Hopewell Valley, NJ July 2022 by City Lifestyle

PREMIERE ISSUE

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Our heart has a new look, but it’s still at the center of all we do. Hunterdon Health’s heart has always been a symbol of compassionate care and clinical expertise. Our highly skilled doctors, nurses and health professionals are committed to personalized care that lets you and your family enjoy life’s everyday moments. To learn more about how we’re evolving, scan the QR code.

Hopewell Valley Real Estate Pulse from the Dave Marcolla Group at Keller Williams Real Estate Contact us to get your FREE home valuation today. Meet Dave Marcolla, Hopewell Township resident and top area Realtor. Dave has lived in the Township for over 10 years and specializes in Mercer and Bucks Counties. Last year he sold 60 homes for $30 million in closed sales. He and his team are experts in what they do. Dave is a graduate of the Princeton School of Real Estate and holds his MBA from La Salle University. Contact him today to find out why he and his team are known for delivering a better experience!

6 0 9. 42 3 . 9 147

Direct

21 5 . 86 0. 42 0 0

Of fice

DAV E @ DAV E M A R C O L L A .C O M DAV E M A R C O L L A .C O M

1 2 T E R R Y D R I V E | N E W T O W N , P E N N S Y L V A N I A | L I C E N S E D R E A LT O R S - PA A N D N J

NEIGHBORHOOD

LIST PRICE

BEDS

BATHS

DOM

CLOSE PRICE

%SOLD/ORIG

111 Laning Ave

$1,495,490

$1,450,000

97%

2631 Pennington Rd

$1,295,000

$1,163,000

90%

19 Cheyenne Dr

$999,997

$980,000

98%

17 Independence Way

$815,000

$846,150

104%

129 Woosamonsa Rd

$889,900

$815,000

92%

20 Steeple View Ct

$765,000

100%

55 N Union St

$695,000

$675,000

97%

20 Old Foundry Dr

$569,999

$611,000

107%

15 Patterson Ave

$565,000

$590,000

104%

18 Tucker Way

$565,000

$575,000

102%

Source: Bright MLS 4/16/22 - 5/15/22

Wondering how to make a winning offer in today’s competitive market? A step beyond a pre-approval, the Princeton Pre-Commitment allows you to obtain a full underwrite upfront, prior to finding a home, making your bid competitive with cash offers! Michael Egbert and his team of mortgage professionals will use their extensive product suite to find the right financing solution for your next home. Good things happen when you’re working with a great team!

215.917.6394 Direct 609.737.1000 x262 Office megbert@princetonmortgage.com michaelegbert.princetonmortgage.com PRINCETON MORTGAGE 439 GRAND AVE. EWING, NJ 08628 Disclosures: March 2022 | 2022 Princeton Mortgage Corporation (NMLS# 113856). Corporate office, 439 Grand Ave, Ewing, NJ 08628. (609)737-1000. Equal housing lender. All loans subject to credit approval and individual review. Rates and fees subject to change without notice and may vary depending on loan scenario. For more information, please visit (nmlsconsumeracces.org) or (princetonmortgage.com/legal).

LIFESTYLE LETTER

Inspired By You

July 2022 PUBLISHER

Rachel Schnure | rachel.schnure@citylifestyle.com EDITOR

Julie Brown Patton | julie.patton@citylifestyle.com

Welcome to the inaugural edition of Hopewell Valley City Lifestyle. We're super eager to highlight all local, wonderful people, places and events. Our mission is to be part of aspects that make our communities thrive, spanning Hopewell Township, Hopewell Borough, Pennington Borough, Lambertville and West Amwell. In our monthly publication, we'll focus on our area's rich history as well as exciting plans on the horizon. We'll share stories about life, culture, local businesses, food, drinks, home design, travel, charities, wellness, style, beauty and beneficial services. Our goal is to encompass articles about things that matter most to you, our readers, regarding what's happening and how you can be a part of it or inspired by it. Summer's the perfect time to come up with a wish list of activities to enjoy and ways to unwind and relax — hopefully while reading our new magazine. Some of the greatest summers aren't filled with constant activities and trips, but are those that reflect a slower pace and simple moments of enjoying small details around us. Although the “lazy days of summer” isn’t always something we can attain with our packed schedules, it's refreshing to take time to slow down and enjoy some of the simple pleasures that remind us of our own childhoods. Some of the best times spent can be a backyard barbecue with friends, making s’mores by a fire pit, spending a day on the water, eating snow cones or ice cream on a hot summer day, or simply taking in the night sky. I hope you're able to make memories this summer with those around you who you love. Thanks for inviting us into your homes, and sharing your lives with us; we can’t wait to see you around.

