Lehigh Valley Style May 2025 by Innovative Designs & Publishing, Inc.

The artist talks about painting, teaching and more, pg. 50

STUDIOWORK'S

ADRIANO FARINELLA

Spring Hill

Spring Hill is a rare and beautiful example of a barn renovation with re-imagined vaulted spaces blended with stunning new architectural details, repurposed barn beams, and antique wood. Offered for $4,500,000

Fairfield Manor

Best defined by sophistication and architectural interest at every turn, this captivating English Tudor reflects the beauty and prestige of its surroundings. Offered for $1,950,000

August Manor

Brimming with natural light, Augusta Manor stands proudly in a picturesque neighborhood of custombuilt homes in the Saucon Valley School District. Offered for $1,150,000

Foxfield

One of only a handful of Saucon Valley’s legacy properties, the house & grounds have been proudly cared for and recently updated. Situated on 4+ private acres. Offered for $4,250,000

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

Riverside Manor

A tranquil country setting with period touches that call to mind times gone by, with updates and enhancements suitable for today’s lifestyle. Offered for $725,000

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 $3,950,000

Pine Run Farm

A verdant 2+ acre parcel in Bucks County is the setting for this stone home and Pennsylvania bank barn, one of the original settlements in Doylestown Township. Offered for $1,450,000

Stars Hollow

Standing proudly since 1860, this idyllic colonial exudes charm and character inside and out. Meticulously maintained and thoughtfully updated throughout the decade. Offered for $579,900

FRESH NEW SPRING MENUS

Exciting new flavors are on the horizon at Chop House and Urban Table. Whether you’re in the mood for a modern take on a classic steakhouse experience or bold, contemporary American cuisine, we always serve up the finest ingredients, signature creations, and expertly crafted cocktails. Refreshed menus are now available. There’s never been a better time to indulge, savor and enjoy.

You’ll be hard pressed to ﬁnd a larger selection of tequila in the Lehigh Valley. We feature names from Altos to Zarco and 78 others in between. All types of tequila are represented: Blanco, Reposado, Añejo and Mezcal. Each with its own unique ﬂavor and individual character. All of them go perfectly with our impressive menu of modern Mexican cuisine. Please enjoy our expansive collection of fine tequila — just take your time.

torrerestaurant.com 610-841-9399

Guest Editor Rachel DiCarlo

Three years ago, my husband, Franco, and I were featured in the May edition of Lehigh Valley Style when we opened PA House and Hello Joe. So when publisher Pam Deller asked me to be the guest editor of this year’s May edition, I was blown away! I was so honored, grateful and nervous (ha!) and equally excited to get the chance to shine the light on others and share their stories.

To get the process started, she and I, along with managing editor Angela Vennemann, brainstormed on what my passions and inspirations are: food, fashion, art, nature and wellness, and this began to help shape the issue. I knew exactly who I wanted for the feature story: artist Adriano Farinella, who is someone I met years ago and whose work I fell in love with immediately. You can

read about him and see his work on pg. 50. Also in this edition is Heather Patt DeBoer, my fashion friend whom I met in New York City years and years ago. She has her own fashion public relations agency based here in the Valley, and you can learn more about her on pg. 36.

Franco tells a heartwarming story of how the frittelle and its “secret” ingredient found its way onto the menu of PA House along with a recipe you can try at home on pg. 90. We have a fun roundup of places I love in the Valley and all the local businesses I frequent on pg. 44. And don’t miss my online exclusive Mother’s Day gift guide to inspire ideas that will make Mom feel as special as she is!

Hope you enjoy this edition and you have as much fun reading it as we did making it!

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

26 Stocking up at B-Side Bottle and Larder.

Organizing my spring wardrobe.

A visit to Woodstone for dinner at Timber!

RACHEL DICARLO rachel_dicarlo

All roads to great go through Good.

At Good Shepherd, we believe good is just barely scratching the surface. That’s why everything we do - from investing in the latest techniques and technology to delivering an unmatched level of compassion and care - is designed not only to help our patients get better but also to reach heights they never dreamed possible. Because the way we see it, good is simply the starting line for amazing.

There are so many art forms I love, but the one I consume the most is music. There’s a genre for every mood!

VOLUME 27, ISSUE 5

This may come as no surprise... magazine layout design!

I love painting. There is something about creating something the way I imagine it that I find so calming.

Photography, for me, is more than just an art form; it’s a way to connect with people and preserve moments that might otherwise go unnoticed.

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 Advisors

Denise Lichty, Arielle Solliday, Pam Taylor

Contributing Writers

Alison Conklin, Susan Gottshall, Amy Unger, Daisy Willis

Contributing Photographers

Marco Calderon, Matthew Cannon, Alison Conklin

Proofreader Lori McLaughlin

Accounting

Jobelle Aleño, Donna Bachman, Kim Kressman

What’s your favorite kind of art?

Stand-up comedy!

Music is a recording of a moment in time, just like a photograph. But I have to say, I love music because it’s a universal language that connects emotions, memories and people, offering both comfort and inspiration.

I love the art of jewelry! Both beautifully cut glittering gems in gold and funky oneof-a-kind pieces from local artisans. What a statement they add to any outfit.

I love film. What a powerful medium. The experience of going to the movies in a theater is not to be missed!

MAKING THE MAGAZINE

SUSAN GOTTSHALL

Contributing Writer

Since I visited Timber at Woodstone Country Club and Lodge, I have been dreaming of olive oil cake… and not just at night!

ALISON CONKLIN

Contributing Writer & Photographer

I always love any time spent with Franco and Rachel DiCarlo, so being able to share a bit about their story was really special to me. Also, meeting Heather Patt DeBoer was incredible. She has such a cool sense of style and was so much fun!

The Chamber's 36th Annual Snow Ball

Located at Wind Creek Bethlehem to Benefit Main Street Lehigh Valley

5 |

6 |

1 | Murtaza Jaffer and Jolynn and Jesse Holencik 2

Abby Silfies and Frank Kwasnik 3

Aiden McGuire, Edwing Joseph and Derek Wallen

4 | Ryan DeWalt, Joseph Groves, Andreina Roos, Erwin Roos, Haydemar and Tom Groves

Frank and Cathy Facchiano

Aaron Coleman and Tony Austin 7 | Barry and Janet Fisher 8

Nick and Stephanie Shealey 9

Marilyn and Annalisa Kelly-Cavotta 10

Craig and Melissa Muschko, Maggie McGuire, Alexis Rubino and Mike McGuire 11 | Patrick Lewis and Tanya Tyler 12 | Vicki and Andy Doule 13

Steve Redmond and Jasmine Salgado 14 | Phil and Annette Armstrong 15

Adam Werner and Natalie Fick

Style Insider Happy Hour

Located at MIXX at Wind Creek Bethlehem

1 | Kim Muzzin, Eilidh Lipp and Adele FaRannte 2 | Mary Furlong and Heather O'Brien 3 | Laurie Nelson, Lisa Meszler and MaryAnn Federico 4 | Brittany Werner and JT Germany 5 | Stacy Rissmiller, Nelly Perez and Nicole Kuronya 6 | Gera and Scott Newton 7 | Kelly Schmidt and Michelle Reitenauer 8 | Mary Rhodes, Rebecca Kim, Jaclyn Koose, Tiffany Alexander, Jodi German and Amelia Tognoli 9 | Julie Huber, Lindsay Fly, Mercy Ngungu, Colleen Mooney McGee, Emma Ville and Tina Hamilton 10 | Sandra Caldwell, Gary Crivellaro and Doug Graves 11 | Michael Harris and Monica Bastidas 12 | Heidi Szekula and Mandy Pasquariello 13 | Jenna Zellner and Kyle Morales 14 | Mark Marina and Keith Lampman-Perlman

Cay Galgon Life House 2025 Gala

Located at Musikfest Café at SteelStacks

5 |

13 |

1 | Paula Albanese, Bob Marks and Bill Straccia 2 | Courtney Wiegand and Brittany Morse 3 | Kiara Greenidge, Maia Green and Mike Greenidge

| Avia Johnson, Abby Correll, Priscilla Mateo, Jason Hall and Allie Casterline

Paul and Sera Kelly

Paul and Kym Farr 14 | Debby and Bill Keba 15

Sean and Kate Burke

don't miss this opportunity to tour a collection of beautiful designer kitchens around the lehigh valley!

*tour is rain or shine

*no children under 12 admitted

*no spike heels please *kitchens are not handicapped accessible.

Proceeds beneﬁt the SOTA Print Fund & Educational Programs of the Allentown Art Museum.

Open for the Season

Hello Joe, the seasonal Hellertown coffee shop housed in an Airstream trailer, is ready to serve you outside PA House! Stop by for a cappuccino, espresso or smoothie, and check out their new breakfast menu items like yogurt parfaits, toasts and baked goods. hellojoenyc

EXPANSION

Bethlehem boutique Crewy Woo has expanded into the former Toastique space to launch Cafe Crewy. Stop in for a wide variety of breakfast and lunch sandwiches, or grab a coffee, smoothie or juice. cafecrewy.com

Bottoms Up!

