A quintessential Bucks County estate on the outskirts of New Hope. The renovated main house & detached garage with luxe guest suite are surrounded by 12 private acres. Offered for $5,950,000
Tutto Niente
This custom crafted Tudor home & vineyard includes unique touches throughout as well as a stunning panoramic view over 55 acres of big sky & Pocono Mountains. Offered for $3,945,000
Positioned to take full advantage of its environs, this stunning home’s hillside vantage point overlooks the Monocacy Creek and distant vistas through walls of glass in every room. Offered for $899,900
Spring Hill
Spring Hill is a beautiful example of a barn renovation with re-imagined vaulted spaces blended with stunning architectural details, repurposed barn beams, and antique wood. Offered for $4,500,000
Melrose Lane
This 5,700 sqft home is ready to be built to your specifications & could be complete in under a year! Located on an expansive 2 acres surrounded by luxury homes on large lots. Starting at $3,250,000
This romantic hideaway is set amidst 12 acres of verdant forest on a sheltered bluff with mesmerizing views of the Delaware River and pastoral vistas beyond. Offered for $899,000
Molasses Creek Farm
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
Old World Villa
Renovated in 2021 and set on 3 private acres with views over pristine Cooks Creek, this stunning villa is a rare blend of 19th century touches & outstanding modern luxuries. Offered for $1,199,000
Cherry Avenue
Curb appeal, a sizable .4-acre lot, and superior amenities define this impeccably maintained home with 4,900+ sqft of living space on three finished floors. Offered for $799,900
Tricia Vermilya Aesthetics embodies the fusion of medical precision and artistic finesse, offering bespoke beauty and wellness treatments in Easton.
Led by Tricia Vermilya, a Master Aesthetic Injector with over two decades of nursing experience, the clinic provides a sanctuary where clients receive personalized care tailored to their unique aesthetic goals.
Services range from advanced facials and injectables to hormone therapy and weight management, all delivered with a commitment to natural-looking results and holistic well-being.
The brand’s essence lies in empowering individuals to feel confident and rejuvenated, reflecting a dedication to excellence and client-centric care.
Summer Fun
Ask those close to me about my maturity level, and they’ll tell you that I’m just a big kid. I’m 43, but I might as well be about 12. I love finding joy and humor in the simple (and stupid) things, I’m down for silly adventures that could very well lead to public embarrassment and I believe that the best day of the year is the last day of school. Even as an adult, I’ve never lost the sense of the fun and freedom that summer brings. This month, we’re bringing the summer fun to you with plenty of places to eat and visit—we have a collection of day trip itineraries for families, couples and more on pg. 50. For laid-back bites that are sure to please, turn to pg. 56 for a roundup of some of the Lehigh Valley’s hidden (and not-sohidden) culinary gems.
If you’re looking to travel this summer, don’t miss our expert’s vacation planning tips on pg. 29. Before you pack for that trip, make sure that the kids are kitted out in everything they need to look their best with a trip to SonnyMoon Children’s Boutique—more about them on pg. 26. If you’re staying home this summer and you just want somewhere to cool off, we have five places for you on pg. 40. And nothing says summer like ice cream; you’ll want an Atomic Freeze after reading about it on pg. 64.
Don’t miss our conversation with Lehigh Valley with Love’s George Wacker on pg. 37, Janicca Covington’s recipe for chickpea salad on pg. 62, how to work out like a soldier with Mel Nelson on pg. 33 and the winners of our 12th annual Pet Photo Contest on pg. 44, plus more in this edition.
VENNEMANN editor@lehighvalleystyle.com
our publisher, Pam Deller, is looking forward to this month! pdeller@lehighvalleystyle.com
56 Trying a new “culinary gem.”
An early-summer day trip with my besties. 50
Cooling off with a special treat at The Inside Scoop!
BTS with Alison Conklin at Spiro's Diner ANGELA
2025 Northampton Community College Food & Wine Gala
All Proceeds Benefit Student Scholarships
American Bank
Anthony Limousine
Barry Isett & Associates Inc
Brown-Daub, INC
Bruce & Judy Palmer
Buckno Lisicky & Company
Catherine A. Bailey
CHA
Connell Funeral Home
Denise & Brian McCall
FL&B |Fitzpatrick Lentz & Bubba Attorneys at Law
Florio Perrucci Steinhardt
Cappelli Tipton & Taylor LLC
Gary & Susie Daniels
HB Engineers, Inc.
Ilene Wood and Ray Starner
Jerdon Construction, LLC
Joel & Renee Klaperman
King, Spry, Herman, Freund & Faul LLC Attorneys and Counselors at Law
Lehigh Valley Style Magazine
M&T Bank/Wilmington Trust
One Putt Ventures, Mike Gausling
Peoples Security Bank & Trust Company
Petrucci Family Foundation
PNC Bank
Sodexo
Steven & Margaret Grimes
The Morning Call
The Restaurant Store
Truist
United Way of
Valley
Waldman
VOLUME 27, ISSUE 6
A few hours on my paddleboard at Lake Nockamixon is my favorite way to chill!
I love being outside in the shade! The Henry’s Woods loop at Jacobsburg is great for a hike, but I also don’t mind sitting on a shaded patio with a cold drink!
I love sitting on my deck under the umbrella with a nice glass of rosé and enjoying the sunshine on a warm day!
Well, I have to admit I am always cold regardless of the temperature outside. So, in the summer it’s a turtleneck and maybe a lighter blanket than I would use in spring.
What’s your favorite way to cool off in the summer?
My favorite way to cool off in the summer is taking a day trip to the beach with friends to relax, swim and enjoy a nice Wawa hoagie!
Living in Jim Thorpe, it’s easy for me to dip my feet in the Lehigh River after a hike on the D&L Trail!
MAKING THE MAGAZINE
HEATHER MAYER IRVINE
Contributing Writer
It never ceases to amaze me how many great things there are to do in and around the Lehigh Valley. My day trip story has me excited to take the kids to Morris Arboretum this summer.
