Escape into tranquility at one of Wind Creek Bethlehem’s newest offerings, Spa at Wind Creek. At 14,000 square feet, Spa at Wind Creek is a full-service salon featuring ultra-luxe amenities including relaxation pools, swinging chairs over a wading pool, infrared saunas, aromatherapy steam rooms, breathtaking views of Bethlehem, and more. Come try it for yourself.
Scan for a list of services or call 484-777-7225 to make an appointment
In the Allentown community, we have been delivering babies since 1945. We are proud to continue to deliver the next generation of babies at our newly renovated, state-of-the-art, Women & Babies Pavilion at St. Luke’s Allentown Campus.
• Spacious private patient rooms with spa-like amenities
• Welcoming interior design with décor inspired by nature
• Personalized care team focused on your inpatient experience
• Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) with private bays designed to allow mothers to remain close to their baby during their stay
1736 Hamilton Street
Allentown, PA 18104
12 S TYLE SCENE
Events | Benefits
Galas | Parties
18 TH IS MONTH’S PICKS What We’re Loving Right Now
21 T RENDING NOW
News, Notes & Quotes
26 G ET THE GOODS Handmade Mystic: Healing Crystals & Jewelry
29 A SK THE EXPERT Breaking the Boundaries That Hold You Back
33 LI VING WELL WITH Prabha Sinha
40 5 THINGS
Steak and Frites
42 AT HOME WITH R OBERT RICH
52 I NSIDE A CLASSIC V ICTORIAN TOWNHOME In Allentown’s West Park Historic District
66 B EYOND THE MENU Panchitas Carnitas with Chef Frances Q. Mullen
68 I NSIDE DISH Cavallo’s
72 D RINK THIS K ahpuccino
Robert Rich, photographed by Andrew Tomasino
PHOTO BY MARCO CALDERON Step inside Alan Younkin and Michael Schelp's 1910 townhome, pg. 52
We hope you feel right at home with this edition, which year after year takes readers inside unique and noteworthy properties around the Lehigh Valley. This March, we are so excited to publish our "At Home with Robert Rich" feature! Turn to pg. 42 to get to know this remarkable local. Robert was introduced to us by one Rachel DiCarlo, the vice president of public relations for American Eagle and Aerie who graced our cover alongside husband, Franco, in May 2022. We were thrilled that Rachel wanted to connect us with her “fashion friend,” a fellow Lehigh Valley native. At the time, Robert had just published Winona, a coffee table book filled with photos of actress Winona Ryder, whom he considers a close pal. After years in New York City—many of which were spent working for Marc Jacobs as Director of Retail Stores and Vice President of Public Relations— Robert returned to the Valley during
the pandemic. We were lucky enough to photograph him at his home in historic Bethlehem. The property has been in his family for decades, and he’s been busy with renovations, making himself at home.
Then, tour a classic Victorian townhome in Allentown’s West Park Historic District. Alan Younkin and Michael Schelp purchased the property in late 2021 after falling in love with the area. The 2,300-square-foot home dates back to 1910 and is spread across four levels. On pg. 52, Alan and Michael share how they’ve preserved the beautiful parts of the home’s architecture while updating it to feel fresh and modern. Avid art collectors, the couple has filled the home with their own eclectic charm.
Don’t forget to go inside Cavallo’s on pg. 68, hear from Prabha Sinha on pg. 33, learn about the healing power of crystals on pg. 26 and so much more this month.
our publisher, Pam Deller, is looking forward to this month! pdeller@lehighvalleystyle.com
42
Getting
Choosing
40
I recently moved and am on a serious hunt for the perfect dining table for my new space!
W e have a kitchen renovation in the works and I would love to implement cool organization features in time for fall baking!
My dining room could use a refresh so I'm looking forward to making that happen!
President/CEO
Paul Prass
Vice President/COO
Lisa Prass
Publisher Pamela Deller
Editor-in-Chief
Kristen Wagner
Director of Creative Services
Mike Matuczinski
Graphic Designers
Eleanor Anderson, Thomas Körp, Elaine Wyborski
Corporate Marketing & Events Manager Jen Fronheiser
Marketing Advisors
Caroline Adams, Denise Lichty, Arielle Solliday, Pam Taylor
Contributing Writers
Alison Conklin, Susan Gottshall, Christine Krahling, Amy Unger, Daisy Willis
Contributing Photographers
Marco Calderon, Matthew Cannon, Alison Conklin, Andrew Tomasino
Proofreader
Lori McLaughlin
Accounting
Donna Bachman, Karina Ocasio, Sarah Varano
My home goal for the year is…
My dream would be to paint our downstairs a cozy coat of greige!
I am excited to pick out new art and frame more photos to hang throughout my home this year.
Three major projects for 2024: stone my foundation, and build a firepit and a walk-in shower. Easy!
My home to-do list is always too long! It’s filled with a new floor in the bedroom and painting jobs throughout, but the most important task is updating smoke alarms. Nothing more critical than this one!
ALISON CONKLIN
Contributing Photographer
I loved shooting Cavallo’s with the writer, Susan. We were treated like guests and ate our way through the multi-course meal. I think somewhere in the middle I totally forgot I was actually working—ha! It was such a special experience!
SUSAN GOTTSHALL
Contributing Writer
I met Shirley Cavallo in 2005 when I first wrote about her restaurant. I saw how her magnificent life force drove Cavallo’s. Sadly, she left this world in 2020, but how inspired I was to learn that her son, Brondo, carries on in her stead. The quirky elegance of this restaurant always fills me up. Thank you, Brondo, for ensuring her legacy lives on.
MARCO CALDERON
Contributing Photographer
My conversation with Prabha Sinha was a deep reminder of the importance of mental health.
CHRISTINE KRAHLING
Contributing Writer
While there are many serial entrepreneurs out there, what sets Elaine Zelker apart is her passion. Whether she's talking about her book, her fundraising efforts or her crocheting projects, her enthusiasm for all of her projects is what makes her stand out above others.
Located at Historic Hotel Bethlehem
1 | Taylor Van Kooten and Dalton Keba 2 | Alison and Geoff Conklin 3 | Ryan Drury and Mark Attix 4 | Nancy Saeger and Joe Kloss 5 | Beth Clausnitzer, Nick Bialis and Oriane Rembalsky 6 | Madison Van Duzer and Julie Huber 7 | Nancy Berrian and Donna Fazil 8 | Sam Blades 9 | Kelli Hertzog and Rob Pauloski 10 | Kelly Ronalds and Rodney Rivera 11 | Leslie Shotwell and Chuck Williams 12 | David Robertson and Jenna Silvius 13 | Caley Bittner and Michelle Schrader 14 | Lia and Gus Papasimakis Fraccaro 15 | Brittany Teta and Mallory Richards 16 | Andrea Brock and Brad Ruta
Were you photographed at an event?
March 8th - 22nd
Kids can stop in at KidsQuest during hours of operation for a coloring page. Once complete return it to KidsQuest to be placed inside our picture frame for all to see.
Each child will receive a special gift for participating and an entry into our grand prize giveaway for a free photo with the Easter Bunny and more.
(Don’t forget to bring your basket)
Saturday, March 30th | 10am
Grand Prize Basket awarded to the finder of the Golden Egg in each age category. (2) Golden Egg winners in each age group.
Saturday, March 23rd • 11am – 5pm
Sunday, March 24th 11am – 5pm
Saturday, March 30th 10am – 5pm
(Break at 2pm – 2:30pm each day)
PET PHOTOS WITH THE BUNNY
Saturday, March 30th • 3:30pm – 5pm
All photos by Dan’s Camera City
OutletsAtWindCreekBethlehem.com | Follow Us
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Were you photographed at an event?
Your kitchen is the heart of your home. Make it a place you love to be with help from the area’s leading fabricator of natural stone, quartz, porcelain and solid surface COUNTERTOPS for residential and commercial use.
