“Thanks to the wonderful care I got when I had breast cancer, I’m back in my happy place.”
– JoAnn G.
When an imaging specialist at Easton Hospital found a suspicious spot during JoAnn’s mammogram, the doctor felt she needed to take a closer look. So, she performed an ultrasound-guided biopsy. It turned out to be cancer. “I’m glad they found it when they did,” said JoAnn. “The first thing I wanted to know was when they could get it out of me. I can’t say enough about the team at Easton. A nurse navigator guided me through the entire process, from tests, surgery and radiation through nutrition. I’m here because they went the extra step. Thanks to Easton Hospital, I’m still here swimming. Just me, the water, and peace of mind.”
To learn more about JoAnn’s story, visit MyEastonStory.com.
FINE.
Bon Appetit! One of the biggest and best events of the year is back, and tastier than ever. Savor more than 20 of the Lehigh Valley’s most prestigious restaurants along with an impressive array of fine wines from around the world.
Bon Appetit! One of the biggest and best events of the year is back, and tastier than ever. Savor more than 20 of the Lehigh Valley’s most prestigious restaurants along with an impressive array of fine wines from around the
Friday, June 3 • 2pm
Friday, June 3 • 2pm
Foundry Meeting Room
Emeril Lagasse Cooking Demo
Foundry Meeting Room Emeril Lagasse Cooking Demo
Saturday, June 4 & Sunday, June 5 • 12pm - 4pm Sands Bethlehem Event Center
Music by Craig Thatcher on Saturday & The Billy Bauer Band on Sunday TICKETS ON SALE NOW! Visit lehighvalleyfoodandwine.com for details. Sponsorship opportunities are available. Call 610-332-6578 for more information.
TITLE: Sands Bethlehem, Southern Wine & Spirits of Pennsylvania ENTERTAINMENT: BB&T UNDERWRITING: Adams Outdoor Advertising PLATINUM: CAPTRUST | Strategic Advisor Group, PPL, Prudential, Tri-Outdoor, Inc., Viamedia GOLD: B. Braun Medical, Inc., Christmas City Printing SILVER: Air Products, Buzzi Unicem, Capital BlueCross, Fulton Financial Advisors, KPMG, Lafayette Ambassador Bank, Martin Guitar, Mortgage America, Talen Energy CONTRIBUTING: American Bank, Bill & Denise Spence, Boro Construction, Breslin Ridyard Architects, Bruce ’77 & Judy Palmer, Care by TeleMD, Chris ’77 & Diane Martin, CrossAmerica Partners & Dunne Manning, D’Huy Engineering, Diefenderfer Electrical Contractors, ESSA Bank & Trust, FLSmidth, Follett Corporation, The Garland Company,Inc., Highmark Blue Shield, J.G. Petrucci Co., Inc., John & Chrissie Wagner, J.M. Uliana & Associates, Just Born, Mark & Jackie Juliano, MINI of Allentown, MKSD, Morningstar Senior Living, Muschliitz Excavating, PSECU, Serfass Construction Company, Synergy, The Restaurant Store, Wind Gap Electric, Inc., Worth & Company, Inc. FRIEND OF THE FESTIVAL: CityCenter Lehigh Valley, Diversified Lighting Associates, Ernst & Young, John & Donna Eureyecko, Johnson Controls, Mark & Lin Erickson, Michael Thomas Floral Design Studio, Stroudsmoor Country Inn, Strunk-Albert Engineering, Univest, Valley Central Veterinary Referral and Emergency Center PaSands.com | Follow Us
TITLE: Sands Bethlehem, Southern Wine & Spirits of Pennsylvania ENTERTAINMENT: BB&T UNDERWRITING: Adams Outdoor Advertising PLATINUM: CAPTRUST | Strategic Advisor Group, PPL, Prudential, Tri-Outdoor, Inc., Viamedia GOLD: B. Braun Medical, Inc., Christmas City Printing SILVER: Air Products, Buzzi Unicem, Capital BlueCross, Fulton Financial Advisors, KPMG, Lafayette Ambassador Bank, Martin Guitar, Mortgage America, Talen Energy CONTRIBUTING: American Bank, Bill & Denise Spence, Boro Construction, Breslin Ridyard Architects, Bruce ’77 & Judy Palmer, Care by TeleMD, Chris ’77 & Diane Martin, CrossAmerica Partners & Dunne Manning, D’Huy Engineering, Diefenderfer Electrical Contractors, ESSA Bank & Trust, FLSmidth, Follett Corporation, The Garland Company,Inc., Highmark Blue Shield, J.G. Petrucci Co., Inc., John & Chrissie Wagner, J.M. Uliana & Associates, Just Born, Mark & Jackie Juliano, MINI of Allentown, MKSD, Morningstar Senior Living, Muschliitz Excavating, PSECU, Serfass Construction Company, Synergy, The Restaurant Store, Wind Gap Electric, Inc., Worth & Company, Inc. FRIEND OF THE FESTIVAL: CityCenter Lehigh Valley, Diversified Lighting Associates, Ernst & Young, John & Donna Eureyecko, Johnson Controls, Mark & Lin Erickson, Michael Thomas Floral Design Studio, Stroudsmoor Country Inn, Strunk-Albert Engineering, Univest, Valley Central Veterinary Referral and Emergency Center PaSands.com | Follow Us
SPONSORS
SPONSORS
Two years ago, our son Keith suffered a brain injury in an automobile accident. We chose Good Shepherd Rehabilitation Hospital Pediatric Unit to help him recover because they understood his needs as a teenager and our needs as a family.
Thanks to the experts at Good Shepherd, Keith attends college and enjoys a full and active life. - Steve and Kelly Marks, parents of Keith Marks
1 - 888 - 44 - REHaB
See more of Keith’s story at BeyondLimitsRehab.org.
by Shelbie Pletz
Tracey Mathews of Trixie’s Treats, shot by Colin Coleman.
Photo
L.L.BEAN
CHARMING CHARLIE - NEW LOFT ATHLETA
AMERICAN EAGLE
MAY 2016
One Great Big Talent Search...
On our annual editorial calendar, we call this our “Arts and Culture” edition. Thankfully, because we’re blessed with such a vibrant regional arts community, our biggest problem in producing this issue was narrowing our focus to just three features. We couldn’t think of a better place to start than to highlight the growth of a local school whose focus is on educating the minds and nurturing the potential of young actors, singers, musicians and dancers. This magical place where talent is honed is the Lehigh Valley Charter High School for the Arts. Join us for a walk down their halls and meet a few of the gifted students who auditioned their way in. Also this month, we’ll introduce you to three groups of talented musicians making their mark on the Valley’s music scene. For a little fame and not much fortune, they’re driven to work their way through day jobs and night gigs to entertain us along their path to stardom.
Performing artists aren’t the only people driven by talent—our growing local food truck scene has been fueled by entrepreneurial foodies who are literally driving their talents around town. Serving up everything from cheesesteaks to cupcakes,
hopefully you’ll discover one of them parked at a curb near you.
The driving force of talent can be found in all of the people featured in this issue—and every month. Finding compelling editorial for this magazine is like one great big talent search and there’s no shortage of it in the Lehigh Valley, that’s for sure. The recurring theme in the stories we tell is that of people who have figured out how to align their passions and their purpose. I think Will Rogers said it best: “If you find the right job, you’ll never have to work a day in your life.” So whether you’re a gifted carpenter, an inspiring teacher, a nurturing healthcare worker or a loving parent, put your talents to work every day and you’ll never find yourself looking for a job.
Contributing Writers: Susan Bianchi, Pattie Giordani, Carrie Havranek, Steve Piccione, Dustin Schoof, Stacey Solt, Daisy Willis
Contributing Photographers: Matt Bishop, Colin Coleman, Alison Conklin, Shelbie Pletz, Lori Smith
Editorial Intern: Joshua Herring
Proofreader: Lori McLaughlin
Accounting: Donna Bachman, Debbie Clune
Circulation Manager: Andrea Karges
THE HIGHEST STANDARD
Your home should be a place unlike anywhere else. It should exude a style and ambiance that is uniquely you. Choose a luxury real estate agent who understands your standard of home.
MEET THE STAFF PLANT JOY.
HOME & GARDEN
Kelli Hertzog
Marketing & Events Coordinator Bethlehem
We know your title, but what do you really do? Give us the nitty-gritty details on the role you play in making Style come to life. A healthy mix of social media, event planning, editorial conception, styling and assisting in the evolution of our brand as we go forward into 2016.
How long have you been at Style? How did you get started? Holy four years this month! I was an intern in the summer of 2011 and quickly decided there was absolutely no other place I could work. I made that my ultimate mission, and in 2012, it was a reality!
What’s something about your job that readers might not know or expect? Well, not about my job in particular, but that we have a staff of about eight people, give or take, that send this publication to the press on a monthly basis!
What’s the vibe in your work area? Relaxed and open. The 100 percent open-office space (we’re talking cubes, no doors) has its ups and downs, but is fantastic for collaboration purposes.
What makes working at Style better than any other job? 1. The Style team. I couldn’t imagine a better group of women (and Tom!) to work side by side with—we’re literally family. 2. The open environment in which every idea and brainstorm is respected and every person is treated as an equal no matter your title (looking at you, Memmi).
Photo by Colin Coleman
What distracts you from your work? Getting sucked into the depths of social media trying to find out the newest and most exciting things going on in the Valley—but hey, that is my job, right?
It’s lunchtime: What’s on the menu? I’ll give anyone that knows me three guesses. It starts with chicken and ends with potatoes.
What are you currently obsessed with? Since I only go from zero interest to utterly obsessed with things, there’s little I’m not obsessed with. BUT I’d say my Zumba and boot camp classes with Leslie D. and perfecting my summer wardrobe are up there on the list.
In your opinion, why is Style Scene such an integral part of every issue? So many reasons. It’s by far the most popular part of the magazine and such a great way to showcase the local charity events in the area, not to mention the priceless reader engagement factor.
What is your absolute favorite Style event? The Best of the Lehigh Valley party, of course.
How do you hope to see Style events changing and evolving in the future? To be unique and unlike any event the Lehigh Valley has seen, as far as event décor, guest experience and sponsorship activation.
What do you love about monthly Style Insider Happy Hours? What do you think readers love about them? They’re a great outlet to see our audience and brand literally come to life. I think readers love being a part of the “Style community” and have even formed bonds among each other.
What can readers see you drinking at a Style Insider Happy Hour? What will they never see you drinking? Typically a white wine or a fruity drink if they’re on special. Never drinking? Any liquor on the rocks.
What role does social media play in Style ’s connection to its audience? A HUGE role. It’s pretty much a direct real-time connection with our friends and fans and a great way to really get them involved with the brand, whether it be through asking for their feedback or sharing one of their photos.
Are there any big event plans currently in the works that readers should keep their calendars open for? It’s like this question was made for me! Keep your calendars open for our Best Of party coming up on June 29. We’ll be celebrating pop-up style. ■ s
STYLE SCENE
EVENTS | BENEFITS | GALAS | PARTIES
One Enchanted Evening Annual Symphony Ball
BENEFIT: Allentown Symphony Orchestra
LOCATION: Lehigh Country Club
PHOTOS BY: Shelbie Pletz
1. Angie and Frank Heston 2. Bill and Phyllis Grube 3. Bill Burfeind, Whit Peckham, Diane Wittry and Curtis McDowell 4. Bill Dewalt and Samantha Kahoe 5. Bonnie and Joseph Heydt 6. Brian and Lynn Regan, and Terri and Jim Bartholomew 7. Dan Bonstein and Kate Falasca 8. Deb and Fred Stellato 9. Deb and Gerry Nau 10. Devon and Deena Robinson 11. Donna and John Bassler 12. Hugh and Rochelle Friel 13. Jarrett and Mandy Laubach 14. Joe and Linda Abraham 15. Mark and Tiffany Wilten, and Bussie and Sean Kehoe 16. Juan Carlos Vidal and Adriana DeFrancisco 17. Lindsay and Chris Cardenas 18. Melanie and Nate Agentis 19. Lori Lawler and Danielle Lawler 20. Norma Nunez and Zoie Ruch 21. Robert Cort and Sheila Evans 22. Teresa and Rick Huck 23. Sandra Soloman and Lucy Bloise 24. Sarah and Jarrett Schaffer 25. Sean and Dawn Fahey 26. Ted Rosenberger and Kevin Sprague 27. Tom and Elaine Whalen
STYLE SCENE
Get Your Heart Racing Gala
BENEFIT: American Heart Association
LOCATION: DeSales University Center
PHOTOS BY: Shelbie Pletz
1. Amira and Tai DeSa 2. Amy and Steve Bowers 3. Biagio Pugliese and Elisha Worthington 4. Bob and Allison Rodo 5. Chrissy and Bobby Canady 6. Christy and Doug Warfel 7. Christi and Jim Lakey, and Carol Karr 8. Clarissa Schealer and Dave Gloss 9. Diane and Mike Molewski 10. Ed and Eileen Gloss 11. Kabrile Bradley, Waleska Maturana and Lauren Graves 12. Emily and Ron Freudenberger 13. Evan and Karen Hand 14. Evelyn and Greg Kite 15. Jamie and John Guzzo 16. Jeff and Dwithiya Thomas 17. Jessica and Colin Keefe 18. Laura Hannigan, Raymond Singer and Lindsey Hannigan 19. Judianne and Chris Harris 20. Judy and Don Nymberg 21. Kathleen and Mark Jobes 22. Martin and Tiffany Till and Mackenzie Till 23. Ronald Hodges and Carlos Hodges 24. Shelli and Bill Rearden 25. William and Karen McNaney 26. Marco Ramelah and Patrice Kane 27. Jane Brooks and Winnie Melinsky 28. Nicki and Scott Weidenhammer
Funds for bucket lists
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Apply online at nationalpenn.com/fundsfor
STYLE SCENE
The 2016 Annual Snow Ball
BENEFIT: The Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce
Small Business Council
LOCATION: Sands
Bethlehem Event Center
PHOTOS BY: Vlad Image Studio
Angela DelGrosso 9. Greg Yestrumskas and Ashley James 10. Helena and Shawn Erie 11. Jaclyn and Patrick McNealis 12. Jeff Zellner and Shannon Emert 13. Katey Dickey and Tony Russo 14.
Andy
Adrienne
21.
1. Abby and Alan Roth 2. Angelo and Jane Amato 3. Benjamin Henry and Emily Connors 4. Breanne Ralston and Alyssa Ralston 5. Cameron McCoy, Joanna Bennewitz, and Nina and Justin Odom 6. David Levits and Stephanie Yachim 7. Diane and Howard Archer 8. Greg Colvin and
Marlyn Kissner, Renee Keiderling, Alyssa Schoup and Alice Wanamaker 15. Kellie and Scott Bartholomew 16. Michael and Colleen Driscoll 17. Peter and Stephanie Koenig, Meghan Silvia and
Castanaro 18. Paul and Lisa Prass 19. Randy and Joe Hanna 20. Rob and Alesha Pretopapa
Tony and
DaRe 22. Sean Dougherty, Nicolle Gill and Jared Eberly 23. Tony and Melissa Hodge 24. Tyler Marx and Blair Lieberman 25. Steven and Cassie Fernstrom 26. Renata Gizatullina, George Pitsilos and Kayla Pitsilos
LOCATION: Corked Wine Bar & Steak House
PHOTOS BY: Shelbie Pletz
1. Annie Lanscek, Amber Reigle and Bri Stempo 2. Bonnie Nicholas and Melinda Stano 3. Christel Gift and Andrea Skirdlant 4. Danielle Clune and Becca Matta 5. Bill Binczak, Dan Mies and Kyle McFarland 6. Diane Laky and Trevor Shelbo 7. Holly Hall and Kevin Brotzman 8. Irina Baburina and Tina Hamilton 9. Jade Cortez and Emily Poche 10. Katie McLain and Penny Verdon 11. Kelly D’Imperio and Rebecca Bitner 12. Karen Hickey, and John and Carrie Oesmann 13. Mary Charon, and Diane and Lou Spironello 14. Samantha Dellatore, Michael Pierce and Paulette White 15. Gene Jaindl, and Joy and Dick Bohannon 16. Pam Prisaznik and Emily Prisaznik 17. Rachel Tomkins and Aubrey Hendricks 18. Melissa Chuchran, Amanda Harding, Carrie Mehl and Shelbi Stoneback 19. Stella DeSantis and Tory Weaver 20. Tim Duquette and Janet Fiugalski
Big Fat Greek Wine Dinner
BENEFIT: Judith Adele Agentis Foundation
LOCATION: Yianni’s Taverna
1. Denise Conlin and Paul Lichty 2. Elene Diacogiannis and Mary Moukoulis 3. Jack Gross and Jill Stahlberg 4. Pardeep Ghia and Karen Ford 5. Robert and Sharon Smith 6. Tom Williams, Jr. and Heather Formica
Chestnut Terrace
PREMIER EVENTS
Apr. 30-May 22
SOTA Show House
The 1903 Shingle-style Moyer-Metzger Manse is open to visitors during this Society of the Arts event. Peruse original architectural details in this grand home on Allentown’s “Mansion Row.”
$25 | 1406 Hamilton St., Allentown 484.695.0007 | sotapa.org
7Mother’s Day Tea
Sip tea or coffee with your mama during a presentation on fashion trends throughout history.
Adults: $9, Children: $4, Members: Free | 1 p.m. Lehigh Valley Heritage Museum
432 W. Walnut St., Allentown | 610.435.1074 x 14 lehighvalleyheritagemuseum.org
21 & 22 Wine & Cheese Pairing
Learn which wines go with which cheeses in a series of tastings at nine local wineries on the Lehigh Valley Wine Trail, and soon you’ll be hosting wine and cheese parties of your own!
One sample free, additional tastings vary Sat. 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. noon-5 p.m. Lehigh Valley Wine Trail lehighvalleywinetrail.com
21-29 Quiet Valley’s Farm Animal Frolic
Two weekends of farm-animal fun, activities, games and snacks are offered at this living historical farm. Kids can try horse-drawn wagon rides, carding and crafts with wool, and meet a variety of baby farm animals.
347 Quiet Valley Rd., Stroudsburg 570.992.6161 | quietvalley.org
30-22
21-29
Photo by Deb DiPasquale
Photo by Marco Calderon Photography
1 From the Past to the Future
Director David Diggs will lead Lehigh University’s wind ensemble in this special sesquicentennial program, featuring arrangements and notable compositions drawn from the university’s dynamic musical history. It will be a timeline of tunes, showcasing Lehigh’s diversity of musicians and unchanging creative spirit.
$15, Lehigh Students Free with ID | 3 p.m. Zoellner Arts Center
420 E. Packer Ave., Bethlehem
610.758.2787 | zoellnerartscenter.org
from the audience a combination of laughter and nostalgia with a show written by Woody Allen and directed by Susan Stroman. It’ll be a 1920s throwback—with both the showmanship and the “flapping” personalities.
$50-$60 | 7 p.m. | Zoellner Arts Center
420 E. Packer Ave., Bethlehem 610.758.2787 | zoellnerartscenter.org
3 She Nailed It
11 Ellie Goulding
After her 2010 debut album Lights topped the U.K. charts during its first week, Goulding’s sound and popularity soared. On her Delirium world tour, there’s no doubt she’ll bring her offbeat charisma and poignant melodies with numbers like “Burn” and “Love Me Like You Do”—as well as a possible preview for her 2016 listeners.
competition, luncheon and social. The Women Build Initiative supports women who want to learn construction skills, build homes and communities in order to combat the housing crisis facing millions of women and children worldwide. Sign up to help this cause or come to witness some strong women contend in this one-off, nail hammering competition.
$50 | 4 p.m. | ArtsQuest Center
101 Founders Way, Bethlehem
610.776.7737 | habitatlv.org
7 KidsPeace 5K Family Fun Mud Run
Join the mud fun and show your support for this local community service organization. KidsPeace invites you to their vast Orchard Hills Campus for the fourth annual Family Fun Mud Run, where kids and adults—no matter their ability level— can sign up and choose to tackle either the one-mile course or the more challenging 5K scenic trail and obstacle course.