Lehigh Valley Beer Week is coming! Bars, restaurants, breweries and distributors across the Valley will be participating in this annual celebration of craft beer May 3–10. Check the organization’s website for the most up-todate listing of participants and events.

lehighvalleybeerweek.org

REBRANDING

Boutique at the Rink, the longrunning sale of new and used clothing and housewares to benefit Lehigh Valley cancer patients and their families, has a new name, date and location! The Boutique for Hope will be held June 11–14 at the St. Luke’s SportsPlex in Allentown, with donations accepted May 21–24 and May 27–31. boutiqueforhope.com

NEW CONCEPT

Vineyard di Norma may be gone, but the space and its owners aren’t going anywhere. Siblings Luke and Rachael Prosseda have reimagined the restaurant as Something Different, focusing on locally sourced contemporary American fare. somethingdifferent.610

Women’s Health

Pennsylvania’s first conference on menopause is happening May 8 at Folino Estate Winery. The conference aims to connect women with medical and holistic providers to help them navigate the impacts of menopause. You can attend in person or virtually. Buy tickets online at pamenopauseconference.com

PRESLEY’S COCKTAIL BAR

DRINKS FOR ANY VIBE

What’s an “upscale dive bar”? The answer: Presley’s Cocktail Bar, a joint venture from the teams behind Presley’s Mobile Cocktail Bar and Cellar Beast Winehouse, now open in Downtown Easton. The former Cellar 159 space has been reimagined as a place where “you can spend $15 on a cocktail or $5 on a beer and a shot,” says co-owner and manager C.J. Moyer. “We’re looking to provide a space where everyone feels welcome.” The menu boasts specialty cocktails created by co-owner and beverage program director Jean Jimenez (“That man has an extensive palate and gets creative in all spaces,” Moyer says), including a traditional espresso martini, the Salted Chocolate Chip Cookie Espresso Martini and a tequila punch called El Zocalo. The intimate lounge has seating for about 40, and patrons can snack on bites that range from upscale (potato chips with an option to add sour cream and black tobiko caviar; olives with rosemary, garlic and lemon) to dive-y (Smucker’s Uncrustables), with a possibility for hot dogs in the future. Drop in for a drink during regular hours Thursday through Saturday, or rent the space for a private event during the week.

159 Northampton St., Easton | 610.573.4088 presleysbar.com

SLATE BELT BREWING COMPANY NOW OPEN

For good brews, good meals and good times in Bangor, check out Slate Belt Brewing Company, now open on Broadway. “Our mission is to provide a place where people can feel good and enjoy each other’s company,” says owner, general manager and brewer Tim Kerrigan. The brew pub has partnered with Easton’s Weyerbacher to create a malty, West Coast-inspired IPA to have on tap while production ramps up on their in-house brewing equipment, and other Pennsylvania-based beers are also on offer. Kerrigan notes that Slate Belt Brewing Company is planning to create a full complement of beers, including “other IPAs, classic German wheats, stouts, blondes, reds and many more.” The pub also features wine and spirits from other Pennsylvania producers, including Tolino, Franklin Hill, Clever Girl, M&M, Social Still and Gallows Hill. The fully equipped kitchen offers from-scratch American and international options, and regular events like live music, trivia nights and art exhibitions are on the menu as well. Now that the weather is warming up, be sure to stop by to enjoy their outdoor community space with a local wine, a handcrafted cocktail or a freshly brewed cold one.

50 Broadway, Bangor | 570.656.9987 | slatebeltbrewco

CALM AND CLEAR CLEANING

PEACE OF MIND AT HOME

Kayla Rodriguez experienced the heartbreak of becoming a young widow with three children, but out of her grief came a renewed sense of purpose, and a way of finding peace in herself. “I didn’t have close family to lean on, so I had to build something that worked for us—a business that gave me the flexibility to be there for my kids while also creating a sense of purpose for myself,” Rodriguez says. She started Calm and Clear Cleaning in the summer of 2024 and has poured herself into her work. “Cleaning has always been therapeutic for me; it brings a sense of order and calm in the middle of life’s chaos,” she says. Rodriguez provides her clients with services tailored to their needs, including residential cleaning, deep cleaning and move-in/ move-out cleaning, as well as organization and decluttering. Her work takes her all over the Valley and beyond, even to a client in Staten Island (“You go wherever people need you,” she says). And her goal is to give her clients more than just a clean home: “I want to create comfort, ease and a little extra space for joy in their lives.”

484.767.2302 | Calm and Clear Cleaning LLC

TWO BROTHERS NUT BUTTERS

GOURMET SNACKS FOR A CAUSE

Plenty of Lehigh Valley denizens fondly remember Hess’s department store and its famous strawberry pie. For those who want to relive that taste, or experience it for the first time, Austin and Adam Person have you covered. The duo behind Two Brothers Nut Butters has created a line of gourmet peanut butters based in Pennsylvania and New Jersey but enjoyed nationwide, with 20 flavors including Campfire S’mores, Cookies N Cream, Cinnamon Roll and, yes, Hess’s Strawberry Pie. Besides satisfying taste buds everywhere, Two Brothers Nut Butters has a bigger purpose: fundraising for type 1 diabetes research. Austin Person’s son, Mason, was diagnosed with T1D at the age of two, and a nightly snack of peanut butter (his favorite is Campfire S’mores with milk) keeps his sugar from dipping overnight. To support diabetics like Mason, Two Brothers donates a portion of their profits to Breakthrough T1D, the nation’s largest diabetic research and education foundation. To get a delicious snack and help support this cause, you can find Two Brothers Nut Butters at the Lehigh Valley Mall, Easton Public Market and Easton Farmers’ Market. The next stop for this growing business could be NBC’s Shark Tank—stay tuned!

twobrothersnutbutters.com

CURA WELLNESS

HOLISTIC CARE

If you’re in pain, Brianna Vera has ways to help you. The licensed massage therapist opened her new practice, CURA Wellness, in February after spending time earning a health sciences degree, training with a physical therapist in Spain and working at a top wellness center in Clearwater, FL. Now she’s bringing her brand of holistic care to the Lehigh Valley, offering therapeutic massage, corrective exercise, cupping, infrared sauna and red-light therapy. “CURA means ‘to heal’ in Spanish, and that’s exactly what we’re here to help facilitate in each client,” Vera says. Her focus is on listening to her clients’ needs and working both clinically and intuitively to help them feel like their best selves. “I am all about intention and genuine care,” Vera says. In addition to its therapy areas, CURA also has space for wellness events and workshops. Vera says, “CURA Wellness is more than a place for a massage and a sauna session—we’re a space for community.”

Dr. Shoenberger’s Home Visits

Douglas Shoenberger, MD,

BE PART OF THE STORY!

Win It

Mother's Day GuideGift

Do you know an individual who should be considered for our 2025 Influential Women of the Year feature? Nominate them at lehighvalleystyle.com/share-with-us Head to lehighvalleystyle.com to check out guest editor Rachel DiCarlo’s picks for gifts that will be sure to make Mom feel loved!

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 WITH STYLE :

Enter to win a $50 gift card and a branded tote bag, valued at $10, from Kraft & Co. Floral and Gifts! Visit lehighvalleystyle.com/ share-with-us to enter!

CAMBRIA® COLTON™ QUARTZ

B-Side Bottle and Larder

Manager Stephen Pekarik and Pastry Chef Amy Palmer

At the center of B-Side Bottle and Larder, open since November, is a large table. There, amid the wide variety of chilled wines and beers, the individually portioned baked goods, the kitchen provisions and the unique art and décor available for purchase, patrons can create community and gather to enjoy the many events and experiences that B-Side has to offer. Manager Stephen Pekarik, also the beverage director of Bolete and Mister Lee’s Noodles, and owner Erin Chizmar tell us more about the bottle shop and what customers can find there, whether they’re buying a bottle of wine to go or pulling up a chair to enjoy time with friends.

QTell us about the journey to opening B-Side!

SP: B-Side was a long time coming, complete with stress, butterflies and anticipation! The bottle shop had lain dormant for a few years because the success and demand of our other restaurants [Bolete, Mister Lee’s Noodles and the former Silvershell Counter + Kitchen] took the lion’s share of our time and labor. We ended up taking a deep breath, finding a strong focus and capable staff to fill in where needed so we could finally open B-Side’s doors.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARCO CALDERON

What was the genesis of the idea of opening a bottle shop?

SP: After Erin moved here from Massachusetts, she noticed the way the Pennsylvania wine system worked and was excited about giving people a chance to discover a different type of bottle shop.

What kinds of beverages are available at B-Side?

