Bucks County Magazine - Spring 2024

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.

40,000 Sq. Ft. Hidden Gem of the Design World in Bucks County, PA.

Jim Alterman Launches Ashley John Design as an Exclusive Resource for Designers

CONTENTS features

54 g Bucks Beautiful

Over 500 tons of boulders and stone were brought in to create this rocky landscape with walkways, risers, planters, walls, pathways, fireplace, water features, outdoor kitchen and a babbling brook. / By Susan Sandor

68 g London Purchase Farm

Roger Pomerantz and his wife Cathy Cole see their stay at London Purchase Farm, as tenants with a sacred stewardship rather than the owners of this important historic treasure that was cruicially important to the American Revolution / By Beth S. Buxbaum

84 g Planning, Planting & Tending

Backyard Eats can plan, plant and tend a vegetable garden that becomes part of your landscape, and you can eat delicious, fresh and healthly food everyday / By Chrysa Smith

102 g Jersey Shore Mystique

Bucks Countians come to the Jersey Shore to swim and tan, relax, visit museums and historic sites, be entertained, walk boardwalks and stay in beautiful summer homes and hotels. / By Bob Waite

134 g Annual Wedding Guide

Bucks County’s Annual Wedding Guide helps those potential brides and grooms plan a wedding in Bucks County and it’s surrounding area On

Our

artist-in-residence, Jennifer Hansen Rolli’s still life depicts spring as bright and beautiful, fresh and altogether lovely.

Spring2024 DEPARTMENTS

goodlife

94 118 56

56 g People / By Cynthia Marone

Graphic artist and author Lee Felbinger began collecting radio Lone Ranger toys as a child and over the years has expanded his collection by browsing Bucks County flea markets

61 g In the Garden / By Lori Rose

Wet areas in the garden that are inhospitable to anything but mud and water can be drained off by planting water loving trees and shrubs

64 g Art Galley / By Michele Malinchak

Painting in his New Jersey studio and painting plein air, Michael Budden has painted wildlife, urban scenes and bucolic landscapes, but it is always the light that grabs him and makes him want to paint

94 g At Home / By Chrysa Smith

Dan Miles, owner of Miles Decks, adds on to homes to stretch their indoor space just beyond its borders, creating a place to gather with family and friends that brings their home outside

98 g In Style / By Mary Beth Schwartz

Ric Edwards of Garage Experts of Eastern PA brings 30-plus years of experience to renewing and making over garages

118 g Getaway / By Bob & TanyaWaite

Tanya and I loved Cape May and our stay at the wonderfully hospitable Mason Cottage B&B, but we needed more time to get just a glimpse of all that the nation’s first seaside resort has to offer

156 g County Fare / By Diana Cercone

A barn party, two friends, their families, some homemade beer and a business plan all coalesced to produce some of the tastiest craft beer in Bucks County at Warwick Farm Brewing in Jamison

By Bob Waite

Spring is never so-so. April isn’t as T.S. Eliot wrote, “the cruelest month.” Whether cliché or not, spring is the season of rebirth. The Easter story is most assuredly true and nature sings. And nature sings again in a major key. The Bucks County landscape changes as grayish brown turns to green and bulbs explode into bright tulips. Then the dazzling display of flowering trees and birds sing at 5 a.m. Bucks County during the spring is magnificent and there is nothing cruel about it.

Spring is a time that Bucks Countians pay special attention to their gardens. In our feature “Plant, Plant and Tend,” Chrysa Smith writes about the unique garden service, Backyard Eats. Backyard Eats offers turn key vegetable gardens that can be kept by the owner or them. They not only will set up the veggie gardens but will maintain them. They take into account such things as water, slope of land, accessibility and versatility. They also offer to maintain it and give continuing support.

Spring in Bucks County is when excited brides scan catalogs and scurry from boutique to boutique preparing for their special day in June. Bucks County Magazine’s “Annual Wedding Guide” is there to help them with valuable information about stunning venues, bakeries, and other services to make sure that their special day is a perfect day.

Spring is also a time when people plan their summer vacations. Many go to the New Jersey Shore, and some buy or rent beautiful beachfront homes. In our Spring 2024 issue of Bucks County Magazine, we have two features about the New Jersey Shore. One, which is a part of a New Jersey Shore Guide is “Jersey Shore Mystique,” that contains information about some of the things to do down the shore, and the other story is “Our Cape May Glimpse,” written by my wife Tanya and me about our stay at the Mason Cottage in Cape May, New Jersey and how we were given only a small glimpse of all the things one can do in Cape May..

Our featured house this spring is the London Purchase Farm that has a history that began in the early 1700s. The feature called “London Purchase Farm,” written by Beth Buxbaum, details the property, the history including its crucial role in the Revolutionary War and the owners, Roger Pomerantz and his wife Cathy Cole, who see themselves as stewards rather than owners of this magnificent property.

In our Spring 2024 issue of Bucks County Magazine, we also have a spread on “Bucks Beautiful,” a story about a collector of Lone Ranger Radio toys, painter Michael Budden, a brewery in Jamison, a deck builder, garages, two great Bucks County restaurants and lots about the people, places and things to do in Bucks County. So, cliché or not, spring in Bucks County is the season of rebirth!

OUR FOCUS IS YOU

Doylestown Health has been delivering award-winning care with compassion and expertise for over a century.

At Doylestown Health, we understand that nothing is more important than your health. That’s why we put the needs of our patients and community first. We provide life-changing care with compassion and expertise. Our team approach and patient-first philosophy result in better outcomes for you and your loved ones.

Clark Center for Breast Imaging

… browse our collections of furniture, firepits, pizza ovens, accessories & more at Ski Barn’s Lawrenceville store or online. Ski Barn is always ready to give you a free in-store or at-home virtual consultation. We have our delivery and set-up crew and delivery to the Jersey Shore. Visit Ski Barn at 2990 Brunswick Pike, Route, US-1, Lawrence Township, NJ; 609- 530-1666; www.skibarn.com.

Sampler

… explore Bucks County’s historical sites and scenic landscapes with a knowledgeable tour guide. Their private tours offer the thrill of Creek crossings, fun filled back roads and picturesque views. Hop in a Jeep Wrangler with the top down and immerse yourself in fascinating local history, narration and unforgettable adventures. Contact Bucks County Joyrides at 215-664-7092: www.buckscountyjoyrides.com.

This spring take a trip to Frenchtown and visit this quaint women’s boutique. They carry Cut Loose, Habitat, Wooden Ships, Luca Vanucci and many other brands

Visit them 15 Race Stree, Frenchtown, NJ; 908-996-7000; www.rivergypsynj.com.

… whichever type of awning you need, Retractable or a Fabric Commercial awning, JMT Awnings has you covered. Offering protection from the sun and stateof-the-art design with a long lasting fabric. For more information call 215-539-5239 or visit www.jmtawnings.com.

… breathtaking, custom aquariums that can turn your space into an underwater work of art. It brings beauty of aquatic life into your hame. Custom Aquarium Services in Doylestown, PA can create and manage it. Contact them at 215-237-4591 or visit www.aquariumdesignstudios.com.

Hinkley Plantation 5-Light Pendant medium chandelier in Traditional-Glam style. A Hinkley classic, the ornate Plantation collection features exceptional pineapple shaped, clear optic glass that makes a noble statement. Available at Wage Lighting & Design, 401 Bustleton Pike, Feasterville, PA; 215-355-1090; www.wagelighting.com.

… Cane Farm Furniture has a fine collection of artisan-crafted reproductions of authentic vintage furniture, custom made pieces and one-of-a-kind items. They are closing their doors after 59 years and all inventory is 50% off. To see furniture, prints, books, collectables, and more contact them at 609-397-0606; www.canefarmfurniture.com.

BELLA (A.K.A. BEAUTIFUL) FLOORING

This year Bella Flooring celebrates 25 years of serving Bucks County and the surrounding area. Bella is located in Pipersville and is a family owned and operated business.

Bella’s showroom has 10,000+ square feet of space that features thousands of samples displaying the latest styles of tile, natural stone, hardwood, carpet and vinyl.The Bella team provides design assistance and product knowledge to all homeowners, designers and contractors alike, offering professional installation by Certified Licensed technicians.

Don’t let the name “Flooring” fool you, as they can handle full bathroom renovations, back splashes, fireplace surrounds, accent walls and area rugs. Listening to the wants and needs of their customers while keeping your budget in check is what sets them apart from other shops. Bring your pictures, swatches, pillow or even a cabinet drawer, and the staff will bring

your inspiration and vision into focus for your project. Visit their showroom and experience one of the largest flooring selections in the area—a place where you can depend on Quality Products and Service.

A customer who had her hardwood floor replaced with tile, says “I can't say enough about Bella Flooring. They have been amazing to deal with. They were very patient with me, as it took me some time to find what I wanted. There was no pressure on sales, and they got back to me promptly. The crew was nothing but excellent. They were very prompt, very neat and they cleaned daily. Each day they kept me informed of the progress and the plan moving forward.”

Bella Flooring is located at 6516 Easton Road, Pipersville, PA. For more information, call 215-766-1660 or visit www.bellaflooringllc.com.

UNION CHILL: WHERE CANNABIS AND COMMUNITY COME TOGETHER

It was nearly a year ago when Union Chill Cannabis Company, the region’s premier dispensary, finally opened its doors and was officially able to call the Lambertville-New Hope area home.

Led by locals with deep roots in the region, Union Chill is a leading craft dispensary founded on the mission of offering customers a unique retail cannabis shopping experience—an inclusive, inviting and relaxed environment that feels just right.

Union Chill staff members, with a deep yet varied background in cannabis, strive to make every customer a knowledgeable customer. By answering questions and providing information on the different products and strains, customers leave Union Chill with specifically curated products best suited to meet their individualized needs.

With an eye toward community, Union Chill favors a community-

Acentric approach to doing business, supporting other local businesses, organizations and non-profits in the region. In the past year, this has included hosting renowned artist Perry Milou for pop-up painting events, leading a holiday drive for Bucks County Housing Group and partnering with local restaurants and businesses to offer promotions. And, in 2024, Union Chill will serve as the premier sponsor for ShadFest™ 2024, supporting the annual event in its 41st year.

Whether you’re new to cannabis or an expert, you’re invited to stop by, explore and unwind at Union Chill. 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.To learn more about Union Chill, visit www.unionchillco.com.

TALES OF BUCKS COUNTY

uthor and storyteller Raymond Smecker does it again. After writing The Four Seasons of Lancaster County (Volume 1 & Volume 2), he has completed Volume 1 of Tales of Bucks County. Again we see that he has the same eye for colorful photography and gives us a peek into the history and personal ex periences that he shares with all the winsomeness of an accomplished storyteller.

Tales of Bucks County is full of personal reflection on some of the most im portant events in our nation’s history and scenic vistas that we Bucks Countians all know. A sampling of the chapters include, “Traveling The (Delaware) River Road,” “Tinicum’s Mystical Waterways,” “A Peaceable Kingdom,” and a few with have intriguing titles, like “The Legend of Nutimus,” “Teddy Roosevelt Fished Here,” “Who Let the Dogs Out,” and more.

Tales of Bucks County is 76 pages and has a painting of a Bucks County stone house on the cover. It sells for $18 and can be purchased at Masthof Press & Bookstore at www.masthof.com and at Amazon.com.

FULFILLING YOUR DESIGN DREAMS

Solebury Design is an interior design firm specializing in custom residential. Timothy Bailey, founder and principal of Solebury Design, works with homeowners to carefully create intentional spaces both inside and out.

With each project, Timothy Bailey brings his architectural background and interior design experience to create fully realized projects from layout to furnishings. Solebury Design performs an array of services, including concept plans and schematic design, finish selections, architectural detailing, cabinetry & millwork design, tile design & selection, color schemes, furniture design, and installation coordination.

Timothy works with his clients and in close collaboration with consultants and builders throughout the entire process to ensure that the final result is greater than the sum of its parts. If there's any advice he would give someone either looking to build or remodel, it's not to rush the process. Take the time in vetting and really getting to know your builder, architect and/or designer to make sure that the team you create is the right fit for you.

He says on his website, "From a large estate to a modest remodel, we begin every project with a focus on originality to capture the client's uniqueness. One size does not fit all. Beautiful spaces are important, but if they don't meet the individual client's needs, they mean nothing."

For information about Solebury Design and Timothy Bailey, call 215-315-8818, email tsummersb@gmail.com or visit online at www.soleburydesign.com.

Standing water along your foundation, in your lawn, flowerbeds and on your patios can lead to wet basements, dead plants, increased mosquito breeding and dirty dog paws.

Nickett Landscaping has been fixing water drainage issues for homeowners for over 4 decades. Our expertise allows us to diagnose your unique drainage problem, so that you stop worrying every time it rains.

Our crews protect your lawn with the use of smaller equip-

SPEAKEASY FIXING YARD DRAINAGE PROBLEMS

ment and hand tools. Protective measures are taken so we do not destroy your lawn. We strive to keep your lawn looking as we were not even there.

The wet season of late winter and early spring is here, so now is the time to make an appointment to fix any concerns that you may have about your home and landscape. If you would like to know more, please call our office at 215-3451385 or visit our website at www.nickettlandscaping.com.

DADDY

TOM’S

Behind the Bookcase of 304 Wine and Beer, Daddy Tom’s is the worst kept secret speakeasy style cocktail lounge in historic Bristol Borough. Their cocktails and ambiance have been carefully curated for an elevated yet relaxed cocktail experience.To get in you’ll need our daily password, so follow us on Instagram

Daddy Tom is the nickname of co-owner, Greg Pezza’s, grandfather, Dr. Thomas Fannin. He was a family physician, veteran, musician, and life of the party. While Dr. Fannin was abroad, his wife Leona, and their baby girl, Kathleen, lived with Leona’s parents in Conneaut, Ohio. The little girl came to call her grandfather “Daddy” and when Tom returned after an absence of four years, she called him “Daddy Tom” to differentiate. The name stuck.

The cocktails at Daddy Tom’s are carefully designed, often using the slow drinks method where there is a premium put on ingredients and there is a story in every pour.

Daddy Tom’s Speakeasy is open Wednesday through Saturday 6 p.m. to 2 a.m. Daddy Tom’s is located behind the bookcase at 304 Wine & Beer located at 483 Pond St, Bristol, PA.To get in you’ll need the daily password, so follow on Instagram at www.instagram.com/daddytoms_speakeasy. For more information, visit www.dtcocktails.com.

SHERLOCK HOMES, HOUSE DETECTIVE

AAfter serving on the staff of Heritage Conservancy, for 40 years, Jeffrey Marshall retired as president of that organization. Since the time he has been happily surprised by the number of people who have reached out to him to have him help them with either historic research on their properties, or with questions about land conservation.

In the past year, Jeffrey has completed a successful national register nomination for a mid-century modern house designed by Louis Kahn in Philadelphia and is working on nominations of 18th and 19th century properties located in Bucks and Montgomery Counties. In addition he written over a dozen property histories. One interesting project is to develop a preservation plan for a community in Lehigh County.

The demand for his services became so great that he formed Open Spaces and Historic Places LLC to accommodate all of the requests from individual, historical groups and municipalities. In addition to visiting historic properties, he often speaks at local historical societies. Jeffery has created an alter persona, “Sherlock Homes, House Detec-

tive”, who focuses on unraveling the history of houses based of architectural elements and similar clues. A frequent contributor on Facebook local history pages, he spends a lot of time going out to historic houses and barns to explain to people the building’s history and changes based on visible clues. These evaluations are supported by research if requested.

“It’s nice to take a nearly half century’s worth of research and experience and be able to share with people who care about our past. I am constantly pleasantly surprised about how people find me and ask for my help.”

“I was recently contacted by someone whose property I had researched in 1992. It is amazing what additional information is now available based on the Internet and from other sources which were not available when the report was initially completed. Luckily, the original conclusion was vindicated.The newly available information about the people who lived in the house helps bring the story to life.” To contact Jeff Marshall, email JeffMarshall398@gmail.com.

STEVEN SAFFIER, CAR SPECIALIST

At age 10, Steven Saffier was an avid birdwatcher with aspirations of becoming an ornithologist, but he had another passion that could not be denied. Growing up with a car guy for a dad will often lead to an appetite for cars in the kids…and it did. Bernie, Steven’s dad, was a natural grease monkey who began working at Holbert’s Garage in Warrington in the mid-1950s. During that time, Holbert and others started a small private car club called the Old York Road Sports Car Club. Bernie, who passed away in 1993, was a member back then; the club still exists and Steven is a member.

After 15 years at Audubon (where he originated the Bird Town program), Steven decided to make his car hobby a career and started an automotive radio show called CarSmarts which was broadcast on 610-ESPN from 2018 to 2020. Following that venture, he was hired to produce the Classic Auto Mall Podcast with Stewart Howden which is still going strong after more than two years. Being around hundreds of classic cars and watching them exchange hands in joyful transactions was intriguing so Steven began consigning cars at the mall.

Living in the BuxMont area affords him the opportunity to help people in the region who might be interested in consigning their cars or finding the classic of their dreams from the inventory of over 1,000 vehicles. Assistance also includes help with assessing value, processing paperwork, estate vehicles, and transporting the car or truck.

To sell or buy a classic car, call Steven at 257-467-3777 or visit www.classiccarmall.com.

GRAND CHAMPION BELLA

Roger and Cindy Wright, owners of Roger S. Wright Furniture Limited in Perkasie, show their bassets in AFK (American Kennel Club) conformation dog shows. According to AFK rules, a basset must be six months old to be entered into a conformation show. “We don’t really expect to win points toward their championship when they are that young, but we like to enter them so they get used to it and also for them to have a good experience.”

The Wrights recount Bella’s story of being a show dog. “On February 29, 2020 there were two shows coming up on the day that Bella would be 6 months and 4 days old. During the first show, when it was time for Bella’s class, she was very distracted by the other dog and handler in our class. During the second show she settled down and won her class. Then we went back in the ring with the other class winners, and to my surprise, Bella was awarded Winners Bitch over the other class winners, for her first major win. Then we got to go back in the ring one more time with all of the champions and the winners dog (who had won over all of the male class winners). The judge awarded Best of Winners to Bella,.”

A week or two after Bella’s first win, Covid shut everything down and Bella wasn’t shown again several years. When she was able to be shown, she did well and finished her championship on June 4, 2022.

Bella completed her Grand Championship requirements on Dec 9, 2023. She can then go on to the higher levels of Grand Champions such as Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum.

LASANDRA’S FASHION JOURNEY

OVICH Boutique, located in the heart of Skippack Village, began as an e-commerce business, selling Lasandra Kapetanovich’s personally created signature perfume, Lady K35. OVICH Boutique was named one of Montgomery County’s Best Online Retailors by Montco Happening Magazine

Lasandra and Karlos Kapetanovich originally founded OVICH LLC as a perfume company. OVICH has expanded to a women’s boutique which retails an exquisite collection of women’s clothing, handbags, shoes, organic body care products and candles.

How OVICH progressed from perfume company to a boutique is similar to Lasandra’s own personal journey. Shortly before the creation of her fragrance, Lasandra was diagnosed with stage 2A, grade 3 breast cancer. The prescribed treatment was surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. Rather than remaining devastated by the diagnosis, Lasandra decided to improve her mental state by creating her own perfume. According to Lasandra, every woman’s choice of fragrance creates a story of who they are or who they want to become. Since perfume had always been an integral part of Lasandra’s beauty routine, she and Karlos decided to go to New York City and met with a perfumer to design their own perfume. “Lady K35”.

Lasandra channeled this strength and perseverance when she opened her boutique during a pandemic. Like her cancer journey, opening OVICH was full of uncertainty. However, Lasandra was guided by her passion for self-expression through beauty. OVICH

quickly expanded to a storefront operation.Though fashion doesn’t define a person, it creates a unique platform for expressing oneself while also lifting a person’s mood and confidence. Lasandra recalled that during her treatment, she made it a point to get dressed everyday no matter how she felt emotionally and physically. And Lasandra wore her perfume to treatment every day and shared it with other women to help uplift their spirits. She attributes this routine and her positive outlook as a major reason that she is in remission. Lasandra expressed a similar hope that the merchandise found at OVICH will allow people to also feel bold, confident, and empowered.

OVICH Boutique is located at 4042 W. Skippack Pike, Skippack, PA. For more information, call 267-340-5528 or visit www.ovichboutique.com.

PERSONALIZED HOLISTIC HEALING

Em bark on a transformative journey of personalized holistic healing at the Won Institute Clinics, nestled in the heart of Warminster, Bucks County. This inclusive medical space welcomes a diverse array of patients, including yourself, and is renowned for its commitment to integrative health and traditional Chinese medicine.

At the core of our approach is acupuncture, a potent tool in pain management tailored to address specific issues such as stress, neck pain, back pain, knee pain, and fertility. Despite the use of needles, it's essential to note that acupuncture is a painless procedure, enhancing the overall comfort of the healing experience. The commitment to personalization extends to emotional and psychological well-being, integrating the unique mental landscape of each patient into their healing journey.

personalized treatment plans for conditions like arthritis, migraines, headaches, neuralgia, and fibromyalgia.

Explore a diverse range of services, including acupuncture, tui na (East Asian massage), cupping, cosmetic acupuncture (microneedling), low light laser therapy, and the Chinese Herbal Medicine Clinic. Following an introductory consultation, herbalist practitioners create unique treatment plans and herbal prescriptions filled in-house.

Experience a health sanctuary where treatments cater to your unique needs.The value of the student clinic combines affordability with excellence, enriching your journey to well-being. Your path to holistic health begins at the Won Institute Clinics—a place where personalized care transforms lives.

For gastrointestinal disorders, personalized acupuncture targets issues like chronic diarrhea, constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, and gastritis, acknowledging the individual nature of digestive health. The clinics also address musculoskeletal and nervous system issues, crafting

MThe Won Institute is located at 800 Jacksonville Road,Warminster, PA;To make an appointment, call 215-884-9340. For more information, visit woninstitute.edu.

MERCER HILL AT DOYLESTOWN

ercer Hill offers upscale senior living near Philadelphia in Doylestown, PA. The community boasts a suburban setting, conveniently located off the Hwy 202 interchange. It is ideal for seniors seeking an active lifestyle and the best life has to offer. Mercer Hill now offers independent living, assisted living and memory care.

Mercer Hill provides healthy and delicious, classic favorites, and modern trends are all on the menu at Mercer Hill. Retirement living never tasted this good!

Give your social life a reboot at Mercer Hill. The community has activities that stimulate your mind, body, and soul. And with so many cool activity spaces at the community, you'll have fun exploring it all.

Mercer Hill is ideally located near picturesque, walkable Doylestown, chosen for best small town living because of its world-class cultural and artistic attractions, and strong commitment to historic

preservation.

Why settle, when you can have a movie theater, restaurant, pub, cafe, art studio, music conservatory, wellness center, beauty salon, game room, and more, all without leaving the building?

It's YOUR retirement. So go ahead, give it your best bear hug, imagine the possibilities and make it your own. And may we suggest Mercer Hill at Doylestown as the perfect place to reclaim your retirement? With luxurious amenities, social opportunities, and exemplary care services, retirement can go from ”humdrum” to ”legendary” in the blink of an eye.

Mercer Hill is located at 2010 Easton Road, Doylestown, PA. To schedule your tour, call 267-742-3144. For more information, visit www.mercerhillatdoylestown.com.

