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Lehigh Valley Style February 2026

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THE

MEN'S EDI TION Get to know Joshua Gamble and other influential Valley men on pg. 52

2026'S INFLUENTIAL MEN OF THE YEAR

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CIGAR LOUNGES

LESSONS IN LEADERSHIP

BETHLEHEM BARREL & DRAFTHOUSE FEBRUARY 2026


Recently diagnosed with cancer? We can help. With Lehigh Valley Health Network’s Same Day/ Next Day Cancer Care, you can schedule a video visit with a clinician in 48 hours or less. The wait to talk to someone who can guide your next steps is over.

To schedule your appointment, call 610-402-7880 (hematology oncology) or 610-402-7884 (surgical oncology). To learn more, visit LVHN.org/CancerCare.


RELAX AND RECONNECT Plan your Valentine’s Day couples getaway at our AAA Four Diamond hotel. Enjoy exceptional dining, exciting gaming, live entertainment, relaxing lounges, and a rejuvenating spa—everything you need to reconnect.

VIEW HOTEL PACKAGES WindCreekBethlehem.com

GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER.


DREAM • RESEARCH • PLAN • BOOK AT THE EXPO WITH EXCLUSIVE ONE-DAY SAVINGS & OFFERS*

FREE ADMISSION– no tickets required!

Sunday, February 22 10:00 A M t o 5:00 PM WIND CREEK BALLROOM • 77 Wind Creek Boulevard, Bethlehem

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC • MEET WITH TRAVEL VENDORS • REGISTER TO WIN PRIZES* • VISIT with Travel Experts including ocean & river cruise lines, U.S. & worldwide rail & tour companies, travel insurance, Caribbean & Mexico Hotels & Tourist Bureaus, & local drive resorts & getaways. • BOOK AT THE EXPO & SAVE. Meet with a knowledgeable Travel Advisor to book your trip with special savings!** RECEIVE A SPECIAL GIFT** when you book the day of the Expo. • LEARN ABOUT the discounts, rewards, benefits & services that come with your AAA membership***. SIGN-UP at the Expo. • PARTICIPATING TRADE SHOW VENDORS (subject to change): AAA Member Choice Vacations • AmaWaterways • American Cruise Line • Azamara • Cape May County Department of Tourism • Carnival • CIE Tours • Destination Gettysburg • Holland America Line • International Holidays • J & J Luxury Transportation • Kensington Tours • Luzerne County • National Aquarium • New York State Tourism • New York State Tourism • Norfolk Virginia • Norwegian Cruise Line • Members First • Princess Cruises • Rocky Mountaineer • Royal Caribbean International • Smithsonian National Air • The Happy Valley Adventure Bureau • Trafalger - Insight - Brendan • Uniworld Boutique River Cruises • Viking River & Ocean Cruises • Visit Barbados • Visit Bucks County *No purchase necessary. Must be 18 or older to win. Winner need not be present. **Savings and gifts are restricted to new bookings only and vary by vendor. Minimum $1,899 purchase required for gift. Restrictions apply. ***Member benefits and offers are subject to change without notice and certain restrictions and conditions may apply. © 2026 AAA East Central. All Rights Reserved. AAA East Central is a member club affiliated with the American Automobile Association (AAA) national federation and serves members in Kentucky, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania and West Virginia.

Visit www.AAA.com/VacationExpo for more details


Molasses Creek Farm

Foxfield

Serendipity Acres

Expansive 58-acre property in Bucks County. The updated farmhouse is complemented by an outdoor kitchen, pool, pool house, 5-stall bank barn & indoor riding arena. Offered for $4,000,000

A Saucon Valley legacy estate nestled on 4.6 acres. the house and grounds have been proudly cared for, and recently updated with a stunning addition and renovations. Offered for $3,950,000

A dramatic 2018 barn home with soaring ceilings & hand hewn beams. Walls of windows overlook 5.2 acres including multiple garages, a carriage house & saltwater pool. Offered for $2,250,000

Lanes End Farm

Sunderland

Hillside Lodge

Set on 50 acres, this circa 1863 home is a culmination of many a heart’s desire - a historic home, in pristine condition, on generous acreage and under 2 hours from New York City. Offered for $1,650,000

Twin Ponds Manor

Tucked away on nearly 4 private acres in Lower Saucon Twp, this remarkable property offers a rare combination of natural beauty, historic character, & modern comfort. Offered for $875,000

In a distinguished neighborhood, this captivating home offers a classic New England exterior, circular driveway, and picturesque setting surrounded by mature landscaping. Offered for $1,095,000

Chain Dam Manor

Embrace history at this beautifully maintained and preserved colonial built circa 1750. An ideal mix of classic details and modern amenities, set on a 1-acre corner lot. Offered for $799,000

A road less traveled leads to this delightful log home set amid 12 wooded acres in Upper Bucks Co, seamlessly blending modern comforts with a sophisticated rustic ambiance. Offered for $995,000

The Bethlehem Star

An 1835 brick home on one of Historic Bethlehem’s most admired streets. This charming building is an amazing opportunity to invest in a highly visible & high volume location. Offered for $650,000


CONTENTS MARCO CALDERON PHOTOGRAPHY

Check out Larry Tersigni’s leather goods at Peninsula Handmade, pg. 22

FEBRUARY

10 STYLE SCENE

Events | Benefits Galas | Parties

14 THIS MONTH’S PICKS What We’re Loving Right Now

17 TRENDING NOW

News, Notes & Quotes

22 GET THE GOODS

Peninsula Handmade

25 ASK THE EXPERT

Lessons in Leadership

31 LIVING WELL WITH Bruce Rambo

35 INSIGHT

Kyle Edwards

38 5 THINGS

Cigar Lounges

42 THE GUYS’ GUIDE

TO THE LEHIGH VALLEY

52 LEHIGH VALLEY STYLE ’S INFLUENTIAL MEN OF THE YEAR

60 INSIDE DISH

Bethlehem Barrel & Drafthouse

64 EAT THIS

BBQ Waffle Cone

ON THE COVER

Influential Man of the Year Joshua Gamble, photographed by Alison Conklin

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SAVE FOR A LIMITED TIME on a New 2026 9-Passenger Transit Explorer Van!

Lehigh St.

Allentown

877 - 837 - 2658

www.HaldemanFordAllentown.com


EDITOR’S LETTER

3 THINGS

2026 Influential Men of the Year at Connexions Gallery

MAROC CALDERON PHOTOGRAPHY

our publisher, Pam Deller, is looking forward to this month! pdeller@lehighvalleystyle.com

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Shopping at Peninsula Handmade.

with images by Alison Conklin, shot at Connexions Gallery in Easton (featuring a cameo by gallery cat Hank the Tank). Turn to pg. 52 to find out more about the indelible marks these men have left on our community. Also in this men’s edition, writer Heather Mayer Irvine talks to five Valley men to find out their go-to’s for food, drink, activities and more in our Guys’ Guide to the Lehigh Valley on pg. 42. Learn more about local artist Kyle Edwards on pg. 35, shop for handcrafted leather goods at Peninsula Handmade on pg. 22, check out five local cigar lounges on pg. 38 and learn a bit about what makes a good leader on pg. 25. All that and so much more in this edition of Lehigh Valley Style.

Here’s to the mighty good men,

ANGELA VENNEMANN editor@lehighvalleystyle.com lvstyleangela

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Brushing up on my leadership skills.

ALISON CONKLIN PHOTOGRAPHY

People of a certain vintage will remember the 1993 hit “Whatta Man” by Salt-N-Pepa—I was 11, and that track was on one of the first CDs I ever bought. It was endlessly singable (and rappable), extolling the qualities of a “mighty good man.” Every year, Lehigh Valley Style goes on the hunt for a mighty good man—six, actually. Once again, we found them: our 2026 Influential Men of the Year. These men have their finger on the pulse of the Lehigh Valley and are making a difference to so many people in a multitude of ways. This year, we are proud to honor the work of Eric Aquino, Joshua Gamble, Justin Keiper, John Leonard, Dan Mies and Rocco Zegalia. Writer Amy Unger captured their stories, and we’ve paired those

MAROC CALDERON PHOTOGRAPHY

The Men’s Edition

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Style Insider happy hour at Bethlehem Barrel & Drafthouse on Feb. 10!


A good experience leads to a great recommendation. After all, when you’re satisfied or happy with something, you tell others. It’s only natural. That’s why we’re proud that patient satisfaction exceeds 90% across a variety of services, with patients reporting they are overwhelmingly satisfied and willing to recommend us to others. That’s a big compliment and one that makes striving for the highest patient satisfaction always a high priority. Visit goodshepherdrehab.org/satisfaction to learn more.


STAFF SPEAKS Who is a man—local or famous—who inspires you?

V O LU M E 2 8 , I S S U E 2 Locally, I’m inspired by Pastor Joe Henseler at Faith Church in Allentown. Famously, I’m inspired by Jay Shetty’s On Purpose podcast! I love food, and I love Spain, so I’d have to say Chef José Andrés. He does amazing humanitarian work through World Central Kitchen, feeding people in need during conflict and natural disasters. U.S. Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-Maryland)— when his 25-year-old son committed suicide, Raskin wrote a tribute and obituary that touched me deeply. Articulating in a public forum the essence of a child loved so deeply who’s been lost to mental illness, at a time filled with the excruciating pain of that loss, says something beautiful about a person. My dad, James Unger. He taught me the value of hard work. Now he’s retired and relishing his role as a grandfather (or Grizz, as we call him). I am inspired by Ryan Holiday, arguably the world’s best-known promoter of stoicism, who has helped me significantly over the last five years. His translation of this kind of philosophy to contemporary times affected me positively.

President/CEO Paul Prass Vice President/COO Lisa Prass Publisher Pamela Deller Managing Editor Angela Vennemann Digital Strategy Director Jason Chrin Production Coordinator Eleanor Anderson Graphic Designers Eleanor Anderson, Thomas Körp, Elaine Wyborski Marketing & Events Coordinator Jaiden Vazquez Marketing Advisors Denise Lichty, Arielle Solliday, Pam Taylor Client Specialist Emily Markovich Contributing Writers Susan Gottshall, Heather Mayer Irvine, Amy Unger, Daisy Willis Contributing Photographers Marco Calderon, Matthew Cannon, Alison Conklin Editorial Intern Maggie Wilson Proofreader Lori McLaughlin Accounting Jobelle Aleño, Leza Ovten

In partnership with:

©2026 3245 Freemansburg Ave., Palmer, PA 18045 Phone: 610.923.0384 Fax: 610.923.0390

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I have always been inspired by George Carlin, since he intelligently mixed inner thoughts, feelings and monologue with social and political commentary, all in a comedic way. “Weird Al” Yankovic is a musical powerhouse, plus his core band has been the same since the ’80s, which really speaks to his character! I’d have to say I admire Mel Gibson for his powerful storytelling and his willingness to take creative risks as a filmmaker.

Cubmaster Jeff Wisnoski! He doesn’t let his prosthetic leg keep him from leading Pack 368 on all of the hiking, climbing, camping and boating adventures. I have three men in my life who inspire me. My husband of almost 20 years, Geoff, who makes me laugh and has been by my side through some really hard seasons. And my sons, Jonas and Moses, whom I am so grateful to get to witness grow up.

Lehigh Valley Style (ISSN 1540-0867) is published monthly by IDP Publications, 3245 Freemansburg Ave., Palmer, PA 18045-7118. Annual subscriptions are $19.95 (Canadian and foreign one year rate is $40, U.S. funds only). Single copy price $3.95. Postage paid at Easton, PA 18045 and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: send address changes to Lehigh Valley Style, P.O. Box 293142, Kettering, OH, 45429. For subscription services, call 1.800.896.1392 All contents copyright © 2026 Lehigh Valley Style. Nothing contained herein may be reproduced in whole or in part without the expressed written consent of the publisher. The publisher disclaims all responsibility for omissions or errors. Lehigh Valley Style and its owners are not liable for claims made by any advertisers or any inaccuracies or intentional copyright infringements. All rights reserved. This magazine welcomes, but cannot be responsible for, unsolicited manuscripts, contributions or photographs. Unsolicited materials cannot be returned unless accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope. Printed in USA.


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REBECCAFRANCISREALTORS.com ©BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently operated subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, and a franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity. Information not verified or guaranteed. If your home is currently listed with a Broker, this is not intended as a solicitation.


STYLE SCENE MIKE ROBINSON PRODUCTIONS

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Historic Bethlehem Museums and Sites Holiday Gala Located at ArtsQuest Center

1 | Odete and Peter Kelly 2 | Lynn and Jon Mull 3 | Luke Dellmyer and Katt Mills 4 | Kelly Ronalds and Joanna and Bruce Haines 5 | Jess Cass, Karen McIntyre, Shelby Eichenlaub, Lucinda Dealtrey and Sheryl Maher 6 | Eric and Michelle Lebby 7 | Greg and Roey Ebert 8 | Haydemar and Tom Groves 9 | Mark and Colleen Gilbert and Jamie and Scott Howser 10 | Steven and Barbara Diamond and Patricia and Alan Lowcher 11 | Diane and Jim Molinaro 12 | Dale and Nancy Ahlum 13 | Blaine Phillips and Sheryl Maher

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SELF-CARE starts here

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THE TRICIA VERMILYA REWARDS PROGRAM offers four exclusive loyalty plans designed to fit every budget and skin goal, making luxury aesthetics more accessible than ever. Whether you’re looking for essential skincare maintenance or the ultimate VIP experience, each tier provides curated treatments, special perks, and priority booking to keep your skin glowing year-round.

