Bucks County Magazine Summer 24

Buc ks County Sailing Lake Galena

ASHLEY JOHN DESIGN

Interior design is an art that most need a guiding eye's assistance with. Many successful people are talented in areas which enable them the means to purchase high end real estate, but transforming that beautiful house, apartment, or office/commercial space into a warm and stylish home or workplace requires a different set of skills.

For the last five years I've been building a unique venue created solely to cater to the interior designer/art consultant trade. Open by appointment only and exclusively to the trade, designers and art consultants can bring clients with our assurance the client cannot return unaccompanied.

Beginning my career as an antiques dealer at the age of 12, I've spent most of my life buying and selling antiques, fine art and jewelry. My art gallery, Jim's of Lambertville, just celebrated its 25th year anniversary. In addition to specializing in paintings by the Pennsylvania Impressionists, I also have garnered a reputation for buying high quality collections of almost anything. A few of my most notable "buyouts" include Spanierman Gallery, Hartman Rare Art, and Flying Cranes. All three iconic NYC galleries are known for being at the top of their specialized fields.

Ashley John Design is a 40,000 square-foot single story facility offering one-stop shopping for all genres of art and decor ranging from 17th- to 21st-century paintings, sculpture, furnishings, and objects. Old master to contemporary, art nouveau, and art deco, mid century modern, Victorian, folk art, Georgian, French, and Asian. There is no other place which offers the enormous breadth of eclectic and unique finds in one location. Situated in Doylestown, Pennsylvania, 15 minutes from New Hope and Lambertville, less than an hour from Philadelphia and less than two hours from Manhattan by car, Ashley John Design is

a wonderland of variety for those with a discerning eye.

For the walls we have large holdings from many important artists' estates from all genres including Impressionism, modernism, and contemporary as well as Hudson River School and tonalism. Whether the project requires providing art for a large hotel, office complex or a residence, we are well suited and stocked for either. In addition to paintings and decoration for the walls, we have a vast collection of Chinese and Japanese antiques, as well as garden statuary, period frames, furniture, lighting, marble and bronze sculpture, and objets d'art for all tastes and from all periods.

AJD was designed for physical visits. Come and look, bring your clients, show them around and make your selections. As for art, if you don't see exactly what you're looking for on the walls, we can most likely find a perfect fit within our collections.

We have far too much inventory to create a "shop online” website. I've created a catalog to launch Ashley John Design the old fashioned way. The catalog is filled with lots of photos intended merely to show a very broad overview and meant to whet your appetites. I encourage you to make an appointment, spend a day to see and experience the concept and surroundings. Guaranteed not to disappoint!

AJD is a well kept secret and special place for designers to have in their repertoire. Secluded on 7 lush acres and protected behind a stately gated entrance, we are out of the way enough but close at the same time. There are many very nice boutique hotels and restaurants in nearby New Hope, PA /Lambertville, NJ for those traveling from any distance. We are located 55 minutes from Philadelphia International Airport, an hour and twenty minutes from Newark Liberty Airport and 30 minutes from Trenton Mercer Airport.

the Design World in Bucks County, PA.

Exhibition & Sale

An 80 page full color catalog, including over 120 paintings and 16 signed lithographs by Peter Sculthorpe available for purchase.

$35 + shipping

Please call to order

Opportunities for daydreaming on a bench by a lake, paddling a canoe, hiking or bicycling on a trail through a wooded area are all very available in Doylestown and surrounding areas / By Jerry Osborn

It was love at first sight when Peter and Linda first saw this 18th century house in the heart of Langhorne—they were taken in by its imposing beauty, historic charm and possibilities / By Beth S Buxbaum

A look beyond the busy roads to the countryside and farmlands where we have farm stores, carnivals, petting zoos and scentic history. A Photo Essay / By Bobby Waite

Bucks County Magazine’s Education Guide is a handy reference for parent and students interested in educational options

Bucks County’s Annual Healthy Living Guide features local hospitals, physicans and useful information about the staying healthy and fit for 2023

Our artist-in-residence, Jennifer Hansen

created this peaceful sceme of sailboats on Lake

Rolli

Galena at Peace Valley Park.

43 g Art Galley / By Michele Malinchak

Katharine Krieg, who paints plein air and in her studio, lives where nature and art come together

46 g People / By Cynthia Marone

Ken Kaissar, who is co-producing director with wife Amy at the Bristol Riverside Theatre, is a playwright, teacher, director and podcaster whose lifeblood is the theater

50 g In the Garden / By Lori Rose

to grow in the garden, sage in the past has been used to improve memory, extend life, relieve a sore throat, and this aromatic herb adds flavor to almost anything you cook

92 g Style / By Chrysa Smith

Jim Alterman, owner of Ashley John Designs is no minimalist but enjoys looking for quality art and objects from all periods to stock his 40,000 square-foot designer showroom in Doylestown

98 g Home / By Chrysa Smith

Randy Ziegler, owner of Painting by Randy Ziegler, learned an essential lesson from his grandfather

108 g Getaway / By Bob & TanyaWaite

Tanya and I are stunned by the beauty, the sites to visit, the hospitality, and historic significance of a region known as the Laurel Highlands, which to us is like going to Shangri La in Pennsylvania

152 g County Fare / By Diana Cercone

Giancarlo Truppi has a pizza truck fitted with a classic Neapolitan dome-designed wood-burning oven and is ready to bring the finest Neapolitan pizzas to your outdoor parties

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, Bobby Waite, Paul Wesley

Account Executives

Rich Baldwin, Jess Graves

Ann Ferro Murray, James Padilla, 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. Standard postage paid at Lancaster, PA. Single-copy price is $5.95 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.

JENNIFER HANSEN ROLLI

Signature

By Bob Waite

What’s my excuse now? During the winter I could say, “It’s too cold out there” and during the spring “too rainy” but now it’s summer and I can’t stay inside with a clear conscience. Of course, I could say, “too hot” but really, I need fresh air, to be by the water, and to take those slow sauntering walks in the sun that build up my vitamin D level. I need to get out there and I am running out of excuses. Summer lasts longer than three months, regardless of what occurs between the solstice and equinox, and I enjoy swimming, fishing, walking, bicycling and boating. So, since I didn’t make any New Year’s resolutions, I did make several for summer. I will go to the pool; I will take walks on balmy summer nights; I will jump on my bicycle, I will get out there!

Recognizing the need for recreation, a freelancer from the other side of the county line gives us ideas on how to re-create ourselves by outdoor activities in the Doylestown area. In Jerry Osborn’s article, “Doylestown Re-Creation,” Jerry presents the many opportunities for daydreaming on a bench by a lake, paddling a canoe, hiking or bicycling on a trail through a wooded area and other forms of recreation that are available in Central Bucks County.

Enjoying summer outdoors requires several things: time, energy and good health. So, our Annual Guide To Healthy Living is helpful for finding providers of medicine, fitness training and ways to prevent serious disease. Everything from improving your hearing to keeping your dog happy and healthy is presented to us in this Annual Guide.

Our featured house for the Summer 2024 issue of Bucks County Magazine is an 18th-century home in the heart of Langhorne. Our writer, Beth S. Buxbaum, wrote about how owners Peter and Linda were immediately taken in by the house’s beauty, historic charm and possibilities. The house is, as its title suggests, “An Imposing Beauty.” Outside this stone house borders the sidewalk, but behind it are lush gardens, interesting trees, sculptures and trails to take you to little nooks designed to view the garden. All this and a home full of interesting collections are photographed by Randl Bye.

My wife Tanya and I, in our Getaway Department, wrote about our visit to the lower Laurel Highlands in Western Pennsylvania. We called the story, “Pennsylvania Shangri-La” because it was like getting off the turnpike and suddenly entering an area which appears to be a magical natural wonderland in the heart of the Alleghenies. While there we toured Frank Lloyd Wright’s masterpiece, Fallingwater.

In our Summer 2024 issue of Bucks County Magazine, we also feature a pizza catering service, the director of the Bristol Riverside Theatre, a large showroom for interior designers, a restaurant in Frenchtown, NJ, a meeting with sage, an artist in love with nature, a house painter, an education guide, a farm guide and many places to go and things to do in Bucks County and surrounding areas. So, get out there!

Sampler

dining in the garden at the Pineville Tavern. Climate controlled 365 days a year. The garden has come into its own as part of the historic Pineville Tavern in just a few years with unrivaled ambiance and seating capacity for up to 100 people.The Pineville Tavern is loaded with good food, drink and plenty of history. Visit or make a reservation this summer. The Pineville Tavern, 1098 Durham Road, Pineville, PA; 215.598-3890; www.pinevilletavern.com. … “A Nesting Place,” watercolor. In spring, the grasses and wildflowers take over the front fields on the Ulrich Farm and become the perfect nesting spots for the red-winged blackbirds. Other birds find shelter in the trees surrounding the barns. Available at Jane Ramsey Fine Art, 122 N Main St., Dublin, PA; 215-249-9155; www.janeramsey.com.

… come to the Lawrenceville store or go online to browse collections of furniture, firepits, pizza ovens, accessories & more. Ski Barn always offers free in-store, at-home or virtual consultations and has its own delivery and set-up crew and delivery to the Jersey shore. Ski Barn is located at 2990 Brunswick Pike, Lawrencetville, NJ; 609-530-1666: www.skibarn.com

blue and white striped Blair Top Fits true to size, Lightweight double weave100% cotton. Visit River Gypsy a quaint women’s boutique for the latest summer clothing and shoe fashions. River Gypsy is located at 15 Race Street, Frenchtown, NJ; 908-996-7000; www.riverygypsynj.com.

... a wide selection of MacKenzie-Childs tableware and home décor can be found at the Wooden Duck Shoppe in Peddlers Village. Made in America MacKenzie-Childs creates furniture to kitchenware to lighting to decor accents, and is guided by their own passion for handmade touches and playful details.The Wooden Duck Shoppe is located at Route 202 & Street Rd Shop, 1, Lahaska, PA; 267-544-0174; www.woodenduckshoppe.com.

this Curtis Jere Brass “Eye of the Storm” abstract sculpture is only an example of the fine handadcrafted works of art that you can find at the Gilded Home furnishings consignment shop. Visit the store at 24 Summit Square Center, Langhorne PA ; 215-693-2926; www.gilded-home.com.

CUSTOM TREEHOUSES AND PLAY STRUCTURES

In the whimsical world of custom treehouses and play structures, THS Builders emerges as a pioneer of imagination and craftsmanship. With just two years under their belt, this innovative company has captured hearts and minds with their commitment to turning childhood dreams into tangible realities.

Specializing exclusively in crafting bespoke treehouses and play structures, THS Builders brings a fresh perspective to the construction landscape. Each project is a testament to creativity and innovation, designed to spark joy and wonder in both children and adults alike. At the heart of THS Builders' mission is a dedication to creating unforgettable experiences. With professional engineers on staff, the team ensures not just magical designs, but also safe and structurally sound constructions.

Despite their relatively short time in the industry, THS Builders has quickly established a reputation for excellence. Every treehouse and play structure bears the unmistakable stamp of quality craftsmanship, reflecting the passion and dedication of the THS team. But THS Builders isn't just about building structures; it's about fostering imagination and adventure. With a focus solely on residential projects, THS Builders understands the importance of creating safe and enchanting spaces where memories are made and imaginations run wild.

Behind every whimsical creation at THS Builders is a team of dedicated professionals united by a shared vision of playfulness and creativity. From visionary designers to skilled craftsmen and professional engineers, each member of the THS family brings their unique talents to the table, ensuring that every treehouse is a masterpiece in its own right. For more information, call THS Builders at 814-9520393 of visit www.thsbuilders.com.

WE DID IT!

Dear Valued Participants and Supporters,

We’re still reveling in the excitement of our recent GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ attempt. What an amazing day! Thanks to the incredible enthusiasm and participation of our customers and the residents of Plumstead Township, Doylestown, Bucks County and the surrounding area, we have the pleasure of announcing GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS has proclaimed us “Officially Amazing.” Thanks to all of you, we successfully shattered the previous record of 295 people knocking on wood simultaneously — with a new record of 552 participants — making us the new GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ record holder.

We want to express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to this remarkable achievement. Whether you were a participant, volunteer, Steward, vendor, employee, member of the band, or just a supporter cheering us on from the sidelines, your enthusiasm was instrumental in making this event a resounding success.

Breaking a GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ is no small feat, and it’s a testament to the hard work and determination of everyone involved. We, at Tague Lumber, are incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together with our amazing community of customers and friends. While our record-breaking attempt may be over, we will always share the memory of that special day including the camaraderie and fun we all enjoyed. We look forward to celebrating many more milestones together in the future.

Your friends at Tague Lumber

THE CIDERHOUSE AT IRONBOUND FARM

Ciderhouse at Ironbound Farm creates unique, farmcentric hard ciders and wines—along with acclaimed fieldto-table cuisine—using ingredients grown on their 108-acre farm. The Farm offers full-service dining, casual outdoor drink and snack service, special on-farm dinners, farm-share memberships, and a farm store stocked with local produce, meats, eggs, flowers, cheeses, grains, and value-added products, as well as Ironbound’s entire beverage portfolio.

For cider production, Ironbound’s award-winning winemaker, Cameron Stark, uses 100% fresh-pressed apples, grown on family farms in New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. He infuses those ciders with unusual, locally-grown botanicals and fruits, including beach plums, dry-harvested cranberries, and burdock. Ironbound’s Harrison Collection celebrates Newark’s rare, and coveted, Harrison apple, which Cameron showcases in a trio of hard, sparkling, and fortified ciders. Ironbound’s ciders and wines are served in their

tasting room, where they’re also used to make seasonal cocktails.

Ingredients raised at Ironbound Farm are grown using regenerative farming practices, which encourage biological diversity, rebuild soil health, capture carbon, and maximize rainwater conservation. Head farmer/chef, Alec Gioseffi, chooses crops and livestock based on how they contribute to the overall health of the farm. He then develops menus based on the farm’s harvests.

Chickens, turkeys, and ducks provide pest control and fertilization. Pigs turn the soil, which limits the need for tilling. And, by grazing and foraging, Ironbound’s sheep and goats help clear overgrown woodlands and fields. All this activity benefits the health of the soil and crops while also producing highly flavorful, nutrient-dense eggs and meats for the tasting room and farm store.

Ironbound Farm is located in Hunterdon County at 360 County Road 579, Asbury, NJ. For more information call 908-940-4115 or visit www.ironboundhardcider.com.

THE INN AT FOX BRIAR FARM

Family owned and operated, The Inn at Fox Briar Farm welcomes you to a preserved piece of Historic Bucks County. Tucked behind Peddler’s Village, the Farm’s 50 acres begin with a historic Bucks County. Tucked behind Peddler’s Village, the Farm’s 50 acres begin with a scenic, winding drive carved through wildflower fields, ponds reflecting romantic weeping willow trees, and manicured lawns. Over the arched stone bridge and atop the hill sits the newly restored, 18th-century fieldstone Inn. Boasting eight guest bedrooms, the Inn is reserved exclusively for the wedding party over their weekend and includes a full breakfast prepared each morning.

At The Inn at Fox Briar guest enjoy the ease of settling into the Inn and gathering with those in the wedding party for rehearsal with the Barn Wedding venue and outdoor ceremony locations right next door. Rehearsal dinners are also available on site. Couples

have a choice of picturesque outdoor ceremony locations or an indoor ceremony under the grand chandelier.

Receptions are celebrated in the elegant fieldstone and woodpaneled barn with soaring vaulted ceilings and panoramic windows which provide sweeping views across the fields and the main pond.An outdoor bluestone terrace stretches across the entry side and is perfect for welcome drinks, cocktail hour, and taking a break from the dance floor under the glowing tree canopy in the evening. Fully air-conditioned and heated the barn is perfect for celebrations year round.

The Inn at Fox Briar Farm is located at 300 Carousel Lane, Lahaska, PA 18902. For more information, call 215-348-9825 or visit www.thefoxbriarfarm.com. See more of the farm on Facebook:The Inn at Fox Briar Farm and Instagram: @thefoxbriarfarm.

ROBERT BECK AT MORPETH CONTEMPORARY

Here and Now, Beck’s first solo exhibition since his 2021 Michener Art Museum retrospective, expands on his representational work in New York, Maine and Bucks County. The show reveals a clear evolution in both the plein air and studio paintings Beck is known for.The theme of the representational artist’s work is the world around us.

“The paintings done from life are an immediate reaction,” says Beck. “They describe what it’s like to be there.The studio paintings are freed from those confines, and fed by imagination and experience. But they still center on how I feel about things in our lives.”

Here and Now includes a special selection of images created in New York, as well as the first gallery exhibition of two large paintings returning from museum shows: Thicket—featured in this year’s prestigious Woodmere Open, and December Scallops—exhibited

in the American Society of Marine Artists National Exhibition.

For three decades, Beck has played a leading role in the region’s art community, both as a leader and an advocate, and he is recognized as an important voice at the leading edge of the Bucks County art heritage. His love for where he grew up is evident in his local subjects, including locations on both sides of the Delaware River.

“You know right away they are Robert’s paintings,” says gallery owner Ruth Morpeth, who first showed Beck in 1997, “They have always connected with people, and each exhibition reveals an expansion of depth and eloquence.” Here and Now, September 14 through October 6, Morpeth Contemporary, 43 W. Broad St., Hopewell, NJ. Wed-Sun, 11-5 609-333-9393.

JENNIFER HANSEN ROLLI CASADE

Noun: cascade: A succession of stages in a process, each of which initiates the next. “The word resonates with me in my life and in my work. There’s just something about how the light cascades down, whether morning, afternoon or evening. That’s what I love to paint, capturing the play of light on the world around me, no matter how insignificant. I am focused on loving the life I’ve made for myself whether I’m at home, in Manhattan, hiking, biking or walking my dog. Right now, seeing my family together means so much.”

A grouping of larger-than-life florals, such as her recent May Flowers will highlight the show. The new collection will also include Hansen Rolli’s iconic views of New York City and Bucks County’s towns, skies, farms and waterways. Jennifer Hansen Rolli’s Cascade is on display from September 14 through October 13, 2024. The public is invited to the artist’s opening receptions, Saturday, September 14 from 5 to 8 p.m., and Sunday, September 15 from noon to 4 p.m.

Browse the entire collection at www.silvermangallerybuckscountypa.com. The Silverman Gallery is located in Buckingham Green, 4920 York Rd. (Rt. 202) in Holicong, PA. Gallery hours are 11-6,Wed.–Sat., 11–4 on Sunday, and by appointment; 215-794-4300.

LOOK UP, LITTLE MOUSE

Look Up, Little Mouse, a children’s book about faith, has just been released by PA author and Bucks County Magazine contributor Chrysa Smith. This is the ninth children’s book from the author, and the first with a decidedly Christian message.

According to Smith, the story is about a mouse who gets trapped in a church belltower. Frozen with fear, he rejects assistance from a hawk and a butterfly, each offering helpful messages. the little mouse is too scared to take their help, until finally, a gentle dove comes along and explains the concept of faith to the little mouse. Testing his own, the little mouse decides to trust in the dove, who ultimately carries him back down and to his home.

The author says she’s always wanted to write a Christian children’s story, and this past year, it all came together. “I believe my faith is stronger than ever,” she says, “And if I can share lesson that might help someone younger find their way through some of life’s scary situations, I will feel like I’ve accomplished something special.”

The book is intended as a read-aloud for children in K/1, as an independent story for grades 1 and 2, and children’s book lovers of all ages. Beautiful full-color illustrations drawn by award-winning illustrator, Pat Achilles, grace the pages of the book, which has been recommended by both Christian and secular book reviewers.

The book is available mid-May, with school author visits beginning in the fall.

For more information, log onto www.wellbredbook.net, or contact the author directly at chrysa@wellbredbook.net.

HONESTY, ACCOUNTABILITY AND KINDNESS

Tilghman Builders is a family-owned remodeling company serving Bucks and Montgomery Counties for 42 years. Bob Tilghman started the business in 1982 and in 2020, his son Eric Tilghman took the reins and began rearranging the business, coming from a life-long leader of the field team.

Eric’s focus when taking over the business was all about company culture. It is his belief that company culture comes first and the rest falls into place, including 100 percent happy clients. Eric has since set out on a lifelong journey to achieve this, by way of company culture and one of honesty, accountability and kindness.

“Quality carpentry comes easy, that’s the fun part for a group of carpenters,” says Eric. “It is the experience of our clients that we focus on the most.” Eric is aware that remodeling your home is challenging and can be inconvenient at times. “It’s a team effort to shield our clients from the stress of home remodeling and instead keep them in a peaceful mind space.”

Tilghman has done many projects including historical remodeling, built-in cabinetry, bedroom suites, bathrooms, kitchens, garages, outdoor living spaces, sunrooms, roofing, siding, windows and entire home renovations.

“Our many happy clients are a biproduct of our healthy company culture. Our core values (Honesty,Accountability & Kindness) are our guiding light, and we will adhere to them all the way to a national level.” Eric claims.

TTilghman Builders help you with budgeting by using a step-bystep guide to help you plan, budget and get financing for any home project you are looking to do. Call Tilghman Builders at 215-3573206 or visit www.tilghmanbuilders.com.

UNTOLD STORIES OF THE DOAN GANG

he Mercer Museum presents an exciting new major exhibition, The Doan Gang: Outlaws of the Revolution, that explores the history and intrigue of a group of Revolutionary War-era Loyalists whose legend lives on today. Some called them villains; others hailed them as heroes.

Discover the untold stories of the Doan Gang at the Mercer Museum’s newest immersive exhibition, and journey through a world of espionage, legendary robberies, and mythical lost treasure in the heart of Revolutionary Bucks County. Learn how these local outlaws plotted, schemed, and plundered their way through a divided world in the earliest days of a budding American nation, and why their deep loyalty to British rule in the colonies made them enemies of the Founding Fathers. This major exhibit will be running throuh December 31st. For more information visit www.mercermuseum.org.

DESTINATION FOR FIREARM ENTHUSIASTS

Welcome to Survival Trail, the premier gun shop and indoor range located just north of Doylestown in Pipersville. It's no surprise that Bucks County boasts some of the highest numbers of privately owned firearms in the state. Survival Trail has crafted a top-notch destination catering to firearm enthusiasts, law enforcement, hunters, collectors, and self-defense practitioners alike.

Survival Trail distinguishes itself with a brand-new, state-of-theart 12-lane indoor handgun and rifle shooting range, paired with a vibrant, immaculate pro shop. Our facility showcases products from the industry’s top manufacturers in a professional and welcoming

environment. Our courteous and knowledgeable staff pride themselves on exceptional customer service.

