Jay Spaziano Real Estate & Lifestyle - Spring 2024

The Color of the Season Jay Spaziano

Go Green!

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Jay Spaziano Real Estate & Lifestyle Magazine

Dear Readers,

Hang on to your britches, it’s springtime! We’ve been busy visiting beautiful properties of all shapes and sizes, getting them ready to hit the market. I can’t wait to see the results and share them with you soon.

I want to offer some clarity regarding the national news headlines spawned by real estate transactions in the mid-west region of our country. Although I am not an attorney nor do I have access to the on-going litigation, I know it must have been serious to garner so much attention and result in major penalties against some pretty large brokerages. I think to put it simply, it all boils down to transparency and providing value to clients. Buyers and Sellers need to understand how agents are compensated and for what services they provide. As a result, the upcoming changes will be that the compensation amount offered will be eliminated from the MLS listings. Sellers will still have the choice to compensate a buyer’s agent and for what amount. The key being that it’s a choice to be made, not a requirement.

Providing value to clients is paramount and is our philosophy at our family-owned business. It’s simple: Service. Value. Dedication. - Repeat

Please dive into our beautiful portfolio and feel the warmth.

Hope you enjoy!

Gina Spaziano

Gina & Jay Spaziano

Jay Spaziano Real Estate

1113 General Washington Memorial Blvd. Washington Crossing, PA 18977 (215) 860-2800

gina@jayspaziano.com

jayspaziano.com

TSecret Spaces

TTHE ALLURE OF SECRET SPACES WITHIN

OUR HOMES transcends age and time. From childhood fantasies of hidden passages to the intrigue of concealed rooms, these disguised corners evoke curiosity and wonder. Let’s take a peek into the world of secret spaces—those enigmatic nooks that add an element of mystery to our everyday lives.

Almost all famous landmarks harbor secret spaces within their grand structures. But why do some homes also boast these covert chambers? The ancient Egyptians constructed secret rooms and false passageways within their monumental pyramids. These hidden spaces served to discourage grave robbers to safeguard the treasures of pharaohs. Throughout history, homeowners have created secret rooms to protect themselves during wars and emergencies. These sanctuaries provided refuge from danger, whether it was a marauding army or a sudden invasion. Some individuals used secret rooms to harbor outlaws, rebels, or runaway slaves, allowing them to escape capture. In contemporary times, secret rooms have evolved into panic rooms. Presidents, VIPs, and security-conscious homeowners employ these fortified spaces as a last line of defense during emergencies.

Secret Storage Under the Stairs

3111 Burnt House Hill Road, Doylestown

Creating a Secret Room

If you’re intrigued by the idea of secret spaces, consider these steps to create your own:

1. Choose a Location: Identify a suitable spot within your home. It could be a large closet, a partitioned room, or an unfinished space waiting to be transformed. The key is to find an area that won’t arouse suspicion.

2. Conceal the Doorway: The entrance to your secret room should be discreet. Consider options like: a bookshelf on hinges that swings open; wood panels that blend seamlessly with the wall; or stairs leading down to a hidden basement room. Install a latch or hook to open and close the door inconspicuously.

3. Plan and Measure: Before construction, meticulously plan the dimensions of your secret doorway. Consider the hardware needed for functionality, such as hinges and latches.

4. Start Construction. If you are a handy, DIY person, go out and purchase all the materials you need to begin or contact your local handyman to help.

Inspiring Ideas for Secret Spaces

• Reading Nook: Imagine a cozy corner behind a bookshelf where you can escape with your favorite novel.

• Home Office Retreat: Convert an unused closet into a private workspace—a haven for productivity.

• Hidden Wine Cellar: Disguise a cellar entrance behind a decorative panel, bookcase, or under the stairs.

• Kid’s Playroom: Surprise your little ones with a secret playroom accessible through a whimsical door.

• Art Studio: Create an artist’s sanctuary tucked away from the hustle and bustle.

