Berks County Living June 2023

20 items to

SI P& S AV OR REGION’S PREMIER LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

UNCOVER WONDERS ofBerks

ANDREA SMITH, DDS

Owner/Prosthodontist

Berks Prosthodontics

Dr. Andrea Smith is the founder of Berks Prosthodontics. A prosthodontist is a dental specialist who has completed dental school plus a three-year Advanced Prosthodontics residency at an ADA-accredited graduate program focusing on technical excellence in the restoration and replacement of teeth. Prosthodontists are THE acknowledged experts in dental implant restorations, crowns, bridges, dentures, cosmetic dentistry, and full-mouth implant prosthetics such as Teeth-in-One-Day or All-On-4.

A Berks County native, Dr. Smith received her Bachelor of Science degree in Pre-Medicine from Penn State University, where she graduated as Class Valedictorian of the Eberly College of Science. She then attended the Columbia University College of Dental Medicine in New York City, where she again graduated as Class Valedictorian with a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree. After receiving her dental degree, Dr. Smith completed three years of specialty training in the field of Prosthodontics at UCLA’s Advanced Prosthodontics Residency Program, followed by an additional one-year residency at UCLA in Maxillofacial Prosthetics, making her one of only 350 Maxillofacial Prosthodontists worldwide.

Dr. Smith returned to our area in 2009 to become the first female Clinical Director of the Lancaster Cleft Palate Clinic, the oldest clinic in the world devoted to the treatment of children born with facial birth defects, a position she held for seven years.

In 2015, Dr. Smith opened Berks Prosthodontics in Wyomissing, bringing her specialty training back to her hometown. At Berks Prosthodontics she sees patients with a wide variety of dental concerns, such as broken or missing teeth, uncomfortable dentures, extensive tooth wear, or dissatisfaction with the appearance of their smile. More than 100 area dentists, oral surgeons and other dental specialists trust her to handle their patients’ complex or cosmetic dental needs. From a single perfect tooth to state-of-the-art full mouth reconstruction, Dr. Smith strives to provide all of her patients with an unparalleled level of care.

CONTENTS

FEATURES

Foodie Finds to Sip & Savor

When you think of Berks, you just might think of food — and drinks! We’ve rounded up 20 ideas for you to get on your “must-try” list.

The 7 Wonders of Berks County

We polled residents on what they view as being the 7 Wonders of Berks County. These are the spots that stood out.

BERKS BITS

AROUND TOWN

Three Cheers for Wine & Cheese

IN THE LIMELIGHT with Brian Adams

ART ORIGINALS Brian Clark

THOUGHTS FROM THE CHAMBER B SCENE

THIS MONTH

What to Do & Where to Go

THE LOOK 10 Fun Flip-Flops

PRESIDENT/CEO

Paul Prass

VICE PRESIDENT/COO

Lisa Prass

PUBLISHER

Robyn L. Jones

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Nikki M. Murry

ART DIRECTOR

Elaine Wyborski

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Kaylie Haskins

Thomas Körp

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Heather Baver

Denise Greenwood

Sarah Matarella

Donna Reed

Marian Frances Wolbers

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Tania Colamarino

Ama Photography

Heidi Reuter

John A. Secoges

Secoges Photographics

ACCOUNT REPRESENTATIVES

Elizabeth Beebe

Denise Conlin

Sue Ottenheimer

Susie Smith

Sara Woodward

ACCOUNTING

Donna Bachman

Sarah Varano

CIRCULATION MANAGER

Andrea Karges

COPY EDITOR

Gigi Romano

how to contact us

EDITO RIAL: We want to hear from you — we really do! Send your compliments, gripes, story ideas and suggestions to: Editor, Berks County Living, GoggleWorks Center for the Arts, 201 Washington St., Suite 525, Reading, PA 19601 OR BCLEditor@BerksCountyLiving. com. Written correspondence must be signed and include a mailing address, telephone number and an email address, when possible.

ADVERTISING: To request a media kit or receive other information about advertising, email RJones@BerksCountyLiving.com

SUBSCRIPTIONS: For new subscriptions, changes of address or questions involving an existing subscription, call 800.896.1392, Mon-Fri, 9am-4:30pm, EST. High-quality reprints of articles that appear in Berks County Living are available by emailing RJones@BerksCountyLiving.com. Back issues are available subject to inventory.

FIND US ONLINE: To contact our staff, get advertising information, obtain writer and photographer guidelines, submit an event for the Calendar of Events, or to be included in the Dining Guide, visit our website: www.BerksCountyLiving.com

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Berks County Living, PO Box 293142, Kettering, OH 45429. Berks County Living (ISSN 1542-9334) is published monthly by IDP Publications, 3245 Freemansburg Avenue, Easton, PA 18045-7118. Annual subscriptions are $19.95. (Canadian and foreign one year rate is $40, US funds only). Single copy price $3.95. Periodical postage paid at Easton, PA and additional mailing office. All contents © Berks County Living 2023. Nothing contained herein may be reproduced in whole or in part without the expressed written consent of the publisher. Publisher disclaims all responsibility for omissions or errors. All rights reserved. We welcome, but cannot be responsible

Dr. Patrick Borja Dr. Tyler Rank Dr. Charles Bucklar

Get it While it’s Hot

June ushers in the formal welcome of summer later in the month, and with that, we bring you our Hot Issue! In it, we aim to show you some hot spots right here in the Greater Reading area, be it to visit and enjoy with family and friends, or to order a delicious meal or sensational drink.

In our first-ever Sip & Savor Guide on page 25, we have 20 unique finds from awesome appetizers to enticing entrees, and believe there is something to suit every taste preference. Tell us which you have tried, or plan to, and hit us up with suggestions on menu items found in Berks that you think deserve a shout out in the future.

Appreciate the history and uniqueness of our county when you flip to page 30 to uncover our “7 Wonders of Berks County” as detailed by our readers and social media followers. Did your favorite make the list? Have you visited them all? Put checking out a new spot, or an old favorite, on your to-do list!

In our Living In Style article on page 34, we celebrate the Folino family making something older new again with their Vintner’s Inn renovation on Main Street in Kutztown. Get an exclusive peek inside.

Stay tuned to next month’s issue as we reveal our 10 th Annual Pet Photo Contest winners and tell you how to vote for your 2023 Best of Berks!

ONE MORE THING

Do you have a story idea? We want to hear it! We’re planning our 2024 issues now and would love to hear from you at bcleditor@berkscountyliving.com

STAFF SPEAKS

What food or drink item screams summertime for you?

“Corn on the cob totally screams summertime to me. I love it… but I hate when it gets stuck in my teeth!”

Robyn L. Jones, publisher

“For me, summertime is baseball time, so I’d say a cold beer and a hot dog at a game.”

Nikki M. Murry, editor

“A burger fresh off the grill, fruit salad and a Truly lemonade. They all make me think of a picnic and picnics are one of the best parts of summer!”

Elizabeth Beebe account executive

“Pina Coladas always come to mind in the summertime.”

Sara

Woodward

account executive

“It has to be pick-yourown strawberries from Weaver’s Orchard!”

Susie Smith, account executive

Whip Up Delicious Recipes. They’re healthy, too! Browse Calm Eats by Wyomissing resident Daniela Modesto in our blog section.

Polite Putting. New to golf? There are some particulars to know. Start with those listed in our “7 Rules for Golf Etiquette” feature in our Web Exclusives section.

Get Bonus Content. It’s free! Sign up to be a BCL Insider and get our monthly e-newsletter, info on special events and more. Just click the homepage icon.

EXPLORE WITH US.

Follow along on Instagram as we share delicious foods and shopping discoveries, attend events and more. Just search BCLMag.

GET GRILLING.

Warm weather season is cook-out season. Grab some patty inspiration on our “Burger Recipes” Pinterest board. Search Berks County Living Magazine.

FACEBOOK FOLLOW.

Learn more about what’s happening at Manor Golf Club, featured in our Berks Bits section, at facebook.com/manorgolf

20 items to

FUN Flip-Flop

for he Whole Fam

ofBerks

ON THE COVER

Go bold with your Bloody Mary at The Brick House Pub and find 19 more items to sip and savor in Berks starting on page 25.