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CALL OR TEXT: 484.788.3491

TRICIAVAESTHETICS.COM


STYLE SCENE MIKE ROBINSON PRODUCTIONS

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Historic Bethlehem Museums and Sites Holiday Gala Located at ArtsQuest Center

14 | Christopher Lick and Lindsey Jancay 15 | Sara LaPrincesa and Lindsay Watson 16 | Cari and David Maslow 17 | Chris Graham, Lee-Anne Graham and Kim and Ron Reybitz 18 | Sandy Gass, Ron and Sharon Donchez and Kriss Marion 19 | Abby and Joe Flannery 20 | Anna Maria and Bill Stoerrle 21 | Cherie and Mike Starner 22 | Umberto Piscine, Gwen Shields and Julie and Scott Ambrose 23 | Victor and Nadya Salicetti and Lynn and Rocco Zegalia 24 | Dennis and Judy Dougherty 25 | Ed Baldrige and Lydia Panas 26 | Emma and Richard Reynolds

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HEY LEHIGH VALLEY, We’re upgrading our fiber network with speeds up to 5 GiG!

astound.com/network *Restrictions apply. See astound.com for details. © 2025 Radiate HoldCo, LLC d/b/a Astound Broadband. All rights reserved. AST195

L E H I G H VA L L E Y S T Y L E . C O M : F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6

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THIS MONTH’S PICKS

BREAKFAST ON WHEELS

Now Open

Fans of U&Tea’s Chinese fare can now shop next door for ingredients to create their own dishes. U&T Asian Market opened in December and carries imported Chinese and Taiwanese grocery items, including fresh produce, snacks, dry goods and refrigerated and frozen food.

Don’t have time to stop for breakfast on the way to work? The Breakfast Van by Little Cali has you covered! With 24 hours’ notice, the van will come to your workplace, Monday through Saturday, starting at 6 a.m., to sell fresh breakfast burritos, empanadas, pandebonos, buñuelos and Colombian coffee.

484.353.4994

Rebrand

Mangia Carne in the Easton Public Market has undergone a rebrand and is now known as Luca and Sons. The sandwich and butcher shop run by Masterchef winner Luca Manfè offers imported deli meats and cheeses as well as Italian dishes and catering options.

luca_and_sons

M AT T H E W C A N N O N P H O T O G R A P H Y

Congrats!

At November’s US Open Cider Championship, Bethlehem’s Five Maidens Cider Company brought home a gold medal for Galactic Charlie Goes to Idaho, a silver medal for Betty and two bronze medals for Quarter Hoop and Nectaron. The cidery is now ranked the eighth best in the country! 5mcider

610.861.2896

COURTESY OF HIJINX BRE WING COMPANY

COURTESY OF THE DIME

New Location

FRESH START If you haven’t been to The Dime in Allentown’s Renaissance Hotel recently, you’re due for a visit. The restaurant has undergone a refresh, with redesigned dining and lounge areas and regional sourcing for their new seasonal menus featuring elevated American cuisine. thedimeallentown.com

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HiJinx Brewing Company closed their Allentown taproom and brewery in late December, but they’re back with a new location at the Tatamy Volunteer Fire Company. The new space is an ideal community hangout, with plenty of room for activities inside and out.

HiJinxBrewing


HOW DO YOU SAY CARB LOADING IN ITALIAN?

Everyone’s watching their carbs. But if you’re craving handmade pasta with a delicious modern twist, we can help. You’ll find plenty of pasta choices, along with gourmet pizzas and other Italian dishes, in an expansive menu. All impeccably served in an inviting, stunningly beautiful atmosphere. Melt. Italian cuisine, totally worth every carb. meltgrill.com 610-798-9000 A PAXOS RESTAURANT


you provide the spot, we’ll make it your

PLACE to be

Designers and Builders of Award-Winning Landscapes, Interiors and Events Visit our Showroom and Gift Shop: 1780 Rt. 100, Bally, PA 19503 • Saturdays 10–2


COURTESY OF ROASTIES COFFEE

TRENDING NOW COURTESY OF BOXOLOGY

ROASTIES COFFEE

BRICK-AND-MORTAR NOW OPEN

Roasties Coffee has gone from a tent to a trailer and now a brick-and-mortar spot, and its story reads less like a business plan and more like a caffeine-fueled leap of faith. “What started as a hobby led to me quitting my full-time project management job to build out our little teardrop trailer,” says owner Melinda Schneck. From parking their mobile café on Route 100 to serving lines “fifteen to twenty people deep all day every Saturday and Sunday,” growth happened fast. When a permanent spot became available near Macungie Memorial Park, Schneck recalls, “It was perfect timing and a very, very easy yes for us!” Fan favorites include the Hunny Bunny Cold Brew, which Schneck calls “a cinnamon, vanilla and honey-flavored blend… topped with fluffy cold foam and a pure honey drizzle,” and the Monkey Biz Latte—her personal go-to. Add in gluten-free banana matcha muffins, ham and cheese croissants and breakfast burritos that sell out quickly and you’ve got a menu worth standing in line for. And yes, the trailer is staying. “It’s like our tiny sidekick,” Schneck laughs. “This café exists because of the people who cheered us on… We hope every visit to Roasties makes your day a tiny bit brighter.”

17 N. Poplar St., Macungie | roasties.coffee roasties.coffee

BOXOLOGY

TRAIN LIKE A FIGHTER IN EASTON

“Boxology began with a simple belief: authentic fight training can change people from the inside out,” says Lee Robustelli, the owner of Boxology, a boxing, fitness and MMA gym located in The Commodore in the heart of Easton. And if Robustelli’s claim sounds lofty, it helps that the gym actually backs it up with structure, grit and a refreshingly no-nonsense approach. “We didn’t want to create another fitness studio,” he explains. “We wanted to create a place where everyday people—not just athletes— could experience the confidence, discipline and strength that come from learning real skills.” What makes Boxology hit harder than the rest isn’t just the bags, the mitts or the sweat—it’s the “Fight Path,” which Robustelli describes as “a progression-based training system that guides every member from their first punch to more advanced technique and conditioning.” From one-on-one coaching to beginner-friendly group classes, Boxology welcomes everyone—first-timers, women, teens and experienced athletes—to learn real techniques and real discipline: “No guessing. No intimidation. Just skill, sweat and progress,” Robustelli says. “The only thing you need is the willingness to work and learn.” In a fitness world crowded with quick fixes, Boxology offers something rarer—real training, real community and real transformation.

102 Northampton St., Easton | boxology.life |

boxologylife

VELVET TAILS LUXURY PET SERVICES PAMPER YOUR PET IN NAZARETH

For so many of us, pets aren’t just animals—they’re family (why else do we call them fur babies?). When you want nothing but the best for your four-legged friends, a visit to Velvet Tails Luxury Pet Services is absolutely in order. Best friends and co-owners Matthew Aviles, Anna Smutz and Jenna Hurler launched their dream salon, four years in the making, in December. “We offer all kinds of services, from à la carte nail trims to baths, haircuts and even semi-permanent dye,” they say. Velvet Tails serves both dogs and cats and places a low-stress environment at the top of their list—appointments are for one pet at a time, with minimal time spent in a kennel. They offer a variety of high-quality products (yes, your dog needs that blueberry facial) as well as individualized haircut consultations for the right groom every time. For anxious, shy, senior or special-needs pets, they offer session extensions with extra breaks, extra time and fewer stressors. What sets them apart from other groomers in the Valley? “Our team,” the owners say. “Our chemistry together and ability to make others feel at home is unparalleled.” Velvet Tails is currently taking new clients and offers flexible scheduling.

39 Belvidere St. Unit 1, Nazareth | 610.365.4450 | velvettails.services L E H I G H VA L L E Y S T Y L E . C O M : F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6

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TRENDING NOW COURTESY OF MAMA B RESALE BOUTIQUE

MAMA B RESALE BOUTIQUE NEW LOCATION NOW OPEN

Tonya “Mama B” Johnson has become a bit of a Lehigh Valley style icon, from sporting a custom, blinged-out jacket by local designer Laura Bly at Super Bowl LIX to opening her own shop, Mama B Resale Boutique, last spring in Southside Bethlehem. The fashionista has made moves again, recently relocating her shop to new digs in Downtown Allentown. “My decision to move was to basically look for more foot traffic,” says Johnson, the mother of Coplay native and Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley. The boutique deals in new and gently used clothing, shoes and accessories for men, women and children, with Johnson saying that there’s “a little something for everyone.” The previously loved items come from members of the Barkley family and cover brands such as Nike, American Eagle, Michael Kors, Madewell and Vera Bradley. Shoppers looking for a deal on luxury items are in luck: the boutique has offered pieces from designers like Balenciaga and Versace. Johnson adds new items to the store at least weekly, and she occasionally offers special items for Eagles fans: in December, the store had two jerseys signed by Barkley, with proceeds going to the Michael Ann & Saquon Barkley Hope Foundation.

107 N. 7th St. Suite 110, Allentown | mamaboutiques.com |

Mama B Resale Boutique

New Year, New Cultivations Transform with Evans Counseling Services

This year, instead of resolutions, why not focus on cultivating mindful, lasting change? At Evans Counseling Services, we offer transformative somatic practices through our Oasis Room workshops, groups, and classes, helping you integrate body, mind, and spirit to release old patterns, reduce stress, and build resilience. Rather than chasing quick fixes or external accomplishments, somatic practices guide you to explore the connection between thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations, unlocking a new path to personal growth. Whether you’re seeking to reduce stress, enhance self-awareness, or develop emotional resilience, our workshops and classes provide practical, body-centered skills tailored to your journey. From mindfulness through plants and music as healing to holistic health and gentle movement practices, our offerings are designed to support sustainable growth. Make 2026 the year of intentional transformation—nourish what matters most and start your journey today by visiting our website to explore upcoming workshops and classes.

124 S. Main St., Coopersburg 610.282.5735 evanscounselingservices.com

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TRENDING NOW C O U R T E S Y O F R E V O LV C Y C L E S T U D I O

REVOLV CYCLE STUDIO

MUSIC MEETS MOVEMENT

Revolv Cycle Studio may be new to the Emmaus fitness scene, but its journey has already become a community story worth telling. “Our journey started in Emmaus with us looking for Revolv’s home,” owners Taylor George and Ross Jarsocrak say. Once they found the perfect location last August, “We never looked back.” Renovations kicked off with the help of friends and family, followed by a road trip to Atlanta to secure their beloved Stages bikes. “Long days with longer nights got us to where we are,” they say, “but we would not trade this experience for the world.” Inside the studio, riders can expect rhythmic cycling classes where “music meets movement” and the focus is on connecting mind and body. Membership is intentionally flexible, offering month-to-month options, class packs and yes: your first class is free. What truly sets Revolv apart is the team: “Passionate, energetic and most of all, kind and caring.” Each instructor brings their own style, knowledge and personality to every ride. Located near the Emmaus Triangle, the studio has felt the community’s enthusiasm from the start. “We could not be any more grateful,” George and Jarsocrak say. Their goal is simple: create a place “that feels like home” where every workout—quite literally—“revolvs” around you.

1020 Chestnut St., Emmaus | revolvcycle.com | 484.697.0460 |

revolvcycle

NOT JUS T A SHOP, BUT A SHOPPING E XPE RIENCE

A thoughtfully curated selection of d e p e n d a b l e g e a r b u i l t f o r t h e r o a d , t h e r i ve r, a n d eve r y t h i n g i n b e t w e e n .

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9 0 8 . 5 5 7. 5 2 7 5 LOS TG O O D SA N D G E A R .CO M FEATURING AMUNDSEN • BARBOUR • DOUGLAS • ENO • FISHPOND • HOWLER BROS • MSR MUCK BOOT COMPANY • ORVIS • PENDLETON • RODD & GUNN • SKIDA • SMITH + MORE

L E H I G H VA L L E Y S T Y L E . C O M : F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6

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ONLINE THIS MONTH MEL / ADOBE STOCK

Explore Our Guides

Don’t miss the best of the Valley when it comes to beauty & wellness, food & drink and shopping local. Visit lehighvalleystyle.com/guides for our top picks.

EFSTOCK / ADOBE STOCK

BE PART OF THE STORY!

Do you know an individual who should be considered for our 2026 Influential Women of the Year feature? Nominate them at lehighvalleystyle.com/share-with-us!

DID YOU KNOW?

You can view the entire issue for free online at lehighvalleystyle.com!

WANT TO KNOW WHERE OUR NEXT STYLE INSIDER HAPPY HOUR WILL BE?