The shooting range and training facility are open to the public six days a week for an hourly fee, with various membership levels available that offer a wide range of benefits. Survival Trail offers firearms training classes daily, led by local and nationally recognized certified instructors. Their courses cater to everyone, from beginners who have never handled a gun to advanced combative and competition instruction.

Drop by soon and experience the buzz for yourself—you'll be thrilled with what you discover.

Survival Trail is located at 6801 Easton Road, Pipersville, PA. For more information, call 215766-0100 or visit www.survivaltrail.com.

CENTRAL BUCKS COUNTY’S ADAM RADCLIFFE

St. Michael Of The City recently was screened at the Garden State Film Festival and is now streaming on TUBI, Prime Video and VUDU. Starring Adam Radcliff, a prominent actor from Warrington who has played leading roles in Hollywood movies, independent movies and serials.

St. Michael Of The City takes place in Trenton, NJ. The film introduces us to Michael (played by Adam Ratcliffe), who, after a sevenyear absence, returns to his hometown only to discover that the more things change, the more they stay the same. The local gang, led by Paulie (Brian Anthony Wilson), continues its extortion prac-

MUSIKFEST

Arecord-breaking 1,330,000 people attended Musikfest in 2023.The 11-day festival featured over 500 free performances, across 16 stages located throughout the City of Bethlehem. The 41st Musikfest is scheduled for Aug. 2 – 11, 2024, with a special preview night on Aug. 1. This year’s Musikfest 2024 poster artist is Banana Factory Artist-in-Residence and Teaching Artist, Lauren Beck.

For further information about this year festival go to www.musikfest.org.

tices, while Michael's cousin, Cuz (Interdonato), laments the unrecognized efforts that have expanded their operations. Amidst this, Michael's reunion with his former love, Diane (Jensen Jacobs) — who has since married Paulie — complicates his intentions for returning. Despite his past, Michael finds himself drawn back into the gang's illicit activities, all while grappling with the underlying motivations for his return and the possibility of rekindling old flames.

Saint Michael Of The City navigates the complexities of loyalty, love, and the unyielding grip of one's past, posing the question of whether one can ever truly escape the shadows of home.

Summer 2024

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.

Open Wed., Sat, and Sun. 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. 1850 River Road, Lambertville, NJ. 609-397-0811; www.gnflea.com.

Renningers

Ongoing: Food Truck Thursdays

June 28-29: Vintage Antiques and Collectors Extravaganza

Admission. Rain or shine. 740 Noble Street, Kutztown, PA. 570-385-0104; www.renningers.net.

Doylestown’s Classic Car Show

July 20: classic car show featuring over 500 hundred cars annually. Located on the streets of Doylestown, Pennsylvania, the show offers a unique experience for

car owners and admirers. En-joy music, local restaurants and much more - all free to the public.

www.doylestownatdusk.com

Das Awkscht Fescht

August 2-4: This three-day antique and classic car show celebrates its 55th annual season. Admission includes all events, shows, and entertainment. Macungie Memorial Park, Macungie, PA. 610-967-2317; www.awkscht.com.

New Hope Auto Show

August 10-12: This annual auto show features both antique and classic cars. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission. Fee for parking. New Hope-Solebury High School, New Hope, PA.

www.newhopeautoshow.com.

Warren County Antiques Show & Vintage Marketplace

August 24-25: Spend a few days shopping in the country for antiques. Along with

Planetarium at the New Jrsey State Museum

Peach Festival at Peddlers Village

What to do in Bucks County

Independence Day, Washington Crossing Park

antiques and collectibles, there will be lectures from respected historians, demonstrations, and world class exhibitions. Don’t miss the live entertainment and food vendors. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission. Free parking. Warren County Fairgrounds, Harmony, NJ. 908-343-5873; www.warrencountyantiqueshow.com.

ART

Canal Frame-Crafts Gallery

Ongoing: A full-services gallery and frame shop, Canal Frame features both originals and prints. Many fine 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

art-ists from the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. Fine art framing services, as well as conservation services, also are provided. 5230 Silo Hill Road, Doylestown, PA. 215-348-2500; www.gratzgallery.com.

Patricia Hutton Galleries

Ongoing: Patricia Hutton Galleries will once again launch their annual Summer Vacation Exhibition. Expect to see New England’s rocky shores and charming villages as well as Bucks County’s rivers, streams, meadows and hills. The gallery wide show will feature the work of twenty award-winning artists painting their favorite summer destinations in oil, watercolor, and pastel. Boats, marine works, beaches, gardens, and all the joys of Summer will be on display. Come, be inspired. 47 West State Street, Doylestown, PA. 215-348-1728; www.patriciahuttongalleries.com.

Ongoing: This exclusive 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.

James A. Michener Art Museum

June 29-January: Monuments & Myths: America of Sculptors Augustus SaintGaudens & Daniel Chester French

June 13: Drag & Draw

June 20: Summer Solstice at the Labyrinth

June 24-26: Painting on Canvas

July 1-5: Recycled Sculpture

July 8-12: Stained Glass

August 1: Art After Dark

138 South Pine Street, Doylestown, PA. 215-340-9800; www.michenermuseum.org.

Princeton University Art Museum

Ongoing: Princeton History Walking Tour

Through August 8: Art on Hulfish-Don’t

Flyoing over the Delaware, Van Sant Airport

The Silverman Gallery of Bucks County Impressionist Art

We Touch Each Other Just to Prove We Are Still Here?

Through September 1: Denislon Baniwa: Under the Skin of History

September 14-Feburary: Helene Aylon:Undercurrent Princeton, NJ. 609-258-3788.

The Barnes Foundation

Ongoing: Highlights Tour

Through August 15: Education & Empowerment: Scholarship Recipients at the Barnes Foundation 1927-1949

June 23-September 8: Matisse & Renoir: New Encounters at the Barnes 2025 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, PA. 215-278-7000. www.barnesfoundation.org.

Brandywine River Museum of Art

June 13: A Conversation with Peter Paone

June 15: Plein Air Painting Workshop with Randall Graham at Andrew Wyeth Studio

July 19: Concerts in the Courtyard: Palour Noir

July 22: Virtual Talk with Victoria Wyeth:

Andrew Wyeth 1965 to 1985

Through July 24: Drawing & Painting with Karl J Kuerner

August 10: Yoga on the Brandywine

August 15: Kuerner Farm Plein Air

Evening

August 23: Concerts in the Courtyard:Wicked Sycamore 1 Hoffman’s Mill Road, Chadds Ford, PA. 610-388-2700; www.brandywine.org.

Artists’ Gallery

Through June 30: Jane Adriance and Joe Kazimierczyk

July 4-August 4: Richard Harrington and Llya Raskin

August 8-September 1: Claudia Fouse Fountaine and Bill Jersey

18 Bridge Street, Lambertville, NJ. 609397-4588; www.lambertvillearts.com.

Artists of Yardley (AOY)

July 8-August 23: Summer Art Classes

September 22: Heads Up for Art on the Farm

949 Mirror Lake Road, Yardley, PA. 215-493-1205; www.aoyartcenter.org

Philips Mill

July 18 - 21: Premiere Showcase

July 28 – August 25: Submission period opens for the 95th Juried Art Show at Phillips' Mill.

2619 River Road, New Hope PA; www.phillipsmill.org.

Stover Mill Gallery

June 29 - July 28: Cindy Ruenes & Kathie Jankauskas "A Duet of Color"

August 3 – 25: Janine Dunn Wade "Private Conversations"

September 7-29: Jane Ramsey "Quiet Passage: Reflections of Neighboring Farms"

Tinicum Civic Association ,852 River Road, Erwinna PA.

CRAFTS

Manayunk Arts Festival

June 22-23: One of the largest outdoor arts festivals in the region, the Manayunk Arts Festival draws upwards of 200,000 attendees every year to Manayunk’s historic Main Street for a two-day festival of arts, crafts, music, food and more. Hun-

dreds of local and national artists from around the country head to the annual event to sell handmade items of all sorts. 4312 Main Street, Philadelphia, PA. 215482-9565

Tinicum Arts Festival

July 13-14: 300-plus artisans and artists gather for this annual event featuring live entertainment, children’s activities, picnic food, white elephant sale, silent auction, author’s table, discovery tent, and book sale. Sat. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sun. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission. Free parking. Sponsored by the Tinicum Civic Association. Tinicum Park, Route 32, Erwinna, PA. www.tinicumartsfestival.org.

The Greater Philadelphia Expo Center

July 13-14: Greenberg’s Train and Toy Show

August 9-11: Eagle Shows

100 Station Avenue, Oaks, PA. 484-754EXPO; www.phillyexpocenter.com.

Traditional Artisan Show

August 17-18: Bedminster Land Conser-

vancy hosts this annual show. There will be over 40 artisans from 12 states selling Redware pottery, Windsor chairs, hooked rugs, Shaker boxes, floor cloths, Theorem paintings, stained glass, and more. Visitors also can see craft demos. Admission. Perkiomen Valley Middle School East, 5 Tammanund Circle, Collegeville, PA. www.traditionalartisanshow.com.

Doylestown Arts Festival

September 7-8: For this special weekend in September Doylestown turns into a festival. You will discover over 100 artists, live music on multiple stages, activities, food courts, and a bike race. Doylestown, PA.. www.doylestownartsfestival.com.

New Hope Arts & Crafts Festival

September 21-22: Visit this festival for over 160 artists and craftsmen with such media as ceramics, sculpture, pastels, glass art, and jewelry. Free admission and shuttle. Rain or shine. New Hope-Solebury High School, New Hope, PA.; www.newhopearts.org.

The Princeton Festival

Through June 22: This event has offered staged operas, musical theater, jazz, chamber and symphonic concerts, piano and organ recitals, dance, world music, a piano competition for young artists, even puppet theatre. Princeton, NJ. www.princetonsymphony.org.

Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival

Through June 30th: The Last Five Years

June 26-July 7: The Merry Wives of Windsor

July 5-August 3: Winnie the Pooh & Friends

July 17-August 4: The Color Purple

July 24-August 4: Cymbeline

The Professional Theatre at DeSales University, 2755 Station Avenue, Center Valley, PA. 610-282-WILL; www.pashakespeare.org.

Bristol Riverside Theatre

June 26-30:Bachelors of Broadway

July 17-July 21: Dancing Dream: Abba

Tribute Band

July 24-July 28: 50’s Dance Party

August 14-August 18: Forever Motown 120 Radcliffe Street, Bristol, PA. 215-785-0100; www.brtstage.org.

Town and Country Players

July 12-July 27: Assassins

September 27-October 12: The 39 Steps 4158 York Road, Buckingham, PA. 215348-7566; www.townandcountryplayers.org.

Newtown Arts Company

June 20-23: Anne of Green Gables

August 15-18: The SpongeBob Musical Newtown, PA. 215-860-7058; www.newtownartscompany.com

New Hope Winery

June 22: Soul Shine-An Allman Brothers Expericne

June 28: Chris Pinnella, and the The Billy Joel Songbook

July 12: An Evening with Paula Cole

July 20: Alternative Fix

July 26-27: Classic Stones Live

August 17: Bad Animals- The Heart Tribute Live

September 20: Adrenalize: The Ultimate Def Leppard Experience

6123 Lower York Road, New Hope, PA. 215-794-2331; www.newhopewinery.com.

Musikfest 2024

August 1-11: This popular festival returns to Bethlehem and includes music on several stages, arts and crafts vendors, and concessions. Performers for this year include AJR, G-Easy, Goo Good Dolls and Maren Morris. Admission. Bethlehem, PA. 610-332-1300; www.musikfest.org.

Bucks County Playhouse

June 28-July 27: Last of the Red-Hot Mamas

August 9-September 8: Grease

70 S. Main St,New Hope, PA; www.bcptheater.org

EQUESTRIAN

Tinicum Park Polo Club

The perfect summer setting.

June 15: Bill Thomas Memorial Cup

June 22: Club Match

July 6: USPA Max Berger

August 17: USPA Women’s Challenge Cup

August 24: Pooches & Polo

September 14: Hat Day

961 River Road, Erwinna, PA. 908-996-3321

www.tinicumparkpoloclub.org.

Bucks County Horse Park

July 13: USEF/USDF -Dressage at the Park III

July 16: Tuesday Eve Dressage

July 18, 25, August 8: Thursday Morning Horse Show

August 9, September 13: Friday Evening Eventing

September 8: Invitational/Hunter

Derby/Fall Jumper Classic

8934 Easton Road, Revere, PA. 610-8478597; www.buckscountyhorsepark.org.

Radnor Hunt Concours d’Elegance

September 6-8: Come celebrate this annual event, complete with a collection of fine

cars, trucks, and motorcycles. Several events will be held during the three days, including a BBQ on Friday, Chester County Road Rally on Saturday, and the show on Sunday. Admission. 826 Providence Road, Malvern, PA. www.radnorconcours.org.

EVENTS

Bucks Fever Events

June-August: Brown Bag It with the Arts

June 15: Bucks Fever Festival

June 22: Bucks Fever Talent Show

July 25: Young Professionals Cornhole Tournament

August 5: Annual Golf Outing

June-August: Bucks Fever Brown Bag-it with the Arts

Central Bucks Chamber of Commerce, Doylestown, PA. 215-348-3913 www.centralbuckschamber.com

Mount Hope Estate & Winery

June 22-23: Celtic Fling & Highland Games

July 13: Blues & Brews

2775 Lebanon Road, Manheim, PA.

Peddler’s Village

Through May 12: Cupcake Decoration Competition

May 4-5: Strawberry festival

May-August: Sand Sculptures in the Village

June 15-30: Bucks Fever- Art & Sculpture Exhibition

July 4-7: Red, White, Blue BBQ Bash

August 3-4: Peach Festival

Routes 202 and 263, Lahaska, PA. 215794-4000; www.peddlersvillage.com.

Newtown Welcome Day

June 9: An Annual Event sponsored by the Newtown Business Association and held along Sycamore Street, drawing over 5,000 people to Newtown in the past. Artists, crafters, vendors and fun activities for the whole family are organized by members of the NBA. Enjoy Tasty Treats from eateries along the street! Arts and Crafts exhibits with Local Artists! www.newtownba.org/

Southampton Days

July 1-6: Fair attendees can enjoy live entertainment, rides, crafts, food vendors, face painting, children’s games, and much more. On July 4, there will be the Baby Parade, followed by the Annual Fourth of July Parade. Fireworks begin at 9:35 p.m. Tamanend Park, 1255 Second Street Pike, Southampton, PA. www.southamptondays.com.

Annual Tri-Municipal Fourth of July Parade

July 4: Bring your chairs and watch this community parade with marching bands, scout troops, antique cars, decorated floats, fire trucks, and more. Starts at 9:30 a.m. New Britain Township, Chalfont, PA. 215-822-1391; www.newbritaintownship.org.

Annual Pennridge Community Day

July 7: This annual fun-packed day begins with awards ceremonies and flag raising. The day also features food vendors, pony rides, children’s activities, live entertainment, games, parades, and amusement

rides. 12 to 6 p.m. Rain date July 15. Lenape Park, Route 152, Perkasie, PA. www.pennridgecommunityday.org.

Summer Fun at Pennypacker Mills

June 15: Pollinator Party

July 27: Victorian Game Day www.montcopa.org/928/Pennypacker Mills

Quakertown Alive

August 17: Upper Bucks Brewfest Quakertown, PA. 215-536-2273; www.quakertownalive.com.

Under the Stars Car Show

August 17: Featuring antique, classic, and custom cars, this annual show offers great summertime fun. There also will be live music and lots of food. Perkasie, PA. www.perkasieborough.org.

Ukrainian Folk Festival

August 25: Enjoy a day of food, music, dancing, arts, and crafts. There also will be a vendors’ grove. 12 to 8 p.m. Admission. Ukrainian American Sport Center, Lower State and County Line Roads, Horsham, PA. www.tryzub.org.

Peace Fair

September 21: This fair is dedicated to promoting harmony in the home, community, environment, and world. There will be fun for children, live entertainment, food, local crafts, poetry readings, and a book sale. Buckingham Friends Meeting & Buckingham Friends School, 5684 York Road, Routes 202 and 263, Lahaska, PA. www.quakerpeacefair.org.

Doylestown Road Angels

July 7: Street Rods, Rat Rods, Customs, Muscle Cars, Trucks, Antiques and Classics at least 30 years old are welcome. 194 N Main Street, Dublin PA; www.roadangelsdoylestown.com,

FAMILY

Bucks County Children’s Museum

Ongoing: An 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, Arti-

fact 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 colorful children’s attraction features interactive Crayola exhibits. 30 Centre Square, Easton, PA. www.crayolaexperience.com.

Da Vinci Science Center

Ongoing: This Lehigh Valley science center promotes creativity, curiosity, and imagination with exhibits designed to encourage science and math learning. 3145 Hamilton Boulevard, Allentown, PA. 484-664-1002; www.davincisciencecenter.org.

Giggleberry Fair

Ongoing: Climb Giggleberry Mountain, learn at Giggles Discovers, visit The Game Room, and take a ride on the antique Grand Carousel at Giggleberry Fair. Peddler’s Village, Routes 202 and 263, Lahaska, PA. 215-794-4000; www.peddlersvillage.com.

New Hope & Ivyland Railroad

Ongoing: Train Excursions

32 West Bridge Street, New Hope, PA. 215-862-2332; www.newhoperailroad.com.

The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University

Ongoing: Dioramas

Ongoing: Dinosaur Hall

Admission. 1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, PA. 215-2991000; www.ansp.org.

The Franklin Institute

Ongoing: Science After Hours

Ongoing: Daily Live Science Demonstrations

Through September 2: Art of the Brick 222 North 20th Street, Philadelphia, PA. 215-448-1200; www.fi.edu.

Shady Brook Farm

June-September: This Bucks County farm has lots in store this coming summer. They will be having festivals honoring different fruit crops, including strawberries, blueberries, peaches, and apples.

931 Stony Hill Road, Yardley, PA. 215968-1670; www.shadybrookfarm.com.

Lehigh Valley Zoo

June 16: Hops for Pops

June 29: Fiesta En El Zoo

July 4: Independence Day Celebration

July 6-7: Breakfast with the Beasts

July 27: Zoocoustic Night at the Zoo

August 10: Run Wild for Animal Conservation Admission. 5150 Game Preserve Road, Schnecksville, PA. 610-799-4171; www.lvzoo.org.

Snipes Farm and Education Center

Saturdays: Farm Market

Saturdays: Nature Walk

June to August: Camp 890 West Bridge Street, Morrisville, PA. 215-295-1138, ext. 102; www.snipesfarm.org.

2018 4-H & Agricultural Fair

August 21-25: 4-H exhibits, animal shows, food vendors, live entertainment, antique

ROBERT BECK

HERE AND NOW Sept. 14 - Oct. 6

Receptions

Fri., Sept. 13, 5:30-7:30 Sat., Sept. 14, 1:00-4:00

43 West Broad St. Hopewell, New Jersey 609.333.9393

tractors, and amusement rides all can be found at this annual Hunterdon County fair. Free admission. Fee for parking. South County Park, 1207 Route 179, Lambertville, NJ.

www.hunterdoncountyfair.com.

Tree Trails Trevose

Ongoing: Tree Trails Adventures

Tuesdays: Summer Glow Makes You Feel Fine

June 16: Father’s Day Climb

July 4: Happy 4th

September 4: Labor Day Summer Finale 301 West Bristol Road Suite A. Trevose; PAwww.treetrails.com

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

Ongoing: Festival of Fountains

Ongoing: Spotlight Walks

June 12: The Sky’s the Limit

June 13; July 5: Live Music in the Beer Garden

June 14; July 5: Carillon Concerts

June 19: Capturing the Conservatory En Plein Air

July 2: Fireworks & Fountains Shows

July 10: DIY Desert Terrariums

July 10: An Evening with Shawn Colvin & KT Tunstall

July 11: Rain Gardens and the Plants that Love Them

July 12: Festive Fridays

July 14: Creating Living Wall Art

July 20: Bonsai 1: Tropical

July 20: Perfecting Summer Perennials

August 3: Foraging Summer’s Fields and Forests

August 4: Rhiannon Giddens

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. 302-239-4244; www.mtcubacenter.org.

Tyler Arboretum

Saturdays: Wildflower Walk

June 13: Tyler at Twilight

July 26: Summer Fireside 515 Painter Road, Media, PA. 610-566-

GEMMI BRINGS BEAUTY & FUNCTION TO YOUR KITCHEN

9134; www.tylerarboretum.org.

The Morris Arboretum at the University of Pennsylvania Weekends: Garden Highlights Tour

Through September: Morris Goes Mesozoic 100 East Northwestern Avenue, Philadelphia, PA. 215-247-5777; www.morrisarboretum.org

Hortulus Farm

May-October: A one-hundred-acre 18thcentury farmstead and nursery operation. 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; www.hortulusfarm.com.

New Hope Historical Society

Ongoing: Museum Tours

Ongoing: Walking Tours 215-862-5652; www.newhopehs.org.

HISTORY

Lambertville Historical Society

Through November: Guided Walking Tours

of Lambertville

Marshall House Museum, 60 Bridge Street, Lambertville, NJ. 609-397-0770; www.lambertvillehistoricalsociety.org.

New Hope Historical Society

Through November: Tours of Downtown New Hope and the Parry Mansion July-August: All Tours 45 South Main Street, New Hope, PA. 215-862-5652; www.newhopehs.org.

Holcombe-Jimison Farmstead Museum

Through 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. Admission. 1605 Route 29, Lambertville, NJ. 609397-2752; www.holcombe-jimison.org.

Octagonal Schoolhouse

Through October: Come to the open house of this unique schoolhouse. It is open the third Sunday of each month, May through October. Open house hours are

1-5 p.m. Admission is free. Corner of Swamp Road and Second Street Pike, Wrightstown Township, PA.

Historic Fallsington

Through Mid-October: Guided Tours Admission. 4 Yardley Avenue, Fallsington, PA. 215-295-6567; www.historicfallsington.org.

Mercer Museum

June 15: 3rd Annual Juneteenth at the Mercer Museum

July 12-13: Shakespeare at the Castle: "Love's Labour's Lost"

August 1: Toasting the Tories

August 21: Doan’s and the Revolution Admission. 84 South Pine Street, Doylestown, PA. 215-345-0210; www.mercermuseum.org.

Newtown Historic Association

June 21: Historic Walking Tour of Newtown

September 16: The Lost Covered Bridges of the Neshaminy Creek

September 22: Tyler State Park SelfGuided Walking Tour

Newtown, PA. 215-968-4004; www.newtownhistoric.org.

