandwiches with peppers and onions. The beach itself is clean and the ocean is delightfully blue. Jetties jut into the water and are fun to walk on but getting too close to the edge, can be dangerous. People fish off the jetties and there are ample opportunities get a charter boat fish on a party boat.
Point Pleasant Beach has a thriving art scene and is known for fine restaurants specializing in seafood. The so-called Frank Sinatra house that used to play Frank Sinatra music to passersby on the boardwalk is up for sale, so it is not known whether it will be playing the Chairman of the Board’s songs this season. Have to wait
and see.
Spring Lake
Spring Lake, often referred as “the jewel of the Jersey Shore.” became a getaway for New York and Philadelphia high society during the gilded age of the late 19th and early 20th century, and it still maintains its elegance. The boardwalk in Spring Lake is totally non-commercial, and in fact, it is the longest of its kind at the New Jersey Shore. The bed & breakfasts, stately inns and homes still speak to the elegance of another age.
Spring Lake is also known for fine and casual dining, cozy cafes, coffee, and delicious bakeries. Shopping can keep you occupied by visiting boutiques, jewelry stores, candy stores, a bookstore and art galleries. VisitSpringLake.com states, “Downtown is a short tree-lined walk from
THE JERSEY SHORE
Come by Car or Boat !
Broker/Owner
Dockside Dining with Tiki Bar
With quality food, professional service, and a beautiful dining setting, Captain’s Inn Restaurant offers the best dining experience in Forked River. We are rated one of New Jersey's Top 25 waterfront restaurants, and we know that you will love every moment of your unique dining experience at Captain's Inn Restaurant.
304 E. Lacey Rd. | Forked River, NJ 609.693.3351 / Captainsinnnj.com
Specializing in Sales & Rentals in Point Pleasant, Bay Head, Mantaloking, Normandy Beach, Silver Beach, Chadwick Beach, Ocean Beach, Lavallette, Ortley Beach, Seaside Heights, Seaside Park and every little beach in between.
Welcome to the Jersey Shore Bucks County! My name is Scott Atkins, and I am a lifelong resident of the Jersey Shore. As a full-time agent, I am focused, determined, and dedicated to making your needs my number one priority. My goal is to find you the perfect home that meets all your must-haves without compromising on your needs. One of my specialties is my extensive knowledge of the flood-prone areas in all the Shore towns. I am unmatched in my expertise in the waterfront areas, as I make it a point to drive and study those roads every day. As a buyer's agent, I will go above and beyond to preview homes, send you videos and pictures (including both the good and bad aspects) so that you have a clear understanding of the entire area and the property. You can trust me, Scott Atkins, to guide you through the buying or selling process with ease and confidence. Cell: 908-884-3356 • Office: 732-295-8600 satkins@dianeturton.com 2204 Bridge St., • Pt. Pleasant,NJ • dianeturton.com
Scott Atkins
Patricia C. Hallock
Bucks County’s Town & Country Real Estate
Are Current Trends Affecting Us?
Regardless of the state and national trends in home sales, our market is still a burgeoning seller’s market in which we need the help of professional realtors more than ever to buy or sell homes
by Sedia Wyatte
Bucks County real estate is still in a burgeoning seller’s market, even though some national and state trends may catch up and change the trends here. That houses are still selling practically overnight is being reported by a number of realtors in Bucks County and prices continue to climb. The number of
homes for sale in Bucks County has gone up from January 2022 to January 2023 but pent up demand has changed the length of time a house is on the market. According to realestate.com, “On average, homes in Bucks County, PA sell after 68 days on the market. The trend for median days on market in Bucks County, PA has gone up since last month, and slightly up since last year.”
The question is, will this softening trend of low inventories continue into the this year or will it change. This no one knows and although there are many opinions, there is no question that several national trends are affecting the real estate market, and it is getting more difficult to predict the best situations for home sellers and buyers.
Interest rates on mortgages are rising. This means that a home that is mortgaged costs more to prospective buyers. This trend is affecting statewide and nationwide sales. Mortgages on January 7, 2021 were at an all-time low of 2.65% and on June 23 had, after a steady climb reached 5.81% leveling off during the second quarter of this year to an average of 5.7%. Now interest rates are averaging 7.38% for a 30 year fixed period and 6.472% for a 15 year fixed mortgage. Predictions vary as to whether they will decrease or increase. This is believed to be causing a change in buyer expectations that could reduce demand. The problem is that no one really knows what will happen.
So, what does this all mean for selling or buying a home in Bucks County and surrounding areas? One thing it definitely means is national trends can and probably will have an effect on first time buyers. The higher price of a new home coupled with high interest rates make it more expensive for a first-time buyer who has no house to sell. Having low interest mortgages was a big incentive for first time homebuyers. But the rates are still low. According to Motley Fool’s website www.fool.com, “Chances are, interest rates won't stay put at multi-decade lows for much
longer. That's why taking action today is crucial, whether you're wanting to refinance and cut your mortgage payment or you're ready to pull the trigger on a new home purchase.”
For those selling a home in Bucks County, it is still a very good time to sell. And buying a home is the best alternative to renting. The cost of renting a home is continually rising. Younger families are not getting the same tax advantages as homeowners, and they have no accumulation of equity. This is why statistics from the National Association of Realtors show that first-time buyers made up 33% of all home buyers. And although downsizing has been a buzzword for the last decade, 12% of home buyers purchased a multi-generational home, to take care of aging parents or to provide space for children over the age of 18 who are moving back home with their parents.
The market is changing and it is still complicated for sellers getting the best price and for buyers finding what they need. It is vitally important that sellers and buyers use real estate professionals rather than act as their own agents. The Pennsylvania Realtors Association explains that buyers need a professional realtor because “They understand their local markets and can negotiate on the buyer’s behalf, which is especially beneficial in competitive markets.” As for sellers, “They help navigate the complex home selling process and have the experience to effectively prepare, position and price a home for sale.”
Wyatte is a freelance writer from Bristol, PA.
Being in the top 6% of all BHHS Realtors® nationwide is an achievement that I owe to all of my fabulous clients! Thank you for another outstanding sales year.
Sedia
Meg Roth
Kimberly Weinhold
Linda Strasburg
Linda Kilroy
Chris Stevens
Todd McCarty
Janice Iaquinto Melanie Rush
Lynne Benson
Heather Walton
Jo-Anne Atwell
Vikki Zebro
Marie Kovach
SHERRY W. JONES has received consistent recognition as a TopProducer in both international rankings and Central Bucks County. She has extensive knowledge of the Buckingham and surrounding areas and understands our local market conditions. Having relocated her family across the country in 1999, Sherry has personal experience dealing with the challenges sometimes associated with a move. She is familiar with the public school systems and raised three children in the Central Bucks School District. By realizing how important it is to focus on the needs of her clients and always keep herself accessible, Sherry alleviates many of the frustrations encountered during the process of buying or selling your home. For 20 years Sherry has continued to accumulate numerous awards; but more importantly, she continues to accumulate life-long customers. Integrity, Dedication and Experience WORKING FOR YOU!
the soothing ocean waves and non-commercial boardwalk, charming B&Bs and hotels, and an enchanting park surrounding a spring-fed lake.”
Belmar
Belmar has a reputation for being a great place to rent a cabin and take a vacation. The wide beaches are perfect for sunbathing, surfing, swimming, and fishing. And the boardwalk is scenic. Once known as a party town, Belmar is now more of a family town. Belmar also hosts lots annual events on the beach such as volleyball tournaments, a triathlon, free movies on the beach and the annual New Jersey Sandcastle Contest.
spired gifts.” In the downtown area of the city are fine restaurants and upscale boutiques. Art is everywhere and there are several boutique hotels.
Bradley Beach
Downtown Belmar offers numerous culinary options, including authentic Mexican, Cajun, Italian and old-fashioned American fare and many restaurants offer sidewalk tables.
In the warm months there is always something going on downtown.
Asbury Park
After a period of decline in tourism, Asbury Park embarked on a restoration program in 2007 that revamped this star among New Jersey seaside resorts. The Paramount Theatre and Convention Hall were restored and so was the waterfront. Now Asbury Park is a major destination for Bucks Countians. On the boardwalk craft shops, eateries, fancy boutiques, nightlife, and lot of music make it a fun place to go. VisitNJ.org states, “The boardwalk has a mix of fine restaurants where you can sample a wide variety of cuisine, including Korean fusion tacos, oysters, sausages, ice cream and Italian ice. It also boasts a surf and swimwear shop, handcrafted and organic goods, vintage-in-
Asbury Park beaches are great for bathing, surfing and fishing. The beach is wide and convenient to the boardwalk. During the summer they are packed with sunbathers and swimmers so it is a good policy to arrive early for a dip.
Ocean Grove
Ocean Grove is only one square mile in area, yet it has the largest assemblage of Victorian architecture in the country. It began as a Methodist camp meeting town and is still owned by the camp meeting association and leased to individual homeowners and businesses. Ocean Grove remains the longest-active camp meeting site in the United States. And in addition to a long standing Christian tradition, it is one of the Jersey Shore’s finest yearround seashore destinations. Attractions include an old-fashioned boardwalk, hotels, eateries and a very well-kept beach.
Bradley Beach is known for its gorgeous beaches and small boardwalk. The boardwalk is small, just under a mile long, but it is still a great place to take a stroll along the water. There's a mini-golf course right off the boardwalk as well. The town is considered a suburb of New York and Niche says, “Living in Bradley Beach offers residents an urban suburban mix feel...” It gets an “A” in nightlife by Niche. It is also considered a great place to retire.
Sandy Hook
Sandy Hook is in the Monmouth County Borough of Highlands. It is a 2,044-acre barrier peninsula that is part of the Gateway National Recreation Area. Sandy Hook has sand dunes, salt and freshwater marshes, a bird sanctuary, trails for walking and biking, and near the tip of the peninsula is the oldest working lighthouse in the United States. There is also Fort Hancock and the Sandy Hook Proving Grounds.