Want info about upcoming Lehigh Valley Style events? Follow Lehigh Valley Style on Facebook and click on our Events tab! CONNECT W ITH ST Y LE:

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Only Online

Looking for things to do in the Valley and exclusive LVS content? Visit lehighvalleystyle.com for weekly event listings, web-only articles and more!


SPONSOR CONTENT

PHOTO COURTESY MORAVIAN ACADEMY

INNOVATION IN ACTION Engineering & Design at Moravian Academy’s Swain Campus In the Imaginate Makerspace at Moravian Academy’s Swain Campus, creativity takes center stage. This state-of-the-art engineering and design laboratory invites students from preschool through grade 8 to engage in hands-on projects that spark curiosity, imagination and confidence. Using MacBooks and cuttingedge tools, students design, prototype and bring their ideas to life—building go-karts, gliders, LED paper sculptures, circuits and even furniture. These experiences nurture problem-solving skills and inspire students to explore boldly across the STEM fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

The Swain Campus in Allentown serves preschool through grade 8 students and is one of three distinct campuses at Moravian Academy, where every learner is empowered to discover their passions and pursue excellence. The Historic Downtown Campus in Bethlehem, also serving preschool through grade 8, features signature programs such as Spanish Immersion and Suzuki Strings, while the Merle-Smith Campus for grades 9–12 provides a dynamic, college-

At every grade level, Imaginate Makerspace projects are thoughtfully integrated with classroom learning. From Pennsylvania wildlife studies in kindergarten to independent design projects in eighth grade, each experience connects handson creation with academic concepts. Whether sculpting, coding or constructing, students learn to collaborate, experiment and persevere—transforming ideas into tangible results and gaining confidence as innovators and leaders.

like environment. Guided by a comprehensive College Counseling Program offering personalized, relationshipdriven support, ninety-five percent of the Class of 2025 will attend one of their top three college or university choices.

Discover how Moravian Academy inspires a lifelong love of learning at moravianacademy.org

SWAIN CAMPUS PS-Grade 8 | 610.433.4542 | 1100 South 24th Street, Allentown HISTORIC DOWNTOWN CAMPUS PS–Grade 8 | 610.868.4744 | 7 East Market Street, Bethlehem MERLE-SMITH CAMPUS Grades 9–12 | 610.691.1600 | 4313 Green Pond Road, Bethlehem


GET THE GOODS

Peninsula Handmade PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARCO CALDERON

Larry Tersigni knows a lot about making things. All kinds of things. During his career in production and manufacturing, he caught the leatherworking bug and never quite shook it. Now his hobby has become his career’s second act, with his handmade leather goods adorning the shelves of his workshop and studio, Peninsula Handmade.

Q

Tell us a little about your background and how you found yourself working with handcrafted leather goods. More than 27 years ago, I created a business in global sourcing and production management. My work often required me to spend several weeks at a time based in Hong Kong, where I gained valuable experience in all types of production and manufacturing processes. In the spring of 2015, I was contracted to execute a multifaceted project for a core client. One of the components was the creation of a leather-bound journal. While collaborating closely with the factory, I found myself captivated by the intricate process of making these leather journals. My initial interest soon became a hobby, which, over time, developed into a true passion and eventually a post-retirement business. By 2019, my dedication to the craft had outgrown the confines of my basement workspace. My wife and I recognized the need for a dedicated, independent space to accommodate my growing endeavor. As a result, I established my studio/ workshop in the Silk Mill in December 2019, marking a new chapter in my journey as a leather artisan.

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What are some of the items that you stock at Peninsula Handmade? I stock a diverse selection of leather goods, each crafted in various shapes and styles to suit different needs and preferences. This collection includes a wide range of bags, belts, wallets, passport covers, eyewear cases, laptop sleeves and men’s business bags and Dopp kits. These items represent just a portion of what I offer, reflecting my commitment to quality and variety. Do you make any of these items in-house? I create custom bags, belts, wallets and a variety of leather accessories using the finest leathers sourced directly from Italian tanneries. Many of these pieces are meticulously hand-sewn, utilizing traditional saddlestitching techniques, ensuring durability and a refined finish. Additionally, almost all of my smaller leather goods can be personalized to suit individual preferences, providing a unique touch to each item. You recently were on a purchasing trip in Italy. Tell us what goes into selecting the leathers you work with and the finished goods you carry. I must confess, I make every effort to travel to Italy as frequently as possible, and it rarely takes much persuasion to convince me that another trip is necessary. These visits are not only personally rewarding but also deeply enriching for my craft. One of the highlights of my travels is visiting the tanneries in Tuscany. These excursions are always especially engaging and fulfilling. I am able

to witness firsthand the remarkable transformation of raw hides into exquisite leather canvases. The artisans employ centuriesold, all-natural organic processes and techniques, turning organic natural materials into the high-quality leather that serves as the foundation for my work. Observing these traditional methods deepens my appreciation for the craft and inspires me to uphold the highest standards in my own creations. For the collection of finished goods, I carefully selected a small group of family-owned leather bag production houses located between Bologna and Florence. Each of these workshops is home to exceptionally skilled artisans who bring both classic and contemporary designs to life, reflecting the latest trends in fashion. Their expertise and dedication to craftsmanship ensure that every piece meets the highest standards of quality and style. What items have been popular with customers? Among the most sought-after items in my collection are men’s handmade wallets, each crafted with attention to detail and durability. Madeto-fit custom belts are another favorite, tailored to individual preferences and designed to complement any wardrobe. For business professionals, my selection includes refined business bags that offer both functionality and style. Customers consistently gravitate toward the timeless elegance of classic hand and shoulder bags. These pieces are available in a range of colors and textures, from the smooth finish of vachetta leather to the luxurious feel

of woven, butter-soft leathers. Additionally, carry-on-size travel bags have been a popular choice all year round. Is there anything customers might be surprised to find in Peninsula Handmade? In addition to handmaking men’s and women’s wallets, I also craft watch straps by hand. Many people are pleasantly surprised to discover that my watch straps are available in a variety of premium materials, including calf, chevre and genuine crocodile leather. Each strap is made with the same attention to detail and dedication to quality that defines all of my leather goods, ensuring both style and durability. What do you love about your location? My workspace at the Silk Mill is a place I truly cherish. The atmosphere is incredibly relaxed, allowing creativity to flow naturally. Sunlight pours into the studio, illuminating every corner and enhancing the inviting ambiance. The workshop retains its classic character, with vintage touches that evoke a sense of tradition and history. Perhaps most evident, the rich scent of leather fills the air, creating a multisensory experience that deepens my connection to the craft and the materials I use every day.

1262 Simon Blvd. Studio B-103, Easton 610.250.9512 | peninsulaleather.com


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LESSONS IN

LEADERSHIP BY DAISY WILLIS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARCO CALDERON

ASK THE EXPERT Darian Colbert COFOUNDER, COHESION NETWORK

Cohesion Network is a nonprofit cultivating thriving, connected communities through the teaching of leadership principles. What are the qualities of a good leader and how can we all embody them? Cohesion’s cofounder Darian Colbert explains:

LEADERSHIP = RESPONSIBILITY Leadership doesn’t consist of specific actions or communications deployed to get other people to do things. Nor is it simply the authority conferred by a title. “It’s definitely not about being in charge,” Colbert says. “Leadership is the responsibility of supporting those around you.” Leading grows out of the responsibility to have honest conversations, be accountable and help others grow. “People talk about power,” Colbert notes. “‘I’m this leader, director, CEO’—but there’s great responsibility there, and I wish people leaned into that more.”

EVERYONE IS A LEADER Colbert works with young people and refers to them always as “young leaders.” When he enters the classroom and starts speaking this way, many are taken aback and confused, but he’s challenging every one of them to think of themselves that way. “I believe everyone’s a leader because we all have to lead ourselves. Your superpower is to be you,” Colbert tells the kids. “No one else has your DNA.” L E H I G H VA L L E Y S T Y L E . C O M : F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6

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ASK THE EXPERT One of the misconceptions about leadership is the idea that a leader must be an infallible expert. “Some leaders think they need to have all the answers and be the best in their sphere,” Colbert says. That’s confusing a facade of expertise for leadership, which requires the vulnerability to say things like, “I don’t know yet.” Great leaders model how to make mistakes and ask questions, creating space for others to be part of the solution.

PRACTICE CHARACTER

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Character is a major watchword in Colbert’s lessons on leadership. Since we all start as leaders to ourselves, our daily choices are the bedrock of character. “Everyone makes 30,000 decisions a day,” Colbert says, “and those shape our character, for good or not so good.” The practice of emotional regulation has allowed Colbert to encounter differences with curiosity over criticism and form connections that grow leadership in himself and others. Listening to others and even ourselves without reacting is crucial to create space for questions, challenge and open dialogue. By listening well, we’re already modeling behavior that we want to see in others and helping them grow. To cultivate your own character, surround yourself with people who support your growth and consider how living your values is a way to build accountability with yourself as well as encouraging integrity in others.

SAY, CAN YOU SEA? Colbert adheres to an acronym that spells out how anyone can build rapport: Service, Encouragement and Accountability. Service means if you’re asking someone else to do something, you’re willing to do it, too. When the manager wades onto the floor to pitch in, that builds respect and earns them the right to encourage. Encouragement can ring hollow unless the person offering it is perceived as understanding and sharing in the work. With service behind it, encouragement builds trust that can be called upon when it’s time to hold others accountable.


Valentine’s Accountability is more likely to be received well when it comes from a person who understands and values one’s efforts. Colbert quotes the wisdom, “Rules without relationship leads to rebellion.” Rather than holding folks at imperious arm’s length, it’s vital for leaders—and that’s everyone!—to consider these principles in order to get the best out of themselves and each other.

WEAK LEADERSHIP What does poor leadership look like? Colbert sees an insecure person demanding loyalty and checked out from the relationships around them. This creates what Colbert calls a “false peace,” where fractures in an organization or relationship don’t exist for leadership because they simply refuse to acknowledge what they can’t or don’t want to deal with. Unfortunately, the fractures do still exist and foment a toxic culture and bad morale. “A good leader,” Colbert says, “is committed to the message of ‘we,’ acknowledging their own flaws and the need for collaboration.” A weak leader may be perceived as strong when they’re mistaken for the mission itself, either as a worshiped figurehead or a feared source of arbitrary displeasure. A good leader will redirect focus from themselves to the cause.

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While Colbert holds that “we is greater than me,” leadership has to start internally, with self-care. He wouldn’t be where he is if he hadn’t learned to accept and forgive himself and to recognize his true worth. “Personal development is community development,” he says. “The work of you is the most important thing about being a leader.” We can’t pour from an empty cup, so to be a great leader of others, take care of yourself. Colbert’s morning routine gives him a nourishing basis of reading, gentle movement and meditation. What habits might feed your capacity to meet the world ready to serve, encourage and see the light in others?

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PROFILES: CAUSES IN THE VALLEY

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Providing access to art, culture and educational programs for the diverse residents of the Lehigh Valley and others who seek access to our community Mission-focused, ArtsQuest has its eye on the future with a brand-new, state-of-the-art Cultural Center slated to be built in 2025 in addition to the renovation of the historic Turn & Grind Shop, located next to the Bethlehem Visitor Center on the SteelStacks campus. The Cultural Center will serve as a visible and creative gateway to Bethlehem’s SouthSide; provide much needed space, new programs and advanced technology that will double the number of students and families ArtsQuest currently serves; implement new partnerships as a Communications Career Pathway Program with the BASD; and further foster economic development and tourism across the Lehigh Valley, which will improve property values and further civic pride. The Turn & Grind Shop will allow ArtsQuest to significantly expand its private event space to further accommodate corporate events, weddings, proms and additional functions. Its beautiful and historical location and structure will significantly further travel and tourism to the Lehigh Valley.

ArtsQuest is a nonprofit with a mission of providing access to the arts for all. Its programs reach more than 1.9 million people annually. Fundraising events, sponsors and community partners allow ArtsQuest to provide over half of its programming free to the public with scholarships available for individuals facing financial hardship. 25 W. 3 rd St., Bethlehem | 610.332.1300 | artsquest.org

HAVEN HOUSE: RESTORING HOPE, RENEWING LIVES The preschool By creating a stigma-free community in which those with barriers can thrive towards independence and accomplishment experience every The need for community-based mental health services from organizations like Haven House has grown post-pandemic. Looking in from the outside, one wouldn’t know that over 70 staff members are working to keep seven distinct programs and At our school, you’ll find supportive teachers, countless partnerships running to support around a nurturing environment, and ain curriculum 3,000 individuals Lehigh and Northampton counties. Haven House that sets the stage for success. continually searches for new opportunities to expand and improve access to services to fulfill their mission. In addition, Haven House takes every opportunity to further educate the public around mental health to foster a stigmafree environment. This year, Haven House plans to resume poverty simulations, grow group therapy options and host a gala-type event, in order to reach new and different audiences regarding community mental health. Please follow them on Facebook or subscribe to their newsletter to avoid missing any of their exciting updates.