SP: B-Side offers organic and biodynamic wines, including orange (skin contact) wines and chillable conversational reds. We also stock amazing beer, unique sake, nonalcoholic canned cocktails, local kombucha and local cider.

EC: For sure, we seek out options that you cannot find anywhere else and definitely not what you find at the state store.

What goes into sourcing the beverages at B-Side?

SP: I have numerous skilled and talented professionals that bring me beautiful product. We taste and discuss the product, then the wine that “fits” best is stocked in shop.

Besides alcohol, what else can customers find in-store?

SP: B-Side offers fresh pastries and desserts made by Amy Palmer, the pastry chef at Bolete. We also have sourdough bread from Bolete as well as bagels, pretzels, rillettes, kimchi, dumplings and seasonal soups. The shop is decorated by antiques dealer and visionary local artist Chaz Hampton. Everything in B-Side is for sale, from vases to oil on canvas! We’ve already sold multiple decorative items in the few months we’ve been open.

How often do your selections rotate?

SP: B-Side rotates all product very regularly. Seasonal inspirations fuel the cycle.

What items have been customer favorites?

SP: Guests really seem to gravitate towards the orange wine selections! They also love the funky and off-thebeaten-path bottles that are in stock, and they dig the rotating Human Robot beer selection. The rotating fresh desserts, breads and snacks from Bolete are a hit as well.

What kinds of events do you host?

SP: We have cookie decoration workshops; wine, sake and beer tastings; private events; cocktail classes; flower pressing events; live music events; local community events and personalized dinners.

Tell us more about B-Side’s table.

EC: This is where it gets very flexible. You can rent the space for anything from a sit-down dinner event to a cocktail party. Really, we design anything you can imagine based on your needs. The sky's the limit.

How has the community responded to B-Side so far?

SP: The response has been amazing so far in the time we’ve been open! They love

the space, vibe and selections. Guests are very excited to see what’s in store.

What do you love about your location?

EC: I love the unique ability of the space to be so many different versions of itself. We love Southside Bethlehem and are obviously invested in it. It’s such a great community and there’s so much exciting stuff happening down here.

Anything else you’d like to note?

EC: Chaz Hampton staged the space and his curated vintage items are all for sale. This feeds into the space always changing and evolving, even in its physical appearance. We love what he did with the space and he has so many amazing little nuggets of interest. That alone is worth popping in for.

514 E. Third St., Bethlehem bsidebottle.com

Bask in Wellness This Summer

MAXIMIZE AND ORGANIZE YOUR STORAGE

BY DAISY WILLIS | ILLUSTRATION BY GOOD STUDIO / ADOBE STOCK

Mandi Focht SENIOR DESIGNER, CLOSET FACTORY closetfactory.com/locations/allentown

Mandi Focht’s Lehigh Valley franchise of the Closet Factory, a national brand, has been in her family since 1999. Along with her parents, sister and the dogs that roam the office, she designs and oversees construction of custom closet systems that make organization inevitable in their clients’ homes. Here’s her insight on getting your house in order.

DECLUTTER WITH PURPOSE

If you’re planning to implement an organizational system, you want to make sure it’s encompassing only what you truly need. The layout of your closet depends, as we’ll see later, on the extent of your wardrobe, and the same is true when it comes to shoe racks, garage shelving and storage solutions around the house.

“It’s about really being mindful of the things you have,” Focht says. “Do you use it? Can you donate it to someone so it would be of more use?”

From regifting to upcycling, there are many better options than a landfill, and a thorough evaluation of your things will clear the way to store the rest efficiently.

ASK THE EXPERT

THE CUSTOM CLOSET

Focht bemoans the typical setup in a closet. “A lot of homes will have just wire racks in a single row,” she says, “losing out on so much potential height or space below.”

• 24-Hr Service at Regular Rates, Priority Customer Dispatch & More. CALL US. Join Our COMFORT CLUB and Relax This Summer.

• AC System Cleaning & Tune-Up.

Where we look into a closet and see pretty much what’s in front of us, Focht’s background in closet creation shows an opportunity for a combination of shelves, drawers and hanging areas that pack a wardrobe accessibly without an inch of wasted space. Consider the doublehanging area for shorter items, placing a row of shirts or hangered pants above another short row instead of leaving dead space underneath. “That allows us to add shelving and drawers,” Focht says.

A built-in hamper or a valet rod can also add functionality in a well-Tetris-ed space. The valet rod, if you’re not familiar, is the seemingly insignificant little item that clients tell Focht makes the most mind-blowing difference to their closets. A telescoping rod pops out to provide a temporary bonus spot to hang tomorrow’s outfit, travel bags or anything else you need handy.

LIFESTYLE LEADS

To determine what combination of shelving, hanging space, drawer space, et cetera is needed in your closet is a very personal question. Do you like to hang more of your clothes up or fold them? Do you have a lot of watches that need a sectioned tray for best access? Do you have a massive shoe collection? Whether you like to get all your winter clothes out of the way in summer or just keep them in separate areas of the closet will determine what storage strategies you need.

“You don’t want to totally reinvent how you get ready,” Focht says, “you want to enhance it.”

You may do well with a streamlined look that keeps a lot of things out of sight, but some will certainly need to be able to see their options in order to use them effectively. With a functional, reachable and useable collection you can avoid silly mistakes like buying something you already have and wasting money.

WHERE YOUR VISION AND COMFORT COME FIRST

BEYOND THE CLOSET

Focht doesn’t just consult on closets. Mudrooms, pantries, laundry rooms and drop zones are just some of the spaces that can benefit by intentional organization. The last spot you inhabit before leaving and the first when you return is a place where shoes, bags, coats and miscellaneous stuff can collect or scatter unhelpfully. “Who wants to come in and trip over shoes?” Focht asks.

Set yourself up for a soft landing and a sprightly launch with designated storage to tuck shoes out of the way, hang up backpacks and always be able to find purses and keys, and you’ll take overwhelm down a peg (pun intended).

The pantry is another area where cluttered shelves or cabinets can obscure resources and have you running to the store for yet another bottle of hoisin sauce without realizing you already have enough to open a restaurant. Try to purge the pantry and fridge every couple of weeks and store utensils and appliances by frequency of use.

MULTI-USE SPACE

With many folks working from home, the roles our rooms play can require a lot of flexibility. Focht sees clients working to delineate work space from family and home space, and also to keep making things comfortable for guests and family when that guest bedroom had to start moonlighting as a home office.

“A Murphy bed is a great way to maximize space,” she says. These wallmounted frames fold down to reveal a bed which, contrary to what fuzzy memories of cartoon characters getting snapped inside might tell you, is fully functional and comfortable. A regular mattress can be used and serve as a great spot for guests to sleep as well as for multigenerational families making it work in the short or long term.

Your Personal Growth is Our Purpose

At Intentional Counseling & Wellness, we provide evidence-based mental health therapy and a safe, supportive space where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and emotions with the intention of personal growth.

Our modern, tranquil environment is designed with intention to offer a calming, spa-like atmosphere that fosters relaxation and healing. This setting helps clients and therapists alike feel comfortable, enabling them to open up and make lasting changes.

You deserve to feel seen and supported. We aim for more than just symptom management; our approach promotes meaningful growth, self-awareness and a personalized journey toward balance. Therapy is seen not as a last resort, but as a proactive tool for living a fulfilling life.

As a therapist-led, female-founded practice, Intentional Counseling & Wellness blends clinical expertise with a business background. This unique partnership empowers our clinicians with autonomy and respect, creating a sustainable, supportive environment for both therapists and clients to thrive.

We are growing and are now hiring— vist our website for more details.

95 Highland Ave. Suite 301, Bethlehem 610.849.0413 intentionalcnw.com

Clockwise from left: Melissa Kolodziej, BSW; Dr. Brenda Yost, Psy.D; Caitlin Campanella Dieterich, Co-Founder, MS, LPC; Brandy Bate, Co-Founder, DOO

Mariella Silva

MS, MA

INTEGRATIVE HEALTH PRACTITIONER

Health doesn’t just deal with the physical body. The mind and spirit play important parts in a person’s full well-being, and Mariella Silva of Complete Stillness has dedicated her career to addressing each of these facets in helping her clients achieve their holistic wellness goals.

QTell us about your educational background and how that led to Complete Stillness.

My educational journey has felt guided, as if I’ve been steadily walking a path leading me to Complete Stillness. I chose this name because many of us ultimately seek a state of mind with peace, clarity and joy.

I began with a bachelor's degree in biology, which deepened my curiosity about how the body works and continues to draw me back to understanding the connection between physical and mental health. My path to healing started unexpectedly when I relieved my mother’s back pain without any formal training, using a massage book I bought at Barnes & Noble. Seeing my mom in pain was unusual for me, so I followed the book’s guidance—and she felt relief. That experience inspired me to become a licensed massage therapist. My journey then expanded into energy healing through the study and practice of Reiki. Graduate school was the next step, where I earned a master’s degree in integrative health and wellness at Rutgers

and worked as a research assistant. Our team published several scientific articles, allowing me to explore massage therapy and yoga from an evidencebased perspective. Seeking a deeper understanding of yoga, I completed a certification in the Himalayan Yoga Tradition and traveled to India to immerse myself in its teachings.