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Easton-based design, styling and planning company Confetti Affairs celebrates the grand opening of their event center this month. The venue’s aesthetic is “industrial-chic,” promising a versatile space for any occasion. Find them on Cedarville Road! confetti_affairs
Fitness and wellness leader Heather Gidusko’s recent release, Girl with a Game Plan, is a practical and inspiring guide that shows readers how to create a personalized and effective game plan for achieving their goals. Former NFL Philadelphia Eagles cheerleader and founder of Sweat Like a Girl, a Nazareth-based fitness brand and gym that empowered women to embrace their strength and beauty, Gidusko’s passion for inspiring and motivating young female athletes is unwavering. heathergidusko.com
The official podcast of the Lehigh Valley International Airport, From the Flight Deck is hosted by Colin Riccobon, director of public and government affairs. Listen on Spotify! flyabe.com
Did you hear? Two legendary Lehigh Valley food and beverage brands joined forces in December! Jaindl Companies’ A-Treat Birch Beer is now available at all Yocco’s hot dog locations. yoccos.com | a-treat.com
In December, St. Luke’s University Health Network announced the launch of a pickleball facility at its SportsPlex in Allentown. The venue will feature 22 outdoor pickleball courts and will be home to Pickleball Lehigh Valley. mypickleballlv
As their Bethlehem location celebrates 20 years of business, Billy’s Downtown Diner kicked off 2024 by debuting a new logo. The restaurant also launched new retail and menu creations. billysdiner.com
SAVORYGRILLE SAVORYGRILLEPA
A culinary gem housed in the historic Seisholtzville Hotel, Savory Grille hearkens back to a time when fine dining was an experience to be savored. Nestled within the rolling countryside, this vintage inn has earned its reputation as one of the region’s premier dining establishments.
2934 Seisholtzville Rd., Macungie | 610.845.2010 | savorygrille.com
STEFANOSSICILIANGRILLE
Make plans to dine at Stefano’s Sicilian Grille in Northampton for good food, good drinks, good pizza and great times!
5364 Nor Bath Blvd., Northampton | 610.262.8760 | stefanossiciliangrille.com
Located at the historic Red Lion Inn in uptown Quakertown, McCoole’s blends a rich history and warm atmosphere with high-quality food to deliver a unique, upscale dining experience.
4 S. Main St., Quakertown | 215.538.1776 | mccoolesredlioninn.com
MADELINESRESTAURANT
Indulge in a romantic dinner at Madeline’s—an upscale haven for intimate dining. Explore a diverse wine selection or savor a handcrafted cocktail. Enjoy a delectable feast with the finest ingredients, perfect for celebrating with loved ones.
1250 Turnstone Dr., Fogelsville | 484.277.2250 | madelinesfogelsville.com
Following the closure of Melt Ice Cream Bar’s storefront in Phillipsburg, NJ, due to parking and traffic headaches, owner Wendy Parcell says they stumbled upon an appealing location in Easton. “We have always loved downtown Easton,” says Parcell. “We love seeing all the families come through after their dinner or visit from the Crayola Experience. We are excited to see what the summer has in store.” Parcell notes that Melt Ice Cream Bar makes ice cream a little differently than other shops, offering a line of mini and specialty sundaes. “Our specialty sundaes are what we are known for,” she says, calling the Sugar Me Up and the Cookie Monster their most popular. Fan-favorite mini sundaes include the Dirt & Worms and the Lil Reese. “Our mission is to be the ultimate dessert destination while creating a one-ofa-kind ice cream experience that delights and amazes our customers,” says Parcell. “We are committed to pushing the boundaries of traditional ice cream flavors and toppings, offering an array of unique and indulgent creations that leave a lasting impression.”
108 S. 3 rd St., Easton | 908.627.3833 | melticecreambar.com
Tiffany Sondergaard, CEO of --ts Brand Elevation, says her journey to launching ToastiQueen was driven by a passion for fostering supportive community for women in business. “My goal was to create a welcoming and inclusive space for businesswomen from all professions and industries to connect, engage in timely discussions and nurture both personal and professional growth,” she says. “I love that ToastiQueen has become the go-to platform for professionals switching gears, launching a product or gaining support for their charity partner.” Crediting Jessica Morrissey, owner of Toastique Bethlehem, with hosting their first season of events, Sondergaard is excited for Country Club Brewing to be their meetup spot for season two. “We’ve grown to need a much larger venue,” she shares, noting that the parking lot on-site was very appealing. “Our new venue offers state-of-the-art facilities, comfortable networking areas with plenty of elbow room and a large variety of tasty beverages from their in-house brewery and featured guest taps.” Wellness is a key element to ToastiQueen events, and with Roasted Bethlehem providing the catering, they’ll maintain a healthy menu featuring farm-to-table selections. Interested in getting involved? They are always welcoming new faces; tickets are available at tsbrandelevation.com. The meetups are LGBTQIA+ friendly and open to all genders. tsbrandelevation.com | tsondergaard
Did you hear? Punch Out Games recently moved to a new location and rebranded as Mystery Box Games. A place where you’ll always find something fun and obscure, co-owners Babs Vasconez and Mikus Matiss say their friend and resident drag queen Estee Lauderdale suggested the new name. The best part about their location? Parking! And plenty of it. “We told our gamers about free parking and they were on their way,” they share. Vasconez and Matiss have curated the space to be so cozy, guests will feel like they’re right at home. “We’ll sit down and play a game with you. We have met some amazing people and have stayed up till 3 a.m. playing long games with them,” they say. Once the kitchen is open, Mystery Box Games will offer affordable and healthy meal options (in the meantime, they do sell after-school snacks). They’ve also expanded their library, adding 100 new games and puzzles to the collection. “We’re hosting more tournaments and planning some big board-game events,” they share. “We are getting creative in many ways and it’s fun!”
PHOTO BY MEERLOO PHOTOGRAPHY
PHOTO BY VLAD IMAGE STUDIO
The Hummus House was a mainstay business in the Lehigh Valley for 10 years, but owner Anthony Hechme says that when they relocated to Bethlehem, they had a hard time educating customers that they served more than just hummus! Despite launching with an emphasis on Middle Eastern cuisine and, specifically, hummus, Hechme says their sandwiches began to attract most of the attention over the years. “Slowly I started making it the main focus,” he says. The name “HandHeldz” made perfect sense for the business— sandwiches are handheld, of course, but it also allowed them to maintain a double “H” in their name. “I wanted to keep the same feel. After all, Hummus House lasted 10 years, and all of our blood, sweat and tears are in that name,” says Hechme. They also maintain the rooftop emblem as part of their new logo in remembrance of the brand's roots. As for the “z” at the end of HandHeldz, Hechme says it’s a nod to his son, Zavion. But more than just the restaurant’s name has changed—the menu has been updated to highlight the most popular items and the restaurant’s aesthetic has been completely transformed. In 2024, Hechme hopes HandHeldz becomes known as the best place to grab a sandwich in the Valley. 518
In December, Nowhere Coffee Co. owners Lauren and Juan Vargas announced the news that they were opening their own roastery. “For Nowhere, everything starts with the coffee. By bringing our roasting operations in-house it allows us to better monitor the quality of the bean,” they say. “Being this close to the roast and this close to the customer will allow us to build a coffee program that accurately represents the wants and needs of our community.” Roasting and business operations had been run out of their home since they started building the company in May 2021—and it became clear that they needed more space. “We looked at tons of different real estate options and ultimately decided focusing on roasting and operations was the right next step,” they say. “Our kids agree and are quite happy to have their house back.” The pair is most excited to experiment with roast profiles: “There is an art and a science to it. You are chasing flavors that are innately in the bean, but impacted by so many different variables.” While The Roastery is not open to the public, they hope to hold occasional cuppings and events there. 115
PHOTO BY MARCO CALDERON
Is
In 2014, Danyel Harrison began exploring how to make jewelry with polymer clay and gemstones. Combining a new-found love for crafting with her knowledge of healing crystals, she became 100 percent self-taught in making pendants and started sharing her work on social media. This led to an overwhelming response to purchase her items and, as interest grew, she began selling her work at festivals and events as well as on Esty. Now, Danyel and her husband, Andrew, own two store locations in the Lehigh Valley where their children, Gwyneth and Gabriel, work as managers. Read on to learn more about all that Handmade Mystic has to offer.
QDescribe the overall mission of the business. Handmade Mystic is a place where we want everyone to feel welcome regardless of spiritual beliefs or backgrounds. Walk in feeling inquisitive and leave with an understanding on how to utilize healing crystals and tools in your everyday life. With our newest location, we are so pleased to bring hands-on events to the community as well.
What can shoppers expect to find in store?
You can find everything you need here, whether you are starting your spiritual journey or you are a professional. We carry everything from tumbled stones to more expensive unique crystal pieces, along with handcrafted candles, incense, books, tarot, herbs and more.