A SPRING TRADITION RETURNS

Above is the team of designers,landscapers and boutiquers. Below is a house rendering and a collage of work in progress. Everyone is working hard to present the 48th Designer House and Gardens.

The 48th Bucks County Designer House & Gardens, Sycamore Lane Farm, located in Perkasie, will open its doors with an elegant onsite Preview Gala on Friday evening, April 26, 2024. Tours of the house and gardens will run from April 28th through May 26th.

Sycamore Lane Farm has remained in the same family for over sixty years. It is now owned by the next generation of family members, who have undertaken a major renovation of the property and grounds. A stunning addition, including a glass conservatory, an impressive chef’s kitchen, and an elegant primary suite, are some of the beautiful new living spaces in the main house. Forty-five acres of rolling hills and farmland, featuring numerous outer buildings including an artist’s studio, milk house, smokehouse, bank barn, three-car garage, and a spring house complete the property.

From 1938 until 1953 Sycamore Lane Farm was home to John Falter, the renowned illustrator, who painted over 100 Saturday Evening Post covers in the artist’s studio. Some of these covers depict rooms and buildings that still exist today.Visitors will see this and other aspects of the home’s history reflected in its decor.

The event will also feature 14 boutiques and an onsite cafe

serving lunch and light fare. Wines from Bishop Estate Winery will be available.

This is the largest fundraiser held by the Village Improvement Association of Doylestown (VIA), a non-profit women's organization that founded Doylestown Hospital in 1923 and continues to govern this award-winning healthcare system.As Doylestown Health enters its second century of care, funds from the 2024 Designer House will support the clinical and programmatic needs of the Hospital’s VIA Maternity Center, which brings approximately 1,300 babies into the world every year.

Other VIA programs support veterans and those in need, provide academic scholarships, and support the James-Lorah Memorial Home in Doylestown, a house and museum listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Plan to spend the day at Sycamore Lane Farm! For additional information and to purchase Gala or House Tour tickets, please visit the Designer House website at www.BucksCountyDesignerHouse.org.

ALWAYS COOKING UP SOME FRESH IDEAS FOR YOUR HOME NOOK NOOK

CREATIVE MUSIC SCHOOL

In Bucks County, a captivating vision is unfolding—a sanctuary dedicated to nurturing creativity and fostering education steeped in imagination. Since its inception in 2019, Nook Nook Creative Music School has stood as a cornerstone of inspiration and personal growth in Doylestown. As it thrives, the school marks a significant milestone by relocating to an expansive new facility at 4059 Skyron Drive.

Founders Marcus and Junko Staniec initiated their educational journey in Tokyo, Japan. Marcus, hailing from Bucks County, Pennsylvania, embarked on a mission to infuse education with creativity. Drawing from his experience as a global researcher and educator advocating for creativity in classrooms, Marcus and his team recognized a stark void of creativity in curricula, even within the realms of arts and music. He notes, "Education too often fixates on rote learning and

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perfection, overlooking the vital aspects of ambiguity and creative exploration."

At Nook, creativity is defined as "personal innovation," and how one nurtures these innovations is entirely up to them. Marcus elucidates, "This concept laid the foundation for my initial school in Tokyo. We’re here to inspire students to think like artists, to create their own music. While most Nook attendees may not aspire to professional music careers, our true mission is to invigorate their creativity across all life dimensions, fostering leadership skills and confidence unattainable elsewhere. Music holds immense power, and these

goals are intrinsic to that power." Nook prides itself on its dedicated team of fulltime music educators, each bringing their unique expertise to ensure an optimal learning journey for all students. Additionally, the new facility boasts a dedicated performance hall, a cozy café lounge, a kids' playroom, a state-of-the-art recording studio, and a trove of delightful surprises, rendering it an all-encompassing space for families.

For more information, email Nook Nook Creative Music School at info@nooknookmu sic.com or visit www.nooknookmusic.com.

Marcus, Junko, and their daughter Keely

Spring 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. 1850 River Road, Lambertville, NJ. 609-397-0811; www.gnflea.com. Pook & Pook, Inc.

March 27: Coins and Jewelry

Spring 2024: Antique Toys,Games, Dolls, & Trains

April 2024: Americana & International

463 East Lancaster Avenue, Downingtown, PA. 610-269-4040; www.pookandpook.com.

Alderfer Auction

Ongoing: Auctions of fine art including Pennsylvania impressionists, decorative accessories, period furniture, jewelry, antiques, firearms, militaria, coins, stamps, dolls, books & ephemera, collec-tor automobiles and many various collections. Bridging the past with today’s technological world, Alderfer Auction offers online bidding and worldwide marketing while maintaining its unrivaled local customer service.

501 Fairgrounds Road, Hatfield, PA. 215-393-3000; www.alderferauction.com.

Rago Arts

March 21: Art Nouveau/Art Deco Glass & Lighting

March 26: Early 20th Century Design

Lambertville, NJ Shad Festival

What to do in Bucks County

and surronding areas!

March 27: 20/21 Art

March 28: Design

333 North Main Street, Lambertville, NJ. 609-397-9374; www.ragoarts.com.

The Philadelphia Antiques & Art Show

April 25-April 28: This show offers diverse furnishings and decorative arts for both the period and modern American home. Admission. The Navy Yard, 11th Street and Kittyhawk Avenue, Philadelphia, PA. www.thephiladelphiashow.com

Renningers

April 6: Flash Train Meet

April 26-27: Kutztown Antique & Collectors Extravaganza

May 10-11: Kutztown Antiques Radio Meet

May 18: Flash Train Meet

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

ART

Canal Frame-Crafts Gallery

Ongoing: A full-services gallery and frame shop, Canal Frame features both originals and prints. Many fine quality local artists are represented. 1093 General Greene Road, Washington Crossing, PA. 215493-3660; www.canalframe.com.

Gratz Gallery & Conservation Studio

Ongoing: A full-service fine art investment firm specializing in 19th- and 20th-century American paintings. There is an emphasis on the Pennsylvania

Impressionists, the Philadelphia Ten, and artists from the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. Fine art framing services, as well as conser-vation services, also are provided. 5230 Silo Hill Road, Doylestown, PA. 215-348-2500; www.gratzgallery.com.

Lachman Gallery

Ongoing: Bucks County Artist Al Lachman is known for his colorful paintings of American barns and landscapes.

44 Peddler’s Village Road, Lahaska, PA. 215-794-5500; www.allachman.com.

The Silverman Gallery of Bucks County Impressionist Art

Ongoing: This gallery features artists that continue the Bucks County Impressionist tradition. Buckingham Green Shopping Center, 4920 York Road (Route 202), Holicong, PA. 215-794-4300;

Tree Trails Adventures

www.silvermangallery.com.

Philadelphia Museum of Art

Ongoing: Seeing with Empathy: The Female Gaze in American Modernis

Through Spring 2024: Van Gogh;s

Drawing for The Potato Eaters in Context

Through April 14: Stephen Burks: Shelter in Place

Through July 7: Of God and Country:

American Art from Jill and Sheldon Bonovitz Collection

2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, PA. 215-763-8100. www.philamuseum.org.

Princeton University Art Museum

Through April 28: Art on Hulfish/Christina Fernandez: Multiple Exposures

Through May 14: Georgia Museum of Art, University of Georgia

June 3-September 10: Florence Griswold Museum

Princeton University campus, Princeton, NJ. 609-258-3788; www.artmuseum.princeton.edu.

The James A. Michener

Art Museum

April 20-October 13: George R. Anthonisen: Meditations on the Human Condition

April 7: Family Drawing Day

April 10: Curator Conversation: Amanda Bourdan on the Artist Allan Freelon

April 14: Art in Bloom

Opening May: Behind These Walls: Reckoning with Incarceration

Through May 26: CFEVA at 40: Four Decades of Supporting Contemporary Art

May 2: Monuments & Myths: Plater Figures

May 8: Behind These Walls: Reckoning with Incarceration

May 7, 14, 21, 28: Studio Excursions: Architecture as Art

May 12: Mother’s Day

June 6: Practicing her Profession: Mary Cassatt at Work

June 9: OOPA’s World of Words

June 10: Summer Solstice at the Labyrinth

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

Artists’ Gallery

Through March 31: Entirely

April 4-May 5: Beatrice Bork and Michael Schweigart

May 9-June 2: Ting Ting Hsu and Mark Oliver

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

Patricia Hutton Galleries

Through June 16: Spring Exhibition - Celebrating Life, Growth and Renewal - a gallery wide landscape and still life exhibition featuring oil, pastel and watercolor paintings by our award-winning artists. Expect to see verdant pastures, farmlands, forests, brooks, flowers and vegetables - all the beauty of Spring

interpreted in styles ranging from impressionism to realism - a treat for the eye and the spirit.

47 West State Street, Doylestown, PA. 215-348-1728; www.patriciahuttongalleries.com.

Grounds for Sculpture

March 16: Tots for sculpture flying colors

March 20: First Signs of Spring

March 20: Atelier Class: Drawing in Space with Wire-Still Life

March 23: First Signs of Spring

May 8: Atelier Class: Resin Casting

May 27: Atelier Event: Scratchmold Kit with Virtual Pour

80 Sculptures Way, Hamilton, NJ. 609586-0616; www.groundsforsculpture.org.

The Stover Mill Art Gallery

May 4-26: May Natural Fusion: Watercolor and Photography in Harmony

June 1-23: Engaging in Oils and Sculptures

852 River Road, Erwinna PA. 610-2949420, www.tinicumcivicassociation.org.

The Art of the Miniature XXXII

May 5- June 15, 2024: The 32nd invitational exhibition of fine art miniatures from around the world.

May 4: Collectors Preview 12- 5pm .Opening reception: Sunday, May 5, 1- 5 pm. The Snow Goose Gallery, 470 Main Street, Bethlehem, PA; 610-974-9099; www.thesnowgoosegallery.com.

CRAFTS

Glenside Arts Festival

April 27: Now in its 10th year, the festival includes fine art and crafts, entertainment, food trucks, and wine, cider and craft beer tastings. Downtown Glenside is located near Easton Road & Glen-side Avenue near the Glenside Train Station and is easily accessible by car, bus, or

train. 215-843-4462; www.renaissancecraftables.com.

Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsmen

May 4-5: Haverford Fine Craft Spring

June 22-23: Fine Craft at the Foundry 48 Admission. 717-431-8706; www.pacrafts.org.

Annual Downtown Bethlehem Fine Art and Craft Show

May 11-12: This juried craft show takes place along Main Street. Featured will be street music, a children’s fine art area, and an artist-in-residence. Bethlehem, PA; www.bfac-lv.org.

9th Street Philadelphia’s Italian Market

May 18-19: Bring the entire family and enjoy all the Festival Events, including Live Musical Entertainment, Arts and Crafts, Half Ball Tournament, Grease Pole Contest, The Traditional Procession

of Saints, and all the delicious Food. 919 S. 9th Street, Philadelphia PA 19147; www.italianmarketfestival.com.

Winetober Fest

May18: Join us for the semi-annual Winetober Fest where you can indulge in the finest wines and spirits from Pennsylvania's top wineries and distilleries. With over 100 vendors, you'll have plenty of opportunities to shop from local artisans, craft makers, and food vendors. Your ticket includes a delightful sampling of wine and liquor, as well as a day filled with fun and entertainment, including lawn games and live performances. For an even more exclusive experience, upgrade to a VIP ticket, which includes an hour of early access and a collectible wine glass to commemorate the occa-sion. Skippack Village,4039 Skippack Pike Skippack, PA; www.winetober.com.

Where happiness blooms.

ENTERTAINMENT

The Actors’ NET of Bucks County

Through March 24: Over the River and Through the Woods by Joe DiPietro

April 26-May 12: The Drag by Mae West

June 14-June 30: Love’s Labour’s Lost by William Shakespeare

The Heritage Center Theatre, 635 North Delmorr Avenue, Morrisville, PA. 215295-3694; www.actorsnetbucks.org.

Bristol Riverside Theatre

March 19- April 14: Big the Musical

May 14-June 2: The Second City: Comedian Rhapsody

120 Radcliffe Street, Bristol, PA. 215785-0100; www.brtstage.org.

McCarter Theatre Center

Through March 24: Dreamgirls

April 11: Caetano Veloso: Meu Coco

April 16: Snarky Puppy

You worked hard to get here!

Now it’s your time to enjoy independent living complemented by amenities, dining options, entertainment, enrichment and outstanding community life.

Become part of a community that supports your interests and provides opportunities to stay well and thrive.

Leave the chores behind and enjoy the worry-free lifestyle at Pine Run Village.

April 17: Les Ballets Trockadero de Mont

Carlo: 50th Anniversary

April 20: Shawn Colvin & KT Tunstall

May 8-June 2: Choice

June 7-8: Stomp

91 University Place, Princeton, NJ. 609258-2787; www.mccarter.org.

Bucks County Playhouse

March 23: Isaac Mizrath

March 30: Chris Funk the Wonderist

April 5: The Ugly Duckling

April 6-7: The Wildcards

April 27: The Great Dubois Masters of Variety

May 4: Claybourne Elder: If the Stars were Mine

70 South Main Street, New Hope, PA. 215-862-2121; www.bcptheater.org.

Lenape Chamber Ensemble

April 5-7: Mozart String Quartet, Brahms: Violin Sonata, Faure: Piano Quartet Upper Black Eddy, PA. 610-294-9361; www.lenapechamberensemble.org.

Newtown Arts Company

April 18-21: Jekyll & Hyde

June 20-23: Anne of Green Gables

Newtown Theatre, 120 North State Street, Newtown, PA. 215-860-7058; www.newtownartscompany.com.

Newtown Chamber Orchestra

April 14: Peter and the Wolf Sergei Prokofiev

Lutheran Church of God’s Love, 791 Newtown-Yardley Road, Newtown, PA. 267-291-4626; www.newtownchamberorchestra.org.

Langhorne Players

April 19-23: Photograph 51

July 19-28: White by James IJames Spring Garden Mill, Tyler Park, Route 332, Newtown, PA. 215-860-0818; www.langhorneplayers.org.

Roxey Ballet

April 14: FairyTale Party

April 20-21: Children’s Classic Stories

May 10-19: Journey Back to the 90’s 609-397-7616; www.roxeyballet.org.

New Hope Winery

April 12-13: Boat House Row-A Yacht Rock Experience

April 19: Joel Hoekstra and Brandon Gibbs

April 20: The Ledbetters - A Tribute to Pearl Jam

April 26-27: Unforgettable Fire-U2

May 3: Michael McDermott

May 4: Suzy Roche & Lucy Wainwright Roche

May 11: British Invasion Years: A 60’s Musical Revolution

May 25: Ronstadt Revue featuring Gesenia

May 31: The Breakers 6123 Lower York Road, New Hope, PA. 215-794-2331; www.newhopewinery.com.

Women’s Centennial Committee of Langhorne

April 5: Cabin Jazz Trio 215-752-0854; www.langhornearts.org

EQUESTRIAN

Bucks County Horse Park

April 14: Dressage4Kids Benefit Show

April 21: Schooling Combined Test

April 27: LVDA Schooling Dressage (rental)

April 28: Mounted Games (rental)

May 5: USEF/USDF ~ Dressage at the Park I

May 7: Tuesday Eve Dressage

May 10: Friday Evening Eventing

May 18: Goat Show (rental)

May 19: Schooling Horse Trial

May 26: TMHS Spring PreVu Show

May 27: Memorial Day Hunter Pace

June 4: Tuesday Eve Dressage

June 13: Thurs. Morning Horse Show ~ Hunter/Jumper

June 14: Friday Evening Eventing

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

Annual Winterthur Point-to-Point

May 3: Join us at one of the Brandywine Valley’s most stylish sporting events. Pack a picnic lunch or a tailgate spread, bring the family, and take in the splendor of spring. Admission. Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library, 5105 Kennett Pike, Wilmington, DE; 800-448-3883; www.winterthur.org.

Willowdale Steeplechase

May 5: The Willowdale Steeplechase has long been a tradition of spectacular horse racing over fences. There will be a full day of activities for the entire family. Reserved parking. Admission. Routes 82 and 926, Kennett Square, PA; 610-444-1582; www.willowdalesteeplechase.org.

Tinicum Park Polo Club

Mid May-October: Enjoy the polo matches at Tinicum Park. Polo matches start at 2 p.m. on Saturdays. Weather permitting. Admission. 961 River Road, Erwinna, PA. 908-996-3321; www.tinicumparkpoloclub.org.

Radnor Hunt Races

May 18: The “Race for Open Space” features exciting races with horses galloping over hurdles and timber fences for substantial purses. Enjoy a tailgate picnic with friends and family. All proceeds from the Radnor Hunt Races benefit the Brandywine Conservancy’s environmental programs. Advanced admission. Reserved parking. 610-388-8383; www.radnorhuntraces.org.

Devon Horse Show and Country Fair

May 23-June 2: Come to the oldest and largest outdoor multi-breed competition

in the United States. Along with equestrian events, the country fair promises to provide fun for all. Admission. Devon, PA; 610-688-2554; www.devonhorseshow.net.

EVENTS

American Consumer Shows

March 16-17: Bucks & Montgomery Spring Home Show

April 20-21: Philadelphia Home Show 888-433-3976; www.acsshows.com.

Shadfest

Apri 27th - 28th:: Celebrate the annual shad run. There will be over 80 artists and crafters, along with live music, family fun, and food. Rain or shine. No admission fee. Lambertville, NJ. www.shadfest.com.

Bucks County Designer House & Gardens

April 28– May 6: This annual show house features the work of local landscapers and designers. It is an annual fundraiser to benefit the Village Improvement Association of Doylestown to support Doylestown Hospital and V.I.A. community projects. Advance admission. Cedaridge Farm, 93 Stover Park Road, Pipersville, PA; www.buckscountydesignerhouse.org.

Quakertown Alive!

May 18: Arts Alive! Fine Arts & Crafts Festival

Quakertown, PA; www.quakertownalive.com.

Annual Kutztown Folk Festival

June 29-July 7 : This event is the oldest folk life festival in America. Celebrating the Pennsylvania Dutch culture, the event features traditional craft demonstrations by juried American craftsmen,

the largest quilt sale in the nation, children’s activities, homemade food, historical reenactments, antiques, and live music. Kutztown Fairgrounds, Kutztown, PA. 888-674-6136; www.kutztownfestival.com.

Quakertown Dairy Queen Car Cruise

April 9, May 21, June 11, July 9, Come out and Cruise with the Motorvators! $1 donation per vehicle. All donations go to Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia

Trophies–50/50. Dairy Queen, 206 South Westend Blvd, Route 309, Quakertown, PA; www.goodtimemotorvators.com

Peddlers Village

Through April 14: Peeps in the Village

April 4, May 9, June 13: Breakfast Bingo

April 29-May 12: Cupcake Decorating Competiton

May 4-5: Strawberry Festival

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

Women’s Centennial Committee of Langhorne

May 25: Langhorne Memorial Parade: Women’s Centennial Committee of Langhorne

Invites girls and women from all over Bucks County to dress in white and march in the parade. One hundred years ago, brave and determined women marched for us. Now, on the anniversary, we honor their memory and legacy by marching in their honor. 215-752-0854; www.langhornearts.org.

Tree Trails Adventures Trevose

Ongoing: Private Climbs

March 15-17: St. Patrick’s Day-Lucky

the Leprechaun dash through the Tree Trails

March 29-31: Easter Celebration

April 21: Celebrate Earth Day

May 12: Mother’s Day Climb

May 17-19: Armed Forces Day- Active or retired climb free with purchase of companion ticket

June 14: Celebrate Summer with Glow in the Park Night Climbs

301 W Bristol Rd Suite A, Trevose, PA; www.treetrails.com

FAMILY

Ongoing: Come with your family and explore the aquarium, complete with a KidZone, shark tunnel, free live shows, a shark tunnel, and Shark Bridge. One Riverside Drive, Camden, NJ. 865-3653300; www.adventureaquarium.com.

Bucks County Children’s Museum

Ongoing: A fun, interactive, and educational environment for children, parents, and schools, with exhibits that reflect Bucks County’s history and culture. Ex-

hibits include Town Square, Factory Works, Artifact Dig, Covered Bridges, Tree House, and Hot Air Balloon Ride.

Activities are planned year round. Admission. 500 Union Square, New Hope, PA; 215-693-1290; www.buckskids.org.

The Crayola Experience

Ongoing: This fun and colorful children’s attraction features interactive Crayola exhibits. 30 Centre Square, Easton, PA; 610-515-8000; www.crayolaexperience.com.

New Hope & Ivyland Railroad

Ongoing: Hourly Excursions

March 16-31: Easter Bunny Express 32 West Bridge Street, New Hope, PA. 215-862-2332; www.newhoperailroad.com.

Sesame Place

Ongoing: Visit the nation’s only Sesame Street theme park. There are special

events throughout the park season. 100 Sesame Road, Langhorne, PA. 215-702-3566; www.sesameplace.com.

The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University

March 22: Dino’s after Dark

Through September 29: Life onto Land: The Devonian

Through September 2: Under the Canopy: Animals of the Rainforest Admission. 1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, PA. 215-2991000; www.ansp.org.

Shady Brook Farm

March-June: This Bucks County farm has lots in store this coming spring. They will be having gardening seminars, Easter events, and seasonal crop related fun. 931 Stony Hill Road, Yardley, PA. 215-9681670; www.shadybrookfarm.com.

Lehigh Valley Zoo

March 13: Zoo Rendezvous

Admission. 5150 Game Preserve Road, Schnecksville, PA. 610-799-4171; www.lvzoo.org.

The Franklin Institute

Ongoing: The Art of the Brick

Ongoing: Wondrous Space

Ongoing: Science after Dark 222 North 20th Street, Philadelphia, PA. 215-448-1200; www.fi.edu/en

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: Winter Wonder

March 24: Floral Feature: Peirce-du Pont House Conservatory

March 28: Up Close and Under Glass

March 30-May 5: Spring Blooms

April 5: George Hinchliffe’s Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain

April 6: Illuminate Your Landscape

May 4: Getting to Know Native Orchids

May 9-Spetember 29: Festival of Fountains

June 19: Capturing the Conservatory En Plein Air

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. 302-2394244; www.mtcubacenter.org.

Tyler Arboretum

Ongoing: Weekday Bird Walk

515 Painter Road, Media, PA; 610-566-9134; www.tylerarboretum.org.

The Morris Arboretum at the University of Pennsylvania

Ongoing:Fernery Self-Guided Tours

Through March: Winter Wonderland

Walks

Weekends: Garden Highlights Tour

100 East Northwestern Avenue, Philadelphia, PA; 215-247-5777; www.morrisarboretum.org.

Hortulus Farm

May-October: A one-hundred-acre 18th-

century 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

April: Museum Tours

April: Walking Tours 215-862-5652; www:newhopehistorical.org

Annual Lecture at Tyler Formal Gardens

April 27: Tyler Formal Gardens, April 27,10:00 a.m. 16th Annual Tyler Formal Gardens & Landscape Lecture, Topic: “For the Love of Garden: Establishing Jenkins Arboretum & Gardens as a Community Resource" Tom Smarr, Executive Director of Jenkins Arboretum & Gardens will lecture on one of the region's great horticultural and environmental

botanical garden assets. Encompassing 48 acres of world-class diverse plant collections. A tour of Tyler Formal Gardens will follow. $15 general admission, $10 vets & Bucks Alumni, $5 students with ID. Register online at www.bucks.edu/foundation/events.