ALISON CONKLIN
Contributing Writer & Photographer
The secret’s out! I had so much fun writing and photographing this month’s feature on some of the Lehigh Valley’s yummiest hidden treasures. I even roped my kids in as hand models—highly paid in snacks, of course. Grateful to share stories like this with Lehigh Valley Style
Style Insider Happy Hour
1 | Ashley Melchionna, Danielle Wallace and Angela Vennemann 2 | Justin Keiper and Nick DeJesus 3 | Paige Kukowski, Renee Kukowski and Jack Nagle 4 | Sherri Kershner and Bekki Morgan 5 | Tasia Hatcher 6 | Mary Jane and Joe Kloss 7 | Scott Edwards and Michael Pierce 8 | Deb and Jon Kleckner 9 | Gina Kobordo and Mark Crossley 10 | James Pepe, Adele Farannte and Jeremy Brescia 11 | Sheri Sadler, Marcie Litak, Shelia Clennon, Raquel Barbera, Jodie Fishbein and Lauren Smith 12 | Scott Newton, Edith Gutierrez-Hawbaker and Barrington Virgo 13 | Gail Gilchrist and Kevin Billig 14 | Shelbie Bemis and Kristin Oakley 15 | Stacy Rissmiller and Nelly Perez 16 | Sophia Blanchet and Sarne Brewster
4
Pam Formica, Vicki Frystack and Heather Formica
Meghan Burke, Karen Widrick and Ann Marie Supinski
Hearts of Gold Gala
To Benefit Pediatric Cancer Foundation of the Lehigh Valley | Located at Centennial Conference Center
1 | Natalie, Lilly, and Chris Hercik 2 | Bruce Ward and Kim Hogan 3 | Glenn Neiman, Jane Schiff and Scott Rothenberger 4 | Christine and Eric Moscaritolo 5 | Courtney and Kyle Penrose 6 | Glynis Fitzgerald and David Rifkind 7 | Jessika Haynos and Mark Lohman 8 | Steve and Andrea Marsh, Jennifer and Timothy Statler 9 | Rob and Kristen Bennett, Jackie and Alex Morra 10 | Kristine Buss, Rhonda Johnson, Michelle Zenie Rounds, Stefani Buck, Tracy Stauffer and Caley Bittner 11 | Adrienne Lukity and Tadd Henninger 12 | Victor and Nadya Salicetti 13 | Tanner Geist and Olivia Radcliffe 14 | Peggy King and Sarne Brewster 15 | Melissa Davignon and Patrick Shuck
Al Fresco Fun
Just in time for summer, Kabinett Wine Bar in Easton is now home to a patio where you can enjoy wine, beer, charcuterie and more at tables that seat up to eight people. Fido can come too! The patio is 100 percent dog-friendly. kabinettwinebar.com
SWEET TREATS
The folks behind Batch Microcreamery are at it again with their newest venture in Southside Bethlehem—Wondaffle Waffles & Ice Cream. Come in for the Batch ice cream you love, now on freshly made Liège waffles and bubble waffles, and in waffle cones and bowls. wondafflewafflesandicecream
Get Your Popcorn
If you love independent films, then you don’t want to miss the SouthSide Film Festival! The annual festival, in its 21 st year, is running June 10–14 across multiple venues in Southside Bethlehem. southsidefilmfestival.com
FESTIVAL RETURNS
So much to love all in one spot— the Blues, Brews & Barbecue Festival is back in Allentown! Stroll down Hamilton Street to enjoy blues music, sample craft beer and savor barbecue from noon until 10 p.m. on June 14. downtownallentown.com/blues
Congratulations!
Bethlehem’s Main Street has been named the best in the nation in USA Today's reader-voted poll! The Lehigh Valley destination beat out 19 other contenders, and the win comes on the heels of Historic Hotel Bethlehem’s four-peat as USA Today’s Best Historic Hotel. visithistoricbethlehem.com
NEW OWNERSHIP
Nonna’s Italian Market has changed hands and is now operated by the Crivellaro family under the name Grazia’s Italian Market. You can find all the same Italian specialty foods stocked there, plus fresh salads, sandwiches and grab-and-go meals. graziasmarket.com
RELUX LUXURY CONSIGNMENT
NOW AT THE PROMENADE
Is there a Louis Vuitton bag you’ve been dreaming of, but the retail price is keeping it out of reach? Do you have a Louis bag that you want to consign, but low commission rates are keeping it in your closet? The solution for both is now open at the Promenade Saucon Valley: Relux Luxury Consignment. Founder Coleman Nichelson sought to open a consignment store that pays competitive commissions for designer goods (starting at 55 percent and going up to 80 percent) and gives consigners control over pricing, unlike national chains like The RealReal. All items for sale at Relux are authenticated through the store’s verified partnership with Entrupy, and there is an additional authenticator on staff, so buyers can rest assured that they’re getting the real thing. There’s even a return policy, unlike other consignment shops, and all sales are backed by Relux’s 110 percent authenticity guarantee. Nichelson is excited to be operating at the Promenade, and promises customers “exceptional value whether they are buying or selling designer goods.” He also touts Relux’s wide selection: “Whether you are looking for an Hermès bag, a Louis Vuitton trunk or even designer for your furry friend, Relux has something for everyone!”
2845 Center Valley Pkwy., Center Valley | shoprelux.com
Coopersburg Family Practice
Remote patient monitoring can transmit healthcare data from your home to our office. We are an independent medical practice with no hospital affiliations influencing your care. Experience medical care with kindness, professionalism and compassion.
cost $1,000 per year.
MANGIA CARNE
MEAT AND MORE AT EASTON PUBLIC MARKET
With the departure of Saylors & Co from the Easton Public Market, Luca Manfè saw an opportunity. Manfè, an Italian-born, Stroudsburg-based chef (and, incidentally, the winner of season four of MasterChef ) immediately reached out to butcher Mark Citera and the two forged ahead with the concept of Mangia Carne, an Italian market featuring meat, deli cuts, heroes and prepared foods. The pair says of their venture, “We don’t just sell meat— we carefully source premium cuts and specialty products, every ingredient is chosen with purpose, every sandwich or plate is crafted with care and every customer interaction matters to us.” At Mangia Carne, customers can find everything from prime Black Angus beef to chicken, pork, house-made sausages and smoked meats, plus sandwiches, Boar’s Head meats and cheeses and deli items imported from Italy. Prepared foods like lasagna, cannelloni and chicken parmigiana make weeknight dinners a breeze, and if you love
Federally insured by the NCUA. An Equal Housing Lender.
BE PART OF THE STORY!
Is there an interesting person impacting the Lehigh Valley who you’d like to see in our monthly Insight column? Email editor@lehighvalleystyle.com!
DID YOU KNOW?
You can view the entire issue for free online at lehighvalleystyle.com!
Win It
Enter to win four tickets to The Princess and the Frog Prince , presented by the Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival at DeSales University from July 4 to August 2, a $66 value. Head to lehighvalleystyle.com/sharewith-us to enter!
LVS Weddings
Tying the knot in 2025? Submit your photos for a chance to be featured in our 2026 Weddings edition! Visit lehighvalleystyle.com/share-with-us SUBMIT NOW!