Bob Waite is the editor of Bucks County Magazine.
Getaway / Bob & Tanya Waite
Just Next Door
When Tanya and I visited Bethlehem for two days, we found that there is so much to do in the Lehigh Valley that we need to call on our next door neighbor regularly and become good friends
Going to the Lehigh Valley, particularly Bethlehem, is a treat for us, especially since it is so close and yet we have hardly spent much time there. We are ready to go. It is raining. Tanya is happy anyway, she is humming and finishing her packing and I am brooding. I don’t like driving in the rain, but then the rain seems to be slowing down and it’s not a long trip. The Lehigh Valley is Bucks County’s next door neighbor.
Our destination is the Sayre Mansion, which is in the historic Fountain Hill district of Bethlehem, known in the 19th Century and early 20th century
Opposite top, offering a 180-degree bird’s-eye view of Bethlehem, the Conservatory is the most unique room in the Sayre Mansion. Opposite bottom, Bob & Tanya are standing in the Virtual Balloon Ride at National Museum of Industrial History. Top, people playing the slot machines at Wind Creek Bethlehem Casino. Bottom left, the Main Street Star. Bottom right, exterior view of the Sayre Mansion during the early evening.
for being where the industrialists and other affluent people resided. The mansion, now a bed and breakfast, was the home of Robert Heysham Sayre, an industrialist who was the chief engineer of the Bethlehem Railroad and the founder of Bethlehem Iron Works, which eventually became Bethlehem Steel Company. The mansion itself, which Robert Sayre had built in 1858, was built in the Gothic Revival style—a favorite of eastern industrialists during the Gilded Age.
When we arrive at Sayre Mansion Tanya is ready to walk around the lobby and dining area to take photos, but it is crowded. Tanya says, “Bob are all these people staying here?” I shrug, saying, “Don’t know.” But I am as surprised as my wife, and don’t expect to see people laughing, talking and having a good time in a bed & breakfast on a Thursday afternoon. So, I ask the young man at the desk, and he explains that it is an afternoon tea, something that Sayre Mansion does on Thursdays for guests and people who live in the community. The tea, which includes lots of goodies, costs only $35 and it gives its participants a glimpse into the lifestyle lived by high society during the late 19th century.
We go to our room, which is actually a two-room suite. Tanya is taking photos before I can hang my coat. The suite, called The Library, was once part of Robert Sayre’s library. The suite has a large bedroom and a separate sitting room. The sitting room has retained the original vaulted ceiling and chandelier, and it has two floorto-ceiling bookshelves and an electric fireplace surrounded in marble. Also, there is comfortable period furniture and cable television. In the bedroom is a king bed, dresser with mirror, armchair, cable TV, and a high-backed red loveseat.
Discover Lehigh Valley gave us an itinerary to help guide us while visiting the area. As we settle into our two-room suite, we see that we have reservations for dinner for 5:30 at the Apollo Grill on 85 W. Broad Street. It is now only 3:15, so we decide to luxuriate in
bedroom,
tv and enjoying candies and wine, courtesy of Discover Lehigh Valley.
It’s 5 o’clock and we head for the car. I ask Tanya, “Where is the Bentley and our chauffeur?” Tanya smiles and says, “Guess you’ll have to drive.” So, the rich industrialist fantasy fades and I open the door to our Nissan Altima and off we go.
The Apollo Grill has both indoor and outdoor dining. Seated are couples, groups of friends and families. Soft music is playing in the background and paintings by local artists adorn the walls. In fact, art by talented local artists is rotated around the 20-seat bar and on the walls of the 100-seat dining room every three months.
The menu at Apollo Grill accommodates everyone. As it says on their website, “We have something for everyone, whether you are looking for a filet mignon and a great bottle of wine or a burger paired with a unique craft brew!” The menu cannot be defined within the confines of current classifications. It is American, both traditional and New American and tavern food, but there are also Italian foods and other European and Mediterranean foods on the menu. There are nine salad choices, appetizers galore (25 listed). The list of appetizers include such intriguing offerings as Black & Blue Tenderloin, Lobster Ravioli, Tuna Tartare along with standbys like Oysters on a Half Shell and Shrimp Cocktail.
After being seated by our host, water is brought and we each order a drink. Our server is especially helpful. She answers all our questions about the food, and even tells us much about the history and what a great place it is to work—so much so that people stay there for years, even decades. I can see they work hard but also that they work as a team.
After getting our drinks, we look at the menu for an appetizer. We both know what we want and decide to share a Shrimp Cocktail. The shrimp are big and cold and the siracha cocktail sauce is delectable.
For her entree Tanya orders the Pan Seared Salmon and I order Beef Short
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Hanging on Hope
Ribs. The Pan Seared Salmon comes with soy roasted boy chow, pickled mushrooms, cilantro jasmine rice and honey garlic drizzle. The Beef Short Ribs come with cauliflower grits, mushroom gravy with roasted shallots and green beans.
Tanya is pleased because the Salmon is cooked perfectly—moist but done. The cilantro jasmine rice and soy roasted boy chow complements the honey and garlic drizzle to make it a perfect culinary experience. The Beef Short Ribs are so tender, they fall off the fork. And I couldn’t get enough of the cauliflower grits—something I never ate before and hope to have again.
After leaving Apollo Grill we decide to go to Wind Creek Bethlehem Casino. We want to see how big it is and how it compares to other casinos that we visited. It is big and there are plenty of slots, tables and all that you would expect from a casino. Not too much into gaming, we nonetheless play the slots with a predesignated amount of money to use on what are called “penny slots.” We choose to take $50 out of an ATM and each take $25 to spend on the one-arm bandits. As luck would have it, Tanya leaves with $60 and I leave with nothing, but as a couple we are ahead by ten bucks. So we leave after playing for an hour—two high rollers vowing to come again and break the bank.
Back at Sayre Mansion, we comfortably lay in bed watching a movie. I think about how ironic it is that we are staying in a 19th century library, watching television. What’s nice though is that coffee is available in the lobby all night and so are snacks. I bring back some cookies and a couple cups of coffee. We snack and eventually drift off to sleep.
We wake in time for breakfast but have to hurry because we have an appointment for a guided tour of the National Museum of Industrial History. So we get dressed and head down to the breakfast room. Here we see a buffet consisting of fresh fruit and home-baked muffins, breads, or pastries and we can order various breakfast entrees. We see people eating
Toast, but
we realize with sadness that we simply do not have time for a feast. So, we fill our plates with muffins and fruit, get coffee and juice and are delightfully satisfied.
Going back to our room, we grab our coats and go. I am excited to see the National Museum of Industrial History, which is actually an affiliate of the Smithsonian. We have an appointment with Museum Historian Mike Piersa who is going to give us a guided tour of the museum.
Mike doesn’t hesitate to give a detailed history lesson and tour from the minute we meet him at the door. He is friendly and so well-versed in industrial history that it rolls off his lips with no effort at all. He begins to show us presses, pumps and railroad tracks in the entranceway/gift shop area. We are already overwhelmed by the little bit of bygone technology he introduces us to at the beginning of the tour.
Then before seeing the main museum, we are taken outside to see a breathtaking accomplishment—a giant hydraulic bending press that was moved into the yard surrounding the museum. The press itself was built in 1890 and was used until around 1995. It weighs 900,000 pounds and when in operation can exert 2000 pounds per square inch of hydraulic pressure. Mike did the math for us. “So you take 2000 square pounds per one square inch, and you multiply it by the surface area of those cylinders and you get 7,000 tons.” Mike also explained, “So what's amazing about this piece is it is actually the second press that they used in the process. There was one twice this size that did the rough forging, but the pieces came out a little bit wobbly. So this was actually the press that would straighten them.”
Inside the museum we view the permanent exhibits. We see beautiful lathes, as aesthetically pleasing as they were precise. The fine craftsmanship showed not only the skill of their makers but also the longevity of the these marvelous machines. Pumps and steam driven machines with large flywheels were also on exhibit. We are shown exhibits about steam powered boats, emerging and rapidly changing
Frenchtown NJ
The beginning of the Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park is here. The towpath meanders south from Frenchtown for a bit before it hits the canal itself. From here, bicyclists can pedal along the Delaware River all the way to Trenton. Frenchtown is also a great strolling and shopping town, with numerous small charming boutiques. The town’s three big festivals – Wine and Art in May, Bastille Day in July and RiverFest in September – are a cool way to check out all the local offerings. Visit Frenchtown this spring and enjoy shopping and dining along the Delaware River. It’s just across the Uhlerstown - Frenchtown bridge from Bucks County.
Bucks County Weddings
Wedding Celebrations
Lumberville 1740 House Country Inn
Along the Delaware River in the quaint village of Lumberville you will find the historic Lumberville 1740 House Country Inn. Originally a working farm in the 1700s, it was later purchased by Harry Nessler in 1968 and turned into a motor lodge, with rooms having views of the river and the Lumberville-Raven Rock Pedestrian Bridge. In 2010, new owners Joe Luccaro, owner of HollyHedge Estate, and his partner Dr. Neil Cohen purchased the 1740 House. The partners have restored and preserved the lengthy two-story inn—and established the 1740 Club on site at the Inn. The private Club is open to members only five days a week for private, riverfront dining and cocktails. But, can also be made available for private functions like bridal showers and rehearsal dinners to non-members.
According to General Manager Tim Luccaro, the 1740 House is ideal for small intimate parties, particularly riverfront rehearsal dinners. “We have recently overhauled our menu, partnering with great local purveyors like Shady Fox Farms in Solebury, to create some amazing catering menus under Executive Chef John McGrath. The biggest draw of the property, though, continues to be the gorgeous views of the Delaware River from throughout the dining room, bar and patio areas.