Pennsbury Manor

June 16: Open Hearth Cooking-17th Century Puddings

June 16: Juneteenth Celebration

400 Pennsbury Memorial Road, Morrisville, PA. 215-946-0400; www.pennsburymanor.org.

The Friends of Howell Living History Farm

June 29: Ice Cream Party & Wheat Harvest

July 6: Evening Blacksmithing

July13: Evening Animal Chores

July 27 & 28: Mercer County 4-H Fair & Wheat Threshing

August 3: Honey Harvest Beeswax Medallion

August 10: Potato Harvest -Potato Chips

August 17: Canning & Pickling Canning Ring Wreath

August 24: Fiddlin' Contest & Picket

Fence Art Show Tambourine

August 31: 41st Annual Plowing MatchHorse Pin

September 7: Back to School 70 Wooden’s Lane, Lambertville, NJ. www.howellfarm.org.

Fonthill Castle

June 20-21, July 26, & August 9: Fonthill Castle Evening Tours

June 28, & August 16: Coffee and Donuts

July 4: Fonthill Castle 4th of July

August 24: Fonthill Castle Beer Fest East Court Street and Route 313, Doylestown, PA; 215-348-9461. www.fonthillmuseum.org.

Pearl S. Buck House

June 11; July 9: Short Stories Book Discussion Group

June 20: Volunteer Orientation

June 23; July 21: Writers Guild Online

June 26: Living the Legacy Breakfast: 60 Years

520 Dublin Road, Perkasie, PA. 215-249-0100; www.pearlbuck.org

Heritage Conservancy

To find out more or advertise contact..

Vicky Waite 215-480-9675.

June 15: Farm to Table

June 21: Bats Across Bucks County Historic Aldie Mansion, 85 Old Dublin Pike, Doylestown, PA; 215-345-7020; www.heritageconservancy.org.

Heritage Day

July 4: History comes to life in Easton during this free, full-day festival that is perfect for the family. There will be reenactors, musical performances, fun for the kids, and a firework display over the Delaware. Easton, PA. www.heritageday.org.

Historic Bethlehem

Ongoing: Free Sundays at the Museum

July 12-14: Blueberry Festival & Market to Go

September 14-15: Apple Days & Market to Go Bethlehem, PA. 610-882-0450; www.historicbethlehem.org.

Erwin Stover House

July 18: An Evening of Regency Card Games & Gossip (1820s)

August 15: An Evening of Victorian Games & Dance(1860s)

September 19: An Evening of Plein Air Painting & Django Style Jazz Upper Black Eddy, PA; https://www.buckscounty.gov/1570/Erwi n-Stover-Programs.

Bucks County Joyrides

Ongoing: Experience a one-of-a-kind private tour with Bucks County Joyrides! Join us as we explore the area, showcasing scenic landscapes, traversing meandering creeks, and visiting historic covered bridges and landmarks along the way. We do the driving, so you don’t have too! 215-664-7092; www.buckscoountyjoyrides.com.

NATURE

Bucks County Audubon Society at Honey Hollow

Ongoing: Saturday Morning Bird Walks 2877 Creamery Road, New Hope, PA. 215-297-5880; www.bcas.org.

Bucks County Covered Bridge Tour

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.

Churchville Nature Center

Ongoing: Saturday Morning Bird Walks & Sunday Naturalist Walks 501 Churchville Lane, Churchville, PA. 215-357-4005; www.churchvillenaturecenter.org.

Peace Valley Nature Center

Ongoing: Bird Walks, Evening Bird Walks, Moonlight Walks, Naturalist Forays

June 16: Father’s Day Break Fast Run

June 21: Solstice Hike and Campfire

July 2: Back to Nature:Family Camp

July 24, August 28: Yalla Yoga 170 North Chapman Road, Doylestown, PA. 215-345-7860; www.peacevalleynaturecenter.org.

Silver Lake Nature Center

Ongoing: Saturday Morning Bird Walks

June 15; July 13: Moonlight Kayaking

June 22: Kindness Rock Garden Series

July 6: Volunteer Workday

July 13: Family Friendly Intro to Kayaking

July 20: Invasive Plants Removal

July 20: SLNC Earthship Tours

August 17: Kindness Rock Garden Series 1306 Bath Road, Bristol, PA. 215-7851177; www.silverlakenaturecenter.org.

Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve

June 15: 2024 Preserve a Play: Tree

Jamboree

June 22: Knowing Native Plants: Invasive Species ID

June 28: Fourth Fridays for Families: Monarchs and Milkweed with Pam Newitt

July 12: Nature Therapy Walk:ShinrinYoku Experience with Sharon Lohse

July 27: Knowing Native Plants: Meadow Magic with Mary Anne Borge 1635 River Road, New Hope, PA. 215-862-2924; www.bhwp.org.

Ukrainian Folk Festival - Sunday, August 25th

Exciting, spectacular, dazzling, breathtaking, exhilarating, spirited, soulful, enchanting, captivating, and intriguing – modest words which describe but by no means capture the essence of Ukrainian folk art, music, and dance. Ukrainian American Sport Center, Lower State & County Line Roads, Horsham, PA: https://www.tryzub.org/Ukraine-Festival-2024.

Nature & Art

Katharine Krieg, who paints plein air and in her studio, lives where nature and art come together and her radar is always on because she can’t turn off the inspiration

Katharine Krieg has been a professional artist for 30 years, though she really began making art when she was much younger. The story goes that one day when she was little more than a toddler, she disappeared from home. Though she doesn’t remember the event, her mother finally found her sitting across the street where she

was drawing her house.

Still inspired by her surroundings, today she paints rural and marine landscapes and still life at her Green Lane, PA studio.

Her painting style is representational realism with accents of impressionism. She paints primarily in oils, but is also skilled in watercolor and charcoal.

Katharine’s still life paintings are narrative, each telling a story rather than merely showcasing objects. Many of the subjects in her paintings are birds and you get the feeling she knows each one personally. “I haven’t always been bird watcher,” she said, “but have enjoyed connecting with nature my whole life. I love watching and seeing that each bird has a personality.”

The birds are often paired with unlikely objects. They perch on pottery or sit quizzically next to glasses of water, whiskey, beer and even chocolate milk. There’s a softness to their form characterized by fine, controlled brush strokes making them appear incredibly real.

“Birds have fascinated people for eons and people have put them in myths and folklore,” she said. “They bring good luck (or bad) and act as messengers or guides. I like those stories and put some of this into my works. Like hidden eggs for the viewer to find and maybe put their own meaning towards.”

In her painting, Time Capsule, which was painted during the Covid lockdown, there is a nest containing two blue robin’s eggs which she said symbolize her two daughters. The passage of time is a recurring theme in her work.

During the pandemic, she also reconnected with the beauty and history of her immediate surroundings. “I was able to focus on the heritage of this area with its stone farmhouses and scenic countryside.”

Katharine’s landscapes are more direct, most of them painted plein air with looser brush work. She enjoys the immediacy of painting outdoors. “Eyes are much better than cameras,” she said. There’s both history and conversation taking place in a setting which she tries to convey in her work.

Her landscape, Spring Visitor was painted across the street from Phillips’ Mill in New Hope and depicts the English Village that Morgan Colt created in 1915. “He was a painter and an architect who loved the arts and crafts philosophy,” she

said. “I saw the view in the fall but decided to take some artistic license with color to make it a spring scene. I found it a very inviting view and loved the shapes and angles and the way the trees overhang the space … It's nice when color, geometry and organic elements all come together.”

She keeps detailed sketchbooks with notes and plans many of her paintings before they are painted on museum board. Drawing has always been her first love.

The painting seen here, Fountain, was inspired by the 17th century Dutch artist Carel Fabritius whose piece depicts a lifesized chained goldfinch. “His bird was tied to a wall as a pet so I just thought I would let him go free and play in a fountain. Water heals and takes us places,” she said.

Water is a common theme in her work and to paint the still life, “Overflow,” she filled her bathroom sink to the brim. She rolled up a washcloth to simulate the shadow of the Indigo Bunting who perches on the faucet as water spills over. Above the sink is a copy of her daughter’s

childhood drawing.

Katharine was born in Media, PA and raised in Philadelphia. She received her B.A. in art education at Mansfield University of Pennsylvania in 1992. While there she worked as a puppeteer for a professor who made hand puppets and the two would put on shows.

She also received private instruction in the studio of artist Carlo Russo in Philadelphia. In addition, she studied at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Art, Philadelphia, and at Chester Springs Studio, Chester Springs, PA.

She lived in Germany for three and a half years and travelled to other European countries where she saw a good deal of art.

In 1998 she moved to Montgomery County, PA and taught art at several facilities including The Lehigh Valley Charter School for the Arts in Bethlehem, PA for six years. She was also an instructor at Perkiomen School in Pennsburg, PA; at Phoenix Village Art Center, Phoenixville, PA and at Rockport Art Association and

Museum, Rockport, MA. She has been an invited workshop instructor in Pennsylvania and Maine, teaching plein air and studio painting and drawing. Currently she teaches at Engage Art Studio in Schwenksville, PA. She also offers online workshops on Zoom which are posted on her website, www.katharinekrieg.com.

In 2018 she married artist Bradley Hendershot. The two painted on Monhegan Island, Maine for several years and shared a studio there. Today they share their Green Lane studio where each strengthens the other’s work. Neither one is shy about critiquing if something looks askew. Brad paints in watercolor in traditional realist style. His landscapes include scenes from coastal New England, rural Vermont and Pennsylvania. He grew up painting alongside his late artist father, Ray Hendershot, who was a huge inspiration to both Brad and Katharine. “He had such high standards,” Katharine said, “and was the best father-in-law.”

Those standards influence her today as

she discards work she considers below par. They end up in a large drafting drawer called, The Poultry “It’s where the turkeys go,” she said. She often sands over paintings she doesn’t like and reuses the boards. Many of her paintings, including Brad’s and his father’s, are available as prints through Stonerow Publishing, Inc. Started by Brad and Ray Hendershot, the company is now run by Brad and Katharine who make the high quality reproductions in their studio.

Between painting, teaching and the printmaking business, Katharine keeps a busy schedule. In March of each year she travels to Jeffersonville, Vermont for two weeks. The Jeffersonville Rendezvous, as it’s called, attracts artists from all over who congregate there to paint plein air.

Katharine has participated in national as well as regional juried shows and her work is found in collections across the U.S. Among the many awards she has received is the Jane Peterson Memorial Award for continued on page 49

Bucks People

Ken Kaissar’s Lifeblood

Ken Kaissar, who is co-producing director with wife Amy at the Bristol Riverside Theatre, is a playwright, teacher, director and podcaster whose lifeblood is the theater

The spark that ignited Ken Kaissar’s love of and life in theater came from an unexpected source. As a kid, Ken not only laughed and marveled at how the late John Ritter got the guffaws on Three’s Company, he also began envisioning his own future as an actor. “It was his comical skills. It was his physical ability. For some reason, at the age of 9, I could look at that and see that he was doing something very technical to get the result he was getting,” the Yardley resident of 15 years said. “I would sit there, and I would study the episodes of Three’s Company to watch how he moved and what he did. I always remembered my favorite parts were when he somehow got hit in the face. It always looked like he had to sneeze afterwards. It made me laugh so much, and I thought, ‘I want to be able to do that. That’s what I want to do.’”

Theater camp beckoned, and Ken subsequently bagged roles in community theater, including the Charles Dickens’

Oliver Twist musical adaptation Oliver! “I started doing theater outside of my school and getting involved in the local scene from the age of 10. I did that all the way through high school and into college,” the 47-year-old said. “My last public appearance on the stage was the summer before I went to college. From then on, I’ve never been on a stage publicly, outside of a classroom, but I was pretty devoted to being an actor. As you do that, you start to understand all the other parts of theater, like directing.”

Now firmly behind the scenes, he still holds acting dear to his heart and it has served as the springboard for his coast-tocoast career as a director, producer and playwright, as well as an acting coach and host of The Audition Helper podcast (www.theauditionhelper.com). His theater credits have taken him just about everywhere, from New York to New Mexico, but since 2020, he has put down creative roots at the Bristol

Photo: Paul Wesley

Riverside Theatre (BRT) as co-producing director with wife Amy Kaissar.

Moving from a free agent to firmly planted has been a happy leap, he said. “As a freelance artist, I wasn’t sure if that was going to be for me because this is the longest I’ve ever worked in one community at one theater. A freelance career means you go all over the country and go wherever the work is. This feels really good because I’m serving a cause that I see, a need that I see, in a community, that I know. I’ve never had that connection to a community before coming to Bucks County,” Ken, who was born in Israel and moved to the United States, specifically Indianapolis, at age 2, said. “When you’re freelance, you’re doing your own thing and you hope you’re connecting with the people. You never really know because you don’t know the people. Here, I know the people. I know the audience personally. I know what they’re looking for. I talk to them every day about what they’re looking for. It

feels like a dialogue. Bucks County is not just another place for me; it’s home.”

Ken and Amy, who have been married 19 years and share 8-year-old doggie Desdemona, landed in Bucks County in 2009 when Amy took over as BRT’s managing director. The couple decided to stay even after Amy departed BRT and began working on and commuting to Broadway. Ken, in addition to his freelance work, had already begun teaching playwriting and theater history at both Stockton and Rider universities. (He left the positions at the New Jersey schools when he joined BRT.) When the BRT slots opened up, it took a New York minute to decide being executive directors of the theater company, as Ken describes their roles, in a community they love would be the perfect fit.

In addition to the numerous duties of a co-producing director, from hiring to fundraising, Ken, as does Amy, takes directing reins at least once a season. His latest effort was Big: The Musical. In prior

years, he has helmed “Clue,” based on the 1985 film inspired by the board game, and A Few Good Men His comedic play A Leg Up, which had its world premiere on the BRT stage when it kicked off the 2022-23 season, was refined through BRT’s new play development program, America Rising.

Ken’s writing has run the gamut from dramas to black comedies to, as in A Leg Up, farces. His plays have been performed or developed by the Philadelphia Theatre Company; Delaware Theatre Company in Wilmington; The Phoenix Theatre Company; Wordsmyth Theater Company in Houston; Fusion Theatre Company in Albuquerque, N.M.; the Jewish Repertory Theatre in Buffalo, N.Y.; Urban Stages Theater in New York; and Passage Theatre Company in Trenton, N.J. His directing has taken him to New York theaters such as the Culture Project, Rattlestick Theater, The Tank and the American Globe Theatre, as well as Millbrook Playhouse in

Clinton County, Pa. “When I’m not writing, I wish I were, and when I’m not directing, I wish I were. They both really tug at my interests and my attention,” Ken, whose The Audition Helper podcast grew out of his work as an acting coach and where he interviews Broadway actors about the realities of performing in American theater, said.

Also pulling at his attention is crafting each BRT season, as well as the changes happening at the theater. He and Amy put immense care into building and balancing what appears on stage, from classics to family-friendly fare to new plays from emerging artists, and now they are gearing up for a whole new look to the physical structure. The latter will include new seating and carpeting, state-of-the-art lighting and sound equipment, aisle handrails and a ramp that will replace the front stairs, among other revisions. “We want people to know all the programming we’ve always done is not taking a break. While our

construction is happening, the William Penn Bank Summer Music Fest will be happening this summer. We're actually going to be in a different venue. We're going to be performing at the Benjamin Franklin Middle School in Bristol Township, which has a beautiful theater.”

Ken, a 2000 Carnegie Mellon University graduate with a bachelor’s degree in directing and a 2009 Columbia University graduate with a master’s degree in playwrighting, said. “Next season we’re going to do our first two shows at The Regency Room in Bristol Borough. It’s going to be a different experience, a much more intimate experience. Then we’re going to come back to our theater in January and have a spectacular end of the season in a brand-new theater.”

It is obvious the theater — BRT and beyond — is Ken’s lifeblood. So much so that when he wants to unwind he may go to the symphony, read or watch basketball or a movie, but when he truly wants to reenergize he goes to a place

where he can sit, watch and marvel at what is happening right in front of him, just as he did when he was 9 years old. “Honestly, on days I need to really recharge, I go to New York and I see two plays in one day. That just feels like recharging my battery, which seems weird because it should drain me; it should be like working,” Ken Kaissar said. “As a playwright, there are plays I see where I listen to the work and I go, ‘I see how this playwright put this together. This is interesting.’ Then there are plays where I go, ‘This goes against everything I know as a playwright. And it’s brilliant.’ I try to put my mind on trying to study that and find new ways of working and new ways of putting things together. I’m also admiring actors. I love great acting. When an actor is good, there’s very little else going on in my mind other than just admiring their technique and their skill. I basically go and I geek out about actors and enjoy the work they're putting in front of me. That’s what brings so much

joy, I think.”

Bristol Riverside Theatre is located at 120 Radcliffe St, Bristol, PA. For more information, call (215) 785-0100 or visit www.brtstage.org.v

Cynthia Marone is a freelance writer who lives in Philadelphia.

Art

continued from page 45

Still Life from the Hudson Valley Art Association’s 88th Annual Exhibition. She also won Best of Show Watercolor from the John James Audubon Center Annual Juried Exhibition.

Her work is represented by the following galleries: Patricia Hutton Galleries, Doylestown, PA; Strodes Mill Gallery, West Chester, PA; The Snow Goose Gallery, Bethlehem, PA; Rockport Art Association, Rockport, MA; Lupine Gallery, Monhegan Island, ME; Bryan Memorial Gallery, Jeffersonville, VT and the Sidoti Gallery of Fine Art, Rockport, MA. Her work is also available at Katharine Krieg Studio, Green Lane, PA.

Katharine (now 54) has two grown daughters who also pursued art—one studied illustration and the other graphic design and visual communications. “Their artwork looks different than mine but we can speak in similar language.”

Her art is a response to her close observations of nature. “Where nature and art come together, that’s where I live,” she said. A place where, like it or not, she can’t turn off inspiration. “It never lets you be. The radar is always on. The worst thing to happen is to stop growing as an artist. Not feeling the chase or the excitement—to eat, sleep and breathe art. For me art is to make something beautiful that speaks to the soul. I hope to do justice to what I paint.”v

Michele Malinchak is a freelance writer who has a degree in art and enjoys oil painting.

In the Garden /Lori Rose

Meet Sage

Easy to grow in the garden, sage in the past has been used to improve memory, extend life, relieve a sore throat and this aromatic herb adds flavor to almost anything you cook

How lovely it is to savor the fresh flavors from our Here’s a description of the perfect garden plant— a beautiful perennial that grows up to three feet tall and wide and comes in a variety of leaf and flower colors, and is edible. Imagine it in your perennial border, herb or vegetable garden, even in containers. No plant can be all of the above, right? Wrong. Allow me to introduce sage. Native to the Mediterranean region of southern Europe, sage is a strongly flavored, aromatic evergreen sub-shrub of the mint family. Garden sage (Salvia officinalis) is the most common of the

many varieties of green sage and is most often used for culinary purposes. This variety produces purple flowers and gray-green leaves which have a rough, woolly texture. The drier the weather, the grayer the leaves will be. The flowers are clustered together in whorls around the stem tops. The name salvia is from Latin salvere meaning to heal.

At one time sage tea was a popular drink. The Chinese once preferred it to their local teas and exchanged their product with the Dutch for sage tea, bartering on the basis of weight for weight. Sage tea is recommended as a gargle for sore throats and hoarse-

ness. The ancient Greeks and Romans used it as a meat preservative, and they also believed that it could enhance memory. Tenth century Arabs believed it could extend life to the point of immortality. After the Crusades, this belief showed up in Europe as well. Medicinally, sage has the unique property among herbs of reducing perspiration. In Italy, sage was believed to preserve health, and country folk would eat bread and butter sandwiches filled with sage leaves. (Don’t be afraid to try it—it’s good!)

English herbalists believed that sage plants would prosper or fail as the owner's business prospered or failed. It was also said that sage would grow vigorously in any garden where the wife rules the house. It was common then for the husband to prune the garden ruthlessly to destroy any evidence of his subservience. So, keep your sage plants healthy and hide them from the hubby.

Garden sage will grow in almost any well-drained soil in a sunny spot, reaching a height and width of up to three feet. Other varieties include golden sage which has gold tipped leaves; variegated leaf sage which has green leaves flecked with cream; and tricolor sage which produces gray-green leaves speckled with white, purple and pink. These are lovely as accents or grouped together in the garden or container plantings. The golden, purple and tricolor forms also may be used for cooking, but they are not as hardy or flavorful as the green garden sage. Sage continues to grow well with frequent clippings, taking leaves as needed. Prune it down by about one-third after it has flowered to stimulate growth. The leaves make an attractive garnish.

Grow sage with broccoli and other members of the cabbage family. Sage is protective to cabbages and all their relatives against the white cabbage butterfly, and it also makes the cabbage plants more succulent and tasty. It is good to grow with carrots, protecting them against the carrot fly, whose larva attacks rootlets of young plants. Do not plant sage with cucumber,

V IEW S T IN G FAASCINA

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which does not like aromatic herbs in general and sage in particular.

If you’d like to pot some up for the winter windowsill, sow seeds in separate pots or an area of the garden in late spring to early summer. They will still be young and vigorous when you bring them indoors. Don’t forget to de-bug them with Neem oil or other systemic insecticide before bringing them indoors.

You can take sage cuttings any time throughout the growing season. When taking cuttings from an established plant, select newer growth towards the top of the plant rather than older woody growth closer to the bottom. Use clean scissors to cut the stem about four inches long. Be sure the stem has at least two leaf nodes (where leaves grow from the stem). Remove the leaves from the lower two inches of the stem and plant them two inches apart in potting soil. Roots should form in two to three weeks.

Sage is widely used in Italian cooking and is a delicious flavoring for sausage,

When taking cuttings from

brush to marinate meats on the grill, or lay them over the coals to impart a lovely flavor to barbecued meats, fish, and vegetables.

pork, duck and poultry stuffing. Sage helps make meats more digestible. It cuts the richness and fattiness of pork, goose, duck, veal, and other heavy meats. It is also good with rabbit (if you are so inclined), eggs, cheeses, beans, onions, tomatoes, risotto, salads, and pickles. Did I miss anything?

Use long stems of sage leaves as a

SAFE AND SOFT EXTERIOR CLEANING

Remove

Fresh sage can be frozen—place small sprigs in plastic bags to freeze for up to two months. It can also be dried - simply tie a small bundle of stems together and hang them upside down in a cool, dry place. Although fresh sage has a prominent lemon zest flavor that is lost in drying, fresh sage has a milder flavor than dry so you can use more. Check the recipe when deciding whether to use fresh or dried sage. They taste very different and do not really substitute well for one another.