I later transitioned to a hospital setting, where I developed an integrative health program for children, young adults and families in an oncology clinic. During my time there, I pursued a master’s degree in healthcare administration, with the goal of expanding integrative health programs grounded in clinical practice. The program I helped create remains in place today.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many people found meditation and yoga helpful, yet for some, it was difficult to sustain these practices every day. This event inspired me to study health coaching so I can support clients in building lasting wellness routines.

Each step I’ve taken has shaped Complete Stillness. My mission is to

help individuals cultivate balance, resilience and peace on their unique wellness journeys.

What are some of the different wellness modalities you employ at Complete Stillness?

We offer health coaching, massage therapy, clinical aromatherapy, Reiki, meditation and yoga. We’ve also introduced wellness trips to various parts of the world, with our first trip scheduled for June 2025 to Peru. Over the years, I’ve learned that people need different modalities depending on their current stage of health. Some may benefit from a more receptive approach, seeking healing and comfort. Techniques like massage therapy, Reiki, clinical aromatherapy and guided visualizations are especially effective during times of high stress or illness, as they provide support and care. Others may need a more active approach, such as learning to meditate, practicing yoga or working with a health coach, where they take a proactive role in their well-being.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARCO CALDERON

How do the mind and body work together when it comes to health and wellness?

The mind and body are intrinsically connected, and we need to learn to shift the perception of them being separate. When we’re overburdened, our immune system weakens, leading to illness and exhaustion. If a disease is present, it can spiral into stress and worry, creating a mental burden. These worrying thoughts become repetitive, leading to emotional burden. Strengthening the nervous system through meditation and breath awareness helps release overthinking and the resistance to things beyond our control. Healthy emotions and thoughts support a strong body, just as a healthy body supports a balanced mind.

How can health coaching help someone achieve their wellness goals?

Join us and learn how your support of research, advocacy and patient access will bring us closer to a world without blood cancers.

Breakfast

Wednesday, June 18, 2025

The Club at Twin Lakes 3525 Shankweiler Rd. Allentown, PA

8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.

Regsitration and Networking 7:30 a.m. Breakfast and Program begins at 8:00 a.m.

Hosted by

Starner and Rich Levy

In health coaching, we don’t tell people what to do—that’s a key difference from traditional healthcare, where they are told to quit something they may enjoy. Instead, we explore their ambivalence, helping them understand the importance of making healthier choices by identifying the factors that prevent them from change but align with their values and goals. Some people might be ready for change because their provider has recommended these changes, whether it’s unhealthy eating, tobacco use or stress and pain management. Once barriers are recognized, together we create strategies to overcome them, keeping clients on track toward their goals.

Who can benefit from your approach to integrative health?

I work with clients experiencing cancer, back and hip pain, work stress, burnout and anxiety—some conditions may be temporary, while others can be long-term. I collaborate with and receive referrals from physical therapists, pelvic floor specialists and worker’s compensation cases.

For those experiencing panic and anxiety attacks, a combination of mindfulness practices, breath work and light yoga poses, or light massage therapy—paired with

guided breath work and aromatherapy— can be beneficial. These techniques can be integrated into the same session or offered separately, depending on the individual's needs and comfort level, helping to regulate the nervous system and promote relaxation. If a client isn’t currently seeing a healthcare provider but could benefit from additional support, I provide referrals as needed.

What is your personal philosophy when it comes to wellness?

It’s empowering to take care of yourself by using techniques to calm your nervous system and reduce stress or pain. While support from others is sometimes necessary—and I am not dismissing that at all—learning that your body has the potential to heal itself and self-manage pain or stress is powerful. I realized this firsthand while healing from the symptoms of Rocky Mountain spotted fever, doubling down on my own practice. I used every modality I offer—either applying them myself or from other wellness professionals—and was able to heal my body in that way. Pain and stress take a toll on both the body and mind, and it gets worse if it’s not addressed.

What is your favorite thing about the services you offer to your clients?

Over time, I’ve learned to observe not just what clients say but also how their body moves, how they act and feel and where they hold their tension or pain. These subtle cues guide me in how I approach each individual’s journey. One of my favorite things about the services I offer is the opportunity to meet people where they are—whether they come in with specific goals or simply come in wanting to feel better but don’t know where to start. Witnessing their progress—not just physically but in their confidence, mindset and overall well-being— is rewarding.

570.977.2215 | completestillness.com

Read the extended interview online at lehighvalleystyle.com!

SERVING ALLENTOWN, BETHLEHEM, EASTON, NAZARETH, SAUCON VALLEY AND SURROUNDING AREAS

Heather Patt DeBoer

Public Relations for National Brands

BY AMY UNGER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALISON CONKLIN

Chic shapeware in Vogue. Cozy flannel pajamas in Oprah Daily. Luxe sleepwear in Forbes. It’s intimate apparel showcased in the most elite media brands; pictures and headlines that catch the eye and beg to be explored. That’s the point.

Readers (or surfers and scrollers in the digital world) will spend time ogling the product and not thinking about the behindthe-scenes hustle it took to push it into the spotlight. That’s also the point. And that hustle, by the way, has a name. It’s Heather Patt DeBoer.

DeBoer is the founder and owner of Heather Patt Public Relations. She’s an army of (mostly) one, going to bat for her roster of clients, all of whom are jockeying for attention in an ever-changing and increasingly competitive media landscape. She works primarily out of her Lehigh Valley residence, although it’s not unusual in her line of work to spend an afternoon or even a few days in a different ZIP code. One of her most frequented destinations is New York City, her onetime—and perhaps future—home.

DeBoer grew up in the Salisbury Township area. She has been drawn to fashion ever since she was a little girl, a spark ignited by

her grandmother Betty Patt, whom DeBoer recalls as a woman of impeccable sartorial tastes. The two frequented Allentown’s Hess’s department store, when models sporting the latest styles would strut around the legendary Patio restaurant. And it was her grandmother who gifted DeBoer her first subscription to Women’s Wear Daily, the publication long regarded as the bible of fashion to those in the know.

But, even though DeBoer knew where her interests lied, she wasn’t quite sure how to channel them into a career. “I knew I couldn’t be a designer,” she says. “I am not artistically inclined by any means. I just wanted to get my foot in the door somewhere and then figure out the rest from there.”

Following her graduation from Salisbury High School, she moved on to Penn State, where she more or less crafted her own fashion marketing major, studying business and marketing, and enrolling in fashionadjacent classes like costume design. Soon

after graduation in 1996, following a brief stint in the family real estate business (it wasn’t for her), the Big Apple beckoned. A friend helped her land a job as a sales associate—with a little bit of public relations sprinkled in—at the women’s apparel company Craig Taylor. “I worked in a beautiful showroom over by the High Line,” DeBoer says.

She was making connections, which led her to a new opportunity in 2002 with Tracy Paul & Company, the now well-established public relations firm. “I got in at the ground floor, and then we started to get more and more business,” DeBoer says. “And I worked my way up to become the managing director.”

She was overseeing offices in New York and Los Angeles, but there were tradeoffs, too—namely, her free time. “It’s a high-paced industry,” DeBoer says. “I’d get to work at 7:30 [a.m.] and then we’d do our stuff, but then we’d have events at night, so I’d get home at 11:30 [p.m.]. It was really intense. People are

85 YEARS OF KNOWING YOUR WATER WELL

like, ‘Oh, fashion, that’s so fun.’ And it’s like, yeah, but, it’s long nights, that’s for sure.”

By 2009, DeBoer and Paul decided to part ways, and DeBoer was ready to strike out on her own.

“I reached out to my two clients to tell them I had left, and they said, ‘As soon as our contracts are over, we’re going to sign with you.’ And that’s kind of how it started.” Those clients—Le Mystere and Felina, the first two official clients of Heather Patt Public Relations—are still with her today.

I didn’t want it at first, and then I was like, ‘You know what? I should embrace this...’

Although some of the brands in her portfolio do offer accessories and loungewear, her primary focus was, and continues to be, intimate apparel: bras, underwear, sleepwear, shapewear and the like. “That’s kind of been my bread and butter,” DeBoer says. “I didn’t want it at first, and then I was like, ‘You know what? I should embrace this, because there’s not many people that know about the industry.’”