$25-$60 | 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
KidsPeace Orchard Hills Campus
5300 KidsPeace Dr., Orefield kidspeace.org/mudrun
8 Bullets Over Broadway
Celebrate the ever-growing tradition of tap dancing at this Lehigh University event, where guest performers will not only demonstrate contemporary tap choreography, but also command
Show your support for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society by attending this Man and Woman of the Year campaign event. Hosted by Chrissy Hixson, this will be a ladies night special at the Promenade Shops’ Capital Blue center. Expect auction baskets, massages, a wine and chocolate bar, mocktails and much more in the works.
$30-$50 | 6-9 p.m.
The Promenade Shops at Saucon Valley 610.820.2731 | chrissycares.org
12 Brooks Wheelan
With experiences like being a cast member on Saturday Night Live and a testimonial from the A.V. Club dubbing him a “considerable talent with a unique voice,” 29-year-old Wheelan is moving his way into mainstream comedy. His stand-up is absurd, much like his own life; the Iowan received his biomedical engineering degree and then decided to try and make a name for himself as a comic.
The name Copper Fields may evoke famous magicians and classic literature at first, but the spirit of this band and its catchy, friendly music is decidedly more down to earth. Once you hear the warmth of their sound, you’ll be transported to a summer day cruising by the cornfields that inspired the band’s name.
Jason Ziegler (lead vocals and guitar) and Kirk Patnaude (banjo) had played in bands together in the past, but three years ago, when they ran into each other at a bluegrass festival, the timing was right to fire up another songwriting partnership. A little later, Warren Snead (bass) joked about their need for a bass player and turned out to be a perfect fit.
All the guys have spent their lives with music, whether it was Snead’s background in gospel or Patnaude’s experience in bluegrass bands. Despite Ziegler wanting drums as a kid and getting a saxophone instead, it wasn’t long before he picked up the guitar in high school.
Though the best genre labels for them might be soul, pop and funk, Copper Fields describes their sound as organic, and their performances certainly seem to come naturally. Fans find the lyrics sticking with them, and it’s just as Ziegler intended: “We want the audience to connect, to feel like they sat down and wrote with us.”
Copper Fields’ summer sounds and laid-back harmonies have been easy to find in the Lehigh Valley since their first gig opening for the Christian Lopez Band. They opened for comedian Paul Reiser at the Musikfest Café at SteelStacks, play regularly at spots like Porter’s Pub and the Bally Hotel and are sure to appear at festivals and galas throughout the warm months.
CopperFieldsMusic
The Lehigh Valley Habitat for Humanity
CALENDAR 5.16
ART
MARYANN RIKER
BY STEVE PICCIONE
Maryann Riker’s ingenious creations rattle rigid categories for books and art objects. Her diverse pieces enchant and educate as they unfold in the viewers’ hands and imaginations. Exquisite design and expert execution propel these art books far beyond the limitations of traditional paintings that hang on walls for ocular consideration.
The arcane boxes produced by Lucas Samaras and Joseph Cornell left a lasting imprint on Riker. In fact, their art still draws her into its odd orbit. She shares, “I leave nose prints on display cases at exhibits centered on their works.” Her job in graphic design and advertising also shaped her sensibility as to how marketing-driven image formation influenced women (especially from the 1940s through the 1970s). One will find many iconic images from this era in her pieces.
In the early ‘90s, altered books popped up on Riker’s radar through a book group in Northern New Jersey and encounters with Printed Matter (a fascinating nonprofit in New York City that represents artists creating zines, art books and mail art). However, it was an exceptional exhibit of art books curated by Curlee Holton at Lafayette College that launched her into creating these genre-bending wonders.
Since that life-shaping encounter, Riker’s work has soared. Over the years, her art has added its rare flair to numerous shows in the Lehigh Valley, New York City and Philadelphia. Moreover, wise curators have placed her art in distinctive special collections at Yale University, Chicago Art Institute, the Brooklyn Museum of Art, Rutgers and Lafayette College.
So what does Riker hope people take away from an encounter with her work? She says, “I hope they broaden their concept of what a book can be through my work. Also, to teach them more about the topics I incorporate such as women and family in post-WWII America, the works of Emily Dickinson and other important moments in history.”
Enjoy a whiskey tasting hosted by McCarthy’s Red Stag Pub and Whiskey Bar, as well as a craft beer tasting—with over 20 available for sampling and purchase—hosted by Yards Brewing Company in association with Allentown Beverage. Proceeds will support the annual Star of Bethlehem Festival for Kids on June 5.
$25 for whiskey or beer tasting, $40 for both 5-10 p.m. | Daniel E. Rice Plaza
Lehigh and Spring Sts., Bethlehem 610.462.1780 | christmascitywinefestival.org
13-22 Bethlehem Bach Festival
Experience the oldest American Bach Choir, The Bach Choir of Bethlehem, as they perform the works of Johann Sebastian Bach over two weekends complete with concerts, special solo performances and even lectures. Since 1898, this Bethlehem-founded festival has drawn thousands of national and international classical music enthusiasts every May to witness arrangements performed by some of the Valley’s most esteemed musicians.
Prices vary per performance
Lehigh University
27 Memorial Dr. W., Bethlehem
610.866.4382 | bach.org
14 Christmas City Wine Festival
Back again this May, the Christmas City Wine Festival brings you Pennsylvania wine, meads and live music by Girl Crüe and the Cherry Bombs. Come and mingle at this annual event and try some unbeatable samplings from the participating wineries: Antler Ridge, KOG Hill Winery, Stonekeep Meadery, Cherry Valley Vineyards and Peace Valley Winery.
In advance: $15, Door: $20 | 1-6 p.m.
Daniel E. Rice Plaza
Lehigh and Spring Sts., Bethlehem 610.462.1780 | christmascitywinefestival.org
14 Scene of the Crime
Allentown’s premier comedy troupe, The Associated Mess, brings you a hysterical murder mystery. The production will feature Detective Harland Honeycrisp in his quest to identify Lady Edith Scoffington’s murderer, and your help is key to solving the mystery.
$4-$6 | 10:30 p.m.
ArtsQuest Center
101 Founders Way
Bethlehem
610.297.7100
steelstacks.org
14-15 US Open 2016: Miniature Golf
This international tournament hosted right here in the Valley will feature some of the world’s best miniature golfers. Do you consider yourself a minigolf professional or know someone who does? Register to confirm a practice time and a spot to compete at this Putt U tournament presented by the Coca-Cola Bottling Co. of the Lehigh Valley.
$100 | Putt U Miniature Golf
5201 Rt. 309, Center Valley
610.798.9800 | puttu.com
17 Def Leppard
To say Def Leppard fans are eagerly anticipating a 2016 tour is an understatement. The band has sold over 100 million records worldwide, garnered two prestigious Diamond Awards and most recently released their 2015 self-titled album that reached first place on Billboard’s Top Rock Albums Chart. Featuring two other chart-topping giants—REO Speedwagon and Tesla—this show on the North American Tour is sure to rock the PPL Center and take audiences back to the ‘80s.
$40-$106 | 7 p.m.
701 Hamilton St., Allentown
610.224.4625 | pplcenter.com
19 Rachel Feinstein
At 17, Feinstein fled to New York in hopes of becoming an emerging actress, but her characterdriven stand-up act proved well regarded, and she quickly became a nationally touring comedian. She appeared on shows like Last Week Tonight with John Oliver, Inside Amy Schumer and The View. Her acts are notorious for catching audience members off-guard by playing with gender and ethnic stereotypes.
$25 | 8 p.m. | ArtsQuest Center
101 Founders Way, Bethlehem
610.297.7100 | steelstacks.org
STAGE 6-22 ASSASSINS
BY DAISY WILLIS
The always-ambitious Civic Theatre of Allentown is producing a Tony Award-winning play this month for all the fans of Broadway musical theatre. Assassins, by Stephen Sondheim, portrays all of America’s presidential assassins (and would-be assassins) in a kind of carnival revue. From John Wilkes Booth to Lee Harvey Oswald and beyond, musical numbers reflect the style of music current in each character’s day for a journey through time as well as the minds of some of our most controversial and reviled citizens.
“The musical explores the events of each assassination or attempted assassination and the motivations behind them,” says Assassins director and Civic’s Artistic Director William Sanders. “It’s certainly difficult material, which one has come to expect from the brilliant poet laureate of the musical theater, Stephen Sondheim, but it is hilarious and shocking and very moving.”
Originally produced in 1990, Assassins didn’t make it to Broadway until 2004. Interestingly, the production was supposed to be mounted at Civic in 2001, but was waylaid by sensitivity to the events of 9/11. “I think 2016 is the perfect time,” Sanders says. “That election year hyperbole permeating social media and the press highlighting such extraordinary divisiveness can only put this musical in an interesting context.”
Sanders and his design team will be recreating the specific looks of each assassin within the play’s “warped sideshow netherworld,” staging an unforgettable musical both dark and delightful. If you’re not already a Sondheim devotee, take a chance on this controversial show dealing in America’s obsession with patriotism, celebrity and violence. “I know that this production will be incredibly special,” Sanders says. “I hope the people of the area will try to figure these people out with us.”
$20-$31 | May 6-21: 7:30 p.m., May 22: 2 p.m. Civic Theatre of Allentown 527 N. 19th St., Allentown 610.432.8943 | civictheatre.com
CALENDAR 5.16
20 Hollywood Undead
For those unfamiliar with what many describe as “genre-hopping tunes,” Hollywood Undead is a metal/rap-core band from Los Angeles. Consisting of five very satirical mask-wearing members, the band has sold out countless headline shows worldwide and toured with everybody from Avenged Sevenfold to Stone Sour. Enjoy their electro-punk music that has transformed from anger-fueled lyrics in 2008 to today’s upbeat, emotionally-diverse tracks.
$23 | 8 p.m. | Sherman Theater
524 Main St., Stroudsburg
570.420.2808 | shermantheater.com
21 Rock N’ Run
This will be the fifth Rock N’ Run 4 Kids Fun Run brought to the Coca-Cola Park by the Salvation Army Children’s Services. The day will feature three different fitness runs, healthy snacks and all-time favorite team mascots from around the area. Gather your friends and family to form a team and sign up to participate; the fun run is expected to surpass the 300 participants of last year. The 5K course and the new 10K run are great for all ages, and little ones 12 and under can race around the ballpark among cheering mascots.
$15-$40 | Start Time: 7:30 a.m.
Coca-Cola Park | 1050 IronPigs Way, Allentown 610.821.7706 | rocknrun4kids.com
21 Amp Up the Art
The Forks Area Art Society brings this third annual Art in the Park event to the Easton community in order to encourage an inspirational exchange between artists of all mediums. Not only will the festival feature art and craftwork on display and available for purchase, but also a variety of entertainment like hula hoop dancing, a demonstration by Hollywood zombie makeup artist Darren Pastor and musical performances by the blues-rock band Big Bone Daddy and Wayne Scott Farley’s band, Force for Good.
Get crafty and learn something new and trendy with Kimberly Tanzos. She will instruct this
special one-day workshop for those interested in learning to “felt” a small handbag or clutch to create their own, personalized bag. Wet felting involves the process of agitating wool with warm water and soap—the fundamental method you’ll learn in order to construct your own bag.
$55 | 1-4 p.m.
Banana Factory
25 W. 3rd St., Bethlehem 610.332.1300 | bananafactory.org
26 Freddy Awards
The State Theatre presents the 14th annual Freddy Awards, an exclusive high school musical theatre awards show that recognizes outstanding accomplishments in production and performance in Lehigh, Northampton and Warren Counties. With various top-nominated musical performances throughout the ceremony, spectators will applaud students honored in various categories, and will get to see some show-stopping numbers.
Join a cast of over 200 kids in celebrating their success in the Youth Education in the Art’s Xcape dance program. The annual Straight Outta Allentown concert will be the culminating recital for these dancers—ages 6 to 22 years old— who will command your awe and admiration as they perform a medley of jazz, ballet, hip-hop and contemporary dance routines.
$12 | 1:30-4 p.m.
Scottish Rite Cathedral
1533 Hamilton St., Allentown 610.821.0345 x 142 | yea.org
Do you have an event that our readers simply must know about? Tell us about it at lehighvalleystyle.com/events. Please submit your information at least three months in advance to be considered for publication in the magazine.
Boys in the Trees by Carly Simon
Just recently published in November 2015, Simon’s long-awaited memoir recounts her notorious passage from childhood into fame. She exposes herself and her life in a way that leaves her quite vulnerable: her childhood as the third daughter of Simon & Schuster co-founder Richard L. Simon, her musical launch in the folk duo The Simon Sisters with sister Lucy, her tumultuous ascent to superstardom as a solo artist and her love life—with some of the most illustrious men of the ‘70s like David Bowie and ex-husband James Taylor. She shares some of her most celebrated successes and most intimate secrets, including the truth behind hit songs like “You’re So Vain” and “Anticipation.”
The Art Fair by David Lipsky
Joan Freeley had the ideal life as an artistic New Yorker: an art-dealing business in Manhattan, a loving family and the esteem of famous friends. Then, a divorce caused Joan’s happiness to crumble, resulting in disagreeable paintings and a career heading south—fast. Unable to see her suffer any longer, Joan’s teenage son Richard moves in with her to a one-bedroom apartment in SoHo. He realizes just how much his mother is deteriorating and devotes himself to returning her to her former art-dealing glory. Yet, he ultimately asks himself, who wants Joan to revitalize her happiness more— him or her? Immerse yourself in Lipsky’s humbling story set in the reality of New York’s art scene.
Character, Driven by David Lubar
If anyone knows how to craft a heartfelt comingof-age novel, it’s David Lubar. His newest story weaves through thoughtful teenage qualms while not missing a humorous beat. Seventeen-year-old Cliff Sparks dreadfully wants to “come of age,” which to him, ultimately means losing his virginity; yet, he’s borderline pathetic when it comes to talking to girls. At the same time, Cliff is forced to make decisions that will shape his future after high school, including what to do once his unemployed father kicks him out of the house. Let your sympathy follow Cliff throughout one of life’s inevitable journeys—the emergence into adulthood. ■ s
ON THE STREETS WITH DUSTIN SCHOOF
BY DUSTIN SCHOOF
Superheroes and comic books have been a part of my life since I was able to babble the words “Incredible Hulk;” although, according to my parents, in reality it came out sounding more like “Crebulk.” I was two years old. At least I tried. Before I continue, allow me to deflate a stereotype inadvertently perpetuated by the success of a certain sitcom. Yes, I am one of many fully functioning, adult men who enjoy reading and collecting comic books. No, neither I nor anyone else I know who shares the same hobby is “just like those guys on The Big Bang Theory.” (Seriously, who came up with “Bazinga,” anyway?)
The fuse that ignited my lifelong fascination with the art form was sparked by action figures and cartoons. I was led down the road of Saturdaymorning fantasy by reruns of the 1960s’ Batman television show and the animated adventures of Spider-Man and His Amazing Friends, Masters of the Universe and ThunderCats
The now-defunct Kenner “Super Powers” line of merchandise was an early favorite of mine as well. I had the puzzles and, of course, the toys. My bedroom became the battleground upon which Green Lantern, Aquaman, Plastic Man and Superman came to blows with the Riddler, Bob the Goon and the Joker. Often, they would need help and call in Slimer and the Ghostbusters, He-Man and ThunderCats leader Lion-O to defeat the villainous forces of Evil-Lyn and Skeletor. I considered those figures my prized possessions. Eventually, I incorporated comic books into my collection. I would beg my mother to buy an issue of Batman or Superman when she took me along on a groceries run or shopping trip. The former Dreamscape Comics location at the 25th Street shopping complex in Palmer Township became a frequent destination.
I still enjoy the thrill of thumbing through rows and rows of back issues. My tastes have shifted
and matured in that I seek out older, more valuable books and keep up with only a handful of current titles.
For the most part, I tend to keep my geekier side under the radar when it comes to meeting new people in social settings. This was especially true during my single days. I did my best to avoid conversations that went something like this: “Oh, so you’re a lawyer? That’s really great. How about that new issue of Howard the Duck? It’s hilarious!” Cut to: blank stare, awkward silence and finishing my drink alone.
The one place where I do feel comfortable letting my geek flag fly is Comic Con. Attending New York Comic Con—which I have done since 2008—has become a yearly ritual for me, my (very tolerant and patient) girlfriend, Lynn, and a handful of close friends. None of us show up in costume. Comfy and casual is the name of the game: zip-up hoodie, T-shirt, shorts and sneakers, although there are those who play into the stereotype that has been cultivated by television and film.
Comic book conventions are fun and a great way to spend an afternoon with the family. Most conventions strike a balance by offering something for all attendees—whether you are a serious, longtime collector or a parent with children in tow.
One such local convention is the Phillipsburg Comic-Con, which returns to Phillipsburg High School on May 14. The guest list includes professional comic book artist Rags Morales, best known for his work on DC books such as Identity Crisis, Hawkman and Nightwing, and fashion/cosplay designer Pamela Ptak. (Ptak, a former Project Runway contestant, runs the Arts & Fashion Institute in Riegelsville with her husband, comic book inker Scott Hanna.)
Admission to the convention costs $5. There is no charge for children ages 10 and under if they are accompanied by a paid adult. This year, 75 percent of proceeds will benefit the organization Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN), which provides help to victims of rape and sexual abuse. Twenty-five percent of proceeds will go toward educational programming at Phillipsburg High School and purchasing books for the school’s comic book electives.
I attended the inaugural 2015 convention and highly recommend you do the same.
Oh, and one more thing. Please, take it from me, leave the spandex at home.
phillipsburgcomiccon.com ■ s
LIFE IN THE VALLEY
NOTES & QUOTES
Allentown Welcomes a Valley Tradition
VINCE’S CHEESESTEAKS
After relocating around the Valley from a double drive-through restaurant at 15th and Allen Streets in Allentown to a thriving food truck stand today, the famous “cheesesteak place” returns to downtown Allentown at the new and prospering City Center. Its current co-owners, Chris and Vince Cocca, decided to follow the trends in the Valley, which led them to their now-booming hometown; they’re bringing tradition back with them, but now as a Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture “Preferred” business with locally-sourced produce and a myriad of awards under their belts. Replacing the space formerly occupied by Tony Luke’s, Vince’s Cheesesteaks aims to serve a combination of all-time favorites as well as new, fresh creations like its many varieties of cheesesteaks along with hamburgers, hot wings, pierogies and fries.
806 Hamilton St., Allentown | 610.395.6500 | thecheesesteakplacepa.com
150 Years of Supporting the Valley PBS39’S THE SALVATION ARMY LEGACY
The Salvation Army is “the most effective organization in the United States,” says the late Peter Drucker, an author of over 39 books on modern corporate management philosophy. Josh Early Candies is the presenting underwriter of PBS39’s The Salvation Army Legacy, and its president and co-owner in South Whitehall Township, Barry Dobil Jr., says, “Seeing first-hand how the Salvation Army manages their stores, I agree.” Throughout May, see exactly how this organization’s “effectiveness” has made local impressions. WLVT PBS39 will premiere The Salvation Army Legacy on Tuesday, May 10 at 7 p.m. to celebrate National Salvation Army Week. Viewers will experience “an original production featuring the organization’s 150 years of service and its local impact in the Greater Lehigh Valley,” says Executive Producer Laura McHugh. “We hope The Salvation Army Legacy shines a spotlight on [the] services and ways that viewers can get involved.” The documentary will repeat Sunday, May 15 at 11 a.m. and 5 p.m.
Embracing Local Goods EASTON
PUBLIC MARKET
Motivated to advance the trend of the Greater Easton Development Partnership, the Easton Public Market intends to serve the downtown community as a center marketplace. “It’s a modern take on the historical concept of a public market,” says Jared Mast, interim executive director of the development partnership. Its mission is to support local vendors, producers and farmers, as well the larger community itself by providing a gathering space: a locally driven, culinary hub all in a newly renovated building with modern amenities. In order to create a public space that appeals to Easton’s customer base, Megan McBride, the market district director, knew that it was important to integrate organic and locally sourced selections. She says, “I love being able to expand accessibility to farm-fresh [products] and to offer local farmers and food producers an outlet to sell their products.” Expect to see locally distinguished vendors such as Dundore and Heister Butchery, Olive with a Twist and the Highmark Farmstand, as well as a variety of ready-to-eat concepts like More Than Q Texas barbecue and Mister Lee’s Noodles from the owners of Bolete.