Try this sage pesto recipe from the book Pestos! Cooking with Herb Pastes by Dorothy Rankin for a unique summer supper.

Sage Pesto

1/2-cup fresh sage leaves

1 1/2 cups fresh parsley leaves

2 large garlic cloves

1/2-cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1/2-cup pine nuts or walnuts

1/2-cup olive oil

Salt and freshly ground pepper

Combine sage, parsley, garlic, cheese and nuts in food processor or blender. Process to mix. With the machine running, slowly add the olive oil. Season to taste with salt and pepper and process to desired consistency. Let stand for 15 minutes before serving. Yield about 1 cup.

You can simply use the pesto on your favorite pasta or grilled chicken, or try this delicious recipe with fresh green beans.

Green Bean Sage Pesto Pasta Sauce

1 1/4 cups fresh breadcrumbs (from light whole wheat bread if possible)

1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil

2 cups slender fresh young green beans cut in 1/2-inch dice

4-6 tablespoons Sage Pesto (recipe above)

1 tablespoon butter

1/4 cup finely diced sweet yellow or red peppers (or finely julienned sun-dried tomatoes)

Salt and freshly ground pepper

One pound pasta, cooked al dente

Preheat oven to 300 F. Cut the crusts from a good homemade-type bread and cut into chunks. Process briefly in a food processor or crumble into fine crumbs by

hand. Spread out the crumbs on a large flat pan and toast in the oven until lightly browned, about 10 minutes. Toss with the olive oil while still hot.

Steam the green beans until barely tender, 5-6 minutes. Toss with the pesto and butter while hot.

Add the toasted breadcrumbs, diced peppers (or sun-dried tomatoes), salt and pepper to taste.

Toss with hot pasta and garnish with fresh sage leaves.

In the garden, sage is an old-fashioned, easy-going, colorful plant. On the table, sage will add a gourmet touch to just about any dish you can imagine. Meet sage at your local garden center and you’ll become fast friends for life.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.

WINE TASTING

DURING THESE SUMMER MONTHS

MY wife and I love to drive to the wineries in Bucks County and it’s surrounding areas. We like to go to sample various wines, often ones we’ve never tried. Buck County’s vineyards are exceptional because of the grapes that can be grown here. We are a designated viticultural district, meaning that we have soil that is able to produce a variety of grapes with equal success. One Bucks County winery explains on its website that we are, in fact, one of the few places in the world that can grow these grapes with equal success.

Wine tasting is fun. You get to try a variety of wines and can buy wines based on your tasting experience. Tasting wine does not have to be intimidating. You don’t have to be an ex-

perienced oenophile or sommelier to taste wine. In fact, whether you are a professional wine taster or someone who typically only drinks wine at special occasions, there are five steps to tasting wine. These are known as the 5 S’s of wine tasting. Here are those steps:

SEE: Look at the wine. Notice if the wine is clear and brilliant or cloudy and dull. A wine’s color is better judged by putting it against a white background. Colors give the taster clues to the grape variety, and whether the wine was aged in wood. Typically, wine that had been oak aged is darker in color. The intensity of color within each varietal gives the drinker an idea of how the wine will taste. As a general rule, color saturation tends to go hand in hand with flavor intensity.

SWIRL: Swirl the wine a couple times. Heavy wines will be deeper in color and generally more intense on the nose. Sweeter wines, being denser will leave thick, viscous streaks (called legs) down the inside of the glass when swirled.

SNIFF: Smell is the main sense used in wine tasting, so sniffing the wine before tasting is essential. A wine’s quality can be judged by its nose and taste. Consider what you are smelling. What does the aroma remind you of? Fruits or vegetables? Herbs or spices?

SIP: Take a slightly larger sip than usual and hold the wine in your mouth for 3-5 seconds letting it coat the surface. It is here that the complex taste experience and characteristics of a wine actually happen. Look for sweetness, fruitiness, saltiness, acidity, bitterness, and alcohol. What’s your overall impression? Does any component over power the others or is the wine is balanced?

SAVOR: The finish is the sensation you get from actually swallowing the wine and it can be very different from the taste you get on your palate. What you want to look for is an alcohol taste and the length of time the wine taste stays with you. This length of time is called the finish and some wines can linger for as long as a minute.

Generally we do not follow all the steps above. Trips to wineries in Bucks County and Hunterdon County are dates

Plan to visit a winery this weekend and mark your calendars to visit other wineries throughout this summer and fall

for us. We go to these wineries and order a tasting board to enjoy the wine and the beauty of the Bucks County countryside. Often our tasting results in us buying something different. Trips to Bucks County and Hunterdon County wineries are romantic times when we can relax, enjoy a day, and bring home some exceptional wines made from grapes grown right here in our own backyard.

We’re sure you’ll enjoy the wine tasting guide we put together for you. These fine wineries are waiting for you this summer and fall. Get out there and enjoy!

Wine Tasting Guide

AVIATOR VINEYARD & WINERY

Aviator’s tasting room is located in the hangar at AGA Farms. It’s a great place to spend time with friends and family enjoying some of the winery’s best varietals, including Riesling, Zinfandel, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Rose’, and First Class Cabin - a Cabernet Franc and Cabernet auvignon blend.

BUCKINGHAM VALLEY VINEYARDS & WINERY

Founded in 1966, Buckingham Valley is one of Pennsylvania’s first wineries. Offering more than two dozen wine varieties, ranging from deep oak-aged reds to light whites and Bucks County’s only champagne–all very reasonably priced. Tastings, picnic tables, wine by the glass or bottle. A nice place to visit. www.pawinestore.com.

BISHOP ESTATE VINEYARD AND WINERY

Bishop Estate Winery offers fun to go with your wine, beer, or wine slushy, with 21 wines to choose from, dry to sweet. Do a tasting and find a wine you’ll love. Live music and food trucks on weekends. We are open every day, year-round, with seating inside and outside. Visit www.bishopestatepa.com

CROSSING VINEYARDS AND WINERY

Crossing Vineyards and Winery is tucked away on a 200-

year-old Bucks County estate in the heart of historic Washington Crossing. The lovely grounds offer a unique setting for weddings, private parties, corporate gatherings, wine tasting events, classes and concerts. A calendar of activities, tasting options, pricing and availability is listed at www.crossingvineyards.com.

IRONBOUND HARD CIDER

Enjoy ciders, wines, and cider cocktails, along with a sesonal menuj cooked over open-flame. Shop our store for substainably farmed produce, meats, eggs, and more. www.ironboundhardcider.com

MANOFF MARKET CIDERY

The Manoff family began producing hard cider from fruit grown at their Bucks County orchard in 2018. The cidery makes 13 varieties of dry, sparkling cider with no added sugar. The main varieties are Comfort, Goldrush and Pink Lady. All ciders are matured in wood for 1 year. Learn more: www.manoffmarketgardens.com/cidery.

ROSE BANK WINERY

Located in the heart of historic Bucks County, Rose Bank Winery isthe definition of rustic elegance. From award-winning American fruit wines to fully customizable event spaces,

Wine Tasting Guide

COME AND RELAX!

What a great way to spend the day at Bishop Estate Vineyard and Winery’s fun property! Enjoy the wine, beer on tap,wine slushies, and wine-tasting experiences. On Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays you’ll find food trucks and live music! Bring a lawn chair if the weather is nice! Up to 22 kinds of wine, something for every palette, from dry reds and whites to sweets and fruit wines! Try one of the best sellers, the Dark Bishop Cabernet Sauvignon, a Cabernet aged in a rye whiskey barrel, or the Bee Sting, a dry honey wine infused with jalapeno. Fun, interesting, and relaxing. Visit our online calendar at BishopEstatePa.com to see food trucks and music schedules. Open all year, every day!

2730 Hilltown Pike Perkasie Pa 18944

BishopEstatePa.com (215) 249-3559

Rose Bank Winery is theplace for memories to be made and cherished for years to come. To learn more, plesae visit www.rosebankwinery.com.

RUSHLAND RIDGE VINEYARD AND WINERY

Rushland Ridge Vineyard and Winery has been owned and operated by the Ullman family since 1986. The property is home to 18 grape varieties used to make 16 types of wine. Its Cabernet Franc won “Best Red” in a 2017 Pennsylvania Winery Association contest. For more information, visit www.rushlandridge.com

SAND CASTLE WINERY

Located in Upper Bucks County, Sand Castle Winery is a pioneer in East Coast viticulture. Its mature European vinifera vineyards have been producing world-class wine for over 40 years. Visit our estate to experience not only our products but the property’s commanding Delaware River view. Visit www.sandcastelwinery.com to learn more.

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Frenchtown Riverfest

Frenchtown for the 2024 Riverfest Sunday September 1, 2024. It will span Sunbeam Park, River Mills Courtyard on Bridge Street and the Frenchtown parking lot. This annual street fair celebration of life along the river has been a tradition since 2004. Stroll Bridge Street and Sunbeam Park for a fun filled day of live music, art, food, family friendly activities, and paper boat races with the Frenchtown Vikings, all with an ecologically and sustainability focused lens. Honor the mighty Delaware and join in festivities truly unique to Frenchtown. Details of this event

Doylestown Re-Creation

Opportunities for daydreaming on a bench by a lake, paddling a canoe, hiking or bicycling on a trail through a wooded area are all very available in Doylestown and surrounding areas

By Jerry Osborn

When summer comes I want to go, and I think you probably do too. It’s important to get what we call recreation, meaning re-creation. You see during the winter when we stay indoors we lack sunshine and the kind of exercise that is fun and emotionally satisfying. I know, we go to the gym or workout on machines that look like medieval torture devices, but how much delight do we get in that? So, summer is a time when we can engage in activities that nourish both the body and the soul. We can play outside. And there is no better place to do that than in the Doylestown/ Central Bucks County area. So here are some suggestions about where to go and what to do during those warm summer days.

My first suggestion is to go to Peace Valley Park. To begin with: Do nothing. Walk along Lake Galena on the paved pathway, find a bench, sit there and watch the boats float by. As you begin to get squirmy then maybe take a hike. There are 14 miles

Kayaking, canoeing, or floating on a raft can make you feel new, re-created. You can also go fishing, visit the Peace Valley Nature Center and sign up for Moonlight Walks or just keep sitting on that bench enjoying the sun and watching the fun.

Top, kayaking on Lake Galena in Peace Valley Park. Bottom left, side of Peace Valley Nature Center. Right, at the Pooh Tree in Peace Valley Park.

of trails in this park and you may work up a sweat—it’s summer after all. So take a hike. Or ride your bike. But then you see that big beautiful lake and you wonder, “What can I do to get closer to the water?” Well, those boats that float by—you can rent one or launch your own with a permit. Kayaking, canoeing, or floating on a raft can make you feel new, re-created. You can also go fishing, visit the Peace Valley Nature Center and sign up for Moonlight Walks or just keep sitting on that bench enjoying the sun and watching the fun. Peace Valley Park is located at 230 Creek Road, New Britain, PA.

If you like to pump pedals and grip handlebars, then a great place to go is Chapman Park. There they have a pump track. You can do this alone, with a friend or you may want to do it with a club. If you crave company, check out the Central Bucks Bike Club at www.cbbikeclub.org. They are looking for new members. In fact the Borough of Doylestown has a webpage called Bike Doylestown and it has information about the Chapman pump park and links for the bicycle enthusiast. See www.doylestownbo rough.net/pages/bike-doyles town. A list of all the Doylestown Borough Parks can be found at www.doylestownbo rough.net/pages/parks.

Kids can have a good time at most local parks, but there is one where they can have over-the top fun and that’s Central Park with Kids Castle Playground. It is built like a small kingdom and features buildings that look like a wooden castle with sand surrounding it. There are places to climb, slides, a maze and lots of room. That sand is like a humongous sandbox. Don’t you wish you were still a kid? They seem to have all the fun! Kids Castle is located within Central Park in Doylestown Township at 425 Wells Road, Doylestown, PA. To learn more about Kid’s Castle Playground visit www.doylestownpa.myrec.com/info/facil ities/details.aspx?FacilityID=12833 and also visit www.savekidscastle.org.

Central Park in Doylestown Township, where the Kid’s Castle Playground sits, is

Opposite bottom, the Kids Castle at Kid’s Castle Playground in Doylestown Township’s Central Park.

also a great spot for other kinds of recreation. On the Township website (www.doylestownpa.org/departments/parksrecreation/parks) it says, “Paved surfaces also connect both sides of the park and meander through meadows and wetlands. Flowers, butterflies, bluebirds abound, enchanting both bikers and hikers. It is the start of Circuit Trails network (www.CircuitTrails.org) leading to Montgomeryville and on. A destination for walking and biking and simply enjoying nature.” Doylestown Township has seven parks.

When someone says to me, “Take a hike,” I take it literally. At least I do when thinking about the Doylestown area. Trails in parks and connections to networks of trails can be found throughout the area. Several come to mind. Neshaminy Greenway Trail is considered “a generally easy route” and is 2.4 miles and takes about 49 minutes to finish. Near Fonthill Castle is the Fonthill Park Loop that is 1.3 miles and takes about 28 minutes to hike. A good place to visit for information on hiking in the area that lists the best ten trails in Doylestown is the All Trails website www.alltrails.com/us/penn sylvania/doylestown.

The point is get out there. Get some summer sunshine. There are so many things to do outside in the Doylestown area that build your body, relax your mind and have lots of fun. Besides boating, biking and hiking you can play sports tennis, golf, softball, pickleball, cornhole and the old standards; quates and horseshoes. And talking about horseshoes, there are many opportunities for the equestrian inclined in the area. So get out there re-create your body and your mind. Have fun and enjoy the sun, water, parks, trails that are so close to home.

Jerry Osborne is a Montgomery resident who loves to hike, bike and boat in Central Bucks County.

An Imposing Beauty

It was love at first sight when Peter and Linda first saw this 18th century house in the heart of Langhorne—they were immediately taken by its imposing beauty, historic charm and possibilities

Text by Beth M. Buxbaum | Photography by Randl Bye

A STATUESQUE FEDERAL STONE HOUSE, SITTING AT A CROSSROAD IN THE HEART of Langhorne, catches the fancy of Peter and Linda during their search for a home in the area. Taken by its imposing beauty, they would share thoughts of what it would be like to live there. “We felt a connection to the house the minute we saw it,” Linda explains, “but it wasn’t for sale.”

While only able to judge from the outside, they felt that no house they had seen recently could even touch this historic home’s grandeur. “This house was unique and unlike anything else we had seen in the area,” Linda says, “and we were taken with its elegance.” They looked at a few other houses in Langhorne and in a few neighboring towns but decided to take a break from their search. About a week

In the back yard gardens surrounding the patio, mature trees, boxwoods and a variety of plantings including hostas, hellebores, alliums and camellias accent the space.

later, a fax passed across Linda’s desk and it was “the house.” They were surprised and excited. After longing for this house to be theirs for months, the opportunity was now upon them. Without delay, they went to see the house. “When we toured the house we knew right away it was the one,” Linda adds. In addition to the house’s external appeal, as they stepped inside they knew the interior was perfect. “We are collectors and knew it would be a house that would lend itself to displaying our varied treasures,” she explains.

As avid antique collectors, it was clear to them that this home’s period architectural and design elements would do justice to all of their cherished pieces. “This house has character, with beautiful floors, moldings, a dumb waiter, and other little special elements that you don’t find in newer homes,” Linda says.

Top, steps from the back of the house lead to the backyard gardens and pond. Bottom left, hanging amidst the greenery, this birdhouse waits for feathery visitors. Bottom right, a whimsical frog statue, tucked into the landscape, keeps watch on the back patio.

Top left, this pensively perched gargoyle sits in the garden. Bottom left, a colorful succulent garden takes in the sun. Right, a ram statue sits inside the burst of yellow and red leaves in the knot garden.

Top, an ornamental front gate opens to a walkway to the gardens. Bottom, upon entering the back gardens, the area is embellished with crepe myrtles, hydrangeas and a Japanese maple. Opposite top, steps down from the patio, the back yard is in full bloom with cherry trees forming the backdrop. Opposite bottom, a statue of a whimsical squirrel foraging for his next meal.

One major feature that attracted them to the house was that it had five fireplaces. One fireplace was the original walk-in fireplace in the dining room. Built in 1771, the house’s living quarters consisted of a dining room and kitchen until 1842. At this point the house was expanded vertically; adding four bedrooms with two on the third floor and two on the fourth floor, as well as a bathroom and an attic. In terms of the property, Peter notes that at some point in its history it was a farm, a blacksmith’s housed in the old bank barn and a golf course. “We found blacksmithing tools and slag from the horseshoes in the barn,” Peter adds, and there were also horse drawn mowers in the barn.” Intrigued with its past, both Peter and Linda felt that this property’s long and varied history is part of its unique charm.

Older homes, in general, were a preference for both of them. Peter lived in a converted barn on a farm in New Hope and Linda had an old house in Morrisville. With their appreciation and love for old houses they were excited to be the next owners of this 18th century masterpiece. After a bidding war, they purchased the property in September 1999. Anxious to make this house theirs, they assessed what absolutely needed to be done initially. “The

Part of the 1842 expansion, the second floor living room, is the full length of the house. Surrounded in rich wood tones, the focus of this space is the original fireplace mantle accented with two antique portraits. A second cozy sitting area is in the background.

interior was basic and in good condition,” adds Linda. “This house was always kept in good repair,” Linda continues, “it was perfect and there was nothing we had to do, only what we wanted to do to make it our own.”

Repairs included new windowsills, a restoration of the pumpkin pine floors on the upper levels, and the oak floors on the first floor. The grounds were another story. They spent the next several years cleaning up, updating, planting, and landscaping the yard to make it their own. At the time of their purchase, Linda worked in New York City and Peter was local, so the only time they had to work on the property was on the weekends. Once essential interior repairs were done and most of the “clean-up” was complete, they settled in to their new home.

“We loved the look of the house from the beginning. It’s an antique,” Linda says. Soon after their purchase Linda and Peter shopped for items to embellish their new home. “We spent a week travelling, mostly to Vermont, in our big Dodge Durango filling it with antiques,” Linda explains. Defining and accenting their living space with authentic period pieces and an array of antique collectibles was a finishing touch to enhance their new home’s history. An interesting and unique array of collections is on display throughout their home. One of their favorite collections is their 18th century English tall case clocks, a perfect complement to Linda’s furnishings, a mix of traditional and eclectic. Peter’s oyster plate collections are showcased in several rooms. Early 19th century Sailor’s Valentines, fashioned in a mosaic style with tiny shells, can be seen above the fireplaces.

Peter explains that these 19th-century shell-craft were a sentimental gift made using large numbers of small seashells. These were originally made between 1830 and 1890, and they were designed to be brought home from a sailor's voyage at sea and given to the sailor's loved ones. Peter also has a collection of nautically-themed pieces including scrimshaw and tapestries. Showcasing their antiques was a focus from the beginning. With their love for period pieces, this

Opposite, a view into the original dining room, from the living room, shows the original exposed stone walls and a handsome 19th century French Morbier tall clock. Above, the den is enveloped in walls of windows and overlooks the backyard gardens. This relaxing space is embellished with an eclectic mix of furnishings and collectibles including a collection of antique baskets hanging from the beams.

home was perfect for them to express and showcase their personal tastes and treasured pieces.

As they continued to define their living space, they built an addition onto the left side of the house. “In 2003 we expanded the living space to add a bedroom, sitting room, bath, and private patio for my mom,” adds Linda. This tiny addition was built onto the only area left to add on to.

“This house is set into the landscape with no place to really expand,” Linda explains. When they wanted to create a cozy and inviting space to relax and unwind, they could only reconfigure and refresh existing space. Using a tiny back room, with a gas fireplace, they created a den to add more living space downstairs. “We tore the room down, exposed the original exterior stone wall and started from scratch,” Linda explains. With windows on all sides, this new space brings focus to the grounds. “Now I wanted something to look at through all these windows,” she reveals.

So began a major project to create an outdoor space. “We wanted to make the outside as inviting as the inside,” she adds. Transforming the untamed and neglected landscape was a challenge.

“The grounds were quite a mess,” Linda says, “and the landscape was basically a slope of dirt. We spent hours cutting down trees, building small stone walls, digging bulbs, and planting

Opposite, in the updated kitchen bright pops of color from the red walls to the teal cabinetry add vibrancy to the space. Granite counter tops, tile floors, upgraded appliances and new fixtures refreshed the original kitchen. Top, in the original 1771 dining room is the walk-in fireplace, converted with a wood burning insert. Flanking the sides are antique George Washington end irons and fireplace tools. Above is a display of Sailor’s Valentines. Bottom, central to the 1771 dining room, with exposed beams, is the 19th century French farm table flanked with four reproduction English Ladder back chairs. Color is added with the teal-toned hutch showcasing a collection of Scrimshaw whale’s teeth and oyster plates. Above is a reproduction crystal chandelier.

Above, a closer view of the den brings into view a collection of antique Oyster Plates and Sailors Valentines sitting above the reproduction Windsor chairs. Bottom, a second floor foyer entrance, part of the 1842 addition leading to the third floor, is decorated with a handmade American quilt made by Linda’s mother. Opposite, central to the primary bedroom, in the 1842 addition, is a custom reproduction canopy bed and highboy atop original pumpkin pine floors.

perennials.” While enhancing the landscape’s mature trees and foliage, Linda‘s vision was to have a variety of plants in bloom from spring to fall. “We have an array of perennials including hostas, hellebores and camellias that bloom throughout the season” Linda points out. To add pops of color to the landscape, they have interspersed a variety of annuals. For added points of interest there are small whimsical stone statues and metal garden ornaments throughout the landscape. “Eventually, we hired Twining Gardens, in Newtown, to expand the design of the landscape and care for the gardens,” she continues. To define and enhance the gardens; this space was upgraded with several patios, a Koi

pond, an outdoor kitchen shaded with a pergola.

With the extension of their living space to the outdoors, they were now focused again on the interior. In 2006 a kitchen refresh took place. They enlisted Robert Johnson, of Johnson Fine Furniture & Design Limited, in Pineville, to do the kitchen renewal. “Robert Johnson specializes in antique reproduction and is a fine wood craftsman and cabinet maker,” Linda explains. Johnson also custom built several of their reproduction furniture pieces. With a goal to keep the original cabinets, they had Johnson reface all the cabinets and finished them in teal, and the walls were painted red. “We changed the Formica counter tops to granite, put down tile floors, upgraded the appliances including a reproduction Heartland stove, and added new fixtures,” Linda adds. On display on the backsplash is a collection of antique French cleavers and ivory pie crimpers. Now with a whole new look, accented with a palette of more traditional period tones, the kitchen had a more 18th century appeal.