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SonnyMoon Children’s Boutique
Carole Pirozzi knows that quality goods for kids are worth the search. She’s made it easier to find stylish and durable clothing, toys and more for the Lehigh Valley’s little ones with the recent opening of her boutique, SonnyMoon, in Downtown Bethlehem.
QTell us about your inspiration for opening SonnyMoon!
First and always, children are my inspiration— certainly our daughters and the three precious grandchildren with whom we have been blessed—and the basic wonder of childhood itself.
Secondarily, classic fashion with a nod towards trend has always been a passion. Combined, SonnyMoon offers products that support a child’s journey of play, celebration, creativity, development, growth and imagination with style.
Where does the name SonnyMoon come from?
“Sonny” honors my late father-in-law. He was such a special man who cherished my husband and his siblings, their children and spouses, and the bond he wanted to last long after he passed. Our older daughter has lived in Spain for more than ten years. It’s not easy being
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARCO CALDERON
so far apart, and early on, she started to say “same moon” in that we’re all under the same moon. It’s come to symbolize how the love and connection my husband and I share with our daughters transcends distance wherever we happen to be in the world. SonnyMoon is a beautiful representation of everlasting love.
What makes SonnyMoon different from other children’s shops in the Lehigh Valley?
We offer a personalized shopping experience that goes beyond the transaction itself. Nearly every corner offers something to explore, from clothing, toys, books and shoes to art and music-related gifts. We can help you dress your child from head to toe and help you find the perfect gift for their friend. Our products are carefully curated to reflect a passion for timeless classics, style, high quality and sustainability.
Tell us about the clothing ranges you carry. We carry newborn through size 14.
What other fun items for kids do you have in-store?
Our toy selection ranges from pull toys and puzzles to tea sets and trucks. We have pretendplay sushi, doctor sets and tool kits. For the artistic child, our creative room offers eco-friendly paints and pads, steel drums and tambourines. And I love that we sell a lot of books, from board books for babies to classics like The Secret Garden for the budding avid reader.
How do you curate your merchandise?
I really started doing brand research and testing a few years before I even launched SonnyMoon! When my first grandchild, Emilia, was born
in 2021, I was always on the lookout for high-quality clothing and toy brands that looked and felt good, were made well and supported her learning and growth. Many first-time grandparents may understand that I went a little crazy! It became fun for me to help curate her closet and toy box. When her brother, Will, arrived two years later, they were passed on to him, and then to Paloma, who was born along with SonnyMoon in November 2024. Those same brands became the boutique’s base. From there, I am constantly researching trends, trusting my instincts, watching my three grandbabies grow and listening to my daughters and customers.
What’s your philosophy on quality for kids’ toys and clothes?
High quality is table stakes, mostly organic cotton clothing combining beauty, comfort, durability and style; a good-looking shoe that is well made, comfortable and supports a child’s growth; wooden or recycled plastic toys that are safe, support developmental milestones, and are environmentally friendly. True quality is timeless. I strive to offer clothing and toys that grow with a child, a family and those they love. I have a dress and a nightgown that I wore as a child that my granddaughter has worn, and my mother has a doll that my granddaughter plays with today. Like those pieces, I want our products to become cherished memories and heirlooms.
What are some items that customers love?
A few fan favorites include cardigans from The Blueberry Hill, anything bamboo cotton from Babysprouts, plus Hope & Henry and Saltwater Boys
Co. We’ve recently added Bonsie Skin to Skin because my daughters love it. Wooden toys from PlanToys and Tender Leaf Toys are also a hit. And I can hardly keep finger puppets from The Puppet Company in stock!
What do you love about your location in Historic Bethlehem?
Historic Main Street in Bethlehem, the heart of my hometown, was the only location I considered! Carving out a new and unique niche here allows me to blend business and community, helping to elevate our economic vitality, and connecting with people from near and far. Every interaction is an opportunity to convey the community spirit of our special “small town” city. I am fortunate to be a part of the Downtown Bethlehem magic!
Anything else you’d like to note?
We have recently launched a special-occasion service offering beautiful clothing for your flower girl and ring bearer, for christenings, communion and other celebrations. Clients can call for more information and to make an appointment.
459 Main St., Bethlehem
484.744.8415 | SonnyMoon
PLANNING YOUR SUMMER VACATION
BY
Lindsay Stewart OWNER AND TRAVEL ADVISOR, TO PARADISE WITH LOVE toparadisewithlove.com
With weather at its most welcoming and daylight hours long and leisurely—not to mention kids out of school— summer is a wonderful time to explore our world. Travel advisor Lindsay Stewart helps clients do just that with her agency, To Paradise With Love. Here’s an insider’s advice for a smooth and spectacular getaway.
PLAN AHEAD
“If you’re flexible with dates and budget,” Stewart says, “last-minute planning can work.” Happy for you if so, but if money and scheduling are rationed, a good time frame to start planning your summer vacation is 9–10 months out. That’s right around the end of summer and beginning of fall the year before your trip!
It’s important not only because experiences and tours that you might have your sights set on are more likely to be sold out and unavailable close to the date, but also because of travel and hotel costs. “Typically, the first thing to sell out in a hotel are the entry-level rooms,” Stewart says. You could be left with options like suites and premium rooms that might not be in the budget. And as flight availability comes out 330 days in advance and prices fluctuate by the day, pinning down a good deal is a bit of a long game.
DAISY WILLIS ILLUSTRATION BY FLASH VECTOR / ADOBE STOCK
LOVE RAN LOVE RAN RED RED FOUNDATION GOLF FOUNDATION GOLF
GET INSPIRED
“Europe remains super popular,” she says, “and it’s a great place to travel to in the summer months.” If you’re not content with just one country, multi-destination trips can check off numerous bucket list items in one go. Quite a few honeymooners, for example, are coming to Stewart to piece together tours of Europe by rail. The scenic aspect of crossing the countryside makes getting from place to place an event in itself. For that matter, luxury and river cruises allow visitors to take in the sights as they alight at multiple stops. Getting on the ground for authentic exposure is also all the rage. Hiking experiences are an invigorating way to see beautiful landscapes and work up an appetite.
“People love food tours,” Stewart says, “immersing themselves in the cuisines of a destination.” From cooking classes to truffle-hunting trips, if food is life you can really get your hands dirty.
LOGISTICS
When you’re trying to maximize enjoyment, don’t forget that time management will be important to minimizing stress. Anticipating the minutiae of local travel ahead of time takes the guesswork (and headache) out of getting around in real time. Packing a ton of activities into each day may seem like it’s making the most of things, but consider whether you really want to be hustling or will need time to stop and smell the flowers (or rest your feet!). Travel insurance seems like an easy cost to cut, but it’s highly recommended. Unexpected disruptions are part of life.