Have you recently had a standout dish or cocktail that deserves to be featured? Spill the details! Is there a local retail shop our readers simply must know about? Do you know a great subject for our Insight interviewbased column? Tell us!
editor@lehighvalleystyle.com
Photo courtesy of Megan McBride
VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT
Mike Axiotis LEUKEMIA & LYMPHOMA SOCIETY
In 2005, an 18-month-old boy, Shayne, was battling t-cell acute lymphocytic leukemia. After over 40 months of chemotherapy, blood transfusions and several surgeries, he is now an active, fourth-grade honors student in healthy remission. Thanks to the money raised by the Leukemia and Lymphoma
Society’s National Teams, the necessary patient support and research for treatments have been able to save the lives of blood cancer patients just like Shayne. Locally, one of the most prominent fundraisers is Team Red Robin of the Lehigh Valley Restaurant Group—and at the head of the movement is Mike Axiotis, Executive Vice President of Operations and newly dubbed chair of a campaign that has raised more than $17.2 million last year in support of the fight against blood cancers.
Mike Axiotis hopes that, as the 2016 Light The Night Walk Chair, he will be successful in bringing together his large network with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS) to increase prospects and expand the Lehigh Valley’s Light The Night campaign. Axiotis and his Red Robin team have been fundraising for the Night Walk since 2010, when the franchise’s founder and former CEO, Steve Hanzlik, passed away from leukemia. Today, Axiotis aims to volunteer his efforts and uphold steady participation and contributions to this evening walk on September 25, at The Promenade Shops at Saucon Valley, which serves as a tremendous fundraising opportunity and a tribute to the thousands of people battling blood cancers. What’s more is that the Lehigh Valley Restaurant Group’s Red Robin is this year’s Night Walk presenting sponsor.
Axiotis has demonstrated an unceasing philanthropic agenda since 2001, when he began donating and cooking for the Muscular Dystrophy Association breakfast held every year at the Tilghman Square Red Robin. He and his Red Robin team have also been raising funds for the MDA over the past six years—amassing over
CITY NEW JERSEY
Photo by Kris Hilliard
$200,000. More personally, Axiotis has cooked and served hot, baked potato soup to thousands of participants in the Woman’s 5K Classic for over 15 years.
For the LLS, he has participated in multiple Light The Night Walk events throughout EasternCentral Pennsylvania and has inspired team members to help raise over $350,000. As this year’s chair, he says, “I am committed to executing a flawless event and beating last year’s fundraising goals.” He pledges to commit himself to continue being a champion for the team, but more importantly, Axiotis says he is looking forward to giving back to those who need it most. He affirms, “It’s such a wonderful feeling to see progress that’s being made and hearing all of the success stories, as well as making a positive difference in other people’s lives whom you don’t even know.”
The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society 1525 Valley Center Parkway, Suite 180, Bethlehem 610.266.8513 | lls.org/eastern-pennsylvania
Check out The PEAK TV video of Mike Axiotis at lehighvalleystyle.com.
Stoke
COAL FIRE PIZZA & BAR
One of Downtown Easton’s newest dining experiences, located between Mothers Bar & Grille and Pearly Baker’s Ale House, can be described as an “adult pizzeria,” according to Melissa Lozada, co-manager of Stoke Coal Fire Pizza & Bar. With handpicked wines, 16 draft beers—several imported from Italy—and unique, signature cocktails, she hopes the restaurant will be a mix between your “local living room” and a five-star pizza place. Apart from its assortment of top-notch spirits, Stoke also offers a sophisticated take on traditional pizza shop options—“Like grandma does, but with a twist and at an affordable price,” Lozada says—including gourmet wings, meatballs, Italian entrees, salads, paninis, various small plates, desserts and, of course, 12-inch specialty pizzas straight out of Stoke’s 5,000-pound, coal-fired pizza oven. Executive Chef Abe Lopez’s favorite dish is the thin-crust margherita pizza. The spacious, 90-seat restaurant comprises a rustic, chic vibe with newspaper-covered columns, brick
NEW IN TOWN
walls, urbane light fixtures, hardwood flooring and the mouthwatering aroma of fresh ingredients.
“Whether you are on a date, out with a colleague or just want to bump elbows with some downtown locals, you will feel welcomed, comfortable and relaxed,” says Lozada. Stoke invites you to stop by for a drink, a slice or an entrée at a time that’s most convenient for you.
No need to cover up! Clinically tested, safe treatment
Photo courtesy of Stoke Coal Fire Pizza & Bar
RACHEL Rachel Roy white collared shirt
$89, Macy’s
FASHION & BEAUTY
ADVICE | TRENDS | FINDS
Chambray scarf
$22, L Studio Boutique
You’re in luck. Looking polished and put together can still be accomplished with a simple pair of jeans by adding this season’s favorite white collared shirt. A pop of color from a scarf and a slide-on mule will take your outfit to the next level without feeling like you’re trying too hard. Q: A:
botkier NEW YORK
Trigger mini satchel
$198, BOUTIQUETOGO
Denim & Supply
Ralph Lauren
cropped skinny jean
$89.50, Macy’s
Studio Boutique
$109, Macy’s
| europeanconceptsalon.com
Lehigh Valley Mall | macys.com
Calvin Klein Cice
slide-on mules
Old classics never looked better than when worn together. Throw on sneakers and a statement necklace and you’re ready for anything.
FASHION & BEAUTY Gingham & STRIPES
Lancaster Paris quilted crossbody
$160, BOUTIQUETOGO
Denim & Supply
Ralph Lauren
gingham collared shirt
$69.50, Macy’s
Maison Jules
Oxford Tan chinos
$49.50, Macy’s
Material Girl Everet high-top sneakers
$69.50, Macy’s
Maison Jules skinny striped shirt
$39.50, Macy’s
Leather and diamond necklace
$35, L Studio Boutique
FASHION & BEAUTY
PHOTO BY COLIN COLEMAN
Let There Be Light
The newest beauty trend goes by many names, but whether you call it strobing, highlighting or illuminating, it’s all about getting that flawless summer glow. Sweep it over your cheekbones, your brow bone, the bridge of your nose, the center of your forehead, your chin and your Cupid’s bow (the indent above your top lip), and your skin will glimmer regardless of the weather forecast.
Yves Saint Laurent Touche Eclat Radiant Touch $42, Sephora
FASHION & BEAUTY
Style Beauty INSIDER
BY DAISY WILLIS
PHOTOS BY COLIN COLEMAN
Patrick McIvor Owner of 101 E. Center Salon
PATRICK MCIVOR
Owner of 101 E. Center Salon Nazareth
What’s a hair color trend you’re excited about?
I love hair painting. It creates beautiful texture and movement, while being hair color that you want to do again but never have to do, because it always grows out naturally.
What’s a hair product every woman should have in her arsenal?
Today’s dirty little secret is second-day hair. Products like dry shampoos and conditioners can re-texturize and refresh hair, making a second or even third day better.
bring your phone with a couple gigs of empty space and our team can record your finish so you know exactly how to style your hair at home.
What’s a hairstyle or color trend you wish would die out?
The great thing about hair right now is that, when well done, no trend is dominant in a way that it’s tired. If I could call one thing a trend I wish would go away, it’s people trying a look without realizing the maintenance: the thought that color comes first and the hair comes second, because eventually the hair loses.
Who’s your hairstyle icon at the moment?
My hairstyle icon right now is more of a texture than a person or haircut. Tousled hair is the style icon. Long hair, short hair, lobs and bobs—if it’s cool, it’s tousled.
How did you decide to specialize in color?
At my first salon in Princeton, NJ, my business was about 50 percent cutting and 50 percent hair color. When Allure magazine named me one of the Best Colorists in 1996, I started to get a lot more color requests. In 1998, I worked in NYC as the Color Director for Arrojo Cutler, then owned by Nick Arrojo from What Not To Wear and Rodney Cutler who leads shows at NYC Fashion Week. When you’re working with them, you don’t need to be cutting hair. Since then, I’ve been exclusively coloring, though I’ve begun cutting again. My specialty, and what I still do exclusively when I’m working at ARROJO in downtown NYC, is hair color.
Can you give us a quick tip for taking care of hair at home?
How high-tech is your hairstyling?
From our active Pinterest inspiration boards to using apps that can capture and illustrate pictures of the guest’s hair, we use technology to show our clients their wealth of options. If you ever wished your hairdresser could come home with you, just
Professional hair care at almost all salons is guaranteed or you can return the product, and truthfully, products make all the difference. So if you’re worried it won’t work or you won’t like it, you can bring it back to the salon. If you are worried about the expense, most professional products are concentrated so you can use less, saving more and not complaining about the drugstore products that didn’t work.
101 E. Center St., Nazareth
610.759.3593 | patrickmcivor.com ■ s
In my arsenal: products make ALL the difference most professional products are concentrated so you can use less
Move over kale, there is a whole host of superfoods rising to the forefront with promises of increased vitality, impact on hormone balance, improved immune function, detoxification and cardiovascular and metabolic aids. With so many, the challenge can often be distinguishing between them and understanding their particular benefits. Here are some popular superfoods, clarified.
LIVING WELL
1
The Maca and Matcha
While these two sound very similar, maca is a root from the South American Andes and matcha is a highly prized green tea. Both contain unique benefits to consider incorporating into your superfood mix.
Unlike conventional green tea leaves that are steeped and discarded, matcha leaves are ground into a fine powder and consumed. Because matcha is shade grown, the delicate leaves have a higher concentration of antioxidants. Matcha also contains more chlorophyll than conventional green tea, improving the detoxification capacity for the body and giving it its vibrant green color. Matcha has an impressive amount of polyphenols, which are critical micronutrients that help prevent degenerative diseases. In particular, matcha has a high level of EGCG, which studies show may have important chemopreventive, anticancer activity. There are higher levels of caffeine in matcha than regular green tea, but because it also contains amino acids, there may be a slower absorption, helping prevent a caffeine crash.
Matcha is incredibly versatile and can be easily added into smoothies, baked items, savory dishes or consumed as conventional tea. It is a simple way to add a little antioxidant punch to your pancake.
Matcha drinks have become available in coffee houses and retail outlets, but they are often loaded with sugars and milk, negating any health benefits. Matcha is incredibly versatile and can be easily added into smoothies, baked items, savory dishes or consumed as conventional tea. It is a simple way to add a little antioxidant punch to your pancake.
Maca on the other hand is a member of the cruciferous family whose root is boiled or ground into a powder. Unlike matcha, it does not contain caffeine, but is still considered a stimulant. Its exact mechanism for increased energy is not fully understood but may be related to helping the body stabilize blood sugar levels, thereby keeping energy consistent throughout the day. Maca is high in Vitamins B6 and C as well as critical minerals including calcium, zinc and iron. Traditionally, maca has been eaten for increased libido and sexual function, but some studies are finding it may also be beneficial for pre- and postmenopausal symptoms. Its greatest asset
may be as an adaptogen. Adaptogens are natural products that help the body adapt to stress and normalize body processes. Though consumed for thousands of years in South America, those who are pregnant, nursing, on hormone-altering medications or receiving breast or prostate cancer treatment should check with their doctor first, since maca may impact hormone levels.
Maca as a root vegetable is cooked, but powder forms are often incorporated into smoothies.
2
Algae (Chlorella and Spirulina)
With just water and sunlight, these organisms are all powerhouses in their own right.
Chlorella is a single-celled algae rich in B vitamins and minerals and amino acids. Chlorella is composed of nearly 7 percent chlorophyll, which contributes to its detoxifying properties. Its most significant benefit may be in helping remove heavy metals from the body. We are consistently exposed to heavy metals through consumer products, contaminated soils, fish and water, and it is difficult for the body to remove them on its own, so chlorella may be a helpful tool. Since chlorella does have a strong capability of removing heavy metals, ensuring clean sourcing of chlorella is essential. Chlorella typically comes in tablet or powder form.
Spirulina is also rich in vitamins and minerals, but compared to chlorella, it is higher in amino acids, which are the protein building blocks for the body. Along with amino acid content, spirulina may help boost the immune system and help prevent allergic reactions. Typically, spirulina comes in powder form and can be added to drinks and smoothies.
Whether looking for detoxification properties from chlorella or adding some amino acids and an immune boost from spirulina, periodic incorpora tion of these algae may offer benefits. There have been limited studies on both of these; as with any supplement, consult with your health professional before incorporating into your diet.
A Fresh Approach to Dining
Tap Room
1741 on the Terrace Fresh New Menu
Entertainment Friday & Saturday Night Enjoy
Say Happy Mother’s Day with
3 Seaweed (Kelp vs. Kale)
Seaweed—aka “sea vegetables” including kelp, nori and kombu—is a great source of vitamins and minerals, especially B12, iron and iodine. Vitamin B12 is key in cell metabolism and brain function and is typically found only in animal products. Vegetarian or flexitarian diets could benefit from including sea vegetables to ensure adequate intake of key vitamins and minerals like B12 and iron, often difficult to obtain otherwise. Seaweed also exhibits antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, unlike kale, sea vegetables contain iodine. Adequate levels of iodine are important for healthy thyroid function and metabolism.
Probably the most familiar way to incorporate sea vegetables is eating seaweed salads and sushi. There are also dried forms of kelp or kelp salts that can be simply shaken on foods to increase your intake. Kombu can be included when cooking beans to increase nutrition density with the added benefit of reducing the flatulence often experienced with beans.
Based on your particular needs, the intermittent incorporation of some of these superfoods may provide boosts to your diet and health. However, nothing makes up for poor eating choices. Superfoods are “super” when combined with a high-quality, nutrient-dense diet rich in vegetables and clean proteins.
SUPERDISHES IN THE VALLEY
“WA-FU” MARINATED FRIED CHICKEN
With curry and matcha salt
FRIED CALAMARI
With matcha salt, wasabi aioli and spicy miso
Komé Fine Japanese Cuisine
Promenade Shops at Saucon Valley 610.798.9888 | komerestaurant.com
CHOCOLATE PRANA SMOOTHIE
With raw cacao, banana, almond butter, maca, hemp hearts, cinnamon, vanilla, cayenne, coconut oil and coconut water
THIN MINT SMOOTHIE
With spirulina, raw cacao nibs, banana, maca, hemp hearts, date, peppermint oil and cashew milk
DETOXIFY SALAD
With shaved kale and red cabbage, raisins, “superseed” mix of flax, hemp and sunflower then topped with sliced apples and avocado in creamy cashew dressing
With an Italy-inspired miso soup, a sweet potato spring roll salad served with toasted sesame dressing and a five-spice garlic peanut seitan served over brown basmati rice and finished with sake, sriracha and a sprinkling of roasted seaweed
Shankara Vegan Restaurant
201 E. 3rd St., Bethlehem 484.330.6405 | balasia.net
SEAWEED SALAD
With mixed sea vegetables, soy sauce, ginger and sesame
MISO SOUP
With soybean paste, tofu, seaweed and scallions
One Third 3022 Linden St. Unit 1, Bethlehem 610.867.1313 | onethirdasiancuisine.net
A variety of real-fruit smoothies is available as “super smoothies,” such as the peach, banana and mango smoothie with maca and coconut, or the açaí and gogi berry smoothie with spirulina powder and maca.
Terra Café
321 Northampton
TAKE
BY PATTIE GIORDANI
Learn about history and culture at an Amish farm, have family fun at an amusement park, sip award-winning craft beers and enjoy everything else the rolling green landscape of Pennsylvania Dutch country has to offer.
1
NORTH MUSEUM OF NATURE AND SCIENCE
68 MILES (from Allentown)
1.5 HOURS (from Allentown)
Founded in 1953 by Franklin & Marshall College, the North Museum has been introducing science enthusiasts of all ages to nature, science and cultures. Explore the past, present and future all in one place! Travel back in time in the “Explore the Past” Dinosaur Gallery. Venture into the Explore Nature Gallery, with fossils and minerals from the region, plus the Live Animal Room, which has a glass-walled honeybee hive and hands-on activities. Then take a trip into the future inside the SciDome Theater, an immersive planetarium to experience a show, such as Secret of the Cardboard Rocket, Black Holes: The Other Side of Infinity or Cosmic Journeys. Biology, paleontology, geology and anthropology are all represented in the museum’s extensive scientific collections.
400 College Ave. | 717.291.3941 | northmuseum.org
2
DJ’S TASTE OF THE 50s
For a fun dining experience from an era not too far back in time, check out DJ’s Taste of the 50s, just outside of Lancaster proper on Route 340. Step into the ‘50s wearing rolled-up jeans and bobby socks—or a more modern outfit—to enjoy traditional diner food done right! Burgers, fries and shakes share the menu with more up-to-date fare such as mozzarella sticks and deep-fried green beans. Along with the Elvis— peanut butter, banana and honey on grilled Texas toast—offerings include sandwiches, melts, wraps, soups and salads. Interested in classic rides such as the ’57 Chevy? Check out the website for upcoming car cruise dates.
2410 Old Philadelphia Pike | 717.509.5050 | djstasteofthe50s.com
3 THE AMISH VILLAGE
Immerse yourself in the local way of life and take a look at what it means to be Amish in Lancaster County. The Amish Village’s 12 acres offer a look at the 18th-century culture that still exists, including an authentic Amish farmhouse (dating back to 1840), a one-room schoolhouse, a blacksmith shop and more. Here you will learn about Amish history as well as their religious beliefs. There are various tours to choose from, including a farmhouse and village tour or a bus tour. After the tour, you can explore the grounds on your own and find out more about what interests you the most, such as the windmill and water wheel that are currently used at most Amish farms today.
Why not take some Pennsylvania Dutch food home with you? A great place to find local food, whether to eat there or take home, is this historic market, the country’s oldest farmers’ market building. Lancaster Central Market offers locally grown produce, fresh baked goods and local delicacies, such as homemade relishes and chow-chow, which is a sweet and sour mixture of chopped vegetables and spices, usually eaten as a side dish or used as a condiment. In addition, there are a number of vendors selling crafts, collectibles and home décor. Be sure to plan for your visit: Lancaster Central Market is only open 6 a.m.-4 p.m., Tuesdays and Fridays; and 6 a.m.-2 p.m., Saturdays.
23 N. Market St. | 717.735.6890
centralmarketlancaster.com
Top Notch Accessories
4 DUTCH WONDERLAND
Kids and adults alike will enjoy this amusement park, voted one of the Top 5 Best Kids’ Parks in the World by Amusement Today magazine. Dutch Wonderland is geared toward younger kids, so they can ride almost everything. Nicely landscaped and clean, there are lots of age-appropriate bathrooms (i.e. little potties) and a baby care station. If it’s too hot and you want to cool off, go see the high-dive show and sit down in front—you might get splashed! There are picnic pavilions so you can pack your own lunch if you want to avoid the expense of buying food at the concession stands. But remember, it’s one of the few places outside of the Disney Parks that sells the popular frozen treat Dole Whip®!
6
LANCASTER BREWING CO.
When it’s time to eat and drink, check out Lancaster Brewing, which offers Lancaster’s first commercially brewed beer in nearly 40 years. Located in a historic warehouse, visitors can tour the brewery Saturdays and Sundays at 3 p.m. (and Monday through Friday at 1 p.m., by appointment). Get an up-close view of the brewing process of beers like Hop Buggy Amish Grain Amber Ale, which incorporates locally grown Amish oats, wheat and rye from Lancaster County. Other beers include Milk Stout, Hop Hog IPA, Strawberry Wheat and Lancaster Lager. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner, and their happy hour (Monday through Friday) offers specials on food and beverages. Not only does Lancaster Brewing use locally sourced ingredients, it also supports local community organizations.
302 N. Plum St. | 717.391.6258 lancasterbrewing.com ■ s
THE VALLEY’S MOST INTRIGUING INSIGHT
Jessie Gu Kiuchi
OWNER AND FOUNDER OF MOMO BABY, MOMO MATERNITY AND LUXURY LANE
BY STACEY SOLT PHOTOGRAPHY BY COLIN COLEMAN
If you’ve searched for high-end baby or maternity products, you’ve likely heard of Momo Baby and Momo Maternity. What you might not realize is that those cute sandals, sneakers and maternity outfits featured in FitPregnancy and Pregnancy & Newborn are designed and shipped from Bethlehem and Easton.