STAFF PHOTOGR APHER

Heather Raub AD DESIGNER

Matthew Endersbe LAYOUT DESIGNER

Sara Minor CONTR IBUTING WR ITER S

Erica Brooke Gordon CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER S

Maria O'Leary Photography, Tom Grimes

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Randy Radosevich DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson AD MANAGER Chad Jensen WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

RACHEL SCHNURE, PUBLISHER @ H O P E W E L LVA L L E YC I T Y L I F E S T Y L E

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Proverbs 3:5-6 Hopewell Valley City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Hopewell Valley area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Hopewell Valley City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources

L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

Still Meadow Farm One-of-a-kind farm with endless potential and revenue streams

Leave behind the stresses of everyday life and turn your farming dreams into reality with this one-of-a-kind property. Still Meadow Farm is a serene haven surrounded by acres of fields and streams and offers endless possibilities for the lucky new owners. Currently, the picture-perfect property is a thriving Christmas tree farm with over 2,500 trees however you could develop a vineyard, revert the land to a sheep farm or even develop a vibrant wedding venue, the choice is all yours. The 300-year-old farmhouse speaks to the history of this remarkable residence plus there’s a two-bedroom carriage house that dates back to the 1940s and could be used as comfortable income-generating guest accommodation. An in-law suite is also attached to the main home with room for loved ones to reside when they come to share this slice of paradise. The primary residence is an expansive & immaculately presented home with seven bedrooms & three bathrooms. Gorgeous features are on show throughout the primary residence from the gleaming wood floors and wood ceilings to the bespoke details, ornate touches and modern comforts.

hunterdonbucksrealty.com 30 Coryell Street | Lambertville, New Jersey

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inside the issue The Summer and Adventure Issue

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

12 Quality-Driven Realtor Team

Lifestyle Letter

Experienced, Self-Motivated And Tenacious Real Estate Professionals

City Scene

Primed To Assist

Business Monthly

Open House

Hot Spot

Locally Owned

Curb Appeal

Fashion Forward

Events

Get Active

Local’s Choice

20 True Classic Detailing

Plus Paintless Dent Repair From This Hopewell Service Business

24 Eye-Catching Landscapes

This Outdoor Beautification Business Pleases Clients, Complete With Smiles

28 Keeping Fashion Fun

A Pennington Boutique All About Community, Unique Clothing And Accessories With Twists

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Maria O'Leary Photography To many, summer means warmth, contentment and thoughts of bright, happy days. This season of the year offers something for everyone to get involved in, with so many vibrant experiences, such as Pennington Day 2022.

HO ME + DES I GN

ENT ERTA I NMENT AU TO + MA R IN E

LO CA L S ERV I C ES S HO PPI NG

FI T NES S LI FE + C U LT U R E

Thank You to all of my Founding Partners. Rachel Schnure Hopewell Valley City Lifestyle Publisher

4 Elements Wellness Center Capital Health Cedar Creek Landscapes Form + Matter Modern Front Room Images Galaxy Tile of Princeton Hopewell Valley Vineyards Hunterdon Bucks Realty Weidel Real Estate Hunterdon Healthcare Jefferson Bath & Kitchen

Old Glory Detailing & Paintless Dent Repair Pixie Salon Princeton Mortgage Shine Apothecary The Buxton Complex The Dave Marcolla Group Keller Williams The Painter’s Loft Art Studio The Pennington Studio The Watershed Institute

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city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen. MARIA O'LEARY PHOTOGRAPHY

MARIA O'LEARY PHOTOGRAPHY

6 MARIA O'LEARY PHOTOGRAPHY

MARIA O'LEARY PHOTOGRAPHY

1: Pennington Day — one of the most anticipated events in Pennington Borough and Hopewell Valley. 2: A colorful Quilt Show inside The Toll Gate Grammar School was offered at Pennington Day. 3: Cross Roads Stage at Pennington Day 2022 hosted live local music, performances and dance troupes. 4: Double-cool way to cool off. 5: Pennington Day 2022 street fair booths featured local businesses, artisans’ activities, food and nonprofits. 6: Pennington Day 2022 was GOAT (Greatest of All Time).