In the marketing world, there is earned media (attention earned organically) and paid media (advertisements that come at a cost). The ways public relations firms pursue both have changed a great deal since DeBoer was thumbing through her first Women’s Wear Daily. The most obvious change is the continuing shift to digital, with many media companies scrapping traditional printed publications or even folding completely. “I still do earned media, but it’s challenging because there aren’t as many outlets,” DeBoer says. “I’ve had to shift my strategy quite a few times.” Figuring out how to leverage social media, along with its countless TikTok-famous celebrities and influencers, also presented a new frontier. When asked if the PR business is more stressful now than it used to be, DeBoer

doesn’t hesitate in her answer: “Yes. One thousand percent.” She adds, “You can’t get lazy, because there’s a lot of PR agencies out there, and someone can easily take your business. It’s very cutthroat.” She’s constantly scouring content and stories, looking to see if her clients were mentioned. “If my brand is not in there, I’ll introduce myself to the editor, send them my client list, and say, ‘I’d love to send you stuff.’ I’m constantly trying to make new relationships.”

The payoff is the big placement, and DeBoer has had many. A few Christmases ago, Eva Chen, author and vice president of fashion and shopping partnerships for Instagram, put out an SOS on social media. She was looking for sleepwear akin to the classic flannel Peter Pan-style nightgown she had worn as a girl. DeBoer was happy to oblige with products from her client, Lanz of Salzburg. Chen, who has 2.5 million followers on Instagram, later posted a family picture of her crew in the matching plaid getups. DeBoer and her client were thrilled.

There are many more successes: multiple shoutouts for Le Mystere from Oprah Winfrey and her media empire; AO Eyewear aviator sunglasses worn by Tom Cruise getting lots of love in GQ magazine; funky floral Room Service PJs in People magazine; regular placements in TODAY show shopping segments. The list goes on and on.

While DeBoer handles all aspects of running her own company—and it’s a lot—she does work regularly with a network of freelancers—all women—on both the East Coast and West Coast. “I can call any of these women at any time to work with me on a brand or a special project, and I can be confident that I will be in good hands,” DeBoer says.

Off the clock (as if there’s such a thing in PR!) DeBoer keeps it low-key. She is married to Derek DeBoer, a customer care representative in oil, gas and chemical for Victaulic. They have two daughters: Cleo, 14, and Gemma, 11.

...the Lehigh Valley is great. My family’s still here. We have a lot of friends. It’s a great place to raise kids.

Funnily enough, Hess’s department store, which figured prominently in DeBoer’s introduction to fashion, also played a role in the introduction to her future spouse. Derek and his family moved to the Lehigh Valley from California so his father, Jerry DeBoer, could take a job as senior vice president of men’s and women’s apparel at Hess’s.

Derek and Heather met when they were teenagers and dated for a bit but went their separate ways. They reconnected some 15 years later and eventually began a life together in New York City: marriage, kids. They moved back to the Lehigh Valley 10 years ago to raise their daughters here. And, while DeBoer say there’s a lot to like about the Valley, she and her husband haven’t ruled out a return to the Big Apple someday. “We take the girls often so they can know the city,” DeBoer says. “But the Lehigh Valley is great. My family’s still here. We have a lot of friends. It’s a great place to raise kids.”

heatherpatt.com

You’ve ﬁnished mowing the lawn and keeping up with home maintenance. Now it’s time to focus on what brings you joy! Enjoy gardening in our greenhouse, relaxing at The Spa, dining on the Villa Café patio, or taking an art class. Attend live music performances, challenge friends to a game of pool, and make every day enjoyable!

At The Suites at Fellowship Community, you can live your best life. Choose from spacious floor plans and design your space by selecting flooring, tiles, countertops, and cabinets to reflect your personal style.

Your best life starts here!

610-769-4332 | FellowshipCommunity.com

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• An active senior living community nestled on 190 wooded acres in Central Pennsylvania

• Onsite continuum of health care

• Trailside Farm-USDA certified organic farm onsite

• Selection of quality apartments and homes

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Sangria

BY DAISY WILLIS

This summer punch of wine and fresh fruit is great for gatherings, for al fresco indulgence and for celebrating the abundant delights of the warmer months. Get a glass at one of these Valley spots.

1.TAPAS ON MAIN

500 Main St., Bethlehem tapasonmain.com

The sangria options at this Spanish eatery are so numerous that they support a “Three Gypsies” flight tasting. From classic red or white sangrias to the lavender black cherry or ginger pear, Tapas rewards the repeat visitor with enough new and different takes to keep up with the menu full of sumptuous shared plates.

2. UNION & FINCH

1528 Union St., Allentown unionandfinch.com

This neighborhood spot, though cozy and casual, nonetheless elevates every item on its menu, from burgers to breakfast, and their sangria is no exception. Offered obscurely in “red” or “white,” trust that these cups runneth over with delicious fruit. The white, for example, is loaded with raspberries, blackberries, strawberries, peach and finished off with an orange liqueur.

PHOTO BY SHELBIE PLETZ AT TAPAS ON MAIN

3. CLOVER HILL VINEYARDS & WINERY

9850 Newtown Rd., Breinigsville cloverhillwinery.com

Clover Hill’s wine can be found at their pleasant and pastoral Breinigsville vineyard or inside the Allentown Fairgrounds Farmers Market. Among this spring’s sangrias they offer is the Strawberry Fields, made with a drier white called Vidal Verde, white cranstrawberry juice and strawberry syrup, and garnished with strawberries, pineapple and juicy mango.

4. STONE FARM CELLARS & VINEYARD

5831 Vera Cruz Rd., Center Valley stonefarmcellarsandvineyard.com

Wine Club members at Stone Farm will have the first crack this month at a series of sangrias due for wider release June 1, kicking off Pride Month and donating portions of the proceeds to support the LGBT community. Try their new sangria, Sunset, a luxurious plunge into peach and mango perfect for a summer day.

5. CLEVER GIRL WINERY

116 Northampton St., Easton clevergirlwinery.com

This month Clever Girl celebrates Cinco de Mayo with some fiery flavors including the sweet heat of customer favorite Pineapple Jalapeño. With more than 50 flavors of sangria offered over almost five years in business, it’s no surprise that this winery introduced a Sangria Wars event. Come back in July to vote in this mouthwatering melee.

PA HOUSE

wood fired oven & craft cocktail bar

PA

By Rachel DiCarlo with Angela Vennemann

Fountain Hill native and Lehigh Valley Style guest editor Rachel DiCarlo has been to a lot of places. Her work and travels have brought her to far-flung locations, and for the entirety of her career she and her husband were based in New York City. They still keep an apartment there, but they frequently come home to their place in Saucon Valley. When she’s here, Rachel has a host of mustvisit spots that she adores. Read on as she talks about her favorite places here in the Lehigh Valley.

ALISON CONKLIN

PHOTOGRAPHY

Saucon Rail Trail

is the best for walking, running and bike riding. I love taking long walks while I listen to music, or when my daughter, Juliet, and son, Adrian, are here—I call them “walk and talks.” It’s one of my favorite ways to spend quality time together… fresh air and being active! I also love riding my bike and enjoy going the longer distance and exploring the whole trail. And the best part is stopping by Hello Joe for coffee and PA House for lunch. sauconrailtrail.org

is a butcher shop and specialty grocery store located on Main Street in Hellertown. I really enjoy cooking, and I love making soups and stews with items I find at Saylors. They have the best sausage selection, and their steaks and beef are great quality.

1105 Main St., Hellertown | 610.838.6363 | saylorsandco.com

PHOTO BY RACHEL DICARLO

MARCO CALDERON PHOTOGRAPHY

Vegan Treats

is a delicious vegan bakery and their Peanut Butter Bomb is the bomb! All their desserts are incredible, and the soft serve flavors change every few days. They have a soft serve schedule online, so you can plan accordingly.

1444 Linden St., Bethlehem | 610.861.7660 vegantreats.com

Arnold’s Market

is a cute farmers market where I get all my seasonal flowers for my home and for PA House and Hello Joe, and we even get our Christmas tree there! They also have fresh local produce daily. The corn on the cob is best!

1766 Friedensville Rd., Saucon Valley 610.810.3972 | arnoldsmarketsv

PHOTO BY RACHEL DICARLO

COURTESY OF VEGAN TREATS

Seasons Olive Oil & TaproomVinegar

Self-care is always on my priority list, and getting frequent massages has become part of my routine. Colleen is the best, and her massages are so relaxing. She caters to your every need! Her space is located inside the salon and is so cozy and charming— it is the perfect little getaway!

Main St. Suite 2, Hellertown |

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

ARTSQUEST

THE FLOOR YOURS

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

HAVEN HOUSE: RESTORING HOPE, RENEWING LIVES

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

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.

AND IN THE STUDIO WITH

ADRIANO FARINELLA AT HOME

THE

When it comes to turning a blank canvas into a true work of art—smatterings of color, depth and emotion coaxed into cohesion by layers of brushstrokes—what’s talent got to do with it?

In Adriano Farinella’s mind, not much. “Talent to me is… I hate that word,” he says. “It triggers me a little bit.”