Bucks C. Community College main campus, Zlock Performing Arts Center, 275 Swamp Rd., Newtown, PA

HISTORY

Battleship New Jersey

Ongoing: The Battleship New Jersey is open for guided and audio tours. Visitors can select from a variety of tours. Admission. Camden Waterfront, Camden, NJ. 856-966-1652; www.battleshipnewjersey.org.

Historic Craven Hall & The John Fitch Steamboat Museum

Ongoing: House and John Fitch Steamboat Museum Tours

Street and Newtown Roads, Warminster, PA. 215-675-4698; www.craven-hall.org.

Historic Summerseat

Ongoing: First Saturday of every month: The stately Georgian mansion of Summerseat is open to the public from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Free tours also available by appointment. Historic Morrisville Society, Hillcrest & Legion Avenues, Morrisville, PA. www.historicsummerseat.com.

Historical Society of Princeton

Ongoing: Historic Princeton Walking Tours (Sundays)

April 13: Princeton University Eating Clubs Tour

Updike Farmstead, 354 Quaker Road, Princeton, NJ. 609-921-6748 ; www.princetonhistory.org.

New Hope Historical Society

Ongoing: Walking Tours of Downtown

www.lambertvillehistoricalsociety.org.

Prallsville Mills

Ongoing: Tours of the Mill

33 Risler Street, Stockton, NJ. 609-3973586; www.prallsvillemills.org.

The Friends of Howell Living History Farm

April 6: New Faces Day

April 13: Spring Beekeeping & Tree Planting

April 20: Potato Planting

April 27: Spring Plowing & Field Work

New Hope

45 South Main Street, New Hope, PA. 215-862-5652; www.newhopehistorical.org

Lambertville Historical Society

April-November: Guided Walking Tours of Lambertville

March 26: On this Day in 1872

Marshall House Museum, 60 Bridge Street, Lambertville, NJ; 609-397-0770;

May 4: Hog Slopping & Weighing

May 11: Sheep Shearing & Herding

May 18: Corn Planting & Gardening

May 25: Haying & Wagon Rides

June 1: Dairying

June 8: Old Time Baseball Game

70 Wooden’s Lane, Lambertville, NJ. 609-737-3299; www.howellfarm.org.

Pennsbury Manor

Ongoing: Walking Tours

Thompson-Neely House

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

Washington Crossing Historic Park

April 14: Lecture: The Revolution’s Last Men: The Soldiers Behind the Photographs

April 15: Book Club: Misinformation Nation: Foreign News and the Politics of Truth in Revolutionary Pennsylvania

May 20: Book Club: Misinformation Nation: Foreign News and the Politics of Truth in Revolutionary Pennsylvania Washington Crossing, PA. 215-493-4076; www.washingtoncrossingpark.org.

Pearl S Buck

March 15: Opening of Hidden Gems: Fashioning A Legacy fashion exhibit, Pearl S. Buck International Conference Center

May 16: 60th Anniversary Gala, Pearl S.

Buck International Estate Pavilion

June 26: Living the Legacy Breakfast: 60 Years, Pearl S. Buck Historic Estate

March 15: Hidden Gems: Fashioning A Legacy

20 Dublin Road, Perkasie, PA. 215-249-0100; www.pearlsbuck.org

Holcombe-Jimison Farmstead Museum

May-October: Visit this Hunterdon County Museum that has preserved the region’s agricultural history from the 18th through 20th centuries. The site features regular events for the public. Admission. 1605 Route 29, Lambertville, NJ; 609397-2752; www.holcombe-jimison.org.

Historic Fallsington

Mid-May through Mid-October: Guided Tours

Admission. 4 Yardley Avenue, Fallsington, PA; 215-295-6567; www.historicfallsington.org.

Newtown Historic Association

March 24: Graveyard Tour of the Old Newtown Presbyterian Church.

April 15: Annual Business Meeting followed by “Treasures in the Attic”, Halfmoon Inn

April 27: Annual Spring Clean Up at the Half-moon Inn

May 18: Garden Walk in Newtown Borough starting at the Half Moon Inn

May 27: Memorial Day, Tribute to Local Veterans at the Callahan Research Center

June 1: Spring Garden Cocktail Gala at the Half Moon Inn

June 6: 5th Grade Student Walking Tour, Half-moon Inn Newtown, PA; 215-968-4004; www.newtownhistoric.org.

Erwin Stover House

Ongoing Weekends: Historic House open for tours

April 27: Erwinna Spring Festival

May 18: 1920s Jazz Age Dance

June 6: Assassination of Arthur Erwin

Tinicum Park, Upper Black Eddy, Pennsylvania; 267-421-1921

NATURE

Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve

March 22: Fourth Fridays: Out of the Mud, Beautiful Flowers with Priscilla Hayes

March 23: Knowing Native Plants: Signs of Spring with Mary Anne Borge

April 13: Knowing Native Plants: Spring Ephemerals with Mary Anne Borge

May 4: Knowing Native Plants: Late Spring Lovelies with Mary Anne Borge

1635 River Road, New Hope, PA. 215-862-2924; www.bhwp.org.

Bucks County Audubon Society at Honey Hollow

March 28- April 1: School Holiday Camp

www.churchvillenaturecenter.org.

Silver Lake Nature Center

March 16: Friends of SLNC Annual Meeting/Members Apperciation

March 23: Earthship Tours

April 1: Volunteer Work Day

1306 Bath Road, Bristol, PA. 215-7851177; www.silverlakenaturecenter.org.

Peace Valley Nature Center

Ongoing: Morning Bird Walks

April 13: Earth Day 2024

April 23: School Holiday Camp

2877 Creamery Road, New Hope, PA; 215-297-5880; www.bcas.org.

Churchville Nature Center

March 17: Camouflaged Egg Hike

April 13-14: Rock and Mineral Expo

April 27-28, May 4-5: Wildlife Sale Kickoff

Weekends

501 Churchville Lane, Churchville, PA. 215-357-4005;

Ongoing: Wednesday Walkabout

Saturdays: Family Forays

March 28: Winter Homeschool

Discovery

April 21: Introduction to Spring Foraging

April 24: Yalla Yoga

May 16-19: Plant Sale

June 21: Solstice Hike and Campfire

170 North Chapman Road, Doylestown, PA. 215-345-7860;

www.peacevalleynaturecenter.org.

Peace Valley Nature Center

Bucks Beautiful Kitchen & Garden Tour

Bucks Beautiful Kitchen & Garden Tour Sunday, June 9, 2024 -11 a.m.- 4 p.m. Rain or Shine

By Susan Sandor

Garden lovers, horticultural professionals and anyone needing planting or design inspiration will be thrilled to visit this remarkable property. The tour is taking place on Sunday, June 9th rain or shine. This event is guaranteed to get you oohing and aahing as never before. This is not to say that Bucks Beautiful has not provided the public with visits to other fabulous private houses and gardens over the past 28 years. But this selected property is unlike any other. Its spectacular octagonal house is perched on a hilly five acres notable for its unparalleled details and materials. Imagine. Over 500 tons of boulders and stone were brought in to create this rocky landscape with walkways, risers, planters,

walls, pathways, fireplace, water features, outdoor kitchen and a babbling brook. This immense project was designed and built in three phases in over five years by landscape designer, Justin Braley, of Sycamore Landscape Design Build of Doylestown, in collaboration with the home owners, Donald and Michelle Barder. The plant material is diverse and spectacular with trees, shrubs, ground covers, perennials, herbs, and succulents. Trees include serviceberries, dawn redwoods, sweet magnolia, Kousa dogwood, lilacs, pears and maples espaliered on a cedar arbor. The shrubs inventory is extensive including a purple smoke bush, cherry laurel, viburnum, weigela, boxwood, spirea, rhododendron, and several species of boxwood and hydrangea. There are too many

specimens to list them all. Be assured that a surprise awaits visitors at every turn.

As with every tour, Master Gardeners will be stationed at the octagonal house as well as all the other gardens on the tour, to answer questions about the plantings. Landscape designer and installer, Justin Braley, will also be there to share in the dialogue about his multimillion-dollar masterpiece.

Tickets will be on sale at bucksbeautiful.org for $35 through May 31st and $40 thereafter. Think about making this a gift for Mother’s Day. You also have the option of becoming a Bucks Beautiful member and getting free V.I.P. Kitchen and Garden Tour tickets, which allows early access to the gardens. Just one of the many benefits. Check the website for detailed information. Proceeds from ticket sales help with the beautification, education and reforestation efforts by this non-profit organization.v

Hi-Yo Silver Away!

Graphic artist and author Lee Felbinger began collecting radio Lone Ranger toys as a child and over the years has expanded and built up his collection by browsing Bucks County flea markets

Lone Ranger fans have never been alone. Generations upon generations have been drawn to the masked man who metes out justice in the Wild West since the show premiered on the radio in 1933 right on through to his origin stories on the big screen to today’s interpretations via streaming. With every version, kids and adults alike discover—or rediscover—those thrilling days of yesteryear.

Lee Felbinger, who first heard The Lone Ranger on the radio as a boy, has spent more than 50 years meticulously crafting a

way to keep those thrilling days alive and well and close at hand. Lee, who has lived right outside of Telford for 50 years, has amassed a stunning collection of Lone Ranger toys, memorabilia and collectibles. The 86-year-old said his fondest memories are of hunting for his treasures in Bucks County. “Everybody has something they really enjoy that you can’t put a price tag on. Mine was the early, early Saturday mornings with my white shepherd, going around all the Bucks County flea markets, the one on [U.S. Route] 202, the shops in New Hope. I would hop over to New Jersey to Lambertville, but a lot of my finds were

Photo: Paul Wesley

in Bucks County,” Lee, who has been married to wife Sue for 62 years and has two daughters and a son, as well as a white shepherd dog named Sadie Rose, said, “Peddler's Village has a flea market. I would go there. Sometimes I would get something, sometimes I wouldn't, but I enjoyed just looking and talking to the people.”

Bucks County has served as a building block for Lee’s vast collection, which, in turn, has served as the inspiration for three books as well as public showcases. Yet for Lee, it’s always been about each piece’s presentation and artistry, something he noticed even as a child. “I was always interested in the actual boxes the toys came in. They were so well done. The printing was so great. As a kid, I used to always wonder who comes up with all these ideas. That must be a great way to make a living,” Lee, who had a 45-year career as a graphic artist, manager and in sales promotion in advertising as well as a

teacher in and architect of the commercial arts program at North Montco Technical Career Center, said. “I think it was because of my art. I used to sit and listen to the radio and draw what I heard. I always said that was my art school.”

When radio actor Brace Beemer’s Lone Ranger—Lee’s personal favorite—was rolling over the airwaves, Lee could be found pen in hand, sketching the action. It was only natural to want any show premiums, especially if they figured into future episodes. These marketing items, which required cereal box tops and the like to get, were tied to the amazingly popular show that drew 20 million listeners, per a 1939 Saturday Evening Post article, before it galloped off to serials at the movie theaters, a successful television show that ran for eight years and a steady stream of reboots, remakes and rethinks over the ensuing decades.

Lee’s collection has everything from the expected to the personal to the downright odd. He has the Lone Ranger shoes; the shoebox I have with the Lone Ranger shoes; bib overalls. It includes dolls, cap guns, a rapid-fire revolver, a penknife, a penny bubble gum box, carved soap, games, books, comic books, a pistol toothbrush and holster, suspenders, advertisements, two different radios, a drawing Lee created at age 7 of the Lone Ranger his aunts had saved that he found decades later and a cowboy suit made by Herman Iskin & Co.

While visiting his aunts in his native Pittsburgh in the late 1960s, Lee stumbled across a box full of his past, and it turned out to be a life-changing discovery. “I went up in the attic, and I found all these radio premium rings I had sent away for. They glowed in the dark. There was a pedometer, and you'd wear it, and it would tell you how far you walked. That was the

thing that started me. I thought, ‘I have these in a shoebox. I'm going to start collecting Lone Ranger stuff to see what I can find.’ Then I started adding the toys, the gun and holster — whatever I could find,” Lee, who served in the U.S. Navy for four years aboard the USS Kittiwake and the USS Orion until his discharge in 1961, said. “I guess I was interested in how the character was marketed over the years and I thought, ‘I'll just start it as a hobby.’ And

it started as a hobby and grew.”

Lee’s collection has everything from the expected to the personal to the downright odd. It includes dolls, cap guns, a rapid-fire revolver, a penknife, a penny bubble gum box, carved soap, games, books, comic books, a pistol toothbrush and holster, suspenders, advertisements, two different radios, a drawing Lee created at age 7 of the Lone Ranger his aunts had saved that he found decades

later and a cowboy suit made by Herman Iskin & Co. of Telford. He considers among his prized possessions to be items that belonged to Brace Beemer himself, such as his boots, a necktie, a horse bridle and lots of silver bullets. “I have about 30 cereal boxes going back to 1943. Who kept cereal boxes?

Some people did. Whenever you find one, it’s great because the paper stuff didn't survive. Same way with the movie posters,” Lee, who has been creative onstage as an actor and backstage as a director for numerous plays at DCP Theatre in Telford, said. “The movie posters are twenty-nine inches by forty-one inches, and they’re beautiful. And the paintings. Some of the paintings are very large. They’re the original paintings. There’s a lot

of strange: You’ve got Lone Ranger shoes; the shoebox I have with the Lone Ranger shoes; bib overalls. There was a Lone

Ranger first aid kit. Some of the unique things were like the soap. They were painted. Each one was in a little box. You used it as bath soap. Whatever you needed, they made.”

Lee does not limit his collecting to just the Lone Ranger. Though always his pri-

mary aim when out for a search and rescue, he occasionally would come across tin windup toys on those sales tables. Wellcrafted and still working, he decided to indulge himself and a plethora of classic characters, including Buck Rogers, Superman, Popeye, Mr. Magoo and Mickey Mouse, have joined Lee’s stable. “I remembered them as a kid, and I wasn’t always able to buy one. I always thought they were pretty neat, so I would see one, I would buy it. After a while, you buy one or two a year, they start to add up,” Lee, who has had four white shepherd dogs throughout his life, including the first he named Silver who was born, fittingly, in Silverdale Borough, said, “When World War II came, everybody had to contribute to the war

effort. All these tin toys, anything that was tin or metal, were donated to the war effort, so they didn't survive. The ones that do survive are considered valuable. That’s the rationale behind it.”

In addition to writing the books Collector’s Reference & Value Guide to The Lone Ranger, which features more than 500 items such as lunchboxes, ashtrays, dolls and comic books, and two editions of Hi Yo Silver Away!! Lone Ranger Pictorial Scrapbook, Lee has occasionally taken some of his items out to play, including for the Who Was That Masked Man? exhibit at the Sellersville Museum in 2017. For now, he is creating his own artwork for fun, including a series of line drawings, and consistently delighting in and connecting with his life’s work. “I could just sell it, but why? I enjoy it. I still enjoy it. If I have a bad day, I come in here and I sit for a while and it changes my whole mental outlook. It relaxes me,” Lee Felbinger said. “I sit there, and I look, and I’m just amazed, number one, that I did this. I don’t look at the value. I look at what I've accomplished.”

Lee Felbinger’s books can be found on various websites, including Amazon.v

Cynthia Marone is a freelance writer who lives in Philadelphia.

Planning For Boggy Spots

Wet areas in the garden that are inhospitable to anything but mud and water can be drained off by planting water loving trees and shrubs that grow rapidly and use up the excess water in your garden

If you have a spot in your yard that is just too wet, try planting some trees or shrubs that can dry things out. Some water loving trees and shrubs can drain off surface water because of their rapid growth rates. They may be so efficient that soon you won't remember that the spot was ever boggy. Red or yellow osier dogwood, sweet bay magnolia, winterberry holly and willows are just a few trees and shrubs that will improve drainage of damp areas in the garden or yard. As they become established you can enhance them by planting water-loving perennials around them.

When the leaves fall and the temperatures drop, the colors of the osier dogwood stems brighten up an otherwise dull winter landscape. Red and yellow osier dogwoods (Cornus sericea) sport

lots of bright red or yellow branches during the cold months. Plant them in front of taller shrubs, or in front of evergreens to show off the radiant stem colors. Osier dogwood branches piercing a carpet of snow are simply delightful.

Osier dogwoods do best in full sun to develop their shiny red or yellow stems and will also do quite well in part shade. They will grow in just about any type of soil but do best with plenty of moisture. They can grow to nine feet high and ten feet wide, but they are easily pruned and look great at any size that fits your landscape needs.

I never thought we could grow magnolias up here in our hardiness zone, but joy of joys, we can. The Sweetbay magnolia (Magnolia virginiana) has gorgeous leathery green leaves with

sparkling silver undersides. And it can either grow as a tree with a single trunk, or as a large multi-stemmed shrub. Sweetbay magnolia is at its best on a June day when the silvery backed leaves are tousled by the wind and the lemony sweet fragrance of the creamy white flowers floats in the warm breeze.

Grow your Sweetbay magnolia in as much sun as possible. It adapts to most soil types, as long as it is moist to wet. When the flowers have faded, they are replaced with cone-shaped clusters of bright red berries enjoyed by turkey, quail and songbirds. This well-behaved southern belle won't take over the landscape, peaking at about twenty feet tall.

Every tree and shrub in the willow family loves water. The weeping willow (Salix babylonica) is a favorite of children of all ages, with its graceful, flowing branches and long trailing stems. It has inspired poets, artists and gardeners for centuries. The weeping willow is one of the first trees to leaf out in the spring, and one

of the last to shed its shimmering yellow leaves in fall. It is probably the prettiest tree you can plant alongside a stream or lake where the long branches can brush

In the wild, Winterberry holly grows in moist to wet soils, spreading into dense thickets.

the surface of the water. And there is no doubt—a weeping willow will drink up any water it finds for what seems like miles around, so take care to keep it well away from the house where it may try to send roots into water pipes.

Does anyone not recognize the pussy willow (Salix caprea)? This large shrub, which can flower as early as March 1 in our area, gives us the hope we need that

spring is around the corner. And if you just can't wait, cut some branches to bring inside. Put them in a vase of water and enjoy the show. Those beloved, fuzzy gray catkins are a simple joy. Combine them with forsythia or witch hazel for a late winter bouquet. The distinctly upright habit makes the pussy willow look like a small tree, and it can get big. Try pruning it back by one-third to one-half after it has flowered. This will make it produce bigger catkins next spring, the most enjoyable aspect of this vigorous, easy to grow plant. Pussy willows prefer moist to wet soil, and even enjoy having their feet in water. Try to plant them in full sun, although they will tolerate some shade.

The Winterberry holly (Ilex verticillata) is lovely as a specimen tree or planted as a hedge. A nondescript green shrub in spring and summer, it makes a nice background for more colorful annuals and perennials. But in fall, when the leaves drop (yes, there is such thing as a deciduous holly), the show really begins. Each of the

many fine branches is smothered in thousands of tiny, brightest red berries from September all the way through winter into January. What an amazing sight in the snowy landscape! Winterberry holly branches add incredible color to holiday decorations and give the birds a tasty treat when they need it most.

In the wild, Winterberry holly grows in moist to wet soils, spreading into dense thickets. In the garden, they will grow well in just about any type of soil, as long as it is somewhat moist. Plant them in full sun for the best winter color. Be sure to include one male plant for every three to five female plants for pollination, to guarantee plenty of berries.

Is there a troublesome wet area in your landscape that is in the shade? Thank goodness for the Virginia sweetspire (Itea virginica). One of the easiest shrubs to grow, these pretty plants have long, arching branches with lightly fragrant white flowers that look like fireworks in June and July. In fall, they turn lovely shades of

red and purple that nicely compliment evergreens, especially those with bluish needles. Naturally found along shady stream banks, the suckering and multistemmed shrubs form delicate looking colonies over time but are deceivingly tough. Although they prefer partial shade and wet soil, Virginia sweetspire is very adaptable; it will withstand heavy shade or full sun, wet or dry soils. What's not to love?

Maybe you have soggy areas in the landscape that are too small for trees and shrubs. If so, there are plenty of perennial plants that would love to live there. Easy care Siberian irises (Iris sibirica) lend an air of sophistication to wet areas. Slender stems with two to five flowers grow from late spring to early summer. The pretty purple blooms float atop a mound of foliage that remains attractive long after the flowers have faded. In the wild, Siberian irises can grow with the base of their stems in the water. These irises are not finicky and are easy to grow in full sun or partial shade, and moist to wet soil.

Then there's the yellow flag iris (Iris pseudacorus), the one on the French flag as the fleur-de-lis. These vigorous beauties grow in swamps and slow-moving bodies of water just about everywhere. This wetland iris can grow in dry conditions too but will spread with unbridled abandon in moist conditions. The bright yellow flowers grow from late spring to early summer on large plants with strap-like leaves that stay pretty throughout the season.

Don’t despair if your landscape includes wet areas that seem inhospitable to anything but water and mud. There are plenty of trees, shrubs and perennials that would just love to help you create a beautiful garden there, and make you forget you ever had a "water problem".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.

Grabbed By Light

Painting in his studio and in plein air, Michael Budden has painted wildlife, urban scenes and bucolic landscapes, but it is always the light that grabs him and makes him want to paint

He doesn’t remember how old he was, but Michael Budden knew early on that he had a rare talent.

He recalls it surfacing during the late 1960s, probably in the third or fourth grade. “I drew a poster of an alligator and knew it looked right,” he said. His teacher also took notice and so his long artistic journey began. Now painting for more than 40 years, his versatility of style and subject matter has grown considerably over time. He began painting North American wildlife but has since branched out to include landscapes, seascapes and urban scenes.

Composition, mood and lighting are important considerations when he paints. His goal is to capture a moment in time in a particular spot and explained, “It's the light that grabs you. Makes you stop and look and want to paint.”

Whatever the subject—a grizzly bear, a gondola in Venice, festive parade floats or a day at the beach—you get the sense you are right there experiencing what he sees.

He paints both plein air and out of his New Jersey studio. When he paints on location, his work tends to be looser and freer in style, while his studio work leans more towards realistic

representation, or what he calls impressionistic realism.

“When I was younger,” he said, “I discovered the art of Claude Monet and loved it, so I tried painting outdoors and enjoyed the struggle and progress I made with each new attempt. Although I still do a lot of studio painting, I have returned to this pure reaction approach to the beautiful stimuli I encounter every day, hopefully with a learned eye and honed skills.”

He works from a limited palette consisting of: white, black, cadmium yellow lemon, cadmium orange pure, alizarin crimson permanent (red), ultramarine blue, cerulean blue hue and sometimes sap green. “I do experiment with other colors,” he said, “but mainly work from these."

He begins by loosely sketching in his subject with a brush, then blocking in sections of color, moving from dark to light values. He works lean to fat, applying the paint thinly in the beginning and heavier towards the end.

He enjoys studying various periods in

art history and especially likes realism and impressionism. Mike studied art at Mercer County Community College and the College of New Jersey from 1976-1980 receiving degrees from both.