The thriving Lehigh Valley business was founded in 2008 by Jessie Gu Kiuchi and her husband, Ko, in their Easton home. Like many small businesses, Momo Baby and Momo Maternity were created to fit a growing need in the founders’ lives: first the need to outfit their growing family, and then a desire for stylish, high-end maternity clothing.
CATERING TO MOMS AND CHILDREN
The husband-and-wife team began Momo Baby’s parent company, Luxury Lane, from their Easton home in 2006. The high-end clothing company has grown to offer apparel and accessories for women, men and children.
In 2007, Gu Kiuchi noticed a growing concern over the use of BPA, a chemical used to harden plastic, in plastic baby bottles. She responded by launching a line of glass baby bottles which would eventually become Momo Baby’s first product. (The name “Momo” is borrowed from Gu Kiuchi’s first dog and means “peach” in Japanese.)
As parents returned to plastic bottles with the advent of BPA-free products, she continued to adjust and adapt to rapidly changing demands. Within a year, Gu Kiuchi would begin to experiment with baby shoes and launch Momo Baby’s baby shoe line.
...one person will create the basic shape, while the groupwill make decisions about color and details.
“I started doing the ‘first walker’ shoes,” she says. These shoes were targeted towards infants and nearly-toddlers taking their first steps and learning to walk. After doing extensive research on shoe fit and comfort, she settled on a shoe made with 100 percent leather for breathability. “That was pretty successful,” says Gu Kiuchi, who soon expanded to include toddler sneakers and sandals. Her combined companies would eventually grow large enough to purchase a warehouse in Easton and hire additional employees.
While infant and toddler shoes quickly became the main focus of Momo Baby, a small baby boom would bring inspiration to the business’ designers.
When Gu Kiuchi hired her first assistant in 2011, she would soon learn that her new assistant was expecting a child. “Since she was pregnant, I started doing the maternity line to sort of inspire her,” she says. The company began offering fresh, stylish designs for moms-to-be that year.
The company has grown from that first hiring to include two merchandise assistants and a graphic designer, plus additional warehouse, customer service and marketing specialists, but Gu Kiuchi’s desire to get the entire team involved in each new product hasn’t changed. The result is a fashion line that has a coherent sense of chic, yet aims to please different individuals’ style.
“What I like to do, which is probably different from other companies, is to involve all of the girls when we design things,” she says, adding that perhaps one person will create the basic shape, while the group will make decisions about color and details. “When the style comes out, everyone becomes very excited.”
A GROWING BUSINESS—AND FAMILY
Like most of Momo Baby’s lines, Gu Kiuchi and her team continue to be inspired by and grow the business in a way that reflects their personal growth. In 2012, innovation would again come out of need. Gu Kiuchi was pregnant with her second child and planning a trip to Japan to visit relatives, but she was having a difficult time finding a coat that was warm enough for traveling and still fashionable.
“It was in January, and it was really cold,” she says. Gu Kiuchi purchased a polyester-filled coat for the trip at a local maternity store.
“It was very ugly, and I couldn’t find any wool coats,” she says. “I decided to try to design a swing coat.”
Gu Kiuchi would work with her manufacturing company to create a prototype swing coat. The first prototype was created in size petite medium to fit Gu Kiuchi. This coat, a pleated wool-blend coat that can be worn both during and after pregnancy, would become known as the “Jessie” and is still available for purchase through Momo Maternity.
Emeril’s Fish House is Chef Emeril Lagasse’s newest restaurant at Sands Bethlehem. Featuring an amazing assortment of seafood, steaks and chops with a Creole flair, there is truly something for everyone. You’ll find everything from daily raw bar selections, to little plates, to lobster tails and decadent steaks.
Do the Bright Thing...
Summer Study
Momo Maternity first offered wool outerwear options because wool is easier to design and produce. The company eventually expanded to include lightweight and down maternity coats.
In addition to inspiring many of Momo Maternity’s product lines, Gu Kiuchi’s children have also driven her to continue research and efforts towards creating the ideal children’s shoe—a shoe that supports constant motion and rapid growth. When her first child was born in 2010, she was frustrated by the quality of children’s shoes available in most local stores. They were inexpensive and quick to wear out but also seemed uncomfortable. She noted that her child’s feet were very sweaty, in part because most children’s shoes are not made of breathable materials.
“I started studying how a kid’s feet grow, compared to an adult’s feet. That’s how I started changing the shape of the shoe to make it more comfortable,” she says, adding that her personal design focus is on the interior and sole of the shoe. She collaborates with outside designers and an on-site graphic designer to complete the look and feel of the shoe.
“It took a while for me to adjust everything,” she says. “For example, you need to be careful of the insole. There are some shoes that if you put your foot inside, it’s very hard.” The Momo Baby line uses special materials to cushion the inside of the shoe that are soft enough for comfort but firm enough to support a growing child’s stride. The shoe’s exterior must also be free of chemicals that are unsafe for a toddler’s mouth—because so many children like to put their feet in their mouth, adds Gu Kiuchi.
The research and adjustments have paid off.
The Easton-based business is expanding, having recently added a warehouse in Bethlehem to keep up with demand. The brand will also be available for sale soon at Nordstrom under the name “Kimi and Kai,” chosen to honor Gu Kiuchi’s two children.
“I think it’s great, that you have something like this coming from our area,” she says. “It’s also pretty cool. I can see my kids wearing a shoe that I designed.”
ASK THE EXPERT
QUICK TIPS FROM A LOCAL SPECIALIST
Reclaimed Furniture
BY DAISY WILLIS
With the high price of new furniture and the wealth of beautiful orphaned pieces out there looking for homes, today’s DIY-minded homemakers are saving money by decorating with reclaimed furniture. Interior Designer Lynda Somach of Allentown gave us a few tips, and inspiration for making reclaiming a reality.
ASK THE EXPERT
Who
be the next Man & Woman of the Year?
Lynda Somach
Interior Designer
Lynda Somach ASID
1 Where to Look
Antique stores and estate sales are great places to find awesome furniture, but don’t overlook places like Goodwill, Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore or even the stuff ditched on a curb. Rago Art & Auction Center in Lambertville and Material Culture Auction House in Manayunk offer forays into the world of bidding for unique furniture finds, something you may find more exciting than you think!
2 How to Look
Have an idea of the type of furniture you’re looking for, the size you need and what kind of color or finish you’re hoping to achieve with it. Take some time to get educated on the signs of quality furniture, and quiz the person you’re buying from about whether a piece can be painted, stripped or has the good bones to sustain reupholstering. A rickety table may find new life with just a little gluing up, but be careful not to throw good money at junky pieces.
3 Ask for Help
If you don’t trust yourself to know the difference, many designers are actually willing to help out as consultants and save you from making a costly mistake. You can either hire one to accompany you on trips to antique stores, auctions, resales, etc., or send pictures as you’re shopping for a quick expert evaluation. Designers are often thrilled to be reclaiming hidden treasures, and they can also offer advice on color, finish and other alterations to make a piece fit best within a room and your style.
4 Use Your Resources
Our expert didn’t go into the fine details of stripping and painting a classy old desk, and why not? Because there are so many resources online for every possible DIY project you can imagine. Seeing a need to whitewash the bricks of an old fireplace, Somach simply went online and learned how.
In step-by-step videos you can find the secrets to refurbishing furniture of all different materials in all kinds of ways. Home Depot even offers free
Lisa Pektor PennCap Properties John Zannakis Fulton Financial Advisors
Chrissy Hixson Capital Blue Cross Sharon Geruolo BB&T Kevin Greene Lehigh Valley Faces
Vanessa Shaw Student Jason Cort Quadrant Private Wealth
Obe Roundtree Fullcircle Training Alyssa Keyser Revolt Hair Studios
Thomas Williams, Jr. Cityline Construction
Mary Figura Panther Valley School District
Sean Hieter Robert Graham Designs
weekly workshops on a variety of topics. If you’re fixated on fixing something up, the way to do it is at your fingertips.
5 Find Your Flair
You may be able to learn online how to paint or stain a particular kind of wood (and even Formica), but not what color will look best with your existing décor. Small pieces that are easy to repaint, like a side table, are a great place to try funky colors, while bigger pieces gain longevity in classic tones.
Don’t be afraid to mix the old and the new, play with colors and even reinvent a piece of furniture. The important thing is to make it your own, experiment and tinker. An old piece can get a modern update with new hardware and a fresh paint color. And if animal print is your thing, go for it!
6 Reinvent
Depending on your level of skill and ambition, some strategies for sprucing up an old piece of furniture may require the work of a professional. Most people aren’t up to the hard task of reupholstering, but with some upholsterers hanging on to leftover material from past jobs, it may not break the bank to have it done.
Another furniture hack, if you will, is to convert a nice cabinet or dresser into your next bathroom vanity. Just cut holes for the plumbing and slap a counter on top, and voila. If you’re tired of your kitchen, consider replacing just the cabinet doors and repainting for a low-cost update.
7Accessorize
Designers will tell you that switching up accessories is a great way to change your environment, and there’s no reason those accessories can’t be reclaimed, too. It’s a low-risk area of design for daring choices. Don’t be afraid to make a mistake.
One way to mix a love of shopping with personalized décor is by developing a collection, be it teapots or ceramics. Making a point of picking up something local to any area you travel to is a sure way to have a home full of meaningful objects with stories attached.
Rugs with large patterns or graphics on them have been in for a while, but oriental rugs will never go out of style, and you can often find old ones for a good price right now. They were built to last, clean up easily, hide a multitude of spills and dirt and a lot of them are just plain gorgeous.
Uncovering the Valley’s Most
UNIQUE SPACES
If you could design the most extravagant addition for your current home, what would it be? The Valley’s seen it all, from indoor ice rinks and built-in movie theaters to tricked-out garages and more. While creating a room that is both noteworthy and practical can be a challenge, these two spaces manage to do exactly that. Want to enjoy a daiquiri after a quick dip in the pool or break a sweat in your own personal gym? Step inside.
One could take a week’s vacation at this stunning poolside oasis. The pool house goes beyond accommodating guests, as it includes a full bath and changing area along with a large bar and plenty of room for entertaining. The owners wanted an outdoor kitchen as well as a covered outdoor space for gathering by the poolside. The exterior of the house was finished using cement board-and-batten with cultured stone. Two pairs of large sliding barn doors, a copper barrel roof and copper gooseneck barn lights were the finishing touches on this retreat, giving it a rustic feel.
Photo by Dan McKinney
SPACES
NAPA VALLEY
LIVING
IN CENTER VALLEY
What began as an unfinished, typical new construction basement with concrete floors, minimal sheetrock walls, 4-inch-diameter columns and an unfinished ceiling, was meticulously transformed into the ultimate destination for lounging, entertaining, exercising and everything in between.
The new space includes a comfortable gathering area with a television and surround sound, a kitchenette and an exercise area. The goal of the project was to provide a Napa-style living space for the owners to entertain and appreciate the wine cellar they had recently created for themselves. In an effort to keep the basement as open as possible, hollowed-out authentic wooden beams were used to organize the sections of the space. The wood that was chosen creates warmth, visual interest and sets an old-world vibe. The stone that wraps the walls of the new cellar and a second stairwell and exterior wall was the inspiration for the entire interior color scheme and furnishings of the project. The grays, greens and pops of red and yellow create an embracing and eclectic entertaining space.
The combination of natural, rough-hewn building materials with elegant, modern furnishings, timeless architectural details and vivid colors creates an inviting, comfortable and Northern California way of enjoying time with friends and tasting some very fine wine.
Interiors,
Photos by Wendy Benedict Photography
T HE MOYER-M ETZGER M ANSE
A Portrait of Reviv al
Built c.1903, Located on Allentown's Original "Mansion Row"
In this year’s Show House, the Society of the Arts (SOTA) wanted to celebrate the renaissance of downtown Allentown while paying homage to the home’s previous incarnation as the Ralph Metzger Photography Studio. Built in 1903 on Hamilton Street, then known as “Mansion Row,” the Shingle-style house is now a single-family home that is being restored to its former glory by top local interior designers and landscapers.
The architectural details are stunning: French doors with intricate arched mullions, fluted wooden door jambs, an elaborate terrazzo and tile floor, ornate plaster moldings, built-in window seats, dazzling stained-glass windows and a grand staircase that provided the backdrop to many a wedding photo.
The interior designers are recreating the age of elegance when the home was at the center of Allentown’s social scene, while at the same time keeping the comfort and livability favored by the current owners. The landscapers are reviving a city garden while creating a private urban oasis.
You are welcome to wander through two stories of the home, including the living room, dining room, library, sunroom, kitchen, butler’s pantry, bedrooms and a sewing room. Outside you will enjoy a backyard retreat, a courtyard, a wall corridor garden and a bird sanctuary.
Proceeds benefit the Allentown Art Museum of the Lehigh Valley education programs, the SOTA Education Endowment and the SOTA Print Fund.
“The Moyer-Metzger Manse” is not handicapped accessible. Children under the age of 10, cameras, video equipment and spiked heels are not permitted.
Diane Albright
All Bright Ideas / ShelfGenie KITCHEN STORAGE
“Base kitchen cabinets will be transformed by ShelfGenie full-extension pullout shelves. No space is wasted under the sink and in the blind corner by installing unique solutions with pullout shelving.”
Kelly Dunn
Kelly Dunn Home SEWING ROOM
“An artist’s studio was my inspiration. Ideas and intrigue hung on the walls and piled in every corner: tools right at your fingertips to bring to life your creativity.”
Stacey E. Nash
Parkland Nurseries, Inc. BACKYARD RETREAT
“Designed to embrace the beauty of mature trees in the rear yard. Passive spaces, such as this one, are necessary in our hectic lifestyles.”
Nora Oswald
Oswald Paint and Paper WILLIAM MORRIS TAPESTRY BATHROOMS
“The inspiration for the hand-painted murals in these rooms was taken from William Morris’s late Victorian tapestries.”
Dolores Baker
Decorating Den WENDY’S ROOM
“The lovely large triple window and window seat in this room provided my initial inspiration to recreate the nursery from which Wendy, Little John, and Michael escaped with Peter Pan.”
Quentin Eshelman
Beautiful Home by Quentin Eshelman MASTER RETREAT
“The amazing architecture and scale of this room called for me to create a fabulous suite that beckons you to respite and retreat.”
Carrie Oesmann
Bailiwick Interior Design LIBRARY
“I love to design the unexpected! Just like pieces of a mosaic, I bring together color, pattern, lighting and unique elements to help my clients discover the hidden personality of their spaces.”
Lynda Somach RE•FURN•ISH LIVING ROOM
“What was old can be made new again. By using furnishings that are both functional and economical with good bones, from the last century, an eclectic, timeless room is created.”
Photo by Marco Calderon Photography
Suzanne Bartlett
Ethan Allen GUEST BEDROOM
“The Arts & Crafts Architecture inspired me to create a bedroom reminiscent of that period. An eclectic blend of classic and modern pieces highlights the importance of the bedroom’s collected, hand-crafted look.”
Lia Papasimakis Fraccaro House Splendid SUN ROOM
“Elegant and earthy, I drew inspiration from the mosaic tile floor. With shades of pebble, daffodil, leafy green, and poppy, you can nestle here any time of day or season.”
Deborah Sinatra
Deborah Sinatra Home COVERED PORCH
“The French doors leading from the kitchen were my main inspiration for this seamless entertaining space. Traditional wicker furniture offers comfortable seating for warm summer evenings or alfresco mornings.”
Will Varner Wildbirds Unlimited BACKYARD BIRD SANCTUARY
“The beautiful birds themselves are all the inspiration and reward we need for the work we do!”
Priscilla Davies Brennan
Professional Landscape Associates
WALL CORRIDOR GARDEN
“A bit of whimsy, a dab of color and herbs to delight both the eye and the palate are the elements that inspire the design of this charming garden.”
Bruce Fritzinger Plantique, Inc.
SIDE YARD COURT
“This design takes advantage of access points from the front yard and a rear deck and provides an intimate setting for an afternoon tea, a neighborly conversation, or simply passing through.”
Kimberly Petruska
Kimberly Petruska Designs BACK ENTRY
“As an artist, I was inspired by my space to showcase creative paint solutions. I wanted to show ideas for transforming existing cabinetry with specialty painting for the home or business.”
Donna Wood Stonewood Interiors
DINING ROOM
“We wanted to reflect the character of the home as well as the people who live here. It’s both elegant and inviting, where the family can gather with guests to share a meal and conversation.”
Willy Byrd
Willy’s Pre-set Designs THE PORCH
“The challenge was to incorporate monochromatic tones of beiges accented with pops of brown. Texture was used to create an organic feel. Accessories were used to pull the look together.”
Merry N. Landis
Fine Art Resources GRAND STAIRCASE
“I was very influenced by the beautiful stained glass windows and chose items in keeping with their image and era.”
Scott Rothenberger
Scott Rothenberger’s PLACE ENTRY GARDEN & OUTDOOR FOYER
“Modern versions of period furniture were chosen to complement a cottage style fence, complete with stone entry wall reminiscent of homes along the coast of New England.”
Barbara Zelechoski
Barbara Zelechoski Interiors, LLC
“NOT YOUR BUTLER’S” PANTRY
“No stuffy butler here—just a space that puts the ‘fun’ in functional with fabric embellishing a generously sized window and color where you wouldn’t normally find it.”
Laura DiMaggio Williams-Sonoma KITCHEN
“My inspiration came from getting to know the homeowner. A kitchen is where we spend time with our family and friends and it should be a reflection of ourselves.”
Frederick Learey Garden Design Inc. SIDE COURTYARD
“This garden concept is quaint, formal cottage courtyard. The garden is designed to be viewed from the home’s large windows, the sidewalk and side entry.”
Russ Schulley
Millcreek Landscape Design LEFT BANK
“We used native stone for a natural appearance and to tie in with the informal style of the back yard. We chose plantings that require less maintenance and provide additional color for all seasons.”
For more information, including ticket sales, directions & group tours, please visit www.sotapa.org
THE VALLEY’S MUSICUNDERGROUND SCENE
Local Musicians Making Their Mark
BY DUSTIN SCHOOF | PHOTOS BY MATT BISHOP
The rumbling you feel beneath your feet is not the shifting of tectonic plates or a locomotive hurtling down rusty train tracks.
It is the pulse of a strong and powerful force known as music, happening right now throughout the Lehigh Valley.
Whether you live in Bangor or Bethlehem, it is increasingly difficult to not find live music on any given night of the week. As the cities of Allentown and Easton continue to morph and be revitalized, the strength of their respective music communities has steadily grown.
Newer venues such as The Alternative Gallery, Planet Trog and Chicago Restaurant and its Club Gravity in Allentown, and established Bethlehem favorites like The Funhouse and Godfrey Daniels have become breeding grounds for the next generation of talent, where creativity is fostered and originality flourishes.
Downtown Easton has also seen an uptick in not only the amount of original music available for sonic consumption, but also an increase in spaces where live music is encouraged and supported.
Singer-songwriter Carter Lansing of Eastonbased Acoustic Kitty Project says that Easton is one piece of a long chain that links larger metropolitan cities and markets in New York and Philadelphia. Lansing says each part of the Valley functions as its own musical incubator. “Easton is lucky to have several great bars that really pride themselves on curating great music. Pearly’s, Porters’, Two Rivers, Lafayette, Rivals; it’s a long list for a small town,” he says. “It’s grassroots. It’s not run by a giant corporation or financed by casino
money. It’s what we do in Easton because it’s what we love. Not to say that the folks in Bethlehem or Allentown don’t love music. They do. They just have their own scenes. When taken as a whole, the Lehigh Valley music scene is lush. It is vibrant. And I consider myself lucky to have any small role in cultivating what it is and what it can become.”
The 2011 launch of the ArtsQuest Center and the SteelStacks complex in Southside Bethlehem opened the door to additional opportunities for local bands to share the stage, and spotlight, with national recording artists. Last August, VoirVoir kicked off The Flaming Lips’ headlining concert on the Sands Steel Stage. Six years earlier, in 2009, former Slate Belt-based hard-rock group Stasis opened for Trapt and Puddle of Mudd at Musikfest—a first for the festival.