How is it, then, that Farinella, an accomplished artist perhaps best known for his ethereal cloud paintings, can do what he does? “I don’t feel like I’m talented, but I feel like I’m intentional and I feel like I’m dedicated and I’m absolutely in love with creativity,” he explains. “I would approach accounting the same way if I was in love with accounting.”

Lucky for the Lehigh Valley arts community, he didn’t go into the number-crunching business. Farinella the painter is also Farinella the teacher, and he has created something special with the founding of StudioWork, a hub for creative types of all calibers in Downtown Easton.

EASTON ARTIST

REFLECTS ON HIS WORK AND THE COMMUNITY HE’S CREATING

BY AMY UNGER

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARCO

CALDERON

“I SWORE I WOULD NEVER DO ANYTHING I DIDN’T LOVE FOR A LIVING.”

Farinella grew up in Paterson and Wayne, NJ. “I don’t come from a family of artists, but I come from a family of creative people,” he says. He learned how to play the guitar as a kid and remembers making art the old-fashioned way—crayons and coloring books—during those days when the Internet wasn’t yet omnipresent and young artists were still sketching more on paper tablets than the electronic kind.

Farinella earned his BFA in painting and drawing from Kutztown University in 1998, but plans to further his education at Italy’s Florence Academy of Art didn’t pan out. He knew he had to get a job to pay the bills, so he accepted a position as an art buyer for children’s history books. “I was good at the work, and I loved learning this new thing and I loved being a part of it, but it’s not where I belonged, and I knew it wasn’t where I belonged,” Farinella says.

By then he was living in Allentown, and the commute from there to northern New Jersey every day zapped his energy and ambition to pick up a paintbrush in his down time. He was laid off in 2001, but a valuable lesson had been learned: “I swore I would never do anything I didn’t love for a living.”

Farinella pivoted to massage therapy, which allowed him to make a living while getting reacquainted with his artistic side. In 2003 he began teaching figure drawing at Bethlehem’s Banana Factory, where he procured his own studio space.

Later, and by then living in Easton, he was sharing a studio with another artist inside the Karl Stirner Easton Arts Building.

Then, while on the hunt for a new apartment in Easton, Farinella came across the Zillow listing that would change his life. The three-story brick building on North Sitgreaves Street had everything he wanted: living space, gallery space and studio space for himself and for instruction. At the time, a dance studio was occupying the lower levels of the building. Farinella wasn’t put off by the décor: yellow walls, dance bars, boxes upon boxes of old costumes, tutus and shoes. He likens his initial tour of the property to a true epiphany. “I felt like it downloaded into me,” he says. “I just knew this was my spot.”

He barely slept that night. “I woke up at four o’clock [a.m.] and I wrote a business plan about everything,” Farinella recalls. The name StudioWork came to him and stuck. He laid out parameters for the

programming he would offer. One hiccup: the dance studio had a year left on its lease. So he waited. But in July of 2019, the place was his, and he got right to it with renovations.

Farinella held his first painting workshop in January of 2020. It was a big success, he says, with 16 students from all over the U.S. making the trek to Easton. He was making plans to offer more in the months ahead. But then in early March, a new virus dubbed COVID-19 was becoming a regular mention in the daily news cycle. “I wrote everyone an email, saying maybe we should just take two weeks off, see what happens, we’ll take it from there,” Farinella says. “Then all of a sudden I was refunding a semester of classes to everyone.”

Once it became apparent that COVID-19 was settling in for an extended stay, he had to figure out how to shift everything online. But a standard “how-to” video—one static shot of an artist at an easel—wouldn’t do. He started building the tech infrastructure himself with an iPad, an iPhone and a MacBook. Eventually it became a threecamera operation that Farinella films, narrates and edits. “It’s not just a Zoom class,” he says. “It’s like a TV show. We can all feel like we’re in the same studio, but we’re literally all over the world.” There are group critiques, one-on-one time, live demonstrations and lessons on the fundamentals.

StudioWork currently offers a slate of both online and in-person classes, with the most popular being the Sky & Clouds & Land & Air workshop, taught on-site and virtually. “It’s not a cloud-painting class,” Farinella says. “It’s a vehicle to teach painting and landscape painting and to balance intuitive and analytical in painting and in process.”

Years ago, studying and painting clouds helped Farinella achieve his own breakthrough. Initially trained as a figure painter, he struggled with landscape painting. He took workshops in Italy on plein air painting. “I was horrible at it,” says Farinella. “I had no idea what I was doing. It’s overwhelming when you’re sitting outside to paint, and if you’re sitting outside in the hills of Tuscany, you’re overwhelmed with beauty and light that feels like it’s from another world. You have no idea how to translate that into paint.”

But he dedicated himself to getting better. After he came home, he tried painting from

photographs, and then memory. Clouds and skyscapes emerged as common subject matter, and they became symbolic of a variety of themes: the passage of time, impermanence, the metaphysical world. Perhaps more importantly, Farinella began to find his groove in that space. “I felt so free just painting and figuring it out as I went,” he says.

Farinella, who also currently teaches at Moravian University and has previously taught at other local colleges as well as Allentown’s Baum School of Art, has a lengthy list of solo and group exhibits to his credit. He also has sold his paintings to collectors all over the world, and has created dozens of commissioned works for private, public and corporate collections.

Even though the demands of running StudioWork (and there are many—“I’m the everything of this,” he says) cut into the time Farinella has to work on his own paintings, he’s committed to expanding the array of offerings there. He’s introducing a visiting artist series to bring in locally and nationally recognized talent for workshops and residencies. In the fall, he plans on debuting a Plein Air Collective that will feature a weekly plein air class in three Easton locations: downtown, the historic cemetery and on the banks of the Lehigh and Delaware rivers.

Farinella stresses that novices shouldn’t be shy about signing up for one of his classes. He’s worked with everyone from newbies to weekend warriors to practicing artists. “When artists of any skill level devote time to practicing and strengthening their foundational skills, they unlock the freedom to create anything they imagine,” he says. “Doing so within a supportive studio environment, alongside peers who share the same passion, enhances the creative process while providing accountability and connection. At its core, all StudioWork programming is dedicated to achieving a balance between technical mastery and the ongoing effort required to sustain a meaningful, creative practice.”

Above all, beyond a perfectly rendered sunset, or a landscape so luminescent it’s breathtaking, or a cumulus cloud that looks ready to float right off the canvas, Farinella prizes the community he is creating and the connection he makes with his students. “Even if I was a billionaire, I would still teach,” he says. “This is my dream. This is everything.”

“THIS IS MY DREAM. THIS IS EVERYTHING.”

Over the past ten years, Faces of the Valley has put a spotlight on local professionals making waves in our area. These talented leaders and their teams are standouts in their respective fields who go above and beyond every day for the clients and communities they serve.

Read on and get to know them better.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARCO CALDERON

THE FACE OF

Roofing and Siding

Clarke Roofing

When in search of a roofing, siding, window or gutter replacement company that treats clients like family, look no further than third generation familyowned business Clarke Roofing for a five-star experience. The boutique-style contracting company purposely staffs an intimate team to create its dynamic company culture.

What does that mean for customers? Clarke Roofing’s husband-and-wife owners are involved in the entire process of your project, going the extra mile and offering transparency, quality workmanship and fair pricing, too. The Clarke Roofing team relishes meeting new people every day and being involved in home transformations.

Its owners say, “We love everything about our business: the people we meet, families we support and improvements we make to our community. As you get to know us, you’ll find that we use our expertise to provide a seamless experience and work to build trust and high expectations with our customers.”

Fitness Studio Classes

Steel Fitness Premier

For those looking for a fitness facility where they can achieve results while feeling like a welcomed part of the community, pay a visit to Steel Fitness Premier. The state-of-the-art center has its members covered with more than 85 studio classes each week, from spin, yoga, strength and cardio intervals, to Zumba, aqua and everything in-between. All exercise styles are accommodated. Visitors can indulge in three heated pools, steam rooms, saunas and whirlpools; do laps on an indoor and outdoor track; enjoy massage services, onsite child care, personal training and more.

“One of the main goals in opening Steel Fitness Premier [in 2012] was to give the Lehigh Valley a robust selection of fitness classes, allowing our members to customize their week with class styles that fit their individual goals,” explains Tom Fenstermacher, owner, local entrepreneur and fitness professional. The location is the second opened by Fenstermacher, with Steel Fitness Riverport, Bethlehem, opening in 2006.

All fitness levels are encouraged to join Steel Fitness Premier. Says Gina Angel, group fitness director, “When you walk into a studio with positive, friendly faces, you instantly feel welcomed. Our instructors and members form relationships through a shared dedication to strive towards a healthier lifestyle.” It’s that embracing, welcoming culture that motivates people to achieve their fitness goals.

What’s in the works for Steel Fitness Premier? Look for a new yoga studio to open this spring! Reach out to secure a free day pass to see what makes the facility stand out in the best of ways.