Secret spaces in our homes evoke a sense of adventure and magic. Whether you’re safeguarding treasures, seeking refuge, or simply adding an element of surprise, these hidden rooms enrich our lives. So, go ahead—unlock the mystery and create your own secret haven within the familiar walls of your home. Remember, the best secrets are the ones waiting to be discovered. ●

Secret closet behind bookcase

Hidden pet bowl drawer

43 Red Fox Drive, New Hope

Food for Your Soul

SSOULBERRY MARKET is a family owned and operated natural market located in New Hope, Pennsylvania and Spring Lake Heights, New Jersey. They offer a wide selection of organic and non-GMO groceries, organic and local produce, holistic vitamins and supplements, and health and beauty aids. Working in the natural food industry since 2013, their core philosophy is that nourishing your body with the proper foods is one of the strongest forms of medicine available. They are committed to carrying products made with the highest quality ingredients to ensure that you’re fueling your body with foods that will enhance your health.

“Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.”

~ Hippocrates

Supporting local and organic farmers that share their beliefs in organic farming and growing, Soulberry Market strives to build and support our community through supporting other like-minded businesses whose mission is to better serve the well-being of our communities.

At Soulberry Market you will find:

• NO ARTIFICIAL INGREDIENTS, including flavors, colors, sweeteners and preservatives.

• NO INHUMANE MEAT - All of their meats must have no added hormones or antibiotics. Their chicken is vegetarian fed and raised cage free, beef is humanely raised, grass fed and/or pastured, and fish is wild caught or sustainably raised.

• NATURAL HEALTH AND BEAUTY – All products are free from any harsh or toxic chemicals including pthalates, sulfates and parabens.

• 100% ORGANIC PRODUCE – their produce is 100% Certified Organic or locally grown using organic practices.

To better serve the communities and their customers,

Soulberry Market believes in staying current with the trends and latest science by continuing to educate themselves, their staff and customers through targeted trainings and classes. Check out their website or in-store signage for further information.

They offer an amazing selection of grocery items as well as fantastic prepared foods. From wood-fired pizza and strombolis, a huge selection of juices and smoothies, and an array of warm bowls and salads, there is something for everyone! These items change daily so please call ahead if you’re looking for a specific item.

They want everyone to know that whether your looking to make a transition to a healthier lifestyle or you’ve been living this lifestyle for years, Soulberry Market is here to support your journey! ●

Welcome to

North3440Sugan Road

Eye-catching architecture united with a vibrant yet soothing hue makes this newer construction home a pleasant and unique opportunity. Brilliantly planned 4,100 square feet on just over 4 acres in Solebury Township.

1. Scan QR code with the camera app

2. Tap the notification to open the link View this home online!

FEATURED HOME

Random width pine floors throughout, welcoming covered front porch, relaxing sunroom overlooking the backyard and so many refreshing details in between. Elegant brick and bluestone paths lead the way into this amazing home. Enjoy a formal dining room with convenient butler’s area allowing for easy entertaining with sink and beverage refrigeration. A truly inspiring Great Room with a vaulted, decorative beam ceiling, front to back outdoor spaces and highlighting a wood-burning fireplace and custom bookshelves will quickly become an enjoyable space for all. This fantastic room is open to the Gourmet Kitchen showcasing a sizable butcher block island, contrasting custom cabinetry, Quartz counters, induction cook-top and lovely breakfast area infused with wonderful natural light. Tucked away on the opposite wing of the home is the serene Primary Suite with a spacious bath featuring a huge walk-in shower and custom vanity with dual sinks. The upper level hosts 2 En-Suite Bedrooms, loft area perfect for working from home, enormous Bonus Room to satisfy any needs and an ideal storage room. The unfinished lower level allows for additional storage and versatility with a Bilco door out to the yard. This custom built and designed 3 year old home offers the benefits of newer systems and more modern architecture while enjoying wonderful character throughout. Tremendous value on a beautiful lot with a wooded buffer in back and preserved land across the street and within the highly desired New Hope – Solebury school district. ●

Cheese to Please

Situated on land owned by the Hamill family for more than a century, Cherry Grove Farm was started in 2002 as a direct outgrowth of the Hamills’ passion for the land, their Central Jersey community, and the idea of responsible, sustainable food production. While initially home to beef cattle, pigs, sheep, and laying hens, the farm shifted its focus to the production of artisanal cheeses with the addition of dairy cattle in 2005.