He was born in Trenton, NJ in 1957, the middle child of three boys. He first lived in Hamilton Township and later moved to Bordentown, NJ around 1969. The move was pivotal for him. “It was a great change for me personally,” he said. Whether it was a more relaxed place to live or that his teachers clicked with him, “I blossomed as an artist from there on,” he said.

His mother especially supported his art, providing opportunities and pushing all of her boys to succeed.

After graduating from Bordentown Regional High School and later college, he set his sights on teaching art but found it difficult to pass any of the interviews. Fate, it seemed, had other plans for him, and he began painting in earnest. He started doing landscapes but sensed they were

lacking something. “I thought they could benefit from some wildlife,” he said. It turned out he excelled at painting wildlife and became incredibly successful at it. From the early 1980’s through 1994 he won over 100 awards in shows across the country and his paintings appeared on collector plates, cards and calendars raising awareness for wildlife preservation. He went from selling his work at just hundreds of dollars to thousands in a period of roughly two years.

Today his paintings can be found in many private and corporate collections as well as the collections of three museums dedicated to wildlife art: the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum, Wausau, WI; the Hiram Blauvelt Wildlife Museum, Oradell, NJ; and the Bennington Center for the Arts, Bennington, VT.

Over time, wildlife art wasn’t selling as well and more contemporary styles of painting were becoming popular. “I needed a wider audience,” he said.

In 1989, he became dissatisfied with

studio painting and was introduced to plein air painting by a friend in Montana. The two met for a week in Yellowstone Park where they painted amidst the destruction of the 1988 wildfires.

During the 1990’s he focused on painting landscapes and seascapes and in a short while began winning awards for his work. Also during this time, tragedy struck when his father-in-law died suddenly.

Mike recalled, “We were building our new house in 1993 back then and would visit the property." He remembers going out for breakfast with his father-in-law one day and the next day he was gone. His passing had an immediate impact on Mike, driving him to get a regular job and take care of his family.

A teaching opportunity arose at Palmyra High School in Palmyra, NJ where they were looking for not only an art teacher, but someone to start the junior high boys’ basketball program. Mike had been playing a lot of basketball with a group of teachers while he was substitut-

ing at Northern Burlington County Regional High School, so he fit the bill nicely.

In 2006, he changed subject matter again and began painting urban scenes. His cityscapes of New York City, Philadelphia, Chicago, Boston and Washington, D.C. highlight iconic landmarks and street scenes. In his NYC paintings, intimate vistas of the Brooklyn Bridge, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, the Statue of Liberty and even hot dog vendors capture the verve of city life.

Mike has painted several versions of the triangular shaped Flatiron Building in NYC. “The Flatiron is special to me because it was the first skyscraper painting won a major award at the Salmagundi Club in NYC. It is within a short walk from the Salmagundi Club and I have visited it often when I was actively painting NYC scenes.”

Of all the versions, perhaps the most haunting is Flatiron Circa 1902. Complete with gaslit street lamps and a horse drawn carriage, the scene is veiled in mist and

takes us back to another era.

Claudia Seymour, former president of Salmagundi Club, said of Mike, “He has a gift for capturing light so clearly that it defines a moment in time and space that is evocatively real.”

In the painting pictured here, Evening Transitions, New Hope Lambertville Bridge,” Mike further demonstrates his ability to magically render light.

While most of his landscapes lack people, he includes figures in several of his seascapes and urban scenes, such as the award winning painting, The Lunch Crowd. Here we see New Yorkers huddled on a bench eating lunch while hungry pigeons hover at their feet.

Mike has won many awards throughout his career, and one of several highlights was designing the 2006 White House Easter Egg representing New Jersey. He met First Lady Mrs. Laura Bush during the unveiling of the exhibit at the White House where he and his family got a tour.

continued on page 168

LONDON PURCHASE FARM

Roger Pomerantz and his wife Cathy Cole see their stay at London Purchase Farm, as tenants with a sacred stewardship rather than as the owners of this important historic treasure that was crucially important to the American Revolution

BY BETH S. BUXBAUM

As spring begins to unfold and the landscape comes alive, London Purchase Farm is awakened again. This property, established in the early 1700s, was the site of strategic meetings during the Revolutionary War with George Washington, Colonel Alexander Hamilton and General George Knox. As the most recent stewards of London Purchase Farm, Roger Pomerantz and Cathy Cole are surrounded by this history. Entering into the many stories of the events that took place here, they are enjoying the journey.

Living in an historic home is quite a departure from their former life in Chalfont. Roger

Photos: Randl Bye

Top, gracing the side of the London Purchase Farm landscape is a 280 year-old weeping cherry tree. Bottom left, walking along a path from the back gardens and pool is a raised kitchen garden with a variety of vegetables, herbs and fruit plants. Bottom right, a side view of the Pennsylvania bank barn built in 1783.

and Cathy lived for thirty years in a French Provincial ranch-style home. After so many decades, they were looking for a change. “I wanted a new adventure,” Roger explains. World travelers and adventurers, they were ready for something different or a change in venue. Semi-retired, Roger was a doctor of infectious disease; as well as the founder and CEO of a biotech company and currently serves on the boards of several biotech companies.

Cathy was a retina specialist in a practice in the Philadelphia suburbs.

This yearning for a change began during the pandemic and resulted in a decision to find a new home. “We knew we wanted to stay in the area and began working with a realtor from Sotheby’s,” Roger adds, “and she showed us a series of large mansions.” As they toured these properties they knew this was not what they were looking for in a home. “We wanted something with character,” adds Cathy. “Over the years we had friends who lived in small farmhouses and I was attracted to that type of life,” she adds. Maybe that was the compass that redirected their search. As they continued viewing homes, their realtor asked what they needed to see to feel it was the right property. “We said we need to say WOW,” says Roger. One day, in 2020, the realtor called and said “I think we have your WOW!”

For Roger and Cathy, London Purchase Farm, in Upper Makefield, was the wow. From the beauty of the landscape, in an expansive private setting, to the authenticity of the interior, they were taken by all that this

homestead had to offer. “Then we learned the history and that was what got us,” Cathy shares. “We could envision ourselves in all the different spaces,” Roger adds. Not only was the homestead centuries-old, the current owners honored that history with an authenticity and detail that enhanced the properties appeal. Rooms were filled with Colonial furniture and artifacts, walls and wood trim were finished in Colonial colors. The house itself told the story of its expansion throughout the decades. Roger and Cathy were interested. The property never went on the market. A private sale took place in November of 2020. “We got to know the prior owners, who had lived here for 20 years, and they became our friends,” Roger explains. Roger points out how this couple, who were selling this historic manse, maintained the home’s integrity. They authenticated the interior of the home with many colonial-era furniture pieces and a color palette in deep red and mustard tones. Appreciating this replication of interior style, Roger and Cathy bought many of the furniture pieces and, in some cases, entire room settings.

Top left, a formal, grand entrance to the manor house was added in the early 1800s. Bottom and opposite, off of the grand entrance hall is a formal sitting room created after joining the office and bedroom of General Henry Knox.

At the time of purchase the property totaled 42 acres, a portion of the original 70 acres evidenced in a Revolutionary era map dating back to 1781. “We wanted to bring the property back to its early acreage,” Roger explains. Dotted across the landscape are seven streams, a pond and a springhouse. Roger wanted to buy and conserve the other 28 acres that comprised the original land. “We were able to purchase smaller plots of land surrounding their property with the help of Jeff Marshall,” Roger adds. After the purchase they conserved two-thirds of the land. “One positive outcome was that we bought one plot of land that was marked for a development,” he says. That was the best thing we did and even our neighbors thanked us.” Preserving this history and the land it sits on was definitely a major priority.

Historical accounts state that William Penn purchased 5000 acres of land from the British Crown and then sold 265 acres to the London Land and Trading Company in 1711. John Chapman bought the acreage from the London Land and Trading Company in the early 1700s, which explains the reference to the farm’s name. This homestead played a major role during the Revolutionary War.

The conservatory, a 2020 addition, is illuminated with the natural light streaming in through the floor-to-ceilings windows. This room is finished in white wood trim around the windows and a coffered ceiling. This airy room has been appointed in several soft blue tones.

Records indicate that the Chapman house, (as it was also referred to) was the headquarters of the artillery portion of the American army under General Henry Knox and Colonel Alexander Hamilton in December 1776 Roger states that “this headquarters was utilized and lived in by General Henry Knox and Colonel Alexander Hamilton, who commanded the Artillery of the Revolutionary Army.” General Knox had an office and bedroom on the east end of the first floor. In the early 1800s this space was transformed into one large formal sitting room. Evidence that it was one room lies in the existence of two fireplaces. On the other hand, the Hamilton bedroom, in the rear of the manor house is fully intact.

According to accounts, George Washington would meet with Knox and Hamilton here, and soldiers practiced maneuvers and artillery on the front lawn of the property. On Christmas Eve, December 24, 1776 Washington, Hamilton and Knox crossed the Delaware to fight in the Battle of Trenton. A plaque on the property reads: “it is on the ‘London Purchase Farm, circa 1735, headquarters of General Henry Knox and Captain Alexander Hamilton in 1776, before crossing the Delaware River with George

Opposite, this view of the kitchen, part of the great room, shows a bank of windows that brighten the space with natural light. Accented with the original wood beam ceiling and floors, as well as the original fireplace from the 1800s, this renovated room now has an open feel. Top, a cozy family room flows off the kitchen, all part of the more recently transformed great room. Bottom, the dining room, added in 1760, is where history took place. As the meeting room during the Revolutionary War, this is where Washington, Hamilton and Knox strategized.

Washington during the Revolutionary War, National Register of Historic Places, Washington, D.C.” An extensive list of owners begins with William Penn in the late 1690s and the London Trading Company and then it stayed in the Chapman family from 1711 to 1844. From 1845 to 2020 there were 19 different owners with some living here only few years and others spanning decades.

Originally built in 1735 by John Chapman, known as the surveyor, this home consisted of one first floor room with one room above. Roger explains that this first floor room, with all the original wood floors and wood beams, was the tavern room. Available for use by travelers, one corner of this room has a caged bar area. As Roger relays the story, the cage was built around the bar to prevent the unruly patrons from having a free-for-all with the alcohol. Completing this room is a spacious sitting area with a huge walk-in fireplace. Adjacent to the bar is a back staircase to the upstairs room. “On the second floor of the tavern was the bedroom, where travelers (only men) would share a half cot,” Roger continues. Interestingly, Roger speaks of “a legendary ghost described as a male dressed in green garb from the 1700s who descends that back staircase to the tavern room. Roger shares that the last time there were accounts of the ghost appearing was in the 1960s. As the earliest section of the house, it has been preserved and remains as it was in 1734.

John Chapman, the surveyor, died in 1743, and left the property

EXPANSIONS TO THE MANOR HOUSE DID NOT OCCUR AGAIN UNTIL 2020, WHEN A FOURTH SECTION WAS ADDED TO CREATE A CONSERVATORY AND A SECOND FLOOR PRIMARY BEDROOM SUITE.

Opposite top, an expansive landing on the second floor with a stairway to the third floor. In the background is the entrance to the primary bedroom’s sitting room. Opposite bottom, a cozy and inviting sitting room sits off of the primary bedroom suite. Top, a four-poster bed fills the primary bedroom suite. Bottom. this was Alexander Hamilton’s bathroom with the original clawfoot tub.

ACCORDING TO ACCOUNTS, GEORGE WASHINGTON WOULD MEET WITH KNOX AND HAMILTON HERE, AND SOLDIERS PRACTICED MANEUVERS AND ARTILLERY ON THE FRONT LAWN OF THE PROPERTY.

to his son, Dr. John Chapman the 3rd, who was three at the time of his passing. Dr. John Chapman, who attended the Medical College of Pennsylvania, (now the University of PA Medical School) inherited the property when he turned 21 in 1761. There is historical evidence that he was living on the property and it was likely that the core of the house was built in the 1760s, which added a dining room that was believed to have been built for Dr. Chapman’s wife. The room was the meeting room during the war where Washington, Hamilton and Knox strategized.

By 1810 the son of Chapman the 3rd took possession of the property and added a third section to create a more formal and grand entrance to the manor house. Roger explains that there was more wealth by this time and Chapman the 4th wanted to show his wealth with a more luxurious entry. With this addition the roof was raised and a third floor was added serving as the quarters for the children and nanny. Expansions to the manor house did not occur again until 2020, when a fourth section was added to create a conservatory and a second floor primary bedroom suite. With properties of this age several additions are constructed over the years, some more seamlessly than others. As one moves through the additions in this manor home the interior

Opposite top, in the original 1734 room, the tavern room, with all the original wood beams and floor, is complete with a caged bar in one corner and a staircase to the original second floor on the left. Opposite bottom, a view of the original 1734 room from the caged bar and staircase, shows the sitting area and huge walk-in fireplace adorned with a series of antique bellows from the 1800s. Above, this space functioned as a connecting room, as a transition from the oldest section of the house to the newer section. A vignette of farm artifacts is on display in this space.

is like a jigsaw puzzle. Roger and Cathy shared that they got lost when they first moved into the house. Having a sense of rambling, the connectors are a series of staircases or steps throughout, moving up and down, from century to century. Once acclimated and familiar with the interior, Roger and Cathy began to fill the living areas with all their favorite things. As world travelers they have collected an array of items representative of the countries they visited. In addition to the many art pieces, artifacts and items of cultural significance in their collections, they also have artwork from local artists. Rooms are accented with an eclectic styling, mixing antique and modern, and in some cases maintaining the room and its period-specific appointments as they were when they first visited the manor house.

While enjoying the authenticity and historical relevance of the manor house, they did decide to upgrade the kitchen and family room area that was added in the mid 1800s. Renovations were done to this space in 2020. Roger explains that it was very dark and outdated. After adding a bank of windows to bring in more light, they opened up the space to create a great room. Accented with the original wood beam ceiling and floors, as well as the original fireplace from the 1800s, this

Above, transformation of the second floor of the bank barn created a multi-function space enveloped in rich wood tones. They designed and created a conference and dining area, plus a library complete with built-in bookshelves and rolling ladders. Opposite top, the tobacco barn was converted into a guest house. In view is the informal eating island, a living room and in the back a formal dining area.

renovated room now has an open feel. During this renovation an addition was built to create the conservatory and a second floor primary bedroom suite. Awash with the natural light streaming in through the floor-to-ceilings windows, the conservatory is a departure from the design elements of the early sections of the house. Wood trim around the windows and the coffered ceiling is finished in white. This airy room has been appointed in several soft blue tones and brings a breath of calm and relaxation to the living space. A view from the walls-of- windows showcases all the greenery, trees in bloom and gardens on the landscape. Just outside the kitchen is a garden overflowing with a variety of vegetables, herbs and fruits.

Gardens and crops are part of the farm’s ambiance. What would a farm be without animals? During the purchase, Roger and Cathy decided to maintain the property and all it offered. “We bought the farm animals that lived on the property including four horses, a pony and goats,” Roger adds, “and we have bee hives. This is a diverse ecosystem.” Along with all that lives and grows on this expansive property is the original red bank barn that was built in 1783. A renovation was in order for this original structure. Floors and ceilings were redone and the second level was transformed into a multifunctional space enveloped in rich wood tones and consisting of a conference and dining area, plus a library complete with built-in bookshelves and rolling ladders. Other outbuildings on the property include a stone carriage house and tobacco barn built in 1794. The carriage house and tobacco barn have been upgraded and transformed into guest houses. Family and friends always enjoy staying in one of these guest houses, including their son.

As a fairly new residence for Roger and Cathy, they are still adjusting to their new lifestyle. Living in an historic house brings up many interdting questions, stories, and revelations. With so much to experience and enjoy, this move has proven to be a fulfilling new journey. “It’s a remarkable property,” adds Roger. Hopefully one they will treasure for many years to come. v

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

Plan, Plant and Tend

Backyard Eats can plan, plant and tend a vegetable garden that becomes part of your landscape, and you can eat delicious, fresh and healthy farm-to-table food everyday.

BY CHRYSA SMITH

Farm-to-Table—getting food from the farm to you, as quickly, closely and freshly as possible not only elevates taste—it elevates health. And even better is if that farm happens to sit in your own backyard. What fresher, better-tasting abundance can compete? Experienced gardeners have long known the joy and benefits that come from harvesting their own produce but that takes research and experimentation.

You need to know what you can grow and where. Water, sun, and planting requirements. How to protect from pests and solve problems when they present themselves.

Enter Backyard Eats. They’re in the business of eliminating all the guesswork and physical demands that come with managing a healthy, high-yield garden. They’ll plan a garden for you, set it up for its maximum condition and output, tend it and more. According to Mike Bennett, president, operations manager, and lover of all things environmentally friendly and organic, “Our purpose is to be a key driver in this greater movement.” Mike couldn’t reiterate enough how much they wanted to share the magic of home-grown food. And here’s how it all began.

Founder Chris Mattingly was working as a civil engineer designing landfills. When he got laid off, he turned his attention to his garden, and according to Mike, Chris was all about people doing

Above, the Backyard Eats team. Front row ( kneeling) from left to right: Omar Elbana, Milly Milano, Pat Boyle, Kate Weithers. Back row (standing from left to right: Payle Boyed, Ryan Sullivan, Jami Matis, Donna Bennett, Mike Bennett, Sage Forte, Tim Sweeting. Bottom left and opposite, Pat Boyle checking up on garden beds to make sure everything is planted correctly, growing and thriving with the right conditions, and harvested for you to enjoy.

this—working in a garden, growing their own food. The idea grew, Backyard Eats was born and Mike jumped on board the week before the pandemic hit. “We grew a ton during the pandemic, though it’s unclear whether our young company was growing due to the increased interest in gardening, or if we would have been growing anyway.

Salad was a personal health journey for Chris (now living in Maryland and a co-partner with Mike), after Mike says he was accustomed to a diet of burgers and fries. So, he jumped on the healthy, local food movement, and has not looked back since. But on an even broader scope, all celebrations involve eating. Regardless of season, what we put into our collective bodies matters. Personal health and a connection to clean food is not just important for an individual or family, but the community and community health— and it all starts with a seed.

Much like working with a landscape designer, Mike begins with a client meeting. “We go out to a property, meet with the owners and ask why—what they want; their needs and desires.” They ask how many people live there, what kind of critters they have in their garden, the water situation. The amount of sun, shade and where it is all located. The slope of the property, accessibility, and versatility. We ask, “Do you want to see the garden from your window—a tomato growing from your sight line?” he says. “There’s sometimes an idea that gardening is ugly and unruly, and we’re trying to change that.” They do

a digital 3D rendering, walk them through it on zoom. Then, any tweaks are made and when finalized,

the installation is scheduled.

Sounds fairly straight forward, but there is more—much more. “Most of our customers have a deepseated feeling about wanting to grow food.” Mike says. What is not always known is what. Our clients are always surprised to learn just how much you can do. People know the common crops like tomatoes, but there are 77 items on our order form.” And that includes items not commonly found in your grocer’s produce section.

“Annuals generally get raised beds,” Mike tells me.” They are not necessarily native, so their conditions need to be controlled.” The soil, the nutrients all require more attention. Perennials that are native can deal better with soil conditions, so can be planted directly in the ground, although still need care in planting. But it is all done with integration in mind. Long gone are the vegetable gardens randomly placed somewhere in the yard. They are made to be intentionally tied into the landscaping, perhaps just outside the kitchen window, with some functional herbs sprinkled in. And they are meant to be long-lasting with versatile crops that can be rotated in and out seasonally. “The common word is succession,” Mike says. Early on, it might be veggies like lettuce, asparagus, and spinach in spring, which gives way to tomatoes, squash, and other summer vegetables, which in turn gives way again to cooler crops. “We do rotate things from year-to-year. Plans are kept on file, and adjustments can be made as desired.”

Trellises are often used for vertical planting, for vines and trailers, cages for tomatoes, peppers, and

Backyard Eats builds anything from a backyard raised bed garden to a larger community space. Top, a raised garden: hemlock with ledge and trellis. Bottom, cedar with panel fence contruction. Opposite, the Ambler Community Garden.

zucchini. And depending upon the size of the garden, paths are formed for ease in tending. Wire fencing for pest control. “We want to drive engagement with nature,” Mike says. “Do it all in a tasteful way, so people want to make it a focal point.” But they are not only about in-ground veggies and functional herbs, but edible berries and fruit trees. And while size matters, for variety and yield, a residential garden can range from 16 x 16 plots, down to 2x 4 plots in more urban areas. “Most everyone has some option for eating fresh. It’s surprising just how much you can pack into a small garden,” Mike adds.

But planning and planting isn’t all they do—although it can be. The beauty of this business, besides their planning and planting, is that you can pick and choose what you’d like them to do from there on out. Mike says that 95 percent of their installations involve drip irrigation. So watering isn’t an issue. But they teach and maintain. So, if you want to maintain your garden yourself, no problem. They’ll teach you about pruning and harvesting. But Backyard Eats will do that too. During their regular visits, they will take

care of pest and disease control, and during visits is often when plans are tweaked.

There are about 10 people on staff, and Mike feels it’s important to keep it all internal. Not only does it make people more comfortable to consistently deal with the same contact people and those roaming about in their yards, but it also provides full-time agricultural work to otherwise seasonal workers. They’re truly all about community.

“We are a two-part business”, Mike says. It’s both installation and maintenance, and their job takes them through the seasons. “Our season starts in mid-February with planning and getting materials, plant stock lined up. It ends around Thanksgiving when the last garden remains are pulled out. But the installations happen year-round. In-between, they’re focused on their marketing. While much business comes from word-of-mouth, people will see their trucks or find them through social media. Mike says, “It’s about being part of a community—being there, taking an interest in it. It’s not that easy coming into a new community.” It’s a matter of gaining trust. The company is located in Flourtown, Montgomery County. And Mike says, “Having grown up in Chestnut Hill, there was a tight-knit community which was very much focused on homegrown food. It was a great little place to start.” Yet they managed to plant some 150 gardens last season, with 500 planted in total, all through the Greater Philadelphia area. “Once we get into an area,” Mike adds, “People start talking about us.”

Chatter grew in Westchester, after the company did an installation for a client’s farmhouse. Mike says they were engaged in some major renovations which included the gardens. There was a native meadow and the couple, with an interest in healthy food and cooking, wanted a place to grow their own produce. Backyard Eats got to work with the design, planning, planting, and tending. It stands 14 x 16 and includes the usual suspects such as cherry tomatoes, baby greens, carrots, and zucchini, but also hot peppers, Hakurei turnips (also called Tokyo turnips, which do not need to be cooked) and Delicata squash (sweet with an edible skin). Having little past success with gardens, Mike says, “They were fairly involved and ambitious but needed someone to do the heavy lifting. The fun garden things like pruning, harvesting and trellis training they learned over time with the help of weekly visits. They’d have the company come for any heavy lifting or more difficult gardening tasks like organic pest and disease control. Through the use of QR code plant labels came understanding how to harvest, store and cook from their garden increasing interaction and home cooking from their space.

Mike always gets a good feeling from not only doing some work for people but also from empowering

them to learn and grow.

They advise investing in infrastructure. Raised beds mean fewer weeds, and stronger plants make them more resilient. The right soil, fencing, gates, pathways, trellising are key ingredients. Mike says people sometimes wonder why their crops are not performing well, and think it’s plant quality or spacing, when it can be resolved with the right conditions.