“When we’re the traveler,” Stewart says, “we think, ‘Nothing can happen to me, it will be perfect,’ but things happen in paradise.” A delayed flight could easily put you in need of an extra night at a hotel. Plan so that something like this can be taken in stride.
FRIENDS AND FAMILY
Traveling with a group of friends or extended family is certainly a great way to make memories, but let’s make sure those memories are positive ones! As you
plot your course, everyone’s needs and interests can take some negotiating.
“Are there mobility issues?” Stewart suggests. “Little kids with strollers that can be difficult on cobblestone streets?”
Travel advisors are great at making sure that hotel rooms have cribs, the carpet is rolled out for any dietary restrictions and relevant staff are made aware of any celebrations coinciding with your stay.
It may seem unimportant, but making transport and dining reservations ahead of time is the best way for a large group to be accommodated without having to scramble. “Don’t expect to get a taxi for 15 people in the middle of Rome during peak season,” Stewart warns. “Don’t stress about something like that if you don’t need to.”
Itinerary apps are an indispensable resource to keep everyone on the same page and meeting up where and when they should!
PROFESSIONAL ADVICE
Some people love combing the options and cobbling together their perfect trip. For everyone else, a travel advisor can make planning and traveling smooth and easy.
“We work with destination partners that we know will take care of clients,” Stewart says. At To Paradise With Love they use their expertise and network to divine the best match for their clients’ interests, needs and budget.
And if something comes up, like a cancellation or, God forbid, a sudden illness to throw a wrench in the works, clients can call Stewart directly, or a partner local to their trip to help mitigate. So if uncertainty doesn’t sound like the spice of life, an advisor will have your back.
Mel Nelson
QTell us about the philosophy behind SoldierFit.
At SoldierFit, we embrace the philosophy of a fit, free America. We recognize that many of our parents, peers and educators face health challenges, and as a result, our children are impacted, too. Our mission is to change this narrative by inspiring community leaders and parents to take charge of their health and well-being. By setting a strong example, we can create a positive legacy for future generations. This movement aims to foster a healthier community and empower everyone to lead healthier, happier lives. Together, we can make a difference!
How did you come to find yourself involved with SoldierFit?
In the fall of 2018, I was looking for a larger location for my own personal training and bootcamp studio when I came across the owners of SoldierFit Easton, who had just signed a lease for their location. As an Army veteran myself, I felt like it would be a good fit, and it was. We combined
memberships and worked together for about three years, and now I’ve been the owner for the past three years.
What can this type of workout do for your body?
Our programming combines resistance training with high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and creates a unique set of benefits you don’t get at a big-box gym. I’m a big-box-gym-goer myself, but that just doesn’t work for everyone. Combining resistance training with HIIT offers numerous benefits for your body. Resistance training builds muscle strength and tone, enhancing overall performance, while HIIT improves cardiovascular health and endurance. This combination aids in fat loss and boosts metabolism, contributing to better body composition. It also enhances flexibility and joint stability, reducing injury risk, and improves insulin sensitivity for better blood sugar regulation. Additionally, HIIT increases calorie burn even after workouts and helps reduce stress, anxiety and depression, promoting overall mental
EASTON
As a US Army veteran, Mel Nelson knows what it takes to be physically fit. The owner of SoldierFit in Easton talks to us about how he helps his clients achieve their fitness goals, both physically and mentally, and what wellness habits he indulges in for himself.
well-being. As a whole, this training approach leads to a stronger, healthier body and a positive mindset.
Who can participate in SoldierFit?
SoldierFit training is designed for a wide range of individuals. Fitness enthusiasts can enhance their strength, endurance and overall fitness levels through diverse workouts. Beginners can learn proper techniques in a supportive environment, while active military personnel can maintain or improve their physical readiness. Competitive athletes can aim to improve their performance through functional training, and those seeking to lose weight can benefit from high-intensity workouts that improve body composition. Additionally, individuals recovering from injuries can regain strength and mobility, and group fitness lovers can enjoy the camaraderie and motivation found in a collective training setting. Overall, SoldierFit training caters to anyone looking to improve their physical fitness, regardless of their starting point or goals.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARCO CALDERON
LIVING WELL WITH
What kinds of classes do you teach?
Primarily we focus on bootcamp training. However, we offer different programs throughout the year to support the secondary needs of our membership. For instance, we offer kickboxing, obstacle course race training, powerlifting and one-on-one coaching as well.
What do your clients love about SoldierFit workouts?
Our “troops” love the community we foster the most. We keep a small membership, to keep the general feel of every encounter as controlled as possible. Most people come in and feel right at home. Our coaches are friends, our members are friends, we are one big family and we all share a common goal: a fit lifestyle.
How do you hope your clients feel after a workout?
Accomplished! At the end of every session, even if it was that one out of every five workouts that they couldn’t get in the right headspace for, we still want them to leave feeling like they moved the needle.
What are your goals for your own personal wellness?
Well, I have been focusing on mobility and recovery over the past year due to a few lingering injuries and walking pneumonia. But now that 40 is less than a year away, it’s time to get back in high gear. I’d like to lead by example and match my top physique from when I served in the Army. So, look out for me doing a little bit of everything this year. Ruck marches, power-building and maybe even some obstacle courses.
What are a few healthy habits you try to practice throughout the day?
I don’t love drinking water, so I get in front of that by adding pink Himalayan salt to my water and chasing my calorie burn in milliliters—as I’m burning calories throughout the day I’m also sipping water. I also prefer my cardio in steady-state form, so I walk every morning. Like the post office, I’m out there—snow, rain or sunshine—even if I’ve only got ten minutes in the morning.
STEEL CLUB
Join as a fee-free dining member and enjoy Steel Club’s BeamYard Patio and Alley Bar & Grille with beautiful golf course views. Relax with open-air seating, fire pits, live music, outdoor games, and a special menu. Reservations are required for BeamYard but not for the Alley.