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @hopewellvalleycitylifestyle

C I T Y SC E N E

HOPEWELL TOWNSHIP NJ POLICE

PENNINGTON FIRE COMPANY

D&R GREENWAY LAND TRUST D&R GREENWAY LAND TRUST

7: Sgt. Mirra, officer Gavdanovich and officer Domingo attended NJ Women In Law Enforcement Leadership Training. 8: Patrick Richichi joined Pennington Fire Company in 2021. He holds numerous operations and technician-level certifications. 9: D&R volunteers planted black gum, river birch and elderberry trees and shrubs. 10: D&R stewardship team restored riverbank along Pennington Loop Nature Trail, adding vegetation to slow erosion.

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business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses. New Cancer Treatment Manufacturing Facility Coming To Hopewell Valley BeiGene representatives broke ground on a new manufacturing and clinical R&D center on the former Bristol Myers Squibb campus at the Princeton West Innovation Park in Hopewell. The new center will include a 400,000-squarefoot facility for commercial-stage biologic pharmaceutical manufacturing. The global biotechnology company's leaders indicate the team specializes in developing drugs for cancer treatments. The facility will sit on 42 acres at 311 Pennington Rocky Hill Road. BeiGene has 30-plus offices across five continents.

Meredith McCabe Photography

Vendors Sought For Straube Center Fall Fest Vendors can now register for the Straube Center Fall Fest to be held Oct. 8 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Vendors for arts, crafts, food, jewelry, facepainting, music and entertainment are needed. A $25 deposit is refunded upon setup the day of the event. A pumpkin give-away is slated. For more details, email jennifer@straube.com or call 609.737.3322. She says this is a great fundraising event for nonprofit groups.

Photography Township of Hopewell

Meet Hopewell Township's New Police Chief Hopewell Township has a new police chief. Lt. James Rosso was promoted to lead the department following the resignation of former police director Robert Karmazin. The new chief is a fourth generation police officer. His father retired as deputy warden of Hunterdon County Jail, and his grandfather and great-grandfather were also police chiefs. Of his 23 years in law enforcement thus far, James served 19 in Hopewell, rising from patrol officer to sergeant to lieutenant.

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/HopewellValley

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QUA LIT Y-DRI V EN RE ALTOR TE AM

Before Dave Marcolla restored what's now called 'the blue farmhouse on Pennington Road.'

O PE N H OU SE | HOM E + DE S I GN

EXPERIENCED, SELF-MOTIVATED AND TENACIOUS REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS PRIMED TO ASSIST For those ready to sell, buy or anything in-between, Hopewell Township resident and Realtor Dave Marcolla says he stands ready to assist -- as a neighbor, philanthropist and as a real estate professional. "Many people know the old blue farmhouse on Pennington Road (formerly owned by Dr. Edmund Cervone), which is a historic home that I bought in 2015 and lovingly restored. I have a passion for

historic architecture and preservation," reveals Dave, adding that the house was the home of one of the headmasters of The Pennington School for nearly 50 years. Dave specializes in properties within Bucks, Mercer and Hunterdon counties, and is licensed in both New Jersey and Pennsylvania. The former marketing executive graduated from the Leadership Academy of the Bucks County Realtors

ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED FROM THE

DAVE MARCOLLA GROUP

Association, Princeton School of Real Estate and holds an master's of business administration degree from La Salle University. He's a certified real estate team leader whose successful business includes a professional group of five members who help him deliver personalized service while handling a large volume of sales. In fact, he was named the 2019, 2020 and 2021 No. 1 producer of the Keller Williams Newtown office, last year closing $30 million in sales during his fourth year in real estate.

"My goal is to provide the support and personal services that make real estate experiences straightforward and pleasant," says the real estate leader who also serves as Cancer Support Community Greater Philadelphia board chairman, as well as Newtown Business Association president and Tucker Commerical Realty president/owner. Dave and his team also assist with investment properties, rentals and commerical real estate. Online reviews of the Dave Marcolla Group reference honest, integrity, quality and knowledgeable skills. "We believe that results and attention to details matter, and we like to encourage our clients 'to expect better,'" Dave says. "It's why I went into real estate; I wanted to provide a better experience than I was used to as a home buyer and seller over the years." “No one needs added stress from something as commonplace as buying or selling a home, and it shouldn't come anywhere close to the levels of stress I was under in my past leadership positions at TD Bank, AT&T and Comcast,” Dave adds. “So I think most clients would say I remove the drama and worry from the transaction." Dave says another of his goals is to build lifelong relationships and to become friends with his clients. "It feels great to be able to impact lives and pay it forward for all those that helped me get where I am today.” Office: 215.860.4200 Mobile: 609.423.9147 DaveMarcolla.KW.com

CONTINUED >

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Photo by Dave Marcolla

The Dave Marcolla Group handled $30 million in sales during 2021.