PHOTO BY TANIA COLAMARINO, AMA PHOTOGRAPHY | MAKEUP BY THERESA VIOLETTE

Photo by Rayna Salvatori

TEE OFF FOR FUN

If you’re a caregiver to a youngster interested in developing their golf game, Wednesdays are your days this summer. Manor Golf Club in Sinking Spring, a First Tee Lehigh & Berks Chapter host site for more than 12 years, will offer its summer program for those aged 7 to 11 years. Led by First Tee instructor Ryan McGovern, the program “will empower kids and teens with valuable life skills via the game of golf in a fun, safe, team-oriented program,” says owner Cheryl Heckman. No clubs are needed as equipment is available on site to borrow. A second program for age 12 years and older is also offered in partnership with Sitler Golf. It all kicks off June 21 and wraps on Aug. Hours are from 11:30am to 1:30pm. For more info or to register visit themanorgolfclub.com or call Cheryl at 610.334.8690 –

NIKKI M. MURRY

Sojourn Down the Schuylkill

This year marks the 15th anniversary of the Schuylkill River Greenways Schuylkill River Sojourn on June 17-23 kicking off in Schuylkill Haven Park. Paddling starts at 9am each day and day paddlers should plan to be at their starting location by 7:30am. “Full trip paddlers will camp each night along the way and end the trip at Boathouse Row in Philadelphia. People can join the trip for just one day, the weekend, or pick a few days through the week,” explains Rosemary Keane, Communications Director, Schuylkill River Greenways. The Sojourn is the signature event for the nonprofit dedicated to connecting people and communities to the Schuylkill River and to the Heritage Area of the watershed. Says Keane, “Once people get connected to the river (and the Sojourn is the perfect way) they become ambassadors in a sense, encouraging others to interact with and protect the amazing natural and historical resource that is the Schuylkill River.” Looking to register or for more info? Visit schuylkillriver.org –

NIKKI M. MURRY

CELEBRATING JUNETEENTH IN BERKS

“The observance of Juneteenth is about the journey and achievement of African Americans – from a horrific period of sanctioned enslavement to the pinnacle of human endeavors. It is a story of pride, resilience and determination that will always be of historical and spiritual importance as it serves us well to understand that together, we can overcome all obstacles in our path,” explains Stacey Taylor, President of Juneteenth Reading PA. To that end, a Juneteenth Weekend Celebration is planned for June 15-18, and includes the 34th Annual Dr. Ronald E. Smith Awards and Recognition Scholarship Banquet on June 15, a Flag Raising Ceremony at City Hall and Kickoff Luncheon and Opening Ceremonies on June 16, as well as a Community Family Barbecue on June 17, and Praise & Worship and Closing Ceremonies on June 18, including a prayer walk in the community addressing healing, violence and salvation. Times and up-to-date information for those interested in attending and celebrating can be found at facebook.com /JuneteenthReadingPA. – NIKKI M. MURRY

Farm Fun at Swartz’s

Roadside Stand

The Mohnton spot is far more than its name implies. Make a day of visiting. Here’s just a taste of what’s offered…

1 . Baby Goat Yoga.

On select dates, yogis and animal lovers alike can sign up for Baby Goat Yoga with a certified instructor. Held outside in the goat pasture or inside the pole barn in the event of bad weather, classes run for an hour. Check the Facebook event page for more info and to sign up.

2. Sheep Walk.

Swartz’s is one of the first farms in Berks to offer sheep walks. For 30 minutes, walk a sheep while a farmer answers any questions you may have about the animal, or any others on the farm. Must be 12 years or older to walk a sheep on your own.

3. Rent a Chick.

Want to raise chickens but aren’t sure you want to commit long-term? Inquire about the Rent a Chick program. The plan provides all essential items a chick needs for its first two weeks of life. At that point, you can decide to return or keep the animal.

swartzroadsidestand.com

One More Thing

Head to the Avenue. Penn Avenue in West Reading, that is. On June 17 join in celebrating the 29 th Annual Art on the Avenue event from 11am to 7pm featuring the work of local and regional artists, crafters, vendors, musicians and West Reading businesses. For more info visit visitwestreading.com/ festivals-events/

9.

THREE CHEERS FOR Wine & Cheese

BY DENISE GREENWOOD | PHOTOS COURTESY SAY CHEESE! WINE AND CHEESE SHOP

If you know your gouda from your gorgonzola, you have a new reason to visit downtown West Reading. Say Cheese! Restaurant has expanded its operations to the building next door and has reopened its cheese shop in the new space. The original cheese shop, which shared space with the restaurant, was replaced by a bar after the pandemic shutdown in 2020, when Say Cheese! received a liquor license.

Open since October 2022, the new store is larger than the original shop and sells wine and other gourmet products in addition to cheese. The gutted and renovated space maintains interesting features of the original building, such as display alcoves that originally formed a breezeway between the two buildings that now house the restaurant and the shop. The store and restaurant spaces remain connected, creating an integrated dining and shopping experience for the cheese aficionado.

Say Cheese! Wine and Cheese Shop offers a vast selection of cheeses handpicked by owner Adam Cocuzza. Manager Melanie Pomerantz explains that the cheeses will be continuously updated based on customer interest, seasonality and local availability. The shop aims to be responsive to customer requests. For example, Say Cheese! recently returned coconut cheese, a vegan cheese made from coconut milk, to its shelves by popular demand. Pomerantz says, “I’m having a lot of fun researching and selecting the cheeses and wines, and I can vouch for everything in the store.”

Say Charcuterie

Say Cheese! also sells cheese and charcuterie boards and party trays. Exacting party planners can bring in their own boards and fill them with cheese to their specifications. Pomerantz says that the staff are happy to help customers select an array of cheeses and other accoutrements that complement one another. Say Cheese! sells a variety of high-end artisanal items to include on a cheeseboard, such as pickles, local honey, nuts, crackers, chocolates and drink mixers.

Wines Go Global

In addition to cheese, the new store offers an array of local and global wines not available at state liquor stores, including natural wines, biodynamic wines and de-alcoholized wines for the sober curious. De-alcoholized wines are made by removing the alcohol after fermentation,

meaning that the taste and feel of wine is maintained. Pomerantz recommends that diners at nearby Penn Avenue restaurants without liquor licenses stop by Say Cheese! to purchase a bottle of wine to have with dinner.

Customers who aren’t hungry can purchase cheese-related utensils, like cheeseboards and knives; books, like Cheese Sex Death: A Bible for the Cheese Obsessed by Erika Kubik; and novelty items, like cheese hats.

For more indecisive customers, Say Cheese! offers free samples of cheese at all times and will be hosting wine tastings on the third Thursday of every month from 5:30 to 8pm. Classes on wine pairings are announced on the Say Cheese! email list and linked on the Say Cheese! website (saycheese-restaurant. com). Regular customers can join the rewards program and accumulate points for discounts on future purchases.

Say Cheese! Restaurant & Cheese

600 Penn Avenue, West Reading 610.406.5390 | saycheese-restaurant.com saycheeserestaurant

FUN FACTS

During West Reading’s January

Ice and Spice Festival, Say Cheese! served raclette potatoes, which are potatoes covered with heated cheese.

All Natural.

Natural wine is made from handpicked grapes not sprayed with pesticides or herbicides, fermented with native yeast and finished with no additives.

Brian Adams

OWNER, THE ART ROOM, WEST READING

BY SARAH MATARELLA

PHOTO BY JOHN A. SECOGES, SECOGES PHOTOGRAPHICS

Brian Adams has been immersed in the art industry since he can remember, from being a part of the Rainbow Readers of Reading Theatre Group, to dressing public figures and collaborating with high-end brands as an executive personal shopper at Bloomingdales, to opening The Art Room on Penn Avenue.

Q:What do people gain from making art that they may not consider?

then this isn't the right path for you. You'll never have a perfect day, week or month. You constantly have to evolve to meet the needs and desires that the public and the customers want because it's not about what you want, but what the customers want in that time and place. You need to be very strong and have to be able to handle stress. You need to be resilient to those types of things.

Q: What do you do to unwind when you are not running your business?

I am a very big fan of my dog, Gigi. I don’t go anywhere without Gigi, whether it’s our wholesaler in Denver or to the grocery store. We go on walks every day, especially on my days off. We take advantage of the Wyomissing Park trails and love spending time outdoors. I am also very big on starting canned food drives. I recently did a food drive with the Hope Rescue Mission that fed over 1,200 individuals. The Grocery Outlet in Shillington donated more than 100 loaves of bread and I continue donating every few months once the box gets full.

Q: What is new or upand-coming for The Art Room this year?

Q:

What made you want to become an entrepreneur after finding your way back to your passion for painting, ceramics and other art media?

After I left Bloomingdales and had time to really think to myself and find who I am and what I want to do, especially at 35 years old when you’ve had jobs like I’ve had, I thought “where do you go from being an executive personal

shopper for Bloomingdales getting Gucci, Chanel and these brands because they needed me to wear it?” I dressed the Creed movie that came out in 2015, dressed Andy and Tammy Reid when they were with the Philadelphia Eagles…but when I moved back to the [West Reading] Borough, I felt that something was missing from the Avenue and that The Art Room was the missing puzzle piece to bring in a place where people can do an activity and also express themselves.

Everyone that comes in can see or make something that reminds them of their grandparents, their parents or a holiday. It’s important to bridge the gap between family, friends, memories and art. Say you paint a Christmas tree with your boyfriend or girlfriend; that is going to be the tree that you painted together that you put out every single year. It also helps stress, depression and anxiety. When you are focusing on painting or whatever medium you’re creating on at the moment, whether its pottery, ceramic, glass, etc., for that moment you lose yourself and truly focus on something other than what was on your mind before that. You are able to zone in on something for the first time in a while when you’re not constantly working, talking on the phone or scrolling on social media.

Q: What have you learned over the last year of being an entrepreneur?

It's a really big misconception that just because you open a business on Penn Avenue means you’ll be successful. You need to work hard, dedicate yourself, and if you are not willing to wait it out and go through trials and errors,

LEARN MORE

Engage with the Arts. Join The Art Room and many other local businesses on June 17 for the 29 th Annual Art on the Avenue.

We are working on converting the back garage into a pottery wheelhouse. We have a whole line of stepping stones to add gems, stones and beads to. We are also launching outdoor hanging decor, customized dinner dishes and kitchenware, tons of new planters and customizable light-up baseballs where people can add their teams on them. theartroomwestreading.com for more details.

Bring the Kids. Register your children for The Art Room’s second annual Art Summer Camp from June 12-Aug. 18. Visit theartroomwestreading. com

Brian Clark

PHOTOGRAPHER & PAINTER GUIDED BY QUIRKS, LIGHT & HISTORY

BY MARIAN FRANCES WOLBERS

“ I started doing photography as a teenager in high school, at Penncrest in Delaware County,” says photographer and painter Brian Clark, who now resides in downtown Reading. “There was a very good art class there which got me interested in art in general, and I started taking pictures on family vacations.”