Describe the overall vibe of the store/shopping experience for customers.
When you step into a Handmade Mystic you will notice a calming effect rush over you as your senses experience natural scents from sage, incense, candles and oils. There are many colors and textures of gems and minerals to gaze at as you stroll through our shops. Calming music plays and there is always a smiling face ready to assist you.
What are some customer favorites?
Our Mystery Box Vending Machine at the Center Valley location has been a huge hit. We have to restock at least once per week. And we have had such a positive response to our new Bead Bar in our Whitehall location. People are coming from all over to make their own custom bracelets—it’s been so much fun watching all of the unique creations being made.
Tell us more about the Mystery Box Vending Machine!
The Mystery Box Vending Machine was our daughter Gwyn’s idea. You get to intuitively pick the crystal that is meant for you. The mystery items are wrapped in iridescent sparkling packages and you choose by number which one calls to you. Inside your package will be a meaning card explaining why you picked that crystal along with one of the 36 different items in the machine. The meaning cards are laminated and meant to be collected.
Tell us about your new location and the Bead Bar.
Whitehall is our largest location yet at 4,250 square feet. The Bead Bar is a
very hands-on approach to combining art with gemstones, just as Handmade Mystic began. We wanted to be able to share that creative freedom with our customers. Sit down at our Bead Bar, made with over 1,000 tumbled crystals, resin and color-changing LED lights. Open a menu to choose from more than 40 types of healing crystals, charms and beads to design your own personal gemstone bracelet. It’s like wearing your personality on your wrist!
Tell us about your events! We host one workshop per month at our Whitehall location. Each month will be something new and fun! December was our first event, featuring intention candle making; January was a Sip
and Create for abundance wreaths; and February was a Sip, Paint and Tarot. At our workshops you can expect to leave equipped enough to create these things on your own. It’s always about having a great time, connecting with like-minded people and, of course, learning something new. Head to the events page on our website for more information.
What can readers look forward to from the business in 2024? Keep your eyes open for our Handmade Mystic on Wheels! We are currently in the process of bringing that to life.
A beautifully crafted, well-built home requires knowledge and experience on both sides of the project—construction and interior design. When the two come together with purpose, style and efficiency go hand in hand.
Restart Renovation and Design provides turnkey remodeling and interior design services to clients who value a relaxed experience and an elevated outcome— without having to handle the devilish details themselves.
Scott and Jessica Holwick along with their team have over 20 years of experience transforming spaces with their signature seamless process. With Jessica spearheading all things design and Scott leading construction, their blend of expertise means that interiors come to life smoothly and stylishly. Their work prioritizes craftsmanship and melds a fresh, modern perspective with timeless appeal.
In-house collaboration on design and construction enables thinking beyond the surface—creating a simplified process, streamlined communication and endless efficiencies along the way. Value engineering in the design phase evaluates the most cost-effective way to approach the renovation and single-point accountability provides less stress for clients.
Whether crafting the perfect headshot, co-owning the local café/catering company Zekraft or adding another book to her publishing credits, Elaine Zelker doesn’t let any grass grow under her feet. This go-getter, mom of three and champion of women entrepreneurs is often asked, “Is there anything you can’t do, Elaine?” To which she lightheartedly responds, “I can’t throw a horseshoe for the life of me! Seriously, though, there’s plenty I can’t do but when I want to learn something new, I’m all in. I study, research and read to figure things out.”
In Zero Limits: Breaking the Boundaries That Hold You Back, Zelker is clearly “all in,” taking readers on a transformational journey from “A to Z,” and empowering women to create a life that aligns with their mission, vision and values— even if they don’t know what those are yet. “I wish I had this book as a guide 25 years ago,” Zelker says. “Many people I know stay stuck in a rut and don’t know a way out. My goal is to teach women to embrace their passions so they can seize new opportunities.”
Having a reliable support system can make all the difference in the world on the journey toward meeting your goals, Zelker says,
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and finding an accountability partner is the first step. This is the person who knows when to “give you a good kick in the pants, and high-fives you as you progress toward your goals.” What makes a good accountability partner? Zelker says you want someone who provides unfiltered, honest feedback, addresses tough issues and challenges you when necessary. This person is also fully invested in your growth and success.
When asked if a spouse or other family member would make a good accountability partner, she says that it’s important to keep in mind that these people may be too emotionally involved, which can sometimes make it challenging to remain objective. Ultimately, Zelker says, an accountability partner should “prioritize a commitment to understanding your vision and goals, provide unbiased guidance and hold you accountable for your actions.”
How is it that fear seems to rear its ugly head once we’ve decided to take up a new sport or hobby, finally make our side hustle a full-time business or decide that this is the year to take that solo trip to the Maldives? By embracing a proactive approach, Zelker says, you can overcome fear and enable the pursuit of your passion. The process “begins with consciously acknowledging your fears, followed by a mental reconfiguration to perceive them as a challenge rather than a hindrance.” The first step, she notes, is admitting that you have fears. Then, rethink them. Ask yourself how your perspective would shift if failure weren’t an option. Next, pursue what excites you and take time to reflect on what inspired you in the first place. And finally, take action: “By diving into action, you confront your fears head-on and build confidence through practical experience,” she says. “Each step you take is a testament to your courage and growth.”
Women tend to be especially hard on themselves when making life or career changes, even when they know, logically, that negative self-talk doesn’t help. “The language you use to talk to yourself,” Zelker says, “can either lift you up or tear
you down, and the words you use have a profound impact on your thoughts, feelings and actions.” Positive “I am” statements are powerful tools for self-affirmation and personal growth, she says, and by consciously using these statements, you can shift your mindset and edit your thoughts to focus on your strengths, capabilities and positive qualities. Getting specific, using the present tense and staying positive is key. Case in point: If you want to become an interior design consultant, for example, you would complete the necessary training, set up office space and a website, and start networking. When others ask what you do, your response would be, “‘I am’ an interior design consultant,” not “I’m planning on becoming an interior design consultant,” even if you don’t yet have any clients. The key here, Zelker says, is to tell yourself that you are already “living the life you want, rather than waiting for it to happen in the future.”
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LEHIGHVALLEYSTYLE.COM MARCH 2024 31
Prabha Sinha, founder of the Pratyush Sinha Foundation, talks about how she prioritizes mindfulness in her everyday life and shares her tips for incorporating more of it into yours. Hear her thoughts on exercise, aging, indulgences, the importance of stillness and more.
QHow would you describe your personal philosophy when it comes to overall wellness?
My personal philosophy and practice of overall wellness is rooted in the body, mind and heart connection. How we get there can differ, as we are all unique with different needs and preferences. For me that comes through a combination of yoga, walking , gym routines and, of course, times of reflection, silence and connection. The quiet moments snuck through the day, on the bed, cushion, outdoors or time spent with friends help bring all three into alignment.
Tell us about the work that you’ve done in founding the Pratyush Sinha Foundation (PSF). What are you most proud of about your work? PSF for me has been a labor of love to honor my son Prat yush, whom we lost in 2011. My intention with the work has always been to empower children and adolescents with tools for emotional regulation, so they can live their life to their full potential. The external and internal challenges that we all face in the 21 st century are unprecedented in human history in the absence of the
fabric of the social support we had before. But we do have a rich heritage of ancient practices from all over the world, which Western science now attests to, that are being woven into our schools, homes and communities.
I don’t know if pride is the word, but it gives me great joy and peace to know that, through our work, some children and adolescents understand the value of the pause and know that they always have a choice when steering through the rollercoaster of their emotions. It is gratifying to know that children are developing self-calming and self-soothing skills.
The foundation recently celebrated its 10-year anniversary and introduced the Mindful Child Initiative. Tell us about that transition and the focus of the foundation going forward. Mindful Child Initiative by Pratyush Sinha Foundation was adopted for the purpose of making our mission and work transparent to all, our community and stakeholders. Our mission has not changed. We will continue to provide high-quality mindfulness programs to
promote the mental and emotional health of children and the adults who support them in the Lehigh Valley.
I have stepped down from the director role but continue to support Jason Sizemore and Sara Martinez, the now co-executive directors. They have been with the organization since 2017 as volunteers and then staff. They are both as committed and passionate about the work as I am. They are incorporating their unique expertise and talents to propel us onwards with vigor, through old and new initiatives.