THE FACE OF Soft Water

Lehigh Valley Water Systems

Lehigh Valley Water Systems is the top choice for water softening and purification in the Greater Lehigh Valley. Serving the area for decades, the family-owned business has earned a reputation for providing reliable and effective water treatment solutions to both residential and commercial customers.

At the heart of the business is the Long family, led by father Barry Long and his son Ben Long. Together, they bring decades of combined experience, ensuring that every customer receives expert guidance and the best possible solutions. Their hands-on approach and dedication to quality have grown the business into a trusted name across the region.

Lehigh Valley Water Systems offers a wide range of water treatment systems, including softeners, filters and reverse osmosis units, all designed to ensure clean, safe and great-tasting water for every customer.

What truly sets Lehigh Valley Water Systems apart is their unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. With extensive knowledge of water treatment technologies and a focus on providing tailored solutions, Barry and Ben Long have ensured that their company remains the region’s number one water purification provider.

THE

FACE OF

All Things Design

Scott Rothenberger PLACE

Ask award-winning PLACE owner Scott Rothenberger what his favorite project has been and he’ll tell you, “My next one!”

“I love what I do and I feel so fortunate to wake up every day being able to make a living and to provide work for our team members, create beauty and change the lives of our clients,” Rothenberger says.

PLACE, entering its 16th year, specializes in a design/build/ maintain relationship with its clients. With 75 percent of the business focused on outdoor living spaces and landscaping, the remaining design and installation expertise encompasses seasonal planters, interior design, event design, planning and production, holiday decorating and more.

Pennsylvania clients and those through the southern states and as far west as Arizona rave that PLACE’s designs have enriched their lives and added value to their real estate investments. Rothenberger is also dedicated to giving back by designing and producing events for health, animal rescue and arts charities.

Reproductive Medicine

Reproductive Medicine Associates (RMA) Lehigh Valley

It was a deep interest in the sciences and a passion for helping individuals and families that began Dr. Ndeye-Aicha Gueye’s journey into the medical field. At RMA Lehigh Valley, she leads an expert team that includes board-certified Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner Brittany Seal. All are passionate about helping those in need to build families through advanced fertility treatments.

“Undergoing fertility care is often a stressful and emotional experience. Our goal is to ensure that every patient who walks through the door feels welcomed,” says Seal.

In fact, patients often express gratitude for the care and support they receive during their time at RMA Lehigh Valley, explaining the team provides them with hope and a clear path forward during an often difficult journey. Care at the facility is personalized to each patient and the treatment plans are proven. RMA professionals practice evidence-based medicine backed by next-level fertility science and offer cutting-edge fertility treatments that have resulted in birth success rates well above the national average. Services include comprehensive fertility care, including treatments like fertility preservation (egg freezing), IVF (in vitro fertilization), IUI (intrauterine insemination) and various surgical procedures.

It’s all done with expert guidance and the utmost compassion and care. Patients assert they feel confident and well-supported, regardless of the challenges they may face in building or growing their family.

Says Dr. Gueye, “It’s incredibly rewarding to see the real-time impact of our innovations and know that the advancements we make today are enhancing patients’ fertility outcomes today, with immediate, tangible results.”

Left to right: Tara Markovich, Lead RN; Brittany Seal, MSN, WHNP-BC; Stephanie Santiago, Lead Clinical Assistant; Vivian Davis, Financial Coordinator; Ndeye-Aicha Gueye, MD; Stephanie Rodriguez, Patient Services Coordinator.

THE FACE OF

Coding & Billing Solutions

Sheri Hovan, President & CEO

| Coding & Billing Solutions, LLC

Founded in 2010 by Sheri Hovan, Coding & Billing Solutions, LLC (CBS) is a recognized leader in medical coding and billing services, health information management (HIM), revenue cycle management, auditing and training for hospitals, healthcare systems and physician providers across the United States. With a steadfast commitment to quality, compliance and accuracy, CBS strives to build long-term, trusted partnerships with each client by delivering exceptional service and measurable results.

Sheri is joined by her son, Mark Hovan, Vice President of CBS. Before joining CBS, Mark held a senior leadership role in a Fortune 300 company. They manage CBS’s team of 100-percent US-based expert coders, whose mission is to assist client healthcare organizations in improving coding accuracy, optimizing revenue capture and ensuring financial success—all while adhering to industry regulations and budgetary constraints. CBS’s highly skilled professionals stay up to date with the latest coding guidelines and best practices, helping clients navigate the complexities of medical coding with confidence.

THE FACE OF

Kitchen Magic

Family-owned and -operated for 45 years, Kitchen Magic has transformed more than 60,000 spaces, honing the expertise of its team, skilled craftsmen and top-notch installers to provide cabinet resurfacing, all-new cabinetry or a hybrid of the two, meeting a variety of styles and budgets. Brett Bacho (President and CEO), his wife Lotte, her sisters Renate Sprung and Cindy Purcell, and Brett’s brother Chad, along with company’s leadership team, carry on the legacy of founding owners Joe and Reine Fleck’s people-first culture. “Take care of your people and your people will take care of your customers,” says Bacho. When considering how to update the heart of your home, reach out to learn more. Kitchen Magic meets clients right at home. Expert consultants bring the showroom with them for a free design consultation. Most products are American-made right in their nearby Nazareth factory. The company also offers bath/shower transformations.

Left to right: Brett Bacho, Cindy Purcell, Lotte Bacho, Chad Bacho, Renate Sprung (with Bandit)

Women’s Health

Lehigh Valley Health Network – Women’s Health

From general obstetrics and gynecology to specialized services and programs, the team at Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN), part of Jefferson Health, provides the women of this community with the care they need and deserve at every stage of life.

Along with well-woman preventive care services, LVHN offers gynecologic specialty care services, including minimally invasive gynecologic surgery, advanced gynecologic ultrasound, female pelvic medicine and specialized clinics for conditions such as menopausal health, chronic pelvic pain and vaginal and vulvar conditions, to name just a few. Many programs are led by clinicians with advanced training or certifications for the conditions they treat.

During pregnancy, LVHN offers multiple platforms for care the way women want it. This includes midwifery care, group prenatal care through CenteringPregnancy ®, as well as obstetrical care and high-risk pregnancy care from maternal fetal medicine specialists. These clinical programs are supported by counselors, dietitians, pelvic physical therapists and genetic counselors.

LVHN offers a broad range of female-centered care that is designed by women, for women, with their needs and comfort in mind. These programs blend experience, leading-edge technology and compassion into a personalized experience. Partnering with women to help them from adolescence to menopause— and everything in between—clinicians at LVHN tailor specialized programs to the physical, mental and emotional health and well-being of women.

1.888.402.5846 | lvhn.org/womenshealth

Left to right: Susan Haas, MD; Kristin Friel, MD; Emily Brophy, MD

THE FACE OF

Community Financial Resilience

First Commonwealth Federal Credit Union

Serving the community in meaningful ways is at the heart of everything First Commonwealth Federal Credit Union strives to achieve. They prioritize supporting local businesses, participating in events and building relationships that strengthen the foundation of the Lehigh Valley and beyond. By actively engaging with the people and businesses that make up the community, they’re working to create a positive impact right here in their backyard.

What truly sets First Commonwealth apart is its unwavering commitment to putting people over profits. Every interaction is rooted in care, integrity and a deep understanding of each member’s unique financial journey. Whether it’s helping families save for the future, supporting entrepreneurs or guiding members through important financial decisions, First Commonwealth is a trusted partner every step of the way.

At the forefront of this mission are the Financial Center Leadership and Business and Community Development teams. These teams are dedicated to offering more than just banking services—they are committed to providing financial education, resources and personalized support that empower members to manage their finances confidently.

Members often praise First Commonwealth for its service and the genuine relationships fostered within the walls of their Financial Centers. This dedication drives the credit union’s meaningful impact, helping to build security and growth that extend beyond the numbers.

As the economic landscape continues to evolve, First Commonwealth remains focused on helping its members navigate life’s milestones with confidence. With a people-centric philosophy, the credit union is building a stronger future—one member at a time.

Left to right, standing: Lisa A Deutsch, Franni Monari, Rob Maldonado, Kathy Weiss, Heidi Kerstetter, Doug Snellen, Bryn Wheeler, Aimee Pfeiffer, Stacie Jones, Rhonda Lauer, Enzo Severino; seated: Stacey Rodriguez, Tom Gosling

THE FACE OF

Plants, Flowers & Unique Gifts

Monica Yurconic-Groff | Ross Plants, Flowers & Gifts

In the heart of the Lehigh Valley, Monica Yurconic-Groff is the recognized Face of Plants, Flowers and Unique Gifts. With a deep passion for beauty and creativity, she transforms ordinary moments into memorable experiences. Whether it’s a stunning bouquet, a flourishing plant or a carefully selected gift, Monica’s expertise elevates everything she creates. Her customers don’t just purchase flowers and plants—they connect with art, emotion and a personal touch in every arrangement. Monica’s warm spirit, attention to detail and dedication to teaching others have made her a trusted figure in the community. Through workshops and classes both in her shop and throughout the Lehigh Valley, she shares her knowledge and love for flowers and plants. When it comes to plants, flowers and unique gifts, Monica and her team at Ross are synonymous with quality, creativity and joy in the Lehigh Valley.