While the 1740 House has a limited capacity, in the winter (the maximum party size outdoors is 32 people), when we can make use of the patio and outside area, it can go up to as many as 65 people for a cocktail style event. We think the space and staff offer a really exceptional Bucks County experience for small private events,” Luccaro says
The 1740 House is a sister property of HollyHedge Estate. Meaning the wedding coordinators at HollyHedge work with the 1740 House to plan all rehearsal dinners and private events. The 1740 House has its own catering staff, and executive chef John McGrath has overseen the recent menu updates. Both properties offer wedding packages that include the cake, ceremony, reception, flowers, and linens.
Bridal showers and rehearsal dinners at the 1740 House are currently booking four months to a year out, according to Luccaro. Brides and grooms can get a tour of the historic country inn by appointment only. The 1740 House also offers 24 guest rooms with full-service breakfast for its guests. Lumberville 1740 House Country Inn is located at 3690 River Road in Lumberville, PA. Their phone number is 215-297-5661. For more information, you can visit www.1740house.com or like them on Facebook.
Holly Hedge Estate Bed & Breakfast
Built in the 1780s and originally part of the William Penn land grant, HollyHedge Estate is situated on 21 bucolic acres just north of downtown New Hope. The estate’s rustic charm has become a premier Bucks County wedding destination.
According to General Manager Tim Luccaro, his family has been committed to preserving the elegance and natural beauty of their 18th-century farm and estate since taking over in 1994. “We are really proud of our historic and environmental stewardship at the estate. We really believe that we are responsible for mitigating the ecological impact of our weddings, and ensuring that the rich history of the property is preserved for future generations,” Luccaro says. His family has refurbished many of the historic buildings, restored the estate’s architectural features, and rejuvenated its land. They have a number of acres of land that were put under cultivation to grow various items that they can use in the preparation of food for weddings and their inn guests. “We are taking farm-to-table and sustainability to a new level. Really striving to be an industry leader in corporate responsibility. The food we can’t grow on site, we try to obtain from local sources,” Luccaro says.
The estate has several areas of interest for brides and grooms to utilize during their weddings. There is a classic fieldstone bank barn, which is popular for wedding ceremonies and cocktail hours. “The Old Barn’s” original construction highlights exposed fieldstone and wood beams with
massive vaulted ceilings. Adjacent to it is a classic English garden. On the property there also are two small ornamental ponds, seasonal gardens, wildflower preserves and various historic outbuildings that offer unique backdrops for wedding pictures. A newer pole barn was constructed for receptions in 2002. This space has all of the modern amenities needed for a celebration. The estate’s original manor house has 15 guest rooms. Inn guests are invited to enjoy a full-service breakfast on weekends from Chef Krystal Weaver.
HollyHedge Estate has garnered numerous awards over the years including annual Couple’s Choice Awards from Wedding Wire and The Knot. They were recently inducted into The Knot Hall of Fame. The estate can host up to 200 guests for a wedding. Couples have access to their full-time onsite wedding planners. All of the catering at HollyHedge Estate is done in-house. Executive Chef Jose Calderon and Sous Chef David Fry offer a large menu characterized as Nouveau American cuisine with French, Asian, and Spanish influences. Pastry Chef Janine Harrison does all of the baking on site as well. There are several wedding packages as well as completely customizable options.
You can contact the wedding coordinators at HollyHedge Estate today to reserve your wedding date or schedule a tour by appointment only. The historic venue is located at 6987 Upper York Road in New Hope, PA. Their phone number is 215-862-3136. For more information, see them on Facebook or visit www.hollyhedge.com.
FThe Reeds at Shelter Haven
or those couples seeking a destination wedding experience without the need to renew passports and manage international travel arrangements, The Reeds at Shelter Haven offers an unparalleled waterfront backdrop. Offering everything you need to host your special day within the quaint seaside community’s hospitality corner at 96th & 3rd, it is no surprise that The Reeds is ranked a Knot Best of Wedding Venue. From the intimate and unique bayfront settings featuring the simple elegance of chic coastal design to the team of experienced planners, culinary creatives, and wedding coordinators, the luxurious guestrooms, suites, and amenities, understand elegance is the cornerstone of every aspect of South Jersey’s most sought-after wedding destination.
Begin your most special day primping & popping champagne with your closest family and friends in the private Bridal Studio at Salt Spa, with professional hair styling and make-up application by the experts. Then, when the big moment finally arrives, tie the knot at a bayside or seaside ceremony, the details of which our team of coordinators will help you arrange to eliminate any pre-wedding worries. As the stunning natural landscape of Stone Harbor sets the stage for your debut as a married couple, the anticipation will build for your open-air cocktail reception on The Reeds sundeck as you view the sunset dipping below the horizon of the Shelter Haven Basin. Guests can mix and mingle as they enjoy your signature cocktail along with stationed and butlers hors d’oeuvres, a perfect time for you to sneak away for a few moments of solitude together, and to capture sunset portraits on the docks.
As cocktail hour winds down, make your grand debut in the indoor-outdoor, open-concept Sweet Grass Ballroom, spacious enough to accommodate dinner and dancing for up to 220 guests. During your plated dinner, indulge in a delicious meal crafted with locally sourced ingredients, then make your day your own with stationed displays of favorite desserts, such as the 96th Street Display, stocked with Jersey shore staples like saltwater taffy and caramel corn to compliment your custom cake, crafted by The Reeds’ inhouse Pastry Team. End the evening dancing and drinking cordials under the stars before retreating to your luxurious
suite for a restful night’s sleep on a plush throne of triplesheeted Egyptian cotton sheets by Frette as newlyweds.
And, for those who wish to celebrate all weekend long, The Reeds offers a diverse collection of customizable event spaces designed for Rehearsal Dinners, After-Parties, and Post-Wedding Brunches, establishing an all-encompassing setting in which to embark on a lifetime of your own traditions and memories.
Visit reedsatshelterhaven.com or call (609) 368-0100 for additional details, availability, and package inclusions. A Refined Hospitality Property.
Photo: MLE Pictures
Lake House Inn
Located on scenic Lake Nockamixon is a Bucks County premiere waterfront wedding venue, The Lake House Inn. Honored with the AIA Award for Excellence in Architecture and Design, The Lake House Inn features a spa-like decor. Its rustic chic architecture and design can be the contemporary backdrop for your special day.
Owner Glenn Stevens describes some wedding day highlights at The Lake House Inn. The wedding day begins with the ladies dressing and toasting in the terraced bridal suite. Meanwhile, the gentlemen are enjoying their own private billiard lounge. The stage for the ceremony is an award-winning terraced landscape leading to gardens and overlooking the lake. A massive indoor and outdoor cocktail area welcomes the guests following the ceremony. During the cocktail hour, your guests are invited to enjoy a wine tasting guided by the on-site sommelier. Then it is off to the brand new 5,000-square-foot Boathouse Ballroom, complete with its 1,000-square-foot lake-
front terrace, 27-foot draped ceilings, lit copper bar, and contemporary Murano glass chandeliers. An exposed stone wall and stunning water vistas provide a memorable setting for both dining and dancing. After the reception, the overnight guests can retreat to an after party at the fire pit and billiard lounge for drinks and gourmet bites until the wee hours.
There are 14 luxuriously appointed guest rooms to sleep up to 40 family members. And, there are 2 rental houses for additional guests to stay overnight. Nearby hotels are located 20 minutes away for reception guests. A deluxe Continental breakfast is served to your overnight guests in the morning.
The Lake House Inn is a full-service, all-inclusive venue for a dream wedding. You can work with their bridal planner to create a package, excluding music, photography, and flowers. The Lake House Inn is located at 1100 Old Bethlehem Road in Perkasie, PA. Their phone number is 215-258-2556. You can visit them online at www.thelhi.com or like them on Facebook.
River House at Odette’s
The edgy yet elegant new venue that rivals most luxurious wedding destinations across both city and countryside settings, The River House at Odette’s creates an unparalleled luxury lifestyle experience like no other.
As you embark on your bold beginning at River House, say “I do,” in the romantic riverfront ceremony garden overlooking the historic Delaware River amidst the seasonal foliage of quaint New Hope, PA. Following your nuptials, join family and friends in a highly stylized cocktail space featuring plush, curated furnishings, bold murals, layered antique architectural elements, and floor to ceiling glass doors spanning the space that offer breathtaking river views and breezes for cocktail hour.
Then flow into the open-concept ballroom that is romantically spirited with dreamlike sophistication, complete with whimsical fixtures, flowing fabrics, and elegant custom wall coverings featuring embedded musical scores and love letters inspired from the properties’ renowned predecessor’s, Chez Odette’s past. Here, your guests can enjoy regionally sourced, farm-to-table cuisine prepared by our expert culinary team, and signature cocktails featuring both
locally produced and internationally acclaimed spirits, beers, and wine. As dining winds down and the party heats up on the dance floor, the ballroom leads out to a covered veranda where you can cool down with refreshing river breezes.
When the evening’s celebrations are through, the couple of honor and your guests can retreat to the reverie of your residentially inspired guestrooms and suites. Complete with beautiful views of the Delaware River and Lambertville skyline, high-end amenities including triple-sheeted Egyptian cotton Frette sheets, bold floral murals & tufted leather headboards, and spa-worthy on-suites with seamless glass showers, deluge rain showerheads, and Malin + Goetz bath products in a highly stylized, urban-inspired space. River House guestrooms are an ideal place to rest your head and allow the natural landscape to soothe you to sleep. Offering a variety of delectable on-site dining options, the River House experience is unlike that of any wedding and events destinations you’ve seen before.
A lifetime of tradition starts with your bold beginning at River House. Visit riverhousenewhope.com or call 215- 6822022 for additional details, availability, and package inclusions. A Refined Hospitality Property.