Architecture and Historical Details

Clark’s eye focuses on buildings and structures, with details that are compelling presenting such familiar Reading scenes as the Pagoda, Gring’s Mill and bridges

arching over rivers and creeks in ways that feel compellingly fresh, all filled with subtle awe. “My pictures tend to not feature a lot of people as the main subject,” he says with a slight smile. “I like history. I like local quirks, things that look ‘different.’ And Reading was a very, very rich place at one time with a rich history. I like the parts you can still see. For example, the Pagoda. I’m drawn to it because it’s very different. It was one thing I wouldn’t have expected to see in the middle of Pennsylvania.”

Although there are many commercially gorgeous photos of the Pagoda, Clark’s photos come alive as his lens captures the Pagoda rising behind the

bare branches of a tree. The tones of blacks and whites, grays and photo-grays paint a beauty that is distinctly uncommercial and raw. One photo of the Pagoda, “Illumination,” features only part of the structure’s carefully sloping roof, as if to say: “Look! See how the light embraces this beautifully crafted artifact!”

“I Try to Do My Own Thing”

A candid person who chooses his words as carefully as he selects his images, Clark clearly values original expression. Put simply: “I try to do my own thing.” He adds that he will only photograph or paint something “as long as it seems to have something original about it.” Of his “Gring’s Mill Dam” photo, he points to the monotones and grays and the reflection of the water onto the concrete bridge. In his “Romantic View” piece (taken in Spain), two people become part of the architecture, “an outside view of a bench and a Spanish couple.”

Brian Clark is a thoughtful and commanding painter as well, whose medium is acrylics. The moody blue hues of his “Eye on the Eclipse” immediately call viewers to come closer. “I was going for something minimalist

and monochromatic at the same time,” Clark reveals. The paintings are not sharply focused like photos: they’re “abstract and free-flowing.” An eye at the lower corner shows pops of white, targeted on the eclipse above.

QUIRKS

Journeyman.

Clark loves traveling to Spain, France, Germany and Sri Lanka.

Past Endeavors. He once worked at the Courthouse in Delaware County.

Eye on the Eclipse

Illumination

Travel with GRCA & Fall in Love with France

RACHAEL ROMIG, SENIOR DIRECTOR OF EVENTS & SPECIAL PROGRAMS, GRCA

On Nov. 2, the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance (GRCA) will be flying with a group of avid travelers to a place where every dream can come true — France. This nine-day, seven-night trip will take you to Provence, a region in southeastern France bordering Italy and the Mediterranean Sea, which is known for its diverse landscapes, from the Southern Alps and Camargue plains to rolling vineyards, olive groves, pine forests and lavender fields. To the south is the Côte d’Azur (or French Riviera), where the elegant city of Nice and glamorous resort towns such as Monaco and Cannes line the coast.

As you enjoy the sunrays of early fall, think about walking over cobblestone streets with others who want to culturally immerse themselves in a faraway place. From the beauty of the French Riviera and Villages of Provence to storybook-like medieval villages and Roman ruins, the tours we will take show us that there is more than beauty that meets the eye. Learn from a professional guide about the people who once walked over the same streets and visit St. Remy de Provence where Vincent Van Gogh painted most of his famous works.

Are you looking for a new signature scent for your home? Lavender is always my go-to choice, and I can’t wait to visit the famous lavender museum. While you’re there, snag a new perfume for yourself or a friend. We will get an insider look at the Fragonard perfume factory so we can see what it really takes to make the scents we love so much. I will be taking a piece of France home with me in a lavender or perfume

bottle. And, speaking of bottles, of course we will be visiting the famous Côtes du Rhône wine region and enjoying a private group wine tasting.

For those not interested in perfumes but prefer clothes, we have that, too. Extend your visit with a stop in Milan, which is sure to offer a one-of-a-kind shopping experience. If you choose to spend your money differently, I’ll see you in Monte Carlo’s casino. There is a little bit of everything for everyone.

To join GRCA on this magical trip or for more details, visit tinyurl.com/chambertrip2023

Upcoming Event

Kick off the summer with Berks Women2Women on June 29 from 5:30 to 8pm for its annual Lobsterfest. Enjoy a night of casual networking, drinks and, of course, lobster! Visit greaterreading.org to purchase tickets.

West Reading Fashion Show.

BE SEEN!

Did you attend a fabulous event with friends or co-workers?

Share it with us! Email photos in the form of a jpeg file as well as captions to BCLeditor@BerksCountyLiving.com for consideration.

BONUS PHOTOS!

For more photos check out BerksCountyLiving.com/ b-scene-photos

Photos by Heidi Reuter 1. Mark Dougherty. 2. Emily Fitzpatrick Kenniston. 3. Ty Gardner & Samantha Kaag. 4. Debby Bloom. 5. Kathy Lavanga & Lisa Bowman. 6. Fran Wade-Whittaker. 7. Shauna Kring & Kelli Schulthess. 8. Candy Blessing & Jenny Pakradooni. 9. Robin & Dan Horman. 10. Kelly Storti & Kevin Kozo. 11. Sabrina Showers & Anna Brzostek. 12. MaryJo Kreutzer & Katherine Scheese. 13. Pamela Ertel & Cheryl Wozniak. 14. Kay Waack & Tina Shenk. 15. Alyssa & Kathy Heck.

WHAT TO DO & WHERE TO GO

A Pollinator’s Purpose

Visit a variety of information stations in and around the Native Plant Garden to learn how pollinators positively impact all our lives and what we can do to help them. This is a self-guided and ADA-accessible event. Free. For more info visit hawkmountain.org/ events/a-pollinators-purpose.

10am-2pm | Native Habitat Garden & Visitor Center at Hawk Mountain Sanctuary | Kempton

15-17

32 nd

Annual

KEMPTON FAIR

Featuring an assortment of contests, including baking, agriculture contests, a frog-jumping contest, rides, a Beer Garden, line dancing, fireworks and more. Admission: $10 per person. Early bird special 10am-3pm on Saturday: $5. Free parking. For more info visit kemptonfair.org

Various hours | Kempton Community Center | Kempton

13th Annual

Taste of Kutztown

On hand will be diverse regional wineries, distilleries, craft brewers, eateries, artisans and live musicians. Profits benefit the local community and international causes through Kutztown Rotary. For more info and tickets visit tasteofkutztown.com

11:30am-5:30pm | Kutztown Community Park | Kutztown

World War II Weekend

Prepare to step back into 1944 for “A Gathering of Warbirds.” Experiences include aircraft demonstrations, autographs and meetings with WWII Veteran special guests, an Oral History Van of the American Wartime Museum, a WWII History Archive and more than 1,700 WWII military and civilian reenactors and dozens of combat and support units. Rain or shine. For more info visit maam.org

Gates open at 8:30am daily Mid-Atlantic Air Museum Reading Regional Airport | Reading

2-4

COMPILED BY NIKKI M. MURRY

PHOTO COURTESY OF KEMPTON FAIR

PHOTO BY CONNOR OCHS

PHOTO BY CHRISTOPHER ELSTON PHOTOGRAPHY

ART EXHIBITS

May 27–Sept. 4

The Robot Zoo

Robot Zoo reveals the magic of nature as a master engineer. Eight robot animals and more than a dozen hands-on activities illustrate fascinating real-life characteristics, such as how a chameleon changes colors, a giant squid propels itself and a fly walks on the ceiling. The larger-than-life-size animated robots also include a housefly with a 10-foot wingspread, a grasshopper, a bat and a giraffe whose head and neck alone stretch to 9 feet tall. For more info visit readingpublicmuseum.org

Reading Public Museum | Reading

June 3

Hawk Mountain Arts Tour

Pick your own route, set your own pace, and enjoy a wide variety of pieces by artists displaying their work in their home studios or host locations. The self-guided driving tour winds about a 25-mile radius within the scenic Albany Township. For more info visit hawkmountain.org/events/ hawk-mountain-arts-tour.

9am-5pm | artists’ homes in Albany Township area

FAIRS & FESTIVALS

June 17

29th Annual Art on the Avenue

The free community event features West Reading businesses, local vendors, artists and crafters, live music and lots of fun foods and drinks. Rain or shine. For more info visit visitwestreading.com/festivals-events.

11am-7pm | Penn Avenue | West Reading

SPORTS

WHAT ELSE

June 11

Picture Perfect Gift Art Class

Participants will be shown how photographs can be transformed into various gift items. The class presented by photographer and author, Olapeju Simoyan, takes place at the Hamburg Strand Theater in the Party Room. Suitable for ages 10+. Deadline to register is June 8. To reserve a spot, contact Hamburg Area Arts Alliance/Our Town Foundation at 610.562.3106 or hamburgarts@verizon.net

Noon-2pm | Hamburg Strand Theater | Hamburg

June

6-11, 13-18 & 28-July 3

Reading Fightin Phils

Cheer on your Fightins as they start as they take on the Binghamton Rumble Ponies, Hartford Yard Goats and Richmond Flying Squirrels. For game times, promotions and tickets visit fightins.com.

Various start times

FirstEnergy Stadium | Reading

June 17

Grand Reopening of Epler’s One Room Schoolhouse

See how the schoolhouse was remodeled and go back in time to 1847. View old school desks, a potbelly stove and learn how children attended school in 1847. Light refreshments will be served. For more info call 610.507.2263.

1-4pm | Berks County

Heritage Center | Reading

10

BY HEATHER BAVER

Flip-flops are the quintessential summer shoe. This timeless footwear has been popular worldwide for thousands of years. In the US, flip-flops have been going strong since they started trending in the 1950s and 60s. Check out these amazing options to enhance your collection and celebrate these stylish, comfortable shoes.