Mindfulness to me is a constant reminder to stay present, through the ebb and flow of life. I have set reminders for myself through the day to draw me back into my body and connect to sensations, sensory awareness, breath, etc. These are times like when I am taking a sip of tea, or stopped at a red light, the sight of the rising or setting sun, etc. Listening to my body helps me tune in to my mental and emotional states and cultivate awareness.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARCO CALDERON
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In what ways does mindfulness support self-regulation?
Mindfulness fosters capabilities which build critical insight, compassion and connection. All this supports self-regulation.
How can one weave mindfulness into their work day?
Mindfulness comes into play in everything we do, and the same principles apply everywhere. For a meaningful, stress-free and productive work life, we need to keep our attention in the present moment, non-judgmentally, and with recognition of the common humanity and interdependence. Inserting moments of mindful awareness to what we do, every day, helps it become a habitual pattern. This builds our capacity to navigate the challenges that can come up in interactions with coworkers, deadlines, unmet expectations, etc.
Inserting moments of mindful awareness to what we do, every day, helps it become a habitual pattern.
When it comes to overall mindfulness, what role does yoga play?
Yoga is a multifaceted approach whereby we guide our awareness through the gross body into the subtle body which includes our mind. One of the classical definitions of yoga defines it as the cessation of conflicts of the mind. Mindfulness provides us with some of the tools to achieve that state of being.
Describe your morning and evening routines! 15–20 minutes of stillness are an important part of my morning and nightly routine. These minutes might just be breath practice or a body scan and especially during the tough times the recitation of a mantra.
What’s your favorite meal to make at home? I have many because my taste buds crave variety. I like to cook simple dishes that do not take too much time. For breakfast, avocado toast or blueberry pancakes; for lunch, a simple salad with some
warm roasted veggies and nuts with just some EVOO and balsamic vinegar or a homemade vegan soup; for dinner, roti (Indian homemade tortilla made with whole wheat flour), mung dal (mung beans cooked with light spices) and some vegetables stirfried with basic spices.
What are your favorite eateries and restaurants to visit in the Lehigh Valley for a good meal? What do you order?
My favorite is Santosha, which is open only for lunch on weekdays. I like all the vegan dishes there, especially their seasonal menu. If feeling lazy, I do take out from Bamboo or Thai Avenue (vegetable dumplings, Thai red/ green tofu curry) or Cumin N Eat (samosa, mixed veg korma, channa saag, naan).
What’s something that you love to indulge in?
My indulgence is retreats at Himalayan Institute (Honesdale), the Omega or Garrison Institute (NY), where my mind and body both are nourished. Locally, my food indulgence is Butterhead Kitchen.
Do you have a preferred exercise routine?
I have added strength training to my exercise regimen in the last two and a half years, as I entered the sixth decade of my life. I have done this to slow down the muscle mass loss that happens with age and to strengthen my core to help ease the pain in my back.
What’s your philosophy for wellness when it coming to aging?
Aging is the natural progression of life and I embrace fully all that comes with it. I believe that while we can’t avoid the chronological age, the psychological age rests on our attitudes and lifestyle. And that is what I focus on.
How do you stay motivated?
One day at a time.
Who is someone you look up to?
Hard for me to pick one. Buddha, Jesus Christ, Gandhi, Martin Luther King, Nelson Mandela, Mother Teresa and Dalai Lama.
Do you have a personal mantra that you’d like to share?
A short one: “This too shall pass.” themci.org
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Traditions of Hanover is an award-winning community for service excellence based on authentic reviews of residents, their families and guests. Experience the warmth of Traditions; enjoy a complimentary lunch with a scheduled tour. Call Megan Sedlock at 610.674.0573 or email msedlock@traditionsofhanover.com
At Traditions of Hanover, the authentic feeling of family and home is palpable when walking through the doors. Traditions exemplifies a culture of kindness spearheaded by its longtime management team. Families praise staff for their professionalism, uplifting demeanor and extraordinary will to go above and beyond for their loved ones.
Residents build and maintain healthy relationships at Traditions while exploring their interests and hobbies. The Traditions team builds trust with their residents, helping to make their lives easier by coordinating outpatient services, corresponding with health care professionals, advocating for their care and well-being and connecting them with local resources that simplify their everyday routines to maintain their independence and live their best lives.
The mantra of Traditions—“choose joy”—spreads throughout the community. Here, residents engage in meaningful conversations that grow into lifelong friendships filled with love, laughter and good times!
5300 Northgate Dr., Bethlehem 610.674.0573 | traditionsofhanover.com
Nicholas Nanovic leads the Wills, Trusts and Estates practice group at Gross McGinley. With more than 15 years of experience, he specializes in estate planning and estate administration. He has earned the designations of Accredited Estate Planner ® and Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy ® Recognized for his legal acumen, he has been named to the Super Lawyers Rising Stars List on 10 separate occasions. In 2020, he was recognized on the Lehigh Valley Business Forty Under 40 list.
Nicholas is deeply engaged in community service. He serves on the Board of Governors for Lehigh Valley Community Foundation, and he is the county coordinator for the Wills for Heroes program in Lehigh and Northampton counties.
Gross McGinley is a full-service law firm with offices in Allentown, Stroudsburg and Easton with practices in a range of legal areas, across multiple industries, utilizing a collaborative strategy to provide clients with the utmost attention and service.
An innovative exercise regimen happening in a fresh new wellness facility is pushing back the effects of aging for residents at Moravian Village of Bethlehem.
Led by award-winning wellness instructor and nutritionist Angie Fenstermaker, the weekly workouts enhance muscle strength through circuit training, body building and Yoga Toning—her customized mix of weight training and yoga. “Muscle mass is the main organ of human longevity,” she says. “Staying strong is the key to physical and mental well-being, especially as we age.”
Among the residents energized by this “active aging” approach to exercise is Betsy Brommer, a regular participant in the multi-discipline classes at the wellness studio at Moravian Village’s Point 26 Suites and the new Community Events Center.
“Angie’s classes are fun and her focus on strength and whole-body conditioning makes a real difference—including much better balance and movement—which reduces the risk of falls,” she says. “I’m convinced that staying healthy means staying strong and doing more, not less, as we get older.”
Countless opportunities for staying active, engage and fulfilled are always available in the Cornwall Manor community!
If a natural, wooded setting with walking trails, maintenance-free living, excellent services and amenities, a variety of residential living options, educational and cultural opportunities and first-class medical facilities are on a “must have” list for a senior living community, it’s time to plan a visit to Cornwall Manor.
Cornwall Manor is a not-for-profit continuing care community located in historic Cornwall, Lebanon County, a short drive from the Lehigh Valley. Cornwall Manor has been providing a fulfilling lifestyle for individuals age 60-plus since 1949. The 190-acre campus houses beautiful historic buildings and a variety of homes and apartments offering a unique and comfortable lifestyle while providing an array of services, excellent amenities, exciting programs as well as continuing care for every resident.
Everyone owes themself a visit to Cornwall Manor to see what sets it apart! Contact Cornwall Manor today at 717.274.8092 or marketing@cornwallmanor.org 1
Cornwall 717.274.8092 | 800.222.2476 cornwallmanor.org
2195 Spinnerstown Rd., Quakertown 215.536.7242 | spinnerstownhotel.com
Delve south into Bucks County and you’ll find the Spinnerstown Hotel just west of Quakertown. Since 1750 this spot has offered food, drink and a warm atmosphere, racking up awards and satisfied diners. Their 12-ounce NY Strip is encrusted with peppercorns and served alongside garlic parmesan fries with a green peppercorn sauce.
306 S. New St., Bethlehem 610.419.4320 | zestbethlehem.com
The sight across SouthSide Bethlehem and beyond is something to behold from this culinary crow’s nest in the heart of the arts district. Try their steak and frites with luscious béarnaise sauce and bright chives, part of a Sunday brunch that takes the menu to another level, especially considering the impressive mimosa tower.
4431 Easton Ave., Bethlehem 610.691.8400 | bluegrillhouse.com
A petite eight-ounce NY Strip is paired here with a peppercorn brandy sauce and fries, available for lunch, dinner or on the brunch menu. Classy and consistent, Blue is an institution when it comes to steak, so rest assured that this cut takes the spotlight seasoned well and perfectly tender!