O PE N H OU SE | HOM E + DE S I GN

Realtor Dave Marcolla was a Top 100 agent in the Tri-State area within Keller Williams in 2021.

Serving Central NJ and Bucks County, PA

CUSTOM POOLS HARDSCAPING • OUTDOOR LIVING • LANDSCAPING Looking for a yard that complements your beautiful home? Call Cedar Creek Landscapes of Pennington, NJ at 609-403-6270 today.

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Uπέροχο φαγητό

Modern Greek comfort food

A Taste Of Homestyle Greece Right In Lambertville ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PAT TON PHOTOG R APHY PROVIDE D FROM LOCAL G RE E K L AM BE RT VILLE

H OT SP OT | ENTERTA INME NT

The restaurant's unique water view.

Local Greek Lambertville restaurant at 2 Canal Street commands a fitting scenic location for authentic Greek fagitó, just a few steps from the Delaware River and New Hope. "Local Greek is a great, new place to gather with family, friends and neighbors to share simple dishes, big flavors, and new-old traditions," says owner/operator Tony Kanterakis, a New Jersey native who launched the eatery during January. "We truly enjoy sharing our love for the distinctive flavors of Greek cuisine and homestyle dishes. In fact, many customers like the vibe of the restaurant, saying it feels like their home." He says his team has had their eyes on that specific location, formerly Towpath restaurant, for about five years, so they felt the timing was right when they discovered the location was for sale. Local Greek's soups and salads offer traditional choices, such as avgolemono soup, kipos, Greek arugala salad and horitiki. Appetizers range from meze, Greek spreads, keftedes, fried calamari and hummus to dolmades, gigantes, saganaki, kolokithokeftedes, ohtapodi and halloumi. Entree choices are aplenty, such as: gyro platter, stuffed bifteki, kofta, souvlaki, lamb chops, village stuffed chicken, branzio, mousakask, terina, panne, veggie papoutsakia, stuffed peppers, solomos and homestyle spinach pie. Even fries are served in a Greek style, topped with feta and oregano. "Our seafood specials, such as red snapper and swordfish, have been popular," Tony shares. Desserts, of course, include loukoumades donuts, galaktobouriko filled dough, baklava, bougatsa, ekmek kataifi shredded dough and portokalopita homemade orange cake. The restaurant is BYOB while New Jersey wines by Old York Cellars also are offered. They just hosted a wine tasting event in May. Tony says the weekend brunch menu spans eggs, waffles, Greek style pancakes, French toast, spanaki sandwiches, halloumi toast, Greek grilled cheese, a variety of omelettes, a Greek Benedict and burgers. "We also offer catering for all seasons, with both hot and cold options," he reminds.

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“LOCAL GREEK IS A GREAT, NEW PL ACE TO GATHER WITH FAMILY, FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS TO SHARE SIMPLE DISHES, BIG FL AVORS, AND NEW- OLD TRADITIONS.”

H OT SP OT | ENTERTA INME NT

As a former financial planner, Tony changed careers to assist his mother with her Greek bakery in central New Jersey. He opened his first Local Greek restaurant during November 2017 in Princeton. Then, during August 2019, he launched Small Bites by Local Greek on Nassau Street in Princeton to offer custom Greek graband-go in the heart of Princeton. Tony's quick to credit his devoted staff for standout customer service. They've even been known to break out in Greek dances, especially when live music is playing. Lambertville Hours are: • Mondays through Fridays Noon to 9 p.m. • Saturday 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. • Sundays: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. 609.460.4021 LocalGreekLambertville.com

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JULY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/H OP E W E L LVA L L E Y

True

ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED FROM

Classic OLD GLORY DETAILING AND PDR

Detailing

PLUS PAINTLESS DENT REPAIR FROM THIS HOPEWELL SERVICE BUSINESS

Old Glory Detailing and PDR owner Steve Zarodnansky says his team helps clients fall in love with their vehicles over and over again. Based in Hopewell, Old Glory specialists provide a range of auto repair services, such as polishing, shampooing, paint correction, odor removal, ding repair, headlight restoration and window tinting. They provide services in the Hopewell shop at 130 W. Broad St., or via mobile rigs. Steve has detailed cars for 20-plus years, and has been professionally maintaining show cars and daily drivers for more than 11 years. Time for detailing jobs depends on the size and condition of the vehicle, says Steve. For a maintenance detail, it takes about an hour and a half. However, for the first servicing of a vehicle, he says it often takes between 2-3 hours. "I've found that having the detail done while clients are at work can be optimal, as they come out to a detailed vehicle, and the time needed to perform the work doesn't interfere with daily life," he adds. "We also offer complimentary loaner cars at our shop." CONTINUED >