CCHERRY GROVE uses the farmstead cheesemaking model, meaning that they do everything on site, from raising and milking the cows to making and aging the cheese. By keeping the process in-house, they can ensure that only the best quality milk is used from humanely treated cattle who graze through the farm’s 400 acres of verdant pasture.

Within a decade of its founding, Cherry Grove established itself as one of the region’s premier cheesemakers, garnering numerous national awards that reflect the care taken in every step of the cheesemaking process. The quality of their cheese reflects the high standards they keep in stewarding their land. They are committed to practicing regenerative agriculture, which involves regularly rotating where the animals are grazing so that both they and the land remain as healthy as possible. The result is cheese, meat, and eggs that are sustainably produced and delicious — food you can feel good about eating.

You can ask for their cheeses at your local farmers market and specialty cheese shop. And they are on the menu at Nomad Pizza, The

Meeting House, Brick Farm Tavern, 12 Farms, Talula’s, and lots of other great spots around New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

At Cherry Grove, they believe that modern society has become very far removed from the origins of most of the food consumed. They think it’s important for folks to understand where their food comes from and how it was produced, which is why they welcome visitors to the farm to watch cheesemaking and animal rearing in action. It’s also why they offer a variety of classes and educational opportunities.

Check out their website for more information on their signature cheesemaking workshops to other homesteading skills such as fermenting, foraging, bread-making, and beekeeping. Their classes allow folks to get their hands dirty while learning practical skills they can use for years to come. Private tours, events, and classes are also available.

Their rustic Farm Store, located just steps from their pastures, is open every day from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Be sure to watch for roaming chickens when you park! In addition to Cherry Grove cheeses, meats, and

eggs, they carry a delightful variety of locally sourced, artisanal foods, drinks, and gifts.

From May to October, they offer monthly farm walks and hayrides led by farm staff. With farmers, cheesemakers, and herbalists as your guides, each hour-long tour is designed to highlight a different aspect of the farm and offer new information about the land and its history, flora, and fauna.

In April they started their monthly First Fridays Fun on the Farm days. Events continue into May with a Calf Welcoming and The Coming of the Milk celebrations. Their fun filled annual Cow Parade takes place in November. ●

200 Lawrenceville Road Lawrenceville, NJ 08648

Store: (609) 219-0053 | Office: (609) 895-1502

www.cherrygrovefarm.com

@cherrygrovefarm

@cherrygrovefarm

Cherry Grove Farm

IBlooming Business

IT WAS IN APRIL 2022, the night before her daughter's 3rd grade Sweetheart Dance, that Rachel Stein realized she forgot to order a corsage and boutonnière. So, she decided to make her own. She told her husband she was sure there were other parents who also forgot to order flowers, and that she wanted to create more and sell them for charity. Her husband suggested donating to Ukraine.

She quickly took to social media and announced that she, a local Council Rock mom, would make and sell florals for the dance and donate 100% of the proceeds to a Ukraine charity. Rachel, her husband, and their two young children (yes, they all pitched in!) raised over $1,000 in roughly 16 hours. It was a tremendous success, and she was left feeling inspired!

The following year Rachel was laid off from her role as a Director of Learning & Development. She began multitasking the work of designing florals for homecomings, proms, and small events, while searching for her next corporate opportunity. It wasn’t long until she realized her calling may not be in corporate, and

that Summer in an effort to continue to create and sell beautiful florals, You'll Be Vine, Floral Design Co. was born.

As of last year, Rachel has been working to grow her business. Mostly taking to social media she works to connect with business owners, event planners, organizations, and shares her floral designs through the creation of reels and videos. Word-of-mouth has been great too. She’s thankful to her family, friends, and prior customers for their tremendous support and sharing of her work.