77 Wind Creek Blvd., Bethlehem 484.777.7964 | windcreek.com/bethlehem
Pause for lunch during a shopping spree at The Outlets at Wind Creek in Bethlehem and you’ll find Urban Table’s take on steak frites. The “small” plate nonetheless provides plenty with a 10-ounce steak and is offered with garlic butter fries and chipotle aioli. Upgrade during dinner hours to the Surf and Turf Frites if you’re in the mood to add lobster tail and sumptuous bone marrow butter.
Twin Ponds Holistic Health offers an array of holistic experiences. Attendees can partake in Ayurvedic cooking classes with Michelle Costantini, delving into the secrets of Ayurvedic cuisine to enhance overall well-being.
The retreat center also hosts popular Tango sessions, providing an opportunity to embrace the rhythm of wellness and rejuvenate the mind and body. Twin Ponds is home to a talented group of massage therapists who specialize in a variety of modalities to meet your needs. The Salt of the Earth massage salt cave offers a unique relaxation experience, while Reiki sessions guide participants toward profound relaxation and inner balance.
Twin Ponds is proud to host enriching events throughout the year in collaboration with local vendors. Attendees can expect to savor locally crafted beverages from The Backyard Bar Co., introduce green companions into their lives with offerings from Gallivanting Greenhouse, elevate their senses with soul coaching from Eloveation Nation, explore natural remedies and potions from Willow & Oak Apothecary, and so much more.
Join Twin Ponds Holistic Health and embark on a transformative journey to well-being.
Is Winona Ryder cool? She was both It Girl and outsider in the 1980s and ’90s as the doe-eyed, dark-haired star of cult classics in the making like Beetlejuice, Edward Scissorhands and Heathers. Even a shoplifting scandal and multiyear hiatus from Hollywood in the early 2000s couldn’t dissuade her ardent fans; they sported “Free Winona” merch and bided their time, waiting for a comeback. A whole new legion of young fans came into the Winona fold in 2016 when Netflix rolled out Stranger Things, starring Ryder as frazzled but fierce mom Joyce Byers. So yes, Winona Ryder is cool. But you don’t have to tell Robert Rich that. He knows it better than most people in the Lehigh Valley.
You could say Rich is both a former and current Bethlehem resident. His in-between years were spent largely in New York City, where he befriended Ryder more than 20 years ago.
Last year he authored Winona, a coffee table book crammed with photographs of the actress. Rich was the person behind the camera—or, later, smartphone—who snapped the majority of the pictures, which were carefully curated by Rich, Ryder and noted fashion photographer Francesca Sorrenti, who served as the book’s creative director. Rich appears in some of the pictures as well; although the book is all about Winona, it’s also a testame nt to the pair’s lengthy friendship.
Rich says he always knew he wanted to move to New York City. That’s not to say he doesn’t have fond memories of his childhood in Bethlehem. He grew up the youngest of two brothers and a sister. His father, also named Robert, was a physical education teacher and coach, and his mother, Eleanor, was an executive assistant for UPS. The former high school sweethearts celebrated 65 years of marriage last year. Rich attended Northeast Middle School and then Liberty High School. Along the way he made memories that will sound familiar to lots of Lehigh Valley kids: fishing in the Lehigh Canal, fixing up dirt bikes (“sissy bars and banana seats and all that,” he says), bagging groceries and pushing carts for an early job at Laneco in Nazareth and catching a flick at the neighborhood movie house (which, in his case, was the Boyd or the Nile, both formerly on West Broad Street). Rich can recall buying his first Hollywood magazine at a local drug store. “That’s when I started liking celebrities,” he says. “My room was covered in posters. I still have the posters.” Charlie’s Angels and Cheryl Tiegs were early favorites.
Rich moved to New York City in 1985 when he was 19 years old and studied art history and communications at Hunter College. He was still in college when he made what proved to be a fortuitous find underground: “I found a button on the subway and I put it on my jean jacket, and people were like, ‘Where’d you get that Keith Haring button?’ And I said, ‘Who’s Keith Haring?’” Just a couple years later, Rich was managing Haring’s Pop Shop in SoHo. From there he started to make his way in the fashion world, first at Barneys New York and then later at W Magazine, where he began meeting and working with a lot of celebrities, like Mariah Carey. Rich was self-assured in making his next career move. “I went to a Marc Jacobs fashion show and I marched backstage and asked for a job,” he says. It worked. He started in sales and was quickly promoted to assistant manager and then manager. He ultimately became Director of Retail Stores and Vice President of Public Relations.
His first year with Marc Jacobs was 1999. Later that same year he spotted Ryder in the Marc Jacobs store on Mercer Street in SoHo. Rich had just seen Girl, Interrupted He recalls his first conversation with the actress: “I walked up to her and said, ‘I loved your new movie.’
I WENT TO A MARC JACOBS FASHION SHOW AND I MARCHED BACKSTAGE AND ASKED FOR A JOB.
SHE’S LIKE, ‘THAT’S A GIRLS’ MOVIE.’ AND I SAID, ‘I’M A GIRLS’ MOVIE KIND OF GUY.’ THAT’S HOW IT ALL STARTED.
She’s like, ‘That’s a girls’ movie.’ And I said, ‘I’m a girls’ movie kind of guy.’ That’s how it all started. The rest is history.”
A lot of that history would unfold underground, inside Rich’s windowless basement office on Mercer Street, which he inhabited for more than 17 years. Like the bedroom of his youth in Bethlehem, Rich decorated the space with pictures, posters and pages torn from magazines. But, unlike the celebrities whose likenesses graced his early “clubhouse,” Rich had formed real friendships with the A-listers who adorned his walls in adulthood. He describes his office as a retreat for actresses, models and other well-connected types who wanted a place to hang out away from the glaring eye of the paparazzi. “When it rained, it poured,” he says. “If someone was in town, everybody was in town. Grace Jones would come in, Kate Moss would come in, Keanu Reeves’ mom. They all came in at the same time and I’d introduce them all to each other and it always seemed to be fun, and everybody got along.” He can also recall the time he helped a hobbling Cate Blanchett (she was on crutches) get away from an overzealous group of
Of course, Ryder was one of the most frequent visitors to Rich’s basement secret society. As their friendship deepened, he began to dress her for major events. But many of the pictures included in Winona are Polaroids that show her unguarded, clad in casual clothes, posing alone or with another guest in front of Rich’s busy office walls. Still, the two buddies—she calls him “shnookie” (although “not Jersey Shore Snooki—this was before that,” he’s quick to clarify) and he calls her “shnookums”— did get out into the daylight, too. Another picture in the book features Ryder feasting on pizza made by Rich’s mom inside his apartment. When asked to name one of his favorite memories of his time with Ryder, he cites the 2009 Met Gala, which they attended together. “Every guy was staring at Winona,” he says. “She was gorgeous. We just had so much fun.”
Rich left Marc Jacobs in 2015, but the pictures—the ones he could peel off the walls and save, anyway—came with him. He put them in shoeboxes and stashed them away. Then in 2022 he got an idea— why not whittle down the stack and turn this decades-long collaboration into a book? He DMed the London-based book dealer and publisher IDEA, which sells a line of Winona merchandise, and they told him they were on board. Of course, he also asked Ryder for her permission: “She thought it was an amazing idea and loved it.”
Winona was released to much fanfare during a launch party at Dover Street Market in Manhattan at the tail end of last year; Marc Jacobs, who authored the book's foreword, was in attendance. By that time, Rich was back to being a Bethlehem resident. He fled the city and returned to the Lehigh Valley during the COVID pandemic for what he thought would be a temporary stay, but then he started going on long bike rides and walking his dogs around the area unencumbered. “So I started falling in love with Bethlehem again,” he says. In 2023 he assumed ownership and care of a historic home on Main Street that had been in his family for decades, first under the stewardship of his grandparents, and then his parents. Previously the home, which Rich says was built in 1885, was owned by Annie Kemerer, the founder of the Kemerer Museum of Decorative Arts. As the year was drawing to a close, Rich was finishing up renovations inside—although nothing too drastic, he says. He wants to maintain the original character of the home. He is toying with the idea of turning the home into a bed and breakfast or Airbnb. “Once it’s done, I’ll figure it out,” he says.
Although he still visits New York City frequently (“It’s nice to jump back and forth”), Rich says he’s in the Lehigh Valley for the long haul. “I would have never thought I’d be back in Bethlehem, but I love it here,” he says. At the time of this interview, he had yet to woo Ryder to the region for a visit. But anything is possible. Her mysteriousness is part of her allure. “That’s why I love her,” he says.