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Members of the Haven House leadership team

Haven House is committed to empowering individuals to overcome barriers in their lives and provide them with support and an opportunity to reach their full potential. To support Haven House, or to learn more about their different programs, visit haven-house.com.

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LIVING WELL WITH

Bruce Rambo ATHLETIC RECOVERY SPECIALIST, NUHOUSE PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARCO CALDERON

It’s disappointing when you can’t be at the top of your game because of an injury. At NuHouse, athletic recovery specialist Bruce Rambo helps his clients heal from what’s holding them back and sets them up for success with a mind towards preventing future issues.

Q

Tell us a little about NuHouse. At NuHouse, we seamlessly blend new-age technology with timeless healing practices, offering a sanctuary where you can rediscover the profound feeling of deep rest, true recovery and genuine healing. Since 2019, we have championed an integrative future for wellness, where a coordinated network of practitioners and healers collaboratively bridges the gaps sometimes left by conventional care. We reject the “one size fits all” approach; here at The House, you are empowered to explore, discover and personally define what well-being means for you. Every modality is specifically designed to move you toward a state of wholeness and wellness. Our dedicated collective—comprising a chiropractor, laser therapists, acupuncturists, massage therapists, estheticians, a dietitian, infrared sauna, salt room, cryo and recovery specialists— works together, supporting your journey every step of the way. What types of therapies do you personally offer to your clients at NuHouse? PiezoWave (soundwave therapy), whole-body

and localized cryotherapy, emFieldPro high-energy inductive therapy (HEIT) and low-level laser therapy. What is PiezoWave therapy and how can it help your clients recover from injury? Also known as shockwave or myofascial acoustic compression therapy, this noninvasive treatment uses focused sound waves to target deep tissue pain and injuries. It stimulates blood flow and cellular regeneration and reduces inflammation, offering an alternative to surgery or extended downtime for conditions like plantar fasciitis, tendinitis and chronic pain. Piezo allows us to work side-by-side with our clients, communicating the whole time to get to the root cause of their pain. You also offer laser therapy and cryotherapy. How do these different modalities complement each other when treating an injury? The answer here brings us back to our days in high school biology. You may or may not remember the teacher talking at length about ATP (adenosine triphosphate). Low-level laser therapy, or photobiomodulation, uses light to stimulate mitochondria for better

cellular function and quicker recovery from injuries or chronic conditions. It's about giving your body the fuel it needs to heal itself more effectively. ATP needs oxygen as the final electron acceptor in the electron transport chain. Cryotherapy increases oxygen circulation by triggering the body's “fight-or-flight” response, constricting blood vessels to send oxygen-rich blood to the core; upon exiting, this nutrient-packed blood rushes back out, delivering more oxygen and nutrients to tissues, aiding recovery, reducing inflammation and boosting cellular function. Simply put, ATP + O2-rich blood = increased healing. Tell us about HEIT therapy. HEIT is a cutting-edge, noninvasive treatment that utilizes powerful electromagnetic fields to reach deep within the body. This therapy stimulates cells, tissues and nerves, which in turn promotes healing, reduces inflammation, improves circulation and offers pain relief for a variety of conditions, including chronic pain, nerve issues and postsurgical recovery. At its core, HEIT works by boosting cellular energy. Healthy cells naturally possess a higher membrane L E H I G H VA L L E Y S T Y L E . C O M : F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6

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LIVING WELL WITH charge (energy) than cells that are diseased or aged, which have an impaired function due to a low membrane charge. The electromagnetic fields (EMFs) generated by the emField/HEIT machine penetrate deep into tissues, activating electrochemistry and improving overall cell function. This machine can generate a magnetic field up to 3 teslas—a strength 600 times greater than a normal magnet—to stimulate nerve cells, muscles and blood vessels, increasing movement and recovery. Injury recovery is often complicated by the body's natural response: the brain creates suboptimal compensation patterns in the surrounding muscles to protect and unload the damaged tissues. A critical and challenging phase of recovery is the process of retraining efficient muscle activation patterns to restore optimal movement once the tissues are fully healed. With HEIT we can prevent the disuse atrophy that comes with anything from a mild sprain to post-surgery recovery. What kinds of things do you recommend to your clients to help them prevent injury? Here at NuHouse, our goal has always been about wellness, not sickness and injury. Using preventative measures to allow the body to run optimally goes a long way to keep the body from breaking down and ultimately getting injured. Today, many athletes push themselves to the limit. There seems to be no break or downtime in-season or between seasons for multisport athletes. Just make sure you are listening to what your body is saying. It may be telling you it's time for rest. What goals do you have for your personal wellness? Unfortunately, my answer has to start with some advice: “Do as I say, not as I do!” Personal wellness for me has been a struggle for quite some time. Chronic pain from old injuries and some new ones has put a damper on my wellness journey. Sometimes, fear of the unknown can paralyze you physically and mentally. It causes us to make excuses, like “I don’t have the time,” or “Recovery is impossible


for me.” I've been talking a lot to people about that fear recently. I have about fifteen steps to get to my basement, which has all the weights and equipment I need to get started on my wellness journey. Unfortunately, the fear of what's at the bottom of those fifteen steps has kept me from getting started. Fortunately, seeing and hearing about people getting better every day—along with coworkers telling me to get on the table for some treatment and a bit of pressure from my family, especially my wife, Jess—has me ready to set some goals and accomplish them. Describe your morning routine. My morning routine is pretty simple: an early wake-up (sleep generally escapes me), making sure the kids—Luke, 17, and Jett, 12—are up and ready to get off to school, then logging in to see my schedule for the day. Gotta make a plan! Breakfast is generally not my go-to meal except on the weekend when we can do it as a family. Soon, though, as part of my routine, I will be tackling those basement stairs to the gym that I’ve been avoiding forever. What about your nighttime routine? The nighttime routine also revolves around the family. Always a game or practice or both for the kids. My wife and I are often splitting duties—drop off here, pick up there. Then, of course, a way-too-late dinner and some relaxing time when everyone can talk about their day. How do you relieve stress? Most people spend way too much time worrying about things that will never even happen, or other things that are uncontrollable. Maybe worse than anything, people worry about things that have happened in the past that are completely unchangeable. For me, sometimes to a fault, it is easy to just not take things too seriously, or make a joke to avoid the stress. But when it's unavoidable I lean on family and friends. Talk about it, see if it's even a real thing and if it’s not, let it go! What is your philosophy on recovery? It’s simple: “If you stay ready, you don't have to get ready!”

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ALISON CONKLIN PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO COURTESY STEEL CLUB

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Steel Club’s signature restaurant, The BeamYard, offers flexible dining with 50+ bar seats, private booths, and expansive views of the golf course. With 16 TVs, rotating beer taps, irresistible specials, wine dinners, and beer tastings, there’s always something happening.

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INSIGHT

Kyle Edwards BY AMY UNGER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALISON CONKLIN

The lights are low. The audience is quiet. A single spotlight illuminates a small stage. And into that spotlight steps… well, it depends on the day of the week. inkwell. is a place where anything—or at least many things—goes. Its lineup of featured guests—comedians, poets, musicians and openmic enthusiasts among them—is as eclectic as it is lengthy. But public performance is not a prerequisite. Visual artists display work there; last fall, a movie crew was using the building. “We average 25 to 30-plus events a month. It’s nonstop,” says founder Kyle Edwards, the architect of what is both a hub and an incubator; a shared space that beckons “dreamers, contributors and creatives” to Downtown Allentown.

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Edwards schedules the shows, designs the flyers for them and fine-tunes the everchanging aesthetic of the place. “You can come to every single event all month long and not have the same experience twice,” he says. “It’s always different, whether it’s the stage setup, the lighting, the smell, I hit all the senses.” Edwards once thought he’d become a different kind of architect—the kind that designs buildings—but instead ended up as a crusader for all things creative in his hometown. “I needed a playground. I needed a space to create and do cool things. It turns out other people need it as well,” he says. inkwell. is just one of his passion projects. Another is a mural program that brings Lehigh Valley students into Edwards’ circle as collaborators; they work together on coming up with a design and then bring that design to life, one brushstroke at a time. He has a seven-step method that makes the process accessible to even those with little experience wielding a paintbrush. As of November, Edwards had worked on projects with nine different schools. He’s seen students blossom during the process; perhaps the headphones come off, or new conversations are struck between peers who previously never paid any attention to each other. “I just innately understand the value of art and painting and how it takes you to a different place,” Edwards says. While Edwards was always drawn to the arts—“I was the kid in the back of class that was always getting caught doodling,” he says—he didn’t realize how much he needed the arts until he was a young man. The death of his sister, Bernadette Edwards, from cancer in 2012 rocked his world. “I went through those stages of grief, kind of got stuck in a depression and in a way, to save myself, I turned to art,” Edwards says. He started drawing and painting on canvases, and when he ran out of those and couldn’t afford to buy more, he used whatever he could find: shirts, shoes, hoodies. “That sort of birthed an apparel line, naturally and organically,” says Edwards. It also gave rise to a brand: a true l.o.v.e story llc, with “love” as an acronym for “looking on to victory every day.” Still, art was relegated to the background for many years; Edwards and his wife, Gabriella, had two young children, Maya and Messiah, to support. Bills had to be paid. Edwards took jobs as a warehouse


I just innately understand the value of art and painting and how it takes you to a different place.

manager and a fine-dining server while he worked on expanding his apparel line. In 2019, he received his first mural commission from Saucony Creek Brewing in Kutztown, an interactive piece that invited customers to contribute to a large, paint-splattered company logo. Word began to spread that Edwards had a knack for large-scale pieces. Later that same year, the Philadelphia Eagles hired him and Whitehall artist Justin Klement to paint a giant pair of wings as part of a mural at Lincoln Financial Field. They followed that up with a second mural in 2023 (also featuring a massive pair of eagle wings) ahead of a playoff game against the New York Giants. Edwards, a lifelong Eagles fan, calls the commissions a dream come true. In between those projects at the Linc there was a global health pandemic and a reckoning for Edwards; the former inspired the latter. “COVID reminded me of my mortality and that if I’m going to die, which I will, I better get to work on what [God] sent me here to do,” Edwards says. Edwards became a full-time artist in 2020 and now has nearly four dozen murals to his credit. In the Lehigh Valley, his work can be seen inside several businesses, including Lashes By Gab in Center Valley, Lu Taqueria restaurant in Bethlehem and the car dealership AutoProved in Allentown. In 2024, Edwards was again walloped by a personal tragedy that would serve as another reminder of why he needs art in his life. He was working on an outdoor installation in the 1000 block of Hamilton

Street in Allentown—a collaboration with the German artist Pau Quintanajornet— when he learned that his brother, William Edwards, had died. “I broke down for a moment. Put my headphones back in. Got back to work. And I heard my brother’s voice, clear as day, say, ‘Use it.’ And I’ve been doing that ever since,” Edwards says. In addition to running inkwell. and his mural program, Edwards has his own solo art projects on the side. He also started a running club that meets weekly, and he serves as the vice chair of the Allentown Arts Commission while being an active member of the Downtown Allentown Business Alliance and the William Allen Arts Alliance. Edwards isn’t exaggerating when he says he works every day. There’s a part of him that can’t help it. He explains it like this: “I like to create as much as possible. I feel like if I don’t execute an idea, I quite literally get headaches. It keeps me up at night. I get nauseous. I feel like when I act on something, there’s two more waiting to come out.” One of those inner thoughts that nags him is what lies ahead for his hometown. “I think it’s a unique time in the city of Allentown’s history, and I feel that I’m going to play a pivotal role in the direction that we’re headed as a city,” Edwards says. “I’m plugged into a lot of scenes, and it dawned on me recently that we’re all speaking the same language. We’re just not speaking to each other. So I believe I’m that conduit.” One project on his plate for 2026 is a series of murals marking America’s 250th birthday. He’ll be working on separate

but interconnected paintings in Easton, Bethlehem and Allentown. The way he sees it, Easton and Bethlehem already have clear identities. Allentown is still figuring it out. But Edwards has some clarity on the matter. “Arts and entertainment, I think, is our identity, and a lot of my efforts are geared towards strengthening that argument for our city,” he says. Edwards grew up on Allentown’s south side. He graduated from Dieruff High School. He has fond memories of hanging out on Hamilton Street with his friends. Now, things have changed, he says—some for better, some for worse. But he’s optimistic about the future. “Like anything else, there’s going to be some issues along the way,” he says. “But all in all, I’m excited for what’s going to happen to the city of Allentown. I really believe it’s going to be almost like a miniNashville kind of vibe down here soon enough, three to five years. That’s where I think we’re at.” Edwards often sports the same T-shirts he sells as part of his apparel line. They have motivational expressions printed across the chest, simple white letters on a black background. “Less talk. More walk,” is one example. “Live fully. Die empty,” is another. It’s his not-so-subtle way of saying, get moving. Make it happen. He finds these sayings helpful as he navigates his sometimes chaotic day-to-day: “They help me to live more mindfully and just be aware that, you know, I’m in this thing and I have to complete my assignment.”

atruelovestoryllc.com L E H I G H VA L L E Y S T Y L E . C O M : F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6

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5 THINGS CIGARS 3. INTERNATIONAL

535 Main St. & 4078 Nazareth Pike, Bethlehem cigarsinternational.com

This massive retailer has brick-and-mortar locations in its home base, Bethlehem; you can’t miss the spot wafting its fragrance onto Main Street, a great place for shoppers to deposit their uninterested parties for a while. Nazareth Pike’s location (more of a destination in itself) also offers a lounge along with a superstore’s inventory.