This original 18th century home, with 19th century expansions, has been authenticated with period embellishments. From

the architectural stylings and design features, to the personal collections and furnishings, Peter and Linda have refreshed, defined and honored their historic home. “Living in this house is a work in progress,” Linda admits. “We take loving care of this treasure and continually update the property and home on a regular basis, whether upgrading, changing, expanding or embellishing,” she continues.

What began as a modestly appointed historic home has been refreshed. Overflowing with color, texture and personal treasures, the interior is a showcase of authentic period pieces and points of interest. As they enjoy a beautiful summer afternoon in the gardens, looking out over their landscape, Peter and Linda are pleased with the transformation. Appointing the interior with all their most precious pieces brings them much joy. On the outside, from an empty lot full of weeds and overgrown greenery, they have most definitely achieved their penultimate backyard oasis. v

Beth S. Buxbaum is a freelance writer from the Philadelphia area.

The View Just Outside Of

TOWN

Top, Stevie and Harley, two horses on a mission. Bottom, an iconic Upper Bucks County Farm.

Photos: Bobby Waite

Top left: newborn calves at Cherry Cherry Grove Farm, Lawrenceville, NJ, Top right, curious horse.Center right, old tractor at Van Sant Airport, Erwinna, PA; Bottom left & right, Bubbly Goat Farm, Stockton, NJ.

Top, Thomas-Neely Farm, Washington Crossing, PA. Center left, Grange Fair, Right, dogs at Bubbly Goat Farm, Stockton, NJ.

Top, Grazing in the field under a rainbow at Spring Creek Farm, New Hope, PA, Bottom left, Cherry Grove Farm, Lawrenceville, NJ, Bottom right, Grange fair.

Summer FARM GUIDE

OUR FARMS ARE NOW OPEN TO US IN

so many different ways. Although we still see the farmstands along country roads with tomatoes, cucumbers, fruit and everything from string beans to broccoli, the newer farm stores now have more than you can imagine: fresh produce, grass fed beef, cakes, cookies, pies, gifts and more. The walking tour of local farms has given way to camps, educational centers for children, petting zoos, playgrounds and all sorts of family adventures. Many farms have opened themselves to the community in a big way.

In rural Bucks County you can visit butcher shops, pick your own fruit, take courses on everything from growing flowers to cooking your own farm-to-table dinners. And yet they are farms—fully functionally farms. When we say grace and thank God for our food, we are also thanking Him for those who grow it. Farmers specializing in growing organic

food are willing to take the risk of not using pesticides, hormones and antibiotics and finding innovative ways to grow delicious produce and raise tender meat. All farmers take risks and are subject to weather conditions, market fluctuations, and a host of other things that make their work sometimes difficult, but they also witness the beauty of producing food and get the satisfaction of people enjoying the fruit of their hands.

Farmers in Bucks County are an important part of our local economy. Along with restaurants that “buy locally” and stores that sell their harvest, our farmers and others in the agricultural market work hard making life in Bucks County better. Besides being a part of the beautiful diversity that includes our towns, scenic vistas and rural countryside, our farms preserve our land and heritage, increase our understanding of nature, nurture families, and provide us with a sense of place. Visit our farms on the following pages this summer.

SUMMER FARM GUIDE

Merrymead Farm is a family owned and operated working dairy farm and farm market. We are open year-round with delicious baked goods from our country bakery, seasonal items in our outside market (flowers, pumpkins, Christmas trees), and premium homemade ice cream! Check out Merrymead’s selection of I.C. half gallons to take home & enjoy with the whole family. Visit the farm animals and see cow milking from our parlor window 3:30PM-6:00PM. Be sure to join us in October for the best season here, Fall! Take the family on a scenic hayride around the farm or enjoy fresh cider donuts before heading into our 5-acre maze. Whether your 9 or 99, come join us in growing memories at Merrymead Farm! Choose from our 32 flavors of homemade ice cream to enjoy on a cone, as a milkshake, or in a sundae!

The Maximalist

Jim Alterman, owner of Ashley John Designs is no minimalist but enjoys looking for quality art and objects from all periods to stock his 40,000 square-foot designer showroom in Doylestown

If you’re in the design business and don’t know Jim Alterman, you ought to. Because his 40,000 square foot designer showroom in Doylestown is a veritable interior designer’s dream. You might say Ashley John Design, named for his 18-year-old twin children, Ashley, and John, is also the offspring of years of collecting—of marrying the past to the present, in a most beautiful way.

From mid-century modern furniture and period frames to renowned art collections and quirky collectibles, every bit of wall and floor space is covered with antiquities and artifacts. With an inventory too numerous to count, Jim can pick up a random vase, look it over and tell you what it is, where it came from and often, the price. There are items equivalent to those found in Christie’s and Sotheby’s Auction Houses and include

collections from important female American abstract painter Mercedes Matter, Gershon Benjamin, an American post-impressionist painter, Pennsylvania impressionists, including one I saw from Edward Redfield, and African American painter, Charles Searles from Philadelphia.

In all, the showroom’s nooks and crannies create 48 vignettes, within 1,000 feet of hallways and aisles, “The design center is geographically laid out like New York City, having Fifth Avenue, Madison, Park and 57th Street going horizontally, with 1st through 7th Streets going vertically,” Jim says, “It makes it easy to navigate the sprawling space.” Everything is comingled, always giving you something new to look at, and I suspect, get you to see it all. If you’re an interior designer, or work with one, chances are, if you’re searching for a fine, rare

or item of a certain vintage, you’ll likely find what you’re looking for. And if not, chances are, Jim can find it for you.

Jim’s view of interior design is certainly not of the minimalist school, where there is little room for conversation pieces, unique finds and Tang Dynasty vases. That, he implies, leaves him cold. “To me, minimalism is a newly overused word, manifested by smart phones and other tech devices occupying people’s minds and brainpower way too much,” he says, “I personally consider myself a maximalist. I enjoy looking at quality art and objects from all periods and love the look of variety in my living and workspaces.”

Jim says that buying a piece of art makes you an art collector. Simple, but he feels younger people would have an appreciation for the beautiful, for the historical, but need to be

Photos: Bobby Waite

There are items equivalent to those found in Christie’s and Sotheby’s Auction Houses and include collections from important female American abstract painter Mercedes Matter, Gershon Benjamin, an American post-impressionist painter, Pennsylvania impressionists, including one I saw from Edward Redfield, and African American painter, Charles Searles from Philadelphia.

exposed to it and learn about it. “There was an uptick in interest from younger people during Covid, when they began focusing more on their homes. “Jim says. Still, he’s taken to QR codes and shooting drone footage of his facility—various ways to get the word out, and that is to visit and visit often.

Jim has been on the 1stDibs website, where extraordinary pieces are showcased, and talk about what’s trending in interior design. He’s also in Incollect Magazine for fine and decorative arts. He knows the value of a catalog—including one he mailed to thousands of top designers throughout the country, as well as a series of drone videos that will be featured in a variety of magazines. But Jim sees his showroom as more— more advantageous for designers and their clients to see and touch things, open up their minds and find items they may have never imagined “My goals are three-fold,” he says, “To feed auctions, create an online store and a design center.” He has seemingly accomplished all three.

“When I was in my 20’s, the successful people in the business were in their 60’s. Now they’re gone.” You might say he has become that generation now, and it’s his job to teach others about the history, beauty, and unique objects that he loves. Set him loose in a fine art and antiques gallery, and he’s on fire. And he comes by it naturally.

Jim has spent the better part of his life finding, collecting, and selling. At age 12, he jumped on his bike, and headed for local garage and estate sales. At the pinnacle of his youth, Jim says you could find great things at great value. He became a runner for dealers—buying antiques at auctions or flea markets and pedaling them to local antiques shops and dealers who he says were too busy or old to go out and do the hunting themselves. “I had learned what certain dealers were looking for,” Jim says, “And what they liked to buy, and would buy accordingly, hoping to sell to them.” And so, he was off.

At age 14, he and his mom, a schoolteacher, accumulated enough inventory to rent a store in Lahaska called Mary Fishers. “The rent was $375 per month, and we split it,” he says.” We were only open on weekends during the school year because she was a teacher, and I was a kid.” But Jim had his sight set on New Hope, where he says all the antique shops were.” Around age 15 or 16, he says The Hunt Brothers, sons of an oil tycoon, cornered the silver market, and metals went crazy. “I was running around buying up things below scrap, as every week gold and silver went higher. I was always trying to figure out how to make money.” So, in 1982, the British pound dropped by half, and he took the $1,900 he had saved up, took

his first trip across the pond, and made friends with the London dealers. He would borrow additional funds at extremely high interest rates, pay them back, and manage to parlay that into 40-foot containers full of underpriced treasures shipped back state side every two to three weeks.

He’s lived at Carousel Farm in Mechanicsville, where he

says, “I converted the 12,000 square foot riding arena into a 45-car garage and 4,000 square foot showroom to accommodate my collections and wholesale antiques business.” Ashley John Gallery in Lambertville is the backdrop for some of his favorite work. In fact, if you find yourself there, you might drop in and see what’s new.

Jim’s proud of the fact that every object displayed is owned, not consigned.

As a resident of Florida as well, after more than 30 years, he still exhibits at the Miami Beach Antiques Show, where he says he walks around and ‘buys people out.’ Like he did at The Flying Crane, dealers of fine Japanese antiques in NY, and Hartman & Rare Art. “There were 35 truckloads that came back to Bucks.” Another was the acquisition of late-century artwork from the prestigious New York Spanierman Gallery—about 7,500 paintings.”

He’s proud of the fact that every object displayed is owned, not consigned. There is straightforward pricing on it all. He says he wants to be upfront with the designers he serves. Then they can work with their clients per their own arrangement. “A good designer should know what they’re buying,” Jim says. And around each corner might be a piece the client likes, challenging the

designer to make it work within their home.

As we parted, I spotted a vintage music box. When I asked about it, he opened it up, told me it was 18th century, cranked it up, and played a beautiful, delicate tune—the perfect ending to the most lovely, educational, and fascinating afternoon spent with one dynamic guy.

The showroom is open to designers and their clients.

There, you will likely find Jim, his design consultant, and his four-legged partner, Mikey. To schedule an appointment, call 267-576-7975 or email info@ashleyjohndesign.com. For more information, visit www.ashleyjohndesign.com.v

Chrysa Smith is a regular contributor to the magazine who loves piddling with design in her own home.

At Home / Henry Crystal

Painting With Preparation

Randy Ziegler, owner of Painting by Randy Ziegler, learned an essential lesson from his grandfather about preparing surfaces and with that he has achieved success in the industry

It all began when Randy Ziegler’s grandfather taught him the proper way to paint when he was a teenager. “My grandfather told me, ‘if you are going to paint something, you must take the time to prepare the surface properly or do not even bother to paint it at all. If you don’t, the finished product will certainly fail in one to two years.’ For 50 years, those words have stayed with me and I have never waivered from them,” Randy Ziegler states. After painting for other companies for 16 years, Randy felt confident to start his own company and has been fortunate from the very start because he already developed a high degree of technical knowledge in the industry.

Randy

In 1989, Randy established his business, Painting by Randy Ziegler, along with Co-Founder Carol A. Pierce. Randy Ziegler practices his grandfather’s maxim to a fault being known for his meticulous attention to detail. “Having an ex-

and Carol A. Pierce

tensive knowledge of available products, when and how to apply them is a standard which I set for myself many, many years ago. With exterior temperatures in our part of the country varying some 90 degrees, a lot goes into making certain that the painted surface remains sound and solid,” states Ziegler. Additionally, Randy states that with his exterior projects, practically 70 percent of the project’s length on every painting and staining project is dedicated to his proper surface preparation procedures.

Painting by Randy Ziegler specializes in correcting a building’s existing coating failures—whether it be painting or staining. As a result of these strict surface preparation procedures, the proof truly is in the longevity of the finished product. “It all comes down to the same thing, not having a sound surface to build upon or not recognizing what caused the original problem will truly ensure a coating failure in a very short order,” says Randy.

Ziegler

left, Painting by Randy

repainted the entire exterior-wooden clapboard siding, all windows, all wooden trim work and all doors of this early 1900’s Victorian. Top right, repainted the entire exterior of this family homestead from the early 1900s—wooden clapboard siding, the walkaround porch, all windows, all wooden trim work and all the doors. Center left, an early 18th-century home with the entire exterior repainted — all window frames, the porch, all wooden trim work and all the doors. Center right, the entire Living Room was painted—all trims, the walls and ceiling. Bottom left, the entire dining room was painted - all trims, the walls and ceiling. Bottom right, in this contemporary home the exterior is re-stained—the old existing stain was completely removed and all surfaces were completely prepared and then re-stained.

Top

Ziegler

THE “PREFERRED CHOICE”

Patios,

Flagstone, Boulders, Brick Stone Veneer

Concrete, Masonry, Excavation

Dumpsters Rentals

Grading, Drarinage, Storm Water Management

3-D Design Services,

Outdoor Kitchens

Commercial Property Maintenance

Randy Ziegler has received numerous regional awards. Randy Ziegler began competing for Community Choice Awards in 2002. To date, Ziegler’s Company has won 68 First Place awards for their services and 47 of these First Place awards were awarded for his painting services.

Randy credits his success to his staff, all of which have a robust work ethic and an ability to listen and learn. He prefers to have a small crew and each employee assigned to their own side or section of each structure. “Potential employees go through a very stringent screening process and are only hired if I feel comfortable having them in my own home performing our services. Additionally, these screenings are also for drug and alcohol abuse, and we do a complete criminal background check. If we need additional help, I enjoy bringing in someone fresh who I can train, so that I do not have to go back and break bad habits that often come with a seasoned veteran. We do not nor have we ever used subcontractors as part of our team.”

Randy excels in sales, project management and being on-site working alongside his employees and is himself an integral part of the team.

Business Manager Carol A. Pierce brings more than 35 years of business experience to the company and has won numerous national awards for her business accomplishments. “I couldn’t run the business without her knowledge and expertise,” Randy says. Pierce is one of 700 to receive the Businesswoman of the Year award presented by the National Congressional Committee’s Business Advisory Council. Pierce received this prestigious award three years in a row—the only years it was awarded. In 2004 and 2005, Pierce received the Ronald Reagan Medal awarded for outstanding leadership in business and for displaying a commitment to an entrepreneurial America. Additionally, Carol A. Pierce served on the Bucks County Planning Commission Board for 16 years—with a perfect atten-

dance record. Prior to that appointment, Carol served on Hilltown Township’s Planning Commission—and was the first woman appointed to that Board. Additionally, Pierce has served another 27 concurrent years while holding a Board of Directors Trustees Seat with three Chambers of Commerce, two cultural institutions as well as a professional painting organization.

Painting by Randy Ziegler’s Services includes exterior and interior painting, pressure/power and soft washing services, window & screen repair, window restoration and repair, historic window restoration services, custom painting, restoration painting, the repainting of aluminum siding, paint removal and striping, exterior

Top left, removed all old/existing paint and then repainted these interior doors. Bottom left, removing old/existing Paint from these windows and then repainted the wooden windows. Right, removed all old/existing paint wooden windows and then repainted the church windows while using our company owned high reach equipment.

staining, wallpaper removal, minor repairs, light carpentry services and painting consultants.

Randy Ziegler has a 1300 sq. ft. temperature controlled, secure workshop which is dedicated to window & screen repair, window restoration and repair, historic window restoration services, as well as the repairing and restoring of shutters and doors. “My workshop allows us to work on these components regardless of the time of year or the weather conditions we are dealt,” Randy says.

From the beginning Randy Ziegler has acquired state-of-the-art equipment, including high reach equipment, high-end power washers and paint sprayers.

“What makes Painting by Randy

Ziegler stand out from the others is the dedication to running a legitimate business, exhibiting excellent business practices and ethics, bringing the highest of workmanship standards, providing exceptional craftsmanship, owning top-of-theline equipment, using only products manufactured in the USA and providing in-depth customer orientation and Service. Ziegler simply approaches his projects much differently from others by bringing high quality standards and state-of-the-art equipment to the table while viewing each project as if it were his own property. Randy’s procedure and product knowledge are things one cannot learn from videos, training manuals, computer programs or books,” says Carol A. Pierce.

The majority of Painting by Randy Ziegler’s projects are in Bucks County and Eastern

Montgomery County and their work focuses on residential and ecclesiastical projects. With all of the wonderful architecture in Bucks County, Randy strives to preserve as much of it as he can while meticulously applying his proper surface preparation techniques. Randy says, “We want to make certain that our work remains great 15 or 20 years from completion. I have many exterior painting projects that have surpassed the 25-year longevity mark. An enjoyable part of my company’s goal is dedicated to preserving our area’s architectural history when providing painting services for structures from the 18th, 19th. and early 20th centuries. These are the structures that add to the charm of Bucks County and make it such an exceptional place.”

Randy says, “We work only on one project at a time and we totally focus on our individual client’s needs and expectations. We do not set any firm time limits on our projects as many of our clients request that we perform additional work, or they will add a totally new project to the list prior to our completion of the first one.”

One of Randy’s favorite projects is the interior of St. Michael’s Lutheran Church in Sellersville. The project began with the unbolting and the removal of all of the pews so that a clear and safe work space was provided. This project included the painting of the 30-foot-high walls and ceilings using their interior high reach equipment. Following his seven-step surface preparation procedures, nearly 100 gallons of paint, using seven different colors, transformed the sanctuary. Randy received a Certificate of Appreciation from St. Michael’s Church for this three-month painting project.

The 2012 Bucks County Designer House was a very special project for Randy Ziegler. It is a story of family promises kept. Randy was hired by the late property owner’s son to prepare, restore

and repaint the exterior of this very large farmhouse, the garage and the barn. This was all done on a gamble and in hopes that this property would be selected, by the Designer House’s Search Committee, as the house for that year. The original property owner served on this committee for many years, and it was her wish that her house would someday be selected as the showcase house.

A standout residential house for Randy is the exterior restoration and maintenance painting project of a home, in New Britain Township, that dates to the 1800s. On the detailed areas of this project all previously applied paints were removed from the surfaces. Ziegler’s company owned high reach equipment was used to accommodate the height of this three-story dwelling with Georgian style columns located at the front and back of the home. Carpentry repairs were performed on the wood shutters, columns, soffits and the fascias of the building. The trim work of this stone structure received over 20 gallons of paint, using three different colors. Several months after completing this large exterior painting project, Randy was contracted to repair and repaint the majority of the home’s Interior.

Randy Ziegler’s company is an accredited business with the Better Business Bureau and has an A+ Rating. Ziegler is active in several professional and civic organizations: The Painting Contractors of America; the PCA Mid-Atlantic Council; the Better Business Bureau of Eastern Pennsylvania; the Upper Bucks Chamber of Commerce; the Heritage Conservancy—Business Partner Program and the Lehigh County Historical Society.

For more information about Painting by Randy Ziegler, contact them at 215453-9345 or 215-340-9943 or visit www.randyziegerpainting.com.

Henry Crystal is freelance writer from Philidaphia

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. Visit Upper Bucks!

Imagine iconic villages surrounded by rolling hills presenting historic stone farmhouses, barns, open space, parks, and it’s very own Vansant airport where you see vintage biplanes fly above the Delaware river. 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!

EVERYTHING SETS US APART

Update your existing cabinets with a high quality factory finish. Custom carpentry, colors and many other design choices are available. No Brushes or rollers. And we do it in a fraction of the time & cost of a full renovation.

• Soffit Removals

• Cabinet to Ceiling trim

• Pantry Walls

• Custom Hood Vents

• Beverage & Wine Bars

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Upper Bucks County

EXPLORE

UPPER BLACK EDDY

Ringing Rocks

UPPER BLACK EDDY: Ringing Rocks

Upper Black Eddy is a picturesque village by the Delaware River which was founded in the 18th century by the Black family who settled in the area and opened a hotel. Named because it is besides the longest eddy (a part of a river that flows against the current) it is also by a section of the river known for its exquisite beauty. It is the site of the bridge to Milford, N.J. and came into prominence as a center of business due to the building of the canal. When visiting Erwinna, you can go to Ringing Rock Park, which is a boulder field of weathered Diabase rocks, some of which ring sounding like a bell when struck with a hammer. It is also the site of the Homestead General Store and the impeccably well-appointed luxury B&B, the Bridgetown House on the Delaware.

Upper Bucks County is full of towns and villages to visit. A whole book could be written on Silverdale, Durham, Hilltown, Springtown, Riegelsville, Richlandtown, Blooming Glen, Pipersville and others. Most of the County’s covered bridges are in this Upper Bucks. In this section of the county life is moving and things are happening—boutiques, galleries, stores and restaurants of every kind are springing up. There are enough parks, lakes, recreation areas coupled with the continual flowing of the Delaware to make Upper Bucks County the ideal place to explore, eat and shop.

Getaway / Bob & Tanya Waite

Pennsylvania Shangri La

Tanya and I are stunned by the beauty, the sites to visit, the hospitality, and historic significance of a region known as the Laurel Highlands, which to us is like going to Shangri La in Pennsylvania

There is a story about a place somewhere on the far side of the Himalayas called Shangri La. There, after days of trudging through the wilderness, explorers thirsty and ready to collapse come over a barren hill and see this virtual paradise on earth where there is plentiful water, trees that are weighed down by bushels of fruit and unmitigated beauty everywhere. The people are friendly, hospitable and wait on these haggard explorers.

Tanya and I have a similar experience. After driving in congested traffic on the PA Turnpike, snacking at rest areas and cruising through tunnels we take an exit and suddenly are overwhelmed by natural beauty—fruitful farmland, rolling hills, flowering trees and verdant mountains with little towns and beautiful lakes. We are in the Alleghenies—in the southern part of the Laurel Highlands—Shangri La for weary travelers.

We reach Addison, a small town of approximately 170 people. It is only several miles from the Maryland border. We arrive at our destination —the Fernwalk Cottage. When we park our car we see a fern garden covering the front lawn. And coming off the beautifully stained deck is the owner, Beth, a Doylestown resident who fell in love with the Laurel Highlands.