Rachel is grateful for the successes and opportunities she’s experienced thus far. It’s what keeps her going. “I feel like You’ll Be Vine is just starting to take off!” In less than a year of being laid off, and in addition to the seasonal and holiday sales she’s generated, she’s partnered with local schools for their dances and events by creating florals for students and giving back a percentage of sales. She also recently partnered with a popular gourmet food market that is selling her floral arrangements, and she’s designed arrangements for an event in New York City.

As a natural-born creative, she has dabbled in and enjoyed many artistic outlets including baking, cooking, gardening, interior

design, mixology, and drawing. And now finally, she says she’s found her most rewarding work – creating floral designs.

Rachel is excited to see what 2024 and beyond brings to her company and is looking forward to the people, businesses, opportunities, and floral creations she has yet to encounter.

You'll Be Vine creates beautiful and meticulous floral designs for events, businesses, and any special occasion. They offer delivery or local pickup in Washington Crossing. Be sure to check out their 'Petal Party' workshops which recently launched! ●

Unleash Happiness: Adopt a Shelter Pet

We are happy to let you know that Delta, who was featured in our last issue was adopted by one of our loyal readers! We are trying our luck again with a few featured adoptable pets from Philadoptables.

Mardi

Mardi is an approximately 2-3 year old American Bulldog and/or Boxer mix weighing around 56 pounds. Mardi arrived at a local shelter as a suspected cruelty case in bad shape. She was given proper vet care, some good quality food and lots of TLC. Since then, she really started to shine. Thankfully, Mardi is a sweet soul who does not hold any of her former treatment against people. Since being in foster care, Mardi LOVES people, car rides, and a good roll in the grass. At the moment, Mardi would do best as the only dog in the house. She is crate trained and making progress with housebreaking, however she does have accidents if left too long. Her most recent bloodwork looks good, and her x-rays show some arthritis in her knees that is being managed with quality food, supplements and regular exercise. Mardi's adoption fee includes her spay, vaccinations to date and microchipping. She also tested heartworm negative and is up to date on preventatives.

Meet Gus, the snaggle-toothed, trash-can-raiding street cat with a heart of gold. Gus is estimated to be around 1-year-old and was found living outside a school begging for some attention. He was brought home by a good Samaritan who saw past the rough exterior to the sweet boy inside. It was quickly discovered that Gus prefers the only-cat life and could do well with a low key dog. Other than his distaste for being caught off guard, he truly is an affectionate lap cat who will make a wonderful companion. He will confidently greet new people and will expect some attention, so make sure all your friends are cat lovers. He is always open to a good chat and has a range of expressive vocalizations, for those who enjoy some conversation and is quite playful. Gus is neutered, up to date on vaccinations and will be microchipped and FIV/FelV tested prior to adoption.

Fergie

Meet Fergie, our sweet senior Chihuahua who is about 12 years old and weighs about 9 pounds. Fergie arrived at the shelter after being found on a dead-end street in a soft carrier crate without food and water. She was lucky to have survived being abandoned and arrived at the shelter dehydrated, with a flea infestation, inflamed skin, urine scald and not one but two extremely dry and infected eyes. She was nursed back to health but had to have her right eye removed. Her left eye has chronic dry eye and due to being left untreated, she has lost most of her sight in that eye. Despite this, she is a very sweet and happy girl who loves attention from humans. She is a little more selective (likely due to her limited sight) with dogs, but has acclimated well to the dogs in her foster home. Fergie enjoys going outside and will wait for you to take her out so she can potty outside. Fergie is fully vetted, heart-worm negative, microchipped, on preventatives, has been de-wormed, is receiving bi-weekly medicated baths for her skin. She does have a level three heart murmur which will require future monitoring. Her senior bloodwork results were great and all within normal functions. This girl is Fergalicious and has become our favorite lil one-eyed, black eyed pea!! If you are seeking to adopt a senior Chihuahua with one eye who is almost blind, then LOOK no further, you’ve found her!