Photo:
Toni Marie Photography
The Woolverton Inn
Called by Fodor’s “One of the loveliest settings in the valley… romantic and secluded,”
The Woolverton Inn is an ideal country setting for elopements, micro-weddings, and large-scale outdoor weddings for up to 200 guests. This secluded Inn near Lambertville, New Jersey and New Hope, PA, perched high above the Delaware River, sits on ten acres of bucolic Hunterdon County landscape and is surrounded by 300 acres of preserved rolling farmland and forest. A 1792 stone manor, the Inn is elegant and relaxed, allowing you to feel like you are at your own home in the country.
Elopements and small weddings are offered Sunday—Thursday, for 3-4 hours, including time for photos, ceremony and a champagne toast. Large-scale weddings require a full rental of the inn’s 14 guest rooms, providing the opportunity to extend your wedding experience before and after the event. If you wish, you may have your wedding ceremony on the Inn’s grounds in the beautiful horseshoe garden, with a lovely arbor perfect for an outdoor wedding ceremony. An outdoor cocktail hour follows the ceremony, before gathering in a stunning platform tent for a catered dinner and dancing. Your wedding ceremony, cocktail hour and reception will be planned as a six -hour affair.
The Woolverton Inn is the ideal location for a romantic proposal, and disguising your proposal behind another occasion, such as a weekend getaway, or birthday leaves it a surprise. Take a trip to the country and get out of town for the weekend or any day of the week.
Whether it is an elopement, a micro wedding, or a larger affair, the Woolverton Inn is uniquely suited to delivering warm, welcoming and romantic ambiance. Have your ceremony in the Parlor of the 1792 Stone Manor House, on the covered porch overlooking the Great Lawn, in the Horseshoe Garden surrounded by abundant flowers or on the wishbone bridge entrance to a historic stone barn, with acres of farmland as the background vista.
The Woolverton Inn is also the perfect place to begin your first days as a married couple. You’ll find luxurious private cottages, nearby fabulous dining and entertainment, lots to see and do, and exceptional, welcoming hospitality. It is the ideal place for your honeymoon or mini moon.
Bring your wedding party to the Woolverton Inn and enjoy the delicious gourmet breakfast, the bucolic surrounding and luxuriously appointed country guest rooms. See why it is listed in 1000 Places to See Before You Die in the USA and Canada.
The Woolverton Inn is located at 6 Woolverton Rd., Stockton, New Jersey Bring your wedding party to the Woolverton Inn and enjoy the delicious gourmet breakfast, the bucolic surrounding and luxuriously appointed country guest rooms. See why it is listed in 1000 Places to See Before You Die in the USA and Canada.
The Woolverton Inn is located at 6 Woolverton Rd., Stockton, New Jersey 08559. For more information, call 609-397-0802 or visit www.woolvertoninn.com.
Makefield Highlands
Steeped in history dating back to the original Penn Grant of 1718, the property now offers modern elegance in a lush outdoor setting with endless natural beauty. Step back in time as you drive down the sweeping entrance past The Manor House.
This stone estate, built in 1766, is one of many picture perfect settings on the pristine grounds ideal for photographs. The garden paths, stately tree lines, and beautiful vistas make this the perfect wedding site.
The Manor tent complex will comfortably accommodate up to 200 of your guests, with French doors, and floor to ceiling windows for amazing sunset views. Enjoy cocktails overlooking the lush, rolling
Y18th green and fairway in the shadow of the Silo Bar. Preserving the feel of the original farm is important to us; the granite and stone features of the Manor’s Silo Bar, which is built into the original grain storage silo, typifies this. This area is also one of the ideal locations for on-site ceremonies.
Exchange your vows under the majestic pines or next to the garden pergola with many options showcasing the property’s endless natural beauty.
The Manor at Makefield Highlands is located at 1418 Woodside Road, Yardley, PA. For more information call 267-321-7000 or visit www.makefield highlandsgolf.com.
Overlook at Five Ponds
our fairytale ending starts here. We can accommodate your day from a Micro Wedding all the way up to 175 guests. We have our beautiful ballroom indoors in addition to our whimsical tent positioned overlooking the beautiful views of our golf course. We offer many different options and backgrounds for your special day. Want the best of both worlds? Host your ceremony under the trees overlooking the golf course and come inside for dinner and dancing! We have you covered from the Rehearsal to the Wedding and the post wedding brunch. Our property offers
hundreds of locations for photos to capture your special day. Our Event Coordinator has 6+ years of experience coordinating weddings & events all over. She will work with you every step of the way to give you the best experience from the time you choose us all the way through your big day. Leave the stress at the door and let our event staff assist you in floor plans,
The Overlook at Five Ponds is located at 1225 West Street Road, Warminster, PA. For more information please contact us at 215-956-9727 or visit www.5pondsgc.com.
PineCrest Country Club
PineCrest Country Club is where your wedding dreams become reality. Celebrate your marriage in an elegant and sophisticated country club setting with beautiful scenic golf course views, exclusively yours. Where the grandeur and splendor of your day flourish, moment by cherished moment Nothing less will do.
PineCrest welcomes all of our guests, friends, and family with exceptional hospitality and thoughtful attention to your social distancing needs. Whether you are looking for an intimate, small outdoor wedding ceremony and reception, private party room with luxurious décor, or a customizable reception hall space—PineCrest hosts weddings of all sizes. Our LGBT-friendly wedding venue offers perfect event spaces for inclusive ceremonies, and
our Ballroom is an excellent choice for traditional and contemporary Indian weddings. Enjoy our private bridal suite as well as an event supervisor who is focused on you and you alone.
PineCrest Country Club in Lansdale, PA is nestled in the heart of Montgomery County near King of Prussia and Plymouth Meeting, just a short drive from Doylestown, PA and Bucks County. Come see everything PineCrest has to offer! Take a tour of our romantic deck, envision the perfect photo under the exquisite chandelier in our foyer, and discover where you’ll have your first dance in the middle of the Veranda.
The PineCrest Country Club is located at 101 Country Club Drive, Lansdale, PA. Call 215-918-8410 or visit pcrestcc.com..
Historic Doylestown Inn
If the words historic, unique, creative, boutique and personal come to mind as you search for your perfect wedding venue, you have come to the right place!
Here at The Historic Doylestown Inn and The Hattery Restaurant, each wedding is a celebration from start to finish. Our gorgeous historic venue combines fullservice amenities, a dedicated and attentive staff and fantastic food to make each and every wedding a most momentous event. Whether your guest list is fifteen or one hundred and fifty, we will meet every expectation and make you glad you said yes to The Doylestown Inn!
There are many reasons to choose The Historic Doylestown Inn right in the heart of the cultural center of Bucks County.
Lower Cost: Today’s weddings can dwarf the down deposit on your first home or even exceed your college loans. But couples are savvy. They know what they want, and they don’t want to break the bank doing it. Here at The Doylestown Inn, we can offer you that boutique wedding for exceptional value without sacrificing all those special touches, with packages for every size and budget.
Unique: Aside from the cost, celebrations at “wedding venues” can often be formulaic, with a laundry list of rules and a standard protocol. If you’re hosting here
with us, you have the flexibility to tailor your wedding celebration and make it unique, just like you! It can be formal or casual. You can go traditional, employ a theme, or create a celebration that’s completely your own. You can honor family traditions or create new ones. Whatever you choose, it’s all about you from beginning to end.
Location: Finally, hosting your wedding at an all-inclusive venue, in a picturesque historic location like Doylestown in Bucks County, offers many of the same perks as a destination wedding without the extensive travel expenses. From check in to check out, our wedding couples and their guests enjoy comfortable and wellappointed guestrooms, including a bridal suite, a full-service restaurant, banquet services and a staff that aims to meet every expectation. You’ll feel like family because that’s what you become, when you host here with us!
The Doylestown Inn is a charming, 17 guestroom boutique hotel located at 18 W. State Street in the heart of historic Doylestown, Pennsylvania. In addition to the beautifully appointed guestrooms, the inn features The Hattery Stove & Still, a cutting-edge restaurant and bar with an “antique industrial” design that offers a modern-American tavern menu seven days a week. Call 215-345-6610 or visit us at www.hatterydoylestown.
Wedding & Engagement Rings—Custom & Stock
Michael’s Jewelers is Bucks County’s premier destination for all your bridal needs.Their experienced staff will make this an easy and enjoyable experience. For engagement rings and wedding bands they have the area’s largest selection with top brands like Coast, Sylvie, Noam Carver, and Artcarved Bridal.
All their engagement rings are custom made. You get to hand select your center stone in either natural or lab grown certified diamonds. Michael’s builds the ring around your center stone so that there are no compromises, and you get a one-of-a-kind ring.
If you have a specific design in mind or do not see the exact setting that you are looking for, Michael’s Jewelers can create the perfect ring with their custom design. Michael’s uses state of the art CAD (computer aided design) software so you can see exactly how the ring is going to look from all angles. Once the CAD is approved, they can always have a wax mold sent in to view so you can see the ring in person.
If you are looking for a wedding band now is the perfect time with Michael’s Jewelers’ annual wedding band sale from April 1st through April 29th.Take 25 % off all in stock wedding bands including custom design. We carry the area’s largest selection of men’s and ladies wedding bands.
For 47 years Michael’s Jewelers has been helping couples create the perfect rings.You are welcome you to read the reviews to see why we have been voted Best of Bucks:
Top right, Sylvie diamond rings and below are CAD (computer aided design) software so you can see exactly how the ring is going to look from all angles.
Jewelry Store, and Best place to buy rings. Interest free financing is available.
Michael’s Jewelers has two locations to serve you in Yardley and Fairless Hills: 1619 Big Oak Rd, Yardley, PA; 215-944-5900 & 445 S Oxford Valley Rd, Fairless Hills, PA; 215-608-4664 For more information, visit www.jewelrybymj.com.