The Blue Grillhouse patio is the perfect place to enjoy a meal with friends or family on a warm summer evening. Stop in for dinner or drinks—weather permitting, first come, first served—or make reservations to dine inside. 4431 Easton Ave., Bethlehem | 610.691.8400 | bluegrillhouse.com
George Wacker
CREATOR, LEHIGH VALLEY WITH LOVE MEDIA
BY AMY UNGER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALISON CONKLIN
The most succinct way to describe the Lehigh Valley to someone who’s never lived or worked here would be to say it has a little bit of everything. Think bustling urban centers, suburban neighborhoods, historical charm, recreation spots and wide-open spaces undisturbed by development (so far). The same descriptor—“a little bit of everything”—applies to Lehigh Valley with Love Media (LVwithLOVE), too. What began as a no-frills blog and writing outlet for its creator, George Wacker, has grown into a social and community touchstone for the 700,000-ish people who call the Lehigh Valley home, and beyond; after all, there are no ZIP codes in the digital universe. It’s where you can watch a video of a supermarket robot gone amok, take a virtual tour of that business or farmers market you’ve been meaning to get to for months and have a serious conversation about an important issue like mental health, all in one place.
Marty the robot trying to “escape” from a Giant grocery store in Hellertown (a clip that’s racked up more than five million views since 2023, by the way). Sometimes it functions more like a community calendar, talking up local events, festivals and fundraisers. And sometimes it’s a conversation facilitator, bringing together local leaders, business owners, athletes and other luminaries for its podcast series, which saw 2.7 million downloads in 2024.
Of the podcast, Wacker says, “That’s one of the things that I’m really proud of because it’s allowed us to have that voice.” The topics there can trend heavier: politics, warehouse proliferation and postprison life were some recent themes. But there’s breezier fare, too, like one episode featuring actor Tony Danza, or another showcasing Whitehall’s Dance Dance Revolution community. Again, that mix: a little bit of everything.
So how does Wacker know what will resonate with viewers/readers/scrollers?
A good sense of humor helps for the lighter stuff; he’s sometimes sly and sarcastic, but not mean-spirited. Wacker is also constantly on the lookout for material and for ways to promote the Valley. Sometimes it’s a right place, right time situation. A routine checkup at the dentist once led him to Catasauqua and a tour of the Dery Mansion. In 2022, a short video he filmed of people gawking at gas prices ticking up and up on a digital sign in Bethlehem was shared by ABC News and Fox News and reached millions of people.
Another source for story material: LVwithLOVE’s legions of fans and followers. “People are constantly sending us stuff,” Wacker says. And a family outing—George and Crystal have an eightyear-old daughter, Dahlia—can often turn into an opportunity for content. In March they dropped in at the Slatington Farmers Market (Why there? “I just wanted to go,” Wacker says.) and wound up putting together a short video about Sunny Moon Sconery that did well across the company’s platforms.
Of course, not every post or share can be Marty-the-robot caliber, with likes and comments galore. “Not everything works,” Wacker says. But that’s okay. There’s a reason Lehigh Valley with Love pushes such a diverse slate of offerings. “For us, it’s kind of like a chess game, [figuring out] how to stay relevant and in what areas,”
says Wacker. That’s not a static process. Estimates of the total number of social media platforms range from dozens to hundreds. According to Statista, more than 310 million Americans will use social media this year. For businesses that clamor for clicks, that’s a lot of different interests to cater to.
Besides figuring out how to get eyeballs on its own material, LVwithLOVE, when wearing its marketing hat, has to help clients navigate the same labyrinth. “Not everybody needs to be on TikTok,” Wacker says. “Some people should be on Substack and should just be writing. In the beginning, everybody needed to be on Facebook because it was the only game in town for the most part, and now that’s just not true. You have to be able to be flexible and be willing to say, ‘That doesn’t work anymore,’ and move on.”
Although the media landscape is everchanging, at least one core tenet remains the same, Wacker says: “I don’t think that the idea of people wanting to hear and tell stories is ever going away.” The difference now is that stories can be told in a mere 280-character post on X, and “above the fold” doesn’t just apply to newspapers anymore.
Lehigh Valley with Love Media’s growth since those early blogging days can be measured by its expanding list of awards and accolades. The company has won multiple ADDY (American Advertising) Awards, and several Pennsylvania School Public Relations Association Awards for Excellence. In 2022, the Bethlehem Chamber of Commerce presented LVwithLOVE with its Downtown Vision Award. And readers of Lehigh Valley Style have bestowed Best Podcast and Best Blogger honors on it more than once.
Wacker himself has been a featured speaker at panel discussions and symposia hosted by Lehigh University, Penn State Lehigh Valley and the Greater Lehigh Valley Real Estate Academy, among others; in February he was a panelist at the Young Professionals Council’s Leadership Summit at DeSales University.
Lehigh Valley with Love was “punching up” in the beginning, Wacker says. No longer. “There were so many people who told me I couldn’t do this, or I shouldn’t do it. It’s been great. It’s been wild. I wouldn’t have done it any other way.” lehighvalleywithlovemedia.com
Ways to Cool Down
BY DAISY WILLIS
SERGEY NOVIKOV / ADOBE STOCK
The height of summer’s heat can exceed what’s comfortable—but the experience of sweet relief is even better than comfort! Whether inside or out, these options offer the break from the heat that’s part of a hot day’s delights.
1. YOUR LOCAL LIBRARY
lehighcounty.org/community/libraries
northamptoncountyalive.com/business/libraries.cfm
Your library could have poetry workshops, D&D meetups, book clubs, foreign language conversation groups and much more in the way of free, blissfully cool indoor enrichment, and that’s not even touching on the summer programming and storytimes for kids.
Incentives to read, create and learn are popping up at your library all summer, including exciting live presentations—check it out!
2. SHADY PICNICKING
Li’l-Le-Hi Trout Nursery 2901 Fish Hatchery Rd., Allentown
Near motionless in the shade on a picnic blanket, you’re safe from the summer heat. Allentown’s Li’l-Le-Hi Trout Nursery is more than the staging ground for the stocking of the Valley’s rivers and streams. This park’s towering trees offer ample picnicking shade, and you can lunch alongside the fishies by buying and feeding them some fish food!
PHOTO BY
3. MOVIE THEATERS
Roxy Theatre | 2004 Main St., Northampton roxytheaternorthampton.com
Seeking shelter in the silver screen?
Northampton’s historic Roxy Theatre is an art deco gem serving entertainment to its community for over 100 years, from silent films to today’s blockbusters. Pass under a radiant marquee, encounter reasonably priced refreshments and settle into this time capsule for a cool couple of hours. Tickets are $5, all seats, all times.
4.YOUR LOCAL POOL
Cedar Beach Pool | 101 N. Ott St., Allentown allentownpa.gov
Local pools will be drawing crowds on hot sunny days, and one of the most alluring may be Allentown’s Cedar Beach Pool, part of the beautiful park along Cedar Creek. Renovated within the last decade, it sports tube slides, a water mushroom and other sprinklers to douse frolicking visitors, with lots of space for lounging, too!