Celyn

Celyn is an approximately 6-month-old medium sized mixed breed. The rescue doesn’t really know what exactly her mix is, but an educated guess is there is at least some Catahoula Leopard dog mix in there. While the shelter doesn’t want to label a deaf dog as special needs because according to Celyn, and anyone who knows her, she is just a typical happy puppy. The only difference is she can't hear when a dog barks at her to play more. Deaf dogs are amazing creatures and are easily trained, often with things like hand signals. Obviously, even more care than usual should be taken to make sure she does not accidentally get off leash as she cannot hear you calling her back and can't hear dangers like cars coming. She may also be partially visually impaired. She does so well, it is hard to tell! Celyn is super friendly with everyone. She loves people and she loves dogs. She will need a family willing to continue to work with her on housebreaking and basic manners.

Lula

CALLING ALL EXPERIENCED

CHIHUAHUA OWNERS:

Meet Lula. At 7 years old, she’s 13 pounds of pure Chihuahua. While she is a work in progress, a lot of her behavior is born out of fear and that comes out as aggression. She is super intelligent, housebroken (but hates the rain, of course), wants to be an only child, is very protective, and just really wants to know she’s safe. Lula is active and can jump a 4-foot fence. She chases anything that comes into her yard – squirrels, rabbits, etc. – and almost catches them and barks when she hears noises. People want to pet her because she’s so cute but that’s a big NO NO. Lula does not like strangers approaching her. Her new home should have a high fence that’s secure so Lula can roam in the yard and chase until her little heart is content. Her ideal home would have a yard just for her, no other animals, someone to dote on her and give her all their attention. A house where she can nap with her humans or sleep with them at night.

Zellie

Meet Zellie a snuggly and sweet 7-year-old senior Pit Bull Terrier mix. Zellie is dog friendly and would be fine with older children. She can be a little shy to new friends but give her a chance to warm up and she’s yours forever! She is house broken, spayed and prefers a home without cats. Opening your heart and home to a senior dog is such a rewarding experience!

Michael & Philippa

These two 4-year-old cats were found as kittens and have bonded over the years. They were adopted in 2019 to a lovely woman who unfortunately passed away, so they were returned to the rescue. Michael likes cuddles, Philippa prefers head rubs. She’s also addicted to Temptation treats. They are mild tempered and get along well with other cats of similar temperament. They are both fixed, up to date on vaccines, Fiv/ Felv negative and microchipped. The adoption fee has been paid by an anonymous donor for any qualified applicant.

For more information or to adopt any of these wonderful animals, please contact info@philadoptables.org

P.O. Box 1098

Southampton, PA 18966

Michael

Philippa

Whispers in the Walls: The Secret Stops of Bucks County’s Underground Railroad

BBUCKS COUNTY has gained the reputation as a “Revolutionary War Hub” due to its Philadelphian influences and is home to the historic site where General George Washington and his men crossed the Delaware River on Christmas Eve in 1776. But Bucks County’s national influence did not stop there. The county, and its surrounding areas, became a pivotal location during the abolitionist movement and Civil War, especially with the Underground Railroad.

The Underground Railroad is a bit of a misnomer—neither underground nor a railroad, it was an intricate network of secret routes on land and water and locations to help fugitive slaves reach Union territory. Each stop on the Underground Railroad was called a “station” and the properties’ owners were called “station masters” or “conductors” to maintain the secrecy of the system. Escaped slaves en-route were referred to as “passengers” and once they reached each station, their aliases turned into “cargo.” Most stations along the network are about 10 to 20 miles apart. Surprisingly, it is suspected that many conductors worked alone or in very small groups and communicated their involvement in the Underground Railroad through word-of-mouth techniques and lit lanterns in the window. With close access to Philadelphian ports, Bucks County became home to many stations on the Underground Railroad and many still can be visited today making it a great day trip adventure.

memorate the history of the abolitionist movement. Here’s a sampling:

1870 Wedgwood Inn, New Hope – Still in operation today, this B&B has made local history as a hiding spot for weapons during the Revolutionary War. Moving into the 19th century, the inn’s grounds had access to a secret tunnel that can be found hidden in the property’s gazebo. The tunnel served as a passage to head further north into Lumberville.