Cigar Lounges BY D A I S Y W IL L I S | PHO T O BY M A RC O M AY ER / A DOBE S T OC K

The lighting: dim. The air: hazy. The flavors: complex. And at the heart of a great cigar lounge experience, camaraderie and relaxation with fellow brothers and sisters of the leaf. If you’re looking to add a tradition to your life or find a new favorite cigar, check out one of these dens of decompression and put some smoke in the air.

1. LEGENDS CIGAR BAR 2. LEAF CIGAR BAR 154 Northampton St., Easton | legendcigarbar.com

Sleek, chic and well-ventilated, this Easton spot is the creation of Larry Holmes, Jr., son of the local legend, bringing his 20-year cigar habit back home. Members have access to a second luxury lounge where they can store their own cigar collection, but any visitor can enjoy the full bar and live jazz with a good cigar.

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90 Mort Dr., Easton | leafcigarbar.com

Famous Smoke Shop and, around the corner, Leaf Cigar Bar has a long and storied history starting in 1930s Manhattan. Now it’s a hangout with sports on the TV, beer and liquor flowing, and a huge retail space for your perusal. On-site barbecue provides a menu of brisket, tacos and satisfying starters that bring a smokiness of their own.

4.

THE WOODEN MATCH 61 W. Lehigh St., Bethlehem thewoodenmatch.com

Reanimating an ornate old train station, this restaurant is especially peak during sitting-outside weather (unofficially Matchplatz during Musikfest), but all year round there’s live music, craft beer and cocktails, and upscale pub grub. Of course, you’re here for the cigars, which perfume the air as fellow aficionados relax and revel in the atmosphere.

5.

GILBERTSVILLE CIGAR FACTORY 1237 E. Philadelphia Ave., Gilbertsville gilbertsvillecigarfactory.com

Gilbertsville Cigar Factory is admittedly a hike from the Valley, but this lounge is in some ways what other cigar bars aspire to be. Family-owned and hunkered down in a historic cigar factory, the selection specializes in smaller artisan makers offered with knowledgeable advice. The gleaming pipe collection may turn your head to another mode of smoking!


SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

PROFILES: BUSINESS MILESTONES

PHOTO COURTESY GROSS McGINLEY LLP

SAMUEL E. COHEN Deputy Managing Partner Gross McGinley LLP

Samuel E. Cohen focuses his practice on commercial litigation, employment litigation, and business disputes. His honest and straightforward style has resulted in building long-term relationships with his clients.

33 S. 7 th St., Allentown 610.820.5450 | grossmcginley.com

Spend an afternoon at a Phantoms game with Samuel E. Cohen and it quickly becomes clear why clients, colleagues and community leaders gravitate toward him. Approachable and unpretentious, Sam possesses the kind of razor-sharp analytical mind that is well suited for high-stakes situations. In the courtroom, he is known for his precise advocacy and strategic thinking; outside of it, he is the person who remembers details and quietly helps others succeed. As a Deputy Managing Partner and Co-Chair of Gross McGinley’s Litigation Practice Group, Sam focuses his practice on commercial and employment litigation, business disputes and alternative dispute resolution, representing clients across industries throughout the Lehigh Valley and Eastern Pennsylvania. A Lehigh Valley native, Sam was recently appointed to serve as the Solicitor for Lehigh County after serving as an Assistant Solicitor for the County for over five years. Away from the office, Sam is an avid sports fan and devoted supporter of the Lehigh Valley Phantoms and IronPigs, and a golfer whose competitive streak shows up on the course as much as it does in court. His deep local roots and relationships make him a natural connector between the region’s business, municipal and nonprofit sectors. As Gross McGinley celebrates 50 years of serving Eastern Pennsylvania, Sam plays a key role in guiding the firm’s next chapter, helping shape strategy, mentoring rising attorneys and championing a collaborative, client-first culture. His leadership ensures that the values that built Gross McGinley over the past five decades will continue to drive its success for the next 50 years and beyond. L E H I G H VA L L E Y S T Y L E . C O M : F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

PROFILES: BUSINESS MILESTONES

BETHLEHEM COUNSELING ASSOCIATES The Journey to Better Mental Health Starts Here

Celebrating 40 years in the Bethlehem community, Bethlehem Counseling Associates has provided compassionate, down-to-earth counseling close to home. Built on trust and local clinicians, the practice remains committed to emotional wellness—strengthening the community one conversation at a time.

PHOTO COURTESY BETHLEHEM COUNSELING ASSOCIATES

Bethlehem Counseling Associates is a professional counseling practice dedicated to supporting individuals, couples, and families through life’s challenges. Proudly celebrating 40 years in the Bethlehem community, this trusted private practice has spent four decades walking alongside neighbors, families, and people of all ages. The practice provides a compassionate, confidential, and down-to-earth environment where clients can explore concerns, strengthen relationships, and develop practical coping skills close to home. Using a client-centered approach, Bethlehem Counseling Associates integrates evidence-based therapeutic methods tailored to each person’s unique needs and goals. Services address anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues, life transitions, and personal growth. Built on relationships, trust, and dedicated local clinicians, the practice emphasizes collaboration, respect, and emotional safety. This milestone reflects a lasting commitment to emotional wellness and strengthening the community—one person, one conversation at a time— while helping clients build resilience, gain insight, and move forward with confidence.

2005 City Line Rd. Suite 300, Bethlehem | 610.865.8177 | bcamentalhealth.com

KLECKNER & SONS “Service Is Our Most Important Product”

575 Chestnut St., Emmaus | 610.965.9851 2177 MacArthur Rd., Whitehall | 610.433.4202 | klecknerandsons.com

40 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6 : L E H I G H VA L L E Y S T Y L E . C O M

Doreen Cantalini, center, with Kleckner’s team members Nadia Pletz and William Alexander.

PHOTO COURTESY KLECKER & SONS

Kleckner and Sons Appliances, now celebrating their 81st anniversary, was originally founded by Allen Kleckner, his son Roy Kleckner and his son-in-law, Joseph George. The entrepreneurs opened their first store location on Main Street in Egypt in 1945. Within several years, they expanded to a new location on MacArthur Road in Whitehall. In the 1970s, proprietorship changed hands to the sons of Joseph George: Donald and Dale George. Present day, Kleckner’s is operating under the family’s fourth generation: Doreen Cantalini and Todd George, the great-grandchildren of Allen Kleckner. Kleckner’s continues to grow, as other stores come and go. Their educated sales personnel, highly trained service technicians and equally skilled delivery and installation teams distinguish them from their competitors. Their knowledge and experience consistently prove why they are considered “The Leader” in appliances in the Lehigh Valley. With two convenient locations, consumers are able to find a vast selection of namebrand appliances, televisions, Catnapper recliners and more. In addition, their Emmaus location showcases a fully functioning Monogram kitchen to help customers envision a modern-day cooking area. Most of all, customers will find impeccable customer care, because service is their most important product.


SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

PROFILES: BUSINESS MILESTONES

RICH MAR FLORIST

Award-Winning Florals Since 1955

1708 Tilghman St., Allentown 749 Mill St., Allentown 2407 Easton Ave., Bethlehem 610.437.5588 | richmarflorist.com

RICK REPASH / REPASH STUDIO

Seventy years in any business is quite an achievement, but seventy years of flowers represents lifetimes of arrangements and blooms. Rich Mar Florist had the humblest of beginnings in the basement of a townhouse on Jordan Street in Allentown. Through many years and the efforts of many hard-working family members, Rich Mar has hit the milestone of seventy years in business. The company currently boasts its third and fourth generation of Morrisseys: father Richard J. and son Jonathan are at the helm. What a journey the company has taken over the past seven decades—not only surviving the tests of time, but building a legacy. From the basement of that townhouse to providing flowers for world-class events like the U.S. Open, the Breeders Cup, the INDYCAR Championship and many Division I college athletic programs, the Rich Mar story continues to be written. Where will they end up next? The sky is the limit! “My grandfather, Richard P., had this great vision so many years ago. He wanted to build a brand where anyone—regardless of budget—could have the best experience. It was simple business practices, combined with hard work, that got us to seventy!” –JONATHAN MORRISSEY, PRESIDENT

HOCUS POCUS CLEANING Tidy Space, Peaceful Mind, Magical Life Over the past ten years, Hocus Pocus Cleaning has grown from a one-person operation into a 26-employee company serving the Lehigh Valley. Led by Rosie Selvaggio, the business now includes Toto’s Pet Care and was recently named Pennsylvania Small Business of the Year.

VALOR & VINE PHOTOGRAPHY

Founded in 2016, Hocus Pocus Cleaning began as a one-person operation built on grit, consistency and a strong commitment to service. Under Rosie Selvaggio’s leadership, the company has evolved into a dynamic organization that now includes Toto’s Pet Care and a growing team of 26 employees across the Lehigh Valley. Selvaggio’s growth as a business owner has been defined by intentional shifts—from doing every role herself to building systems, trusting teams and leading with clarity. That evolution has resulted not only in measurable growth, but in meaningful recognition. Since 2022, the company has earned multiple local and regional awards, most recently being named Pennsylvania Small Business of the Year by the PA Chamber. Today, Selvaggio’s leadership emphasizes sustainability, accountability and long-term impact. The success of Hocus Pocus Cleaning reflects a commitment to working smarter, evolving with purpose and building a business that supports both its clients and its people.

MEEZ KONZEPTZ

Serving the Greater Lehigh Valley | 484.554.3218 | hocuspocuscleaningservices.com L E H I G H VA L L E Y S T Y L E . C O M : F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6

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GUYS’ GUIDE

to the Lehigh Valley

The

Where everyday Joes eat, drink and play. By Heather Mayer Irvine Lehigh Valley Style spoke with five guys from across the Valley to find out their go-to spots for dining, drinking, fun and self-care. And no, it’s not all taverns and axe-throwing.

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Meet Franco Abbot

Eat

Abbot enjoys the oxtail from D&S Caribbean Kitchen. “I found it randomly,” Abbot says. “I really wanted oxtail, and the closest place was D&S… It’s so hot and fresh.” Abbot also frequents “the usuals,” as he puts it: Apollo Grill, Zest, Fiamma Italian Grill and Anatolian Kitchen.

Drink

A 38-year-old Bethlehem two-time girl dad and lead software analyst who prides himself on finding off-thebeaten-path places to eat and dance

To unwind, Abbot likes to get together with fellow neighborhood dads and sip whiskey. His top pick? Tomboy from Social Still. “I just love it, the crispness,” he says. In another happenstance encounter, Abbot discovered Xplorer Spirits, owned by a man from Tanzania, which borders Abbot’s home country of Kenya. “I was tasting a spirit called Kilimanjaro at a local apple farm and wondering why it was called that,” Abbot says. He visited the shop in Allentown and started speaking Swahili with the owner—a bond forged—over their shared language and the distillery’s peanut butter whiskey.

Fun

Every month, Abbot leads Ecstatic Dance at The Yoga Loft in Bethlehem, owned by his wife, Rachel. “Everything I do is dance-related,” he says. “I crave it so much and get so little of it.” Ecstatic dance offers a judgment-free space to “move, release and reconnect with yourself,” according to The Yoga Loft. And, in true Abbot fashion, it builds community.

Abbot also frequents Afrodance LV, which hosts monthly dance sessions at various spaces in the Lehigh Valley. Abbot starts to compare it to Zumba but says that’s not quite right. “It’s choreographed African dance to African music.” In the winter months, Abbot heads to Blue Mountain for snowboarding.

Date Night

After dinner at Apollo Grill or Zest, Abbot and his wife love to dance at the Puerto Rican Beneficial Society on the Southside of Bethlehem. “I found this place walking from Musikfest one summer and I hear music,” he says. He knocked on the door and tentatively asked if he could come in. “The music was pouring out,” he says. He fell in love with the place on the spot.

Self-Care

Abbot gets his hair cut at Eric’s Barbershop on Willow Park Road in Bethlehem. Eric, he says, cuts his hair the same way his previous barber did, but it takes a third of the time. “It’s a very small shop that does very good work,” he says. As for clothing? Abbot laughs. He’ll go to the Lehigh Valley Mall, but ends up at Battlestar, shooting airsoft pellets, and comes home empty-handed. “You’ll have to ask Rachel.”

Family Fun

Local parks are a top pick for Abbot and his kids, but when the weather turns, he heads to Sky Zone Trampoline Park.