Embellishments
Wedding Cakes
McCaffrey’s
bakeries can make just about any cake you deisre. If you see something in a magazine or eslewhere, just take a picture of it with your cell phone and bring it in. Trends are away from the traditional buttercream cakes and toward cakes with fondant molds and inedible decorations like rhinestones and jewels. A dedicated staff of bakers and decorators in the McCaffrey’s stores produce high quality custom baked goods for all occasions. McCaffrey’ supermarkets are located in Yardley, PA; 215-493-9619, Newtown, PA; 215-579-1310, New Hope, PA; 267-741-8001, Simply Fresh in Doylestown, PA; 215-3481000, Princeton, NJ; 609-683-1600 and West Windsor, NJ; 609-7993555 or visit www.mccaffreys.com.
Be a Guest at Your Own Party
Whenit comes to catered events, Fancy Fig Catering and Cafe makes sure you are a guest at your own party. They have been specializing in offsite catering for over 15 years and opened the Fancy Fig Cafe in 2016. Owner, Lisa Brymer says, "We are delighted to be working with such wonderful clients in our surrounding communities. Our goal has always been to plan your event from start to finish."
Fancy Fig takes care of event design, rentals, staffing, decor, food, set up, and clean up. They care for your every need, so you don't have to. The staff starts by planning a menu with you, tailored to your party and dietary needs. They execute the food with the freshest and best products available and use as many local vendors as possible. No party is too small or too large. They have catered
events from 2 people to 600. Fancy Fig Catering would love to be a part of your next special occasion. For more information, please contact The Fancy Fig Catering & Cafe at 267-396-6905 or visit https/fancyfig.wixsite.com/fancyfig.
Sanctuary Camelback Resort Mountain
Nestled within the picturesque landscapes of Camelback Mountain, Sanctuary is a famed Scottsdale,Arizona luxury resort set upon 53 acres of lush desert featuring manicured grounds, gardens, pools and award-winning facilities. Located eight miles north of Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and a mere fiveminute drive from the Scottsdale attractions, Sanctuary Resort is built within the spectacular landscapes of the terraced Camelback Mountain.The luxury resort provides the guests a tranquil hideaway with fabulous views of the Paradise Valley. Spread over 53 acres, the resort offers its guests an opportunity to experience upscale luxury and enjoyment coupled with glorious reinvigoration in their own private haven.
The resort, an architectural marvel, stands apart from all other luxury resorts in Scottsdale. It features a unique range of residences, which are gorgeously embedded within the fabulous landscape of Camelback Mountain. The panoramic views commanded by the resort create a feeling of magnificent escape from the nerve-wracking hustle bustle of life left behind. It provides an excellent opportunity for the honeymoon couples to reconnect with each other as never before while exploring the stunning scenery of the terrain. For information visit www.gunneysresorts.com.
Wedding Gowns Uniquely Yours
Casablanca Bridal is committed to designing and manufacturing bridal gowns that reflect superb quality, original design, and attention to detail. Their privately owned factory allows them to ensure all phases of production from start to finish are to our exact standards. Every Casablanca gown is made to order one at a time. Casablanca takes great pride in the fact that they do not mass-produce their bridal gowns. Each gown is unique from the hand beaded designs and exquisite laces, to the fit and customization for every bride’s specific needs.
Chic elegance and modern romance come to life in the shape of exquisite Style 2460 Skylar! If a simple, striking gown that allows for two looks in one is what you’re looking for, this absolute stunner is designed with you in mind. The loveliest sequined floral lace pattern adds dimension to the
on this fit-and-
flare gown, supported by spaghetti straps and a classic V-neckline with a V-back to match. Stretch chiffon underneath silky chiffon makes the skirt an extra-comfortable, minimal masterpiece, extending into a lacy scalloped edge 59-inch train. For an even more picture-perfect moment, the optional detachable skirt with matching scalloped lace trim ups the drama, extending the train all the way to 88 inches! Your walk down the aisle wearing this versatile style will be one for the ages. Select your store at www.casablancabri dal.com.
Embellishments
EventRoostr’s Online Conciege Service
TC Cuthbertson has come up with a novel solution to help brides plan a wedding. It is an online wedding concierge service that takes the anxiety out of the overwhelming process of coordinating this very special event.TC says, “Our concierge service is an online wedding coordinating and booking platform. Brides can come to the EventRoostr website and book wedding packages that include vendors that the bride needs, such as caterers, DJs, photography services and florists, which takes the randomness out of planning her wedding.
The process is simple and easy. TC explains, “The bride would go to EventRoostr.com and see the venue and experience packages that she wants, and she would procure those services with a 10 percent deposit on the platform, so it is an e-commerce platform with payment plans to make affording wedding expenses more comfortable.
The bride’s investment is protected. TC says, “Every single event that is booked through our platform are 100 percent insured. All of the vendors, even down to the wedding itself is insured. In other words, she can get complete insurance coverage for every aspect of her wedding.”
The bride also has lots of options and there are different varieties of experiences that a bride can choose. “For example, maybe a bride already has the DJ but needs décor and photography, she can select a specific package that only includes décor and photography and once she has that package, she puts a deposit on the platform, and she has photography and décor locked in.”
EventRoostr takes the hassle out of event planning. The bride has more buying power and can compare vendor prices. Booking vendors is enhanced by the process being completely organized, having an integrated billing process and much less legwork. Also, she can earn rewards and cash vouchers online to use towards booking vendors directly from the platform.
There is no fee for using the platform, only for booking a service through the platform, and payment plans are available. The full bridal concierge service will be launched in the summer of 2022, but the platform can be used now. Just go www.EventRoostr.com, and click on Book An Event, then fill out the form and an event coordinator will reach out to you, making sure the vendors on file are satisfying all your requests.
Upper Bucks County
Historic small towns and villages connected by country roads that run beside farms, forests, lakes and rolling hills is Upper Bucks County where the old provides a setting for shopping, dining and entertainment
Imagine iconic villages surrounded by rolling hills presenting snow scenes that remind us of a Currier and Ives print. Children are sledding down hills and in the crisp wintry air is the fragrance of burning hickory. Then think of new shops, upscale boutiques, fine restaurants, breweries, artists and artisans. Your imagination has taken you to Upper Bucks County. Here we see small farms, baled hay and shoppers scurrying in and out of stores shopping. The contrast seems almost stark; cosmopolitan and small-town, commercial and rural, historic and modern. This is why Upper Bucks County with its deep roots in the past, scenic countryside, glistening river and bountiful farms is a tourist destination that caters to lovers of natural beauty and up-to-date culture, art, cuisine and fashion.
The towns in Upper Bucks County are connected to each other by state and county roads which traverse the rural countryside. Although there is similarity between them, they each have their own history and character. Take a drive up there and visit the shops and businesses on the attached two pages and enjoy it!
photo: Bobby Waite
Upper Bucks County
Bedminster Canine Kamp now has openings in their Training Program! We offer both group and private sessions, either at our facility or your home. We use play and focus exercises to make training fun and enriching for both the family and dog. Group classes for Puppy Kindergarten, Basic Manners, Enriching Games for obedience (agility/rally/tricks). Learn or improve your dogs' skills on leash, coming with called, meeting new people, and more!
Upper Bucks County
Upper Bucks County
Time to visit Bristol
It’s time to visit Bristol. Bristol is now a happening place, yet it is very old. In fact, it is the oldest town in Bucks County. Bristol is as old as Pennsylvania, itself. In 1681 on the same day as Pennsylvania received her charter, Samuel Clift received title to 262 acres covering the original part of Bristol. Bristol’s history is an integral part of the much larger story of William Penn’s land grant, settlement, industrialization, and now it is one of the most picturesque destinations in Bucks County. This Bucks County town that has become a destination still has homes predating the American Revolution and in places, brick sidewalks. Majestic Federal and Victorian homes face the Delaware and
along Mill Street there are restaurants, specialty retail shops, boutiques, cafes, jewelry stores, antique shops and galleries. The vast amount of work done at the waterfront allows boats to come in from Philadelphia, New Jersey and Delaware to stop, have a meal or a drink, and go shopping, and then see a show at the renowned Bristol Riverside Theatre. The Delaware is wide and beautiful as it slowly passes by Bristol Waterfront Park, which is a place for concerts, festivals, fishing, boating, outdoor dining, monuments and lit up sculptures. Come to the new Bristol and while you are there, enjoy the old.
Photos: Jess Graves
HISTORIC
HISTORIC BRISTOL ALONG THE WATERFRONT
Culinary Sacrilege
Chef Anthony Boccella believes that it is almost a sacrilege that arancini, such an important and widely loved delicacy in Sicily, is hardly known in the United States
There are few words in the Italian language that are as musical to my ear as arancini. The “r” ripples along my tongue as it catches up to the soft sounding “ch” before ending in a sweet duet of its last two letters. Although, to be honest, there are few Italian words that aren’t. And there are few Italian foods that aren’t among my favorites. Arancini placing high among them ever since I traveled to Sicily. It’s where arancini originated.
Its roots stretch to the 10th century when Arabs occupied the island, bringing with them rice and saffron. And where today, you’ll find it sold as a popular street food, or as a specialty of a neighborhood trattoria or even a Michelin-starred restaurant.
Arancini has been immortalized in The New York Times bestselling author Andrea Camilleri’s Inspector Montalbano mysteries set in Sicily. And fans of the HBO hit White Lotus will recognize it as the only food featured in the second season, filmed in Taor-
Photo: Paul Wesley
mina, Sicily.
Rice is key to this delicacy. Described as small balls of rice stuffed with a savory filing, arancini are then coated in breadcrumbs and deep-fried. But that description doesn’t even come close. One bite is all you need to know they’re so much more.
So why isn’t arancini widely known in our area? Or found more readily on our area’s Italian restaurants’ menus? For answers I turned to Chef Anthony Boccella, co-owner with his wife, Rosa Bianca, of Trattoria Rosa Bianca in Yardley. And where Anthony is known for the best arancini this side of Sicily.
It’s a few weeks before Christmas when I catch up with him. Sitting across from me at one of the white linen-covered tables in the main dining room, Anthony shakes his head, saying he’s been wondering that for years. Such an integral dish to Italian cuisine, especially Sicily’s, he says, it’s almost a sacrilege that very few people know about it.