Luckily for them, the competition is little. “There are landscapers who will build gardens, but not offer the services we do.” And being a gardener and nursery person are quite different. In the beginning Backyard Eats grew all their plants from seed. After the growth of the business, it became clear that they needed to work with hand-picked nurseries, which have served them well.

Community takes on a whole other aspect when Backyard Eats works with community gardens, such as in schools and neighborhoods.” It’s extremely rewarding to work with groups. Kids are often involved, and we have a cool position in which to transfer ideas and information.” Many children don’t connect eating with planting/gardening, so there’s a great teachable moment, transferring the idea of not only eating to live, but to grow it to eat and live well. “We’re often dealing with a couple of moms who volunteer to get it going,” Mike says, “We help with the plan, show them renderings and then light the fire.” Since grants are often involved, the process can be longer and more involved than residential projects. Crowdsourcing is an option too, allowing schools to be funded for such projects. And in these installations other things need to be considered, such as the age of children who will be tending it and disability accessibility. In the end, the education is passed along to kids lucky enough to learn that food doesn’t start out in a grocery store.

Mike describes one community garden as extremely rewarding. The Ambler Community Garden was born

A

“We must overcome the notion that we must be regular…it robs you of the chance to be extraordinary and leads you to the mediocre” – Uta Hagen

Crowdsourcing is an option too, allowing schools to be funded for such projects.

thanks to a community garden group in Ambler Borough. According to Mike, “The borough obtained a grant from the county, to build a garden in Knights Park (a busy, multi-use park complete with bocce and basketball courts, skateboard, and picnic areas), “But, they didn’t have the direction, knowledge or manpower to make it happen.” So, Backyard Eats rolled up their sleeves and began designing a garden that would both teach and feed. They organized workdays with the help of some dedicated volunteers, did the installation of a 40 x 60 garden, and provided families in the area with such abundance, they were able to donate many storable edibles. Tomatoes, beans, carrots, and hardy greens, interesting fruits, such as raspberries, blackberries and elderberries and more—about 600 combined pounds of it were donated to organizations providing food to those in need; both Weaver’s Way Community Fridge (a one-time co-op), and Mattie N. Dixon Community Cupboard (where neighbors provide for other neighbors).

Mike says that it’s great to be a key driver in a greater movement that effects health. “Being an influencer in a trend that’s already happening is what keeps us going.”

Backyard Eats is located at 810 Bethlehem Pike Suite A, Flourtown, PA 19031. For more information, call 215613-4883; mike@backyard-eats.com or visit www.backyard-eats.com. v Chrysa Smith is a regular contributor and proponent of clean eating.

Stretching Indoor Space

Dan Miles, owner of Miles Decks, adds on to homes to stretch their indoor space just beyond its borders and create a place to gather with family and friends

For outdoor lovers, it’s the ultimate indulgence. A chill in the air. A warm, cozy blanket wrapped around them. In front view, a blazing fire, a few favorite snacks, and the Super Bowl on a big screen outdoor tv. Simply heaven—and better than a $7,000 NFL ticket.

Dan Miles of Miles Decks in Langhorne received such a photo from one of his clients. Even in winter, they were enjoying their outdoor space–and so are hundreds of others, through heat and through cold, throughout Bucks, Montco and surrounding areas.

“I have always loved working with my hands, creating and being outdoors,” says Dan Miles. “It’s edifying to see something you built that will leave a mark on someone’s world.” And outdoors is where his company shines. Whether it be decking, hardscaping, pavilions, covered structures or outdoor kitchens, Dan seems to understand what people want—and that is a way to stretch their indoor space just beyond its borders. A place

Photo: By Bobby Waite

to gather with family and friends that’s light and airy, open, and casual.

So, what about decks? “About 90 percent plus of our decking jobs are done with composite material,” he says. You’ve seen the ads. You might even have one of your own. “We use a lot of Trex. They’re the market leader and we haven’t had any problems,” Dan adds. Trex is a composite that is relatively maintenance-free. They have no mold or mildew problems, a large selection of colors from which to choose and a finish that’s colorfast.

“Most of our customers are in their 50s and 60s,” Dan says, “They want it done with no maintenance.” Gone are the days of staining and re-staining wooden decks. From his experience, treated lumber just doesn’t hold up. So right now, the only natural woods they use are exotic—for clients who want that extra special touch. “Even younger clients are not choosing traditional wood,” says Dan. “In the past, fathers would opt out of a social activity to stay

home and stain a deck. Fathers are now busy and involved with their kids, so nobody has the time to do it anymore.”

Time is certainly one of the reasons why Miles has been so busy. But so is a job well done. “Our customers tell us how great the work is,” he adds. While some contractors leave certain aspects of the job up to their customers, like applying for permits, Miles Decks takes care of the project from start to finish. There can be slightly different permitting requirements from township-to-township. Dan simply says, “We do it all.’

They certainly seem to. “Structures are built mostly in-house,” he says. So, they control the design. Even with hardscaping, the buck stops with them. Customers generally like to deal with one person—someone who manages the job throughout. Someone they can trust. “I want customers to know I’m not just a guy, but a community partner,” says Dan. He wants customers to feel that experience-oriented feel—walking people through it. “I’ve been the lead salesman for 27 years, and while I’m looking to bring others into it, they need to have the same vision.”

There’s much word-of-mouth references, which come largely from Dan’s local involvement. He does a lot with local kid’s teams and organizations— really planting himself into his community. And then, it’s about repetition.

From digital impressions like Google to social media to their showroom. People hear about him, see his work, come to the showroom to have a chat. “We walk them through the process,” Dan says. He asks lots of questions to help clients make their decision, since many times, they’re not completely sure what they want. “We ask how long will you be in the house? What’s important to you?” adds Dan. Perhaps how many people live in the house, what kind of entertaining they do. It’s all relevant in the selection process.

For example, if people do a lot of entertaining, they may want an outdoor kitchen area where people can gather at a counter, have a drink, socialize, and grab something off a grill. If they intend

They have no mold or mildew problems, a large selection of colors from which to choose and a finish that’s colorfast.

on staying in their house a long time, Dan will likely steer them towards composite decking that wears, gets hosed off and perhaps every so often, washed with a mild detergent and soft bristle brush. “We can find a decking that makes you happy. It’s almost like carpet. We’ve never had more colors, innovation, ways of putting them together.” According to Dan. The sky’s the limit, even if the budget isn’t. They’ve also forged longterm relationships with companies with better warranties and pricing, which can be in turn, passed along to customers.

If the look of hardscape is preferred, Dan advises that it needs re-sanding. Weeds will grow and objects like wet leaves can leave marks. While initially less expensive, there can be more main-

tenance involved. And if someone wants some shade added, Dan will discuss three season rooms with windows, insulation, and heaters. “We do a lot of blended projects,” he says. “People come in with large plans, find out the price and I’ll suggest alternatives, like integrating cooking areas and decks, opening a new design scape by offering more.”

From flat decks to two-story, to blended, they’ve about done it all. Small townhouse decks to the most popular size: 25 X 16 or 30 X 20. But if needed, they can do a 25 X 100 pavilion if you’ve got the space. The whole pre-build process will take about 8-12 weeks by the time permits are pulled and in hand. So, if you’re thinking about increasing your

Customers generally like to deal with one person—someone who manages the job throughout.

outdoor space, it seems it’s never too early.

When asked about his favorite projects, Dans says, “They’re all my children. But I did build a great porch and fireplace up on Ferry Road.” And he’s just completing a commercial project for a country club in Central Bucks County. So adding on is a lot more than space. It’s enjoyment of spending time outdoors, more entertaining options, and if you’re lucky, maybe someone else to do the grilling for you.

Miles Decks is located at 2310 Big Oak Road, Langhorne, PA. For more information, call Miles Decks at 215-5892273 or visit www.milesdecks.com. v

Chrysa Smith is a contributor to the magazine, with a keen interest in all things home.

Making Garages Over

Ric Edwards of Garage Experts of Eastern PA brings 30-plus years of experience to renewing and making over garages

Today’s homeowners are looking to stay in their current homes and remodel various rooms versus building or buying a new home.

One place often not given much thought is the garage. With a few changes, you can transform your dirty cluttered two-car garage into a more usable space. You can add some overhead bins or cabinets for storage, some slatwalls for organization, or even a colorful flaked epoxy floor. Ric Edwards, Owner of GarageExperts of Eastern PA, is the specialist to call to get your garage makeover into motion.

Covering Philadelphia, Allentown, and all of their surrounding counties, GarageExperts of Eastern PA is ready to show you the future in home improvement. According to Edwards, his background includes 30-plus years in the residential home building and renovation business. “My masonry experience intersects well with the great products that are made right here in the

Images provided by GarageExperts, International LLC. Style

United States and come with lifetime warranties,” Edwards says.

First on the list of products is a line of fullback cabinetry that is designed for strength and lots of storage capacity. The easy-to-clean cabinets from GarageExperts are custom built for each customer. There are many sizes, finishes, styles, colors, and countertops to choose from. Customers also can pick pulls, door hinges, adjustable shelves, door slides,

Opposite, cabinets are perfect for organizing, storing tools and keeping the floor uncluttered. These are Chocolate Cabinets. Above left, Epoxy flooring can be installed in one day. This handsome pattern is called quarter inch Dolphin. Top right, are some red cabinets. Below, are Walnut Cabinets..

and child safety locks. “The cabinets are perfect for organizing, reducing clutter, and getting stuff off of the garage floor. You can use them for tools, car parts, pool accessories, or your pantry items like paper products and detergent,” Edwards adds. All of the cabinetry is CARB certified. This means the wood products have reduced formaldehyde emissions.

Another great way to organize the garage is through an industrial strength slatwall. You can display items with baskets, hooks, and other accessories. “We offer different colors of slatwall to match your cabinets,” Edwards notes. Slatwalls can be used for hanging such items as electrical cords, bikes, power tools, yard equipment, lawn chairs, gardening tools, motorcycle gear, and sports equipment.

For storage of bulky items like coolers, car covers, ladders, and storage tubs, you can have overhead storage racks installed in the garage. These out-

of-the-way items are constructed of heavy gauge steel and have thicker wire shelves. They also are powder coated for durability.

Aside from the storage options is the company’s popular selection of floor coatings. The maintenance-free coatings are eye catching and easy to clean. Their industrial epoxy flooring can handle foot traffic, oil, gasoline, and salt from winter storms. The durable coatings attach to the existing concrete floor and will not crack or peel. Customers can choose from several epoxy floor coating colors and flake combinations. Many garage floor coatings can be installed in just one day and have low VOC ratings. “Most clients go with an epoxy flake floor. For a plain epoxy, we can get very close to matching most Sherwin-Williams paint colors. We also are using the epoxy for other concrete surfaces. We have finished sidewalks, floors in kitchens, basements, and sunrooms. Believe it or not, concrete coun-

tertops in kitchens are becoming more popular,” Edwards says.

“When I am done with these garages, some people go another step further and convert them into man caves.” Imagine fellas, a special space of your own, with a mini fridge, some memorabilia, a recliner, and a flat screen TV. Perhaps a special space for your vintage car. You can get the wheels in motion by making an appointment with Ric Edwards of GarageExperts of Eastern PA. He will come out to your residence and give you an estimate. You can call him at 484-821-5853. If you prefer, you can send an email to ric.edwards@garageexperts.com. For more information online, visit GarageExperts of Eastern PA on Facebook or www.garageexperts.com. v

Mary Beth Schwartz is a freelance writer who frequently contributes to regional publications.

JERSEY SHORE Mystique

EVERY YEAR BUCKS COUNTIANS COME TO THE JERSEY SHORE TO SWIM, TAN, RELAX, VISIT MUSEUMS AND HISTORIC SITES, BE ENTERTAINED, WALK BOARDWALKS AND STAY IN BEAUTIFUL SUMMER HOMES AND HOTELS.

By Bob Waite

The mystique of the Jersey Shore and the Atlantic Ocean bring a variety of people from all over the world to vacation there. There they get to relax, enjoy sandy beaches and get lots of sunshine. Those who retire become the favored locals who stay all-year long and become part of the slower paced but adventurous life that others who moved there have. Home buyers also include the many whose offices are virtual and want to operate from a home with a scenic view. The New Jersey Shore also many art associations, entertainment and besides bathing, sunning, surfing and fishing, the Jersey Shore has beautiful lighthouses, bird and wildlife sanctuaries, museums, theatres, night clubs and even gaming. The 130 miles of beaches are spread over four counties and they all have in common beautiful beaches and the Atlantic Ocean. They also have aspects about them that are unique and different than each other.

MONMOUTH COUNTY

Monmouth County has historical sites like Fort Hancock at Sandy Hook, The Great Auditorium in Ocean Grove, the Stephan Crane House (home of the Monmouth County Historical Society), Asbury Park Convention Hall and the Presidents Church in Long Branch.

Although not an historical site, the city Asbury Park has an interesting history. Beginning with the inception of the town in 1871, the boardwalk began to attract entrepreneurs and entertainers. By the 1920 people were coming from areas outside the region and building was on the upswing. Eventually it became known for its amusements and entertainment. The boardwalk became famous for the large Convention Hall building, Carousel Building and all the eating venues and boardwalk games. Then came a steady decline. But that changed in 2007 when a massive renewal and renovation began. Now Asbury is one of the queens among shore towns.

Spring Lake, although small and serene is a great place to shop. In this gorgeous Victorian town are a bookstore, candy shop, children’s clothing store, coffee houses, florist, a home & garden store, jewelry store, ice cream parlor and other interesting venues.

Long Branch is a town that specializes in the upscale. Long Branch also boasts home-away-from-home beachside condos,

premier shops and restaurants at Pier Village. However, during the summer, there are free festivals, farmer’s markets and concerts, plus year-round historic sites, parks, shops and restaurants that offer something for every interest.

Monmouth County shore towns are known for quality entertainment. In Long Branch, for example, there is the New Jersey Repertory Theatre, founded in 1997 by SuzAnne and Gabor Barabas. Over two decades NJRep has produced 140 plays of which 125 have been world premieres. At the Axelrod Performing Arts Center in Deal you can see concerts, ballet and other musical productions.

To find out more about events and places to go and see in Monmouth County visit Monmouth County NJ Tourism at www.tourism.visitmonmouth.com, and Visit NJ at www.vis itnj.org/Monmouth.

OCEAN COUNTY

Ocean County has boardwalks rides, theme parks and water adventures. At Seaside Heights there is the Casino Pier. There are rides for all ages, as their website says, “from 0 to 103.” It also features Midway Games stands, Go-Karts, Miniature Golf, Food stands and an arcade. Breakwater Beach Waterpark is a fun and family-friendly waterpark located right across from Casino Pier. They have waterslides, a wave pool,

cabanas and private parties.

NEW JERSEY SHORE

On Long Beach Island in Beach Haven is Thundering Surf Waterpark, a place to sit in a Cabana and take your family to full day of fun and relaxation.

Jenkinson’s Boardwalk in Point Pleasant also has an Adventure Lookout, an amusement park, an aquarium, a fun

For art lovers Long Beach Island has several galleries and art associations. These include LBI Artists, LBI Original Art of the Jersey Shore and the Long Beach Island Foundation for the Arts and Sciences.

house, batting cages, miniature golf, boardwalk arcades and boardwalk games.

For art lovers Long Beach Island has several galleries and art associations. These include LBI Artists, LBI Original Art of the Jersey Shore and the Long Beach Island Foundation

for the Arts and Sciences. Small galleries abound throughout Ocean County, some dedicated to a particular artist or to a school of painting and sculpture.

New Jersey’s most extensive collection of maritime history artifacts in can be found at the Museum of New Jersey Maritime History. In the museum you can see old nautical instruments, fossils, maps, uniforms, diving bells and deep diving equipment. For a more in-depth locations of all historical sites and museums in Ocean County, visit www.oceancountytour ism.com/history-museums.

Ocean County Parks and Recreation offers a wide variety of outdoor activities in 27 parks and conservation areas. With over 4000 acres of preserved and well maintained land you can enjoy hiking, biking, swimming, canoeing, fishing, ball fields, tennis courts and playgrounds.

ATLANTIC COUNTY

Atlantic County has several towns along the shore. These are most notably Brigantine, Atlantic City, Ventnor City and Margate. The main attraction at the Atlantic County shore is Atlantic City, which is billed as the gambling capital of the East Coast. There are nine casinos in Atlantic City. Entertainment

What are you waiting for?

“Hop on the tiki for a back bay cruise - morning, day, or night! You can relax with friends and family while listening to music, enjoying your favorite drinks, and surrounding yourself with breathtaking views. Make it a date night - a cruise for two! Or join us for a bachelorette or bachelor party. We offer it all at Cruisin’ Tikis.”

“We put smiles on people's faces... one cruise at a time!”

by recognized bands, singers and comics can be found in all the casinos and other entertainment venues, such as the Atlantic City Comedy Club at the Claridge and Bungalow Beach Bar

Besides casinos and nightlife, Atlantic City offers celebrity-chef restaurants, sumptuous spas, family-friendly activities, cultural attractions, championship golf and shopping at the 70 + stores at Tanger Outlets.

To find out more about events and things to do in Atlantic City, visit www.atlanticcitynj.com and www.vis itnj.org/city/atlantic-city.

CAPE MAY COUNTY

When people talk about the South Jersey Shore, they are most likely talking about Cape May County. Going south along the coast, it begins with Ocean City and ends with Cape May Point. In between are the beautiful South Jersey towns of Sea Isle City, Avalon, Stone Harbor which have

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LOSE YOURSELF IN EVERY MOMENT.

pristine beaches, beautiful homes and interesting shops, boutiques, galleries and a relaxing atmosphere.

Contrasted with the serenity of small South Jersey beach towns are the Wildwoods where Art Deco dominates and a statue of Bobby Rydell lets you know the vibe. The 2-mile boardwalk at Wildwood is referred to as “two miles of smiles” On VisitNj.org it describes the boardwalk as, “Spectacular amusement piers, world-class roller coasters, interactive water parks, family atmosphere, carnival-style games of chance, shops and irresistible food make the Wildwoods Boardwalk a summer “must” for nearly 9 million visitors every year.”

Although Cape May County is known as a place to go during the summer, the visit Cape May New Jersey website states, “Cape May County is quickly becoming more and more of a year-round resort. Special events bring visitors back all year long, add world class birding and nature based activities, shopping, antiquing, golf, biking and hiking, wineries and great dining to the mix and you have a great spring, fall and winter getaway. Cape May County offers world class birding and nature based activities. It also brings visitors for shopping, antiquing, golf, biking and hiking, wineries and great dining. Cape May itself, with it’s its compelling history and Victorian buildings offers many fall and winter getaways and many tours and events.

For a closer look at Cape May, go to “Our Cape May Glimpse” in the Getaway department on page 118. Websites where you can find events in Cape May County are www.CapeMay.com, www.capemaycountynj.gov. For tours, history and art www.capemaymac.org, A website that keeps you up-to date on events in Cape May is also www.thema soncottage.com (in the Concierge section).

Bob Waite is the editor of Bucks County Magazine.

WHERE TO STAY & WHERE TO PLAY

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 in this issue. It’s very important that both sellers and buyers use a professional real estate agent.

We found agents that are 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.

Frenchtown NJ

The beginning of the Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park is here. The towpath meanders south from Frenchtown for a bit before it hits the canal itself. From here, bicyclists can pedal along the Delaware River all the way to Trenton. Frenchtown is also a great strolling and shopping town, with numerous small charming boutiques. The town’s three big festivals – Wine and Art in May, Bastille Day in July and RiverFest in September – are a cool way to check out all the local offerings. Visit Frenchtown this spring and enjoy shopping and dining along the Delaware River. It’s just across the Uhlerstown - Frenchtown bridge from Bucks County.

Our Cape May Glimpse

Tanya and I loved Cape May and our stay at the wonderfully hospitable Mason Cottage B&B, but we needed more time to get more than just a glimpse of all that the nation’s first seaside resort has to offer

Like in The Family Man starring Nicholas Cage who gets a “glimpse” of what his life would be if he made a different decision at the JFK airport, Tanya and I know that we are only going to get a “glimpse” of all that Cape May has to offer. Every season in Cape May is amazing, yet we are going during the winter to write about spring in Cape May and we only have two days to visit. I tell this to Tanya and she asks, “Bob are you overthinking this trip?” But I looked at the tourist websites, I followed the voluminous lists of what to see and all the things to do in Cape May and wanted more than a glimpse.

We arrive at the Mason Cottage at 3 p.m. and are greeted by Eric, who along with his wife Rochelle is an innkeeper. He has a boyish smile and before we can get in the door he begins to tell us about the

Opposite top, The Mason Cottage with its wraparound veranda on which guests can have breakfast on warm days. Opposite bottom, Bob and Tanya ready for a snack and cup of coffee on the way home from Cape May. Top, the comfortable and very Victorian parlor at the Masson Cottage. Center left, a bedroom in the Warne Suite, which has a jacuzzi and fireplace. Center right, The Cape May Historic Trolley Tour. Bottom, Tanya’s favorite room–the lounge in the Davis Suite, where we spent time sitting by the fire, enjoying each other’s company while reading and watching TV.

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inn. We are shown the keypad that we can use to enter any time and he takes us to the office to register. Eric shows us the parlor and we see that the seating is very comfortable and the sofa seems to say, “Go ahead, take a nap.” In front of the sofa is a glass coffee table and on it is a bowl full of Hersey kisses. Eric tells us to take some to eat in our room.

After checking in we notice two sets of elaborate stairwells. Eric explains, When the building was built in 1869, the original owners decided to make it into two homes, one for them and the other for their newly married son.” Of course since then it became one home with two staircases, each leading to rooms that are now used for guests.

Rochelle introduces herself and takes us to our room. Tanya who, I wouldn’t dare say overreacts to a beautiful room, looks like she is ready to burst. She is holding back as Rochelle shows us the Davis Suite that happens to be one of the rooms with a jacuzzi connected to the bathroom. But what really riles up her intentionally suppressed enthusiasm is the separate lounge room with a gas fireplace, a television, a Victorian styled sofa, two comfortable upholstered chairs, a round cherry wood table between the chairs and the large ottoman.

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Our bedroom is large and there are a queen sized bed, a large double window across from the bed overlooking Columbia Avenue and a window on the side that adds to its bright cheerful appearance. We have the choice of another suite that has a king-sized bed but doesn’t have the separate lounge room and we decline. The bed, tested by me (a certified napper and comfort seeker) makes me want to lie down for a while.

We settle in our room. Tanya takes photos and I go outside to look at the colorful Victorian structure with a wraparound veranda. Columbia Avenue is right in the center of historic district. The Inn is only a block from the boardwalk or rather promenade, which is

Tuesday thru Saturday: 10am-5pm. Other times by appointment.

“Along the Canal”

“Moonlight Shimmer”

paved and replaced the old boardwalk after by a Nor’easter in 1962 tore it up. It is also a short walk to the Washington Street Mall.

“Where should we eat?” I ask Tanya. “Do you want to drive around, browse the internet or maybe take a walk till we find somewhere that we think we will like?” She says as she always does, “Whatever you want.” I decide to ask Eric. He suggests The Cricket Club, which is only a couple of blocks away.

The Cricket Club sits in a restored Victorian building that has a casual atmosphere. We are seated in a room that seems like a porch with slanted exposed beam ceiling and windows along the single row of tables. There are candles on each table and as I look into Tanya’s deep brown eyes that are sparkling in the candlelight I say, “This, my gorgeous one, is a very romantic room.” Then I wink at her and she blushes. She retorts, ‘What have you got in mind handsome?”