Opposite top left, Fallingwater, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and built on a waterfall. Opposite top right, a view of the living room fireplace at Fallingwater. Opposite bottom, Tanya and I are at an overlook in Ohiopyle State Park. Top left, the living room at Fernwalk Cottage. The fireplace, out of view, is on the left side of the room. Center left, dinner entree at the Hartzell House Bed & Breakfast. Center right, a view of the sunroom at the Hartzell House. Bottom, at Fort Necessity in Farmington, Tanya is held at bay by a musket wielding soldier at an exhibit inside the Visitor’s Center.

Tanya and I follow Beth into the house. The house is immaculately neat and organized. Art decorates the walls and it has a kind of rustic chic vibe. It is both cozy, yet has looks like the work of a designer. Beth is so accommodating that meeting her is almost like running into a cousin from childhood we haven’t seen in a long time. Tanya and I love Fernwalk and Beth. Tanya, a hugger from her toddler days, gives Beth a big hug before she goes home.

Tanya starts taking photos. She keeps saying “Thank you Jesus,” as she walks through the cottage, relegating to me small areas so I don’t get in the way.

The kitchen has everything in it needed to cook anything from bacon and eggs to a gourmet dinner. There an island in the middle surrounded by easily moveable chairs, beautiful appliances, organic spices, a Cuisinart coffee maker, every conceivable kind of cookware. The stove is brand new and the large stainless refrigerator has twice the room of our own.

In the living room I say to Tanya, “Check out the fireplace.” She smiles and says in a soft voice, “Nice.” The brown leather couch beckons me to relax. And two rocking chairs make me want to act my age and rock the rest of the day away. Everything is perfect. Also, books are everywhere—in the large bookcase, on the coffee table which is covered with a decorative blanket and on the end tables in the bedrooms. Art is also everywhere, mainly created by local artists.

Windows allow natural light to flow in. The designer shades open and close from the top, and offer privacy when needed and darkness for sleeping. There is a beautiful sunroom that has a computer and printer for guest use.

There are two bedrooms—the Mountain Room and the Meadow Room. The Meadow Room has a painting by BJ Cook, an Addison artist. Both rooms looked so inviting that it is a difficult to choose the one we want to use, but we choose The Mountain Room, because it has its own bathroom with a rain forest

shower. There is another bathroom in the hallway that has a tub.

As we settle in, we realize that we have a reservation for dinner at the Hartzell House Bed & Breakfast, which is less than a block away. Robert, who along with his wife Melissa, own the Hartzell House calls us and asks us to select a time to come in and eat. Hungry, we arrive at 6 p.m.

The owners, Robert and Melissa, give us a warm welcome. Robert shows us the downstairs and we love the spacious sitting areas and the little nooks. There are several fireplaces inside. The sunporch leads to a three-level deck and a path for walking on the beautiful grounds and across the lawn is a lone but very cute cottage that is used to house guests. Potted gardens are in view and outside the dining room is large patio. Robert and Melissa are cooking in the adjoining open kitchen.

We are seated by a large window overlooking the grounds. After being offered wine, we wait for dinner. Relaxed and talkative we drink Rosé and talk about our trip. We reminisce about other travels and wait expectantly for dinner.

We are served a four-course dinner. The first course is an appetizer that has a salami wrapped around shredded carrots with cheese, olives and homemade hot bread. Speaking of the presentation Tanya says, “This is lovely.” I say, “Yum, yum, yum.” She laughs and we ask for more wine. The next course is an arugula salad that is topped with a light vinaigrette. And in Italian tradition our third course is a pasta dish that has fusilli, mushrooms, halved baby plum tomatoes, carrots, arugula and thin slivers parmesan cheese in a crème sauce seasoned to perfection.

The entrée is a sliced stuffed roasted chicken breast with fingerling potatoes, dark meat on the side, cauliflowers, green beans and sliced glazed carrots. It is placed in the center of the table for us to share. It is tender and delicious. I say to Robert, “You are a great chef” and he humbly replies, “I am not really a chef—I just like to cook.”

After a great night’s sleep at Fernwalk

Custom Treehouses

in a incomparably comfortable bed, we get up, get dressed and are out to make an appointment at the Touchstone Center For Crafts in Farmington, PA. There is a morning mist covering the peaks of the Alleghenies. On the way we stop at Fuel Coffee Works where we each order a cup of coffee and take a box of glazed donuts with us in the car. Tanya, who loves glazed donuts, bites into one while sipping her coffee. “Wow!” she says. “These are the bomb diggity! I wish we could get donuts like this at home.” I get the same sensation. Responding to ‘bomb diggity’ I say, “Most of the donuts we get at home taste as old as your slang.” We both laugh and leave the parking lot headed toward Touchstone Center For Crafts.

Arriving at Touchstone we enter the gift shop and browse the artisan lamps, jewelry, forged items, ceramics, craft items in so many media that we are sorry we have a schedule. Tanya actually looks at every piece of jewelry. They carry the work of over 100 artists that includes local and regional alongside national artists.

The executive director, Lindsay Ketterer Gates gives us an overview of what is done at Touchstone. We find out the it sits on 230 acres. Touchstone’s main endeavor is offering workshops. Some of these last a half day, some a day and others multiple days.

The workshops are intensive and for people attending the 2-day, 3-day and 5day workshops it mean staying there. There are cabins where both participants and artists stay and have meals in a group setting. There are work studios in separate buildings and even outdoor classes.

Stefanie Glover, operations and development coordinator, takes us on a tour. The campus is large with many buildings—studios and cabins. She is very thorough. Tanya hits it off with her right away. As we walk she points out various studios and tells us about the large forge they have for blacksmithing. I want to see that, but on the way pollen attacks Tanya. At first it is sneezing, then coughing and by the time we get close, she is having an asthma at-

tack, so we have to part.

The workshops include blacksmithing, ceramics, glass, metals and jewelry, painting and drawing. There are also classes for things like willow weaving, fabric painting and dyeing, sculptural basketry and others. Special programs include events like Kids’ Camp, Date Night. There are also exhibitions and many other things to do. For more information, www.touchstonecrafts.org.

After leaving Touchstone, we drive toward the Ohiopyle State Park. We would like to see Kentuck Knob, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright but we never arranged for a tour. It’s ok because tomorrow we will see Fallingwater, a house considered one of the world’s architectural wonders.

After driving up a road that winds around a mountain, we enter the town of Ohiopyle. This town on Youghiogheny River is beautiful and lively. We see restaurants and several stores to rent rafts, canoes and kayaks. The town is built around white water rafting and outdoor recreation. People come from nearby and far away to bounce down the Youghiogheny.

Ohiopyle State Park is located at the edge of the town alongside the river and there are almost 20 miles of the Youghiogheny River that can be rafted from the park, including the Lower and Middle Sections. Hiking and biking are always very popular activities at Ohiopyle. There are over 27 miles of biking trails and 13 miles of hiking trails within the park, including the Youghiogheny River Trail, which follows the Youghiogheny River. We park and stand on an observation deck to watch the falls and have a photo taken of us by a very helpful teenager.

After staying in town for a couple of hours, we leave and take long rides on small mountainous roads. The beauty is so overwhelming that Tanya wants me to stop every five or ten minutes so she can photograph valleys and tall hills on the other side of passes. We have no idea of where we are going. I forget about the dining experience that we are to have at

Do you have a Check in Your Garage?

deep automotive roots in County and years of collector experience, Steven Saffier can help selling your classic or specialty car through Classic Auto Mall’s renowned consignment program. Or…if you’re looking for that special car, Steve can assist in navigating 1000+ cars at the mall and with the buying process. Conhim directly for concierge-like to discuss your current car(s) arrange for a test drive of the dream car that awaits! classicautomall.com Steven Saffier, Car Specialist Licensed & Insured 267-467-3777 • SteveS@classicautomall.com

Firewater Kitchen + Bar at Deep Creek, Maryland. The restaurant is known for beautiful views of Deep Creek Lake and its fresh-made craft cocktails, craft beers and exceptional dining. We return to Fernwalk for the night.

After dining in and a good night’s sleep, we visit Tissue Farm in Confluence. Entering the coffee shop on the side of a building that once was a car dealership, we smell the fresh ground coffee and look at the large variety of baked goods, thinking of a fast breakfast. We order coffee and raspberry scones. The coffee is aromatic and soothes my early morning desire. The scones are perfect. Tanya says, “These people can really bake!” I ask her if they are the ‘bomb diggity’. She says, “Oh you.”

We meet Pope Pankey, who along with his wife, Suzanne, own Tissue Farm.

Frank Lloyd Wright was the greatest 20th century architect in America and maybe even in the world.

Pope shows us around the larger building where he houses an art gallery, showing some of his own work and changing exhibitions regularly. The big room is also used for community events. Pope and Suzanne are Seattle transplants who decided to move to Confluence and be part of its development into an attractive community.

We love Tissue Farm but need to leave and take a ride back to Farmington to visit the Mount Washington Tavern and Fort Necessity. The tavern is closed when we arrive, so we visit Fort Necessity, where the first battle of the French and Indian War was fought before war was actually declared. We enter the visitor center at Fort Necessity National Battlefield and a ranger immediately begins telling us its story. We are impressed. The life-size soldiers and interactive exhibits makes us want to return. We want to stay but have an appointment at 3 p.m. for our tour of

Fallingwater.

We are both excited. Frank Lloyd Wright was the greatest 20th century architect in America and maybe even in the world. He designed over 1000 structures and 532 were built. His work spanned decades and Fallingwater is one of his greatest accomplishments and the prime example of what he called organic architecture.

Our tour guide, Steven arrives and tells us about the tour, rules for photos and so on. We begin our tour. The gravel path leads us through an area that the Kaufmann family used for recreation. We walked beside Bear Creek and past flowering trees and bushes. Steven told us many stories about this prominent family who owned a large department store in Pittsburgh and wanted to have a getaway home on the acreage which we are walking. Tanya and I ask the guide questions and being very well-informed, he is able to answer them all.

After about 15 minutes of walking we approach Fallingwater a house built over a waterfall. We are dazzled by the water around it, the stream going under it, the waterfall that from some angles looks like it flows out of the house, and the steps approaching this modern world wonder that was designed in 1935 and finished by 1939.

The concrete outdoor terraces seem to hang in space, counterbalanced by the weight of Pottsville sandstone chimney. It is a masterful act of architectural genius, where the outside is brought in and windows are seamless, opening without the appearance of joints. The furnishings include statues, a brightly colored, very long couch and all the rooms connected to the outside. It is important to book a tour online about six weeks in advance to see Fallingwater. For more information, visit www.fallingwater.org.

We have to hurry because we have reservations for dinner at River’s Edge Café in Confluence by 5 p.m. We arrive on time. We are seated by a window that has a beautiful view of the of the Youg-

Considering Private Education?

Although academic outcomes are the main reason to consider a private education for your children, there are also other compelling

By Mary Crystal

The comparisons between a private and public education usually focus on outcomes, specifically in terms of test scores and grades in the next level of education. These are good reasons to send a child to a private school, but they are not the only reasons, and academic performance is not the only reason why parents choose private schools, nor why they choose a particular private school.

A sense of community and belonging is very important to both students and their parents. Public schools offer this through sports and extracurricular activities. Sports get everyone involved, foster school loyalty and a sense of belonging to those who may only know the school song and colors and do not actually play sports. And most private schools have sports and activities that promote school loyalty and a sense of belonging. But there is more to a community than cheering a team.

Real community in a school setting begins with people knowing each other. Private schools have smaller classrooms, which allow even the shyest of students to know the names of others and most

Mreasons

importantly to be known by others. Lifelong friends and future networking often begin at school.

Community, whether big or small is based on a set of shared values. Parents can choose a private school based shared beliefs. For example, religious families can send their children to schools that promote and teach their religion and it values—something a public school cannot legally do. This, not only fosters belonging, but brings together a preexisting community. There are many choices when it comes to shared values promoted by private schools.

Private schools also foster community by specialization. Some schools have a strong emphasis on sports and athletic accomplishment, drawing students who want to excel in these areas. Schools can also emphasize an academic discipline such as math, science and languages. Some schools help gifted students by specializing in music, art, and other pursuits. Specialization promotes community based on common interests and a shared purpose.

Besides community there are choices between consistent

ontessori is not a method. It isn’t a style, an approach or a set of materials. It… rather she… was a person, a physician and researcher, a 19th century girl with a dream who grew up to be an indomitable woman, a voice of reason in a dehumanizing industrial age, a reformer who challenged institutions and governments to look carefully at the young souls around them, to see their faces hope and their innocence, and to offer them the dignity and compassion that we all deserve.

Maria Montessori. In 1896, she was the first woman to earn her Medicinae Doctoris (with distinction) from the University of Rome. Industrial Europe’s appetite for coal was exceeded only by its appetite for working-class males whose 12 hour days six days a week kept factories running. Boys were expected to follow their fathers into the workhouses. Prussian-model factory schools prepared them for that work, separating them from their families at 6 years old, dividing them by age, and confining them with an instructor whose primary job was to produce compliant young men. After nearly a hundred years of this type of compulsory servitude, boys (being boys) had become unwilling to cooperate. In response, city officials began arresting dissenting youths, deeming them “incorrigible”, and sentencing them to… (wait for it)… factory work.

In 1897, Maria chose to spend her residency years working in the relatively new field of psychiatry. “My colleagues,” she wrote, “are far too ready to apply medical treatments to children whose only illness seems to be that they are too healthy to be treated as slaves. We have raised children instinctively for tens of thousands of years. Surely that process is not broken.”

And so began the mission that would consume the remaining 55 years of her life. From her first days as a public health physician at Rome’s San Lorenzo tenement in 1907, Dottoressa Maria Montessori was drawn to the work of restoring, protecting and enhancing the natural processes that drive human development. An insightful systems thinker with a singular aptitude for research, Maria produced hundreds of intricate, elegantly designed works and lessons for children ages 2 through 12, offering her world (and ours) an organic, holistic view of the wonders of early childhood. It’s our privilege, our pleasure and our passion to study and practice Montessori at Maria’s House Doylestown. The children around us are remarkable, always curious, constantly becoming. They truly are our heroes.

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educational philosophies. This has to do with how a parent wants their child educated. An example is Montessori education, which is based on eight principles that Montessori schools put into practice. Other philosophies may include classical education, progressive education and so on. The point is that private schools have the ability to adopt and be consistent with a particular philosophy of education, and well-informed parents can choose among these philosophies and methods.

Finally, there is no doubt that private schools have an edge when it comes to academic outcomes. U.S News reports, “The most recent NAEP data shows what other research has found: Private school students score better in almost all subjects … On college entry tests such

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as the SAT, NAIS found that students in private schools consistently outperformed their public-school peers in all subject areas.”

Students attending private schools make up 25 percent of all students. They are there because of parental choices based on intangibles like community, values and a sense of belonging, and more tangible things such as smaller classrooms, more individual attention, better academic outcomes, specialization, and choices between educational philosophies. Private schools offer parents and students more choices and better outcomes. v

Mary Crystal is a freelance writer who specializes in business, education and public relations.

MA Walkeer, Laine k NBCT ,

George School

At George School, we’re brighter together. Our academic experience for students in grades 9–12 is a collective effort to cultivate each student’s highest ambitions. The George School Academic Program re-imagines the school day. It empowers teachers to be bold, creative, and collaborative. It empowers students to choose their own challenges: the IB diploma, IB courses, APs, adventurous opportunities for global study, artistic expression, service learning and more. The result: an education that gives students the freedom and the support to become their most authentic selves.

Our graduates go forth with a lifelong connection to George School and apply what they've learned—core values, adaptability, transformative habits of heart and mind—to advance the common good. As mentors to current students, as facilitators and leaders in organizations and communities across the country and around the world, they're living proof that we're brighter together.

v1690 Newtown Langhorne Road, Newtown, PA 18940 215.579.6547 • www.gerogeschool.org

Notre Dame High School

Notre Dame High School has been providing excellent education since 1957. We challenge students to think critically, imagine, and engage in extraordinary moments, resulting in new levels of understanding. Our curriculum offers diverse academic opportunities, including hands-on learning, AP courses, and internships. Whether interested in arts, science, economics, or something else, our faculty and staff are committed to your success, helping you chart your course to college and beyond.

At Notre Dame, we believe in preparing students for a life of purpose built upon the foundation of the Catholic faith and a commitment to service. Our students experience breakthrough moments daily in the classroom, on stage, in the athletic arena, and in the communities we serve.

We take pride in our academic excellence, reflected in our SAT, ACT, and AP scores, which are well above the national average. 98% of our graduating seniors go on to higher education, including some of the nation's finest colleges and universities, with millions of dollars in scholarships. At Notre Dame, we believe in the power of hard work and dedication, and our students learn that diligence has its rewards.

Notre Dame is located on 100 beautiful acres in Lawrenceville, New Jersey, just five miles from Princeton and a short trip over the bridge from Bucks County.

Newtown Friends School

Newtown Friends School is a private independent school serving pre-kindergarten through eighth grade students in historic Newtown, PA. We give students throughout Bucks County and nearby New Jersey communities an exceptional academic foundation, stimulating enrichment opportunities, and an affirming campus community that builds confidence and inspires a love for learning. Students and their parents find Newtown Friends to be a place of warmth and acceptance where they can truly feel at home.

Open to families of all faiths, Newtown Friends School embodies the timeless Quaker traditions of simplicity, peace, integrity, community, equality, and stewardship — values that prepare our students to make a difference in the world.

Villa Joseph Marie

illa Joseph Marie is a private Catholic college-preparatory high school for young women located on 55 scenic acres in Bucks County. The Villa experience is fully focused on the needs and strengths of young women, empowering them through exceptional expectations and support. With small class sizes, Villa delivers a global education on a personal scale, developing women with character, confidence, and a passion for learning. Life at Villa is filled with friendship and fun, enriching extracurricular activities, local and international travel, and opportunities to serve. Whatever the challenge, Villa girls work together to exemplify the Villa mission—Always more, Always better, Always with love.

Nazareth Academy High School

Nazareth Academy High School is the only private, Catholic high school for young women in Philadelphia. Offering more than 40 clubs, 12 athletic teams, and 10 performing arts groups, Nazareth Academy empowers its students to develop their interests and become lifelong learners in a global society. Young women who attend Nazareth live out the school’s mission each day by embracing faith, family, and education as they are challenged to attain their full potential academically, spiritually, and personally. For more information, visit NazarethAcademyHS.org/Admissions, or contact Ms. Ashley Figaniak ’08, Director of Admissions, at 215-268-1026 or at Admissions@NazarethAcademyHS.org.

Buckingham Friends School

At Buckingham Friends School, an independent K-8 school, we believe deeply that each individual, at every age, offers unique and powerful promise. We cultivate that promise through our flexible and responsive curriculum, within our comprehensive specials programs that add breadth and depth to their individual learning experience, across our expansive 44-acre campus that encourages play and risk-taking, and within a diverse and inviting community. We are excited to get to know you, and discover together how your child can thrive with Buckingham Friends School. Individual Promise. Inspiring Curriculum. Inviting Community.

The best way to truly understand our community and what BFS can offer your child is to visit our school. To learn more, register for an open house, or schedule personal tour, visit www.bfs.org or contact our Director of Admission and Financial Aid, Melissa Clayton, directly at mclayton@bfs.org.

Bucks County Community College

The Right Choice for Students of Every Age and Every Stage of Life

If you are a high school student looking to apply to college, this can be a new and daunting experience. Do not worry, we will make it easy. If you are an adult learner returning to college after any number of years out of school, you are not alone. If you have been out of school for a couple of years but want to train for a new career in the skilled and industrial trades, we are here for you.

At Bucks, we provide a diverse community of learners with exemplary, accessible educational opportunities and the personal connections that foster success by offering college/university transfer degrees, occupational degrees and certificates, indemand, short-term workforce programs, robust student support services, more than $350,000 in scholarships available, 15:1 student-to-teacher ratio, unmatched value, three locations + online.

Whatever your background, and wherever you want to go, Bucks can help you change your path today.

To learn more, call 215-968-8000, or visit bucks.edu/change.

With our commitment to the truths of our Catholic faith, augmented with the classical education model, we are shining a light into the darkness that has overtaken the secular world of education. When knowing, loving, and serving God becomes integrated with the pursuit of knowledge, a student is launched on a journey for truth, beauty and goodness. Faith and reason combine to propel our children to see the “WHY” of existence, not just the “What”. They become the lights that overwhelm the darkness as they grow into light-filled virtuous leaders.

BUCKS COUNTY SHOPPING

precious

Stones & Pearls.

carry many different fashion Brand Jewelry including Pandora, Lafonn, John Madeiro, Kelim, Uno de 50. Hook Bangles and Citizen, Philip Stein and Liminox watches.

Real Estate at the Jersey Shore

BUCKS COUNTY MAGAZINE HAS COMPILED A LIST OF TOP NEW JERSEY SHORE

REALTORS WHO CAN HELP YOU FIND THE PERFECT PURCHASE OR RENTAL

FROM BEACH TOWNS UP AND DOWN THE JERSEY SHORE

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 cabins. Some vacation there every year and others simply go for daytrips. But more and more Bucks County residents are buying properties for investment as well as permanent residents at the shore, and many want beach front properties too.

So, we decided to find of some of the top realtors on the Jesrsey Coast to help you with renting this summer or buying your own getaway or your retirement home.

The market is changing everyday so plan your trip with one of the agents listed here. It’s very important that both sellers and buyers use a professional real estate agent.

We found agents that listing properties from Spring Lake to Cape May and everywhere between. They are experienced and have helped many find their dream home, retirement home or dream vacation rental.

If you are unfamilar with the shore areas, try staying there for a few weeks and enjoy a vacation while visiting the towns and beaches theres. Rent a beach house and drive to all the neighboring towns. This way you can get a real feel for the area and where you would like to buy a home.

So venture out the Jersey Shore this summer and if you are ready to see a few properties be sure to contact one of these experts to help you.

JERSEY SHORE REAL ESTATE

1029 S. Shore Rd, Marmora, NJ

WATERFRONT Fresh Water Spring Fed Lake, this 6 acre lake with all its natural beauty. Egrets, Great Blue Herons, Swans, Canadian Geese, Otters, Big Mouth Bass, Blue Giles and more. Private Estate sits on 11.44 acres, the home is a Georgian Colonial style that boasts the architectural design of Red Brick, symmetrical windows and dormers. Beautifully landscaped, large open two-tiered brick paved patio areas for entertaining, brick BBQ grill, bridge over pond leading to huge gazebo for morning coffee listening to songbirds and/or evening cocktails. Inground pool for hot sunny days. Plenty of building with workshop, barn, garden shed and more. A Must-See Property! Great Airbnb history. $1,800.000.