Patrick Brogan, senior vice president of programming for ArtsQuest, says that the changing of the tide can be attributed to the area’s elder statesmen (and women) passing down the torch. “There was a window where, around 2010, in that window, I think there was a little bit of a vacuum for Lehigh Valley bands at that moment. I think the ‘establishment’ of the Lehigh Valley music scene [was] priming [that year],” he says. “The [newer] bands are beginning to come into their own and that’s led us to where we are now... I just think that scene is coming back and led by some fantastic talent.”
That talent includes several homegrown acts whose reach has stretched beyond the Lehigh Valley, garnering regional and national attention. Here are three worth keeping an eye on.
SUMMER SCOUTS
The success of a band is not defined by its lifespan or the age of its members.
Such is proven by the power-pop quintet Summer Scouts.
For a band whose existence is a scant two years and change, Summer Scouts has developed a seasoned, euphoric rock sound tailor-made for Top 40 radio. If Natalie Merchant, The Cranberries and Walk the Moon formed an impromptu supergroup, the resulting sound would be the sonic equivalent of Summer Scouts.
After releasing two EPs and two music videos, 2016 marks the debut of their first full-length recording, Furthest Reach. (The video for their single “Olympic White” has racked up more than 3,700 views on YouTube.)
Singer Katherine De Menno says, “I feel like, with our music, a lot of people can connect with it.”
In December 2015, Summer Scouts opened for national recording artists Echosmith at Musikfest Café in their native Bethlehem. Guitarist-vocalist Ross Huber credits Slingshot Dakota and VoirVoir for taking the band under their wing. “Slingshot has been a big hand in being awesome, older siblings to us,” Huber says.
The group recently signed with Maryland-based DarkShore Music Group. Huber says they were given complete creative freedom to see their musical vision through to the end. “It’s the album we always wanted to make since last winter,” Huber says. “I kind of feel like the intern who is finally getting asked [for a job].”
THE VALLEY’S MUSICUNDERGROUND SCENE
"I feel like ArtsQuest really helped bring us to the other side."
SLINGSHOT DAKOTA
For Slingshot Dakota, the path to national recognition is a journey that has been more than a decade in the making.
Good luck trying to shoehorn their sound into a single descriptive box. The music zigzags from blissful, lilting pop to feisty, machine-gun garage rock. And that is the point, says singer-keyboardist Carly Commando.
The swirling blend of styles and broad musical brush strokes are reflected on the band’s new album, fittingly titled Break. “Musically and stylistically, we’ve evolved into the best we can be at this point. [Break] really encapsulates where we are as a band,” she says. “This particular album feels really, really special.”
Originally a full band, Slingshot Dakota has evolved into a two-piece husband-and-wife act consisting of Commando, a Valley transplant by way of New York, and drummer Tom Patterson.
Patterson says it was not until the last year and a half that the group’s local following started to rapidly expand, particularly in Allentown and Bethlehem, crediting The Alternative Gallery—where they have become one of the club’s most popular draws—and ArtsQuest for their support. (Slingshot Dakota performed in 2014 at Musikfest, and again in 2015.)
“I think with us getting recognized in the Valley, we always kind of identified ourselves as being part of the punk and underground scene, even though we weren’t really fitting in in the punk scene because we don’t have any guitars and we’re not screaming or anything like that,” Patterson says. “I feel like ArtsQuest really helped bring us to the other side, to more of a mainstream audience where it would have taken us longer to get in front of.”
Commando adds, “For me, coming here, growing up in the [do-it-yourself] scene, the Lehigh Valley is similar. The personalities are similar... Whenever we played here, I felt strangely at home.”
The spike in their fan base has come with attention from outside of the Lehigh Valley. Commando and Patterson are signed with independent music label Top Shelf Records and have been featured on National Public Radio and pop culture/entertainment website The A.V. Club. In March, Rolling Stone magazine named Slingshot Dakota one of its "10 New Artists You Need to Know." Commando also earned an Emmy Award for her original piano score, which was featured in a 2007 episode of The Simpsons (The song was also used in the 2006 viral video "Noah Takes a Photo of Himself Every Day for 6 Years.")
Slingshot’s spring tour, as of this writing, will have included a stop in Austin, Texas, where they will have performed in the annual South by Southwest festival. They are also plotting a European tour. “I have this burning fire in me to prove to everybody that we’ve been kicking butt. It’s a very clichéd goal to have, a very materialistic goal to have. But it’s kind of like a validation that I’m in the right direction,” Commando says. “I’m in love with Tom and I’m in love with what we do.”
However, Commando stresses the recognition they have received could not have happened without the help and encouragement of other artists. “Everybody is sharing this dream of doing what [they] love and it’s really cool on a neighborly basis,” she says. “This is not a competition at all. Everyone is wonderful at their own thing.”
JORDAN WHITE
"...inspiration comes from the way the street light changes at night to someone I know.”
Singer-songwriter Jordan White of Allentown got his start working the regional open-mic circuit about seven years ago. Growing up a shy youth, White says playing the guitar gave him a feeling of power and confidence that counteracted that timidness. “What inspired me in the beginning was I wanted to create something,” White says. “Now, inspiration comes from the way the street light changes at night to someone I know.”
White appeared on the fifth season of American Idol. Last year, White signed with David Ivory’s Flexitone Records and released the single “Crazy Girl” in September 2015. He will follow up the single with a six-song EP he recorded in New York City. For the EP, White teamed with Jim Annunziato, who won a Grammy Award for his work with Jennifer Lopez. A music video shoot in Las Vegas is also being planned.
“It’s really cool for a guy my age to become this flower that [has bloomed] over the past few years,” White says. “As a musician, the best thing you can do is keep playing.”
White also muses, “As cheesy as it sounds, it’s true. If you really believe you can do it, eventually you’ll find an audience.”
White’s recent success is indicative of the amount of talent bubbling to the surface in the Lehigh Valley. He credits the open-mindedness of area music fans with allowing a diverse array of styles to flourish and organically grow. “Somebody’s going to really blow up and that’s going to put the spotlight on these other bands. People are really receptive to new music and that’s a really good thing,” he says. “You can feel it. There is a spark in the air.”
5 LOCAL MUSIC RELEASES NOT TO MISS
SUMMER 2016 ROI AND THE SECRET PEOPLE
Easton’s Roi and the Secret People are also taking the singles-first, album-second approach to their follow-up to 2013’s Phoenix. If the swampy lead single “Hunger” is any indication, fans should expect a slightly harder edge to an already-pleasing sound, equal parts Tom Petty and vintage Elvis Costello.
reverbnation.com/roiandthesecretpeople
Released March 11
On Break, delicate piano melodies collide with bombastic drums. The album captures the dynamic duo of singer-keyboardist Carly Commando and drummer Tom Patterson at their fiercest and most congealed state yet. Traces of Slingshot Dakota’s punk roots permeate—but never overshadow—this spirited collection of pure, uninhibited musical might.
slingshotdakotamusic.com
Released April 2015
Summer Scouts turns up the heat—and dials up the energy—on their first full-length effort. The music is irresistible and infectious, hand-crafted in a warm, pop clay that, when left to harden, brings out a strong, formidable base of solid musicianship.
summerscouts.com
VOIRVOIR
Acoustic Kitty Project (the brainchild of frontman Carter Lansing) is planning to put out a handful of singles before collecting and releasing them as a full album of new material. For fans of folk, country, Americana and rock ’n’ roll, Acoustic Kitty Project offers a little something for everyone; a colorful musical quilt stitched together through a patchwork of sounds that purr with cool. With a projected summer release, this collection will be worth the wait.
acoustickittyproject.com
CAHILL VS. KALMA BONUS PICK
Melodic indie rock with just the slightest hint of garage angst drives what is shaping up to be a stellar album from one of the Lehigh Valley’s most buzz-worthy talents. Need proof? You can hear the passion in the revved-up single “Sides” and the live recording of “Quit it All.”
voirvoir.bandcamp.com
Cahill vs. Kalma is a scintillating syncing of digital beats and cascading guitar licks, the latter courtesy of axe-man Dave Cahill (formerly of the band The Almighty Terribles). The future never sounded so good. Check out the singles “Future Shock” and “Too Much of a Good Thing.”
davecahill.com
It’s 2016, and business is booming in the Lehigh Valley!
Whether it’s fresh, emerging companies or generations-old family businesses, our diverse region is teeming with tons of equally diverse professionals. With fields ranging from medicine and fitness to home furnishings, finance and more, these are the faces you need to know.
PHOTOS BY COLIN COLEMAN PHOTOGRAPHY
THE FACE OF ORAL SURGERY
St. Luke’s OMS Your Center for Oral Surgery has been the leading oral surgery practice in the Lehigh Valley for over 15 years. The practice was formed by Dr. Wayne J. Saunders (seated at left), who saw a need for high-quality, compassionate and affordable health care in our area. Today, the practice takes pride in giving patients their smiles back—and offering the largest range of oral surgery services in the Valley. Annually, St. Luke’s OMS offices perform
more dental implant surgeries than any other practice in the area. St. Luke’s OMS also offers wisdom tooth removal, tooth extraction, bone and gum grafting, jaw surgery, All-on-4™ fixed dentures and periimplantitis treatment. They also offer cosmetic facial treatments such as Botox, Juvederm and Kybella.
St. Luke’s OMS has four locations in Bethlehem, Allentown and Easton and employs 11 oral surgeons and one on-staff periodontist.
These offices are open weekdays 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and offer Saturday hours. The Surgeons at St. Luke’s OMS are also on call for emergencies and perform facial trauma surgery at St. Luke’s University Health Network. As a patient, you’ll experience the best of both worlds—the locations, services and appointment times of a large practice, while still being treated as if you are the surgeon’s top priority, with the highest quality of care!
2016 FACES OF THE VALLEY
THE FACE OF FURNISHING YOUR DREAM
If you’re ready to create a new look in your house (or the entire home), look no further than GailGray Home Furnishings and Design in the Promenade Shops at Saucon Valley. This Center Valley store is known for its ever-changing selection of fresh and new furniture, home accessories, artwork, lamps and more. Their retail storefront is open seven days a week and continues to inspire customers looking for finishing touches or a whole new look.
GailGray also offers an interior design service and in-home consultations. The store’s designers have a keen eye and years of experience helping homeowners decide which existing elements to update or keep. Perhaps more importantly, GailGray designers are experts at helping both in-store customers and those pursuing consultations to create just the right look for their individual lifestyle and space.
GailGray opened in 2000 as Accessories, etc. In 2008, owner Gail Gray Dunn (back right) changed the store’s name to better reflect its furniture offerings and design consultations. GailGray specializes in custom orders and requests, and customers often comment that the store is filled with beautiful and unique merchandise—all the more reason to visit again and again.
2016 FACES OF THE VALLEY
THE FACE OF BEAUTIFUL EYES
DR. FRANK BALOH, LEHIGH VALLEY EYE CENTER
Dr. Frank Baloh of Lehigh Valley Eye Center is a unique sub-specialist and the Valley’s only full-time, board-certified ophthalmologist who is fellowship trained in eye plastic surgery. He is exceptionally qualified to perform all cosmetic, functional and reconstructive eyelid procedures, as well as Botox, fillers and laser facial rejuvenation.
Since arriving in the Valley in 1998, Dr. Baloh has used his extensive training to help countless patients in need of reconstructive plastic surgery with a level of care previously only available in larger metropolitan cities. His knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of the eye, coupled with his plastic surgery training, makes Dr. Baloh highly successful in the treatment of the aging process as it affects the eye. This includes repairing tired and drooping lids, which can impact vision as well as appearance. Non-surgical techniques can also be used to treat the functional and cosmetic problems associated with aging skin. When it comes to rejuvenating your appearance, trust Dr. Frank Baloh with your eyes.
THE FACE OF ADVANCED LASER VISION CORRECTION
LEHIGH VALLEY EYE CENTER
Ready to put away your glasses and contacts? The doctors at Lehigh Valley Eye Center are committed to the most advanced vision correction techniques, allowing them to provide outstanding vision results regardless of age or specific glass prescription.
Drs. Marnie O’Brien and Ravi A. Shah are the only doctors in the Lehigh Valley who perform bladeless or all-laser LASIK. These
highly-experienced eye surgeons are deeply committed to patient safety and the absolute best vision outcomes. To ensure this outcome, every patient receives extensive screening tests with advanced diagnostic equipment to help determine the technology best suited to their individual needs. During the LASIK evaluation, the doctors personally evaluate each client to create a customized procedure.
The same doctor performs the evaluation, surgery and follow-up after the procedure.
In addition to LASIK services, Drs. O’Brien and Shah offer advanced laser cataract surgery options that can reduce dependence on corrective lenses. Visit their website to learn more.
THE FACE OF WOOD ARTISANS
GROTHOUSE INC.
If you’re searching for the perfect custom wood countertop, butcher block or table, look no further than Grothouse, the area’s foremost artisan manufacturer of solid wood surfaces.
Founder Paul Grothouse (back row, fourth from right) is the son of a highly-respected period furniture maker and learned the art and craftsmanship of woodworking at an early age. After graduating from Virginia Tech with a degree in engineering, he began building custom furniture and wood butcher
blocks. He launched Grothouse Lumber in 1994, and the business has since become the nation’s leading innovator in luxury wood surfaces.
Grothouse’s wood surfaces have been featured in national magazines and television shows and are also found in celebrity restaurants and homes. Their commercial grade bars can be found in restaurants, casinos and even Walt Disney World. They offer an extensive variety of responsiblyharvested wood species, edge profiles and
stain colors, including laboratory stain matching. The business also offers a 2–3 week lead time, the shortest in the industry, and a comprehensive lifetime warranty.
Ready to design your custom solid wood surface? Grothouse offers a network of over 4,000 dealers worldwide. Every wood countertop arrives ready to install, and templating and installation is available throughout Pennsylvania, New Jersey and beyond.
2016 FACES OF THE VALLEY
THE FACE OF DERMATOLOGY
AESTHETIC SURGERY ASSOCIATES KEVITCH, CHUNG & JAN
Complimenting Aesthetic Surgery Associate’s cosmetic and reconstructive offerings are its expanded dermatology services, led by Dr. Marie Wagener.
By adding a dermatologist to its existing staff of three board-certified plastic surgeons, Aesthetic Surgery Associates has become the Valley’s first comprehensive aesthetic and cosmetic center. Wagener offers patients all of the nonsurgical aspects of facial aesthetics, including procedures such as Botox, fillers, lasers, peels and Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP, also known as the “vampire facelift”). She joined the office of Aesthetic Surgery Associates to better pursue her passion for aesthetics after seeing first-hand how deeply dermatologic problems can impact patients’ confidence.
Interested in learning more? Like Aesthetic Surgery Associates’ surgeons, Dr. Wagener prides herself in treating every patient as an individual with his or her own needs and goals. Together, you’ll create a patient-doctor team that works jointly to find the right solution for your unique skin.
Aesthetic Surgery Associates offers cosmetic and reconstructive services ranging from noninvasive aesthetic services to surgery that can change your appearance, boost your self-confidence and help you to look your best.
Drs. Robert Kevitch, Johnny Chung and Badar Jan are board-certified plastic surgeons and members of the American Society
of Plastic Surgeons. They share a passion and talent for both art and medicine, and take pride in achieving natural results tailored to each individual patient. Aesthetic Surgery Associates utilizes state-of-the-art facilities and equipment to offer the latest in minimally invasive plastic surgery procedures, and is home to the only local boardcertified surgeons offering the revolutionary
SmartLipo. They also offer non-surgical rejuvenation options and have been the area’s forerunners in procedures such as miraDry, CoolSculpting and Neograft.
In addition to a wide range of services offered by experienced surgeons, expect a personalized touch—from staff who know every patient by name to follow-up calls after surgery.
2016 FACES OF THE VALLEY
When a beloved animal is injured or ill, veterinarians rely heavily on imaging devices to quickly diagnose and treat a wide variety of health issues. Owners Dr. Carlos Hodges (left), Dr. Ronald Hodges (right) and Joe Galazin (center) are proud to offer the area’s first state-of-the-art imagining facility, which will lead to local pets receiving better and
faster medical treatment without leaving the Lehigh Valley.
The office fills an important void for local veterinarians and pet owners. Before this year, the nearest veterinary imaging facility was located an hour from the Lehigh Valley. Advanced Veterinary Imaging offers the valley’s first 3D, high-definition CT scanner
designed for veterinary use, and is the first to locally offer hyperbaric oxygen chamber therapy—a versatile treatment in high demand. The center also offers fluoroscopy and digital x-rays. All imaging is shared quickly and efficiently with the pet owner’s referring veterinarian.
THE FACE OF MODERN MARKETING
PERFECT SIX
Perfect Six is a trusted omprehensive digital and traditional marketing company that specializes in small- to mid-size businesses. The company focuses on both function and aesthetics to create stunning, effective print and digital marketing concepts that “wow” their clients and deliver unparalleled results.
Perfect Six is led by Denise Grothouse (seated at right), the co-owner of Grothouse Inc.,
the area’s top wood artisan. She first used her talents to create a marketing strategy for Grothouse Inc., with explosive national results. Today, she has curated an elite group of experts to analyze each client’s marketing strategy and create a customized approach that works with the business’s marketing budget and goals. Their services include search engine optimization (SEO)
and website design, public relations, social media, publishing and AdWords management as certified Google Partners. The savvy team members of Perfect Six combine a breadth and depth of knowledge that far exceeds the abilities of an in-house marketing staff member.
Be Social | Be Known | Be Awesome
THE FACE OF DIAMOND ENGAGEMENT RINGS
TIMOTHY RICHARD FINE JEWELRY
When it’s time to choose an engagement ring, start with Timothy Richard Fine Jewelry.
Timothy Richard specializes in loose diamond selection; custom designed mountings, and wedding bands, including a large selection of in-stock engagement ring mountings and antique engagement rings. They are also a full-service jeweler, offering services from ring sizing and jewelry repair to plating, engraving and custom design and stone setting. Repairs are done on-site, sometimes while the customer waits.
When you enter the store, expect to deal directly with owners Richard Perose (left) and Timothy Statler (right). Perose is a graduate of the Gemological Institute of America and opened his first store in 1985. Statler apprenticed in his family’s jewelry business starting in 1991 and has an artistic passion for goldsmithing and stone setting. Together, these men offer both diverse diamond and gemstone knowledge and an eye for beauty—the perfect combination when designing or choosing an engagement ring.
2016 FACES OF THE VALLEY
BUSINESS
YOCCO’S “THE HOT DOG KING”
Yocco’s serves up a true “taste” of Allentown—and a shining example of family business that is four generations strong.
Yocco’s specializes in high-quality fast food and is best known for its hot dogs, cheesesteaks and pierogies, made to order while customers watch. They currently have six locations and more than 120 employees, and have plans to grow.
The business was started in 1922 by Theodore Iacocca, an Italian immigrant, as the Liberty Grille (seen in the portrait hanging above). While its name and location have changed, Yocco’s continues to serve generations of fans. Their hot dogs are made from a decades-old recipe, served fresh and never frozen.
Yocco’s secret recipe chili sauce, a light but
tangy condiment, is known throughout the valley and beyond.
Owner Gary Iacocca (left) follows in the footsteps of his father and former owner, Julius Iacocca (center), and grandfather Theodore. Gary’s oldest son Chris (right) is Vice President and Operations Manager of the company.
COMFORTABLE CLIMATES
Are you ready for summer? Trust Burkholder’s Heating and Air Conditioning, Inc. for all of your air conditioning and heating needs. This secondgeneration business is one of the Valley’s largest HVAC companies and takes pride in its team of friendly, experienced employees and small business roots.
In addition to heating and cooling, Burkholder’s also offers sales, installation, warranty work and repairs for ducts, ventilation, generators, geothermal units, radiant heat, air cleaners
and more for residential, commercial and industrial applications.
President Robert Burkholder has been in the business since age 15, first helping with cleanup and eventually moving into sales, service and installation. He aims to live and work by his late father and founder’s words: Treat people the way you would like to be treated. This belief has led to a staff of knowledgeable employees willing to share their skills and educate clients—and generations of satisfied customers.