African Methodist Episcopal Church, Bensalem – This church’s station master is considered to be Robert Purvis, an abolitionist who is believed to have helped 9,000 former slaves to

was one of the earliest free African American communities in the county. Yardley has several private residences in the borough that are suspected of being stops on the Underground Railroad with many more still waiting to be found. Also in Yardley, The Continental Tavern, still operates as a restaurant but during the Civil War, it was suspected that the tavern, the Yardley Grist Mill, and Lakeside were all connected through a secret tunnel system to help fugitive slaves traverse the town.

Buckingham Friends Meeting House & Newtown Theatre – The meeting house became a place for locals to hold anti-slavery lectures and is still active and worship services take place every Sunday. The Newtown Theatre was another prominent location and famous leaders, like Frederick Douglass and Lucretia Mott, led anti-slavery seminars here.

Bristol, New Hope, Langhorne, & Yardley – Many Underground Railroad stations are yet to be uncovered but these towns have deep roots in the abolitionist movement.

escape further into Union territory. He rowed fugitives up the Delaware River from Philadelphia to Bensalem, making this church one of the most active Underground Railroad stations in the county.

Mount Gilead Church, Holicong – The church made enormous strides in Bucks County as the first all African American worship community and served as a final stop for fugitive slaves.

Several other notable Bucks County Underground Railroad stations are private residences. ●

Visit Bucks County has identified 16 prominent locations that were stations on the Underground Railroad and sites that com-

Bristol, New Hope, Langhorne, & Yardley – Many Underground Railroad stations are yet to be uncovered but these towns have deep roots in the abolitionist movement. Bristol and New Hope were prominent stops for water transport along the Delaware River. Langhorne, then known as Attleboro, was home to another African Methodist Church and

Sources: https://www.nps.gov/wori/learn/historyculture/significantevents-of-the-underground-railroad.htm

https://www.mercermuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/ 2014/10/A-Timeline-of-Bucks-County-History-1600s1900s-rev-8-14-13.pdf

https://education.nationalgeographic.org/ resource/underground-railroad/

Indian Springs Road, Doylestown 28 Thompson Mill Road, Newtown

2950 Windy Bush Road, Upper Makefield Twp 84 Red Hill Road, Pipersville

E Creamery Road, Perkasie

35 Belamour Drive, Washington Crossing 26 Red Fox Drive, New Hope

Taylorsville Road, Washington Crossing

3320 N Sugan Road, New Hope

Sibelius Drive, Newtown

Balsam Court, Newtown

Beidler Drive, Washington Crossing

20 Brooks Bend Drive, Upper Makefield Twp

4 Sprucefield Court, New Hope

3969 Hillcrest Drive, Furlong

214 Bobwhite Road New Hope

7 Spring Oak Drive, Upper Makefield Twp

7 Berkley Drive, Yardley

Tohickon Hill Road, Pipersville

Thompson Mill Road, Upper Makefield Twp

4 Hillside Lane, Yardley

203 Riverwoods Drive, New Hope

208 Farleigh Court, Langhorne

408 Executive Drive, Langhorne

6 Winding Brook Way, Titusville

April Lynn Hynes In Memoriam

April Hynes is one of my favorite people.

It all started when she was a client of ours, then a colleague on our marketing team and ultimately, an awesome friend. She taught me so much about positivity, not being afraid to use my creativity and the importance of pure, unadulterated laughter. I never saw April have a bad day. Her enthusiastic energy always changed the vibe in any room she was in. I miss her so much.

I never would have imagined that I would be writing a tribute to her life in the same publication that she helped us create. April was my cheerleader, a fierce researcher pulling concepts together and pushing me out of my comfort zone to make our magazine happen.

As I look down through all of my tears at April’s heart shaped paperweight on my desk, I know that her spirit and inspiration will always be with us.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a memorial contribution in April’s name to: Mary’s Place By The Sea www.marysplacebythesea.org

April, thank you for being such an uplifting soul. You left an indelible mark on all of us and we hope that you are relishing the peace and comfort you deserve.

We love you!

Gina & Jay