5. SPLASH PAD AT THE PROMENADE SAUCON VALLEY
2845 Center Valley Pkwy., Center Valley promenadesauconvalley.com
All summer, the walkable shops of the Promenade Saucon Valley are accompanied by the surging pop jets of a refreshing splash pad, located by the Starbucks. Stadium seating around the area provides a place to roost, and chances are the kids will be dry again in the sun before you head into Barnes & Noble for a beach read or two.
SERVING ALLENTOWN, BETHLEHEM, EASTON, NAZARETH, SAUCON VALLEY AND SURROUNDING AREAS
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.
HAVEN HOUSE: RESTORING HOPE, RENEWING LIVES
By creating a stigma-free community in which those with barriers can thrive towards independence and accomplishment
70 staff members are working to keep seven distinct programs and countless partnerships running to support around 3,000 individuals in Lehigh and Northampton counties. Haven House 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.
1411 Union Blvd. Allentown 610.433.6181 haven-house.com
Members of the Haven House leadership team
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.
PETCONTEST 12TH ANNUAL READER-VOTED
In March, Lehigh Valley Style put out a call for photos of the Valley’s cutest pets, and you delivered! Hundreds and hundreds of votes poured in, making for a tough competition, but these 10 pups bested the rest. Read on to find out what makes these top dogs so lovable!
SPONSORED
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Benny
Whiskey (BERNARD)
Benny has quite the personality and a few favorite treats— he absolutely loves Starbucks cappuccinos and crunchy celery. Benny enjoys going on long walks with his mom and cousins, and some of the highlights of his strolls are visiting his best friend, Nova, and playing with his buddy, Loki. When he’s winding down at home, you can usually find him happily chewing on any shoes he manages to get his paws on. Rosa Montero
458
Whiskey is smart, energetic and lovable. When he isn’t out exploring the woods or hunting for birds, you can find him curled
Gosling James P. Sullivan
Named after Bermuda’s dark rum, Gosling brings style with his bow ties, energy with his love for fetch and joy with his signature smile! His favorite toy is the Kong tennis ball and he will play fetch with anyone, including new strangers he meets. He can sit, spin, shake, lay down and roll over. He absolutely loves meeting and greeting new dogs of all sizes. When asked, “Do you wanna go to the beach?” he immediately knows what that means and is ready at the door! He enjoys receiving new toys, even if that means destroying them as soon as possible just to get the ultimate prize: the squeaker.
—Victoria Ashton
(SULLY)
Sully was named after the character in Monsters, Inc. due to his furry look and mottled coloring. He looks just like Sully but in grayscale! He also has one eye that is half blue. Sully is truly one of the happiest dogs I’ve ever seen. He just loves to play and please! He has never met a person or dog that he doesn’t want to play with. He adores going to the dog park and running around with the other dogs (he’s always one of the fastest). When not doing that he likes to chase his cat brothers and play-fight with us. He is also a cuddle buddy who likes to be in physical contact with us when he’s just hanging out. He loves peanut butter, pup cups, treats and any food he can steal from us! He is great at doing tricks, like when we say “dancy” he stands on his hind legs and dances for us. He truly brings joy to us every day and means the world to us. Ruby Meyer
(Callie)
Callie was rescued from Peaceable Kingdom after she was transferred from a kill shelter in Delaware County. You can find her riding around in her custom backpack on long walks or in crowded spaces. Callie is on a special diet, but loves to sneak her brother Atlas’s food whenever she gets a chance, and she loves her nightly dental treat! Callie loves to sleep, accompany us to dinner and take short leisurely strolls through her neighborhood.
— Ben Heiserman
Lhasapoo | 5 years | goslingsrun
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.
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.
HAVEN HOUSE: RESTORING HOPE, RENEWING LIVES
A Furry Tail UNLEASHED
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 3,000 individuals in Lehigh and Northampton counties. Haven House 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.
Members of the Haven House leadership team
•
•
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.
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.
HAVEN HOUSE: RESTORING HOPE, RENEWING LIVES
By creating a stigma-free community in which those with barriers can thrive towards independence and accomplishment
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 3,000 individuals in Lehigh and Northampton counties. Haven House 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.
1411 Union Blvd. Allentown 610.433.6181 haven-house.com
Members of the Haven House leadership team
FUN All in a Day’s
Look no further than your backyard for these Lehigh Valley-area day trips.
by
Heather Mayer Irvine
If you think the only ways to have a vacation are by spending thousands of dollars to head to an exotic location or by embracing the staycation and not budging from your couch, think again. The Lehigh Valley and its surrounding areas offer countless adventures just an hour or so away—a perfect day trip.
(Just ask out-of-towners: There are 11.6 million day visits each year to the Lehigh Valley, according to tourism numbers from Discover Lehigh Valley, and 5 million overnight visits.)
And just because you live here doesn’t mean you’ve seen or done it all—we promise.
Whether you’re traveling with kids, in need of a romantic getaway, meeting up with old-time friends or itching to get outside and move, there’s something for you this summer.
For Families with Kids
Morris Arboretum & Gardens
PHILADELPHIA
Spend the day getting lost in the trees and among thousands of plants at the Morris Arboretum & Gardens, which sits on 92 acres of lush landscaping.
The property, which is part of the University of Pennsylvania, opened to the public in 1933. The arboretum and gardens are home to more than 11,000 labeled plants and more than 2,500 types, hailing from North America, Europe and a primary focus on Asia, says Mellany Armstrong, a spokesperson for the Morris.
Some of the plant collections include native azaleas, conifers, hollies, magnolias, maples, roses and witch hazels. The arboretum is especially proud of its katsura tree and “magical grove” of dawn redwoods, Armstrong says.
Families can walk the grounds and visit the rose garden and various sculptures. The Morris offers educational programming, and this summer’s special exhibition is “Bees, Butterflies, and Blooms: A Pollinator Paradise” (open through September 30).
A popular attraction for kids, especially, is the Garden Railway, which is open seasonally. The model train setup features a third of a mile of track with seven loops and tunnels, 15 different rail lines, two
cable cars and nine bridges. The Garden Railway also features miniature Philadelphiaarea landmarks, including a replica of Independence Hall, that are built with materials found in nature like pine cone seeds, acorns and twigs.