THE FACE OF BARRE
Ready to look and feel your best? Turn to Pure Barre Bethlehem for a workout that will quickly help you become stronger, leaner and more energetic.
Pure Barre Bethlehem’s 55-minute class offers an effective total-body workout that lifts your seat, tones your thighs, abs and arms and burns fat. Each muscle group is worked to fatigue and then stretched out to create a long, lean physique, without bulk. Customers have been raving about the speed at which they see results—they’re getting stronger, more flexible and toned after each and every class!
Co-owner Katie Johnson (left) is a Pure Barre client-turned-teacher and opened the Bethlehem studio this spring with her sister, Sally Ambrose (right), to inspire local women of all sizes and fitness levels to empower each other while becoming their best, most confident and healthiest selves.
In addition to retirement planning and retirement income strategies, Myers Wealth Management Group also focuses on wealth preservation strategies, investments, tax planning strategies, insurance and estate planning strategies.
When it comes to planning for retirement, experience matters. Christopher Myers, Private Wealth Advisor and Franchise Owner of Myers Wealth Management Group, has been a financial advisor for 24 years and a franchise of Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. since 1992. The business moved to its new Center Valley location in April 2015. Myers Wealth Management Group helps clients achieve their dreams for today, tomorrow and well into the future using the exclusive Confident Retirement® approach. Each client is lead through a personalized conversation about covering essential costs, ensuring their lifestyle, preparing for the unexpected and leaving a legacy. Myers Wealth Management Group prides itself in breaking financial goals down into achievable steps, and helping clients address the certainty of uncertainty by planning for their financial future.
THE FACE OF UNIQUE FINE JEWELRY & CUSTOM DESIGN
SUSAN BELLA JEWELRY
Looking for a unique accessory to express your style? Discover the gem that is Susan Bella Jewelry. Her welcoming shop, located on the West End of Allentown, is packed with gorgeous fine jewelry you won’t find anywhere else in the Valley. Offering everything from statement jewelry to versatile everyday pieces, all it takes is one visit to get hooked!
For a truly unique experience, schedule an appointment to have Susan Bella Linski custom design a oneof-a-kind piece. Susan consults with her clients in order to get to know them and create truly personal pieces of jewelry that fit their lifestyle and tell their story. She incorporates as much sentiment into her designs as possible, particularly while re-designing heirloom pieces which are her specialty.
Susan is proud of the full-service jewelry store she has built where customer service and quality reign supreme. The genuine sales advice, expert repairs, and heartfelt designs keep her clients coming back.
THE FACE OF COSMETIC DENTISTRY
DR. MICHAEL KUN
The unique thing about nature is that natural beauty comes in so many shapes, colors and sizes. Beauty is unique to each individual. What often catches your attention is a smile. Your smile defines you.
Trained and mentored by the best dentists in the world, Dr. Michael Kun’s talent is in artistically restoring the natural beauty and function to your smile. A facially focused treatment model is created after your comprehensive evaluation. You are part of the decision making process as your preferences define the fine details of your new smile.
Dr. Kun has been a sustaining member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and holds fellowships in The International Academy of Dental Facial Esthetics, The Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies and The International Association of Physiologic Aesthetics.
Dr. Kun invites you to renew, rejuvenate and reclaim your smile. Experience the sculpted smile.
2016 FACES
THE FACE OF CARPET & FLOORING CREST FLOORING
Crest Flooring is unquestionably the face of floor covering in the Lehigh Valley. Started in 1952, Crest has always been the gold standard for residential and business floor coverings.
Steve Weisberg, who has guided the company since 1971, is most proud of the 31 consecutive “Who’s Who in Business Awards” Crest has won. “It’s a testament to the professionalism of our employees to provide the right product to match customer needs,” he says. The vast majority of Crest’s employees have an average tenure of 12 to 41 years. Their loyal customers have made the biggest impact; so many of them will say “I always come to Crest.”
Recognized locally and nationally as a leader in their field, Crest seems to never stop growing and innovating. Weisberg has served on Shaw Industries (a Berkshire Hathaway Company) dealer board the past seven years and is proud of their newest affiliation with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Spring is the perfect time to visit Ross Plants and Flowers, a full-service flower shop and greenhouse that also has a shop filled with unique garden-themed gifts.
Ross Plants and Flowers offers fresh flowers for all occasions, from everyday flowers to wedding and funeral arrangements. Fresh flowers arrive daily from around the world. Ross also stocks their greenhouse in all seasons, featuring their largest variety during the spring when they sell annuals, vegetable plants, herbs, perennials, hanging baskets and planters.
Owners Monica Yurconic-Groff and Mike Groff, along with their friendly staff members, have a passion for flowers and beauty, and quickly learn each customer’s unique style and plant preferences.
Ross Plants and Flowers has been a Lehigh Valley staple for nearly 80 years, and a sister company to Naturalscapes, Inc., for the past decade. Together, the two companies offer a wide variety of plants, design and landscaping services for local homeowners and businesses throughout the year.
2016 FACES OF THE VALLEY
THE FACE OF KITCHEN & BATH REMODELING
BELLA CASA KITCHEN & BATH
Turn to Bella Casa Kitchen and Bath for all of your remodeling needs. Bella Casa specializes in complete kitchen and bath remodeling, from design and material selection to installation.
You’ll find the inspiration you need in their custom showroom, where you can choose from high-quality cabinets, countertops, flooring and hardware. Perhaps more importantly, you’ll also find expert assistance and a friendly, knowledgeable staff.
As a family-owned and -operated business, Bella Casa combines the experience and selection of a larger design studio with the “family feel” of a smaller company. Its owners, Faye and Spiros Motsenigos, are actively involved in the business, and their design and installation members are knowledgeable, creative, and ready to treat customers like family.
Looking to remodel beyond the kitchen or bath, or complete a more extensive project? Bella Casa also offers custom built-ins, basement refinishing, and general contracting—all completed with the same professional standards and the highest quality of craftmanship.
THE FACE OF SMART GROWTH
JAINDL ENTERPRISES
Jaindl Enterprises is dedicated to bringing new destinations, experiences and employment opportunities to the Lehigh Valley through responsible urban redevelopment. Whether they are transforming a twentysix acre brownfield into a dynamic mixed-use campus or restoring one of Allentown’s most historic banks to its former grandeur, Jaindl Enterprises is breathing new life into the area’s underutilized landmarks.
Jaindl Properties was founded by Mark (right) and Zachary Jaindl (left) in 2011 to promote smart growth practices throughout the region, with a particular emphasis on Allentown’s developing urban core and surrounding neighborhoods. The company announced Vault 634, LLC, a full service wedding and event venue (to properly showcase the classic Lehigh Valley Trust Building in Allentown) as well as SteelRock Property Management in 2014 to effectively manage their growing portfolio. Jaindl Properties is also a lead developer in The Waterfront, a 1.25 million square foot mixed-use campus located on the western banks of the Lehigh River in Allentown.
Erickson Financial Group specializes in family-owned businesses. Many business owners don’t have a financial plan that blends their business with their personal financial goals, but the two are often
Erickson Financial Group offers both financial
and
planning strategies. They are also licensed to sell investment and insurance products. Perhaps most importantly, you won’t need to explain what it means to be a small business owner at Erickson Financial Group—as a family-owned business themselves, they simply understand.
THE FACE OF WEDDING PLANNING & FLORALS
MARK KINTZEL DESIGN
Mark Kintzel, the owner of Mark Kintzel Design, has had a lifelong appreciation for flowers and beauty. Today, he specializes in wedding planning, styling and floral arrangements for all occasions.
Kintzel’s first foray into the wedding business was to design the floral arrangements for a close friend’s nuptials. The business
grew from there, with Kintzel creating florals, style details and designs that are as striking and elegant as they are whimsical. He has worked locally and internationally, and his designs and florals have been featured in numerous publications. Kintzel sources local florals when possible and will often build unique props and style elements to ensure
that his events stand out.
Perhaps the most rewarding aspect of the wedding planning business is the feedback from the happy couple. Kintzel often hears statements of disbelief from clients—that their special day was so much more than they expected!
2016 FACES
K&H CUSTOM WINDOW TREATMENTS & FINE HOME ACCESSORIES
Ready to transform your space? Turn to K&H Custom Window Treatments for the finishing touch on your next residential or commercial project.
K&H was launched by the mother-daughter team of Norma Heller and Sandy Kuhns (far right) in 1986 and has quickly built a reputation for quality products, individual attention and superior customer service. Now celebrating its 30th year, K&H continues to be family-owned and -operated.
K&H Custom Window Treatments specializes in custom-made top treatments, all types of draperies, cushions, blinds, shades, shutters and automated window solutions for both residential and commercial applications. Unique home decor as well as creative window treatments are on display at their Trexlertown showroom. Window treatments are produced in K&H’s in-house workroom, and installed by an experienced installation team. Clients are offered exclusive packages, including customized designs, and a variety of styles and fabric selections.
If you’re ready to look as good as you feel, contact Meesha Aesthetics.
Meesha Aesthetics specializes in skin care and the latest nonsurgical anti-aging treatments, including Botox and facial fillers such as Juvederm and Voluma. They recently expanded to offer UltraShape and VelaShape, which are non-invasive procedures used
to shed inches, tighten skin and reduce cellulite. A full-time esthetician is also on site to create custom skin-care solutions. Meesha Aesthetics’ aim is to ensure that each client’s unique goals are met, and that every client is able to look in the mirror and be happy with what they see.
Owners
Michelle Balbi (right) and Lisa
Silvaggio (left) began Meesha Aesthetics in 2012. At the time, both were in their forties and feared aging. They’ve since learned not to fear aging but to embrace it—all while helping themselves and other women and men to age gracefully.
FACES OF THE VALLEY
Whether you are searching for your dream home or thinking of upgrading your present one in the greater Lehigh Valley, Jack Gross and his team at Better Homes and Gardens
Cassidon Realty know that business is not about one transaction but relationships. The top priority for Cassidon agents is to build a relationship with each client and understand
their
Cassidon agents have access to the latest tools and marketing programs available, providing their clients with state of the art service.
Jack has been in the real estate business nearly 28 years. Better Homes and Gardens
Cassidon Realty
THE FACE OF ESTATE PLANNING
The Pennsylvania office of Norris McLaughlin & Marcus, P.A. has served the Lehigh Valley since 1913. Today, its Estate, Trust and Tax department includes 14 experienced lawyers.
This team specializes in sophisticated estate and tax planning matters and works closely with clients to understand the entirety of their situation and needs. Their goal is to
ensure that clients’ hard-earned assets pass to their intended beneficiaries at as little cost as possible by minimizing federal and state tax burdens.
No matter what your individual needs, Norris McLaughlin & Marcus has the experience and knowledge necessary to help. Its highly-qualified lawyers can prepare wills, trusts, powers of attorney and living wills, charitable trusts and foundations, taxeffective business succession plans and tax planning for life insurance and retirement plans. They also offer all aspects of estate and trust administration, including: guardianships; estate, gift, income and inheritance tax returns and audits; estate and trust litigation.
Since 1951, the Bennett Automotive Group has offered world-class automotive products. Their six state-of-the-art dealerships include Maserati, Toyota, Infiniti, Land Rover, Range Rover and Jaguar. In addition to new and pre-owned automotive sales, Bennett also offers vehicle service, a full collision center and car rentals.
The Bennett Automotive Group has built a family tradition of honesty, trust and integrity that lends itself to developing mutual, long-term relationships with their customers. Customer satisfaction is something they take very seriously and as a result Bennett has won prestigious awards from both the
community and the automotive manufacturers they represent. Just some of the awards include the Toyota President’s Award (2012–2015) for out standing customer service, 2015 Dealer of the Year (Bennett Infiniti), Top Work place (The Morning Call, 2013–2015) and 2015 Business of the Year ( Valley Business).
Rob Bennett, President of Bennett Au tomotive Group, also believes that giving back to the community has helped their business grow and is proud to sponsor many charitable organizations throughout the Lehigh Valley.
Valley National Financial Advisors offers its clients a “one-stop” approach to financial planning, allowing you to organize and address all of the areas in your financial life.
Thomas Riddle (seated, second from left), a Certified Public Accountant and Certified Financial Planner™ professional, founded Valley National in 1985 while working as a CPA. His tax clients often
had questions about financial plans, investments, life insurance and more, and he realized there was a need for one place where clients could go to address their complex financial lives. Today, Valley National’s experienced advisors build one-on-one relationships with each of their clients to help them in all these areas, and more.
Valley National’s services include financial plan-
ning, retirement planning, investment management, asset management services, ExecutiveEdge™ Personal Financial Planning for Corporate Leaders, insurance planning, education planning, tax planning and preparation, estate planning and trust services.
Valley National has remained locally-owned and independent for more than 30 years.
LEHIGH VALLEY CHARTER HIGH SCHOOL
ARTS
By Stacey Solt |
Photography by Colin Coleman
Diane LaBelle Executive Director & CEO
GOING BEYOND TRADITIONAL EDUCATION
Imagine a high school where students are eager to attend classes, a school where teenagers find new and exciting ways to learn and inspire each other—and their teachers— every day.
This is the reality of the Lehigh Valley Charter High School for the Arts, located on East Third Street in Bethlehem. Now in its 13th year, this public, tuition-free charter school is open to high school students with potential or demonstrated talent in the arts. Students travel each day from 46 different school districts within a 10-county region, some as far away as the Poconos, to attend the Bethlehem school.
Charter Arts’ current students and graduates are thriving, but they are quick to note that learning to perform or create art isn’t the most valuable component of their education. (Only one in ten graduates will continue a profession in the arts.) Today’s employers and college recruiters are looking for well-rounded individuals with real-life experience, says Charter Arts Executive Director and CEO Diane LaBelle.
“They want an individual who is creative. They want an individual who can take responsibility, who has a strong work ethic, and someone who is motivated to figure out how to get the job done,” she says. “That’s really what kids learn here.”
Lynsey Jeffery senior theatre major & student council president
TH E
ARTS & LEARNING
Students at Charter Arts can major in one of seven artistic disciplines: theatre, dance, visual arts, vocal music, instrumental music, figure skating and literary arts. Once students are accepted into a major, they have access to a curriculum that solidifies basic techniques and concepts before moving on to more advanced and pre-professional skills.
The schedule at Charter Arts is designed so that students spend half of the day focused on their artistic major, and the remainder of the day on core academic courses.
“Charter Arts is a high school and meets all of the Pennsylvania core standards,” says LaBelle, who notes that the school offers nine Advanced Placement (AP) courses and is ranked one of the state’s top charter schools for the arts. “Our program balances both the arts and core curricular work. We also try to incorporate one into the other, which helps students who are very passionate about the arts.”
This might mean encouraging dance students to perform an interpretation of Beowulf for an English class, or asking art majors to visually recreate a science lesson.
“We have an amazing faculty and students. I’m always surprised and so pleased,” she says. “There was a great rap song that was done about cell theory. These students are never going to forget the parts of the cell after learning it that way. We’re really pushing more and more to make this type of learning happen.”
In addition to academic courses and artistic technique, students also delve deeper into their artistic major. For example, music majors study composition in addition to performance, and dance students spend time focusing on choreography and analytical skills. Each major also has a strong focus on the history of their art.
Lynsey Jeffery, a senior theatre major and student council president who joined Charter Arts in ninth grade, has acting classes each morning—but is also taking a course on playwriting and a senior seminar, which focuses on acting techniques and preparation for the school’s annual showcase.
EXPANSION
While this is the school’s 13th school year, it is the first year in its newly built facility in Bethlehem. (The school was previously located in a leased building on East Broad Street.) The new school building was a breakthrough in design for a high school that focuses on both the arts and academics. It added classroom space and studios, a 350-seat performing arts theatre and more, all designed with the school’s majors in mind.
The result is a school that is twice the size of its previous location. The school has also expanded its enrollment from 472 students to 550, and plans to grow to more than 600 students as the school expands and adds additional programs.
“This year we do not have a wait list, at this point. Last year we had a wait list in every single area,” says LaBelle. While the audition process is rigorous and intense, it’s also a blind audition—faculty focus on the student’s performance and potential, not grades.
“It’s kind of a clean slate,” she says. “If a student is passionate about their art, and they perform well in their audition, they will be accepted.”
This application process means that only those students who are truly motivated to learn the arts are accepted. Every student walking the halls is there because they had a desire to attend the school, and a powerful motivation to succeed. The results, says LaBelle, are extraordinary.
“It creates an environment where everyone is here because they really want to be here. It’s like magic at times,” she says. “They all embrace each other in a way that allows them to perform and feel safe. In order for learning to occur, one of the most important elements is that students feel safe where they are.”
“IF A STUDENT IS PASSIONATE ABOUT THEIR ART...THEY WILL BE ACCEPTED.”
“Last year we had 105 SENIORS graduate, receiving close to $2.5 MILLION in scholarship money. That certainly says to me that colleges know what they’re getting when they get our students.”
BEYOND
TH E CLASSROOM
The efforts of the charter school’s students are frequently put on display through exhibits, showcases and other performances. The theatre department alone produces four main stage shows each year, in addition to one or two second-stage shows. These second-stage shows are directed and produced by high school seniors in the department—and all shows, both main and second stage, provide ample opportunities for student experience.
“I have friends who have done hair and makeup, or costumes. Students help to design lights and built sets. There is a lot of student involvement in our theatre department in both technical and acting,” says Jeffery.
While students’ achievements both inside and outside of the classroom are important, perhaps the most critical measurement of their education is what takes place after high school graduation. While one in ten students will go on to professionally study their art, the majority will take what they have learned from Charter Arts and apply it in new ways, often towards a two- or four-year degree in another field. Students have entered careers as diverse as education, engineering, science and nursing.
“A lot of times, they’ll keep their art as their college minor, but for their majors they go into other areas,” says LaBelle. “What they’ve learned at our school, that they take with them to college and for the rest of their lives, is this work ethic that they’ve developed, as well as a discipline.
“Last year we had 105 seniors graduate, receiving close to $2.5 million in scholarship money. That certainly says to me that colleges know what they’re getting when they get our students,” she adds. “That’s great for these students. These are public school students, and most have not had the opportunity to study their art from the age of four. It’s a passion that they have, and they develop it over the four years that they have here.”
As Jeffery prepares for graduation from Charter Arts, she also prepares to apply her intense training in theatre to a new career. She has been accepted to the University of Maryland to study broadcast journalism.
“I’ve learned so many skills here that will be valuable. I’ve learned how to effectively communicate with people. I’ve learned how to present myself well. We did an on-camera unit, so I have that under my belt,” she says. “I’ve changed a lot since coming here. I came here and became immersed in my art. I thought ‘Yes, I love this,’ and now I want to take these skills and apply them to new areas.” ■ s
BYCARRIEHAVRANEK|PHOTOGRAPHYBYSHELBIEPLETZ
FOOD TRUCK FRENZY RollingOut eGoods
The Lehigh Valley is a complex web of cities, townships and municipalities, all with their own rules and regulations, which makes owning a food truck tricky business.Youcan’tsimplypullup,parkandstartfeedingthemasses.That’swhy the Greater Lehigh Valley Mobile Food Alliance was formed—to help the trucks, their drivers and the places they go all work together to get what they need: access to hungry customers.
Thereare30ofthemsofar,andmorekeeppoppingup,saysTraceyMathews, Mobile Food Alliance president. Many of the Alliance trucks regularly rotate between Stabler Corporate Center (Center Valley Parkway) and Lehigh Valley Corporate Center (Schoenersville Road) for its Food Truck Friday events. And a couple of them have fixed locations, too, such as Bad Bones BBQ at Newhard Farms Corn Shed in Coplay, and The Smokin’ Bull Shack at the Inside Scoop in Coopersburg. To track these trucks, follow their individual social media accounts, which detail their constantly changing whereabouts. In general, you can expect the trucks to be out and about from spring through fall. They’re also available for hire. Want a whole lot more? Check out the Lehigh Valley Food Truck Festival at Coca-Cola Park on May 14.