1. I Island Vibes.

Go for a flip-flop that’s beach ready. A contoured footbed emulates the sensation of walking barefoot in wet sand. Water-resistant with quick drying straps and footbed, these are made for relaxing all day by the pool or ocean.

Olukai Ho’opio Hau in Black Pineapple, $75, Nature's Garden Natural Foods and Shoes

2. Summer Staple.

With their classic styling and neutral hue, you can wear these with every outfit, every day. The grooved sole provides plenty of traction in wet or dry conditions. Padded straps and a FEELIT footbed create an instantly comfy fit.

Dockers Freddy for Men, $49.99, sale $29.99, Boscov’s

#2

5. Sustainable Choice.

Support the environment in style. This Austrian brand prioritizes sustainability with footwear that’s crafted to last. Made of Nappa leather, these flip-flops are embellished with a colorful patterned fabric and side elastic to help them stay on comfortably and securely.

#3

3. Sparkling Straps.

Give your summer ensemble some extra shine. These airy flip-flops come in a wide range of colors, each one with coordinating glittery straps. The soles sport a cool basket weave texture to massage your feet while you’re on the go.

Ilse Jacobsen, $44, Charlotte Shoppe

4. Colorful Comfort.

Step out in style and reduce stress on your feet and joints. Made of impact-absorbing OOfoam™, these sandals are made for long walks in hot weather. A handpainted gradient of blue and turquoise on the straps adds a splash of color.

Oofos OOlala-Luxe in

#6

Leather Legend.

Add elegance and comfort to your flipflop collection. These sandals include Birkenstock’s iconic cork-latex footbed with a deep heel cup, raised toe bar and plenty of arch support. The soft leather upper features an adjustable buckle for

Birkenstock Gizeh in Soft White Leather, $130, Nature's Garden Natural Foods and Shoes

details. White faux leather flowers with silver centers give these straps a festive look. Pair them with all your warm weather dresses or a white tee and jeans for a look that’s sophisticated, yet laid back.

Capelli Flowered Flip-Flops, $26.99, sale $13.49, Boscov’s

9. Cushioned & Casual.

Kick back and relax. These showcase fun, leafy-patterned straps and a vibrant blue footbed. The soles contain memory foam for delightfully soft cushioning with every step. Wear them with jeans, shorts or a breezy skirt for cool, casual style.

Rocket Dog Spotlight in Blue Mayfield, $34.99, sale $24.99, Boscov’s

SOURCES

Boscov’s Locations in Exeter, Muhlenberg, Wyomissing boscovs.com | 610.779.2000

Charlotte Shoppe 4600 Penn Avenue, Sinking Spring 610.678.4800

charlotteshoppe.com

8. After-Workout Essential.

Pamper your feet after a long run or intense gym session. Cushy OOfoam™ gives your feet and joints a well-deserved rest by absorbing 37 percent more impact. Moisture and bacteria-resistant, these are machine washable for easy

Oofos Ooriginal Sandal for Men and Women, $60, Fleet Feet West Reading

#7 #10

Extra Chic.

For a stylish twist, go for a flip-flop with an extra strap. Choose neutral hues for a shoe that matches everything, or try fuchsia for vibrant color. The rubber sole offers plenty of traction that’s perfect for long summer strolls.

610.320.9097 fleetfeetwestreading.com

Nature's Garden Natural Foods and Shoes

4360 Perkiomen Avenue, Reading 610.779.3000

Pour It On

Consider yourself a wine or beer enthusiast? Then Berks is the place to be! With a wide assortment of craft breweries and awardwinning wineries, you’re sure to find a drink to kick back with and enjoy. Check out just a few on this page, visit them and see what makes each unique. Cheers!

Oakbrook Brewing

628 Park Avenue, Reading

484.755.5289 | oakbrookbrew.com

Let me tell you something brother, Oakbrook Brewing Company is the most powerful and delicious brewery in the world! Our brews are slammin’ and will have your taste buds begging for more! Prepare your flavor hole, because Oakbrook’s beer is gonna hit you like a freight train! We’ve got the brews that’ll make you say “oh yeah!” So, what you gonna do when OBC runs wild on you?!

Stony Run Winery

150 Independent Rd., Breinigsville 610.398.7231 | stonyrunwinery.com

Stony Run Winery brings award-winning, worldclass estate wine to Pennsylvania, using the highest quality grapes from Europe with 20+ varietals, from dry to sweet and everything in-between. We have state-of-the-art Italian equipment and technology that we pair with premier winemaking talent and world-class grapes grown on our land. We are the largest Estate Producer in Pennsylvania. Let us share our passion with you.

Sly Fox Taphouse AT THE KNITTING MILLS

820 Knitting Mills Dr., Wyomissing 484.878.2154 | slyfoxbeer.com

In June of 2019, Sly Fox Brewing Company opened the Taphouse in Wyomissing, where award-winning Sly Fox beer arrives fresh from the brewery and Pennsylvania wines and spirits are served alongside Sly Fox’s delicious fare in a casual, family-friendly atmosphere. Hosting an event? Our event venue, Eight-Twenty at the Mills, is the perfect space for any party. Cheers!

Saucony Creek Brewing Company

5032 Kutztown Rd., Kutztown

Franklin & Seventh Sts., Reading

sauconybeer.com

Saucony Creek Brewing Company explores the limits of brewing craft beer and preparing unique, flavorful cuisine at our pub locations in Kutztown and Reading. Whether you are quaffing a pint at our bar or enjoying a meal with a group of friends while chilling to our weekend live music, you’ll have a great experience. We look forward to serving you!

5 Fun Ice Cream Flavors

BY HEATHER BAVER

Summer was made for ice cream, and there’s no better way to enjoy this delicious treat than by going out to eat it. While you’re scanning all the options, get adventurous and try something new. Check out these fun flavors and savor the cool atmosphere of local ice cream hotspots.

3

Feel the Heat.

Celebrate your love of all things spicy. Candy’s adds real jalapeños into their homemade vanilla ice cream to create a flavor that’ll make your taste buds tingle. Enjoy this refreshing combo of sweet and heat as a scoop, milkshake or in a sundae topped with whipped cream and a cherry.

Jalape ñ o Ice Cream price varies by item

Candy’s Homemade

Ice Cream

1085 Pottsville Pike

Shoemakersville

610.562.1620

CandyHomemadeIceCream

Blueberry Bliss.

Berries are one of summer’s delights, and they’re even better in dessert. Made by Penn State Berkey Creamery, Alumni Swirl combines vanilla ice cream with sweet, tangy blueberry swirl and Swiss Mocha chips for a burst of chocolate-coffee goodness. Keep the fun going and take home a pint to share.

Alumni Swirl Ice Cream

scoop: $4.25

chocolate covered waffle cone: $5.75, pint: $10

Great American Creamery 645 Penn St., Ste. H Reading | 484.525.0404 greatamericancreamery.com

Home Run.

Taste old-school deliciousness at a nostalgic ice cream parlor. Graham Slam is a delectable blend of graham cracker flavored ice cream with ribbons of graham and chocolate-covered pieces. Homemade and hand-dipped by Sweet Ride, you can relish every spoonful in a chocolate-dipped waffle bowl decked out in colorful sprinkles.

Graham Slam Ice Cream medium (pictured): $5.75 sprinkle waffle bowl: $2 Sweet Ride Ice Cream 542 Penn Avenue West Reading | 484.987.7338 sweetrideicecream.com

Magical Mixture.

Treat yourself to the flavor of your dreams. Unicorn is a sweet, tasty combo of vanilla ice cream mixed with rainbow sprinkles, icing and graham cracker pieces. Savor it with a magic color-changing spoon at Pop’s festive 1950s-style malt shoppe. Sip it in a milkshake, or add your favorite sundae topping.

Unicorn Ice Cream

$3.25 for kid’s scoop

$6.25 for large (4 scoops)

Pop’s Malt Shoppe

208 W. Main St., Kutztown 484.646.9509 popsmaltshoppe.com

Tasty Tribute.

Experience a classic Tastykake treat reimagined. Made with Scoupe deVille’s own super premium, extra creamy vanilla ice cream, Peanut Butter Tandy Cake is hand spun with a peanut butter swirl, fresh cake pieces and Gertrude Hawk Dark Chocolate Bits. Have your cake and ice cream, too, in this amazing flavor.

Peanut Butter Tandy Cake Ice Cream

$5.50 for a single scoop Scoupe deVille 3365 Main St., Birdsboro 610.582.5259 scoupedeville.com

Enter online at berkscountyliving.com for your chance to win one of these prizes: a $50 gift card to Great American Creamery, a $20 gift card to Sweet Ride Ice Cream or a $25 gift card to Soupe deVille. Good luck!

Standout Men Leading Berks Businesses

Berks County has no shortage of men leading successful businesses. More than just providing a service or product, they work to inspire others they work and interact with on a daily basis. In our annual Men In Business section on the following pages, we aim to help you get to know a few of them just a bit better. From fields including insurance, real estate, landscaping, phone operations, Internet technology and dental, senior and nonprofit services, we hope to help you to connect with one of these local noted professionals.

Dr. Dennis Mauro ROG Orthodontics

A commitment to excellence and unparalleled results is the driving force behind Dr. Dennis Mauro and the team at ROG Orthodontics. ROG is proud of their longstanding reputation as leaders in local orthodontics.

As the only Circle of Excellence Incognito® provider in Pennsylvania, top users of Damon® braces and a top Invisalign® provider, Dr. Mauro knows that aesthetic options such as braces on the inside of the teeth and clear aligner therapy are crucial to satisfying today’s savvy, informed patients desiring FANTASTIC smiles.