The ambience is both soothing and exciting at the same time. The night we are there a singer is singing soft love ballads and we are looking into each other’s eyes enamored by the soft music and candlelight. Breaking our spell is our server, Kelly. She softly approaches the table and is very pleasant. I order a scotch on the rocks and Tanya orders a Mai Tai. We then look at the menu. There are 13 appetizers and we order the Steamed P.E.I. Mussels.

Kelly brings us our drinks. Tanya sips hers and assures me that it is made to perfection. We then order our main course. Tanya orders the Crab Cake Entrée, which consists of crab cakes baked then topped with a house remoulade and served with roasted fingerlings and green beans. I order the Braised Short Rib which is described on the menu as “a red wine braised short rib served with roasted fingerlings and green beans topped with a crispy onion garnish.”

Kelly lets us know that we made good choices.

The food is delicious. My short ribs

melt in my mouth and Tanya’s loves the crabcakes, which are full of crabmeat and cooked to perfection. I have the Crème Brûlée for desert and its crispy crust and tasty custard make me want another. We also meet the general manager, Lauren Banzo, and she comps us our desert. While we eat, chat with the manager and thoroughly enjoy ourselves, we are serenaded with soft ballads, and we each have that first date kind of glow.

It is dark but we decide to walk several blocks to the promenade that is well lighted and in the evening has a special kind of beauty. We see shops that are now closed, Convention Hall, and although we are hoping, we do not see the lighthouse several miles to the south.

We walk back to the Mason Cottage and the streets of Cape May seem magical to a married couple with a first date glow. The Bed & Breakfasts and other beautifully cared for homes make us feel that somehow we have been transported to a Hallmark Movie.

Back at the Mason Cottage we sit in the lounge with the fireplace burning and watch a movie. I fall asleep on the chair and Tanya gently wakes me up when the movie is finished. We go to bed. The bed is perfect. I drift back into sleep with no intermission and Tanya meets the sandman as soon as her head hits the pillow. It is the soundest sleep either of us have gotten in weeks. As Tanya would say, “This bed is the bomb diggity!”

I wake up excited about eating breakfast, Tanya, not so much. She likes to spend her mornings getting ready for the day and she’s not hungry until later. However we both go down to the breakfast area. We sit at one of the smaller tables and there are other guests at the long table. Coffee is out and a server visits our table. Our breakfast is two courses the first being the Breakfast Banana Split, which instead of ice cream uses scooped yogurt but it also has berries and a fruit sauce. It is delicious.

Tanya’s eyes brighten up. We talk to a couple from the Lehigh Valley that are very familiar with Bucks County and have a daughter who lives in Newtown. Our next course is a frittata filled with vegetables. We also have a side meat. I have sausage and Tanya has two slices of bacon. With it is a homemade biscuit. Tanya loves the breakfast and forgets that she is not a breakfast person.

After breakfast we leave the Mason Cottage and take the four and a half mile drive to Cape May Point to see the lighthouse. We understand that from the top of the lighthouse is a staggering view of the Delaware Bay and Atlantic Ocean. Unfortunately, when we get there the lighthouse is closed. Its winter hours are curtailed to being open only on weekends.

The Light House is located at Cape May Point Park and there is ample parking. We take photos of this majestic beacon and then walk to the beach. Walking by the ocean we adjust our gait so not to get wet from the incoming tide. The beauty of the ocean reflecting the icy blue sky makes Tanya say, “Isn’t God amazing!”

Looking down the beach we see an unusual structure that looks in the distance like a giant abandoned bathhouse with vegetation on its roof. As we get closer we realize that it is a giant concrete structure with signs posted on it that say things like, “Keep off,” “Do Not Enter.” I tell Tanya that the government keeps aliens from another galaxy in the building. She says, “Yeah right.”

Puzzled, we leave the area and cut through the park on the nature trails to return to our car. On the trail we meet another tourist who came to Cape May Point Park on a tour bus. We ask her if she knows anything about the concrete structure, and she tells us the story that the tour guide told the group.

It turns out that this is a bunker that was built during the WWII as part of our coastal defense. It was once covered with sod sand and mud to make it look

like a hill hiding its six-foot thick concrete walls. It was created to guard local waters against German U-boat invaders during WWII from 1943 to 1944. We leave and drive back to the Mason Cottage.

Back at the inn, Rochelle shows us some of the rooms that are not currently occupied. There are ten guestrooms at the inn and each is unique. One room, however, really caught Tanya’s attention. The Grand Mason Suite is the largest suite and is meant for longer stays. It has a living room, a beautiful bedroom with floral print wallpaper and a kitchenette with an adjacent dining nook. I could see by my wife’s thoughts and by her facial expression, I know that she is thinking about how wonderful it would be to spend several weeks or even a whole summer here. In my slightly telepathic state, I concur. She smiles at me. I guess she can read minds too.

We are ready to take the short walk to the Washington Street Mall where we will take the Trolley bus and experience the Cape May Historic Trolley Tour and tour the Emlen Physick Estate. The Washington Street Mall is something to see. There are lots of food venues, shops, bookstores, boutiques and galleries. It is buzzing with people going in and out of stores. It is the downtown shopping district and common town square where streets have been turned into walkways. There Victorian building are crisp and clean and we love the ambience. However, we have little time for browsing. At 2 p.m. the tour begins.

Although no longer pulled by cable, the trolley is authentic and looks like it belongs to another time. Anywhere else it would be an anachronism but not in Cape May. We enter the trolley and talk to some women from Maine who are in Cape May for the first time. The trolley tour guide sits facing us and uses a microphone so that she can be heard above the sounds of the engine and traffic. The windows are large and sitting in the back we have a great view from both sides.

The tour takes us on a journey through the history of Cape May as documented by the Victorian buildings we see. Next to San Francisco, Cape May has largest concentration of well-maintained Victorian buildings in the nation. The colors are bright and many of the buildings have intricate gingerbread on overhangs, especially one the homes.

Street by street our tour guide tells us stories about the buildings we pass and the times in which they were built. Some of the things I find interesting are the competitiveness that residents had to look more prosperous than their neighbors. An example is that when indoor plumbing began replacing outhouses, people would add an extra room attached to the side of their homes so that people could see they had a bath and toilet. We saw the original firehouse, the house where abolitionist Harriet Tubman lived while she spent time in Cape May and so many other buildings that have historic interest. We learned about the fire that destroyed a large section of the city and how that changed the architecture on the streets that were affected. The tour guide is funny. She uses humor and interesting anecdotes to educate us on Cape May’s history.

We are dropped off at the Emlen Physick Estate for our next tour. While waiting for the tour to begin, we visit the gift shop that is on the grounds. After looking at books and souvenirs, our tour guide comes and takes us through the house. Cape May M.A.C. (Museums Art Culture) on its website says, “Guided tours of the 1879 Physick House Museum provide an in-depth look at Victorian architecture, detailing how the Physick family and their staff lived, worked and spent their leisure time. The 18-room mansion is an architectural gem designed by famed American architect Frank Furness, one of the best examples of Victorian Stick Style architecture in the country.”

We are there during the winter, so we do not get to see the beautiful gar-

dens and outbuildings. However, we tour the house and learn about this very interesting and sometimes amusing transitional phase of American history. It is a time when having a telephone is more a symbol of wealth and importance than a necessity since so few people have one. Tanya is interested in the kitchen, bathroom and ornate furniture, and Dr. Physick’s mother’s room, which in such a house would be the wife’s room, but Dr. Physick is a lifelong bachelor. I enjoy learning about the social history and the influence that Emlen Physick has on the town. During the tour we see some very unusual appliances, clothing from the period, and we hear some very interesting and amusing stories from our delightful tour guide. (For times and informationabout the Cape May Historic Trolley Tour and the Emlen Physick Estate, visit www.capemaymac.org where you can also find out about many other tours and places of interest in Cape May.)

After the tour we are dropped off at the Washington Street Mall and walk back to the Mason Cottage. After resting for a while, we drive north of Cape May and eat at an Irish pub. Then we return to the Mason Cottage to relax in the parlor and then we go to our suite.

It is the downtown shopping district and common town square where streets have been turned into walkways.

It is morning and I go to breakfast while Tanya is enjoying an extra hour of sleep. Breakfasts at the Mason Cottage are either sweet or savory and they al-

ternate from day to day. I have a sweet breakfast and then go upstairs expecting Tanya to still be in bed, but she surprises me and is packing. I pack too. We are ready to leave but not before saying goodbye to our gracious and hospitable hosts. After saying goodbye we leave, knowing only too well that we need to come again. Like Nicholas Cage in Family Man, we’ve only gotten a glimpse. There are so many more things we can do in Cape May—beaches, shops, tours, restaurants and entertainment. Tanya and I want to know more about America’s first seaside resort and over the years, we will have more than a glimpse.

The Mason Cottage is located at 623-625 Columbia Avenue, Cape May, NJ. To book a room, call 609-884-3358 or visit www.themasoncottage.com v

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

Bucks County’s Town & Country Real Estate

Are Current Trends Affecting Us?

by Sedia Wyatte

Regardless of the state and national trends in home sales, our market is still a burgeoning seller’s market in which we need the help of professional realtors more than ever to buy or sell homes

The real estate market in Bucks County is still a seller’s market.

Prices have gone up in some areas but are basically remaining stable. In January 2024 the median price for a home in Bucks County is $565,000, up 13% year over year while inventory remains low. Now this does not indicate an unstable market because homes sell quickly when listed. This of course indicates that by selling faster the inventory is lower, but factoring the average sales time seems to make the market look very much the same as last year.

Interest rates on mortgages are rising. This means that a home that is mortgaged costs more to prospective buyers. This trend is affecting statewide and nationwide sales. Mortgage interest rates fell to record lows in 2020 and 2021 during the Covid pandemic. Emergency actions by the Federal Reserve helped push mortgage rates below 3% and kept them there. The story changed in 2022. With inflation continues to go up interest rates have increase slightly from a year ago. In Feburay of this year the average 30year fixed mortgage rate in Pennsylvania was 7.39% and 6.74% year fixed rate mortgage. Throughout the year mortgage rates adjust and sometimes on a daily basis and mortgage experts expect the rates to drop in 2024. Your real estate agent can help with locking rate quesitons and fixed, adjustable,conventional, jumbo or government - backed loans and rates. So, what does this all mean for selling or buying a home in Bucks County and surrounding areas? One thing it definitely means is national trends can and probably will have an effect on first time buyers. But the

truth is that historically these rates are still low. The pandemic crash of rates could not hole forever and now with inflation increasing, rates naturally are going up. But are they prohibitive?

Dave Ramsey, budgeting expert and home finance counselor, says “So, what if you are debt-free and do have a full emergency fund? In that case, now is actually a great time to buy a house. Sure, the interest rates and home prices are high, but they’re only going to keep climbing. And because interest rates are high right now, fewer folks are buying—that means you won’t have as much competition when you make offers. Plus, when and if interest rates do eventually go back down (we’re talking years here, by the way, not months), you can always refinance your mortgage.”

Houses are moving fast and so far it is still a seller’s market but that could very reasonably change if interest rates continue to climb and if lots of building takes place, which seems to be on the horizon, simply because a limited inventory makes investment in building a smart move.

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For those selling a home in Bucks County, it is still a very good time to sell. And buying a home is the best alternative to renting. The cost of renting a home is continually rising. Younger families are not getting the same tax advantages as homeowners, and they have no accumulation of equity. This is why statistics from the National Association of Realtors show that first-time buyers made up 33% of all home buyers. And although downsizing has been a buzzword for the last decade, 12% of home buyers purchased a multi-generational home, to take care of aging parents or to provide space for children over the age of 18 who are moving back home with their parents.

The market is changing and it is still complicated for sellers getting the best price and for buyers finding what they need. It is vitally important that sellers and buyers use real estate professionals rather than act as their own agents. The Pennsylvania Realtors Association explains that buyers need a professional realtor because “They understand their local markets and can negotiate on the buyer’s behalf, which is especially beneficial in competitive markets.” As for sellers, “They help navigate the complex home selling process and have the experience to effectively prepare, position and price a home for sale.”

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Nestled within the enchanting Bucks County, Pennsylvania, evokes a profound sense of awe and admiration. Encompassing over 11 acres of meticulously curated land, it bestows upon its inhabitants an unparalleled feeling of seclusion and expansiveness. The entrance, adorned with an extended gated drive, not only imparts an air of exclusivity but also assures a realm of utmost security. Part of the security is an incredible SAFE ROOM!!! Agent has all details! Undisputedly, the pièce de résistance of this estate lies in its commanding vista of the majestic Delaware River, accompanied by a sprawling panorama that extends as far as the eye can behold. These sweeping, panoramic views conspire to create an ambiance of serenity and aesthetic splendor. The principal allure of this haven is further accentuated by the inclusion of a guest house, a space both gracious and commodious, capable of hosting esteemed visitors and offering supplementary living quarters. This versatile addition presents the opportunity to graciously welcome friends and family, or alternatively, to explore the prospects of utilizing it as an elegant rental retreat. Amidst the opulent offerings of this estate, the presence of a sumptuous pool and its accompanying pavilion elevates the sense of opulence, providing a haven of respite during the balmy summer months. Here, one can relish the great outdoors while luxuriating in the privacy and convenience of a personal aquatic oasis. For those with an affinity for automotive excellence, the provision of multiple garages, including one with an integrated lift, stands as nothing short of a reverie realized. This provision furnishes an expanse amply capacious to house and maintain an impressive collection of vehicles, catering to the desires of avid car connoisseurs. Fantastic Views!

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Wedding Celebrations

Holly Hedge Estate Bed & Breakfast

Built in the 1780s and originally part of the William Penn land grant, HollyHedge Estate is situated on 21 bucolic acres just north of downtown New Hope. The estate’s rustic charm has become a premier Bucks County wedding destination.

According to General Manager Tim Luccaro, his family has been committed to preserving the elegance and natural beauty of their 18th-century farm and estate since taking over in 1994. “We are really proud of our historic and environmental stewardship at the estate. We really believe that we are responsible for mitigating the ecological impact of our weddings, and ensuring that the rich history of the property is preserved for future generations,” Luccaro says. His family has refurbished many of the historic buildings, restored the estate’s architectural features, and rejuvenated its land. They have a number of acres of land that were put under cultivation to grow various items that they can use in the preparation of food for weddings and their inn guests. “We are taking farm-to-table and sustainability to a new level. Really striving to be an industry leader in corporate responsibility. The food we can’t grow on site, we try to obtain from local sources,” Luccaro says.

The estate has several areas of interest for brides and grooms to utilize during their weddings. There is a classic fieldstone bank barn, which is popular for wedding ceremonies and cocktail hours. “The Old Barn’s” original construction highlights exposed fieldstone and wood beams with massive vaulted ceil-

ings. Adjacent to it is a classic English garden. On the property there also are two small ornamental ponds, seasonal gardens, wildflower preserves and various historic outbuildings that offer unique backdrops for wedding pictures. A newer pole barn was constructed for receptions in 2002. This space has all of the modern amenities needed for a celebration. The estate’s original manor house has 15 guest rooms. Inn guests are invited to enjoy a full-service breakfast on weekends from Chef Krystal Weaver.

HollyHedge Estate has garnered numerous awards over the years including annual Couple’s Choice Awards from Wedding Wire and The Knot. They were recently inducted into The Knot Hall of Fame. The estate can host up to 200 guests for a wedding. Couples have access to their full-time onsite wedding planners. All of the catering at HollyHedge Estate is done in-house. Executive Chef Jose Calderon and Sous Chef David Fry offer a large menu characterized as Nouveau American cuisine with French, Asian, and Spanish influences. Pastry Chef Janine Harrison does all of the baking on site as well. There are several wedding packages as well as completely customizable options.

You can contact the wedding coordinators at HollyHedge Estate today to reserve your wedding date or schedule a tour by appointment only. The historic venue is located at 6987 Upper York Road in New Hope, PA. Their phone number is 215-8623136. For more information, see them on Facebook or visit www.hollyhedge.com.

Pen Ryn Estate

Pen Ryn Estate is a unique wedding venue located in the heart of Bucks County PA. Our breathtaking venues and ceremony locations provide a picture-perfect setting sure to leave guests impressed. Being located on 100 private acres, with a 2000foot tree-lined driveway opening up to full views of the Delaware River, which can be seen from every room in our venues, Pen Ryn Estate provides the ultimate wedding experience.

By combining the beauty and charm of venues, Pen Ryn Mansion, Belle Voir Manor and our newest venue River’s Edge Garden Pavilion, with the exceptional catering services and impeccable white-glove service, your wedding will leave an exquisitely memorable impression on everyone. As one of the most desirable locations in the Bucks County, it is not surprising that hosts receive glowing accolades from their guests.

Having been built in the 18th century, housing notable families such as the Bickely, Wharton and Drexel Families, the Pen Ryn Estate is surely the place for a wedding. The estate is filled with charm around every corner, yet we have added 21st-century party-necessities to make an unforgettable experience.

A Sample Reception Package includes a variety of amenities that include a Victorian Ballroom accommodating 300 plus seated, 400 plus for cocktail receptions, your exclusive use of the Mansion or Manor or Pavilion and Private Garden Setting, and a Bridal Suite fit for an entire bridal party throughout the reception.

Food is prepared by a culinary team that assures the ultimate in food quality and presentation, your reception includes a cocktail hour filled with host's choice of Hor d'Oeuvres, a selection of two entrees, a combination entree or food stations, your choice of custom decorated wedding cake with artistic designs, champagne toast, and extensive top shelf open bar. The ultimate wedding package to ensure guests are impressed.

In addition, to ensure that every wedding detail is met, we also provide a personal bridal server along with an experienced maître d to guarantee the success of your event. In addition to all the amenities included, we also provide a beautiful indoor and outdoor setting for your ceremony.

Pen Ryn Estate is located at 1601 State Road, Bensalem, PA 19020. To receive a private tour and menu prices, call 215-633-0600. For more information, visit www.penrynestate.com.

THREE

BRIDAL BLISS

100 acre riverfront estate featuring 3 impeccably appointed venues, award winning chefs, and personal event coordinator on staff

The Logan Inn

Elevate your forever with the Colorful Side of Luxury. Logan Inn features modern-day luxury in every single facet of a wedding venue. Opulent design balanced with a warm atmosphere and delicious food results in events that exude style and authenticity. A Logan Inn wedding shares the common thread of all Landmark venues, allowing guests to truly submerge themselves in a setting filled with history and luxurious design, accompanied by an unmatched level of hospitality.

Our ballroom’s unique features—such as reclaimed wood ceilings with a twinkling light chandelier, eight-foot confetti art on the fused glass windows, and the dramatic stone flooring coupled with a cocktail space and whiskey lounge—create a beautiful wedding aesthetic and thoughtful experience.

We strive to mix art, entertainment, hospitality, and community—bringing together travelers and locals. Beyond the 38-room boutique hotel, guests are invited to explore New Hope through the many one-of-a-kind galleries, boutique shops, and restaurants, including our very own Ferry + Main restaurant.

Logan Inn is the definition of downtown chic, located in the heart of New Hope, a lively part of Bucks County. In addition to the ball-

Elevate your forever with this French Country Estate nestled in the hillside of Bucks County, Pennsylvania. Hotel du Village’s natural elegance transforms your wedding into a lavish weekend getaway. This meticulously restored 12-acre estate and boutique hotel is surrounded by lush greenery and gardens, a hidden treasure for any couple wanting an exclusive Château wedding.

room, Logan Inn offers many spaces for iconic events. The Rock Room is an edgy space featuring a 3,000-bottle wine cellar, largescale rock-and-roll art, pool table, and marble checkered floors. The Whiskey Lounge is one of New Hope’s coziest spots with a woodburning fireplace, piano, and a bar stocked with all the top-rated dark spirits. You won’t want to leave, but be sure to end the night lighting up in our cigar lounge.

Established in 1727 and steeped in tradition, the Logan Inn stands as the oldest operating inn in America. After two years of construction, Landmark Hospitality completed an expansion and renovation of the property, transforming it into a boutique hotel experience with curated entertainment for travelers and locals alike. The revitalized inn joins Landmark Hospitality’s diverse portfolio of adaptive restored projects across the tri-state area. Why Landmark you ask? Because Landmark moments deserve a Landmark Venue. Our wedding services are tailored to create a magical day that’s a reflection of your love story.

The Logan Inn is located at 10 W Ferry St, New Hope, PA. For more information, call 908-418-4186, text 831-273-4960 or visit www.landmarkvenues.com.

Hotel Du Village

Hotel du Village has two distinct ballrooms—The Colt Ballroom and The Historic Ballroom—both breathtaking in their own way— that can be used in conjunction with one another for a Château experience or stand-alone, depending on your vision and guest count. The Colt Ballroom is a luxurious French-inspired ballroom with majestic ten-foot ceilings finished with restored hardwood floors and original copper-detailed fireplace. An extensive foyer with private entrance to the Ballroom opens onto a full view of the stream and meticulously landscaped gardens. The Historic Ballroom features elaborate reclaimed wood ceiling and historic glass windows looking out onto the courtyard and riverside. Step outside and you will find manicured gardens, outdoor patio spaces, fountains, and fire pit areas your guests are sure to indulge in.

Our boutique hotel and Stone Cottage features 29 remodeled rooms, modern amenities, tennis courts, fishing pond, and an outdoor pool. Lounge in our cabanas, make s’mores by our fire pits, serve up some tennis, light up in our cigar room, unwind in our game room; take advantage of everything Hotel du Village has to offer.

The property of Hotel du Village was passed between many significant families of Bucks County before Caroline Wood gained rights to it. Morgan Colt was the architect for the building, and the name inspiration for our Colt Ballroom. Frank and Jeanne Cretella of Landmark Hospitality spent summers staying at Hotel du Village with their daughter and had always dreamed of owning property as special as this. In 2013, their dream became reality, and they transformed the estate into a premiere destination for events, weddings, and corporate retreats. Why Landmark you ask? Because Landmark moments deserve a Landmark Venue. Our wedding services are tailored to create a magical day that’s a reflection of your love story.

Hotel Du Village is located at 2535 River Rd, New Hope, PA For more information, call 908-418-4186, text 831-273-4960 or visit www.landmarkvenues.com.

Nestled amidst the serene landscape of a championship golf course, Makefield Highlands Golf Club offers an unparalleled venue for a variety of occasions. With its blend of classic elegance and modern amenities, our clubhouse and rustic stone patio, complete with a bar nestled within a historic farm silo, provide picturesque backdrops for events ranging from formal gatherings to intimate family affairs.

Steeped in history dating back to 1718, Makefield Highlands exudes timeless charm and rustic elegance, making it the quintessential setting for your wedding. From the historic Manor House to the tented stone patio overlooking the 18th green, every corner offers enchanting photo opportunities. Exchange vows amidst the towering pines or by the garden pergola, surrounded by nature's splendor.

Preserving the essence of its agricultural past, the Silo Bar, nestled within the original grain silo, adds a unique touch to ceremonies and receptions alike. With a capacity of up to 200 guests, our venue caters to both intimate gatherings and grand affairs, ensuring your wedding is as magical as you've always dreamed.