L E H I G H VA L L E Y S T Y L E . C O M : F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6

43


Meet

Elliot Tracey A 51-year-old small-business owner and father of two teens who enjoys the simple life and an ice-cold Miller Lite

Alison Conklin Photography

Eat

A rotating list of favorites: Tre Scalini for date night, Orizaba for Mexican-Costa Rican fusion, Pat’s Pizza & Bistro for quick ’n easy, Pints and Pies for sports with his buddies, The Clubhouse Grille during golf season and Machs Gute Pub and Grille and OneThird to support other small businesses. “I invest in Bethlehem,” he says.

Drink

“Pints and Pies serves the coldest Miller Lites,” Tracey says. And he enjoys the espresso martini at Apollo Grill.

44 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6 : L E H I G H VA L L E Y S T Y L E . C O M

Fun

Tracey says he and his boys are aspiring golfers, frequenting the public Bethlehem Golf Club and driving range, Lucky Strokes driving range, and in inclement weather, The Art of Flight where he can play Pebble Beach virtually. Tracey also enjoys outdoor excursions at Jacobsburg Environmental Education Center. “When I have free time, I try to be very intentional with it,” he says, which includes travel outside of the Lehigh Valley and the country.

Date Night

Tracey and his wife head to Tre Scalini for date night—it’s at the top of their list—with Melt as a solid second choice. From there, they might check out cocktails at Thyme Rooftop Grille in Easton.

Self-Care

Tracey sees stylist Yong at Gloss in Bethlehem for his hair, and he swears by Amato Family Chiropractic. “He’ll do adjustments to help me feel good,” Tracey says. To decompress, Tracey might walk a golf course at night. “I’m not very extravagant.”


Meet

Michael Pierce

A 64-year-old animal lover and maintenance guy for the Allentown School District who is all about a good wine festival

Drink

Best spicy margarita? Torre, Pierce says. And for a “sip and savor” drink, Pierce loves a brown butter old-fashioned from Chop House at Wind Creek in Bethlehem.

Fun

These days, instead of attending lots of wine festivals, he saves up for a big one: the Kalahari Food & (Not Just) Wine Festival. “There is food and booze all over the place,” he says. In the past, Pierce and his sister have attended the

Kalahari Thanksgiving buffet, the Christmas buffet and most recently, they tried the New Year’s Eve buffet. Pierce also likes to fish in local creeks and rivers, including in the Little Lehigh Parkway, and wandering around down at the ArtsQuest campus with his dogs. There’s always something going on, he says.

A Night Out with Friends

Pierce and his friends frequent the Allentown Fairgrounds Farmers Market for a variety of food trucks, including S&D SOULicious Cuisine and Kou Kitchen. For a romantic night out, Pierce loves blue, and more recently, Thirsty Turtle Tavern.

Self-Care

When Pierce is looking for a new piece of stainless-steel jewelry, he visits the Allentown Fairgrounds Farmers Market. “I was surprised, but they have some nice stuff over there.”

Photo by Vlad Image Studio

Eat

“There are so many places, it’s crazy,” Pierce says. When he first moved to the Lehigh Valley in the ’80s, Pierce says the pickings were slim, but not today. For a special occasion, he’ll visit Top Cut at the Promenade. Other favorites include Fiamma Italian Grill, The Shelby, Apollo Grill, Three OAK, White Orchids and 3rd and Ferry.


Meet Jeff

Warren

A 48-year-old Northampton County Commissioner, sports podcaster and dad of teenage twin girls who has a soft spot for family-owned restaurants

Eat

If it’s a Lehigh Valley familyowned restaurant, count Warren in. He’s a regular at Mitzi’s Table, but a close second is Smile Cafe, which has an amazing breakfast, he says. “I can eat breakfast any time of day.” Warren, who was born and raised in Easton, also frequents Lutzi’s Restaurant, a familyowned and -operated Italian restaurant.

Drink

When he’s not hanging out with his neighbors, Warren can’t say no to a Lehigh Valley sports bar; he is, after all, the podcast host of the Philadelphia Sports Table. “If I’m going out to grab a beer, it’s going to be at a sports bar,” he says, mentioning Big Woody’s and Dubs on 5th .

Fun

Warren’s for-pleasure activities vary by season. He and his family make it a point to support local business and events, whether that’s Christkindlmarkt in Bethlehem during the holidays, a concert at the PPL Center or an IronPigs game at CocaCola Park.

46 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6 : L E H I G H VA L L E Y S T Y L E . C O M

Date Night

“Even though my wife and I were both born and raised in the region, we still haven’t been to every restaurant,” Warren says. They like to explore new places (and visit their old haunts like Mama Nina’s) and attend comedy shows.

Self-Care

Every four weeks for the past fifteen years, Warren has gotten his hair cut at Shear Ambition in Nazareth. And to help decompress, he’ll visit Bobbie Colondo Therapeutic Massage. Warren also works with registered dietitian Jacqui Jarrett of Advantage Nutrition & Wellness. “Nobody’s perfect, and we all have room for selfimprovement,” Warren says.


Meet

Paul Kita

A 40-year-old editor and dad of two who finds food shopping incredibly relaxing—even with the kids

Kita is the author of not one but two cookbooks, so he knows something about food. Every year, Kita and his wife vote on a new best restaurant in the Lehigh Valley, and the 2025 accolade went to Rosa Blanca in Downtown Allentown. “If I could order a whole bowl of the queso frito and live with myself after, I would do it,” Kita says. Kita, a lifelong Lehigh Valley man, says the best old restaurant goes to Yocco’s, specifically its cheesesteaks. “You have to grow up in the Lehigh Valley to appreciate Yocco’s,” he says. “It has to be in your bloodstream.” And the cheesesteak is not Philly-style: It uses Yocco’s chili sauce, pickles, American cheese, hot peppers and sautéed onions.

Drink

Wishful Thinking Brewing Co. is “doing amazing things with lagers,” Kita says. Currently, their To the Woods smoked lager is at the top of Kita’s beer list. “I enjoy a mug or two with one of their Detroit-style pizzas for lunch.” Which means Kita is taking a post-lunch nap.

Fun

“Is it weird that I find food shopping relaxing?” Kita says. (Which he does, even when shopping with kids.) “Being

surrounded by food is my weighted blanket.” He frequents the Allentown Wegmans, the Allentown

Fairgrounds Farmers Market— where he eats Cooper Sharp cheese out of the bag, dipping it into a jar of mustard—the Emmaus Farmers’ Market and “spending way too much time” at the Easton Public Market.

Date Night

The Kitas stick close to home on date night, which means a “nottoo-fussy” dinner in Allentown, like La Placita or Sumo. They’ll then head to Moxy Allentown Downtown for a drink and maybe a show at Archer Music Hall. “Ideally, home in bed by 11, which is three hours past my usual bedtime.”

Self-Care

Up until Kita discovered assembly88 he hated shopping for clothes. “assembly88 is the single-best clothing shop around,” he says, noting its great brands and relaxed vibe. “They have guy customer service,” he says. “If you tell them you’re just looking, they’re not going to bother you again.” He gets his hair cut at the Allentown Fairgrounds Farmers Market (“Shout out to Barry!”), right between a sub shop and a Polish deli. “I do love a leisurely trip to Shangy’s,” he says. “Is that self-care?”

Photo by Christa Neu

Eat


PROFILES: CAUSES IN THE VALLEY

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

ARTSQUEST

Providing access to art, culture and educational programs for the diverse residents of the Lehigh Valley and others who seek access to our community

High HOME Quality

Mission-focused, ArtsQuest has its eye on the future with a brand-new, state-of-the-art Cultural Center slated to be built in 2025 in addition to the renovation of the historic Turn & Grind Shop, located next to the Bethlehem Visitor Center on the SteelStacks campus. The Cultural Center will serve as a visible and creative gateway to Bethlehem’s SouthSide; provide much needed space, new programs and advanced technology that will double the number of students and families ArtsQuest currently serves; A family-owned business with OV E R 40 Y E A R S implement new partnerships as a Communications Career of experience, we pridewith ourselves on using Pathway Program the BASD; and further foster only the best materialsand to tourism deliver across the Lehigh economic development Valley, which willwithout improvethe property values and further outstanding results overhead. civic pride. The Turn & Grind Shop will allow ArtsQuest to significantly expand its private event space to further accommodate corporate events, weddings, proms and additional functions. Its beautiful and historical location and structure will significantly further travel and tourism to the Lehigh Valley.

without the cost

STYLE For home inspiration and much more, visit lehighvalleystyle.com

ArtsQuest is a nonprofit with a mission of providing access to the arts for all. Its programs reach more than 1.9 million people annually. Fundraising events, sponsors and community partners allow ArtsQuest to provide over

Wood and Laminate Doors

half of its programming free to the public with scholarships available for individuals facing financial hardship.

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25 W. 3 610.865.3988 St., Bethlehem | 610.332.1300 | artsquest.org Request an estimate: billstofanak.com rd

HAVEN HOUSE: RESTORING HOPE, RENEWING KEEPINGLIVES

By creating a stigma-free community in which those with barriers can thrive towards independence and accomplishment

PEOPLE WARM

The need for community-based mental health services from organizations like Haven House has grown post-pandemic. Looking in from the outside, one wouldn’t know that over 70 staff members are working to keep seven distinct programs and Your destination to complete your fireplace upgrade. countless partnerships running to support around Our knowledgeable sales staff is here to 3,000 individuals in Lehigh and Northampton help guide you through the process. counties. Haven House continually searches for opportunities to expand and improve access to Kring’snew offers sales, service and installation of gas, services to fulfill their mission. In addition, wood, and pellet fireplaces, stoves and inserts. Haven House takes every opportunity to further educate the public around mental health to foster a stigmafree environment. This year, Haven House plans to resume poverty simulations, grow group therapy options and host a gala-type event, in order to reach new and different audiences regarding community mental health. Please follow them on Facebook or subscribe to their newsletter to avoid missing any of www.KringsOnline.com their exciting updates.

S I N C E 1 9 82

Members of the Haven House leadership team

Haven House is committed to empowering individuals to overcome barriers in their lives and provide them with support and an opportunity to reach their full potential. To support Haven House, or to learn more about their different programs, visit haven-house.com.

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610.224.5050

1411 Union Blvd. 4405 Pennsylvania Dr., Schnecksville Allentown 834 Route 100 North, Bechtelsville 610.433.6181 385 E Roseville Rd., Lancaster haven-house.com

HIC# PA 065759


PROFILES: CAUSES IN THE VALLEY

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

ARTSQUEST WHERE QUALITY SPEAKS FOR ITSELF

Providing access to art, culture and educational programs for the diverse residents of the Lehigh Valley and others who seek access to our community

BEFORE

AFTER

Mission-focused, ArtsQuest has its eye on the future with a brand-new, state-of-the-art Cultural Center slated to be built in 2025 in addition to the renovation of the historic Turn & Grind Shop, located next to the Bethlehem Visitor Center on the SteelStacks campus. The Cultural Center will serve as a visible and creative gateway to Bethlehem’s SouthSide; provide much needed space, new programs and advanced technology that will double the number of students and families ArtsQuest currently serves; implement new partnerships as a Communications Career Pathway Program with the BASD; and further foster economic development and tourism across the Lehigh Valley, which will improve property values and further civic pride. The Turn & Grind Shop will allow ArtsQuest to significantly expand its private event space to further accommodate corporate events, weddings, proms and additional functions. Its beautiful and historical location and structure will significantly further travel and tourism to the Lehigh Valley.

A LEHIGH VALLEY COMPANY WITH OVER 20 YEARS EXPERIENCE INTERIOR & EXTERIOR PAINTING SERVICES • EPOXY FLOORS ArtsQuest isCUSTOM a nonprofit with a mission of providing access to the arts all. Its programs reach more than 1.9 MOLDING INSTALLATIONS & for RESIDENTIAL RENOVATIONS million people annually.FOCAL FundraisingACCENT events, sponsors and community partners allow ArtsQuest WALLS to provide over WALLS / GEOMETRIC ACCENT half of its programming free to the public with scholarships available for individuals facing financial hardship. NOW HIRING 610.248.2817 ROCHEPAINTING.COM

25 W. 3 rd St., Bethlehem | 610.332.1300 | artsquest.org

HAVEN HOUSE: RESTORING HOPE, RENEWING LIVES The Invisible Threat By creating a stigma-free community in which those with barriers can thrive towards independence and accomplishment Beneath Your Home... The need for community-based mental health services from organizations like Haven House has grown post-pandemic. Looking in from the outside, one wouldn’t know that over 70 staff members are working to keep seven distinct programs and countless partnerships running to support around Protect your home’s air — and your family’s health — from radon, 3,000 individuals in Lehigh and Northampton the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers. counties. Haven House continually searches for new opportunities to expand access to Radon is a naturally-occurring gas that can seep into your home throughand the improve foundation. Prolonged exposure poses a serious risk to your family’s health. services to fulfill their mission. In addition, Haven House takes every opportunity further Our custom radon mitigation systems quietly safeguard your home and are to tested to educate the public around mental health to foster a stigmaensure long-term protection for your peace of mind. free environment. This year, Haven House plans to resume poverty simulations, grow group therapy options and host a gala-type event, in order to reach new and different audiences regarding community mental health. Please follow them on Facebook or DESIGNED FOR PROFESSIONAL CLEANER, INSTALLATION SAFER AIR Members of the Haven House leadership team THE HOME subscribe to their newsletter to avoid missing any of their exciting updates.