ROG is committed to underserved children in our community. ROG’s Project Fantastic Smiles Program serves disadvantaged youth through scholarships for free braces every month. The doctors and team of ROG Orthodontics also maintain an active relationship with many nonprofits in Berks.

Wyomissing, Pottstown & Douglassville

610.374.4097

fantasticsmiles.com

Brian Cuccaro, Brad Stephenson & Dan Marshall

Co-Owners | New Castle Lawn & Landscape

The New Castle team is led by co-owners Brian Cuccaro, one of New Castle’s founders, Brad Stephenson, a graduate of Berks Career & Technology Center, and Dan Marshall, a member of New Castle since 2009 following his service in the US Air Force.

Brian meets with HOA clients, attends community board meetings and spearheads the company inclusivity initiative promoting a bilingual culture. Brad oversees and develops the tight-knit family culture at New Castle. As the VP of Operations, Dan directs and coordinates all operational activities pertaining to New Castle.

New Castle ownership believes that building a great team involves giving people the power to make decisions instead of providing them with the answer.

Because of their team, in 2022 New Castle was named one of Reading’s Top 50 Businesses by the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance, earning the Reading Eagle Readers’ Choice Award for Best Lawn Care and Best Landscaping, and the title of Best Lawn & Landscape Company to Work For in the US by Lawn & Landscape Magazine

Beyond helping customers to achieve the beautiful properties of their dreams, New Castle is big on giving back to local nonprofits.

The business provides a full range of high-end landscape design and build services, as well as ongoing care and maintenance programs for lawns and landscapes. Learn more at newcastle94.com, call 610.796.7818 or visit them on social media!

3 East Point Dr., Birdsboro

610.796.7818

newcastle94.com

Left to right: Dan Marshall, Brian Cuccaro and Brad Stephenson

Kevin DeAcosta

President & CEO

The Highlands at Wyomissing ®

On March 28, 2023, The Highlands at Wyomissing broke ground on The Vistas at Fox Hill, a new, innovative community for adults 62 years and older to age in place with modern conveniences. The first of its kind in the region, The Vistas at Fox Hill hybrid model addresses the preferences and active lifestyles of a new generation of older adults, while providing a strong sense of connection and independence.

Slated to open in 2024, The Vistas at Fox Hill will include 41 modern-designed luxury residences, spacious common areas teeming with natural light and beautiful views, indoor parking and spectacular rooftop spaces for dining and socializing. Residents will also have access to resort-quality amenities including a dog grooming station, robust programming and cultural enrichment, and quality healthcare services. The Vistas at Fox Hill was designed by RLPS Architects and is being built by Benchmark Construction.

“It is our mission to provide remarkable living experiences for residents and evolve our offerings to promote independence, engagement and wellness for seniors in our region,” says Kevin DeAcosta, president and CEO of The Highlands at Wyomissing. “According to a feasibility study we conducted in 2021, there is a growing need for housing in our region as the senior population is projected to continue to grow by nearly 15 percent through 2026. The Vistas at Fox Hill is another example of how we are fulfilling a real need in our market.”

A few future residents of The Vistas at Fox Hill were on-site at the groundbreaking ceremony to help plant PA Redwoods to adorn the new property.

DeAcosta adds, “Trees symbolize life, growth, strength and interconnection, so we thought it would be fitting to plant trees in honor of this milestone. The Highlands at Wyomissing is more than just a retirement community — we are a vibrant Continuing Care Retirement Community that offers an all-inclusive lifestyle that prioritizes safety, growth, independence, security and comfort for all our residents and future residents.”

Michael J. Sirak, CIC Owner | MGS Insurance Agency, LLC

When do you need an agent like Mike Sirak with MGS Insurance Agency?

To put it simply: before and after something goes wrong. MGS gets it right from the start and takes care of you in your time of need. Whether it is for car, home, life, health or your business insurance, we get it right and help you through it all. As testament, the average insurance agency retains 85 percent of its business from year to year. We, in our 44 years of existence, have retained 93 percent or more of our clients year after year. THAT’s how good we are at taking care of our clients. Give us a try.

606 Museum Rd., Reading 610.375.6142 mgsinsurance.com

Chris Montgomery

Bill Moser

REALTOR ®

Century 21 Gold

Bill Moser, a REALTOR® with CENTURY 21 Gold licensed in 2008, is a graduate of Wyomissing High School and has a BS degree in Civil Engineering from Lehigh University. Bill worked as an environmental engineer for five years before dedicating himself to a career in real estate. Bill comes from a real estate family. His mother, Lisa Tiger, is a REALTOR® with CENTURY 21 Gold, and his dad, John Herman, is the owner of CENTURY 21 Gold and is a principal in NAI Keystone Commercial & Industrial. His knowledge in residential real estate has given him exceptional experience in working with buyers and sellers. He offers a high level of service, personal dedication and is committed to his clients’ goals. Bill and his wife Ashley reside in Wyomissing with their son Paxton (2 years old), daughter Kennedy (newborn) and black lab Piper.”

Direct: 610.207.5686

Office: 610.779.2500, ext. 8429 bmoser@c21gold.com c21gold.com

Owner & President | Chester Perfetto Agency & TravelSafe Insurance

Chris Montgomery is thrilled to have acquired the Chester Perfetto Agency and TravelSafe Insurance and that he now has a chance to be more involved in Berks County activities.

The acquisition happened just a year ago as the company celebrated 51 years in business, all of which were operated from its headquarters in Wyomissing. Representatives work nationwide.

Chris brings more than 30 years of management, consulting and business ownership experience in multiple industries. He looks to continue the excellent record of success for the Pennsylvania agency and its nationwide travel insurance business, recognized as one of the leaders in the travel industry.

With the excellent services that have been recognized by customers over many years, he intends to keep operations as-is. His philosophy is, “if it’s not broke don’t fix it!” Over the past year, Chris has been traveling and meeting the many customers and partners of the Chester Perfetto Agency and TravelSafe Insurance.

When Chris is not at one of his many offices, he enjoys watching the Kansas City Chiefs or Royals (as Kansas native), along with playing golf or fishing. He also loves working in the garden with his wife!

If you are in the area, it would certainly be worth stopping by the office on Commerce Drive to meet with Chris and his team and to see firsthand the commitment to excellence that continues to drive the company forward.

40 Commerce Dr., Wyomissing | 275 Glenlivet Dr., Allentown

610.678.0373 | perfettoinsurance.com

Ryan Smith

Founding President & CEO Inperium, Inc.

John Loyack

Executive VP & COO Inperium, Inc.

Ryan Smith founded Inperium, Inc., to support and oversee affiliated companies to ensure quality services, continuity of care and efficient use of public funding and resources. Inperium provides person-centric mental health, intellectual disability, co-occurring disorders services, healthrelated supports and other related services. Ryan’s 30+ years of experience in the human services field and business development has allowed him to gain significant success for the communities served by Inperium as well as those employed by these affiliates. Inperium has seen a robust expansion in services, financial diversity and strength, and affiliations that leverage resources to achieve quality results.

Mike Herr

Executive VP & Chief Insurance and Risk Officer Inperium, Inc.

With more than 30 years of diverse experience and a proven track record in the insurance industry, Mike Herr has been able to mitigate risk across Inperium’s constellation, and also assist in finding cost effective insurance and benefit solutions for all of Inperium’s affiliates in an effort to ensure the affiliates experience savings as they continue to grow their business and support their mission.

As the Chief Operations Officer, John Loyack brings a variety of business acumen and exceptional leadership. His span of control includes Apis Services, all fiscal oversight within Inperium’s constellation, treasury and banking relationships, new deal/affiliation prospecting and integration. John and his team’s priorities include the oversight of initiatives to take the organization into the future, that include, but not limited to driving affiliate operational efficiency, program effectiveness, business process scalability, new affiliate integration success and overall financial performance.

Tom Papa CEO Apis Services

Tom has been an innovative leader in the Health & Human Services field for 25+ years. As CEO of Apis Services, he directs the shared service platform offered by Apis, supports the Executive leadership in the deployment and integration of the shared services, and ensures that Apis Services is routinely pursuing its mission, vision and values, namely providing unparalleled customer care to the affiliated entities.

Troy M. Kantner

Founder, President & CEO Solve IT Solutions, LLC

Drew Ritter

Owner & President Advantage TeleMessaging, Inc.

Troy Kantner is proud of the hard work it took to bring Solve IT Solutions, LLC from a solo project he ran out of his home’s basement to a $4 million business. Growing to its current staff of 22 in Wyomissing, services include “Level Up Managed Services,” Co-Managed Services, Cyber Security, Business Recovery Services, Data Center Offerings, Complete IT Network Assessment & Security, Networking Solutions, Microsoft 365 Cloud Solutions, and more. And it all happened by way of referrals. Asserts Kantner, “What really sets us apart is the fact that we haven’t lost a client in the past 22 years we have been in business due to our negligence. This says a lot about who we are and shows we don’t just talk about having tight partnerships with our clients, we live it!”

501 N. Park Rd., Wyomissing 484.331.1083 solve-it-sol.com

troyk@solve-it-sol.com

Matt Wolf & Sam Padovani

Buying and selling real estate can be one of the most important financial decisions you make. Thankfully, there are agents like Matt Wolf and Sam Padovani with the experience to navigate you through these sometimeschallenging transactions. From the moment you meet Matt and Sam, you will realize you are in good hands. As lifelong residents of Berks County, their passion for the real estate business is matched by their in-depth and vast transactional experience as they pride themselves on staying ahead of the curve in an industry that is continuously changing.