PECULIAR CULINARY COMPANY
WHO: With roots in the region, starting with a basement steak shop to full-on trailers at festivals and two brick-andmortar locales, this three-generation business, run by Vince Cocca and his son Chris, dates to 1957 and added two food trucks to its fleet last year.
WHAT: Vince’s Original cheesesteak with everything: steak, American cheese, onions, sauce, pickles, hot peppers; the Italian adds sweet peppers. Chicken iterations such as the bacon chicken chipotle win big too—it was an awardwinner at the IronPigs Bacon & Brews bash last year.
WHERE & WHEN: Take-out at Lynnville Hotel, 8148 Bausch Rd., New Tripoli; steak shop at 806 Hamilton St., Allentown; Food Truck Fridays.
WHO: Gene and Miranda Philbin founded the company in Pittston—that’s up near Scranton—as a way to throw pop-up supper clubs and grow community in 2012; the food truck launched with Kickstarter support in October 2015.
WHAT: These folks take sustainability to heart, using as many seasonal and local food items as possible for their “peculiar” twists on comfort foods, such as chicken and waffles, short rib tacos and brisket breakfast burritos. Don’t miss their double-cooked fries with homemade ketchup.
WHERE & WHEN: They have done some appearances around here at Weyerbacher, so keep an eye out.
WHO: Opened by Lehigh University in 2012, this truck was started as a way to make food more accessible during special events and in places on campus lacking access to dining options.
WHAT: Food truck fare, bumped up a notch; hand-cut fries, breakfast sandwiches all day; a zesty falafel that’s made from scratch from a Palestinian recipe, and then some.
WHERE & WHEN: March–November: Mon.–Fri. 8 a.m.–3 p.m., December–March: 9:30 a.m.–3 p.m. Sometimes the truck operates through the later hours depending on what’s happening on campus. 8 E. Packer Ave., Bethlehem.
FOLLOW: facebook.com/fudtruk
WHO: Evan Asoudegan started the Moo truck several years ago to much fanfare. The Moo truck became so popular that Asoudegan opened a roadside joint in Ottsville (which has since closed) and another one in New Hope in 2015.
WHAT: Fresh, locally sourced grass-fed burgers, plus fries, hot dogs, shakes and salads. Ask for the Moo burger, with special sauce and bacon.
WHEN & WHERE: Moo is for hire for all kinds of parties, including weddings. The brick-and-mortar location is at 137 S. Main St., New Hope.
FOLLOW: facebook.com/themootruck
FULL OF CREPE THE MOO TRUCK
WHO: Crepes have gone from a simple storefront in Southside Bethlehem in 2012 to a burgeoning, full-time business for owner Ashley Caldwell. You may have seen the “Green Machine,” a.k.a. her truck, pulling up at festivals around the Valley since 2014. After spending a season with the Easton Farmers’ Market, Caldwell’s also now part of the Easton Public Market.
WHAT: Fully loaded crepes, Moravian Sugar Cake and the Old Faithful (strawberries, nutella, bananas) are big hits, along with the have-it-your-way Blue Plate Special breakfast crepe.
WHERE & WHEN: 333 S. New St., Bethlehem; 325 Northampton St., Easton and festivals and special events around the Valley.
FOLLOW: facebook.com/fullofcrepellc
WHO: Cooking buddies Dakota Bonney, 23, and Dustin Lance, 25, were looking for something different, so they started up the Aioli food truck in May 2015. “We wanted to get out of the kitchen scene, and take a restaurant experience and make it mobile. We wanted to be the total opposite of the ‘roach coach’ food you see at industrial parks,” says Bonney.
WHAT: Restaurant quality, scratch-made fare, served truck-side. Look for the fried pickles and pulled pork.
WHEN & WHERE: Food Truck Friday and anywhere else. “We go [wherever] we are invited,” says Bonney.
FOLLOW: facebook.com/aiolifoodtruck
WHO: Tim Bonner and Hala Rihan-Bonner started the truck in March 2014.
WHO: Opened by Lehigh University in 2014, this woodburning pizza cart—it’s not quite a truck—parks up the hill from the university’s FÜD Truk and pops up all over the Valley at special events, including Musikfest. The name is a nod to the University’s founding date and its academic ties to math, science and engineering.
THE TAZA TRUCK 1865 HOUSE
WHAT: “Taza” means “fresh” in Arabic, and the edict is taken seriously for this duo’s Egyptian fare, much of it vegetarian and gluten free; the meat is halal. Think shawarma, kushari and a seriously garlicky hummus. And Egyptian falafel, which contains fava beans, not chickpeas, “with lots of herbs such as dill, parsley and cilantro and over six different spices, to the point that when you break open a falafel, it is green inside from the herbs,” says Rihan-Bonner.
WHERE & WHEN: May–October: Thursdays at the Bethlehem Farmers’ Market and the Macungie Farmers’ Market. They’re also a permanent vendor in the Easton Public Market at 325 Northampton St.
FOLLOW: thetazatruck.com
WHAT: Ten-inch, wood-fired pizzas with sauce made from scratch, including a seasonal farmers’ market option, with homemade mozzarella and fresh, local ingredients.
WHERE & WHEN: March-November: Mon., Wed., Thurs. 10:30 a.m.–2 p.m., on E. Packer Ave. “by the flagpole,” says Dan Burke of Lehigh Dining Services.
FOLLOW: twitter.com/1865houseofpi
TRIXIE’S TREATS
OF PI
WHO: Tracey Mathews shrewdly set up her truck, Stella, outside Volpe’s Sports Bar in Allentown on Super Bowl Sunday 2013, and gave away cupcakes. A business was born, bearing her nickname from when she worked at PJ Whelihan’s.
WHAT: Cupcakes, triple threat brownies, pecan pie bread pudding and other sweets. Best-sellers are banana fluffer nutter and salted caramel pretzel cupcakes.
WHERE & WHEN: Food Truck Friday, and around the Lehigh Valley. You’ll also find her at Trixie’s Oven Lovin’ at Buzz by FoC (Full of Crepe), 21 S. Second St., Easton.
FOLLOW: trixiestruck.com facebook.com/trixies.treats ■ s
INSIDE DISH
BEHIND THE MENU
Mucho Mexican Fare, Margaritas and Tequila
TEQUILA HOUSE FIESTA OLÉ
BY CARRIE HAVRANEK PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALISON CONKLIN
A spirit of abundance pervades Tequila House Fiesta Olé in Whitehall. Whether it’s the nearly 30 margaritas, the nearly 50 tequilas (and various permutations of flights you can order) or the pages and pages of tacos, enchiladas, burritos and fajitas on the menu, Tequila House Fiesta Olé has just about every craving—and crowd—covered.
“We aren’t just for families, or just a bar, or just for parties of big groups; we want to welcome everyone,” says chef and manager Miguel de la Torre, who’s been running the restaurant for the past four of its seven years of operation.
The unassuming atmosphere reflects this ideal. The décor is basic, hinting at its South-ofthe-Border status without being ostentatious about it—a welcome change from the Mexican restaurants (chains, mostly) that Americans are familiar with. Floors have terra cotta tiles, the colors are muted red and green (two of the three colors on the Mexican flag) and the stampedmetal lampshades at each table feel rustic. Make no mistake, though, this is a Mexican spot—with Tex-Mex, American Mex and Mexican-Mexican thrown in. I’m not going to call the latter “authentic” Mexican, because I’m a white gal from New Jersey and who am I to make such claims? I’ll leave those ideas to de la Torre, a Mexico City native who says his childhood was spent “always in the kitchen.” Nevertheless, invoking questions about authenticity, when it comes to food, typically makes for some interesting debates. And we had some of those conversations.
The first item you’re likely to order at Tequila House is the guacamole. “Everyone gets it, it’s so popular,” says Zami Soto, de la Torre’s fiancée and assistant manager. At Tequila House, it’s available in a few different ways—the classic (as you would expect), a version that’s tropical, with
mango and cucumber, and another one called “red” guacamole, with roasted garlic, olive oil and chipotle. These days, most decent Mexican restaurants are preparing guacamole tableside, which is as much for theatrics as it is to vouch for its veracity. But at Tequila House, it’s a major production, wheeled out on a cart that’s loaded with ingredients waiting to be incorporated into the enormous molcajete—that hollowed-out volcanic rock that guacamole is often served in.
The guacamole represents the kitchen’s ethos; de la Torre stresses that everything is made fresh, daily. “No freezers,” he says. “We want to provide
the kind of upscale service that you would expect in restaurants in Mexico City, which is a big, bustling city like New York, full of good places to eat,” he says.
We discuss the finer points of avocados in general and guacamole specifically. He notes that they don’t include lime in guacamole. I’ve heard more than once that omitting lime is more authentic.
“No lime. It tastes better without it,” he assures me.
The lime, then, is some kind of American twist, he says. I guessed that it was incorporated for restaurant service to keep the guacamole green—
TRIVIA
Tequila House Fiesta Olé and Fiesta Olé in Emmaus have “different ownership under the same company,” says de la Torre. They are related, but aren’t exactly the same restaurants, despite sharing similar names.
RESERVATIONS: Recommended for the weekend; you can call or use OpenTable
SPECIALS: Live entertainment Friday and Saturday nights, starting around 6 p.m. Fridays feature Mexican guitar music and boleros; Saturdays are geared toward Latin pop music covers and originals.
WHAT TO ORDER: The copious amount of margaritas and tequilas should keep you busy for a while. The house piña colada is served right in a fresh pineapple, and they do a twist on the mojito, but with mezcal. In terms of food? Fish tacos, the shrimp tequila and the queso fundido are all popular, along with the salmon glazed with agave.
SPECIALS: Happy Hour: Mon.-Fri. 4:30-6 p.m. and Sat.-Sun. 3:30-5:30 p.m., house margaritas and house wines are $4.50. Food specials vary from half-price enchiladas to Taco Tuesday—tacos are $2.50 each.
Ahi Tuna Tacos arugula, cucumber, avocado, soy sauce and mango pico de gallo.
INSIDE DISH
the acid inhibits browning. (It’s also a reason why you add lemon juice to sliced apples when you are making a pie.) He agrees, but says “you should try it with olive oil, it’s even better.” (Yes, indeed. This is why avocado toast is a thing. With salt and pepper.)
The menu is expansive. “People don’t think it’s a real Mexican place if the menu is short,” he says. It includes all the things you would expect, from tacos and enchiladas to fajitas (served tableside and sizzling, of course) and burritos. This, despite the fact that de la Torre repeatedly says that people think that Mexican food is just “burritos and hard-shell tacos. You don’t find hard-shell tacos in Mexico. Just soft corn ones, sometimes flour,” he says. When I joke with him about the fact that there are both tacos and burritos on the menu, he says, “Yes, but they are delicious, and we use corn tortillas.” Take, for instance, Tacos Gobernador—four corn tortillas with shrimp, roasted poblano peppers, sautéed onions and melted Chihuahua cheese, served with pico de gallo, refried beans, avocado and lemon. As for the burrito, he cites Burrito Yucatan as the most popular—it includes grilled chicken, zucchini, onions, tomatoes, sour cream, refried beans and Mexican rice. And the whole thing is topped with green salsa and melted cheese. “My favorite? It’s this one,” he says, pointing to Burrito de la Roqueta, which comes with either chicken or
Miguel de la
Chef & Manager
Zami Soto Assistant Manager
pork, melted cheese, pico de gallo and mole—you know, that signature smoky-sweet-spicy Mexican sauce. The favorites mostly stay intact; he says he tweaks the menu “every six or seven months; only a few things change.”
De la Torre oversees the menu development, but he’s not in the kitchen anymore, having left much of that behind in his native Mexico City, where it was not uncommon for him to cook for banquets with thousands of people. “It was crazy, very crazy,” he says. Some of the house specialties are worth checking out. People can’t seem to get enough of the ahi tuna tacos, with a mango pico de gallo, he says. And the shrimp tequila, although an appetizer, is substantive. The seafood is sautéed with red onions and garlic, plus a bit of chile guajillo and tequila, and served with warm corn tortillas and the house green sauce, a jalapeño emulsion. The salmon glazed with agave and a blend of chipotle and cinnamon is a signature. In fact, all four signature dishes, which also include spinach enchiladas, chicken stuffed with shrimp and roasted tilapia, offer some customization: you can choose the sauce you want it served with, such as mango lobster jalapeño, creamy chipotle or roasted poblano pumpkin.
Another aspect of Tequila House Fiesta Olé that may surprise you is its seemingly endless margarita list. They’re made with all fresh juices, in house, and many with house-infused tequilas.
They feature some inventive combinations, whether it’s elderflower liqueur, hibiscus, limoncello or tamarind. (It’s not too dissimilar from the martini menus you would see in restaurants in the 2000s.) In conversation, de la Torre mentions that margaritas aren’t very Mexican—you don’t often see people drinking them. Again, it’s a bit of a head scratcher, how things translate to American palates. The origins of the drink are even more circumspect, with many different stories floating around as to who invented the margarita, where and when. Whatever the truth is, he is a purist about it. “I prefer mine on the rocks, always,” he says. And you can’t have a margarita without tequila, and there’s no shortage of that. The re-branding of this restaurant as Tequila House Fiesta Olé means you’ve got about 46 different ones, and they’re available in various kinds of flights.
If you need to finish the evening with something sweet, traditional flan, vanilla custard with caramel, is on the menu, and so are fried ice cream and churros—all typical Mexican treats. (He singles out the fried ice cream as especially popular.) For something completely indulgent, the crepes dulce de leche are a French-Mexican mash-up, with pecans, powdered sugar, dulce de leche and chocolate sauce—served with vanilla ice cream. “What can I say? We have lots of options. Everything is very good,” says de la Torre. ■ s
Shrimp Tequila red onions, garlic, chile guajillo and tequila
Traditional Guacamole Avocado, onion, cilantro, tomato and jalapeño to taste. Served with chips.
Torre
B Breakfast
Br Brunch
L Lunch
D Dinner
LN Late Night
DINING GUIDE
CC Major Credit Cards
RS Reservations Suggested
) Reservations Required
Reservations Accepted Online
Handicapped Accessible
BERKS
Gracie’s 21st Century Café and Catering dining restaurant with full service catering avail off premises. 1534 Manatawny Rd., Pine Forge, gracies21stcentury.com, D $$$,
Judy’s On Cherry Unique hearth-fired cuisine in a warm, uptown atmosphere. Lunch Tues.-Fri. 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m., Dinner
Tues.-Thurs. 5-9:30 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 5-10 p.m., closed Sun. and Mon. 332 Cherry St., Reading, 610.374.8511, judysoncherry.com, L $, D $$, CC, RS z
BUCKS
McCoole’s at the Historic Red Lion Inn dining room, martini lounge and bar in a beautifully restored Inn from the 1700s. Monthly featured wines and brews from their own Red Lion Brewery. Outdoor patio dining is available in season. Also offering a comple mentary door-to-door and hotel shuttle service within a five-mile radius of the restaurant to bar and restaurant patrons, as well as private events at McCoole’s Arts & Events Place. Sun. 11:30 a.m.–9:30 p.m., Wed.–Thurs. 11:30 a.m.–10 p.m., Fri.–Sat. 11:30 a.m.–11:30 p.m. 4 S. Main St., Quak ertown, 215.538.1776, mccoolesredlioninn.com, $-$$$, CC
CARBON
Slopeside Pub & Grill Offers indoor dining in addi tion to our ever-popular outdoor dining! Guests will enjoy delicious food, tasty drinks and unforgettable scenic views all year round. Sun.–Thurs. 11:30 a.m.–9 p.m., Fri.–Sat. 11:30 a.m.–10 p.m. 1660 Blue Mountain Dr., Palmerton, 610.824.1557, skibluemt.com, B, Br, L D & LN $-$$$, CC
LEHIGH
187 Rue Principale Modernist French restaurant utilizing local and sustainable products in its creative ever-changing menu. Sun.-Mon. 8 a.m.-3 p.m., Tues.-Sat. 8 a.m.-10 p.m. 187 Main St., Emmaus , 610.928.0418, 187rueprincipale.com, Br, L, D, LN $$-$$$, RS, CC
Aladdin Restaurant Family owned and operated for over 30 years. Serving a variety of authentic Middle Eastern cuisine from homemade grape leaves to delicious shish kabobs. Lunch: Tues.-Sat. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Dinner: Tues.-Sat. 5-10 p.m., Sun. 4-9 p.m. 651 Union Blvd., Allentown, 610.437.4023, aladdinlv.com, L & D $$, RS, CC, BYOB
Allentown Brew Works Award winning, environmen tally friendly restaurant and brewery. Family owned and oper ated since 2007. Sun.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-midnight, Fri.-Sat. 11-2 a.m. 812 W. Hamilton St., Allentown, 610.433.7777, thebrewworks. com, Br, L, D & LN $$, CC
Bay Leaf New American and Asian cuisine served in a casual yet upscale environment. Lunch Mon.-Fri. 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m., Dinner Mon.-Sat. 5-10 p.m. 935 West Hamilton St., Allentown 610.433.4211, allentownbayleaf.com,
DINING GUIDE
The Grille at Bear Creek Mountainside dining featuring continental cuisine with a Pennsylvania twist. Open daily. Seasonal outdoor dining. Sun.-Thurs. 4-11 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 4 p.m.2 a.m. 101 Doe Mountain Ln., Macungie, 610.641.7149, bcmountainresort.com, L & D $$, LN $, CC
The Hamilton Kitchen & Bar The Hamilton features seasonal American cuisine from regional classics to favorites from the family dinner table. Seasonal outdoor dining. Mon.-Thurs. 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri. 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.-11 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.-9 p.m. 645 W. Hamilton St., Allentown, 610.433.3535, thehamiltonkitchen.com, BR, L & D $$, CC, RS,
Hop’s Fogelsville Hotel Casual, comfortable pub built in 1798 with three separate dining areas and outside seasonal patio. Diverse menu with huge bottle and draft selections. Mon. 4 p.m.-midnight, Tues.-Sat. 11:15-2 a.m., Sun. noon-midnight. 7921 Main St., Fogelsville, 610.395.3999, hopsfogelsville.com, L, D & LN $$, RS, CC
Hops @ The Paddock Voted friendliest neighborhood place. Stop by and you’ll see why. Mon. 4 p.m.-2 a.m., Tues.Sat. 11-2 a.m., Sun. noon-2 a.m. 1945 W. Columbia St., S. Whitehall, 610.437.3911, hopspaddock.com, L, D & LN $, RS, CC
Hunan Springs Asian Restaurant Authentic Asian cuisine with full-bar service and a fine dining atmosphere. Mon.-Thurs. 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri. 11:30 a.m.-10:30 p.m., Sat. noon-10:30 p.m., Sun. noon-9 p.m. 4939 Hamilton Blvd., Wescosville, 610.366.8338, hunansprings.com, L $, D $$, CC
Italiano Delite Ristorante An eatery where the food’s good, the atmosphere’s comfortable and jeans-worthy, and the service feels like family. Live music Fri.-Sat., Thurs. Karaoke. Mon.-Thurs. 10 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri.-Sun. 10 a.m.-11 p.m. 1375 Chestnut St., Emmaus. 610.967.9000, L $, D $$, CC, RS z
KOMÉ Fine Japanese Cuisine and Hibachi A contemporary Japanese cuisine and hibachi. Extraordinary sushi, non-sushi dishes served in a contemporary, yet sensual atmosphere. Lunch: Sat.-Sun. 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Dinner: Sun.-Thurs. 3-10 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 3-11 p.m. The Promenade Shops at Saucon Valley, 610.798.9888, komerestaurant.com L & D $, CC, RS
Matey’s Famous Steaks & Pizza Casual, family-friendly dining featuring cheesesteaks, pizza, salads, wraps and milkshakes. Fun, 50s-style décor! Mon.-Fri. 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Sat. noon-8 p.m. 1305 Broadway, Fountain Hill, 610.866.6022, mateysfamous.com L & D $, CC
Melt Offering a sumptuous menu of contemporary Italian fare in its breathtaking 350-seat restaurant. Lunch: Mon.-Sun. 11 a.m.4 p.m., Dinner: Mon.-Thurs. 4-10 p.m., Fri-Sat. 4-11 p.m., Sun. 4-9 p.m. The Promenade Shops at Saucon Valley, 610.798.9000, meltgrill.com, L $$, D $$$, LN, CC, RS (Thurs.-Sat. starting at 4 p.m.)