But don’t blame Anthony. Ever since he and his wife opened Trattoria Rosa Bianca 10 years ago, arancini have been featured on its menu. No matter the season, he says, you’ll always find his Classic Arancini. This he sets before me, shimmering with heat from the fryer, as well as two other arancini he has created this day. It’s the size of a baseball. But that’s where all comparisons end.
Slicing into the arancini is like slicing through whipped butter. The crisp exterior of breadcrumbs easily gives way to its treasures awaiting inside. Anthony’s Classic Arancini is made with perfectly prepared risotto and packed with a ragù Bolognese pomodoro sauce and pecorino cheese, then rolled in breadcrumbs and quickly deep-fried.
With my first bite, I taste an explosion of welcoming flavors and textures. Not even in Sicily do I remember arancini this luscious. Out of the corner of my eye, I see Anthony’s lips moving. Looking up from my plate, I ask him in my best DeNiro voice, “Are you talkin’ to me?” He laughs.
It’s all he needs to know that his Classic Arancini has claimed another ardent fan.
Like a well-orchestrated symphony, every element in his Classic Arancini hits the right notes. Unlike most Bolognese sauces, where a mixture of ground veal, pork and beef are used, Anthony uses only pork and veal. Instead of grinding them, he cubes the veal and pork, so that each retains its own integrity of flavor and texture. He then simmers the cubes in his pomodoro sauce for several hours until all the flavors meld together, creating a rich Bolognese.
It’s the same with the Italian rice Anthony uses. “Only Arborio,” he says. “It’s starchier than carnaroli.” Instead of carnaroli grains adhering to one another with the help of egg, the arborio grains embrace one another, retaining their “al dente” texture and a purer flavor without the need of egg. While his Bolognese Pomodoro sauce simmers, Anthony makes the risotto, allowing it to cool before forming the risotto into balls and stuffing them.
As for the coating of his breadcrumbs, I’ve never had one so delicate or savory. To explain, Anthony says, he dusts the arancini with breadcrumbs from the flavorful focaccia he makes daily.
The second arancini Anthony sets before me is a seafood one, created especially for his annual Italian Christmas Seven Fishes dinner. The jumbo lump crabmeat is sweet and succulent while the bottarga and colotura add a chorus of flavors. Suffice it to say it’s that good I advise you to make your dinner reservations now for next Christmas.
Lastly is a dessert arancini. Noting the surprised look on my face, Anthony says he knows a dessert arancini is not typical, but he likes to mix things up. Like musicians and artists, Anthony takes the basics and riffs on them. This time it’s a decadently delicious creation of risotto, fresh raspberry puree, vanilla bean and sugar topped with pistachios and rich dark chocolate. Need I say more?
Anthony cooks according to the seasons—and to his culinary muse, well-
rooted in his Sicilian and Neapolitan heritage. He particularly creates dishes that showcase Sicily’s many culinary contributions, such as fish, rice, saffron, salt, pistachios and lemons. And many of the dishes he creates are his own take on his mother’s Sicilian recipes, including arancini. “My mom only made them for special occasions,” he says, much to little Anthony’s disappointment. Lucky for us, Chef Anthony thinks they should be enjoyed every day.
Anthony is also all about creating dishes that highlight the freshness and variety of local farms and producers—both in Bucks and across the river in Jersey.
One of the reasons Anthony loves creating arancini, he says, “It’s like working with a blank canvas. But you have to be great from the start. Build on the basics.” From there he says you need to bring everything else into harmony: texture, temperature and flavors to hit all the senses and ring the umami bell. The same goes for his vegetarian and gluten-free arancini.
Come spring, Anthony says, he’s ready to “come out of the darkness. I want to see green.” Seeing green for him translates to the stars of spring vegetables: fava beans, asparagus, fresh peas and spinach. Look for these to show up on his spring arancini menu, many married with his own inhouse fresh mozzarella and ricotta cheese, as well as his Classic Arancini.
According to “Tasting Table,” arancini are among the 20 classic Italian dishes you must try to make yourself at least once. But why bother? When you can enjoy arancini stress-free and delicious every time at Trattoria Rosa Bianca.
Trattoria Rosa Bianca is located at 94 S. Main Street in Yardley; rosabiancatrattoria.com; 267-392-5738; BYOB; Mon.–Fri. 4 p.m.–9 p.m.; Sat. 11 a.m.–10 p.m.; Sun. 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; Sunday Brunch 11 a.m.–3 p.m.; Mon. & Tues. Evenings 3Course Chef Tasting Menu..v
Diana Cercone is an area freelance writer who specializes in food, art and travel.
Restaurants with Taste / Frank D.Quattrone
Springtown Inn
On a spring-like Friday evening at the end of December, the Springtown Inn was bursting with laughter. Couples celebrating a birthday were taking photos in front of the twin fireplaces in the
first-class restaurant. Once a major stagecoach stop along the route from Allentown to Philadelphia, the Springtown Inn has blossomed into a community center, hosting weddings and other private catered affairs as well as theme nights.
the trio who purchased the inn in December 2018. A carpenter by trade, Doug Tweed says, “We want to keep up the traditions of a quaint country inn; but it’s also approachable, affordable and handicapaccessible.”
main dining room. Other patrons marveled at the original fieldstone walls, dating back to the inn’s founding nearly two-hundred years ago. Still others were digging in to generous portions of familiar favorites —Clams Casino, Prime Rib of Beef, Filet Mignon au Poivre, Pan Seared Salmon— from the New American menu.
By any measure, it was clear that the loyal clientele from Springfield Township, where the inn is situated, along with guests from as far off as Willow Grove (a full hour’s drive away), were enjoying an evening’s hospitality at this
There are Family-Style Meals on Mondays, with rotating comfort-food themes. There is Steak Night every Thursday, where patrons can enjoy fine cuts of meat butchered on the premises by Executive Chef Dave Dilisa. And there are Seafood Sundays, with a changing array of denizens of the deep served with potato, vegetable, and side salad.
For all its historical, architectural, and culinary attractions, the Springtown Inn also exudes an unmistakable down-toearth warmth emanating from Douglas and Carol Tweed and Bobbie Gianguzzi,
Carol Tweed, who was a server at restaurant for years before becoming a co-owner, as gregarious as they come, chatting with guests and inviting them to try one of the fine wines from new vineyards she loves explore as the inn’s practical sommelier. On the evening of our visit, was enticed to try terrific Pessimist Red Blend from the Doau Family Winery in Paso Robles, California. With a name like that, it had to be great, and it was.
Meanwhile, manager Bobbie Gianguzzi, with thirty-five years in the restaurant business, had been working at the inn for twenty years before becoming a coowner. Inspired by her mother, Bobbie has become a world-class pastry chef, offering up perhaps the biggest and best Strawberry Shortcake anyone has ever seen, among other mouth-watering sweet treats. Bobbie says the inn’s regular patrons revel in the friendly, Cheers-like ambiance, calling it “their dining room or their bar seat.
Photos: Paul Wesley
Holy Que Smokehouse
Holy smoke! There’s a new star on the horizon. And local lovers of barbecue have discovered their BBQ heaven—or, at least, haven. Cleverly called the Holy Que Smokehouse, it’s the brainchild of lifelong restaurateur Tom Peters, a specialist in opening restaurants. A native of Jersey City, Tom found new footing in 2014, when he attended a real es tate convention in the Lone Star State.
Recovering from a heart attack and seeking a quality-oflife upgrade, Tom fell in love with the taste and the craft of Texas barbecue on that fate ful trip. Since then, he has recommitted him self to the restaurant business (which he’d never totally abandoned, even while plying his skills in real estate).
lack of sauce,” he said. “We grill our meats low and slow with salt and pepper—and a whole lotta love,” he said with a laugh. “It lets the meat speak for itself, without interference or added flavor. But we do offer a bourbon brown sugar sauce, on the side,
buds as you enter Holy Que. It’s the warm greeting of the smiling Ama Houck, the vivacious presence Tom Peters calls his “director of first impressions.” And it’s the invitation to partake of a complimentary can of Miller’s, “the champagne of beer,”
for those who want it.”
The result? Holy Que Smokehouse, an authentic wood-fired Texas barbecue in Lahaska—a relatively small space with a truly big heart. Open only three days a week—the busy weekend from Friday through Sunday—Holy Que has been wowing its growing legion of loyalists since opening during the challenging Covid “winter” of 2020.
Asked why he chose Texas rather than the equally popular Carolina style, Tom was both forthcoming and colorful. “The
Why only three days a week? Again, Tom laughed (something he’s really good at). “Man, barbecue is still a kind of destination in these parts. Plus, we do a huge business in catering. Right now my staff and I trim twenty to thirty briskets every Thursday and smoke maybe sixteen or more a week. We fire our meats fresh every day for twelve hours. But when we get our new smoker in a few weeks, we’ll be able to cook sixty briskets at a time!”
It's not just the aroma and anticipation of freshly smoked meats that tease the taste
as Tom reminds his latest patrons.
You order from the menu above the counter. Pitmaster Matt Waddell and sous chef Yaritza Rodriguez are smiling also from behind the counter, and Ama delivers it in record time as you settle in for your meal, and you know you’re in for a treat.
We’d heard of Holy Que’s “Most Wanted Sandwich,” the Holy Grail, a mini skyscraper of brisket, pulled pork, and cheddar brat all in one. But Tom recommended the Holy Trinity platter instead. (You get the picture.) He said, “You’ve got to try this Texas staple. It’s a
Springtown Inn
They’re very spoiled,” she says with a laugh. “But without them, we’d never have made it through the pandemic. We really appreciate their loyalty.”
The menu too is a key lure. At the helm is self-taught Executive Chef Dave Dilisa, a veteran of the Carversville Inn, who says he has learned from all the fine chefs he has ever worked with. In addition to butchering the restaurant’s meats, Dave also makes the pastas from scratch, a rarity these days. He is ably assisted by Sous Chef Mick Osborne, who once worked at the Greystone Inn.