Maureen Harris, CRS, GRI Cell: 609-972-7524

CENTURY 21 GILMARTIN & CO maureenharrisc21g@gmail.com www.maureenharris.com

Unparalleled Luxury at the Jersey Shore

Available Month of September!

Enjoy your September on this MAGNIFICENT MANTOLOKING ESTATE. Private... Elegant...and having everything you need to escape & spend the best month of the Summer at the Jersey Shore. Stay longer if desired & enjoy this 6 bedroom, 8 bath private HAVEN surrounded by water & tranquility. Property is a sanctuary for birds & other wildlife. Home features a first floor suite with doors that open on to a deck with picturesque water views. Also, a Chef's kitchen, huge island, two dishwashers, 2 sub zeros, two dining areas, butler's pantry. Living Room and separate cozy Library with large TVs and fireplaces for those chilly September evenings. Hardwood flooring throughout. Full bath off the heated gunite pool area for convenience. Docks equipped to hold many boats. BREATHTAKING SUNSETS. Holly-MacPherson.weichert.com

JERSEY SHORE REAL ESTATE

Last of 6 New Homes Available on the street. This end unit has Ocean & Bay Views,, state of the art home has been very popular with its wide open layout and fantastic finishes. Park your car and walk to everything. This super efficient home is designed to comfortably enjoy w your family or would be a very strong rental for +/$6,000.00/week. Has a fantastic private ground level open layout for entertaining. 3 floors of decks including the large rooftop deck that you will be on all day. With interest rates still affordable, now is the time to secure your piece of the Jersey shore. Still time to pick your colors. Walk to beach, boardwalk, rides, amusements and shopping. 1 hr from NYC, AC/Philly. Go to documents tab for the plans and standard finishes. Move in for the Summer. Easy to See.

Jersey Cape Realty Rental Team

HealthyLiving

WHAT IS HAND ARTHRITIS?

What is hand arthritis, and how does it present?

• Hand arthritis occurs when the smooth cartilage that covers the bone surfaces at the joints wears down over time.The process tends to happen gradually, and it may eventually result in the development of bone spurs, joint deformities, and intermittent pains.

• The most commonly affected areas include the joint closest to the fingertips and the thumb base, where the thumb and wrist come together. Hand arthritis can cause stiffness, swelling, and pain. It can become increasingly difficult to perform even simpler daily activities, like tying shoelaces or opening jars. Patients often complain of pain at nighttime, which can disturb sleep.

What causes hand arthritis?

• Arthritis can be related to overuse of the hands, but family genetics plays a large role in developing arthritis. Arthritis can also occur following fractures that involve joint surfaces and other conditions, such as gout, psoriasis, and infection.

What can a physician do to help?

• A hand surgeon can order x-rays to confirm the presence of arthritis. Special x-ray views may be helpful to determine its severity. More sophisticated studies like CT or MRI scans are rarely necessary.

• If the arthritis is especially painful, treatments like anti-inflammatory medications, splint immobilization, corticosteroid injections, and possibly surgical treatment can be offered. Non-surgical treatments should always be attempted first. Using a

topical anti-inflammatory gel and a nighttime splint can provide immediate benefit before more aggressive treatments are needed. Corticosteroid injections can provide intermediate pain relief, but the effects usually fade after several months.

• Surgery should only be considered if non-surgical options have not helped.

How can surgery help?

• Though surgical treatment may require temporary immobilization followed by extensive therapy, pain relief and return of function are generally predictable following surgery and should allow patients to regain their way of life.

• One type of surgery involves fusion of the affected joint.The worn cartilage at the bone ends can be removed and the bones fused to one another, which would eliminate joint motion but would also improve pain levels. Another option involves reconstruction of the affected joint using a synthetic implant or a tendon graft. The type of reconstruction would depend on the joint involved.

Dr. Eon Shin is an Orthopedic Hand Surgeon with the renowned Philadelphia Hand to Shoulder Center and an Associate Professor in Orthopaedic Surgery at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital. He cares for patients with hand, wrist, arm, and elbow injuries and chronic conditions in his Langhorne, Pennsylvania, office. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Shin, call 610-768-5959 or visit www.Hand2ShoulderCenter.com for more information.

Dr. Eon Shin is an Orthopedic Hand Surgeon

HealthyLiving

SUPERIOR CARE CLOSE TO HOME

Doylestown Health is a comprehensive healthcare system of inpatient, outpatient, and wellness education services connected to meet the health needs of patients and families, from birth through end of life. Renowned locally, regionally, and nationally, our flagship Doylestown Hospital, offers advanced surgical procedures, innovative medical treatments, and comprehensive specialty services.

What began with a single visiting nurse over 100 years ago has grown to become a center of excellence. Doylestown Health’s integrated network of more than 435 physicians in over 50 specialties provides high-quality healthcare, delivered with compassion and expertise, close to home. Our dynamic and dedicated primary care physicians have locations across the region, and in 2023, Doylestown Hospital joined the Philadelphia region’s teaching hospital ranks, educating and training the next generation of physicians through our Family Medicine Residency Program.

Ranked as one of the World’s Best Hospitals by Newsweek and 8th in Pennsylvania, Doylestown Hospital is a beacon of excellence, distinguished in both infection prevention and patient experience.

Doylestown Hospital is among only 70 hospitals nationwide and the only hospital in Pennsylvania to earn 16 consecutive Leapfrog “A” safety ratings. Doylestown Hospital also achieved the “High Performing” distinction, the highest awarded by U.S. News, for Colon Cancer Surgery; Heart Attack; Heart Bypass Surgery; Heart Failure; Hip Replacement; Knee Replacement; Leukemia, Lymphoma, and Myeloma; Stroke; and Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement. Doylestown Hospital is also proud that 97% of our patients would recommend us to friends or family – a distinction that only three acute care hospitals in the greater Philadelphia area earned, according to the most recent Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems.

Doylestown Health is proud to be the first choice of families in our region at every stage of life. Whether you’re expanding your family, choosing a new primary care physician, or taking control of your health by scheduling an important health screening, we’re here for you, every step of the way. At Doylestown Health, our focus is you. Learn more at www.doylestownhealth.org.

HealthyLiving

THE POWER OF TOUCH

By Susan Sandor

Breema is new to me. The Center for Breema in Oakland, California describes it as a simple, natural form of touch and body movement supported by universal principles. This modality of touching and stretching felt intimate, although not sexually, but certainly sensually. It awakened more than ever my whole perspective on being touched by another human being. I was deeply moved by the experience, so much so that I sat crying in my car after I left. I’ve been touched. I’ve been touched rang in my brain. Whether you are connected to another person and often touched or flying solo as I am, who has less human contact, it was unlike any other treatment one can undergo. The practice recommended to me by a friend is called The Fifth Element in Lambertville, New Jersey. I knew from the first visit that I was in the right place.

While I was standing at the bar at Stella, a restaurant in the Ghost Light Inn in New Hope, I was mesmerized watching a man nearby stroking his seated partner’s long, straight, chestnut colored hair. Her back was turned to me so I could not see how this affected her but I could see his profile and the pleasure registering on his face. I kind of shared his response.

On a freezing January evening, when the temperature dropped to the teens with snow and ice on the ground, I stood alongside a woman as I waited for the valet parking man to retrieve my car and she waited for her husband. She asked why I wasn’t wearing a hat. She was not wearing one either. We both came to the quick conclusion that hair was more important than keeping our head and ears warm. As the wind whipped our hair around our faces, she wrapped her arms around me. We huddled as if we were best friends. The feeling shot through me with happiness that a complete stranger would even consider such a gesture. Why are there not more people doing the same? This took place at the entrance to the Logan Inn in New Hope.

A manager/bartender at Heart of the Oak Pub in Buckingham, which I’ve been patronizing for some time now, asked if I owned a cer-

tain designer belt. Huh? No, I did not own a belt by that particular designer. He said a belt was found beneath the chair on which I sat at my last tasting of their superb carpaccio. He insisted I take a look at the belt and sure enough it was mine. He simply had the wrong designer in mind.The belt was part of my late husband’s wardrobe and had more sentimental than monetary value. It fell off my waist because I was wearing it on trousers without belt loops. When I returned for my next carpaccio fix, he reached across the bar and extended his arm to me for a warm handshake. That brief human touch made me smile and we’ve been shaking hands ever since.

A friend, who was going through a greatly contested divorce, came to visit. During our time together she learned about another incredibly obnoxious thing that her husband had done concerning their two boys and she was actually traumatized. I am glad the news came at a time when I was with her to hug and rock her while she screamed and cried. I believe that episode bonded us together with a kind of glue that will always stay affixed.

There are spa treatments that have the same effect. I booked a body polish and butter wrap at Zanya Spa Salon in Lambertville, New Jersey.Treatment began with my lying on a hot steam tent covering my body while being given a scalp massage. After the aromatherapy steam treatment, the aesthetician rubbed and scrubbed my entire body with an emulsion of sea salt and sugar. A warm water rinse followed. I was then toweled dried and led into another room to be slathered in an organic shea and cocoa butter cream and wrapped in plastic, which generated heat and helped to conduct the moisturizer into the skin. While resting in the wrap, another scalp massage ensued.Although my fine hair was like a bird’s nest afterward, there is nothing more you can do except submit to these sensational touches.

So as AT&T once advised, reach out and touch someone. It can do both of you a lot of good.

NURSE ELDER CARE ADVISOR

Whether it’s your spouse, your parents, your partner, a close family member or a friend, professional guidance by a registered nurse elder care advisor with specialized geriatric training on the health and well-being of seniors will assist you in navigating your “golden years.”

Choosing to work with Future Health Now, an elder care advising firm located in Doylestown and learning about the wide-ranging options is the first step towards your peace of mind allay fears and relieve stress by providing expert advice, support and advocacy to bring clarity to any situation.

The services offered by Future Health Now include: designing a plan of care; guiding to appropriate community services; referring to legal and financial professionals; mediating toward resolution of family conflicts about care options; and serving as the point-of-care nurse advocate providing clarity about medical diagnosis and treatment plan options, to performing medication review while advocating for the best clinical care outcomes for your loved one.

Throughout the ever changing challenges of caring for elders, consider consulting with Future Health Now’s Alesia DeFrancesco, RN elder care advisor and health care advocate for the advice you need finding the best path forward toward the optimal health and wellness you desire for yourself or your loved one. Together with you, Future Health Now will tackle the tough decisions that need to be made to obtain the right care in the right setting at the right time. We come to your home, facility or hospital.

Alesia A. De Francesco RN is President & CEO of My Future Health Now. She is an elder care advisor/healthcare consultant. To schedule an appointment, call 215-872-6155 or visit www.myfuturehealthnow.com.

Construction is complete on 30 NEW Independent Living Suite Apartments. This includes a limited number of 2-bedroom, 2-bath suites with a den. Many of these suite apartments have already been reserved. NOW is the time to reserve YOURS!

To schedule an appointment to tour our model apartment or learn more, please contact Mary Thompson at 215-956-1802 or mthompson@christshome.org.

HealthyLiving

RSURPRISE PINNING BY GRANDMOTHER

achael Martin’s graduation from St. Luke’s School of Nursing (SON) took a surprising and heartwarming turn when the 23-year-old’s grandmother Peggy Hoffman—a 1958 SON graduate—rose to her feet to join in the traditional “pinning” ceremony. Pinning is the symbolic ceremony of welcoming graduating nurses to the caring profession, which has been deemed the most trusted in the world.

Peggy Hoffman, Rachael’s role model, had worked and taught nursing students at the St. Luke’s Bethlehem Hospital and at Northampton Community College before starting a family. “She’s has always been very important to me and influenced me to become a nurse,” said Rachael, who is now a Registered Nurse working in the emergency department at St. Luke’s Anderson Campus.

Unknown to Rachael, a 2018 Palisades High School graduate who lives in Riegelsville, her mother, Becky Martin, and grandmother were planning to surprise Rachael when she received her School of Nursing pin. As the pinning ceremony got underway, each of the 52 graduating nurses was pinned by Alyssa Villegas, MSN,

one of their instructors. All eyes were on each student on the most important day of their educational journey.

When it was Rachael’s turn to have her St. Luke’s School of Nursing pin attached to her uniform collar, Villegas surprised her. “She told me ‘You’re going to give this pin to the woman standing down there,’” pointing to Rachael’s smiling grandmother, standing at the bottom of the stage, alongside Rachael’s mother and Aunt Janine Harris, a nurse anesthetist who came to the ceremony from her home in Colorado. “It was such as surprise!” she recalls.

Hoffman pinned her granddaughter, gave her a hug and kiss, and the audience erupted in applause. “I cried,” said Rachael. “My grandmother cried, and I think the entire audience cried!”

The surprise was the emotional high point for Rachael and her family—and quite possibly for everyone there. In that memorable moment, the nursing history in that family was extended to another generation who got her start at St. Luke’s School of Nursing, the longest continuously operating nursing school in the country.

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CARING FOR WOMEN

Trinity Health Mid-Atlantic offers a wide array of comprehensive services for women’s health that are easy to access across our health system. Locally at St. Mary Medical Center in Langhorne, Pa., our team is committed to caring for women through every stage of their life. From routine visits and breast health to childbirth and surgery—you can rely on Trinity Health Mid-Atlantic’s experienced and compassionate OB/GYNs and other medical professionals for whole-person, whole-life health care.

Women most often require care from obstetrics and gynecology physicians outside the general scope of primary care.The Trinity Health Mid-Atlantic team at OB/GYN Langhorne is a top choice for gynecology services and family and maternal planning. In addition to general OB/GYN services, St. Mary Medical Center is proud to offer prenatal and breastfeeding classes, as well as a full suite of educational workshops by appointment.

Maternal planning and finding the right doctor to help you on your motherhood journey is essential. Recently, expert OB/GYN Sarah Goodheart, DO, joined the Trinity Health Mid-Atlantic Medical Group serving greater Bucks County at OB/GYN Langhorne and OB/GYN Feasterville. Dr. Goodheart is a trusted and respected physician who has delivered hundreds of babies throughout her career.To begin your journey to motherhood with Dr. Goodheart or learn more about maternity services at St Mary Medical Center, visit www.trinityhealthma.org/maternity.

Goodheart, DO,

Sarah

At St. Mary Cancer Center, we underst a have to travel the world to get it. That’s support right here in your area, from ad v more than a patient; you’re a neighbor w

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in the world isn’t helpful if you cancer diagnosis, treatment and d therapies. Because to us, you’re

HealthyLiving

ALTERNATIVE APPROACH TO AGING

When facing the challenging decision about where you or a loved one can safely and joyfully live during the later seasons of life, clearly most people want to remain in their home or be somewhere they can truly call home.A place where independence is valued and life is enriched by new friends and a warm dedicated staff. Somewhere that one can get the care and attention wanted and needed, while meeting one’s heart’s desire for a new home that offers privacy, a chef with specialized menus and delicious food, an array of supportive services and a full range of great activities on site. This place is waiting for you nestled on a lovely wooded 20-acre lot on the outskirts of the bustling town of Lambertville.

Lambertville Estate is a personalized, intimate living environment designed for all stages of senior living. It is a non-medical community for elders. It supports memory and personal care at a staffing ratio half that of traditional institutions so that care is often at times as close to 1:1 ratio as possible—avoiding paying high agency premiums in your home or other care settings.

The Estate residents enjoy private rooms, chef-prepared meals and all the comforts of home with daily activities that meet a wide range of abilities and interests.

If what you are looking for is a high-end homelike setting where you can have peace of mind knowing that you or your loved one will be cared for and treated like family, let Lambertville Estate be your next move.

For more information call 609-460-4497 or email lambertville36@gmail.com or visit www.lambertvilleestate.com.

Senior Living at it’s Finest

Whether care is being delivered in the home or in the facility, we can help. Together with you, we will tackle the tough decisions that need to be made in order to get medical clarity. We not only help you get answers, we provide solutions. Call today for free phone consultation with an RN. We offer onsite assessments. Available 24/7

HealthyLiving

Led by locals with first-hand experience of the health benefits of cannabis use, Union Chill Cannabis Company is the region’s premier locally owned—and Lambertville’s first—dispensary, and it’s quickly becoming a hotspot for cannabis education.

In fact, it’s not uncommon for new customers to seek out recommendations on using cannabis for various health needs, whether it be for sleep support, stress and anxiety relief, alleviating chronic pain or even boosting mood and serotonin levels. Many Americans even rely on cannabis to treat medical conditions like epilepsy and multiple sclerosis or manage the side effects of serious diseases like cancer.

Cannabis products with higher CBD levels can provide significant sleep aid. A naturally occurring compound found in the cannabis plant, CBD is not psychoactive and doesn't produce the “high” typically associated with cannabis use. Its anxiety-reducing properties can calm the mind and reduce feelings of anxiety that may interfere with sleep. Some studies even suggest that CBD could potentially help regulate sleep patterns and affect the duration of REM sleep. This ultimately promotes quality sleep and a more consistent sleep schedule, making it a favorite among many who struggle with poor sleep and insomnia.

Union Chill also offers an extensive range of products comprised of different strains with varying THC levels and terpenes. THC, the primary psychoactive compound found in the cannabis plant, creates the euphoric “high” feeling many know and love. Strains with a balanced THC:CBD ratio can curate the perfect blend of calming sensations with euphoric mood boosting properties, without an overwhelming high.Terpenes, aromatic compounds found in cannabis, can yield uplifting and mood-enhancing effects.

CATARACT SURGERY WITH A PERSONAL TOUCH

After having increased difficulty with sight Dr. Stanley Sliwinski, MD realized it was time to consider cataract surgery. His first choice was Eye Associates of Bucks County (EABC) where Dr. Sliwinski had been a patient of Dr. Sagun Pendse for several years. His decision to have cataract surgery with EABC was based on his relationship with Dr. Pendse and his previous relationships with other physicians at EABC.

Preferring a no-pressure atmosphere, Dr. Sliwinski discussed his surgical options over several visits before making a final decision. Based on the need to address his changing vision, he and Dr. Pendse discussed the procedure and decided that a Monofocal lens would provide the best outcome. Prior to and after his surgery, Dr. Sliwinski says that he experienced great care and personal attention from the staff at the office and surgery center. Dr. Sliwinski also said that the surgery was a remarkable success, his vision has improved, and his eyesight is back to where it was when he was 20 years old. He reports, “I am incredibly happy with the superior care I received and the successful surgical outcome. I applaud the staff at Eye Associates of Bucks County and the surgical center for their attention to detail.”

Wondering if cataract surgery with EABC might be right for you? Consider that EABC has been serving the Langhorne area

for over 40 years and is a leader in cataract surgery. EABC uses the latest technology and lenses to improve and preserve sight. At Eye Associates of Bucks County, Dr. Pendse and his fellow physicians believe that every decision should be informed and personal, they dedicate themselves to pro-

tecting, improving, and preserving eye health for each patient. If you would like to be involved with making an informed decision about your eye health, call Eye Associates of Bucks County at (833) 921-6200 or visit www.centerforeyes.com to schedule an appointment.

THE COMPUTER FOR YOUR EARS

By Dr. Patrick M. Murphy, Au.D., M.Ed., CCC-A, FAAA

The connotation of a hearing aid used to be an amplifier which projected noise and whistled when old people wore them. This is far from the truth today. Hearing aids have progressed from ear trumpets to small box transistor amplifiers with wire from a pocket to the ear to high tech devices with miniaturized computer chips. Better hearing is available for everyone

from a board certified & licensed private practice audiologist. At your scheduled appointment, this professional will perform a complete audiological evaluation with case history. This session takes about thirty minutes. The results will be reviewed, and professional recommendations provided. If amplification is warranted, your audiologist will display and discuss the array of styles for

the manufacturer’s models. Once the selection is made, paperwork completed, and deposit placed, your order will be issued to the manufacturer.

Approximately two weeks later a fitting will be scheduled. Your evaluation is entered into the computer, devices placed on your ears, program calibrated, and subjective adjustments are made.Your audiologist will provide counseling and aural rehabilitation to ensure the best fit possible. You are starting a thirty-day evaluation period. During this period, your audiologist will continue to review progress, concerns, and adjust your acoustic preferences for better hearing.

Digital hearing aids are designed to be sleek, modern, and functional for comfort and durability. The technological advances in speech processing maintain audibility and intelligibility in all listening environments centered upon the person’s hearing loss. Essentially, the devices contain a ‘brain’ to perform millions of calculations per second. This new smart device provides clear sound while reducing distractions with the microphone cover to limit wind and touch noise. It increases focus with the microphone placed at an optimized angle to enhance directionality and improve performance.

Convenience is the objective in better hearing. A rechargeable option is available enabling 37 hours use with the improved battery life. The portable charger is mobile and capable of providing five full hearing aid charges before requiring the unit to be recharged. The devices contain a button to change volume or programs as desired. An app on your smart phone allows you to control a wide range of functions including program changes, individual volume, frequency equalizer, streaming, and handling calls.

Your better hearing is a phone call away! Dr. Murphy’s office is located at 330 North Main Street, Doylestown, PA. To schedule an appointment, call 215-230-9000 or visit www.murphyhearingservices.com

Customers who are seeking an elated, mood-boosting cannabis experience should chose strains with higher levels of terpenes, such as limonene and pinene.

Union Chill ensures that every customer finds the answer to address their individual health needs. Those interested in exploring cannabis are welcome to meet with one of Union Chill’s knowledgeable budtenders. Consult with your healthcare provider before beginning a cannabis health plan. Your doctor's guidance, combined with Union Chill’s expertise and quality products, ensures that you receive the support and care you deserve on your wellness journey.

Union Chill Cannabis Company is located 204 North Union Street, Lambertville and offers free on-site parking in its handicap accessible lot, located off Elm Street. Learn more about Union Chill at www.unionchillco.com.

HealthyLiving

Union Chill Cannabis Company

HealthyLiving

MAMMOGRAMS

AT LOWER BUCKS HOSPITAL

While your family may not have a history of breast cancer, it is still important to prioritize your breast health. Lower Bucks Hospital offers a range of comprehensive services, including mammograms, 3D mammograms, and breast MRIs, to ensure you receive the best care possible.

What exactly is a mammogram? It's a low-dose X-ray can detect small abnormalities in breast tissue long bethey can be seen or felt. Regular screening mammograms are crucial for the early detection of breast cancer, making it easier to treat.

3D mammography is the cutting-edge technology in screening, providing higher-quality images and greater accucompared to traditional methods. This leads to fewer positives and missed diagnoses, which is particularly beneficial for individuals with dense breast tissue.