Makefield Highlands Golf Club is committed to turning your wedding into an unforgettable experience. Contact us today to begin planning your perfect occasion amidst the breathtaking beauty of Bucks County.

From baby showers to birthday parties, and everything in between, Makefield Highlands is equipped to host a wide array of celebrations. Our seasoned culinary team and professional staff ensure a seamless planning process tailored to your preferences and budget. Whether you envision an intimate dinner or a grand soirée, we'll make your event unforgettable.

Makefield Highlands

Elevate your corporate gatherings at Makefield Highlands. Whether it's a breakfast meeting, seminar, or fundraiser, the venue offers a conducive environment for productivity and networking. There are several golf programs available, providing us with numerous team-building opportunities. Our Top Tracer and Spirit Golf Academy offer customized packages for your

employees and customers. Let us handle the details while you focus on achieving your business objectives. And for a memorable conclusion, unwind with a round of golf on our premier 18-hole course.

Makefield Highlands golf Club is located at 1418 Woodside Rd, Yardley, PA. For more information, call 215 321 7000 or visit www.makefieldhighlandsgolf.com.

The Woolverton Inn

Called by Fodor’s “One of the loveliest settings in the valley… romantic and secluded,” the Woolverton Inn is an ideal country setting for elopements, intimate celebrations, micro-weddings, and larger affairs. This secluded inn near Lambertville and New Hope sits on ten acres of bucolic landscape, surrounded by 300 acres of preserved farmland.

Anchored by the 1792 stone manor house and 1830’s barn, the historic property and landscape at Woolverton Inn is elegant and relaxed, allowing you to feel like you are at your own home in thecountry.

Wedding packages include Elopements (just for two), Intimate Celebrations (up to 20), Micro Weddings (20-50) and Woolverton Classic (up to 200). Guests may reserve some or all the inn’s 14 guest rooms, providing the opportunity to extend your wedding experience before and after the event. Weather permitting, you may have your wedding ceremony on the Inn’s grounds in the beautiful horseshoe garden, with a lovely arbor perfect for an outdoor wedding ceremony. An outdoor cocktail hour can follow before gathering in a stunning platform tent for a catered dinner and dancing.

The Northridge Barn is a new, additional choice for your Woolverton Inn wedding or event. This year-round, indoor venue offers a rustic barn vibe with modern finishes, including large, bright windows and sweeping views of the 10-acre planting fields. The full panel doors retract, connecting outside decks and verandas to

become to the indoor space. Enjoy the refreshing natural country Woolverton air knowing modern heat and air conditioning is available. Beyond the classic design of the manor house, there are additional features unique to Northridge Barn.

The small event space accommodates 60 people inside a completely rebuilt, timber-frame barn with soaring ceilings, intricate hand-carved wood beams and two-story fireplace built from stone native to the property. Patios and verandas overlook the surrounding planting fields and courtyard.

The Main Barn accommodates 60-200 people, with 20+ foot ceilings, huge windows and doors opening to a large deck and patio overlooking the Woolverton cottages, farmland, and courtyard. The Courtyard, accessible from both levels, is perfect for an outdoor cocktail party.

All food will be prepared on site in our new, state of the art catering kitchen by Executive Chef, Lance Knowling.

Bring your wedding party to the Woolverton Inn and enjoy bucolic surroundings, luxuriously appointed guest rooms, and delicious food. See why it is listed in 1000 Places to See Before You Die in the USA and Canada.

The Woolverton Inn is located at 6 Woolverton Rd., Stockton, New Jersey. For more information, call 609-397-0802 or visit www.woolvertoninn.com.

Corset Wedding Dress

Wedding dresses come in all shapes, sizes and designs. The latest fashion style are is corset wedding dresses.This major trend from a style that evolved over the centuries has become the in Vogue for 2024 worldwide.

All the major designers are coming out corset wedding dresses with sleeves, sleeveless, with straps, lace and great style and looks.

There are many benefits including a slimmering effect, a lace-up back for comfort and trendy. So be sure to try on one at your favorite Bidal Shop.

The Inn at Fox Briar Farm

Situated amidst 50 acres with rolling hills and three ponds, this newly opened venue is the childhood home of owner Donna Jamison Cave. Hosting only one wedding a weekend, the scenic property offers a unique experience tucked away in the heart of Bucks County.

Couples have exclusive access to the eight-guest room Inn which also has several rooms on the main floor, perfect for gathering with friends and loved ones over the wedding weekend. Outside, guests can enjoy exploring the manicured grounds, walking a wooded

trail along the main pond, or lounging in a pair of teak chairs overlooking the best views on the farm. The Inn at Fox Briar Farm offers a choice of picturesque outdoor ceremony sites. Indoor ceremonies are perfect any season in the fully air conditioned and heated barn with a stunning grand chandelier and 18th-century fieldstone wall backdrop. Receptions are celebrated in the elegant stone and wood-paneled barn with vaulted ceilings, two balconies, panoramic windows, and an outdoor bluestone cocktail terrace. Call or email for information on booking and availability!

Embellishments

Wedding & Engagement Rings—Custom & Stock

Michael’s Jewelers is Bucks County’s premier destination for all your bridal needs.Their experienced staff will make this an easy and enjoyable experience. For engagement rings and wedding bands they have the area’s largest selection with top brands like Coast, Sylvie, Noam Carver, and Artcarved Bridal.

All their engagement rings are custom made. You get to hand select your center stone in either natural or lab grown certified diamonds. Michael’s builds the ring around your center stone so that there are no compromises, and you get a one-of-a-kind ring.

If you have a specific design in mind or do not see the exact setting that you are looking for, Michael’s Jewelers can create the perfect ring with their custom design.

Michael’s uses state of the art CAD (computer aided design) software so you can see exactly how the ring is going to look from all angles. Once the CAD is approved, they can always have a wax mold sent in to view so you can see the ring in person.

If you are looking for a wedding band now is the perfect time with Michael’s Jewelers’ annual wedding band sale from April 1st through April 29th.Take 25 % off all in stock wedding bands including custom design. We carry the area’s largest selection of men’s and ladies wedding bands.

For 48 years

Michael’s Jewelers has been helping couples create the perfect rings.You are welcome you to read the reviews to see why we have been voted Best of Bucks:

Top right, Sylvie diamond rings and below are CAD (computer aided design) software so you can see exactly how the ring is going to look from all angles.

Jewelry Store, and Best place to buy rings. Interest free financing is available.

Michael’s Jewelers has two locations to serve you in Yardley and Fairless Hills: 1619 Big Oak Rd, Yardley, PA; 215-369-1700 & 445 S Oxford Valley Rd, Fairless Hills, PA; 215-547-5155. For more information, visit www.jewelrybymj.com.

Nestled in the heart of picturesque Lancaster County, our full-service wedding venue and hotel invites you to experience a celebration of unmatched sophistication and charm.

Indulge in a world of opulence as you step into our enchanting venue, where every detail exudes luxury. From the grand ballroom adorned with exquisite chandeliers to the lush gardens that provide a stunning backdrop for your special day, our venue offers a setting unlike any other in the region.

Immerse yourself in the tranquility of our elegant hotel accommodations, where refined comfort awaits you at every turn. Each room is meticulously designed to provide a haven of relaxation, featuring plush furnishings and premium amenities.

Let our experienced team of wedding specialists guide you through every step of the planning process, ensuring that your celebration is nothing short of perfection. From customizing your menu with gourmet cuisine crafted by our award-winning chefs to coordinating every aspect of your event with precision and care, we are dedicated to bringing your vision to life in the most spectacular way imaginable.

The Inn at Leola Village

Enhance the beauty of your wedding weekend with the convenience of our onsite florist, dedicated to bringing your floral visions to life with unparalleled expertise and creativity. Our talented floral designer will work closely with you to curate stunning arrangements that perfectly complement your chosen aesthetic. Whether you prefer classic elegance, rustic charm, or modern sophistication, every detail will be meticulously crafted to exceed your expectations.

Whether you envision an intimate gathering or a lavish affair, our versatile venue can accommodate weddings of all sizes and styles. Exchange vows surrounded by loved ones in our enchanting garden ceremony space, then dance the night away in our stunning ballroom, where soaring ceilings and impeccable décor create an atmosphere of pure enchantment.

Elevate your wedding experience with our exclusive amenities, including luxurious bridal suites, personalized concierge services, and a range of recreational activities from relaxing spa treatments to exploring the rich history and culture of Lancaster County.

Extend your celebration beyond the ceremony with a weekend filled with unforgettable moments. Our venue offers the perfect setting for every aspect of your wedding festivities, from the intimate rehearsal dinner to the lively after party and everything in between.

Join us at our distinctive venue and hotel in Lancaster County, where luxury, elegance, and unparalleled service converge to create memories that will last a lifetime. Contact us today to begin planning the wedding of your dreams. Stunning.

The Inn at Leola Village is located at 38 Deborah Drive, Leola, PA 17540. For more information, call 717-656-7002 or visit www.TheInnatLeolaVillage.com.

Destination Shopping Experience Embellishments

Henning’s Market is a 6th generation, family-owned and operated, independent retailer located in Harleysville, Pa. Since opening their doors in 1889, Henning’s has evolved into an upscale, gourmet market that focuses on providing the highest quality products for their community. Henning’s Market has over 57,000 square feet that offers beautiful ambiance with natural and organic products integrated throughout the store. Henning’s also features various specialty sections of gluten free products, raw foods, bulk foods, vitamins, supplements, & beauty care.

Henning’s offers ready to bake meals in our meat & seafood departments, as well as heat ‘n serve meals in our Henning’s in a Hurry Section. Henning’s Market offers monthly Specialty Cheese classes. Henning’s makes available 26 sale ads per year and participates in community marketing events that support their vendors and community shoppers.

With seating available for over 150 people, including The Terrace (second-level seating overlooking the entire market), their Market Buffet offers a vast array of food choices, all prepared and cooked in-house by Henning’s experienced team of chefs. From their homemade, scratch Bakery to their full-service Coffee House that serves organic, fair-trade coffee, custom smoothies and much more—Henning’s Market is a destination shopping experience. It is open every day from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Henning’s Market is located at 290 Main Street, Harleysville, PA. For more information, call 215-256-9533 or visit www.henningsmarket.com.

Panna Gelateria & Bakery

Chefs and owners Sally and Jemil Gadea opened Panna Gelateria & Bakery in Yardley Borough in July 2022. Pastries served at Panna are baked fresh daily and include their signature Almond Pound Cake, cookies and select gluten free pastries as well as layer cakes and Tiramisu. Espresso beverages are also offered and use locally roasted beans from One Up One Down Roasters to pair with their treats. While their success has been the result of years of experience and hard work, the couple credit the local community for the support and enthusiasm given to Panna since its opening.

Owners Sally and Jemil can be found at Panna daily, making their gelato entirely from scratch or chatting with locals that have come to make Panna their weekly, sometimes daily break from busy lives. Locals and visitors alike enjoy gelati and sorbetti presented in seasonal and creative flavors such as Strawberry Rhubarb, Rose Ricotta, Stracciatella, and Amalfi Lemon. The flavors continuously rotate, keeping customers curious to see what’s next. Panna’s imported Italian gelato cart allows them to take their gelato out of the shop and into special events. Bookings include a selection of tiers with up to 4 flavor selections and provide gelato for up to 350 guests. Customers may choose from a menu of flavors or customize their selections.

Panna Gelateria & Bakery is located at 25 S. Main Street,Yardley, PA. For more information contact them at 215-369-9900 or visit them online at www.pannagelateria.com.

Embellishments

Wedding Cakes

Wedding Cakes

McCaffrey’s bakeries can make just about any cake you deisre. If you see something in a magazine or eslewhere, just take a picture of it with your cell phone and bring it in. Trends are away from the traditional buttercream cakes and toward cakes with fondant molds and inedible decorations like rhinestones and jewels. A dedicated staff of bakers and decorators in the McCaffrey’s stores produce high quality custom baked goods for all occasions. McCaffrey’ supermarkets are located in Yardley, PA; 215-493-9619, Newtown, PA; 215-579-1310, New Hope, PA; 267-741-8001, Simply Fresh in Doylestown, PA; 215-3481000, Princeton, NJ; 609-683-1600 and West Windsor, NJ; 609-7993555 or visit www.mccaffreys.com.

Curating Events That Become Vivid

Eggsotic

Events is a family run and operated, full-service event design, production, and lighting company based in Central New Jersey. They define the event concept through lighting, decor, props, rentals, installations, personalized art and graphic elements, as well as many other custom productions.

What they offer is beyond rentals, it is over 20 years of expertise, 50 years of creative expression, and a meticulous, boutique approach to event design, event production and the creative arts. People are driven less these days by the pursuit of materialistic objects and instead by the need and necessity of more meaningful experiences. The passage of time in our lives is marked by significant events. Our passion is in curating events that become vivid memories of moments well-lived.

TC Cuthbertson has come up with a novel solution to help brides plan a wedding. It is an online wedding concierge service that takes the anxiety out of the overwhelming process of coordinating this very special event. TC says, “Our concierge service is an online wedding coordinating and booking platform. Brides can come to the EventRoostr website and book wedding packages that include vendors that the bride needs, such as caterers, DJs, photography services and florists, which takes the randomness out of planning her wedding.

The process is simple and easy. TC explains, “The bride would go to EventRoostr.com and see the venue and experience packages that she wants, and she would procure those services with a 10 percent deposit on the platform, so it is an e-commerce platform with payment plans to make affording wedding expenses more comfortable.

The bride’s investment is protected. TC says, “Every single event that is booked through our platform are 100 percent insured. All of the vendors, even down to the wedding itself is insured. In other words, she can get complete insurance coverage for every aspect of her wedding.”

The bride also has lots of options and there are different varieties of experiences that a bride can choose. “For example, maybe a bride already has the DJ but needs décor and photography, she can select a specific package that only includes décor and photography and once she has that package, she puts a deposit on the platform, and she has photography and décor locked in.”

•Intimate Affairs

•Corporate and Social Events

• Weddings

Lisa

personally ensures the success of your catered event from first time meeting to execution of the party. We care about all our clients like they are family, and we personalize and design each event to make sure it is perfect for you and your guests.

fancyfig@icloud.com | fancyfig.wixsite/fancyfig

EventRoostr takes the hassle out of event planning. The bride has more buying power and can compare vendor prices. Booking vendors is enhanced by the process being completely organized, having an integrated billing process and much less legwork. Also, she can earn rewards and cash vouchers online to use towards booking vendors directly from the platform.

There is no fee for using the plat-

form, only for booking a service through the platform, and payment plans are available. The full bridal concierge service will be launched in the summer of 2022, but the platform can be used now. Just go www.EventRoostr.com, and click on Book An Event, then fill out the form and an event coordinator will reach out to you, making sure the vendors on file are satisfying all your requests.

Brymer is the owner and creative director behind The Fancy Fig. Lisa

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!

Family, Friends & Hops

A barn party, two friends, their families, some homemade beer and a business plan all coalesced to produce some of the tastiest craft beer in Bucks County at Warwick Farm Brewing in Jamison.

Not many birthday presents are the genesis of a blossoming business. But that’s exactly how Warwick Farm Brewing in Jamison began. It was at Tim Tabor’s 30th birthday party. And though Tim received great gifts, it was the one from his friend Ryan Seiz that ignited his passion in learning the art of craft beer. For his present, Ryan had brought some of his homemade brew. Ryan and his dad, Scott Seiz, had been brewing beer for some time—and, according to family and friends—with more than their share of successes.

The year was 2016. The beer Ryan had brought was an IPA. “It was a clean and crisp brewski that my family and friends loved,” Tim says. Like a providential perfect storm, all the ingredients were there to spark the idea of a brewery, he says. “The delicious beer, barn party and most excellent vibes for starting a brewery.”

It wasn’t long after that party that the two friends started brewing beer together. And it wasn’t long after that that Ryan’s dad, Scott, and Tim’s dad, Tom, (good friends since childhood) worked together on a business plan for Warwick Farm Brewing with their respective sons. The year now was 2017. Again, it was a providential coming together. This time of the two families and their passions.

Tom and Tim Tabor are passionate about Bucks County’s farming legacy and to preserving its farm land. The Seizes, Scott and Ryan, are equally passionate about home brewing beer. Their combined passions produce some of the tastiest craft beers in Bucks County and is the first microbrewery and farm brewery in Warwick Township.

A resident of Warwick for more than 30 years, Tom, in 2017, bought the historic farm on Almshouse Road, steering its renovation and preservation, including of its 1921 Victorian farm-

Photo: Paul Wesley

house where Tim and his family live. The combined plan and vision of the two families for the farm was to grow their own hops as well as source local ingredients to make their beer.

Already on the property was a 1,200 square-foot construction equipped with refrigeration. To that the Tabors and Seizes added a 7 BBL brewing system and 15 fermenters. (One BBL equals 13 gallons.) And began growing hops.

By 2021 they had a roster of beers to offer to the public. Sitting on 22-acres of beautiful Bucks farmland, it seemed natural to open a Biergarten that spring. (This spring, says Tim, look for the Biergarten to reopen as soon as the warm weather breaks.) So popular had their beers become, specializing in seasonal and limited brews, by February of 2022, they added a 5,000 square-foot Tasting Room to the original construction.

With its rich Bucks County soil, they grow four or more varietals of hops (including Cascade, Chinook, Centennial and Comet). This allows them to offer a limited run of a wet hop IPA (India Pale Ale). (The name India Pale Ale dates back to the height of the British Empire when brewers, in preparation for the voyage to India, added hops to their brews to help preserve the beers. Today, IPA beers made by American craft brewers are favored over European IPAs by both American beer drinkers and beer experts alike because they tend to have more essential oils and are more floral flavor-forward as well as a heady hit of a crisp bitterness.)

Traditionally IPAs are made with more hops to give it a stronger and more distinct flavor than a regular ale or lager. Like farm-fresh produce, for their IPAs, Warwick Farm Brewing freshly picks their hops wet, when full of moisture, and quickly uses them to make their IPAs as lively and full of hop resins possible and therefore more flavorful and appealing to the palate.

But IPAs aren’t the only style of beer they brew. Warwick Farm Brewery also prides itself in offering an ever-changing

variety of lagers, pilsners, ales, stouts and shandies. (A shandy is a beer cocktail usually made of a 50/50 brew of beer and a citrusy lemon/lime soda.) These are especially popular in the spring and summer, Ryan says, such as their Margarita Shandy.

Ryan, along with Jay Trauger, are Warwick’s brew masters. They like to push their beers’ flavor palate, such as with their Bordello, a Mexican-style lager with lime, and Umbra, a summer IPA. Incorporating local fruit and herbs also are high on Ryan’s and Jay’s lists when creating recipes, such as the one they had created in conjunction with Visit Bucks County for one of its Bucks County Ale Trails. Their Hills of Hops & Haze, an ABV 6.5 beer, was heavily dry-hopped with Simcoe, Mosaic and Experimental Hop 586 and “bursting with passionfruit, mango, guava and ripe blueberry flavor.”

Some of their favorite local ingredients come from Hollow House Farms in Buckingham. For special limited brews, they may ratchet the flavor envelope up several notches with daring ingredients. For example, one of their recent brews, Neapolitan Ice Cream Stout, a milk stout made with strawberry, chocolate and vanilla, took its inspiration from OwowCow Creamery’s Neapolitan ice cream. Creating the recipes, Ryan says, is the fun part. Coming up with the beer names is tougher. For names, he says, it’s a group effort. A quick perusal of their beers’ names, however, yields an equally creative feat.

On any given week, you’ll find 20-24 beers on tap in their Tasting Room. For a complete listing of what’s presently on tap, check their website, www.warwickfarmbrewing.com. A few of their limited brews are also available for sale in bottles; most others are sold in cans or personal kegs. They prefer to sell their beers in cans, Ryan says, because cans preserves the flavor better than in bottles.

At home, when pouring a beer into a glass, Ryan advises, tilt the glass at a 45degree angle to about mid-point and pour,

then finish pouring with the glass upright to get a 1/2 to 1&1/2-inch foam or head. The head doesn’t allow carbonation to escape from the beer, while keeping the rich aroma of the beer and the initial flavor of its first sip.

New to beer? Warwick Farm Brewing has you covered. Ryan suggests for beer newbies to start with their Warwick Wit or Lemony Shandy. “Both styles are very approachable.” For those who like to imbibe in brews but are new to Warwick Farm Brewing, start off with their Hazy IPAs and Lagers. “So popular, close to half the beers we produce are Hazy IPAs,” he says

Serious seasoned beer lovers equally won’t be disappointed. Says Ryan, “We have a staff that can point you in the right direction depending on what beer you like. Our most popular beer is our DDH Citra Sensation.” It gives a smooth and tropical flavor that highlights one of Warwick’s favorite’s hops.

For food, Warwick offers a roster of their favorite Food Trucks—as well as those popular with local foodies—such as Holy Q Smokehouse, Humpty’s Dumplings, Rooster & Chick, Kono Pizza Bucks Co. and Wrap N Roll. “My good buddy and part-time employee Tom Smithern runs our Food Truck Schedule,” Tim says. “We have great relationships with some awesome local vendors and like to keep a good variety and mix it up.” Check Warwick’s website for food truck schedules.

Since opening three years ago, Warwick Farm Brewing has won multiple PA State Beer Awards, Tim says, “including for Best Beer Garden in Pennsylvania and recognition for best beers we’ve brewed.”

Warwick Farm Brewing is located at 800 Almshouse Road, Jamison, 18929; 215.792-7599; www.warwickfarmbrewing.com. Closed Mon & Tues. Open Wed., Thurs., Fri. and Sat, 12-9 p.m., and Sun 12-7 p.m.v Diana Cercone is an

Restaurants with Taste / Frank D.Quattrone

Dharma Bums

You enter the restaurant’s cellar bar from a barrel door resembling a Hobbit Hole from Lord of the Rings. Next to the door is a “sculpted” marker of four stones, each announcing the experi-

The Black Cat Motorcycle Club once gathered here. Social revolutionary Abbie Hoffman held his infamous Dump the Pump rallies within these walls. Steven Trachtenberg tells me some of his regular guests frequented the premises in those

stored mid-century communal space upstairs from Thursday through Saturday nights.

Every other Sunday from 4 to 6 p.m. there’s a Drum Circle upstairs, where maple slats in the spacious ’50s-era Noll and Herman Miller-designed room create acoustic magic or a sound bath. At other times, you’ll find yoga, pottery, or other classes or workshops in progress.

ence you’ll find inside—ENLIGHTENMENT, LIVE ENTERTAINMENT, SPIRIT, FOOD—topped by a “beer bottle” bearing the name “Dharma Bums.”

Yep, that’s the name of a novel penned by counterculture hero Jack Kerouac in the late ’50s. Detailing the duality of the author’s life and experience—the great outdoors vs. the jazz clubs of the city, the juxtaposition of Buddhism and Western thought—Dharma Bums inspired coowners Steven and Fiona Trachtenberg to open their so-called “outlet for creativity” last July.

good old bad old days in the ’60s when the place was called Jack’s Bar and later Apple-Jacks.