This team of two has fashioned a familiar menu with enough surprises to delight the most jaded palate. Our appetizers were both flavorful and fun. Eve’s Triple (Seafood) Sampler was an ample, artful array of smoked trout, smoked salmon, and poached shrimp, served with capers, horseradish cream, and crostini. But who would have expected a country inn to offer Thai Brussels Sprouts? One of my favorite dishes of the night, the homely sprouts were infused with spice through a sriracha
Holy Que Smokehouse
third of a pound of sliced brisket, brats, and pork spareribs with your choice of side.” All platters are served with zesty pickled onions and sliced potato bread. For sides, since Eve and I were sharing, we had the Mac and Cheese, made with smoked Gouda, mild yellow and sharp Cooper cheddar; creamy and cheesy West TX Cream Corn “with just the right amount of heat”; and crispy green beans.
I had a Pulled Pork Sandwich, also a third of a pound, with meat that easily broke off on my fork, served with pickled onions, barbecue sauce on the side, and a huge slice of cornbread, birthed in buttermilk and honey—probably the best I’ve ever tasted. Although we saved a little room for the sweet, delicious Banana Pudding, one of two desserts made on the premises (the 900-calories “Monster Choc-
honey coating, accompanied by Thai pickled cucumber, zesty roasted peanuts, and satay sauce. We also sampled the French Onion Soup, laced with sherry and topped with Swiss cheese and garlic croutons.
Our entrées were also terrific. Eve ordered the inn’s signature dish, Filet Mignon Oscar, a grilled eight-ounce filet
Executive Chef Dave Dilisa,
a veteran of the Carversville Inn, who says he has learned from all the fine chefs he has ever worked with.
perched atop perfectly grilled asparagus and a potato croquette, topped with jumbo lump crab meat and Hollandaise sauce, a marvel of culinary architecture and flavor. My twin Seafood Cakes were a scrumptious blend of scallops, whole baby shrimp, and lobster (an inspired variation on crab cakes), served with roasted root vegetables and Basmati rice.
With understandable pride, Bobbie personally delivered the desserts to our
table: an irresistible Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie and (just as tall as Eve’s magnificent Filet Oscar) the piece de resistance — Strawberry Shortcake, with a generous layer of fresh strawberries nestled between two layers of cake and drizzled with fresh cream and strawberry sauce.
With its Old-World ambiance (including eight active and decorative fireplaces and original stone walls), inspired touches on its New American menu, and the warm, polished attention of Amy, our elegant server (who takes her work as seriously as European professionals), it’s no wonder that laughter permeated the Springtown Inn. Go there! There will be much to savor on that long drive home.v
Springtown Inn is located at 3258 Main Street, Springtown, PA 18081; 610-3467262; www.springtowninn.com. Open for dinner only Sunday and Monday, 4–8 p.m.; Thursday to Saturday, 4–9 p.m. Closed Tuesday and Wednesday. Available for weddings and catered events in three private rooms upstairs. Full-service bar. Reservations recommended.
olate Chip Cookie” had already sold out), it was obvious to us when Ama delivered the goods that we couldn’t possibly finish this terrific meal. More happy moments to savor at home, to be sure!
Tom Peters loves the business. His mother, who is Lebanese, once had her own restaurant, and the family has dabbled in food trucks over the years. Tom remembers serving coffee from his uncles’ trucks when he was twelve years old and has worked in countless kitchens, from food trucks to fine dining, for years (including his own restaurant in Scottsdale, many moons ago). Coming late spring, Tom says, is a Holy Que food truck, which will serve great barbecued foods made at the Lahaska site all over Philadelphia, parts of New Jersey, and definitely “down the shore.”
In season, Holy Que can seat up to eighty patrons at covered tables outdoors, while thirty-two can eat comfortably indoors. There’s lots of laughter at Holy Que. Tom says it’s because “we’re so communityoriented. We know our customers’ names and birthdays, contribute to families in need, and love a communal style.”
Our recommendation: here’s a business to watch and support and enjoy again and again.v
Holy Que Smokehouse is located at 5788 Lower York Road, Lahaska, PA; 267-544-5762; www.holyque.com. Open Friday and Saturday, 11:30 a.m.–7 p.m., and Sunday, 12–4 p.m. unless they sell out sooner. Dine in.Take out. Private catering available. First-come, first-served. No reservations.
equipment, textile making and learned much about the technologies employed that changed a small iron works to one of the largest steel companies in the world. There is no way one visit will do. There are programs for students and even younger children. Next time we go we plan to bring grandchildren with us.
Leaving the museum we head off to McCarthy’s Red Stag Pub & Whiskey Bar to meet with President & CEO of Discover Lehigh Valley Alex Michaels. McCarthy’s, an Irish bar and grill says of itself on its website, “Our vision for McCarthy’s Red Stag Pub is to give our guests an authentic experience of the Irish and Celtic culture that they cannot find anywhere else in the Lehigh Valley (or elsewhere!).”
We meet with Alex Michaels and order lunch. Alex is very helpful. His knowledge of the Lehigh Valley and of Bethlehem is extensive, and his manner is warm, welcoming and friendly. He makes recommendations for other visits to the Lehigh Valley. We eat burgers, which are delicious.
After leaving McCarthy’s we decide to explore the area on our own. We simply start driving and see where we end up. Taking many back country roads, we pass through farmland and small towns and make stops for coffee and enjoy the scenery. Our jaunt takes us all the way up to the Poconos.
We return to the Sayre Mansion and it is already dark. We realize that there is so much left to see in Bethlehem—the Apothecary, the Moravian Book Shop and the Kemerer Museum of Decorative Arts, to mention just a few. We only scratched the surface. We suggest that you get to know the Lehigh Valley, town by town as daytrips and overnight getaways. We want to come back and visit Easton, Nazareth, Jim Thorpe, Allentown and the many places that make up this unique area that is right next door.v
Bob Waite is the editor of Bucks County Magazine and Tanya is his wife, travel companion and the co-writer of this department.
Dining Out Guide
BUCKS COUNTY
Alessio’s Seafood Grille 827 Easton Road, Warrington, PA 215-483-8500
www.alessioseafoodgrille.com
Alessio’s Seafood Grille serves fresh, flavorful Italian seafood dishes prepared with the finest ingredients from around the world. Everything is made by hand in our restaurant everyday, from delicious appetizers and favorably sauces to our salad dressings and homemade Italian seafood specialties. Serving seafood, Italian dishes and pizza.
Baci Ristorante
Route 202 & 413, Buckingham, PA 215-794-7784
www.baciristorante.com.
A charming Bucks County fieldstone restaurant that offers fireside and balcony dining in the upstairs restaurant. Enjoy the Heart of the Oak Pub offering both the Pub menu and Baci’s menu. Serves Northern Italian cuisine including pasta, seafood, chicken, chops, veal and steak entrees. Facilities for weddings and private parties up to 120. Extensive wine list and imported beers on tap in the Oak Pub. Online menus. Enjoy the piano bar on Friday and Saturday evenings. Open 7 days a week for lunch and dinner. Menus online.Reservations accepted. Accepts major credit cards.
Charcoal BYOB
11 South Delaware Ave. Yardley, PA 215-493-6394
www.charcoalbyob.com
A neighborhood gem, since 1995, Charcoal has been crafting seasonal meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner. At Charcoal we experiment with modern culinary techniques while incorporating the classics.The room is casual and comfortable, entertaining both young families and long time regulars. In the evening, the music changes, candles are set out on the tables, and many diners show up with some of their favorite bottles of wine. Handmade pastas, the freshest seafood, Painted Hills beef, Griggstown Farm Chickens fried to order, and house made bread and desserts make any evening feel special. Charcoal BYOB is a family restaurant, with a bit of a modern twist.
Ferndale Inn,
551 Churchill Road (Route 611), Ferndale, PA 18921; 610-847-2662; www.theferndaleinn.com.
Casual fine dining with Chef Karen Baron’ signature dishes that include jumbo lump crab au gratin, soft shell crabs, duck with green peppercornbrandy cream, angel hair pasta with lobster, and creme brulee. Full bar. Online menus. Open for dinner Monday, Wed-
Dining Out Guide
“Getting Better with Age”
The Pineville Taver has built its foundation on a t adition of esh, homemade food, a diverse menu, and most impor antly, by valuing our team. We take care of each other and together we take care of you, the g est.
Since 1742, the Pineville has ser ed the g eater Philadelphia area, making us one of the count ’s oldest continuously operating taver s. In other words, we’ve been here since the dawn of cocktails.
nesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday 5–9 p.m.; Sunday 4–8 p.m. closed Tuesdays. Reservations accepted. Accepts Visa, MC, and American Express.
Lambertville Station
Restaurant and Inn
11 Bridge St., Lambertville, NJ
609-397-8300
www.lambertvillestation.com
Dine inside a restored 19th-century train station or al fresco on the terrace with breathtaking views of rolling hills and the Delaware River just a few feet away. The Inn boasts a stately elegant 46 contemporary rooms or suites with sophisticated furnishings and stunning views. Host your private event in one of the many event spaces, from intimate corporate functions to the elegant riverfront wedding of your dreams. Wine cellar with 50 + boutique wines. Bar and restaurant over seasonal Al
Fresco dining. Featuring short ribs, fish & chips, crab cakes, Steak, Lancaster chicken, fish tacos, Filet Mignon, and Salmon. A favorite after-work destination, enjoy casual dining and hand-crafted cocktails, beer and wine in The Pub. Reservations suggested. All credit cards accepted.
McCoole’s at the Historic
Red Lion Inn,
c 1750, corner of Main & Broad Quakertown, PA; 215-538-1776
www.mccoolesredlioninn.com
Upscale atmosphere for the working person’s wallet, featuring humanly raised, antibiotic and growth hormone free foods with cooperation of local farms. The best of live entertainment on weekends and Al fresco dining on the patio in season. Online and phone reservations available and suggested for weekend dining.