LOCA LLY OWN E D | AU TO + MARI NE

JULY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/H OP E W E L LVA L L E Y

Steve Zarodnansky, Old Glory Detailing and PDR owner

While there are limits for what repairs can be done via Paintless Dent Repair, Steve says many dents can be repaired to new, or almost-new condition. He says the team at Old Glory Detailing has a combined 50 years of experience cleaning, polishing, shampooing, waxing and ceramic coating vehicles. "Each team member is constantly training, and as members of the IDA, they're always testing the latest detailing tools and products. Working on everything from daily drivers to million dollar exotics, the Old Glory Team takes pride in providing the best results, the best communication and a great customer experience every time," he adds. Current Old Glory services include classic/express/ enthusiast detail packages; a detailing maintenance plan; paintless dent repair; headlight restoration; ceramic coatings; paint correction; window tinting; odor removal; plus detailing for motorcycles, boats and RVs. Additionally, Steve says one of their technicians currently is in Sacramento training to handle interior repairs. Industry specialists indicate other benefits of auto detailing include disinfecting surfaces, maintaining the paint, minimizing/eliminating micro-scratches or swirls, reducing exterior air drag, removing interior stains, extracting embedded pet hair, helping the underbody to remain in good condition, decreasing allergy-causing atmospheres and increasing overall value. Steve says regular detailing often increases resale value of autos, and that ceramic coatings make keeping the vehicle clean much easier. The Old Glory team also contributes to the overall community through making monthly donations to the Stephen Siller Foundation, Boots for Troops, Veterans Haven North and Veterans Comfort House. Old Glory donates to local Fire and Rescue Squads and works with local High School PTAs to help various class fundraisers. They currently are fundraising for the September Tunnel to Towers Run to benefit the Stephen Siller Foundation. (On Sept. 11, 2001, firefighter Stephen Siller drove his truck to the entrance of the Brooklyn Battery Tunnel, but it already was closed for security purposes. Determined to carry out his duty, he strapped 60 pounds of gear to his back, and raced on foot through the tunnel to the Twin Towers, where he gave up his life saving others.) 609.433.6532 OldGloryDetailingPDR.com

LOCA LLY OWN E D | AU TO + MARI NE

It is your story...

...that has made you who you are.

(609) 203-9334

STAY CONNECTED TO YOUR COMMUNITY FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM

FRONTROOMIMAGES.COM

114 Straube Center Blvd. Pennington, NJ 08534 (609) 737-1264 thepenningtonstudio.com

Good news happening right in your neighborhood.

Inspiration for your best local life.

Exclusive giveaways.

Hidden gem alert!

Local content by local creators.

the power of

creativity in wellness

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™ HOPEWELL VALLEY CITY LIFESTYLE™ AHWATUKEE CITY LIFESTYLE

ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED FROM CEDAR CREEK LANDSCAPES

EY E-CATCHI NG LA NDSCA PES

For every client to be 100% satisfied is the goal of Brian Knisley, founder of Cedar Creek Landscapes. As a lifelong Pennington resident, Brian says he started working in the landscaping industry when he was 18 years old. Now, he is at the helm of Cedar Creek Landscapes, with the administrative support of his wife, Samantha, and the cheering of their twin sons Brady and Cooper, and office dogs, Levi and Archer.