Love Your Room designs spaces that bring beauty and well-being into every home they work on.
Love Your Room (LYR) is recognized for creating one-of-a-kind modern home transformations. Whether it’s assisting with a home to be built, a full home renovation or a smaller remodel, homeowners benefit from hiring their friendly experienced team. Their designs are layered in warmth and personality. Their team can handle all the moving parts of the project down to the final details. LYR is the best choice for hard-working homeowners looking for a well-executed end result with quality craftsmanship.
Founded in 2006, LYR provides hands-on customized environments perfectly tailored to each client’s needs. Their design studio is connected with a wide network of skilled artisans and vendors. With an office in the Lehigh Valley, they work with clients throughout Pennsylvania, New Jersey and New York.
Contact Love Your Room today to book a consult and discuss the next project!
610.387.6002
loveyourroom.com
With plenty of experience supporting home improvement projects in both PA and NJ, Wehrung’s is the local home improvement store for all!
Nestled in the bustling community of Macungie, Wehrung’s stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of a third-generation, family-owned home improvement store.
Originally opened in 1956 as Dries Do It Best, president and CEO Jason Wehrung, a Bucks County native, purchased and renovated the store in 2021 as one of the five locations within the tri-county area. Wehrung’s—hailing from Ottsville since 1946—is a name synonymous with quality, expertise and personalized service. Departments and services range from a full-service, drivethru lumber yard and a professional contractor counter to a fully stocked retail space with leading brands in tools, decking, outdoor living, and windows and doors. Complete with an industry-leading kitchen and bath design and flooring center, Wehrung’s designers do more than restyle spaces—they bring a homeowner’s unique style to fruition every step of the way.
Visit the beautiful showroom to create a dream home today!
3580 Brookside Rd., Macungie 610.966.5555 wehrungs.com
PHOTO BY JON FRIEDRICH
Millcreek Landscape Design, LLC, a custom landscape design and installation firm, has been creating beautiful outdoor living spaces in and around the Lehigh Valley since 2006. What sets them apart from the myriad of other landscape companies is their ability to not only design but also install every facet of hardscaping and construction on a project. They have a unique approach of crafting designs that complement each home’s features and architecture while paying special attention to detail, no matter how big or small the project. The increasingly popular outdoor pavilion with fireplace has become one of their most requested features to include in a design. Custom swimming pools as well as accent boulders and boulder retaining walls are among a few of their specialties. The possibilities are limitless, and with Millcreek, customers know they will have a timeless space they can enjoy for years to come.
Each project begins with a personal consultation with one of Millcreek’s designers, the owner, Russ Schulley, being one of them. The initial meeting at a customer’s home is a joint effort: discussing ideas, addressing concerns and getting a basic understanding of the overall vision for the space. The designer remains a part of the process, seeing the project through to completion. In fact, the entire company takes pride in working closely with their customers to ensure that every aspect of the job exceeds expectations. They also offer full maintenance services once the project is complete to ensure the space continues to look and function at its best.
Emphasizing care and creativity every step of the way, from concept through construction, Millcreek Landscape Design has the skills, services and expertise that homeowners need to make the most of their property.
Kay Builders, the Lehigh Valley’s local homebuilder, has served the area continuously since 1961. With a long legacy in the Lehigh Valley, Kay Builders now brings decades of experience to their first community in Montgomery County. Kay’s success can be attributed to being a third-generation family business—providing not only expertise, but also modern, cutting-edge homes crafted by their skilled team.
With Kay Builders, there are nearly endless possibilities when it comes to building the perfect home. Their floor plans are CUSTOM-i-ZABLE and can be adapted to suit a family’s personal needs. Together, create a unique home in an eye-catching community—something special inside and out!
Kay Builders has it all—ranging from singles, twin villas, townhomes and active adult communities. With creative designs and elegant exteriors, Kay Builders builds homes for every lifestyle. Contact their knowledgeable team today for more information!
Serving the Lehigh Valley and surrounding areas 484.353.6100 | kaybuilders.com
“Kospia Farms goes the extra distance in everything they do. I can honestly say they make magic.” STEPHANIE STEVENS, BELL GATE FARM
Contact Kay Builders today to learn more about their new home communities!
The Fields at Brookside (Elegant Singles) MACUNGIE
Laurel Field (Luxury Townhomes) UPPER MACUNGIE TOWNSHIP
The Fields at Jacobs Way (Luxury Townhomes) HARLEYSVILLE
More communities coming soon!
For homeowners looking for landscaping or outdoor furniture solutions, Barry and Maureen of Kospia Farms stop at nothing to create unique outdoor areas that reflect their customers’ homes, personalities and lives.
Barry has been designing and installing landscaping and hardscaping for over 40 years. His designs are unmatched, and his knowledge of trees and plants ensures years of seasonal beauty and healthy growth.
Maureen brings her passion for design and attention to detail, along with all of her “best-in-class” outdoor living products. She has an innate ability to develop a furniture and accessory layout that incorporates texture, color, design and the most appropriate use of space for any home.
Call Kospia Farms for free designs and estimates for landscaping and/or outdoor furniture solutions! Visit the showroom and 26-acre nursery at Kospia Farms in Alburtis.
2288 State St., Alburtis 610.682.7233
kospiafarms.com
Jaime Bassett, founder and principal designer behind the woman-owned design-build firm FD Design Co., brings unwavering dedication and excellence to every project. Specializing in refined interiors, kitchens and baths, and commercial projects, FD Design Co. transforms visions into reality with unparalleled passion and precision.
Transform any space with FD Design Co.—the Lehigh Valley’s premier design-build firm.
Jaime Bassett’s passion for good design and quality construction is evident in every project. From stunning kitchen and bath renovations to small additions and commercial projects, FD Design Co. specializes in turning visions into reality. With a focus on creating a seamless process from concept to construction, they alleviate the challenges typically associated with home improvement projects. Jaime brings a unique and personalized approach to every project, turning houses into homes and workplaces into spaces for productivity to thrive.
Her commitment to community engagement is evident in her collaborative approach, where she not only listens to her clients’ needs but also considers the cultural and social context of each project. Jaime’s heart for the community is reflected in her involvement in local initiatives and events. She took her passion for good design and her love of serving others to the next level when she started a Pennsylvania chapter of Savvy Giving by Design, a nonprofit that transforms rooms for children undergoing medical crises at no cost to them.
The team at FD Design Co. believes that design is not just a profession, but a way to build connections and enhance the overall well-being of the community.
FD Design Co. understands the unique needs of clients who are looking for a trusted partner to create a space that not only meets their requirements but exceeds their expectations in terms of style, function, comfort and exclusivity. Their commitment to excellence ensures that each project is executed with precision and care, making FD Design Co. the go-to choice for those seeking sophistication and functionality in their spaces.
“Well, I'm living here in Allentown...”
So begins the Billy Joel song that’s burned into the brains of most Lehigh Valley residents. Despite its bleak assessment of the region’s blue-collar decline decades ago, the shoutout is a point of pride for the Piano Man’s local fans. On the other hand, the song also serves as a reference point for outof-towners who otherwise wouldn’t know where to find Allentown on a map.
Alan Younkin and Michael Schelp used to be in the second group. They were both living in New York City when they met in 2017. They fell in love and married in Central Park in January of 2020. Once COVID-19 began to rear its ugly head, though, it quickly became apparent that a change of scenery was in order. “During the pandemic New York City was not a very nice place to live so we fled and wandered around, came upon Allentown and we fell in love with it,” Younkin says.
When asked what led them specifically to Allentown, Younkin and Schelp both cite— without hesitation—Joel’s 1982 hit. “We had never been [to Allentown],” says Younkin. “We just drove here, wandered around, saw West Park with the beautiful row houses and Masonic Temple. We just had to get out of our car and look around. Fortunately, there was a ‘for rent’ sign on one of the houses.”
They made the move to Allentown’s West Park Historic District in May of 2020 and bided their time as renters, hoping the next sign they would see in the neighborhood would read “for sale.” They only had to wait about a year and a half before that sign went up just a block away from the place they were renting. It was late in 2021 and the housing market was still red-hot, so they knew they had to act quickly, recalls Schelp: “It came on the market on a Tuesday, we saw it on Thursday, and there were a lot of bids, and we ended up buying it on Friday."