Non Solo Pasta Ristorante
900 West Trenton Ave. Morrisville, PA; 215-736-0750
www.nonsolopasta.restaurant
Non Solo Pasta features creative Southern Italian cuisine with the delicate flavors of an authentic Italian kitchen. Our menu includes modern and original interpretations of handmade pastas, seafood, veal and other traditional dishes that maximize the flavors of seasonal fresh ingredients. Carry Out Premium Wine and Beer available.
Pineville Tavern
1098 Durham Road, Pineville, PA 215-598-3890
www.pinevilletavern.com
Since 1742, the Pineville has served the greater Philaselphia area, making us one of the country’s oldest operating taverns. Serving steaks, pasta, ribs, burgers, crab cakes and chicken. Upstairs, the 1742
Dining Out Guide
Room is an intimate space that boasts vaulted ceilings, random-width pumpkin pine flooring, and a handcrafted farm table made from reclaimed wood. An ideal venue for business functions, birthdays, wine dinners, holidays, and showers.
The Plumsteadville Inn
5902 Stump Road
PlumsteadvillePA 15-766-7500
www.plumsteadvilleinn.com.
Established in 1751 in Plumsteadville, Bucks County, Pennsylvania – “The Plum Inn” restaurant and tavern provides delicious, family-inspired menus, great service, and a comfortable setting that welcomes young, old and everyone in between. Offering salads, appetizers, dinner, and sandwiches. Tavern favorites include meatloaf, chicken parmigiana, chicken pot pie, Veal, pasta and BBQ Ribs, steak, and prime rib. Open 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. Happy hours 4 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Reservations suggested. All major credit cards accepted.
Tonys Place
1297 Greeley Ave, Ivyland, PA 215-675-7275
www.tonysplaceivyland.com
Prepared by a world class culinary staff, the menu at Tony’s Place features a full array of small plates, sandwiches, salads, and entrees that are sure to delight. Our chefs have developed a menu that adapts to the seasons with locally sourced ingredients to satisfy your taste buds. Cocktail bar and entertainment.
Vela, 140 Veterans Ln, Doylestown, PA 215-230-8352
www.veladoylestown.com
Vela is named for our location on Veterans Lane in Doylestown. We opened our doors in 2018, excited to join the
community at the heart of Bucks County.We believe that the best experiences are shared with friends and family enjoying food and drink with warm hospitality. From fresh, house-made pastas to craft cocktails featuring local spirits, we offer a taste of Doylestown that values traditions, both new and old. The seasonally inspired menu, crafted with tradition, feels at home in a stylish and welcoming atmosphere.
Washington Crossing Inn
1295 General Washington Memorial Blvd., Washington Crossing, PA 215-493-3634
www.washingtoncrossinginn.com.
The Washington Crossing Inn adjoins the spot where George Washington and his troops assembled before crossing the Delaware River on Christmas Eve night in 1776. Executive Chef Estaurdo Gonzalez serves up fresh salads, appetizers, and entrees such as Filet Mignon, Apri-
Dining Out Guide
Country Inn Serving Fine & Casual Fare We invite you to sample freshly prepared seasonal specials… Come in and relax in our comfortable dining rooms featuring unique pieces of original art Wed., Thur., Fri., Sat. dinner from 5pm • Sun. dinner from 4pm Closed on Mon. & Tues.
Reservations Appreciated 610-847-2662
Rt. 611 and Churchill Road, Ferndale, PA 15 miles N. of Doylestown on Rt. 611 www.theferndaleinn.com
Alessio’s Seafood Grille
An Italian Touch
Fresh Italian Seafood • Delicious Appetizers and Flavorful Sauces • Homemade Italian Specialties • Signature Salads Catering for all Occasions • BYOB
827 Easton Road • Warrington, PA - 267-483-8500 alessioseafoodgrille.com
cot Pork Chops, Chicken Schnitzel, Homemade Gnocchi Primavera, Rigatoni Alla Vodka, Grilled Salmon, Crabcakes, and Sesame Tuna. Bar and cocktails. Open daily 11:30 a.m. – 9:00
p.m. Reservations suggested. All major credit cards accepted.
Water Wheel Tavern
4424 Old Easton Road
Doylestown, PA
215-348-8300
www.waterwheeltavern.com
Water Wheel Tavern is an historic Bucks
Springtown Inn
Quaint Country Inn
Springtown Inn • 3258 Main Street • Springtown, PA 610-346-7262 | www.springtowninn.com
County landmark originally built in 1714 by John Dyer, an English Quaker. Local, regional and sustainable seasonal ingredients provided by FarmArt, Blue Moon Acres, Bright Farms and others. Waterwheel offers fine American Cuisine, craft beers, and nice large menu including grilled salmon, steak, burgers, and large selection of salads.
The Yardley Inn
82 East Afton Ave.
Yardley, PA
214-493-3800;
www.yardleyinn.com
Founded in 1832, The Yardley Inn originally went by the name of The White Swan. The Inn is on the Delaware River and offers American Cuisine. A wellplanned menu by Executive Chef Robert McNally includes Crab Ravioli, NY Strip Steak, Grass Fed Filet Mignon, Crabcakes, Lemon Chicken, Faroe Island Salmon, salads, and sandwiches. Bar and cocktails. Open for lunch and dinner Monday through Thursday 11:30a.m. – 8 p.m. Reservations suggested. All major credit cards accepted.
Staying Fit at Any Age
IDIVE INTO LIFE AND MAKE A SPLASH
by Vicky Paraxismos Waite
much enjoy my readers emailing me some fantastic stuff to review for my department. The Aqua Gaiter Underwater Treadmill System is an email I was sure to save!
I called the phone number in the email and a sweet voice answered. I explained how I would love to review the Aqua Gaiter Underwater Treadmill System. She introduced herself as Monique who began telling me all about this treadmill that she has inside her heated indoor pool at her home up on beautiful Jericho Mountain. Just a distance away!
Monique was just as anxious as I to meet. Luckily Bill threw my bathing suit in the backseat before hopping into the driver’s seat. I mean who is thinking about swimming in February? We catch up with Monique who was an attractive woman in her forties with a well-toned body. It was evident she worked out to keep it that way. I told Bill, my kind of woman!
Monique and I throw on our swimsuits and off we go to the pool. Her built-in pool is humongous. Bill could have brought his suit too and did a few laps while Monique showed me her unique underwater treadmill and how to operate this neat piece of machinery. As I go for it, it just feels so weird with it being underwater and all. Did I mention fun?
With The Aqua Gaiter Underwater Treadmill System, you can go barefoot or wear aquatic shoes. I choose to go barefoot. Monique has a mat under her Aqua Gaiter Underwater Treadmill System to keep it stable. Underwater treadmills are great because you use the same muscles you use to run on land,
but the weightlessness of water eliminates the pounding on your joints. This is why underwater treadmills are so commonly used for both recovery and rehabilitation. It’s a great way to work out with less pain, more resistance and minimal stress. You are getting a full lower body workout, core conditioning and cardio training all at once.
The Aqua Gaiter Underwater Treadmill System harmoniously blends all the benefits provided by water buoyancy with my natural ability to walk or jog. The machine is letting me work at my own speed. The adjustable resistance is allowing me to have an intense workout. I do not have to deal with any sweating either! I work in some aquatic exercises along with the traditional on land running workouts. I have heard once you have used an aquatic treadmill, you will not want to revert to using a standard machine. After experiencing being on it, I can’t agree more the gains are plentiful, and the best thing is, you will start to feel and see changes quicker than you would from using any other cardio machine.
Another great benefit that I like about the Aqua Gaiter Underwater Treadmill System is that as I am running underwater it is much harder than running on land, thanks to the natural resistance provided. So, the extra exertion will ensure my muscles to work extra harder. Studies have now proven that training underwater is an even better way to help control and maintain your blood pressure, which is great news for the millions of people around the world who suffer from pain and hypertension.
I am enjoying doing a range of different fitness programs on
the Aqua Gaiter Underwater Treadmill System as I’m enhancing my strength, muscle mass, and endurance. I want to emphasize how super easy to use. All you need to do is start walking or running on it to get started. No prior experience necessary. You can work at your own pace on muscle strength, endurance, and rehabilitation safely with excellent stability.
If you want to give your lower body an excellent workout and really tighten up your muscles, then this machine is going to speed up the process dramatically. Low impact cardio is key for those who are concerned about causing themselves unnecessary strain. By training when you are chest deep in water, you will reduce your overall body weight to a fifth of what it usually is, meaning there will be less weight for your joints to bear.
Low impact workouts are also ideal for the elderly or ill or needing care. The Aqua Gaiter Underwater Treadmill System is a great cross training option whether you’re injured or not. Running underwater can strengthen your muscles and promote healing from an injury. For people with chronic conditions like osteoarthritis, activities like walking on the Aqua Gaiter Underwater Treadmill System can cure or significantly reduce pain. The Aqua Gaiter Underwater Treadmill System is the source of the treadmills healing powers. Besides reducing swelling, it also relaxes joints, improves strength, and boosts flexibility.
The Aqua Gaiter Underwater Treadmill System comes with a 40’ hose assembly at no additional cost. The hose runs from the Aqua Gaiter Underwater Treadmill System in the pool, to the powerpack unit that runs the treadmill. It comes with a nice large digital wall display showing speed, time, and distance. It is costly if bought for personal use, but you can always go to a health fitness center, or a verified rehabilitation center where you can exercise on a underwater treadmill. Great for the heart and body. Good reason to swim your heart out! For more information visit www.aquagaiter.com and as always consult your physician before beginning.
Sunset
for behold, the winter is past; the rain is over and gone. The flowers appear on the earth, the time of singing has come, and the voice of the turtledove is heard in our land. Song of Solomon 2:11-12 (ESV)