Lasting Protection Above It.

Request your personalized quote today:

610.810.1484

Haven House is committed to empowering individuals to overcome barriers in their lives

1411 Union Blvd. Allentown 610.433.6181 Haven House, or to learn more about their different programs, visit haven-house.com. lehighradonsolutions.com haven-house.com

and provide them with support and an opportunity to reach their full potential. To support

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Haven House delivers compassionate, comprehensive mental health support to individuals experiencing a wide range of life challenges, including aging-related concerns, reentry from incarceration and everyday mental health needs. Through seven specialized programs, the organization addresses both clinical and social determinants of well-being. The Outpatient Program provides individualized therapy, medication management and nursing services designed to meet each client’s unique needs. Psychiatric Rehabilitative Services offer both onsite and mobile support for individuals living with severe and persistent mental illness, with a focus on fostering independent living skills and meaningful community participation. At Gracedale Nursing Home, the Mental Health and Aging Program enhances care for residents managing mental health conditions within a long-term care setting. The Wellness Recovery Team delivers community-based services for individuals coping with serious mental illness in combination with chronic physical health conditions. The RISE Program supports continuity of care for individuals transitioning from jail, while the STARTS Program offers housing assistance and reentry support for individuals released from incarceration who are living with mental illness. In addition, the Community Food Pantry addresses food insecurity and other basic needs, further supporting overall stability and recovery. Additional information about Haven House and its programs is available on the organization’s Facebook page.

PHOTO COURTESY HAVEN HOUSE

HAVEN HOUSE

Haven House is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit community based mental health organization providing services to approximately 3000 Lehigh Valley residents. Their mission: to empower individuals to overcome barriers in their lives, provide them with support and an opportunity to reach their full potential.

1411 Union Blvd., Allentown | 610.433.6181 | haven-house.com

COMMUNITIES IN SCHOOLS OF EASTERN PENNSYLVANIA

Thriving students. Engaged families. Supported schools. CIS removes barriers that prevent students from succeeding. Through hands-on support, CIS staff empowered more than 41,000 students across Eastern Pennsylvania last year to remain in school and persevere through academic, behavioral, and social-emotional challenges.

Communities In Schools of Eastern PA (CIS) builds strong 1:1 relationships between trained site coordinators and students across 14 school districts in six counties throughout Eastern Pennsylvania. CIS addresses the often-misunderstood reasons students miss school—challenges rooted not in motivation, but in missing support and resources. Students may face barriers such as safety concerns, transportation issues, mental or physical health needs, food insecurity, lack of clean clothing or family responsibilities like childcare or work. By removing these barriers and providing individualized guidance, CIS helps more than 41,000 at-risk students stay engaged, overcome social-emotional and behavioral challenges and reach graduation. When CIS is present in schools, 99 percent of students stay in school.

739 N. 12 th St., Allentown | 484.834.8830 | ciseasternpa.org

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PHOTO COURTESY COMMUNITIES IN SCHOOLS OF EASTERN PENNSYLVANIA

PROFILES: CAUSES IN THE VALLEY

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION


SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

PROFILES: CAUSES IN THE VALLEY

PHOTO COURTESY ALLENTOWN RESCUE MISSION

ALLENTOWN RESCUE MISSION Rescue, Rehabilitate and Restore Men Experiencing Homelessness The Allentown Rescue Mission is the largest men’s homeless shelter in the Greater Lehigh Valley, providing a clear pathway from crisis to independence for vulnerable men in the community. As the Mission continues to recognize its 125th anniversary in 2026, it remains committed to addressing both the immediate needs and root causes of homelessness through three comprehensive programs. The Emergency Shelter meets critical, immediate needs by providing a safe place to sleep, nutritious meals, warm showers, clean clothing, on-site medical care and a stable environment where men can begin to regain hope. The Transformation Program is an optional eight-week program available to Emergency Shelter guests who are ready to change the direction of their lives. Through life-skills training, workforce development and Bible-based studies, participants build a strong foundation for lasting personal growth and stability. Graduates of the Transformation Program are offered immediate transitional employment through the Clean Team Workforce, LLC, allowing them to earn income, build work experience and save for permanent housing. Many participants go on to secure outside employment, obtain housing and fully regain their independence. With the faithful support of the Greater Lehigh Valley, the Allentown Rescue Mission will continue to rescue, rehabilitate and restore men like Thomas (pictured above)—a legacy made possible by the generosity of private donors and community partners.

The Allentown Rescue Mission receives no government funding and relies entirely on the generosity of private donors and community supporters. Help change lives by making a financial or in-kind donation and learning more about the Mission’s work. Visit their website and follow them on Facebook and Instagram to get involved.

125 Years 1900-2025

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INFLUENTIAL Meet Joshua, Justin, Dan, John, Rocco and Eric. They’re not the types to toot their own horns (or perhaps sing their own praises, in Dan’s case), so Lehigh Valley Style is happy to do it for them. We’ve selected these six exceptional gentlemen as our 2026 class of Influential Men of the Year. Read on to learn about the many ways they’re putting community before self, personally and professionally, for the benefit of the rest of us. And to them we say, keep on doing what you’re doing, fellas.

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MEN YEAR OF THE

BY AMY UNGER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALISON CONKLIN | ON LOCATION AT CONNEXIONS GALLERY

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THE NOMINATION: “HE SWOOPED RIGHT IN AND TOOK ACTION. HE MADE SURE TO BE PRESENT AND PROVIDE GUIDANCE AT A VERY VALUABLE TIME.” JOHN’S STORY

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Lt. John Leonard has been an Allentown police officer for fifteen years. He takes the community-building part of the job very seriously, especially when it comes to the city’s young people. “Building a relationship with the youth is important because we’re building future leaders,” he says. Leonard is heavily involved with the Allentown Police Athletic League (PAL), which offers a number of mentorship, recreational and educational activities, including a six-week summer youth academy where kids find out about the workings of the police department. Beyond the badge, they’re also learning how to be good citizens and neighbors, which Leonard considers to be a vital lesson. “If we develop community leaders to take on or be knowledgeable in the ongoings of the city, then the police officers won’t need to fill a lot of those roles,” he says. “Something as simple as who’s checking on your senior neighbors, who’s making sure that downed stop signs or burned-out street lights are reported. Those aren’t police issues. But, we’ve lost as a society, not just in Allentown, but we’ve lost some community ownership, and through PAL and our other nonprofits, we want to bring that ownership back.” Leonard also previously served as the Allentown Police Department’s Community Outreach Officer for five years, part of a larger push to build bridges with residents. “This way, we’re not policing our community, we’re policing with our community,” Leonard says. In addition, he’s volunteered with the Syrian Arab American Charity Association’s food bank and has taught GED and citizenship classes at The Literacy Center in Allentown. Coincidentally, the mother of one of his PAL kids was in one of his classes at The Literacy Center and received her US citizenship under his tutelage. “That was really fun to be a small part of that,” Leonard says. And it’s just one example of how he’s making a difference, in and out of his police uniform.


THE NOMINATION: “WHAT SETS JUSTIN APART IS NOT THE NUMBER OF BOARDS OR TITLES HE HOLDS, BUT THE HEART HE BRINGS TO EVERY ROLE.” JUSTIN’S STORY

Justin Keiper got a little bit of side-eye from his parents when he told them, at age 15, that he intended to become a funeral director. He made the decision a few days after attending the funeral of his great-grandmother. His parents encouraged him to think it over, but his mind was made up: “I just really think that I want to do that,” he remembers telling them. “I want to help people, and I want something that’s very meaningful.” Keiper, a Bethlehem native and now a supervisor at Cantelmi Funeral Home in Fountain Hill, has been a licensed funeral director for more than ten years. “It’s rewarding every day,” he says. “I’ve met so many incredible people, heard so many incredible stories.” And those meetings happen during what is obviously an extremely trying time. Keiper makes it his mission to treat each family like it’s his own and plan a service that is unique and memorable, a true testament to the person being grieved. “It’s just all about how you make people feel. They’ll never forget that,” says Keiper. His efforts have not gone unnoticed. Late last year, American Funeral Director magazine named Keiper 2025 runner-up for Funeral Director of the Year. “It really helped to put in perspective everything I do and why. Why I work the long hours, why I do what I do in the community,” he says of the honor. And Keiper does stay busy beyond his work in the funeral home. He has served on a number of boards for local organizations that include the American Heart Association, the Bethlehem Chamber of Commerce, the Cancer Support Community of the Lehigh Valley and Dream Come True. He says he finds his involvement with nonprofits to be personally fulfilling, and also a gateway to establishing lasting personal connections: “A lot of my close friends, I’ve met through events and through these boards, and I’m just so thankful for it all.”

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THE NOMINATION: “[JOSHUA] BUILDS COMMUNITY THROUGH ARTS AND FITNESS… HE’S EVERYWHERE RIGHT NOW. REALLY MOVING THE CULTURE FORWARD.” JOSHUA’S STORY

Joshua Gamble knows all about The Perks of Being Social. That’s not just the name he chose for the group he founded to help juice the local creative industry; it’s also a personal mindset for how he approaches community engagement. Gamble, an East Stroudsburg native who now calls Easton home, describes The Perks of Being Social as a moving network for creative types. Gamble organizes events that serve as parties with a purpose. “So, if we have a photographer and a model that don’t have any work, they could possibly meet each other that night and create a project to benefit each other,” he explains. Gamble, who previously hosted similar events in bigger cities like Boston and New York, said the group fills a void in the Lehigh Valley: “Everybody was kind of secluded when it comes to creating, and I just wanted to put everybody in one space and see what possibilities could come from it.” Running is another form of outreach for Gamble. He is a cofounder of the Artchive Studios Run Club (Artchive is a play on the word archive), which comes together every Sunday on Easton’s Karl Stirner Arts Trail. Gamble is relatively new to the sport and a big proponent of the come-as-you-are mentality. “We welcome all runners,” he says. “You don’t have to be a seasoned runner. You can come out and walk. Mothers come out with their baby strollers. We have a great retention rate.” Gamble is also the brains behind brand campaigns for local businesses, including a collaboration between Easton’s Snkr Box LV and Lafayette College, in which student athletes from the school were models in a photo shoot. The pairing of the two, Gamble says, served as a bridge, “that little connection between the local businesses downtown and the local college.” It was also another opportunity for community connection. “Any way I can be a help and be of service to people, that’s most of my calling right now,” says Gamble.

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JOSHUA GAMBLE


THE NOMINATION: “ROCCO LEADS WITH HEART, INTEGRITY AND VISION, AND HIS EXAMPLE CONTINUES TO INSPIRE ME AND SO MANY OTHERS TO STEP UP AND MAKE A DIFFERENCE.” ROCCO’S STORY

ROCCO ZEGALIA

Rocco Zegalia knows a thing or two about the importance of positive role models. As a teenager, he participated in the Big Brothers Big Sisters program as a little brother. “My big brother at the time gave me some guidance, probably when I needed it most,” Zegalia says. “And I always reflect back on that.” Now, as an adult, the mentee has become the mentor. Zegalia serves as board chair for the Lehigh Valley chapter of Big Brothers Big Sisters, just one of the local nonprofits that gets his time and attention; the American Heart Association (AHA) Lehigh Valley/Berks— where Zegalia is also board chair—is another. There, too, Zegalia feels a personal connection. “My dad passed away very suddenly at age 55 from a heart attack,” he explains. “I just want to give back to [AHA] because they’re doing a lot of great things in terms of CPR classes and just spreading the word about heart health. I think maybe my dad would still be alive today if somebody may have known CPR that was near him.” Zegalia, who lives in Macungie, has a busy day job in the security division of Motorola Solutions, but his advocacy work always remains a top priority. “I’m a veteran; a veteran always looks for a mission, and always looks to be part of a team,” he says. “And I really think that I just always want that mission, and I always want to be striving to make goals and make sure things are going the way they should be, and being a part of a team that’s making a difference.” He’s also quick to single out the people who are in the trenches with him. “I’ve done a lot of fundraising over the last ten or fifteen years, and there’s been a lot of folks that have been instrumental in helping me reach some of those goals,” says Zegalia.

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THE NOMINATION: “HE HAS TOUCHED COUNTLESS LIVES IN HIS ENDEAVORS AND HAS IMPACTED THE COMMUNITY MORE THAN MOST COULD EVEN IMAGINE.” DAN’S STORY

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He’s a fixture at local weddings, receptions, cocktail hours and other special events, working his magic on the ivories with his own twist on everything from Frank Sinatra standards to Billy Joel tunes. Sharing that gift would be enough, but Dan Mies—also known as Dan Mies on the Keys—has given so much more. “Growing up in the Valley here, I was blessed to grow up with a lot of great people around me, so I just want to give back to the local community,” he says. Mies, who first learned to play the piano as a child in elementary school, has spearheaded several fundraisers for nonprofits, including an event at Hotel Bethlehem that raised more than $10,000 for the group Pin Cancer, and another at The Clubhouse Grille in Bethlehem that benefited Bloom for Women. He also volunteers for charity events like Lauren’s Hope, which provides toys for special needs kids for Christmas. What makes those and other initiatives even more impressive is that Mies, while going to bat for so many others, was grappling with a difficult situation of his own. In late 2024, he was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor after suffering a seizure at an event. Mies underwent chemotherapy and radiation, and, “knock on wood, things are good,” he says. Even through those arduous treatments, which are notoriously draining on the body and the soul, Mies never considered slowing down. In fact, the public events were just as beneficial to him as they were to the groups he was supporting. “I tend to feed off of other people, and all that social interaction,” he says. “So, it was just good to be with people and engaged in that way.”