100 E. Northwestern Ave., Philadelphia 215.247.5777 | morrisarboretum.org
Extend Your Stay
Keep the fun going in northwest Philadelphia’s Chestnut Hill neighborhood. Book a kitchenette room at the Chestnut Hill Hotel, which provides a cooking space and extra sleep space for families. The area has restaurants, family art-making at the Woodmere Art Museum and playgrounds. Grab lunch at Bruno’s Restaurant complete with a jukebox and milkshakes— and visit the neighboring Wissahickon Valley Park for a family hike.
chestnuthillhotel.com woodmereartmuseum.org
BrunosChestnutHill fow.org/visit-the-park
COURTESY OF MORRIS ARBORETUM & GARDENS
Tucked away in the western part of the Lehigh Valley is the family-owned Folino Estate Winery, which prides itself on an authentic Italian experience from its wines to its food and curated tastings.
The vineyard was established a decade ago and has grown into 14 acres with nearly 24,000 vines that have created awardwinning wines. Fun fact: in the nearly ten years the winery has been open, it has produced more than 147,600 gallons of wine (red and white!). A visit to Folino Estate is perfect for a day of wine tasting and education from the group’s wine educators and sommeliers. The staff promises an engaging and delicious experience for connoisseurs and wine newbies alike.
For the full experience, staffers at Folino Estate recommend starting with a wine tasting to learn about the winemaking process and taste the featured flavors from the vineyard. Then, head over to the estate’s restaurant (be sure to make a reservation!) for authentic Italian cuisine paired with, yes, more wine. To end your day, grab your favorite bottle of wine and kick back in the wine garden, which is perfectly positioned for a sunset over the vines.
340 Old Route 22, Kutztown 484.452.3633 | folinoestate.com
Extend Your Stay
Keep the wine flowing at the Vintner’s Inn, the wine-themed boutique hotel owned by Folino Estate, located on Main Street in Kutztown. The inn was redesigned for luxury and tranquility and includes an outdoor courtyard with a fountain, fire pit and seating for breakfast.
Or, if you’ve had enough wine, head to the acclaimed Glasbern Inn, an historic luxury hotel that prides itself on sustainability. The inn was named a top getaway in Pennsylvania by Travel + Leisure. Indulge with the property’s state-of-the-art spa, which includes side-by-side couples massage options, and farm-fresh dining.
401 W. Main St., Kutztown
610.683.0401 | vintners-inn.com
2141 Packhouse Rd., Fogelsville
610.285.4723 | glasbern.com
Levee Loop Trail
Lace up your running or walking shoes, grab your bikes or your walking poles and head north for a day on the gentle trails.
The regional park system that connects East Stroudsburg, Stroudsburg and Stroud Township is home to 26 parks, two public golf courses, two public swimming pools, a disc golf course, playgrounds and sports fields. But at its center is the 4.5-mile Levee Loop Trail, which runs along Brodhead Creek.
The trail runs through all three towns, with trailheads at Dansbury Park, Yetter Park and Creekview Park. A spur of the trail, Brodhead Greenway, branches off for several miles to Brodhead Creek Park and Pinebrook Park.
For outdoor enthusiasts, and runners especially, the trail loop offers miles on fairly easy terrain with minimal elevation change— most of the trail is on top of a levee—on well-packed grass. In other areas, the trail
has pavement and stone, making the trail perfect for runners, walkers, cyclists and strollers, says Autumn Hawthorne, executive director of the Stroud Region Open Space and Recreation Commission.
Runners who want to run long can complete the loop several times. On the first Saturday in June, the park hosts the Levee Loop Trail Run 5K and 10K.
For walkers or hikers, it’s easy to hop on and off the trail to visit a park, try fly fishing at Creekview Park, or jump in the Dansbury pool for a swim.
You’re bound to work up an appetite, and there is no shortage of fresh, local food options steps from the trail. Hawthorne recommends local grocer Earthlight and the Monroe Farmers Market on Saturday mornings in Stroudsburg. There is also Crystal Street in East Stroudsburg, which is home to a variety of restaurants. In the summer, Crystal Street and Main Street
have outdoor seating, including at the Willowtree Inn Restaurant . “The view of McMichael Creek and Rotary Park can’t be beat,” Hawthorne says.
One day not enough? Wind down at the Pocono Cinema & Cultural Center (between Dansbury Park and Crystal Street) and stay over at the Cherry Valley Manor bed and breakfast, which offers in-suite massages, hot tubs and a multi-course breakfast.
115 Davis Ct., Stroudsburg 347.601.0157 | cherryvalleymanor.com
TEXT AND PHOTOGRAPHY
BY ALISON CONKLIN
THESECRET’S
You know the spots: the neighborhood staples, the favorite stop on the way home, the places you find yourself coming back to again and again. We’ve rounded up a few of our favorites that are just too good not to share.
TheLehighValley’sHidden(andNot-So-Hidden)
SMP MINI MART
The unassuming SMP Mini Mart in Whitehall might look like your standard corner store, but step inside and you’ll discover one of the area’s not-so-bestkept secrets. Sure, you’ll find cold drinks and snacks—but the real draw? Made-to-order cheesesteaks, crispy egg rolls, wings and a whole lot more. They even offer catering for events.
Locals rave about this unassuming spot for its fresh, seeded rolls and sandwiches built just the way you like them. The food is consistently delicious, and the staff? Always kind, welcoming and ready with a smile.
If you’re wondering where to grab a great bite in Whitehall, this is the spot. Don’t sleep on it.
SPiro’s Diner
Everyone loves a great diner, and Spiro’s in Freemansburg is exactly that. This beloved, family-friendly spot serves up comfort food classics with heart, including what many say are the best home fries in town and chocolate chip pancakes you’ll crave long after your plate is clean.
Whether you’re stopping in for a warm cup of coffee, breakfast any time of day or a hearty dinner, Spiro’s delivers every time. The welcoming staff, cozy atmosphere and delicious desserts make it a go-to for locals and visitors alike.
From first bite to last sip, Spiro’s Diner feels like home. 710 Washington St., Freemansburg | 610.868.0538
Cuzin’s Pub and Grill
You know that song “Sometimes you want to go where everybody knows your name… ”? That’s exactly the kind of place Cuzin’s Pub and Grill is. A true neighborhood staple in the West End of Allentown, Cuzin’s combines a comfortable, laid-back atmosphere with surprisingly elevated, made-from-scratch food.
Whether you’re craving a perfectly cooked burger, seasonal specials or something fresh and house-made, this is the spot. Add beers on tap, a great summer patio and a welcoming U-shaped bar, and you’ve got the recipe for a place you’ll want to come back to again and again.
Cuzin’s isn’t just a pub; it’s a local hangout where the food is made with care and the vibes are always just right.
2027 W. Tilghman St., Allentown | 610.432.5797 | Cuzin’s Pub and Grill
Little CALI Arepa and Empanada Bar
Authentic Colombian cuisine awaits at Little CALI Arepa and Empanada Bar in Easton, and trust us, it’s about to become your newest obsession. The scent of freshly baked pandebono will live rent-free in your memory.