What they bought was a 2,300-squarefoot, classic Victorian townhome dating back to 1910. “We liked it right away because it was right here on West Park,” Younkin says. “It was basically the same floor plan as what we had. It had been beautifully renovated.”
The home is spread across four levels, including a finished basement with a bar and lounge area. Two of the home’s five bedrooms on the upper floors are used as offices. The main entrance opens into a three-season porch with leaded glass windows. Beyond that is a living room that’s spacious enough to include a grand piano and two separate seating areas. One side is awash in browns: a chocolate leather Restoration Hardware sofa, a Teddy Roosevelt safari chair and a rustic, wood-plank-top coffee table. The other side features what Schelp calls a “Judy Jetson” style sofa and chairs: modern white leather. The brown sofa was acquired from the previous owners, but the white furniture was purchased by the couple after much deliberation, and more than a few trial runs. “I’m a huge believer in comfort,” says Schelp. “We went shopping at like eight different stores. I was sitting down and standing up in 100 different chairs because I really want comfortable chairs.”
Both Younkin and Schelp say they love to entertain. It’s typical for guests to congregate in the kitchen. “It’s a bright, airy kitchen,” Younkin says. “The island is great. I’ll be cooking and our guests can sit on the barstools and we can serve some drinks before dinner.” If the weather cooperates, the party can then head outside to one of the property’s crown jewels: a rooftop terrace above the garage, which Younkin, who has farming in his blood, has lovingly cultivated with a mix of plants and greenery: potted banana trees, cannas, annuals and even corn from Younkin’s family farm in Iowa. “It just looks incredible,” Schelp says. “During the summer we spend at least 15, 20 minutes a day out there, and when friends come over, hours.” Younkin’s green thumb is coming in handy for the neighbors as well. Cannas multiply quickly, he says, so he often gives away the extras. “You can stand on our deck and see his flowers all over the neighborhood,” Schelp says. “He’s very generous. From 15th Street to 17th Street, there are his cannas.”
The more formal dining room is a striking contrast in light and dark: black walls framed by white trim, crown molding and chair rails. The table—which can be extended to seat up to a dozen people— belonged to Younkin’s mother’s family; he estimates it’s more than a century old. It’s one of the family heirlooms that has followed Younkin around through various moves. Another is upstairs in a spare bedroom: a four-poster bed that his relatives carted from Ohio to Iowa via covered wagon in the mid-nineteenth century.
Although there have been some bigger renovation projects—such as refinishing the floors, fixing the garage and repairing the front and back steps—Younkin and Schelp say their primary focus has been curating the décor and furnishings to make the home their own. “We want to preserve what it was,” Schelp says. “It’s just a beautiful home.” Adds Younkin: “I like the old architecture. I like a lot of the millwork, the wood floors. But it’s been updated so it feels fresh and modern.”
“We want to preserve what it was. It's just a beautiful home.”
They’re avid art collectors and have pieces throughout the home made by several local artists, including Khalil Allaik, Jay Echevarria, Egidio Galgano and Arta Brito, whose large charcoal drawing of a man resting his chin in his hands, gazing serenely at the viewer, is a focal point of the living room. They’ve also enlisted local craftsmen to make some of their furniture. Woodworker Bill Kreider used reclaimed wood from the old bleachers at J. Birney Crum Stadium in Allentown and steel from Bethlehem Steel to make a pair of sideboards.
“It’s eclectic,” Schelp says. “It’s a lot of different styles. We entertain a lot, and people come over a lot. So you come in, you feel welcome, and there are a lot of interesting things to look at.” And it’s a constantly evolving tableau, Younkin says: “Sometimes you have to shuffle some things around. We’re always looking for something that catches our eye.”
Younkin and Schelp are both retired. Previously Younkin was a veterinarian and Schelp worked in TV production and media. Now they’re very active with the West Park Civic Association, which includes serving as co-chairs of the annual Art in the Park event at West Park. They also founded the inaugural Allentown Film Festival in 2022. And, even though they still maintain an apartment in New York City, “This is our home base,” Schelp says. “We’ve really gotten integrated into the community. There’s something about the dynamic of this neighborhood where people form these friendships and these relationships that are very traditional and seem very natural.”
Before landing in Allentown, they had considered other possibilities: Connecticut, New York State, even Texas. But those zip codes just couldn’t compete with the Queen City. And that’s been a pleasant surprise. Says Schelp: “If you said to me in January of 2020, ‘You’re going to live in Allentown, Pennsylvania,’ I would have been like, ‘What? No way.’”
Well, they're living here in Allentown.
with outdoor lighting that will elevate your curb appeal and wow your evening guests. Our professionally installed systems will increase your home’s value while providing you with years of added beauty and safety to your property.
INTERESTED IN TRANSFORMING YOUR HOME? REACH OUT TODAY TO REQUEST A FREE ESTIMATE.
At eight years old Chef Frances Mullen was already cooking and whipping up meals like hamburgers and tuna sandwiches. By 13 she was making rice and beans and by 14 she created an entire Thanksgiving spread along with delicious homemade pies for dessert. Her mom taught her how to cook. “She used to make everything from scratch and I loved helping her and learning from her along the way," says Mullen. The memories of spending time with her mom in the kitchen are some of her favorite
childhood memories. When her mom got sick, she took on the responsibility of making the three meals a day for her family. "The love of food was always there but it is the act of feeding someone, making a meal that they will love, and nourishing someone that I love most about cooking,” says Mullen. “The recipes aren’t really the important part. It's the love behind the meal. Everything I make is made with it.”
Here, Mullen is sharing her recipe for Panchitas Carnitas. It is a dish that
she often made for her own children, who always requested it. “My kids are my number one fans and I love the happiness my food brings them,” she says. “You can use pork or chicken for this recipe that is then marinated in vinegar and spices and grilled for a flavorful tender protein often served with rice. It is quick and easy and everyone will love it."
Mullen opened Panchitas Kitchen because of the encouragement from her husband and her family. When thinking of what she
would call her business, she decided to honor her grandmother and use her nickname “Panchitas.”
“The biggest compliment I receive is after someone takes a bite of my food and says it reminds them of home,” she shares. “Food has that power to transport us back to our own nostalgic memories, to be comforting and filled with love.”
Panchitas Kitchen is available for events, catering and cooking lessons.
Panchitas Kitchen | 267.270.2043
panchitas-kitchen.com
Total prep time: 20–30 minutes
Servings: 3, approximately
INGREDIENTS
1–2 pounds of boneless pork or chicken ½ tsp. salt
¼ tsp. black pepper
½ tsp. garlic powder
¼ tsp. oregano
1 Tbsp. white or red wine vinegar
¼ packet Sazón Goya (optional)
1 Tbsp. canola oil
Cut meat into small bite-size pieces and remove all fat that is in excess.
Place meat in a medium mixing bowl and sprinkle with dry seasonings; mix together.
Add vinegar and mix until all seasonings and vinegar are incorporated. (You can set in refrigerator to marinate until ready to cook, but no longer than two days.)
Heat a flat skillet or griddle to medium-high temperature for about 2–3 minutes. Add canola oil to pan.
Add the meat and brown on each side for at least 10 minutes (or maximum 20 minutes) to make sure it is properly cooked.
Serve over rice or in tacos or alongside baked or mashed potatoes. Pick a side and enjoy!
Tag @lvstylemag when you make it at home!
Tall glass vases of long-stemmed, deep-red roses grace the tables of Cavallo’s, and there’s also— always—a vase of roses in the kitchen, says chef Brondo Cavallo. Therein lies the story of this restaurant.
Dine in any of the five private dining rooms, over five to six courses served at a leisurely pace, and time seems to stand still. There’s a classic Old World sensibility here, built on attention to detail and pleasures of the moment, a sensibility that fosters stopping to smell the roses, or at least see them—everywhere.
Cavallo’s finds its home in a sprawling villa-like building— just off Route 611, minutes south of Easton—that was constructed piece by piece over decades. An eclectic collection of art and antiques fills every corner, and lingering aromas of simmering sauces and freshfrom-the-oven bread promise fine food and flavor.
Of course, tables are topped with white cloths. But that’s just the beginning. Century-old, gold-encrusted Heinrich China chargers add gracious elegance, and regal red tapers, towering in ornate golden candelabras, invoke grandeur. Tiffany lights punctuate the interior landscape with brilliant jewel tones; imposing Europeanlooking cupboards and large carved and upholstered chairs create an air of historic charm.