For those at an average risk of breast cancer, annual mammograms are recommended starting at age 40. Depending on your risk factors, your doctor may suggest earlier screenings or additional tests.

Remember, early detection from mammograms can truly save lives. Don't make excuses; make that appointment. Lower Bucks Hospital is located at 501 Bath Rd, Bristol, PA. Call (215) 785-9343 to schedule your visit, and let's work together to beat breast cancer.

COMPREHENSIVE HOME CARE SERVICES

LCHS offers reliable in-home personal care services, 24/7 live-in care, concierge transportation, case management, home modifications and many more supportive services to families in our Bucks County communities. Call today! We take the worry out of caring for someone you love.

THE DOG HOUSE

The Dog House is a first-of-its kind holistic canine wellness center offering enriching experiences for dogs and their owners. It is the only place local families can bring their dogs for specialized services including rehabilitation, sports medicine, enrichment daycare, and even swim lessons, sessions, and parties.

Spanning more than 10,000 square feet, this state-of-the-art new facility features fenced-in indoor and outdoor recreation areas, a swimming pool with kayak, and calming care and quiet rooms.

The Dog House is the vision of Jenny Witthoff, VMD MS, a veterinarian, Fear Free Certified Professional, and lifelong dog owner. Jenny has been providing focused, individualized care that’s unlike traditional veterinary practices. Jenny set out to create a modern facility and educational community where dogs can engage mentally and receive the care, training, and safe recreation they need to thrive—and their human companions can gain peace of mind knowing their pets are cared for from snout to tail.

“There’s nothing like the unconditional love of a dog, and we want to help dog owners return that love and strengthen that bond by keeping their dogs healthy and happy,” Witthoff said. “In all of our facilities, services and care, we strive for optimal health and wellbeing for dogs and peace-of-mind for their human companions.”

“Dr. Jenny has done an incredible job creating a haven for dogs to heal, play, and learn. Not only is the staff knowledgeable, caring, and passionate about dogs, the facility is like no other. It even has a heated swimming pool,” said Doylestown resident and BrownDog-

Rehabilitation

Inspired by veterinarians' need to extend their care, a highly trained, experienced team of specialists creates a personalized regimen of therapeutic interventions tailored to each dog’s needs, from recovering from surgery or injury to overcoming behavioral challenges.

Doggie Daycare and Enrichment

A daycare program like no other includes brain games, agility training, and even swimming provided in small groups with individualized care and attention to ensure a stimulating and safe experience—whether occasionally or every day.

Training & Education

Brain games, agility training, and even swimming are provided in small groups withindividualized care and attention to ensure a stimulating and safe experience.

The Dog House Doylestown is a unique and exciting wellness facility offering dogs and humans an enriching experience in rehabilitation, doggie daycare, training and education, and overall health and well-being.

For more information, call Jenny Witthoff at 267-626-7700 or email her at fun@thedoghousedoylestown.com. Registration, reservations, packages, and pricing for all services can be conveniently booked online at www.thedoghousedoylestown.com.

Design owner Chanin Walsh, whose pup Keva was one of the first to take advantage of The Dog House’s daycare.

Restaurants with Taste /

Frank D.Quattrone

Chez Daniel

Carved in wood on one of the walls at Chez Daniel is an arresting map of the world. It serves as an apt metaphor for the extensive influences that have shaped the worldview and culinary legerdemain of Chef-owner Daniel Gras. Open only since January of this year, Chez Daniel is a warm and cozy restaurant in Frenchtown, N.J., with a strong French accent, complemented by an enticing mix of Irish, Creole, seafood, and vegetarian items.

Daniel’s culinary roots extend to Bazancourt, France, where his grandfather was the chef-owner of a charming little restaurant. The journey to America began when Daniel’s father, who was also born in Bazancourt, a village near Reims in the Grand Est region

east of Paris, saw an ad for a bakery in Cape May, N.J. Ready for a new adventure, this classically trained French baker then moved to the popular seaside resort to open the bakery he called Chez Michele.

That’s where Daniel Gras grew up, baking bread and cookies with his dad, until, at the age of 15, he started working in Cape May restaurants. His mornings began as a breakfast cook in a pancake house, followed by a gig in an Italian restaurant in the evening. Always in quest of new experience, Daniel has also manned the kitchen at Cape May’s Merion Inn; summered at a friend’s Japanese restaurant in Sea Isle City; served as executive chef at the Dubliner on the Delaware and eventually at Fiona’s in Frenchtown.

He polished his practical culinary talents

at prestigious Johnson & Wales University, where he earned degrees in Culinary Arts and Food Service Management.

Fittingly, he has transformed the Irishthemed Dubliner into his French-fusion first restaurant, Chez Daniel, where his guests couldn’t be more pleased by the eclectic menu. Holdovers include the Frenchified appetizer Pommes Darphin “Boxty,” a crispy potato pancake spiced with chives and served with applesauce and sour cream; and the entrées Shepherd’s Pie, made with fresh ground USDA Choice beef, fresh herbs, spring peas, carrots, onions, and mashed potatoes, and the ever-popular Fish & Chips, made with Smithwick’s beer-battered fresh Alaskan cod, served with house-cut fries, tartar sauce, and coleslaw.

Photos: Paul Wesley

But on the evening of our visit, Eve and I opted to try an informal tasting menu of the chef’s (and patrons’) favorite dishes. For our appetizers, we enjoyed a flavorful Butternut Squash Salad, with roasted butternut squash, pomegranate perils (just listen to these rubyhued seeds pop), pecans, beets, and goat cheese over a bed of spinach kissed by a creamy maple dressing; and the deceptively simply named “Scallops,” a perfect variation on scallops wrapped in bacon, with panseared scallops dressed comfortably with bacon lardons (small strips of lean bacon) and brown-buttered pecans in a butternut squash puree, with a nice portion of house-cut Pommes Frites on the side.

As we digested our amazing appetizers, our adorable and perky server, Emma Merritt, regaled us with fond memories of her former service with the chef at Fiona’s and Dubliner’s. But next, it was time for our tasting portions of three of Chez Daniel’s finest creations. Our entrées happened to include three of Eve’s favorite dishes.

The first was a fine regular menu item— Braised Short Rib, served with a bacon-onion jam and demi-glace, butternut squash puree, mashed potatoes, and seasonal vegetables (nicely charred carrots and asparagus). The chef also presented us with two of his exquisite weekend specials—peppery Arugula Pesto Halibut served over rice pilaf, and Rack of Lamb, panko-encrusted and served over mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables, in a rosemary garlic jus.

Although we were enticed by the Chocolate Caramel Coffee Cake, Fruit Tart, and Mango Crème Brûlée on the dessert menu, we were fortunate that Chef Daniel had decided to send out his famous Carrot Cake instead. His father’s own recipe, it was a delightful sweet treat topped with a cream cheese icing, with huge fresh strawberries on the side.

As talented as Daniel Gras is, the man couldn’t be more humble. He told us he is “never satisfied. I always try to get better. I’ve learned that the more you know, the less you know”—his mantra for improving his approach to the culinary arts. He’s been gradually introducing vegetarian and gluten-free items (clearly identified on the menu) and plans to begin weekend brunches (including four variations on Eggs Benedict) sometime in the next few weeks.

The seven patio tables will offer guests a neat view of a bustling curve of Frenchtown’s

lively business district as they enjoy their Brie en Croute (brie wrapped in puff pastry, with fresh fruit and berry coulis), Pear Salad, French Onion Burger, Jambalaya, Ratatouille, or Mushroom Bourguignon Stew. But it doesn’t really matter when they arrive or what they order, as Chez Daniel offers an unpretentious fine dining experience without the fuss or price.

Don’t miss it! This one’s a keeper!

Chez Daniel, 51 Bridge Street, Frenchtown, N.J. ; 908-628-9602; www.chezdanielfrenchtown. com

open Wednesday & Thursday, 12–8 p.m.; Friday, 12–8:30 p.m.; Saturday, 12 a.m.– 8:30 p.m.; & Sunday, 11 a.m.–6 p.m. Lunch served until 4 p.m. Dinner: 4 p.m.–closing. Closed Monday & Tuesday. BYOB. Reservations accepted.

Getaway

from page 115

hiogheny River. It is hyperlocal and we love it. I order a steak and Tanya has crabcakes. We both enjoy our meal. The people are unpretentiously friendly from the waitress to the owner, who visits our table and chats with us. Outside are people dining al fresco—socializing and enjoying themselves.

We leave after dinner to spend a night at the Hartzell House Bed & Breakfast in the Patriot Suite. Robert and Melissa welcome us back. They both smile when they see us. The Patriot Suite is street level. It has its own refrigerator outside the room. This large room is colored in restful hues of blue and gold and furnished with Mission-style oak pieces and two comfortable club chairs. It is large and the bath has a sitting area and a rainforest shower. Tanya would like to stay forever and she is not a bed and breakfast lover. Our breakfast is as amazing as our dinner two days ago. I choose the savory and Tanya the sweet. We want to come again.

As we leave we say reluctant goodbyes to Robert and Melissa. We drive home ready to fight the Harrisburg and Philadelphia area traffic buttressed with fond memories of the Laurel Highlands.v

Bob Waite is the editor of Bucks County Magazine and Tanya is his wife, travel companion and the co-writer of this department.

ONLINE DINING GUIDE

County Fare /Diane Cercone

Pizza On The Move

Giancarlo Truppi has a pizza truck with a fitted with a classic Neapolitan dome-designed wood-burning oven and is ready to bring the finest Neapolitan pizzas to your outdoor parties

Joey on Friends said it. And Vito on The Sopranos was heard hurtling the same phrase in the heat of an argument. The phrase they uttered, vá fa Napoli, translates to “go back to Naples.” But the intended meaning—sending the recipient to a very hot spot—has not only snowballed into a derogatory curse but has also tarnished all that is Neapolitan. This was too much for Giancarlo Truppi. His father was born in Naples and his mother’s parents also came from the city, known for centuries as a city prized for its history, art, culture and cuisine.

But how to change the perception of vá fa napoli? To Giancarlo the answer lay steeped in his family’s Neapolitan roots—beginning with one of Naples classic culinary creations: pizza. Along with his father, Carlo, and his mother, Faith, Giancarlo started making not only the best pizza this side of Naples, but also incorporating the culture and flavors of Naples into every bite.

And thus was Vá Fa Napoli Pizza born.

At first it started as a way for family and friends to gather safely around their outdoor Neapolitan-styled, wood-burning pizza oven in their back yard during Covid, Giancarlo says. What

Photo: Paul Wesley

started as a way for a few close family members and friends to be together, as word spread, he says, it soon became a magnet for more friends, family and neighbors to join in their open-air pizza parties.

The year was 2020. It was also the year Giancarlo graduated from high school. Instead of taking on-line college courses due to Covid, he gravitated to helping his good friend and professional chef, Keith Taylor, who was helping other chefs and restaurants transition to takeout and pop-up restaurants.

After successfully helping his share of restaurants, including his cousin Gabriella Truppi’s ice cream parlor, Humdoo, in Flemington, Giancarlo persuaded his parents to take their Neapolitan pizza-making skills on the road. Literally—from their back yard to yours.

Wasn’t long before they had a custom-made mobile pizza truck fitted with a classic Neapolitan dome-designed wood-burning oven that could burn at 900° F. Properly equipped, they started bringing their wood-burning pizza oven to clients’ backyards and lawns for outdoor parties and celebrations.

Ever since he could remember, Giancarlo says, his father was always creating Neapolitan dishes he learned from his mother and nonna (grandmother), including making pizza. Giancarlo recalls spending many happy days helping his father in the kitchen. Working together, they now have a menu of three standard pizzas: Classic Margherita, The Marinara and the Vegan Marinara.

The Classic Margherita is simple but elegant. Though pizza has been made in Naples since 1000 A.D., it wasn’t recognized as a coveted culinary creation until June 11, 1889, when a local pizzaiolo, Raffaele Esposito, created a special pizza in honor of King Umberto I and Queen Margherita’s visit. Made with only ingredients depicting the three colors of the Italian flag: red (tomatoes), white (mozzarella) and green (basil), the queen declared it a favorite. Esposito quickly named it after her and it has since been known

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world-wide as the Neapolitan classic pizza alla Margherita.

For their Classic Margherita, the Truppis start with their homemade San Marzano marinara sauce (The Base) and add fresh mozzarella, aged Parmigiano Reggiano, fresh basil leaves and extra virgin olive oil (EVOO). Known as the original “tomato pie,” the Marinara also starts with The Base, adding fresh, sliced garlic, aged Parmigiano-Reggiano, fresh basil leaves, dried oregano and EVOO. The thought of offering a vegan version would level most seasoned pizzaiolos like deflated dough. But not Giancarlo. After testing several, including running them by his sister, Silvana, a staunch vegan, he found Violife’s vegan mozzarella to meet his standard of taste and quality. (Vá Fa Napoli Pizza dough and sauce are always vegan.)

Along with Vá Fa Napoli’s three classic pizzas, they offer 13 specialty ones at last count. But knowing Giancarlo and his dad, they’re always open to new creations, challenges and suggestions.

Many of the specialty pizzas, Giancarlo’s says, were inspired by the family dinners his father made, as well as other Neapolitan classic dishes such as the Shrimp Scampi Pizza. A fresh garlic, EVOO and butter sauce creates the base which is topped with both fresh mozzarella and parsley and generously studded with their signature shrimp scampi. Another family-inspired pizza is Nonna’s Sunday Special, which boasts a ricotta-stuffed crust and homemade meatballs. The meatballs are slowly cooked in their homemade “Sunday” sauce which simmers for four hours.

dive, the Truppis encourage their client’s guests to break off a piece of the crust and dunk it into the sauce before digging into the pizza. Now that’s amoré!

Another Neapolitan-inspired classic is Nerano pizza. In his popular TV series, Searching for Italy, Stanley Tucci showcases this namesake pasta featuring zucchini. In their take, the Truppis top the sweet and succulent zucchini sauce with fresh mozzarella, aged Parmigiano Reggiano, Caciocavallo (a prized cheese from the Naples region) and EVOO.

No pizzaioli’s weight in dough would be worthy without a white pizza. Vá Fa Napoli gins up their Bianca with their signature whipped ricotta cheese as its base. Then crowning the ricotta-covered dough with fresh mozzarella, aged Parmigiano Reggiano, fresh garlic, their signature slow-roasted mushrooms and white truffle oil. Need I say more?

main elements of Indian cuisine with that of Italian. For example, the Makhani sauce ( butter-chicken sauce) is a blend of aged Parmigiano-Reggiano, fresh mozzarella and house made paneer sauce. For his Orange Curry base, he combines fresh mozzarella (and like all Vá Fa Napoli Pizza’s mozzarella, it’s from Lebanon Cheese Co. in New Jersey), Parmigiano-Reggiano, spicy peppers and chili infused in olive oil. The Tandoori base is an ambrosial mix of yogurt, smoked mozzarella, aged Parmigiano-Reggiano and (if not vegetarian, optional chicken pieces) and Indian spices. But, then, the Truppis honor all dietary requests as well as welcome culinary challenges such as the Vegan Marinara and Indian/Italian Pizzas. Last year one of their clients asked if they could create a Potato Pizza for their wedding which had a St. Patrick’s Day theme. No problem. Giancarlo and his dad delivered. They created a potato sauce base inspired by the Neapolitan dish Pasta e Patate (pasta and potato). They’ve even created pizzas for clients using special, spicy peppers and vegetables from the clients’ gardens.

Many of the specialty pizzas, Giancarlo’s says, were inspired by the family dinners his father made, as well as other Neapolitan classic dishes such as the Shrimp Scampi Pizza.

Vá Fa Napoli Pizza is a far cry from just a food truck. It’s a culinary trip to Naples with all six senses fired at full speed. It’s the enticing aromas, watching the pizzas rise and blister in the 900°F oven, talking with Giancarlo and his family and asking questions as they make the pizzas and the umami pleasure of holding and then biting into a hot, crusty, full-flavored pizza slice while swaying to the beat of music playing. Just don’t be surprised if you and your guests end the evening with a rockin’ tarantella.

Along with the meatball topping, the triumvirate of Italian cheeses (fresh mozzarella, aged Parmigiano Reggiano and aged pecorino cheeses) are added. The stuffed crust (another of Naples’ culinary crowns) invokes the tradition of scarpetta (little shoe), the scooping up of the last bit of sauce left with bread after the pasta has been devoured. For a full Neapolitan deep

Then there are those inspired by other cuisines, such as Giancarlo’s take on Mexican Street Corn, Chicken Buffalo Ranch, Makhani Paneer, Orange Curry and Tandoori.

The latter three were inspired by clients who were either celebrating a birthday or traditional Indian engagement parties. Giancarlo masterly marries the

For with Vá Fa Napoli Pizza, you don’t only hire a food truck and caterer, you become family. Molto bené!

For more information call 908-3031951 or visit www.Vafanapolipizza.com.v

Diana Cercone is an area freelance writer who specializes in food, art and travel.

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.

Erini's contemporary, Mediterranean infused menu is served in an upscale yet casual atmosphere located by the Delaware River.

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.

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, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday 5–9 p.m.; Sunday 4–8 p.m. closed Tuesdays. Reservations accepted. Accepts Visa, MC, and American Express.

La Villa Pizza and Family Restaurant

21 S. Pennsylvania Ave., Morrisville, PA 19067; 215-736-3113; www.lavilla-restaurant.com

La Villa is a family owned and operated restaurant. You will always receive the

4 Unique Patios and Tiki Bar.

Dining Out Guide

NON SOLO PASTA

Cucina Napoletana & Vini Since 1996 900 West Trenton Avenue • Morrisville, PA 19067

CARRY OUT WINE & BEER

most pleasant and quick service. We offer the best in Italian Cuisine. Everything is prepared from scratch, from our Bruschetta to our Fettuccini Alla Villa. We have Trenton tomato pies. BYOB. Hours are Sunday Thursday 10 a.m.—10 p.m.; Friday & Saturday 10 a.m.—11p.m. Weekday buffet 11a.m.—3 p.m. Major 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 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.

Tonys Place

1297 Greeley Ave, Ivyland, PA

Dining Out Guide

Country Inn Serving Fine & Casual Fare

We invite you to sample freshly prepared seasonal specials…

Come

and

Closed on Mon. & Tues.

Reservations Appreciated 610-847-2662

Rt. 611 and

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.

Water Wheel Tavern 4424 Old Easton Road Doylestown, PA 215-348-8300

www.waterwheeltavern.com

Water Wheel Tavern is an historic Bucks 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.

Staying Fit at Any Age

LET’S TWIST AGAIN LIKE WE DID LAST SUMMER

by Vicky Paraxismos Waite

In 2017 I interviewed John Abdo, the inventor of the AbDoer 360 which was a hit with me and many others. I still have my AbDoer 360 to this day. I wanted to interview John again on another one of his other creations— the AbDoer Twist. I was sad to hear John had passed away a couple of years ago. John was a health and fitness expert, businessman, nutritionist, motivational speaker, and a TV personality. He was a strength and conditioning coach for numerous US Olympic Teams. John was inducted into the Fitness Hall of Fame for his work in the field of health and fitness. He wrote several books on fitness motivation and health. He surely accomplished a whole lot during his time here. He will be missed by many. In honor of John, it makes it that much more appropriate to review his AbDoer Twist this issue. My girlfriend and her husband have the AbDoer Twist, and they rave about it. I made a date to meet with Barb and Ken. I know what you're thinking. Nope it's not Barbie and Ken it's Barbara and Ken. I just want to clear that up. I did meet up with them both and the AbDoer Twist looks a lot like the original AbDoer 360, except it is a different color. Overall, the AbDoer Twist is a low intensity workout that burns approximately 4 to 5 calories per minute. While most ab exercises only train your front abs.

I get myself seated on the AbDoer Twist with the design dual roller foam pads that roll to rub and knead the back muscles. I am getting a total spinal back mobility to the body for natural movement. The contouring seat is engaging in all my muscles surrounding my back and spine. It’s swivel action targets the pelvic, buttock, hips and legs. And because you are properly aligned and supported, you will use these muscles effectively with less stress and less pain. The AbDoer Twist is made from heavy gauge steel with multiple resistant options. Contouring arm bars on the sides are designed to rid of stress on your hands, wrists, elbow, shoulders, neck, and upper back. By rotating the arms upward and downward you will be toning the muscles in your shoulders, biceps triceps, upper back and chest.

The AbDoer Twist received the seal of approval from the prestigious National Health and Wellness organization. It is especially good for people getting started who don't want to stress their joints. There's much you can do on this by getting a head-to-toe total body workout. Working out my abs for instance, I am moving my body like a figure eight. With the stem moving multiple directions it’s activating all your core muscles along with your back muscles. The elevated bars, help with keeping your body in alignment so that you can maxi-

mize the exercises. The foam roller that massages your back as you work out also benefits to stimulate back muscles while doing core work. Part of your core is the back muscles that will be strengthened with the AbDoer Twist.

The swivel action seat can be changed to your liking with the multiple resistance dial. The flex technology of the AbDoer activates a wide range of muscle groups. Being aligned and supported, you will work these muscles more effectively with less stress and less pain. You can tone your muscles and do your aerobic workout at the same time while sitting. I tried some torso twist and some side leans I found in the manual. There is a very nice variety of exercises in the AbDoer manual.

Basically, with the AbDoer Twist, you are exercising your whole body from a seated position. When you are focusing only on the core, I like the idea that you aren't just working one part of your core but all angles! It does get every inch of your abs. The well-made design activates your core, back and spinal muscles in every direction to give a stronger back and healthy posture.

The aim of the AbDoer Twist is to reshape the entire body part and at the same time protect your body. When you are not using the AbDoer Twist, you can easily fold it and tuck it away. Designed for users for all fitness levels and all body types up to 300 pounds. The AbDoer Twist does what it says it's going to do! Like I said earlier, I still have and use the AbDoer 360. The AbDoer Twist not only hits all the core muscles but gives a wholebody workout! So go ahead and put on that Chubby Checker music video and twist the night away or if you prefer to make some noise, you could twist and shout! The AbDoer Twist comes with instructions, three quick start progressive workouts, beginner, intermediate, and advanced. Special starter kit also includes a quick start guide and accelerated results booklet and a healthy eating plan.

For more information visit www.thaneinc.com and like with any exercise program, consult your physician before beginning.

STANDBY GENERATORS

Sunset

“The kingdom of heaven is like a grain of mustard seed that a man took and sowed in his field. It is the smallest of all seeds, but when it has grown it is larger than all the garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and make nests in its branches.” Matthew 13: 31b-32 (ESV)