C UR B A P P E A L | LOCA L S E RVI CE S

THIS OUTDOOR BEAUTIFICATION BUSINESS PLEASES CLIENTS, COMPLETE WITH SMILES

"We offer the highest quality of outdoor living features and landscape designs for homeowners and property owners in Pennington, Hopewell, Princeton, Titusville and surrounding areas. For every project we undertake, you can count on our experienced, skilled and creative team to bring your landscape improvement dreams to reality," says Brian. Their services include hardscaping; patio pavers; masonry; chimneys; concrete footings; foundations; outdoor kitchens; custom pools; pool houses; pergolas; roof structures; fencing; landscape lighting; landscape installation; as well as drainage and stormwater management. "For the past few years, we've been installing an increasing number of custom pools, along with the other steps and amenities that come with entire backyard

renovations. We realize landscaping plays a prominent role in new pool projects and want to provide our clients with complete, ready-to-enjoy outdoor solutions," says Brian. He says there are a variety of valid reasons for homeowners to augment with landscape lighting: increases safety, adds security, provides access to all aspects of one's property, adds decor, illuminates aesthetics, and adds curb appeal. Brian says they use a variety of bluestone, natural stone, limestone, brownstone and natural stone veneered concrete block wall products to complete customized projects. "Each day, we focus on making our clients' outdoor living spaces the best they can be. No matter how out-of-scope your ideas are, our reliable team can help bring your outdoor oasis to life," assures Brian. "Our results also help increase property values." 609.403.6270 CedarCreekLandscapes.com

CONTINUED >

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“For the past few years, we've been installing an increasing number of custom pools, along with the other steps and amenities that come with entire backyard renovations. We realize landscaping plays a prominent role in new pool projects and want to provide our clients with complete, ready-toenjoy outdoor solutions.” 26

C UR B A P P E A L | LOCA L S E RVI CE S

I F YO U A R E READING THIS... S O I S YO U R B E S T C L I E N T.

2 OU T OF 3 of our readers regularly purchase from our ads.

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A Pennington Boutique All About Community, Unique Clothing And Accessories With Twists

ARTICLE BY ERICA BROOKE GORDON PHOTOGRAPHY BY TOM GRIMES

Keeping Fashion Fun

From its logo, designed with a flower peeping out of the “O,” to the decorative flowers and brightly colored sundresses visible from the storefront window display, it’s clear that Poppy Boutique in Pennington is a happy, friendly place to shop. It’s not surprising then that the store is known for its selection of “original, unique, fun fashion.”

FASH ION F OR WA R D | SHOPPI NG

The owner of Poppy Boutique, Janice Mintz, an attorney-turned-fashion entrepreneur, says the name came from a suggestion she heard during a focus group she had organized, once deciding to seriously take her love of fashion further. "As soon as I heard 'Poppy,' I said, "That's it!" she explains. "I loved the name, and I love flowers. The whole concept came about as a community effort. It's become a community of women who really enjoy it and see it as a place where they can come and shop and check-in and say hi." After leaving a demanding career as an attorney, one can understand why the fledgling business owner would want to keep things fun. "That's what it's all about," she says. To that end, the shop features a good selection of tops and tees, sweaters, pants, denim, casual and special occasion dresses, jewelry, and accessories – perfect, everyday pieces not found anywhere else. "I try to have in the boutique things you can wear again and again," she says. Over the years, the boutique has generated a steady stream of loyal customers, who, as Janice says, represent a "wide spectrum of women" ranging in age from 20-year-old college students to women 80-plus years young -- perhaps largely because the pieces she selects have wide appeal. "We try to buy things at a good intersection between preppy and boho that appeal to a wide array of women," she describes of the shop’s style. Poppy's prices, say its owner, range anywhere from $50 to $250. "I love providing interesting, quality fashion that's also affordable," she explains. "I hope that everyone who walks in the door finds something they love that makes them happy." CONTINUED > JULY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/H OP E W E L LVA L L E Y

At the same time, she encourages her customers to be open to trying new trends. "We encourage people to try something on they might otherwise be timid about," she says, noting one experience where a customer tried on, in her opinion, the dreaded jumpsuit -- and, to her surprise, loved the way it looked and felt. The entrepreneur was always a lover of fashion, yet her first career was in law. After practicing for 17 years, she walked away to achieve a better work-life balance. For seven years, she was a full-time mom, but she explains that, as her kids grew older, she started thinking about her next chapter. Over time, she says, everything fell into place. "I've always loved fashion," she says. "I jokingly say it was in my DNA." With a grandmother who was a seamstress and a brother who was a fashion designer, it seemed like a logical transition – yet, a gradual one. Janice built up the courage to start a business by watching a friend do it. Without any strategic plan, she started the business as a part-time endeavor – a way to get her feet wet – with a small space in a local salon. Interestingly, she explains this is where her background in law served her well: "Lawyers tend to be conservative and more analytical in their approach to things, so that definitely came into play in terms of how cautious I was." She says she took "baby steps" as she learned, and as the business grew. This was, according to her, "by design," as she "didn't want to create expectations until [she] knew what [she] was doing.” By 2018, after having moved to a different pop-up spot, Janice says she had learned how to run a successful fashion boutique.