The Matt Wolf Team at RE/MAX of Reading consistently ranks among the top-producing real estate teams in Berks County and the entire country having helped thousands of clients with their real estate needs. In 2022 alone, this powerhouse team helped more than 120 clients with buying and selling real estate for a total of more than $42 million in sales.

Contact us to discuss our systemized marketing plan, team sales approach and no-risk listing contract that has produced superior results for our clients.

Advantage TeleMessaging, Inc., is a multi-award-winning, international answering service based in West Reading, representing nearly 700 clients throughout the United States and Canada.

Drew Ritter, Owner/President, started working as an agent on the phones in 1994 when his mother started the company. When she was ready to retire, Drew acquired Advantage TeleMessaging, Inc. in 2008, during the recession, and drastically re-envisioned his company’s future in order to re-shape what people think of answering services and contact centers.

Drew Ritter applied this strategy once again as COVID-19 affected some of his own clients. In uncertain times, Advantage TeleMessaging, Inc., continues to grow. The business answers all of its clients’ phones, pushes the envelope of technology, and continues to create job opportunities both locally and across the country.

529 Reading Avenue, Ste. I West Reading | 610.372.5551 advantagetelemessaging.com

Matt

Sam

Matt Wolf and Sam Padovani

SIP SAVOR Foodie findsto &

BY ROBYN L. JONES & NIKKI M. MURRY

TheBrick HousePub

When you think of Berks, you just might think of food – and drinks! After all, there’s no shortage of spots to stop and enjoy a fabulous cocktail, delicious small bite, an amazing entrée or a decadent dessert. We’ve rounded up 20 IDEAS for you to get on your “must-try” list.

BLOODY MARY

What started as 6-ounce Bloody Mary flights, featuring flavors including Triple X Hot, Horsey Hot, Tequila Maria and Dill Pickle, Bloody Mary has evolved to see the offering of full 16-ounce options that can be ordered loaded or not. All come with celery, bacon, shrimp and steak. The loaded options see

the addition of a cluster of King Crab Claws and bacon-wrapped scallops on the Seafood Frenzy version, or a full Monte Cristo Sandwich on the appropriately named Monte Cristo Bloody Mary. Bartender Rayna can customize creations to your liking. She prefers to add a cheeseburger slider and 6-ounce lobster tail.

Photo by Rayna Salvatori

COCKTAIL Kick it off with a

Fork&Ale

THE HYDE PARK

Revivalist Botanic Gin is infused with Butterfly Pea Tea and Blanc Vermouth to create a cocktail meant to represent the community Craft 2700 is proud to be a part of and to serve. It serves up diverse and bold flavors but is still a perfect evening drink to sip casually. Pair it with the Salmon New Orleans topped with a tangy beurre blanc sauce.

Craft 2700 at Freymoyer’s 2700 Kutztown Rd., Muhlenberg Township 610.463.3233 | craft2700.com

THE GARDEN PARTY

Lavender flower infused Stateside Vodka from nearby Philadelphia, citrus juices, elderflower and hibiscus syrup, egg white, rosewater and hopped grapefruit bitters come together in a refreshing spring/ summer cocktail. There’s nothing artificial in this one! Fork & Ale infuses spirits with fresh or high-quality dried ingredients, squeezes their own cocktail juices and makes their own syrups and bitters.

Fork & Ale | 1281 E. Main St. Douglassville | 610.953.3675

forkandale.com

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THE BRIDGE INN-TINI

Feel like you’re in South Beach, but don’t leave the boundaries of Berks when you sip this cocktail with Sapphire gin, muddled red bell pepper and mint, lime juice and a few secret ingredients, of course. Sound unusual? Trust fans; it’s good! It pairs perfectly with the Inn’s Blackened Seared Ahi Tuna.

The Bridge Inn Pleasantville 3 Covered Bridge Rd., Oley | 610.689.5818 bridgeinnpleasantville.com

Brunch Coffee Flight

Each flight features four distinct flavors that can change based on the season, holidays and other events. Think pistachio ice cream, gingerbread, chocolatecovered pretzel and the like. Created by server and bartender Giovanna, she asserts, “Everybody loves coffee and alcohol, so let’s put it together.”

Offered Sundays from 11am to 4pm.

Ganly’s Irish Pub & Restaurant 500 Brownsville Rd., Sinking Spring 610.678.2000 | ganlysirishpub.com

SMALL BITES Scrumptious

B2 BANG BANG SHRIMP

Like your shrimp with a bit of a kick? Order these. Lightly fried shrimp are seasoned with sesame seeds and served with a side of pineapple ponzu sauce sure to tickle your tastebuds. For those looking for a perfect trio, try pairing it with a salmon entrée and one of their delectable desserts. The outside garden patio is the perfect spot to enjoy it all this summer.

B2 Bistro + Bar | 701 Reading Avenue, West Reading 610.898.4315 | b2bistro.com/west-reading

B2Bistro+Bar

SWEET POTATO SOUP

MARYLAND TOTS

Indulge the kid in you – or your kid – and order a basket of these Tater Tots tossed in Old Bay seasoning and topped with Cheddar cheese sauce and lump crab meat. The app has been a time-tested Railroad House favorite for 15 years. Don’t forget to share and save room for a perfectly paired cheesesteak.

Jimmy G’s Railroad House

152 Woodrow Avenue, Sinking Spring

SWEET THAI CHILI BITES

Crisped to perfection and tossed in an exquisite, gluten-free sweet Thai chili sauce, then nestled on a bed of fresh spring mix, these tofu bites stand apart from others because of their simple vegan preparation.

BONUS: they’re a healthy alternative to traditional pub favorites. Try these with Saucony’s kimchi bowl and your favorite brew.

Saucony Creek Kutztown Brewery + Pub 15032 Kutztown Rd., Kutztown 610.683.3128 | sauconybeer.com

The light but hearty puree of sweet potatoes and cream with hints of white wine and cinnamon is a crowd favorite. Dans adds spiced Granny Smith apples for tartness, a dollop of homemade cream with nutmeg and cinnamon for sweetness, and sunflower seeds and thyme for earthy and floral notes. A nod to Berks comes from a touch of crushed pretzels. Dans at Green Hills 2444 Morgantown Rd. Reading | 610.777.9611

dansatgreenhills.com

Cheese & Charcuterie Plate

It’s the perfect shareable app for cheese fans. This one features an assortment of cheeses and charcuterie, cornichons, pickled red onion, mixed nuts, dried fruit, toasted almond honey, baguette croutes and fennel seed crackers. Vegetarian options are also available.

Say Cheese! Restaurant & Cheese 600 Penn Avenue, West Reading 610.406.5390 | saycheese-restaurant.com

Enticing

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HENHOUSE BRUNCH ENTREE

A longtime customer favorite, you can’t go wrong with the tender roasted herb brined chicken atop of a butter-crisped savory cheddar waffle paired with more crispiness in the form of confit potatoes with sweet pea sprouts, finished with a fresh farm egg, a drizzle of hot chili honey and house frim fram sauce.

The Barley Mow Craft Beer House | 719 Penn Avenue, West Reading | 484.926.2094 | barleymowbeer.com

>DO THE DUCK

Here, Duck is always in season. The preparation is based on the freshest and finest ingredients available at the time to craft an inspired dish. Savory Grille’s duck is sourced from Joe Jurgielewicz & Son, Ltd., known to serve America’s Tastiest Duck. For wine lovers, consider a Duck and pinot noir pairing. Both offer moderate intensity, with pinot noir's acidity balancing out the fattiness of duck. Since duck often cooks well with fruit, the fruity notes in pinot couldn't be a more perfect match.

Savory Grille | 2934 Seisholtzville Rd. Macungie | 610.845.2010 | savorygrille.com

FRIED CHICKEN

What makes this fried chicken special? It’s fresh and they keep things simple – no fancy dips, no frilly flours. Fresh, never frozen, chicken pairs with flour and spices you can find in your own pantry at home. Moist and juicy, it’s cooked up right in front of customers’ eyes. Pair it with the homemade from scratch garlic mashed potatoes and gravy and add a trip to the bountiful salad and dessert bar. Don’t forget the donuts!

Wyomissing Restaurant and Bakery | 1245 Penn Avenue, Wyomissing 610.373.3353 | wyomissingrestaurantandbakery.com

GRIND SIGNATURE U-10 SCALLOPS

Fresh ingredients are used to highlight the true star of the dish – the fresh wild caught 100 percent chemical-free dry U-10 scallops! Regarded as the “candy of the sea” due to their natural sweetness, Grind complements them with a fine herb cream corn. It’s all topped off with crispy prosciutto for a texture sensation sure to please and that sweet-and-salty combo. Get ready to be a member of the clean plate club when you order this one.

Grind Restaurant | 45 S. Reading Avenue

Boyertown | 484.415.9318 | grindrestaurant.com

Extra Large Pizza>

When they say extra-large, they mean it. Inspired by pizzas cooked up on the Jersey Shores, the owner, who worked there at one time, thought, “Why not here in Oley?” Many love Bella Italia’s giant slices and many 28-inch Napolitana pies are purchased for parties, birthdays and get-togethers. Also popular is the lunch special featuring two giant slices and a medium soda. The dough is made fresh, covered in Bella Italia’s homemade pizza sauce, topped with real mozzarella cheese and baked to perfection. Sounds like a great grab to us!

Bella Italia Pizza Restaurant 1064 Memorial Hwy., Oley 610.987.6040 | bellaitaliaoley.com

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SALTED CARAMEL GUINNESS FLOAT

The boozy dessert doubles as a cocktail and is celebrated for its deliciousness and uniqueness. It’s the perfect finish to any entrée.