Morgan’s Great cuisine in a beautiful setting. Owner Blake Morgan serves breakfast, lunch and dinner to meet all of your dining needs. Mon.-Sat. 7 a.m.-9 p.m. 3079 Willow St., Allentown, 610.769.4100, morgansrest.net, L & D $, CC, RS
Pickles Steak House Casual dining at its best. More than 22 great beers on tap and an array of menu items from our famous steaks to brunch on the weekends. Sun.-Thurs., 10:45 a.m.10 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 10:45 a.m.-11 p.m. 3941 Chestnut St., Emmaus, 610.966.1996, eatatpickles.com, L&D $$, CC z Pistachio Bar & Grille Big city atmosphere, fabulous martini bar, new American cuisine with Mediterranean and Italian influences. Sat and Sun brunch. Sun.-Thurs. 11:30 a.m-10 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m., Sun. Brunch: 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m. 341 S. Cedar Crest Blvd., Allentown, 610.435.7007 pistachiogrille.com L $, D $$, LN, CC ) (for parties of six or more),
Roar Social House Steaks, seafood and classic American cuisine in a 1920s-themed restaurant. Lunch: Mon.-Fri. 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m., Dinner: Mon.-Thurs. 4-10 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 4-11 p.m. 732 Hamilton St., Allentown, 610.434.1230, roarallentown.com, D $$$, RS, CC
Roma Ristorante Casual fine dining with full bar. Experience Roma Ristorante, tying in Old Rome with the new. Pasta, steaks, chops and seafood. Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.-9 p.m. 925 Airport Center Dr., Airport Shopping Center, Allentown, 610.841.7662, romapa.com, L $$, D $$, CC )
Saranda’s on Broadway Take a trip to the countryside of France without leaving the Lehigh Valley. Family-owned and –operated, Saranda’s works tirelessly to produce the finest French cuisine. Lunch: Tues.-Fri. 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Dinner: Tues.-Thurs. 4-9 p.m., Fri- Sat. 4-10 p.m., Bar: Tues.-Sat. open late with bar menu available. Brunch: Sun. 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Mon. closed but available for private parties. Please call for more information. 1028 Broadway, Fountain Hill, 610.861.8181, sarandasonbroadway.com, Br, L, D & LN $$-$$$, RS, CC,
Savory Grille Savory Grille is the expression of the culinary passion of Shawn and Dorothy Doyle, husband and wife chefs in residence. Dinner: Wed.-Sat. 4:30-10 p.m., Sun. 1-8 p.m. 2934 Seisholtzville Rd., Macungie 610.845.2010, savorygrille.com, D $$$, RS, CC ) z
Taste of Italy Ristorante Visit Little Italy without the drive. Offering a full variety of Italian foods from gourmet pizza to veal, chicken, pasta and seafood. Great family dining. Full wine list and cocktails served. Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.-9 p.m. 1860 Catasauqua Rd., Allentown 610.266.8011, tasteofitalypa. com, L $, D $$, CC, RS z
Tequila House Fiesta Olé Sun.-Mon. noon-9:30 p.m., Tues.-Wed. noon-10 p.m., Thurs. noon-11 p.m., Fri.-Sat. noonmidnight. 1808 MacArthur Rd., Whitehall, 484.664.7109, fiestaoleonline.com, L, D & LN $$, RS, CC
Torre Classic Mexican cuisine with a modern twist in a fun, familyfriendly atmosphere. Enjoy Happy Hour gathered around our three-story tequila tower. Sun. 10:30 a.m.-9 pm., Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-11 p.m. 2960 Center Valley Pkwy., Center Valley, 610.841.9399, torrerestaurant.com, Br, L, D & LN $$, RS, CC (Thurs.-Sat. starting at 4 p.m.)
The Trapp Door Gastropub Upscale food in a fun, relaxed atmosphere with an extensive craft beer list. Brunch: Sat.-Sun. 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Dinner: Tues.-Sat. 4 p.m.-midnight. 4226 Chestnut St., Emmaus, 610.965.5225, thetrappdoorgastropub. com, Br, D & LN $$$, RS, CC
Wert’s Café Homemade goodness served in a friendly atmosphere. The perfect stop for lunch or dinner. Mon.Thurs. 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-10 p.m. 515 N. 18th St., Allentown, 610.439.0951, wertscafe.com, L & D $, CC
White Orchids Thai Cuisine Authentic Thai cuisine in a contemporary and relaxed dining atmosphere. Signature seafood dishes, house specialties and classic Thai entrées. New bar and lounge area. Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Sun. noon-9 p.m, The Promenade Shops at Saucon Valley, 2985 Center Valley Pkwy., Center Valley, 610.841.7499, whiteorchidsthaicuisine.com, L & D $$, CC ) z
Yianni’s Taverna & Euro Lounge From our seafood (which is flown in from around the world), to our homemade gyros and vegetarian specialities, to our Greek honey and home-grown herbs everything is extraordinary. We keep preparation simple to keep the true integrity of the flavors at the heart of the Mediterranean diet, which is our way of life. Mon.-Thurs. 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.-9 p.m. 3760 Old Philadelphia Pike, Bethlehem, 610.867.8821, yiannistaverna.com, Br & L $, D $$, CC, RS
Youell’s Oyster House “Sea to Table Since 1895.” The region’s seafood destination. Minutes from PPL Center events. Featuring Maryland crabmeat dishes, authentic paella and cioppino. Raw bar with varietal oysters, seafood towers and ceviche. Directly and sustainably sourced seafood delivered 7 days a week. Mon.-Sat. 4-10 p.m., Sun. 3-8 p.m. 2249 Walnut St., Allentown, 610.439.1203, youellsoysterhouse.com, D $$, RS, CC
DINING GUIDE
NORTHAMPTON
1741 on the Terrace Casual farm-to-table menu. Exquisite view. Wine Spectator Award of Excellence winner. Sun-.Thurs. 5-9 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 5-10 p.m. 437 Main St., Bethlehem, 610.625.2219, 1741ontheterrace.com, D $$, RS, CC,
A Ca Mia Unique, homemade, Italian cuisine made with fresh flavorful ingredients; served in a family friendly atmosphere. Tues. 3:30-10 p.m., Wed.-Sat. 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Sun. noon-9 p.m. 4330 Lehigh Dr (Rte. 248), Walnutport, 610.760.3207, acamiapa.com, L & D $$, RS, CC, BYOB
Apollo Grill Bistro-style restaurant encouraging a grazing dining experience. We’re comfortable, friendly, sophisticated and lively. Tues.-Sat. 11 a.m-10 p.m. Bar open late. 85 W. Broad St., Bethlehem 610.865.9600, apollogrill.com, L $, D $$, LN, CC, RS z
Bethlehem Brew Works Award winning, environmentally friendly restaurant and brewery. Family owned and operated since 1998. Sun.-Sat. 11-2 a.m., kitchen open weekdays 11 a.m.-11 p.m., weekends 11 a.m.-midnight. 569 Main St., Bethlehem, 610.882.1300, thebrewworks.com, Br, L, D & LN $$, CC
Billy’s Downtown Diner Not your ordinary diner. We’re giving you just a taste of what you can expect. For all this and much more, visit us in Historic Downtown Bethlehem for breakfast, lunch or something sweet. Open daily Mon.-Sun. 7 a.m.-3 p.m. 10 E. Broad St., Bethlehem, 610.867.0105, billysdiner.com, B & L $, CC z
blue grillhouse | wine bar Prime steaks and chops, and seafood flown in daily. More than 250 wines. Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.-9 p.m. 4431 Easton Ave., Bethlehem. 610.691.8400, bluegrillhouse.com, Br & L $$, D $$$, RS, CC z
Bolete Restaurant & Inn Bolete is a fine dining restaurant where our care and passion for what we do is evident in each carefully and skillfully prepared dish. Tues -Thurs. 5-10 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 5-11 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.-3 p.m 1740 Seidersville Rd., Bethlehem 610.868.6505, boleterestaurant.com, Br & L $$, D $$$, (tavern menu also), CC, RS z
The Bookstore Speakeasy Step back in time at The Bookstore, a 1920’s speakeasy. Tues.-Sat. 5 p.m.-2 a.m. 336 Adams St. (near 4 th St.), Bethlehem, 610.867.1100, thebookstorespeakeasy.com, D & LN $$, RS, CC,
The Brick Wood-fired pizzeria, restaurant and bar. Sun.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 11-1 a.m. 1 W. Broad St., Bethlehem, 610.419.1141 thebrickpa.com, B, L, D & LN $-S$, CC,
The Broadway Social A place where whimsy and gastronomical delights go hand in hand. Consider this the modern American gastro pub where the food is as important as the drink menu. Experience the perfect blend of a bar and a restaurant where the casual-meets-refined atmosphere welcomes both the beer drinker and the wine connoisseur. A great place for fussy eaters and foodies alike and a charming neighborhood watering hole. Tues.-Sun. 11-2 a.m. 217 Broadway, Bethlehem, 610.868.2555, thebroadwaysocial.com L, D & LN $$, RS, CC
Copperhead Grille The Lehigh Valley’s premiere sports grille, offering signature homemade recipes. Mon.-Sat. 11 a.m.midnight, Sun. 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Two great locations, 5737 Rte. 378, Center Valley and 1731 Airport Rd., Allentown 610.403.4600, copperheadgrille.com, B $, L & D $$, CC, RS z
Corked Up beat/high energy Vegas-style wine bar & steak house located in downtown Bethlehem. Offering 32 wines by the glass, 24 tap beers, 1 great menu. Mon.-Thurs. 3:30-10 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 3:30 p.m.-midnight, Sun. 3:30-9 p.m. 515 Main St., Bethlehem, 610.625.9463, corkedwinebar.com, L, D & LN $$, RS, CC
DeLorenzo’s Italian Restaurant Homestyle Italian cuisine in an elegant atmosphere. On- and off-premises catering available. Tues.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Sun. noon-9 p.m. 3417 Sullivan Trl., Easton 610.438.6026, delorenzosrestaurant.com, L & D $$, RS, CC z
DiMaio’s Italian Ristorante & Pizzeria Family-owned and operated since 1985. Serving southern Italian cuisine in a friendly and casual family atmosphere. Known for our homemade bread, chicken francaise and DiMaio’s clam sauce. Celebrating our 30th Anniversary. Daily lunch and dinner specials. Mon -Thurs. 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Seasonal outdoor dining. 27 Main St., Hellertown, 610.838.8004, dimaios.net, L & D $, CC, BYOB z )(for parties over 8)
Diner 248 Fine diner-ing at its best. Handmade, fresh food, craft beer, libations and desserts. Call ahead sitting available. Sun.-Thurs. 6 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 6 a.m.-11 p.m. 3701 Nazareth Rd., Easton, 610.252.4300, diner248.com, B, BR, L, D & LN $, CC
EDGE No need to go to NYC! EDGE is the scene for fine cuisine, fab food and hip lounge. Dinner Mon.-Sat. starting at 5 p.m. 74 W. Broad St., Bethlehem, 610.814.0100, edgerestaurant.net, D $$, LN, RS, CC
Emeril’s Chop House Enjoy distinctive culinary creations with prime meat and savor fine wine with unmatched service. Sun.-Thurs. 5-10 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 5-11 p.m. 77 Sands Blvd., Bethlehem, 877.726.3777, pasands.com/dining/emerils-chophouse.html, D $$$, RS, CC
Hampton Winds Enjoy leisurely gourmet dining at reasonable prices in this handsome restaurant showcasing the talents of the college’s culinary arts students. Lunch: Mon.-Fri. 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Dinner: Mon.-Fri. 5-7:30 p.m. Northampton Community College, 3835 Green Pond Rd., Bethlehem 610.861.4549, northampton.edu/campus-life-and-housing/campus-dining/ hampton-winds-restaurant.htm L à la carte, D $35 prix fix for 5 courses, CC, BYOB, L-RS, D-RR z
Jenny’s Kuali Offering Malaysian cuisine, vegetarian entrees and noodle dishes freshly prepared in house every day. Mon.Wed. 11 a.m.-8 p.m., Thurs.-Sat., 11 a.m.-9 p.m., 102 E. 4th St., Bethlehem, 610.758.8088, jennyskuali.com, $, RS, CC, BYOB
Jumbars Great food. Great atmosphere. Everything made fresh to order. Desserts are delectable! Tues.-Fri. 8 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Sat.-Sun. 7:30 a.m.-2 p.m. 1342 Chelsea Ave., Bethlehem, 610.866.1660, jumbars.com, B & L $$, CC, BYOB
Leaf Restaurant & Cigar Bar Global fusion cuisine on the finer side of casual. Fresh, local and sustainable menu. Full bar with over 90 craft beer selections. Sun., Tues. & Wed. 11:30 a.m.10 p.m., Thurs.-Sat. 11:30 a.m.-midnight. 90 Mort Dr., Easton, 610.559.1336, leafcigarbar.com, L, D, $$, CC, RS,
The Market Gourmet Express All of your favorites in one place. Nathan’s hot dogs, burgers, pizza, salad, sushi, ice cream and coffee. Open 7 days a week. Hours differ per restaurant. 77 Sands Blvd., Bethlehem 877.726.3777, pasands.com/dining/ the-market.html, L, D & LN $, CC
Maxim’s 22 Maxim’s 22 bistro and brasserie is the latest from the award winning Sette Luna team. Known for comfortable french fare in a casual setting. Tues.-Thurs. 5-9:30 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 11:30 a.m.-midnight, Sun. 10 a.m.-9:00 p.m. 322 Northampton St., Easton, 610.252.2622, maxims22.com, Br, L, D, LN, $$-$$$, CC, RS,
Mayflower Lunch Real food from Mom’s kitchen. This cozy neighborhood staple is famous for savory omelets and homemade Greek yogurt. Mon.-Fri. 6 a.m.-3 p.m., Sat. 6 a.m.-2 p.m., 622 W. Broad. St., Bethlehem, 610.691.8111, mayflowerlunch.com, B, Br & L $
McCarthy’s Restaurant & Red Stag Pub and Whiskey Bar
The taste of Ireland and the British Isles behind Donegal Square right off Main Street. Mon.-Tues. 10 a.m-4 p.m., Wed.Sun. 10 a.m-10 p.m. 534 Main St., Bethlehem, 610.861.7631, redstagpub.com, B, L, D & LN $, RS, CC
Mitzi’s Table Retro dining—all day brunch—classic comfort food kicked up with regional & ethnic specialties. Wed.-Fri. 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Sat-Sun 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. 3650 Linden St., Bethlehem, 610.730.1670, mitzistable.com, B, Br & L $, CC, BYOB
20oz. Prime Porterhouse Steak (also available: Prime NY Strip & Ribeye)
Sea to Table Since 1895
DINING GUIDE
Molinari’s Authentic Italian food—simple, fresh, flavorful. Indulge in freshly made pasta, pizza in the Neapolitan style, gelato and sorbetto made on premises, and Italian wines and craft beers. Mon.-Wed. 5-9 p.m., Thurs.-Sat. 5-10 p.m. 322 E. 3rd St., Bethlehem, 610.625.9222, molinarimangia.com, D, $$, CC
Ocean With an eclectic, diverse menu and a New York restaurant and lounge feel, Ocean is the place to experience before a State show or for a romantic dinner in Easton’s growing new restaurant scene. Tues.-Thurs. 5-10 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 5 p.m.-midnight. 235 Ferry St , Easton, 610.559.7211, ocean235.com, D $$ & LN, CC, RS, RS z
Prime Steak House Serving Premium Black Angus steaks, fresh seafood, chicken and pasta. Extended wine list. Sun.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-11 p.m. 325 Stoke Park Rd., Bethlehem, 610.882.4070, primestkhouse.com, L & D $$, CC, RS z
Sette Luna Rustic Italian featuring wood oven pizza, homemade pasta, alfresco dining. The enoteca boasts the Valley’s most extensive wine and beer list. Private wine cellar and live jazz every weekend. Mon.-Thurs. 11:30-9:30 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 11:30 a.m.-10:30 p.m. Sun. 10:30 a.m.-9:00 p.m., 219 Ferry St., Easton, 610.253.8888, setteluna.com, Br, L & D $$, CC z
Social Still Craft distillery, tasting room, tours, bar and American style tapas restaurant. Wed.-Thurs. 4-10 p.m., Fri.-Sat. noon-11 p.m. 530 E. 3rd St., Bethlehem, 610.625.4548, socialstill.com, Br, L & D $$, RS, CC
Steelworks Buffet & Grill Experience a variety of fresh culinary dishes from around the world at Steelworks Buffet & Grill. Featuring live action cooking and a fullystocked bar, guests will enjoy a variety of fresh international culinary dishes at the all-you-can-eat buffet or choose their favorites from the a la carte menu, including artisan pizza, a pasta station, sushi, fresh-carved meats, and more. Sun.-Sat. 6-2 a.m. 77 Sands Blvd., Bethlehem, 610.419.5555, villaenterprises.com B, L, & D $$ , CC
Stefano’s Italian Restaurant “Traditional Italian Taste, Modern Italian Flair” Family owned and operated in the Lehigh Valley for over 26 years. Take-Out, Dine-In, Lounge and Banquet Facilities Available. Mon. 4-9 p.m., Tues.-Thurs. and Sun. 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-11 p.m. 2970 Linden St., Bethlehem, 610.867.7775, Fax: 610 866 6081 stefanosrest.com, L & D $, CC ) z
Stefano’s Sicilian Grille Italian restaurant with a Sicilian flair. Family-oriented with a casual attitude. Tues.-Thurs. 4-10 p.m., Fri.-Sat. noon-11 p.m., Sun. noon-9 p.m., Mon. 4-9 p.m. (no pizza). 5364 Nor Bath Blvd. (Rte. 329), Northampton, 610.262.8760, stefanossiciliangrille.com, L & D $-$$, RS, CC
Tap Room Vintage 1920’s atmosphere overlooking historic Main Street. Award winning restaurant. Live Jazz every Thurs. & Sun.-Sat 6 a.m.-10 p.m. 437 Main St., Bethlehem, 610.625.2219, hotelbethlehem.com B, L, D, Br, & LN $$, RS, CC,
Thai Thai II Tues.-Thurs. 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m., Sun. 1:30-8:45 p.m. 509 Main St., Bethlehem 610.868.1919, facebook.com/thaithaiII, L & D $$, RS, CC, BYOB z
Twisted Olive A casual bistro style restaurant with a world twist. Mon. 4-10 p.m., Tues.-Sat. 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m. 51 W. Broad St., Bethlehem, twistedolivebethlehem.com, 610.419.1200, L & D $$, RS, CC
Valenca Alfresco European dining in Downtown Center Square Easton, offering a full bar, Wine Cellar, and private rooms Mon.Wed. 4-10 p.m., Thurs. noon-10 p.m., Fri. noon-11 p.m., Sat. 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.-9 p.m. 64-66 Center Square, Easton, 610.829.0360 valencaonthesquare.com L & D $$, RS, CC
The Widow’s Tavern and Grille Casual dining with an upscale feel. American cuisine with an Asian flair to please any palate. Beautiful, friendly and comfortable atmosphere. Entertainment every Wed. starting
General Manager John Reichard recommends enjoying the cocktail with seafood. Choose from one of their shrimp or fish entrées or one of their steaks.
DRINK THIS LOCAL DRINK FAVES
Bloody Mary
MARBLEHEAD CHOWDER HOUSE
BY KRISTEN RINALDI | PHOTO BY COLIN COLEMAN
This rumored “cure-all” does more than just alleviate hangovers; it’s worth the sober-sip any day of the week. The Bloody Mary at Marblehead Chowder House has been on the menu since the restaurant’s opening in 1996 and has undeniably become one of their best sellers.
The drink features a blend of spices mixed with horseradish, tomato and Clamato juice (a portmanteau of “clam” and “tomato”). It is garnished with lemon and lime wedges, an olive and, of course, a celery stalk. The glass is rimmed with Old Bay seasoning, and Shrimp Cocktail can be added upon request.
Have you ever heard of a better way to get your veggies?