THE NOMINATION: “WHAT MAKES HIM EXCEPTIONAL ISN’T JUST WHAT HE’S ACCOMPLISHED, BUT THE QUIET WAY HE CONTINUES TO LIFT OTHERS UP WHILE MANAGING HIS OWN CHALLENGES. HE’S A STEADY FORCE OF COMPASSION, RESILIENCE AND INTEGRITY.” ERIC’S STORY

Even though he was only 40 years old, Eric Aquino wasn’t surprised when he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2018. He was an EMT for the City of Easton at the time; he also previously worked in a nursing home. His grandmother had battled the disease as well, so Aquino knew the signs and symptoms. When the diagnosis was confirmed, Aquino didn’t succumb to self-pity as others might; instead, he turned his attention to advocacy, after noticing a dearth of resources in the Lehigh Valley. “I quickly realized that if someone with my experience and my background was having trouble finding resources, someone that was just diagnosed and didn’t know anything about the healthcare system would be completely lost and think it’s their fault,” he says. His Gray Strong Foundation aims to fill that void, steering patients and their families toward a wealth of information on everything from support groups to medical tips to event listings for the Parkinson’s community. One of the greatest resources provided by Gray Strong may be Aquino himself, whose unique experience as an EMT and a person with Parkinson’s has turned him into a walking, talking encyclopedia on the subject. In 2023, he traveled to Barcelona, Spain, as an ambassador for the Parkinson’s Foundation. This year, he’ll make the trek to Arizona for the 7th World Parkinson Congress in Phoenix, where he’ll help lead training sessions so the city can ensure it’s prepared to handle the influx of people with Parkinson’s. Aquino also found time to write a book. Project Dopa tells the story of Alex, an EMT with Parkinson’s, who discovers that the disease has granted him immunity to a zombie virus that is rapidly spreading. Aquino wove parts of his own journey into the story, because “it’s about normalizing (Parkinson’s),” he says. “It’s hard to describe it and talk about it. But for Alex, the process that he’s going through, and his realization of having Parkinson’s, that’s a real story. That really happened.”

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INSIDE DISH COZY COMFORT IS ELEVATED AT

Bethlehem Barrel & Drafthouse BY SUSAN GOTTSHALL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALISON CONKLIN

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If it’s February, it must be time for comfort food. When it’s blustery and freezing outside, creamy carb-laden fare warms from the inside, providing the fortitude required to face frigid winter winds. And when comfort food is the order of the day, there’s a perfect place to fill the bill—Bethlehem Barrel & Drafthouse. This restaurant, which opened in The Outlets at Wind Creek in mid-August last year, finds its purpose in hometown comfort, both in spirit and decor as well as food. General manager Krista Winiasz says the eatery’s concept is based on making people feel at home, offering “things that bring people together.” Here, spare decor offers a simple background that allows fellowship to flourish over food and drink. The poured concrete floor lends a contemporary industrial feel to the restaurant that’s just right with the kegs and barrels serving as decorative elements. Iron and wood tables and chairs underscore the contemporary character. Large wall photographs depict playful 1950s bar scenes as well as Bethlehem Steel production, paying homage to steelworkers and tying the restaurant to the history of its place. At the bar, a cocktail-smoking cloche honors the Bethlehem Steel story, too—inside the cloche, smoke pours out through a replica of the stacks. Yes, the fare easily qualifies as comfort food, but, as Winiasz points out, it’s “elevated” comfort food. That means that the Old Bethlehem Crab Cake Sandwich is served with Old Bay rémoulade instead of tartar sauce, and the Churrasco features a Certified Angus Beef New York strip steak. It also means that right next to “Everything” Pretzel Bites on the starters menu, you’ll find


Marrow Two Ways (a longcut marrow bone with balsamic shallots or gremolata, marrow butter and grilled country bread). It also means that everything is made in the restaurant’s kitchen. From salad dressings to sauces, from marinades to the five-hour onions (literally cooked for five hours), “Everything is homemade except the ketchup,” Winiasz says. Executive chef Dave Blackburn comes to Bethlehem Barrel & Drafthouse with a long résumé. A graduate of Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Scottsdale, Arizona (which closed in 2017), he attended an apprenticeship at The Greenbrier in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, following graduation. He has cooked at Hubbard’s Yellowstone Lodge in Emigrant, Montana, and The Gasparilla Inn in Boca Grande, Florida. Locally, he previously worked as sous chef at Saucon Valley Country Club. A member of the American Culinary Federation’s National Culinary Team, Blackburn will compete in the 2028 IKA/Culinary Olympics in Germany. The restaurant’s commitment to homemade fare is perhaps nowhere more apparent than in the pierogies: the tender dough, filled with mashed potatoes and cheddar cheese, is made fresh in the kitchen every day. Sautéed to golden brown, the crispy pasta half-moons are served on a bed of chive sour cream, topped with the succulent five-hour onions and small discs of crisped, smoky kielbasa. It’s a bonanza of texture and rich flavor. Reuben Egg Rolls are inspired. Filled with shredded corned beef, beer-braised sauerkraut, Gruyère and fontina, these rolls are deepfried to a beautiful crispy,

crispy brown, then sliced in half for plating to reveal the goodness inside. Of course, the sauerkraut is a tasty counterpoint to the corned beef (it’s a tried-and-true combination); the cheeses add rich depth and balancing texture. Incorporating homemade Thousand Island dressing as a dipping sauce brings all the flavors of the classic sandwich together. A signature dish, Shrimp and Grits, one of the best renditions I’ve tasted, features beautifully cooked jumbo shrimp—moist and oh-sotender, subtle with flavor. Curled atop a pool of creamy grits surrounded by red-eye gravy, the shrimp shines, promising a taste adventure that it certainly delivers. Pieces of andouille sausage add a chewy bite and a hint of spice and smoke. When it comes to comfort food, it doesn’t get much better than Yankee Pot Roast— another signature dish—and the restaurant’s expression of this dish warms with just the sight of it. Fork-tender beef in its dark caramel-colored sauce with wild mushrooms glistens like a jewel; there’s such depth of complex flavor here, you can see it. What goes better with pot roast in February than the creamy, earthy comfort of pureed potatoes? Roasted carrots, crisped around the edges from their turn in the oven, add sweet texture to the dish. This is food that warms not just your body, but your soul, too. As a flavor finale, Fall Apple Turnovers do not disappoint. The deep-fried, crisped crescents of pastry with apple compote tucked inside have it all—taste, texture and temperature. Served with cider-donut ice cream from Bethlehem’s


INSIDE DISH Batch Microcreamery, the warm turnovers melt across the tongue. And the plate’s foundational layer of pumpkin spice ricotta adds warming notes that round out this dessert’s flavor profile. You might expect a restaurant named Bethlehem Barrel & Drafthouse to have a significant focus on its bar program, and you would be right about that. Guinness, Yuengling Lager and Yuengling Flight are on tap; an additional nine taps rotate selections of small Pennsylvania craft brewers that celebrate what’s local. My sampling of Hellertown’s Lost Tavern’s Gelosto: Raspberry Chip sour ale was fruity, just barely effervescent and so good I want to go back for more. Another good reason to return is the Yuzu Pineapple Margarita. This fruity, refreshing cocktail gets just a touch of heat from a dusting of togarashi on the glass and its rim: the spice hits the palate after the fruit-forward start, then dissolves into lingering warmth. The red seasoning, along with a dried pineapple and fresh lime garnish, makes the drink as attractive as it is tasty. The Double Barrel Espresso Martini is, in a word, elegant. Made with bourbon instead of vodka, this cocktail’s color is deep like the darkest of chocolates. Walnut bitters contribute rich, earthy notes to the drink, which is crowned by a honey and brown sugar rim on the glass that punches up the profile. Garnished ever-so-simply with three coffee beans, this is a cocktail not easily forgotten. “Barrel” in the restaurant’s name hints at another focus of the bar program here— whiskey. There are more than 100 selections from all over the world: about sixty rye whiskeys

and forty bourbon whiskeys. It’s easy to imagine how sipping and sampling and sharing these offerings could bring people together, perhaps on a snowy, wintry day… watching the weather outside and reveling in the warmth inside. When Winiasz says that Bethlehem Barrel & Drafthouse offers “the gift of good food, good drink and good service,” she clearly means it. “We lead with that,” she says. Stop by and see for yourself. When you need some extra warmth on a cold day, this restaurant will be ready and waiting with its comfort extraordinaire.

Bethlehem Barrel & Drafthouse 77 Wind Creek Blvd. Suite 101, Bethlehem The Outlets at Wind Creek | 610.984.1125 bethlehembarrelanddrafthouse.com

HOURS Mon.–Thurs.: 4–10 p.m. Fri. & Sat.: 11 a.m.–12 a.m. Sun.: 10 a.m.–9 p.m. Cost: Starters: $10–$29 Mains: $16–$39 Brunch: $12–$29 Parking: Large parking lot in front of Wind Creek's hotel. Reservations: Recommended but not required.

WHAT TO ORDER Start with the Yuzu Pineapple Margarita: it fires up taste buds for what’s to come. Pierogies: With five-hour onions and dough made fresh daily, who passes on these? Reuben Egg Rolls: All the flavors of the classic sandwich in a crispy egg roll wrapper… a textural triumph. And, of course, Yankee Pot Roast: This dish melts shivers into warm contentment on any frozen February day.


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EAT THIS

BBQ

WAFFLE CONE BY ANGEL A VENNEMANN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MATTHEW CANNON

READY TO TRY IT? Tag @lvstylemag when you do!

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Part of the fun of working with food is turning traditional concepts on their heads. Seasoned ground beef with cheese and lettuce in a bag of Doritos? Boom—walking taco. Burger between two glazed donuts instead of a bun? Don’t tell your cardiologist. Brian Jones, owner of the barbecue food truck You Got Pork’D and its sister business, You Got Cone’D, had some fun of his own when initially crafting his menu. In the spirit of creating a dish that’s not what it seems it should be, he proudly offers the BBQ waffle cone. A classic combination of sweet and savory, this unique, made-to-order menu item starts as a simple waffle cone—the same type you would normally fill with a few scoops of mint chocolate chip. But here’s where we take a hard left turn: the inside of the cone is drizzled with Jones’ Bubba’s Original barbecue sauce. Next, Jones takes his homemade mixture of baked cavatappi, spice and cheese (he calls it Mac n Chee) and blends it with the smoked meat of your choice—brisket, pulled pork or chicken. This delectable combination is loaded into the cone and topped with even more Bubba’s Original sauce. The meat is tender, the mac is cheesy, the sauce is balanced and the cone adds crunch and sweetness. You can’t go wrong. Jones has seen success with You Got Pork’D, first as a food truck and now with space inside Easton’s Leaf Cigar Bar. When an ice cream shop in Wilson went up for sale—a location he’d had his eye on before—he went all in on the cone concept with You Got Cone’D. “People love it once they decide to give it a try,” he says. “Because it is so different, people can be hesitant to try the BBQ waffle cone, but once they do, they can’t wait to try it again with one of our other meats.” You Got Cone’D also offers sweet cones with hard-scooped and soft-serve ice cream and more traditional barbecue offerings like meat platters and sandwiches. Nachos, tacos and mac and cheese bowls featuring Jones’ smoked meats are on the menu as well, and everything is from scratch. “All of our meats and sauces come from [You Got Pork’D],” Jones says. “Everything is homemade, from the sauces to the rubs we use.” Parking is available on the street, in the lot behind the building and across Butler Street at Wilson Area High School.

2300 Butler St., Easton 610.438.1412 | YouGotConeD


WHERE FAMILY BUSINESSES TURN TO GROW STRONGER.

Rooted in Family.

Connected by Purpose.

Bethlehem, PA | compasspt.com | 610.336.0514


IS IN THE Your heart BEST HANDS

“

Minutes matter in heart care. Whether opening a blocked artery or preventing a heart attack, our team is ready with the latest technology and expertise to act fast when it matters most.”— Kimberly J. Wilson, DO At St. Luke’s, our nationally recognized heart and vascular team delivers advanced care with unmatched compassion – because every heartbeat deserves the very best. From complex surgeries to life-saving interventions and routine checkups, our team leads the region in innovation, outcomes, and patient experience. Your heart is too important to settle for anything less. Discover why your heart is in the best hands at St. Luke’s.To learn more, visit sluhn.org/heart or scan the QR code.

1-866-STLUKES | sluhn.org/heart


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