Trooper Thorn’s Irish Beef House 451 Morgantown Rd., Reading 610.685.4944 theirishbeefhouse

MRS. WESNER’S COCONUT CAKE

THE CHOCOLATE BAG

An actual bag of goodies formed by melting a mixture of semi-sweet and dark chocolate and painting it to the inside of a waxed bag, making the shell itself is a three-day process. Inside is a sweet cream filling and fresh fruit in a simple syrup. You’ll be wowed when it’s delivered to your table.

Coastal Grille | 2713 N. Meridian Blvd. Wyomissing | 610.743.4006 | coastalgrille.com

A family recipe handed down to owner Judy Henry’s family by an elderly neighbor, Carrie Wesner, the moist, buttery cake is best enjoyed on a hot day when the icing is so warm it’s almost dripping. A customer favorite, it pairs perfectly with a glass of sparkling wine like a Spanish Cava or Champagne. Cheers!

Judy’s on Cherry | 30 S. 4th St., Reading 610.374.8511 | judysoncherry.com

ICE CREAM PIE

FolinoEstate Winery

TIRAMISU

Made entirely in house with locally sourced ingredients, don’t pass up a slice of this pie featuring broken frozen chocolate folded into vanilla ice cream and placed inside a crushed pretzel crust. Fabulously sweet and salty, it’s a one-of-a-kind dessert available as a single portion, or you can purchase a whole pie. In 2024, you can order it to celebrate the Peanut Bar’s 100th anniversary!

Jimmie Kramer’s Peanut Bar Restaurant 332 Penn St., Reading 610.376.8500 | peanutbar.com

A crowd favorite for a reason, the creamy texture of this decadent Italian dessert pairs perfectly with a hint of coffee and cocoa powder, and will have you eating every last bite. Pair it with a glass of Folino’s Chambourcin wine for the ultimate sweet treat.

Folino Estate Winery | 340 Old Route 22, Kutztown 484.452.3633 | folinoestate.com

THE WONDERS OF BERKS COUNTY

It’s hard to narrow it down to seven, as Berks County is unique and wonderful in so many ways, but we polled residents and our social media friends on what they view as being the 7 Wonders of Berks County, and these are the spots that stood out…

BY NIKKI M. MURRY

THE PAGODA

No surprise here, the unique building that sits atop Mount Penn and overlooks the City of Reading tops the list. Standing for more than a century, a visit to the Pagoda offers panoramic views spanning 30 miles.

readingpagoda.com

* FUN FACT *

According to the Foundation for the Reading Pagoda, the structure is anchored to the mountainside with 16 tons of bolts, and the setting is known throughout the world.

GRING’S MILL’S RED

COVERED BRIDGE

Formerly named Wertz’s Covered Bridge, the historic wooden covered bridge stretches from Bern Township to Spring Township, spanning 204 feet crossing the Tulpehocken Creek. The structure serves as a walkway entrance to the Berks County Heritage Center, home to the Gruber Wagon Works. It is one of the few remaining covered bridges in the county and is on the National Register of Historic Places, having been added in 1978. The bridge also acts as a connector to the Union Canal Bicycle and Walking Trail, and the Red Bridge Recreation Area is home to a picnic pavilion and badminton court.

countyofberks.com/departments/parks-and-recreation

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CRYSTAL CAVE

The milky white formations found in this piece of natural history have thrilled visitors for more than 145 years. Plan a visit to the site near Kutztown and take in a one-hour tour where guides will lead you 125 feet underground showing off and explaining all nature has created around you. Bring a light sweater or jacket (and comfortable walking shoes), as the cave temperature holds steady at 54 degrees. Unable to visit in person? You can enjoy a virtual tour online.

crystalcavepa.com

HAWK MOUNTAIN SANCTUARY

The Kempton spot is regarded for its work in global raptor conservation and is the world’s first refuge for birds of prey. The Sanctuary’s Autumn Migration Hawk Count is the longest-running raptor migration count in the world. It started in 1934 when founder Rosalie Edge hired a curator named Maurice Broun and he started meticulously keeping track of passing migrants. The count runs from Aug. 15 to Dec. 15 each year and sees Sanctuary staff, trainees and volunteers stationed at lookouts to help visitors spot and identify hawks, eagles, falcons and vultures.

hawkmountain.org

RAILROAD HISTORY

Play Monopoly? If so, you know the Reading Railroad is a significant marker on the game board. Those looking to lean into learning more about the railroad’s history should head to Hamburg for a visit to the Reading Railroad Heritage Museum, run by the Reading Company Technical & Historical Society. There you’ll discover a collection of old train cars and memorabilia. Start with the introductory 15-minute film as it serves as a great background to what you’ll see on site, including a recreated 1930 station agent’s office.

readingrailroad.org

DID YOU KNOW? Berks County is also home to 11 Underground Railroad sites, one of them located on the lower level of Old Bethel A.M.E. Church in Reading, which is preserved by the Central Pennsylvania African American Museum (cpaam.net).

MID-ATLANTIC AIR MUSEUM

Home to the popular World War II Weekend each June (this year June 2-4), the Mid-Atlantic Air Museum is a staple on the grounds of the Reading Regional Airport in Bern Township. It’s host to a collection that emphasizes the Mid-Atlantic region’s unique contribution to flight, but is also broad enough to chronicle a general history of aviation, including military aviation. It is open Monday through Thursday and on Saturdays for tours (allow an hour), closed on major holidays, and offers annual memberships. Virtual tours are available online.

maam.org

BLUE MARSH LAKE RECREATION AREA

A mainstay in temperate weather months, Blue Marsh Lake is a man-made project constructed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in 1978. The recreation program on site is said to attract nearly 900,000 visitors annually. What can they do? Think: boating, fishing, picnicking, trail hiking, biking and horseback riding. There is no charge to enter and enjoy the area.

nap.usace.army.mil/Missions/Civil-Works/Blue-Marsh-Lake/

* FUN FACT *

The dam is a popular fishing area, but was constructed for flood risk management for the Reading, Birdsboro and Pottstown areas. The control tower at the dam is said to have prevented more than $56 million in flood damages.

Formerly the Main Street Inn, the late 19thcentury structure in the heart of the bustling college borough is undergoing yet another metamorphosis under the creative guidance of Andrea Folino, a principal of the growing Folino Estate enterprises. Andrea and her husband Marco are the entrepreneurial couple behind what, in less than a decade, has become the fabled Folino Estate Vineyard and Winery in the rolling countryside of northern Berks.

The estate and winery – the first vines weren’t planted until 2014 and now the vineyard has grown to include over 23,544 vines and spans some 14 acres of the property has become a popular dining, wine tasting and event destination. The ridge of the Blue Mountains provides a beautiful backdrop for their 54-acre venue along Old Route 22 near the Lehigh County line, which includes the main building with a tasting lounge, restaurant, bottle shop and terrace overlooking the

B ed & B reakfast in Kutztown Transforms into I nn Vintner’s

vineyard. There’s even a family-friendly ice skating rink (with synthetic ice!) that’s proven very popular in the winter months. In the offing, but likely three years from reality, is an on-site boutique hotel.

The Time Had Come

To offset that delay, the opportunity to acquire the venerable Main Street Inn surfaced in the early months of 2022.

“The property had been for sale for a few years, and we had been approached by the prior owners in the past, but we just weren’t ready at that point,” Andrea says.

However, in May 2022, the deal was sealed, and the Folinos became the owners of the property, which they promptly renamed the Vintner’s Inn.

“We were getting so many guests at the Folino Estate who wanted lodging,” she says, “and this was a perfect opportunity just down the road.”

BY DONNA REED

PHOTOS BY JOHN A. SECOGES, SECOGES PHOTOGRAPHICS

The Vintner’s Inn building was constructed in 1865, Andrea says, adding that complete renovations of the property in 2007 expanded the structure’s footprint and living areas.

There are now eight bedrooms, a common area and a covered courtyard perfect for gatherings of up to 30 people.

“We really believe this complements the estate usage,” she says.

The branding of Folino Estate links its Vintner’s Table in Phoenixville and its soonto-open counterpart in Wyomissing to the Vintner’s Inn itself.

A No d to the Vineyard

Upon entering the inn, a huge vase with dried vines from the vineyard greets guests. The common area has been redecorated with a nod to the Folinos’ heritage and vineyard.

“We bring old-world Italy in with touches of wine and grape motifs,” Andrea says.

“For example, we use grapevine pull-backs for the curtains.”

At press time, only one of the eight lodging rooms has been redone, but all are scheduled for facelifts as is the exterior of the inn.

“We are in the process of re-doing each room, updating for more of a signature estate look,” she says. “We’re going for a more neutral color palate, employing lots of greens, whites and tans.”

Though most of the already welcoming rooms await refreshing, each one has been christened with a new name reflecting the new ownership and branding.

Have a favorite wine? Maybe that’s the room to book. The choices:

The Barbera is a more business-oriented room with private access, a business desk and a king-sized bed.

The Cabernet, on the third floor, boasts two fireplaces, one in the bedroom and one in the bathroom which features a clawfoot tub.

The Chardonnay, light-filled and overlooking Main Street, also provides a reading nook.

The Chianti, located in the quieter rear of the inn, is larger than many of the other rooms. It’s accessible from a private back door and features a balcony and king-sized bed.

The Merlot, on the second floor, also overlooks Main Street and features a queensized bed and clawfoot tub.