What's In Store at Poppy? Summertime is about enjoying summer while transitioning to fall, with items like light, versatile sweaters in fall colors, jumpsuits, and dresses. Summer fashion staples – sundresses, tees, shorts – also are available, plus new items: • • • •

Shoes Summer hats Seasonal handbags Gifts, including curated holiday collections

FASH ION F OR WA R D | SHOPPI NG

As the store grew, she brought on two employees, or "stylists," as she calls them: Nina from California and Rebecca, their “resident jeans queen.” By 2019, Poppy moved to its first brick-and-mortar location, a small space at 8 North Main Street in Pennington. Before long, the shop had outgrown the space, yet its owner didn't want to leave her prime downtown location. This is because Poppy Boutique, she agrees, owes much to the local community – its storefront display that changes weekly attracts people to pop in on a whim to shop or just say hello. Fortunately, when a larger space a few doors down became available, Janice jumped at the opportunity. She renovated it, and in February 2022, moved Poppy Boutique to its new location at 4 North Main Street. More space means more room for items her customers love, such as accessories. Poppy Boutique clearly evolved since its humble beginnings in 2015. Looking back on the past seven years, its owner says, “It just kind of worked out, one step in front of the other. I feel like there’s a bit of karma in this business for me, too.” While she already has some ideas for the future brewing, for now, she’s taking it all one step at a time. "I’m always thinking about how we can do things better," she says. "The community really will probably determine that. I’d say we want to keep doing what we’re doing well and keep making it a happy place to shop.” 609.455.6554 PoppyStyleNJ.com

J U LY 2 0 2 2

events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

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Feed The Beast Mountain Bike Tourney

355 WAS HIN GTON CR OS S I NG P E NNI NGTO N R OA D, T I T US V I L L E | 1 :0 0 P M The race takes place near camp sites in Washington Crossing Park on the NJ side. Participants complete in heats of four riders on 2-mile loop consisting of fields, with sections of single track, a few features and a climb. The Kids course will be 1 mile exclusively on fields. Participants need not be an experienced mountain biker to compete. BucksCoTriClub.com/2022-Feed-The-Beast-series.html

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“The Little Mermaid”

MUS IC MOUN TAIN THEATR E / L A MB E RT V I L L E | 1 1 :0 0 A M Based on the children’s story by Hans Christian Andersen, a little mermaid dreams of going on land. Banished by her father, the King of the Sea, she is banished from the kingdom and forced to fend for herself. The performance is designed for all ages. Show times are 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Tickets are $10 each.

Pennington Farmers Market

ROS EDALE MILLS | 9:00 AM The market runs through 1 p.m. on Saturdays. Local growers offer the Garden State's organic fruits, herbs, vegetables, grass-fed beef, flowers, wine, baked goods, bread, eggs, olives, pickles, handmade soaps and alpaca-hair blankets, children's hats and shawls. Local bands are a highlight for shoppers, and an environmental booth answers recycling questions and accepts an astonishing range of materials for repurposing.

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Summer Concert Series

HOPEWELL STATION | 7:15 P M Join 75-plus Blawenburg Band members perform traditional American marches, classical tunes and modern medleys while the sun sets behind the historic train station. The community band started in 1890. Bring a lawn chair, snacks, beverages and bug spray. Weather cancellations will be announced on the Blawenburg Band Facebook page and website BlawenburgBand.org , as well as the Hopewell Borough website. J U LY 1 7 T H

Darla Rich Jazz (DRJ) Concert

HOPEWELL VALLEY VIN EYA R DS | 5 :30 P M Guitarist, Rich Tarpinian, and upright bassist, Darla Isaacs Tarpinian, have been a part of the local jazz scene since 2000. Their repertoire includes jazz, standards and pop nostalgia, as well as original compositions. Through creative expression and improvisation, they state they seek to present their musical selections in a way that complements the composer's rich melodies and harmonies.

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Mercer County 4-H Fair

HOW ELL LIVIN G HISTORY FA R M/ L A MB E RT V I L L E | 1 0 :0 0 A M The fair includes animal shows, exhibits, homemade ice cream, hay rides, pony rides, music, magic shows and farm tours. Check out displays by the Rutgers Master Gardeners of Mercer County, Mercer County Wildlife Center Friends and Mid-State Beekeepers Association. Free admission and parking. Organizers request a non-perishable food donation for Rutgers Against Hunger. Call 609.989.6830 or email bejgrowicz@njaes.rutgers.edu.