Once inside, you’ll hear the lively chatter of patrons actually talking with each other. There are no TVs at Dharma Bums. Cell phone reception is poor, at best. But there’s never a lack of something to engage mind, body, or spirit. Each Wednesday evening from 7 to 10, the Dbums’ Hootenanny invites musicians, comics, and spoken word artists to partner up with the open mic. Expect to hear professional live music, either at the cellar bar or in the re-

Fiona, born in Scotland and raised in Hong Kong, has an M.A. in ceramics and often teaches here. You’ll often find Steven, a graduate of U. of P. who does all the bookings, engaged in conversation with genial General Manager Mark Mooradian or patrons at the finely detailed tables or ’70s-era bar.

Steven and Fiona are longtime vegetarians, and this is what you’ll find on the menu—“vegetarian bar fare with an Asian flair”—another nod to the junction of West and East. He cited Naan Grilled Cheese with cheddar, American, and paneer cheeses, a popular American sandwich with a decidedly Indian twist. And the very Italian cannoli, a vegan “cheesecake” dessert filled with cherry and caramel, served in a wonton! Enough to turn anyone’s head

Photos: Paul Wesley

Zad Albasha

Where does one begin describing a restaurant that serves, and satisfies, so many desires? For those who enjoy sharing flavored tobacco from a communal hookah, there’s an intimate hookah lounge on the striking ground floor, furnished with all manner of burnished coffee urns, pipes, and trays, exotic robes and Turkish carpets.

For those craving a Casablanca-era night club, it’s here for your nocturnal pleasure. For those who savor the snapping cymbals and sensual undulations of a comely belly-dancer, you’ll also find it here, on weekends, when the decibel level is at its height.

tant presence. And in the subtle, complex Arabic language, “zad” has many meanings, including the substance, the food, the feast. Putting it all together, Zad Albasha is a place where you’ll be treated to a feast fit for welcome, honored guests.

Annes’ inspired menu. The three cold appetizers, served in neat rectangular trays with warm pita for dipping, included the familiar Middle Eastern staple, Hummus, along with a fine Mouhammara, a spicy Syrian dish blending roasted red peppers

In the more modest street-level café, woven mini-flags of several Middle Eastern nations adorn the walls and a wraparound bar serves up fresh juice and soft drinks. At Zad Albasha Mediterranean Grill, you bring your own wine or brew and let the accomplished kitchen do the rest.

The name of the restaurant is a treat in itself. According to proprietor Ahmed Shaat, a convivial man with a refreshing sense of humor, “basha” is the red hat worn by a leader, a big man, a pasha, an impor-

The evening of our visit, a table circled by six hearty Russian-American friends celebrating a birthday was roaring with laughter and good-natured chatter. Adding to the camaraderie was Ahmed Shaat himself, who says he loves mixing it up with his guests, sharing bon mots and recommending some of the restaurant’s finest dishes. On that score, there is plenty to choose from.

Co-owner Thoraya Altamari, Ahmed’s Jordanian-raised wife, soon came by to recommend the restaurant’s Mezze Trio— an excellent introduction to Algerian Chef

and walnuts with a pomegranate glaze, and our surprise favorite, Copponata, the chef’s amazing take on a great international dish, consisting of stewed eggplant, olives, and capers in tomato sauce, brushed with pomegranate syrup.

We were tempted to try the Large Mezze, your choice of three cold and three hot appetizers, the latter of which included Sambousek, a Lebanese crispy puff pastry with your choice of seasoned ground beef, cheese, or spinach; Arancini, a Sicilian staple of mozzarella-stuffed rice balls served over tomato sauce; and two pieces of Fried

Dharna Bums

and taste buds, no?

In the midst of my interview with Steven and Fiona, Chef Justin McClain, who studied at Johnson & Wales, came by to chat. Naturally, we asked if he too was vegetarian. He told us no, that he had been a private chef with his own business for the past decade. He said he quickly became inspired by the menu that had evolved organically over the restaurant’s first three months.

“I was more than eager to try,” he said. “I loved Steven and Fiona’s concept. But I was really sold when I saw the smiles on the faces of our guests, many of whom normally eat meat.” It’s clear that patrons may be attracted to the Dharma Bums’ vibe. But ultimately, they come to realize what Fiona insists—that “food is who we are.”

Our heads spinning pleasantly from our talk with the staff, the faint rat-a-tat-tat of the drum circle upstairs, and the allure of the small bites, salads, and big bites pass-

Zad Albasha

Kibbeh, another Lebanese-Syrian specialty of savory crispy cracked wheat stuffed with ground meat. Some treats for a later visit!

As we were dining and the table of birthday celebrants was filling the room with raucous good cheer, the music changed from pleasantly melodic to rousing. Before our eyes appeared the lovely Meesha, a Lebanese-born belly dancer who drew the birthday boys up from their seats to join her in jovial gyrations. Ahmed, who was born in Riyadh, the Saudi-Arabian capital, could be seen laughing with his delighted guests, as Thoraya clapped along with the music.

Meesha, whose family owned a Lebanese restaurant, dances at Zad Albasha any time the restaurant hosts a special party. After the dancing ended, Mona, our gracious server, brought us our entrée, Seafood Tagine, an evening special. And special it was—a generous bowl of mussels,

ing by, we settled in for our feast. It began with Cauliflower Tacos, a tasty vegan “big bite” spiced with daikon slaw and sriracha aioli, served gluten-free in a lettuce wrap. Accompanying our tacos was a Sweet ’n’ Sour Quinoa Salad, another vegan dish distinguished by a hearty blend of Brussels sprouts, toasted peanuts, and daikon radish seasoned with Bragg’s Liquid Aminos, a non-GMO soy-like sesame sauce.

Our main course? Inspired takes on popular sandwiches: A scrumptious Seitan Cheese “Steak” fashioned from shiitake mushrooms, caramelized onions, and “wiz,” served on naan bread (vegan without the “wiz”); and a Reuben Seitanwich on rye—filled with sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, Japanese mustard, and (of course) seitan, that wheat-based, protein-rich kitchen chameleon that neatly replicates meat. Amazing, both!

Our dessert was a lovely Fuji Pear Tart served with crème anglaise and “fresh whip.” And my accompanying cocktail was an Elderberry Yuzu Mojito, a blend of

white rum, Bluestem Botanicals Elderberry Elixir, mint, and yuzu (a sour Japanese citrus fruit)—another Western favorite kissed by the East.

The menu at Dharma Bums changes seasonally. Steven says that weekend brunches, including house-roasted coffee, are coming this Spring. And the popular courtyard, where kids (and well-behaved dogs) are more than welcome to enjoy the games and ambience under Japanese maple and Asian pear trees by an outdoor fireplace, will soon be jumping.

You must come. You’ll be drawn by the enlightenment, live entertainment, and spirit; but you’ll stay for the food.

Dharma Bums is located at 4935 River Road, New Hope, PA; 215-663-2867; www.dbums.com. Vegetarian. Hours: Monday & Tuesday: closed. Wednesday & Thursday, 4–10 p.m. Friday & Saturday, 4 p.m.–midnight. Sunday, 12–10 p.m. No reservations taken; first-come, first-served. Check website for live entertainment, classes, and workshops. Takeout available.

clams, scallops, shrimp, calamari, and octopus swimming in a light marinara pool of red peppers, onions, and plum tomatoes, scented with bay leaves and garlic. Simply scrumptious—even the following evening, as we could not finish the dish that night.

Ahmed said that his guests’ favorite entrée is the Zad Albasha Mix Grill, consisting of one shish taouk (skewered grilled cubes of chicken), one grilled kofta (a wellseasoned ground beef meatball), and two lamb chops over rice, complemented by grilled vegetables, hummus, and salad (per person!). Although we had no room for dessert, we could have ordered Baklava or Kunafah, a spun pastry soaked in a sweet, sugar-based syrup called attar, layered with cheese, clotted cream, pistachio, or nuts.

In the presence of the beaming Ahmed, in a voice that resonated throughout the restaurant, Igor Fedorov, one of the birthday celebrants, told us, “I eat out a lot. And everything here is prepared perfect, includ-

ing the [Yemeni] coffee and tea.”

Before we left, Mona treated us to a tour of the exotic entertainment center below, site of the hookah lounge, the sports bar, private dining rooms, and the night club, where Meesha was dancing on a stage with a number of happy patrons. Ahmed, who also works in construction with several of his brothers (he is one of fourteen siblings!) assured us that “guests don’t want to leave because our hospitality is what they enjoy the most.”

I can easily second the emotion.

Zad Albasha is located at 29 South Main Street, Doylestown, PA; 215-867-8899; www.zadalbashamediterraneangrill.com. Open Tuesday–Thursday, 11 a.m. to midnight; Friday & Saturday, 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.; & Sunday, 12 to 12. Closed Monday. Serves Halal foods. BYOB. Reservations required! Available for catering, private parties. DJ & belly dancers, weekends.

Dining Out Guide

NON SOLO PASTA

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

SEAFOOD - CHOPS - SPIRITS

CARRY OUT WINE & BEER

215.736.0750 nonsolopasta.restaurant

BUCKS COUNTY

Alessio’s Seafood Grille

827 Easton Road, Warrington, PA

215-483-8500

www.alessioseafoodgrille.com

Alessio’s Seafood Grille serves fresh, flavorful Italian seafood dishes prepared with the finest ingredients from around the world. Everything is made by hand in our restaurant everyday, from delicious appetizers and favorably sauces to our salad dressings and homemade Italian seafood specialties. Serving seafood, Italian dishes and pizza.

Baci Ristorante

Route 202 & 413, Buckingham, PA

215-794-7784

www.baciristorante.com.

A charming Bucks County fieldstone restaurant that offers fireside and balcony

dining in the upstairs restaurant. Enjoy the Heart of the Oak Pub offering both the Pub menu and Baci’s menu. Serves Northern Italian cuisine including pasta, seafood, chicken, chops, veal and steak entrees. Facilities for weddings and private parties up to 120. Extensive wine list and imported beers on tap in the Oak Pub. Online menus. Enjoy the piano bar on Friday and Saturday evenings. Open 7 days a week for lunch and dinner. Menus online.Reservations accepted. Accepts major credit cards.

Charcoal BYOB

11 South Delaware Ave. Yardley, PA

215-493-6394

www.charcoalbyob.com

A neighborhood gem, since 1995, Charcoal has been crafting seasonal meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner. At Charcoal we experiment with modern culinary

techniques while incorporating the classics.The room is casual and comfortable, entertaining both young families and long time regulars. In the evening, the music changes, candles are set out on the tables, and many diners show up with some of their favorite bottles of wine. Handmade pastas, the freshest seafood, Painted Hills beef, Griggstown Farm Chickens fried to order, and house made bread and desserts make any evening feel special. Charcoal BYOB is a family restaurant, with a bit of a modern twist.

Ferndale Inn, 551 Churchill Road (Route 611), Ferndale, PA 18921; 610-847-2662;

www.theferndaleinn.com.

Casual fine dining with Chef Karen Baron’ signature dishes that include jumbo lump crab au gratin, soft shell

crabs, duck with green peppercornbrandy cream, angel hair pasta with lobster, and creme brulee. Full bar. Online menus. Open for dinner Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday 5–9 p.m.; Sunday 4–8 p.m. closed Tuesdays. Reservations accepted. Accepts Visa, MC, and American Express.

Lambertville Station Restaurant and Inn, 11 Bridge St., Lambertville, NJ

609-397-8300;

www.lambertvillestation.com.

Dine inside a restored 19th-century train station or al fresco on the terrace with breathtaking views of rolling hills and the Delaware River just a few feet away. The Inn boasts a stately elegant 46 contemporary rooms or suites with sophisticated furnishings and stunning views. Host your private event in one of the many event

spaces, from intimate corporate functions to the elegant riverfront wedding of your dreams. Wine cellar with 50 + boutique wines. Bar and restaurant over seasonal Al Fresco dining. Featuring short ribs, fish & chips, crab cakes, Steak, Lancaster chicken, fish tacos, Filet Mignon, and Salmon. A favorite after-work destination, enjoy casual dining and hand-crafted cocktails, beer and wine in The Pub. Reservations suggested. All credit cards accepted.

McCoole’s at the Historic

Red Lion Inn,

c 1750, corner of Main & Broad Quakertown, PA; 215-538-1776

www.mccoolesredlioninn.com

Upscale atmosphere for the working person’s wallet, featuring humanly raised, antibiotic and growth hormone free foods with cooperation of local farms. The best

of live entertainment on weekends and Al fresco dining on the patio in season. Online and phone reservations available and suggested for weekend dining.

Non Solo Pasta Ristorante

900 West Trenton Ave.

Morrisville, PA; 215-736-0750

www.nonsolopasta.restaurant

Non Solo Pasta features creative Southern Italian cuisine with the delicate flavors of an authentic Italian kitchen. Our menu includes modern and original interpretations of handmade pastas, seafood, veal and other traditional dishes that maximize the flavors of seasonal fresh ingredients. Carry Out Premium Wine and Beer available.

Pineville Tavern

1098 Durham Road, Pineville, PA

215-598-3890

Dining Out Guide

Alessio’s Seafood Grille

An Italian Touch

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.

Springtown Inn

3248 Main Street, Springtonw, PA 18981

610-346-7262

www.springtowninn.com

We offer a large selection of delicious, freshly made to order entrees and desserts at reasonable prices. Our friendly, professional staff provides exceptional customer service. Specialities include Prime Rib, Steak,Seafood and Chickenn. Tavern Menu and our famous Strawberry Shortcake.

Tonys Place

1297 Greeley Ave, Ivyland, PA

215-675-7275

www.tonysplaceivyland.com

Prepared by a world class culinary staff, the menu at Tony’s Place features a full array of small plates, sandwiches, salads, and entrees that are sure to delight. Our chefs have developed a menu that adapts to the seasons with locally sourced ingredients to satisfy your taste buds. Cocktail bar and entertainment.

Vela, 140 Veterans Ln,

| captnchuckysyardley.com

Doylestown, PA

215-230-8352

www.veladoylestown.com

Vela is named for our location on Veterans Lane in Doylestown. We opened our doors in 2018, excited to join the community at the heart of Bucks County.We believe that the best experiences are shared with friends and family enjoying food and drink with warm hospitality. From fresh, house-made pastas to craft cocktails featuring local spirits, we offer a taste of Doylestown that values traditions, both new and old.

Washington Crossing Inn

1295 General Washington Memorial Blvd., Washington Crossing, PA

215-493-3634

www.washingtoncrossinginn.com.

The Washington Crossing Inn adjoins the spot where George Washington and his troops assembled before crossing the Delaware River on Christmas Eve night in 1776. Executive Chef Estaurdo Gonzalez serves up fresh salads, appetizers, and entrees such as Filet Mignon, Apricot Pork Chops, Chicken Schnitzel, Homemade Gnocchi Primavera, Rigatoni Alla Vodka, Grilled Salmon, Crabcakes, and Sesame Tuna. Bar and cocktails.

Country Inn Serving Fine & Casual Fare

We invite you to sample freshly prepared seasonal specials…

Come in and relax in our comfortable dining rooms featuring unique pieces of original art

Closed on Mon. & Tues.

Reservations Appreciated 610-847-2662

Rt. 611 and Churchill Road, Ferndale, PA 15 miles N. of Doylestown on Rt. 611 www.theferndaleinn.com

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.

Yardley Inn

214-493-3800; www.yardleyinn.com.

Founded in 1832, The Yardley Inn originally went by the name of The White Swan. The Inn is on the Delaware River and offers American Cuisine. A well-planned menu by Executive Chef Robert McNally includes Crab Ravioli, NY Strip Steak, Grass Fed Filet Mignon, Crabcakes, Lemon

Chicken, Faroe Island Salmon, salads, and sandwiches. Bar and cocktails. Open for lunch and dinner Monday through Thursday 11:30a.m. – 8 p.m. Reservations suggested. All major credit cards accepted.

Art continued from 67

He’s been a consistent award winner at the Salmagundi Club, twice winning the coveted Arthur T. Hill Memorial Award and the Alden Bryan Memorial Award for Traditional Landscape in Oil. In 2008 he won the Vezin Purchase Award for his painting, Flatiron, which hangs alongside the work of some of the most important American painters.

In addition, his art has been featured in magazines such as American Art Review, The Artists Magazine, Wildlife Art News and Midwest Art.

He is also featured in three books: Newfound Inspiration, showcasing his paintings of NYC, 100 Plein Air Painters of the Mid-Atlantic and Stars and Stripes, the American Flag in Contemporary Art.

Mike is a signature member the following art organizations: Allied Artists of America, American Artists Professional League, Audubon Artists and American Society of Marine Artists.

In 2012 he received one of his most prized awards, being selected into the Bordentown Regional High School Alumni Hall of Fame. “I’m extremely honored that someone thinks that I have achieved enough to be honored with this award,” he said.

Mike and his wife, Barbara, have two daughters and help care for two grandsons. Kayden, age five, has inherited the art gene and shows interest while eightyear-old Mason has a head for collecting and business so far.

After teaching and coaching for 30 years, Mike looks forward to retiring this year. He’ll be able to paint full-time again plus spend more time fishing, playing pickle ball and traveling.

“I have been extremely lucky in my career as an artist,” he said. “I continue to search, to get better as an artist and I feel my best is yet to come.”

Locally his works are available at the Canal Frame Crafts Gallery, 1093 General Greene Road, Washington Crossing, PA. For more information, call 215.493.3660 or visit www.canalframe.com

Time to visit Bristol

It’s time to visit Bristol. Bristol is now a happening place, yet it is very old. In fact, it is the oldest town in Bucks County. Bristol is as old as Pennsylvania, itself. In 1681 on the same day as Pennsylvania received her charter, Samuel Clift received title to 262 acres covering the original part of Bristol. Bristol’s history is an integral part of the much larger story of William Penn’s land grant, settlement, industrialization, and now it is one of the most picturesque destinations in Bucks County. This Bucks County town that has become a destination still has homes predating the American Revolution and in places, brick sidewalks.

Majestic Federal and Victorian

homes face the Delaware and along Mill Street there are restaurants, specialty retail shops, boutiques, cafes, jewelry stores, antique shops and galleries. The vast amount of work done at the waterfront allows boats to come in from Philadelphia, New Jersey and Delaware to stop, have a meal or a drink, and go shopping, and then see a show at the renowned Bristol Riverside Theatre. The Delaware is wide and beautiful as it slowly passes by Bristol Waterfront Park, which is a place for concerts, festivals, fishing, boating, outdoor dining, monuments and lit up sculptures. Come to the new Bristol and while you are there, enjoy the old.

Photos: Jess Graves

HISTORIC BRISTOL ALONG THE WATERFRONT

Visit bristolborough.com for spring events and attractions and dates and information on Historic Bristol Day, Doo-Woop in the Park and the Christmas Tree Lighting this year.

HISTORIC BRISTOL ALONG THE WATERFRONT

HISTORIC BRISTOL ALONG THE WATERFRONT

NARI’s 2023 Contractor of the year awards

The Bucks-Mont 2023 CotY Awards display for winners a level of excellence of the home remodeling industry

NARI AWARD WINNERS

1. LBK Design Build Residential Kitchen $150,000 - $200,000.

2. Harth Builders, Inc. Residential Exterior Over $200,000.

3. LBK Desing Build Commerical Exterior.

4. Heacock Builders Inc. Entire House $250,000 - $500,000.

6. Gehman Design Remodeling

Staying Fit at Any Age

PUSH THE PEDAL TO THE METAL

by Vicky Paraxismos Waite

One of Bill’s customers wanted to let me know about this uniquely designed fitness cycle. It’s called the Cycle 360 Trainer. She just loves it. I was kind of unconvinced but told Bill it sounds like something that might be worth the trip. Bill kept emphasizing there is no toolbox and fussing needed with it. Maybe that’s why he repeatedly told me about the Cycle 360 Trainer.

We both go over the next week and before meeting up with Nancy and Pete I searched online to see for myself that the Cycle 360 Trainer is one-of-a-kind. Pete and Nancy filled me in before I even got the opportunity to hop on it. They began saying that the Cycle 360 Trainer gives you the intensity of running but without the running-related injuries. And that it allows the hip and core to mobilize during training. Nancy went on to say the use of the Cycle works all her joints through a natural range of motion against a continuous strength of applied resistances.

Laying right in the middle of the Cycle 360 Trainer was Pete and Nancy’s obese pet cat. This cat, not only in my opinion, could use every bit of the Cycle 360 Trainer. I realized it was going to be a problem. I had to practically drag her out of

the middle of the Cycle to use it. The cat seemed exhausted from me just dragging it out of there.

The first thing I noticed about the Cycle 360 Trainer was that it has a vertical stance with no seat, and this encourages good posture through a neutral spine and pelvic stability. The upstanding ergometer is favorable for all ages. The Cycle will restore any dysfunction, improve life quality and performance, and reduce injuries. It’s low impact on your joints. You won’t’ feel any tension on your lower back due to its not having a seat and you are in an upright position.

The cycle 360 trainer includes a multi-gear, magnetic resistance system, making it easier to increase or decrease your workout intensity. What makes the cycle 360 trainer even more unique? It has solid bars on both sides for support, vertical handlebars in front to change positions for upper body movements and push-up dip bar attachment and resistance band hooks for a large variety of upper and lower body exercises.

They have a full video online showing the different positions used to demonstrate how you can get a total workout without risk of injury. The cycle 360 is easy to use and comfortable. It's flexible for all body sizes and types. The design of the cycle allows you to target any sport particularly balance positions that overall will improve body function and conditioning. It works a much bigger section of skeletal muscle. You're moving all your joints to a direct range of motion against a constant force of resistance.

The 360 trainer motivates good posture by keeping the back in a neutral position, giving you a total body workout, and increasing more muscle than any other cycling machine. No seat means no need of adjustments. While I am standing

during the workout, I am burning more calories in a shorter amount of time. With the Cycle 360 you are getting cardiovascular training and mobility through a wide variety of exercises without any pain. It's a great way to incorporate HIIT training into your workouts too. It allows for various training intensities and the choice to switch from low to high without pain and injury to the joints. As I reverse the pedal position the change in the direction is targeting different muscle groups in my legs. I am moving all my joints through a natural range of motion. You can actually do push-ups while riding the cycle 360. Training in the transverse will increase your rotational power, core strength, obliques, and balance.

What makes this stand out over the traditional exercise bikes is that it not only works your lower body but also your total body as well. Less stress and pain to your knees, back and glutes. It's designed to correct joint dysfunctions, muscle imbalances, posture, and distortion problems. While pedaling away I felt relaxed and enjoyed myself even though the pet cat tried to move its way back in. With the Cycle 360 it didn’t feel like it was work. I really liked it!

If you were sitting more than five hours at a desk daily, you will likely have or will have a posture or muscle imbalance. The cycle 360 is exceptional for physical therapy, gyms and work out classes. If you have a soft tissue or spinal injury and discouraged by the absence of exercise options, you will still get a full body workout on the cycle 360, and it's so silent. You can push yourself to essential physical limits with no chance of injury. It activates the most powerful group of muscles in your body that are in the pelvic muscles which are key to the use of upper and lower body.

What it comes down to is that the cycle 360 trainer is an intensive workout without risk of injury. I see this being around for quite a long time but not sure about their pet cat. You can take advantage of their full library from your phone, smart TV, or computer. For more information visit www.cycle360trainer.com. And, as aways with any exercise program consult your physician before beginning.

Sunset

O Lord, how manifold are your works! In wisdom have you made them all; the earth is full of your creatures. Psalm 104:24 (ESV)