The Moscato, on the ground floor off the lobby, is ADA compliant with a lower-profile queensized bed, a roll-in shower with utility bars and other helpful assists. It also overlooks the courtyard area.

The Pinot, on the second floor with a separate entry off the balcony, also features a kingsized bed and clawfoot tub.

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The B arbera

Special Offerings

For guests wanting to savor more than lodgings named for a wine varietal, the Vintner’s Inn offers treats from its Folino Estate vineyards.

A complimentary glass of wine is offered to each lodger during normal check-in hours.

In addition, at 3pm each day, another complimentary glass of wine and a gourmet cheese board is provided.

First thing in the morning may well be too early for wine, but it’s perfect for the inn’s complimentary European breakfast, which, Andrea notes, pays especial homage to the family’s Italian roots.

Guests can mosey on down to the common area and indulge in baked croissants, sweet pastries, fresh fruits, muffins, as well as cheese and prosciutto. She notes a favorite of those pastries is a

grape cake, the recipe of which is pulled from Italian tradition. It is a “harvest” cake made with fresh grapes, olive oil and orange zest, as well as almonds and possibly a hint of thyme.

While coffee is the standard wake-up beverage for most, a cappuccino offers the same or stronger caffeine kick and is more complementary to that Italianinspired breakfast.

For those guests savoring their privacy and wanting more, the inn staff delivers an enticing Folinosignature picnic basket to their door.

An on-site library and gift shop provide opportunities to purchase souvenirs or a good book. Lodgers can get to know each other a bit in the café area to perhaps tackle a game of chess or a challenging jigsaw puzzle.

Pathways and Parties

Guests – during their stays –also receive complimentary wine tastings at the estate, just 10 minutes down the road.

For those wanting to explore the historic borough of Kutztown and its surrounds, the inn also provides complimentary bike rentals.

The estate’s very navigable and attractive website also offers a full listing of local attractions and events to aid guests in exploring the area.

“I think sometimes we forget what is in our own backyard,” says Andrea. “This is a reminder to all of us, our family and staff included.”

Andrea hopes that by midsummer, Folino Estate

Winery will provide a shuttle bus that can transport guests between the venues, offsetting any concerns about impaired driving following a celebratory dinner or occasion.

The inn has the space and ability to host its own wine dinners, with a special emphasis on the beautiful, secluded – and covered – courtyard area.

On occasion, such as for full wedding parties or corporate events, the entire inn will be booked by one entity. Andrea says the innkeeper especially delights in the joyful gatherings, particularly families that bring loved ones together under one beautiful roof.

The innkeeper also loves hosting guests from afar, be it

out of state or out of country. Both the estate and inn benefit from the geographical location in northern Berks.

Interstate 78 provides nearly direct access from the New York, New Jersey and Connecticut metropolitan areas. The Philadelphia metro area is less than 90 minutes away, and just further afield to the south and east are Maryland and Delaware.

Andrea credits the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance and the Northeast Berks and Lehigh Chambers as being valuable promotional partners for the inn and estate. With the pending opening of the Vintner’s Table in Wyomissing and potentially another within the next three years in the Bethlehem area, the cross-promotional efforts are only likely to increase.

The Wyomissing location will feature indoor and outdoor dining, a wine tasting bar and a sangria bar, a new twist.

“The sangrias are among our top sellers so we created an extra spot for this and we’re excited to test it with the local market,” she says.

“The plan is to continue to open more of them,” she says of the Vintner’s Tables and other aspects of the business which has increased the full- and part-time staffs to 150.

The growth of the business is a happy mirror to Andrea’s and Marco’s growing family which includes three children, ages 9, 5 and 2.

“My husband and I have a lot pulling us,” she says, “but it’s all good and very positive.”

401 W. Main St. Kutztown | 610.683.0401

vintners-inn.com

Louie’s Kitchen & Bar BAR FOOD DONE RIGHT

BY MARIAN FRANCES WOLBERS | PHOTOS BY HEIDI REUTER

Looking out over a pool and golf greens, Gracie Volker and Jim Lorah’s venture called Louie’s Kitchen & Bar kicked off in March of 2022, encompassing a family-friendly dining area and a separate bar-and-food area. There’s ample seating for outdoor dining as well. The natural light and the view from tall windows that stretch along the building trigger relaxation in customers who will feel like they’re on vacation, about to order dinner from a well-designed, exciting menu that includes gourmet comfort-food entrees, doublesmashed burgers and warm New Orleans-style beignets for dessert.

Gracie assures diners of the restaurant’s commitment to superior flavor and freshness, saying, “Our food is all housemade, from our dressings to the tartar sauce.” She adds, “It’s bar food done right!” Some of the most popular items, she says, are the Mediterranean Salad and Mediterranean Bowl, the Beef

and Cheddar Handhelds and a Nashville Chicken Sandwich. The latter is fried chicken tossed in hot sauce inside a toasted brioche bun, adorned with thinly sliced red onions and savory homemade pickles. Indeed, this menu holds creative cuisine from top to bottom.

Triple Double Chili & Chicken Wings with House-made Sauces

Topping the appetizers are such perfections as Louie’s beloved Chicken Wings (bonein or boneless) with an array of choices for dipping: house-

made ranch, blue cheese, Fresh Orange Sesame, Nashville Hot, K.C. BBQ, honey mustard and hot/mild (hot sauce in butter). “Our wings are made Koreanstyle — that is, battered and twice-fried — so they’re very crispy,” explains Gracie.

The Triple Double Chili is uniquely meaty, dense and spicy (“but not too spicy!”) crafted with kidney beans and black beans, mingled with ground bacon, beef and pork. The base sauce pulls everything together, thanks to four types of dried chili peppers yielding “smooth heat,” says Gracie. Three meats

impart a signature flavor profile here, a welcome change from standard chili. Diners choose between a cup or bowl.

For vegetarians especially, but for any fan of Middle Eastern delicacies, the Hummus Plate is a slam-dunk. It’s rare to find house-made hummus anywhere, but Louie’s version is superbly nutty and lightly garlicky, accompanied by grilled pita bread, cut-up cucumbers, olive tapenade and feta cheese embellished with olive oil, tzatziki and zesty za’atar spice. Licking your fingers cannot be avoided! So good.

The Caramel Burger

A hamburger that’s caramelized! This mouth-melting burger invention is so popular that some diners confess they can’t order anything else, despite so many enticing burger options emerging from the kitchen like the Smokehouse Burger, Steakhouse Burger and the Cheeseburger Melt on grilled rye with two types of cheese.

The Caramel Burger is made with two 4-ounce patties smashed down twice, made sweet and richer than rich, thanks to caramelized bacon, American and provolone cheese, caramelized onions and painted with bacon jam mayo. Sitting tall and juicy in its toasted brioche bun, this is a serious bit of beef.

French fries, delightfully herbed, come with the platter, though diners can opt for an upgrade of Loaded Cheese Fries (cheese sauce, chopped scallions, ranch dressing and bacon) or Louie’s famous Brew City Onion Rings. The latter are tremendous — juicy, sweet and large — with that crispy outside juxtaposed against soft onion-ring interiors. They’re totally satisfying all on their own, but when dipped in house-made Sriracha, a burny bite lingers luxuriously.

Refreshing Summer Salads — from Cobb to Fajita Shrimp

Sometimes a salad is just exactly what the day calls for, and Louie’s distinctive variations are tough to choose from: Cobb Salad, Taco Salad even a Cheeseburger Salad…

The Fajita Shrimp Salad is gorgeous to behold with its rainbow colors, tossing mixed green leafies together with Fajita-sauteed shrimp, tomatoes, cukes, black bean salsa, pineapple salsa, pickled red onions and shredded cheese for good measure. Those contrasting textures, soft to crunchy, plus engaging counterpoints of individually full-flavored ingredients make this salad a truly playful, healthy choice, just the type of salad to linger over with a draft or craft beer, or perhaps a Jalapeño Margarita.

Yuengling Lager-Battered Fish and Chips

Two fresh white fish filets dredged in Louie’s house-made batter are alluringly draped on a pile of French fries for a classic presentation of Fish and Chips. What’s really special is the opportunity to try that creamy tartar sauce, subtly enhancing each bite of tender, flaky fish.

Other entrees abound. There’s Roast Beef with gravy, Chopped Steak, roasted BBQ Pork and a Shrimp Bowl. The Mediterranean Bowl is a local favorite, featuring tender marinated chicken, grilled, then placed on seasoned rice along with spinach, sweet cherry tomatoes, feta, tart tzatziki sauce, olive tapenade and grilled pita.

Croissant-Style Beignets Finish the Meal

Order a House Brew Coffee or cappuccino, or maybe Gracie’s Signature Latte and get ready for an unusual treat, beignets! Munch and crunch into these warm pastries with their soft, doughy interiors, served with gooey dulce de leche dip, to finish with a fancy flourish.

Advice for what matters most, when you need it most

Congratulations to Mark A. Maggs for being named to the 2023 Barron’s “Top 1,200 Financial Advisors” list, published on March 10, 2023. Rankings based on data as of September 30, 2022.

Source: The Barron’s “Top 1,200 Financial Advisors: State-by-State” list, published on March 10, 2023. Rankings based on data as of September 30, 2022. 2023 Barron’s “Top 1,200 Financial Advisors” list. Opinions are Barron’s who evaluated advisors with a minimum of seven years financial services experience and employed at their current firm for at least one year. Other quantitative and qualitative measures include assets under management, quality of practice, regulatory records, internal company documents and 100-plus points of advisor-provided data. Rankings do not reflect any client experience, endorse any advisor and are available for client evaluation only. Compensation was not received from any Advisors for the study.

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