From arepas packed with seasoned chicken and melty mozzarella to flavorful vegetarian options, there’s something for everyone. And whatever you do, don’t skip the house-made aji sauce—it adds the perfect kick.
This small, family-run restaurant delivers warmth, comfort and bold, unforgettable bites. Once you’ve been, you’ll find yourself coming back again and again.
CHICKPEA “TOONA” SALAD WITH Chef Janicca Covington
Janicca Covington’s culinary journey began in her grandmother’s kitchen, where she learned to cook at a young age. “I come from a family of cooks,” she shares. “My grandmother always cooked from scratch, and I was right there, learning beside her.” However, her path took an unexpected turn when both of her children were diagnosed with severe food allergies.
Her daughter was born in 2013 with allergies to dairy, eggs, fish, peanuts, sesame and certain tree nuts. Nearly four years later, her son arrived with similar, yet more severe, allergies. Determined to keep nursing him, Covington removed these allergens from her own diet, embarking on a personal transformation
toward plant-based eating. “I was forced into plant-based cooking out of necessity,” she explains. “But once I saw how much better I felt, I never looked back.”
As she adapted her family’s meals to be allergy-friendly, Covington found new ways to re-create beloved recipes. She experimented with plant-based alternatives. When she shared her baked goods at church bake sales, people were amazed that they were free of common allergens but still delicious. “People would say, ‘Wait, there’s no dairy or eggs in this? No way!’” she recalls. “That’s when I knew I had something special.”
In 2023, Covington officially launched Mama Nicca’s Homemade Things, obtaining her home kitchen license from
the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture. Word spread quickly, and soon she was not only baking but also catering plant-based meals.
One of Covington’s most popular dishes and the one that she is sharing the recipe for is her chickpea salad, a flavorful and satisfying alternative to traditional chicken or tuna salad. Made with mashed chickpeas, dairy-free mayo, mustard and a blend of spices, it delivers the perfect balance of creaminess and tang. Packed with protein and easy to prepare, the salad has become a staple in her kitchen, whether served on a sandwich, with crackers or over greens.
Covington’s approach to plant-based eating is both practical and inviting. She
encourages skeptics to start with familiar dishes, like mac and cheese or spaghetti, using plant-based substitutes such as lentils or improved meat alternatives. “I tell people, ‘You don’t have to go all in—just try swapping out one thing at a time,’” she advises.
Through her business and personal journey, Covington is proving that plant-based and allergy-friendly food can be both accessible and delicious. Whether cooking for her family or catering an event, she continues to honor the flavors of her upbringing while making food safe for everyone. Mama Nicca’s Homemade Things is more than just a business—it’s a testament to resilience, creativity and the power of food to bring people together.
TEXT & PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALISON CONKLIN
CHICKPEA “TOONA” SALAD
INGREDIENTS
15-oz. can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
3 tbsp. (or more) vegan mayo ½ tsp. honey Dijon or spicy mustard
1 tbsp. maple or agave syrup
¼ c. red onion, chopped
2 tbsp. fresh dill, finely chopped
1 tsp. black salt (find it at an Asian market or on Amazon) Healthy pinch of black pepper
INSTRUCTIONS
Place chickpeas in a mixing bowl and lightly mash with
a fork for texture; a food processor is also suitable.
Add vegan mayo, mustard, maple syrup, red onion, dill, black salt and pepper to the bowl and stir with a spoon.
Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.
Serve with crackers or toasted bread to make a sandwich. If desired, add any other toppings you like such as tomato, avocado, onion or lettuce.
BY ANGELA VENNEMANN
THE INSIDE SCOOP ATOMIC FREEZE
It’s nice to have options. And there are plenty to choose from at The Inside Scoop, a favorite Lehigh Valley ice cream spot that’s been open in Coopersburg for the last 16 years. (You can’t miss it; there’s a 20-foot-tall fiberglass statue named Chip stationed outside the entrance, at the ready with an ice cream scoop in one hand and a chocolate cone in the other.)
There are choices galore at The Inside Scoop—they make more than 200 different flavors of ice cream, with 38 always on display. Once you pick a flavor (could be something as simple as vanilla bean, or something as elaborate as Parker’s Playground—cake batter ice cream with M&Ms and Oreos), then you have to decide how you want to eat it. In a cup? Waffle cone? As a milkshake? Maybe atop a freshly made Belgian Liège waffle?
Or you could go all out and enjoy a creation unlike any other in the Valley—
the Atomic Freeze. It’s not hard ice cream, and it’s not soft serve, but it’s all delicious.
“We wanted to have something like the Dairy Queen Blizzard, but made with our premium hand-dipped ice cream versus a lesser-quality soft serve product,” says owner and operator Penny Caciolo. Endlessly customizable, the Atomic Freeze starts out as two scoops of any hand-dipped ice cream you choose. Next, select one of about 15 sundae toppings available to be mixed in (sorry, no nuts or anything too gummy), then watch the magic happen. The makings of this dessert are loaded into a Swirl Freeze machine, which blends the rich ice cream and the toppings together into a soft-serve-like consistency. The resulting combination is dispensed into a waffle bowl, and from there you can add more toppings like hot fudge or caramel sauce.
READY TO TRY IT? Tag @lvstylemag when you do!
The Atomic Freeze is popular with customers, says Caciolo, and Oreos are the most requested mix-in, though animal crackers, Butterfingers, cake crunchies and malt have their fair share of fans. The most unique combination Caciolo has seen? Oreos and chocolate chips blended into maple bacon ice cream. Hey, there’s something for everyone here.
“The Inside Scoop is all about premium products, excellent customer service and a fun, warm, nostalgic atmosphere,” Caciolo says. She encourages visitors to stop by and check out their other offerings, too, including thick milkshakes, waffle sundaes and the Italian Twister: soft serve ice cream layered with Italian water ice. Like we said, it’s nice to have options.
301 N. Third St., Coopersburg 610.282.1955 | theinsidescoop.com
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MATTHEW CANNON
GETTING SMALLER LETS ME LIVE LARGER
“
The biggest regret is not doing it sooner. Just go for it, you deserve it.”
St. Luke’s Weight Management Center offers the region’s most comprehensive program for both surgical and non-surgical approaches to weight loss. Our team will help you better manage, care for and overcome obesity and the conditions and illnesses that go with it, including diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea and more. Are you ready for a change in 2025? We are here for you!
Your weight loss journey starts TODAY!
Register for a FREE information seminar below or at sluhn.org/weightloss