Wandering through Cavallo’s is akin to a treasure hunt.
At the heart of its treasure is the kitchen—a kitchen that quickly transports you to the French countryside. Gleaming copper pots in all sizes and shapes hang from the ceiling, and sauté pans, filled with vegetables and aromatics, hiss on the massive stove lining one side of the long, narrow room. From here, the restaurant’s heartbeat, comes a cuisine
that blends classic French and Italian fare, prepared with tried-and-true techniques. Diners choose appetizer and entrée selections; the other three to four courses are chef’s choice, so dinner becomes its own journey discovering treasures of taste.
Onion soup’s stock, dark with concentrated flavor, infuses meltingly tender pieces of onion. Chunks of beef shin add texture, and a peak of imported Pecorino Romano breaking the soup’s surface shows focus on subtlety of flavor, not an overpowering layer of cheese so often found in onion soup. The bread is baguette style— golden, super crusty and studded with sesame seeds, a fine accompaniment to soup so savory.
A slice of summer memory is pizza rustica. Tomato sauce, obviously reduced to its flavor essence with basil and garlic, tops a thin homemade crust, dusted with textural sesame seeds, along with a spiral slice of caramelized onion and sliver of fresh tomato. Were summer tomatoes really as good as this?
Winning contrast sets up crisped, grilled sausage against a large square of tender homemade ravioli filled with mellow winter melon (squash) in a pasta course. Topped with sauce—a mélange of porcini mushrooms, Moscato grapes and cranberries—the ravioli brings earthy and gentle sweet notes to the plate.
Ricotta al forno—Cavallo’s homemade ricotta, roasted with cracked black pepper imparting a hint of lingering heat—is paired with a perfect prawn, precisely cooked to optimum tenderness, and a leaf of endive stuffed with roasted squash, eggplant, onion and garlic, touched judiciously with capers.
Onion Soup
With beef shin and Pecorino Romano
Of the main courses—osso buco, chateaubriand, lamb, sea bass and lobster—double roasted duck with raspberry glaze is a wise selection. The sticky-sweet glaze glistens on the fowl’s crisped skin, its fruity essence balancing the duck’s complexity, bringing new meaning to “finger-lickin’ good.” Candied yam and roasted potato round out the plate along with a roasted mushroom scored to look like a flower.
Perhaps saving the best for last, Grand Marnier chocolate soufflé is the meal’s pièce de résistance—the dark chocolate soufflé’s pillowy plateau, dusted with confectioners’ sugar, rising far above its white bowl. What a conundrum is this classic dessert, with its texture at once light and airy, yet dense with deep, dark and intense chocolate flavor. Paired with raspberry sauce and Madagascar vanilla whipped cream, which add clean fruit notes and textural contrast, this picture of sweet perfection delights in many ways.
Pizza Rustica
Homemade crust, fresh tomato and caramelized onion
Ricotta al Forno
Roasted homemade ricotta, prawn in saffron butter glaze, endive with roasted squash and eggplant
Surprises come at every turn at Cavallo’s. Perhaps it’s one of the chef’s-choice courses, or the discovery of a grand, shining silver punch bowl while meandering through dining rooms. Perhaps it’s the circular marble steps in the tower room or the portrait gallery filled with paintings of Brondo, his parents, siblings and grandparents by Antonio Salemme, who was a family friend. Or, during a tour of the restaurant, perhaps it’s a roaming server’s offer of bacon-wrapped dates— delectably warm and chewy with smoky, salty sweetness.
Stories come at every turn as well. People come from everywhere to dine at the restaurant, Brondo says. “[They] fly in for dinner. I love when they stay here. I like to make them breakfast, tell them stories.” A few favorites: when Luciano Pavarotti visited, conversation and camaraderie filled the dining room until he and his entourage left at 5:30 a.m.; and when David Bowie ate at Cavallo’s, he tried repeatedly—but unsuccessfully—to convince Brondo’s mother, Shirley, to sell him an intricately carved antique desk from England with lots of intriguing secret compartments.
Stories about the restaurant’s provenance prove fascinating. Brondo’s father, a chiropractor who treated race horses and other animals along with people, bought the 114-acre property in the late 1950s. In 1976, he moved a horse tack shop, rolling it on logs, from the barn to today’s restaurant location, where it became a roadside stand called The Country Cottage. Shirley sold sausage sandwiches on homemade bread there, serving at tables with blue gingham cloths.
Plumbing came next, then a porch, which became the first restaurant in the 1980s. A bistro room with a woodfired pizza oven and coffee bar was added around 1990; the tower room and a specialty dining room with a spit fireplace were added around this time as well.
Shirley was a force of nature, filling the restaurant with her passions for antiques, copper pots, objets d’art and art in general until it became a retrospective of her travels and pursuits. On a trip to Palermo, Italy, she came across horse, donkey and goat carts painted in a vibrant folk-art style that had been used in cultural shows and processions. She “charmed” the owner into selling them to her—armature, plumes and all—even though it was generally understood this regional folk art should remain in Palermo. Today the carts bring their own charm to the restaurant’s dining rooms.
Treasures from Lehigh Valley history made it into Shirley’s collections, too: a golden clock and life-sized gold frame from Hess’s French Room; two conference room tables from Martin Tower; ceiling beams from the first church building of Easton’s Lebanese community; and the kitchen’s range hood that hails from the Dixie Cup factory’s second-floor cafeteria in Easton.
Shirley’s major passion for food played out in cooking: she studied with chefs Julie Dannenbaum and Jacques Pépin, among others, and served as one of the first guest chefs at the James Beard House in New York City. She taught Brondo everything she knew; he also studied cooking, food and hospitality at Penn State, at Italy’s University of Bologna and at a restaurant in Naples, Italy.
He’s been “cooking,” he says, since he was five, when his job was squeezing oranges for juice and washing dishes that were never-ending—and still are. “I can do 1,000 things at once,” says Brondo, “and it all gets done.”
Since Shirley passed away in 2020, Brondo has adjusted to being chef de cuisine. “I want to keep things exactly the same,” he says. “I like tradition.” His garden, from which he harvests watercress, herbs, tomato, squash, burdock root and okra, is inspired by the garden his mother always grew.
As before, dinner at Cavallo’s takes up several hours. “We have to make sure no one is in a rush,” Brondo says. “We try to make a unique experience.”
The restaurant has never advertised, and that’s not about to change, either. “We were always word of mouth; the right people always find us,” he says. “There are still people out there looking for something
different, something special and homemade.”
And that’s the tradition he seeks to carry on, the tradition of filling the restaurant with roses and Old World comfort and conversation— the tradition created by his parents as they built Cavallo’s. “I wake up every day with the idea that I am living my dream,” says Brondo, “but I want to make my mother and father proud.”
510 S. Delaware Dr., Easton 610.252.2500 | cavallos.us
Dinner only Thurs.–Mon., starting at 5 p.m.
Cost: $175 PP prepaid by credit card or mailed check.
Parking: Ample parking in lot at restaurant.
Reservations: Required in advance.
Female lobster in preparation for Lobster a l’Américaine
The Flying Egg’s list of coffee cocktails changes seasonally, offering new indulgences yearround, but the Kahpuccino is always available to order. “It’s one of our most popular coffee drinks and continues to be a staple on our drink list,” says owner Cara Parades “Who wouldn’t want an elevated cappuccino?”
Elevated indeed, the Kahpuccino combines freshbrewed espresso, Kahlúa liqueur and steamed milk. It’s garnished with cinnamon. “This drink has a dark coffee flavor with notes of vanilla and cinnamon,” explains Parades. “The Kahlúa is a smooth subtle flavor and the cinnamon rounds out the drink.”
The team at The Flying Egg recommends enjoying this one nice and warm, but all of their drinks can be made hot or iced. They suggest pairing the Kahpuccino with any of their omelets or signature French toasts.
And as for those other seasonal boozy coffee creations, Parades says if they have the ingredients they can always make them: “We have around six other spiked coffee drinks that are rotated. Some seasonal flavors throughout the year include coconut, caramel and gingerbread.”
Prefer a buzz without the caffeine? Popular brunch cocktails include their Bloody Mary (Ultimate or Monster, it’s your choice) as well as their ever-changing mimosa variations.
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