JULY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/H OP E W E L LVA L L E Y

MAYHEM ATHLETE

Online Bodyweight and Minimal Equipment Workouts

Sweaty and challenging workouts done in 30 minutes or less at home

ARTICLE BY KELSEY HARRIS AND JEN FRUDAKER

G E T ACT IV E | FITN ESS

Bags are packed, reservations are made, and the Out of Office automatic reply is letting everyone know you have officially entered vacation mode. There’s one thing that’s lingering: how to go on vacation without pressing pause on the fitness progress you’ve made, or avoid commuting to a gym and paying drop-in fees. Mayhem Athlete provides online programming that guarantees challenging workouts which can be done in 30 minutes or less. These quick but effective workouts incorporate compound movements such as burpees, push ups and lunges. Compound movements use more than one muscle group, requiring more energy from your muscles to recover. This means you can continue to burn calories while enjoying the beach or sitting at work, long after the workout is over. The Mayhem Athlete M30 program offers two options for all fitness levels. Mayhem Bodyweight, a 30-minute format that requires no equipment, and Mayhem Minimal, a 30-minute format which only requires a couple dumbbells. Mayhem Athletes’ easy to use app, SugarWOD, provides you with a warm up, workout, accessory cool-down, and coaching video - ensuring you get the most out of your 30 minutes! You can also find video demonstrations for each movement within the app and a community of like-minded individuals who are doing the same workouts around the globe.

WIN a Mayhem Athlete Package! City Lifestyle and Mayhem Athlete are giving five winners a $300 bundle! This giveaway closes on July 15, 2022. For a chance to win, follow @citylifestyle and @mayhemathlete on Instagram and tag unlimited friends and family on the July 1st giveaway post for additional entries to win.

$300+ PACKAGE INCLUDES: • • • •

3-month WHOOP membership + band 3-month Mayhem Athlete membership $50 Mayhem Apparel gift card $25 Buffalo Brew Coffeehouse gift card

Scan the QR Code or use Code CITY30 for a FREE 30 day Trial

CHECK OUT A SAMPLE OF THE MAIN WORKOUT OPTIONS PROVIDED IN THEIR APP. Mayhem 30 - Bodyweight In 12:00 Minutes - complete these 3 movements, in order, as many times as possible • 6 Burpees • 8 Sit Ups • 12 Alternating Bodyweight Stepback Lunges (Total)

Mayhem 30 - Minimal Equipment In 12:00 Minutes - complete these 3 movements in order, as many times as possible • 6 Burpees over the Dumbbells • 8 Sit Ups • 12 Single Dumbbell Stepback Lunges (Total)

Daily workouts featuring a variety of movements like squats, push-ups, dumbbell deadlifts, running, and more, to keep fitness fun whether you are at home or on the go JULY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/H OP E W E L LVA L L E Y

favorite things

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PUBLISHER RACHEL SCHNURE SHARES A FEW OF THE MANY OFFERINGS SHE ADORES ABOUT THIS LOCAL COMMUNITY

Photo by Brick Farm Tavern

Photo courtesy of Titusville Fourth of July parade organizers.

Photo courtesy of Foxy Red's

06 The Hopewell Valley region offers everything from festivals, open spaces, parks and wildlife refuges to quaint boutiques, history and bustling markets. We're proud to be in the heart of New Jersey's Heartland. Hopewell Valley City Lifestyle publisher Rachel Schnure highlights a few of her favorite local points. 01. Shrimp Caesar Salad from Boro Market Restaurant Bar. // 02. Everything about Brick Farm Tavern. // 03. Titusville Fourth of July parade--how Americana it is to enjoy the parade with a backdrop of the Delaware where George Washington crossed with his troops. // 04. Running the 5K Turkey Trot each Thanksgiving morning. // 05. Spending a day shopping in Lambertville and concluding with The Boat House cocktails. // 06. Enjoying wine with friends at Hopewell Valley Vineyards.

LOCA L’S CH OICE | L IFE + CULTURE

EXCEPTIONAL • AUTHENTIC • VINTAGE • MODERN • DESIGN

(412) 996-6336 45 BRIDGE STREET LAMBERTVILLE, NEW JERSEY

A CURATION OF INDIE BEAUTY WITH A SOUL

M A K E U P · S K I N C A R E · B O DYC A R E · H A I R C A R E www.shineapothecar y.com