Children’s Care

St. Luke’s Children’s Hospital

Whether a child needs primary, specialty, emergency or inpatient care, St. Luke’s Children’s Hospital helps kids and parents feel better.

St. Luke’s pediatricians provide the highest-quality care for children from birth through adolescence. For annual check-ups and well visits, same-day sick visits, recommended immunizations and chronic disease management, St. Luke’s pediatricians deliver the quality and compassionate care parents expect for their child now and in the future.

Children and families also have access to care through St. Luke’s Children’s Hospital, including St. Luke’s Pediatric Inpatient Unit, Pediatric Intensive Care Unit and The Isaacman Family St. Luke’s Children’s ER, as well as St. Luke’s Pediatric Specialty Center, Baby & Me Support Center and more than 40 pediatric specialties.

St. Luke’s continues to invest in growing its pediatric and pediatric specialty/surgical programs through the addition of experienced, compassionate providers and convenient locations throughout the Greater Lehigh Valley area.

Left to right: Shelease O’Bryant, MD, Pediatric Emergency Medicine; Jennifer Janco, MD, Chair of Pediatrics; Jessika Haynos, MHA, Vice President, Women’s & Children’s Service Lines; Rajeev Prasad, MD, Pediatric Surgeon; Bradley Herrin, MD, Pediatrician

JaLeesa

Susan

Robert

Kaycee

Cassandra

Jonathan

THE FACE OF

Family Wealth Managers

Magellan Financial, Inc.

“Your story and your future are at the heart of our business.”

In a boutique multi-family home office experience, Magellan Financial provides multigenerational wealth planning to the Lehigh Valley. They believe true wealth is more than financial security— it’s about living a fulfilling life and leaving a meaningful legacy. Magellan Financial’s wealth management services aim to provide comprehensive solutions that allow clients’ assets to be a tool to accomplish their goals in life.

The experienced professionals at Magellan will utilize advanced planning techniques and personalized strategies by coordinating efforts across various disciplines, including legal, insurance, investment, estate, business and taxes, to help guide clients through life’s transitions with clarity and confidence.

Clients can count on informed, honest advice from team members who collaborate to solve life’s challenges by looking at options to arrive at a desirable outcome.

Customer service is a priority and is embraced by every team member. Clients can be confident that the team will hear their questions and strive to respond quickly, aiming to support the whole family of friends that Magellan Financial knows as clients.

Magellan Financial looks forward to working with more families in the Lehigh Valley to help create a more meaningful definition of wealth.

Left to right:

Cristy Church, Operations Manager

Wheeler, Office Assistant

Schupp, Senior Wealth Planner

Cahill, Partner

Cordon, Senior Administrative Manager

Queen, Senior Wealth Planner

Soden, Partner

THE FACE OF

Women’s Heart and Vascular Care

Women’s Heart and Vascular Program at Lehigh Valley Heart and Vascular Institute

Heart disease remains the number one cause of death for women in the US. At Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN), they’re looking to change that.

The Women’s Heart and Vascular Program, established more than 20 years ago, is home to the largest network of female cardiovascular specialists in the region. Here, women partner with women for prevention, treatment and management of a wide range of heart and vascular conditions.

The program’s heart and vascular experts understand the diagnoses and treatments identified for men do not give the same optimal results for women. Women have their own unique needs regarding cardiovascular disease.

Major life events specific to women, like pregnancy and menopause, can present heart health challenges. Going through cancer treatment, or conditions

like peripheral artery disease (PAD) and high cholesterol, are common heart issues for women. The Women’s Heart and Vascular Program is a safe space for women to connect and find support.

Women often are the household CEO and put their needs last. The Women’s Heart and Vascular Program at LVHN understands the challenges of balancing work and family life. They care for patients at six locations throughout the region. Convenience in receiving support to maintain a heart-healthy lifestyle has never been easier.

The program also provides education, treatment and management for heart rhythm problems and conditions like atrial fibrillation, or AFib. From heart failure management to heart valve treatments, the Women’s Heart and Vascular Program has it covered.

Trust LVHN, the region’s cardiovascular health leader, for the best outcomes.

888.402.5846 | lvhn.org/womensheart

Left to right, back row: Yasotha Rajeswaran, MD; Marissa Famularo, DO; Nidhi Mehta, MD; Cheri Silverstein Fadlon, MD; Hiwot Ayele, MD; Courtney Bennett, DO

Left to right, front row: Deborah Sundlof, DO; Mila Ju, MD; Kailyn Mann, DO; Alison Wand, MD; Ellina Feiner, MD

THE FACE OF

Water Softeners and Water Treatment

Long’s EcoWater Systems

Long’s EcoWater Systems is proud to be celebrating EcoWater’s 100th anniversary! Locally, residents of the Greater Lehigh Valley have trusted Long’s EcoWater Systems with keeping their water safe, healthy and clean since 1949. Owners Scott Warrick and Jim Carroll, along with their experienced team, are dedicated to assisting residents with their water issues: hardness, bacteria, chlorine and other contaminants. Whether a customer is looking for pure drinking water, soft water, water testing and/or water filtration, Long’s EcoWater provides certified solutions and professional services to safeguard a family’s health.

As an award-winning 2024 Premier EcoWater Dealer, Long’s EcoWater takes pride in offering best-in-class solutions by EcoWater Systems. All EcoWater products are backed by Berkshire Hathaway and are designed and manufactured in the USA with a focus on innovation, efficiency and longevity. Benefits of EcoWater products include filtration that is certified to remove over 94 contaminants, bonded warranties, water softeners that use half the salt and water of other brands, a Wi-Fi monitoring app and much more. “Contaminants in the water affect the health of your family and we are the shield that protects your family’s water,” says Warrick. “With over 75 years of service to the Lehigh Valley, customers can expect quality work and outstanding service.” Not only do they enjoy the best products, but they will also receive the best possible experience. It’s why Long’s EcoWater has earned over 1,200 five-star reviews and consistent ratings as the “best in the Lehigh Valley.”

THE FACE OF

Home Comfort

Comfort Generation

Comfort Generation is more than a dedicated HVAC service partner; the company is a force for positive change in the Lehigh Valley. Proud partners of the Lennox Feel the Love program, Comfort Generation’s team helps to bring warmth and comfort to families in need. It’s just one example of the service provider’s commitment to charitable giving and community support.

Locally owned and operated, Comfort Generation is also dedicated to elevating the customer experience. The fresh, excited, growth-minded company is invested in ongoing technician training, ensuring its top-notch technicians always deliver the highest standard of service by staying ahead of the curve in knowing the latest HVAC and customer service trends.

Say its owners, “We love that our business is a vehicle for positive change; from training our technicians to be the best, to offering unparalleled customer service, every part of our company is designed to make a tangible impact.”

Left to right: Marc Weiss, Holly Holderman, Jared Mickley, Jennifer Burkhardt, Chuck Williams, Dakota Barrot-Cramsey, Ryan Santee

THE FACE OF

Family-Built Craftsmanship

Mitri Brothers General Contractors and Roofing LLC

Mitri Brothers General Contractors and Roofing LLC was born from a dream of leaving corporate America and starting a self-owned operation, and it launched during a huge obstacle in 2019: the COVID-19 pandemic. Overcoming every challenge it’s faced, the business made it from the small basement space of husband-and-wife team, Leila and Wasim, to its own storefront and warehouse space today.

The one-stop shop offers a multitude of services, including: painting, flooring, kitchens, bathrooms, additions, roofing, countertop and cabinet installation, concrete work, chimney repairs, siding, porch and deck construction, plumbing, HVAC work, historic remodels and much more. Ask what makes the womanand family-owned operation unique and they’ll tell you it’s the team they’ve put together. And customers would agree.

Asserts Leila, “From the minute you call us you get one of our office staff—not a generic voicemail or answering service. When our estimator comes out, we help to make our client’s vision a reality. Our staff is attentive and listens to each client, aiming to make their dreams come true.”

For power couple Leila and Wasim, Mitri Brothers is more than a job. It’s a legacy they can one day pass onto their family, including their children, Jacob, Juliana and Joey. Making a positive impact for future generations is a passion of Leila’s. Mitri Brothers gives back by sponsoring high school students in business competitions and Leila visits to speak to them about her experience, too. She hopes to inspire them to achieve their dreams as she and Wasim have with Mitri Brothers.

Body Contouring: Where Science Meets Beauty

Physicians Weight Control

Embark on a transformative journey with Physicians Weight Control’s Strawberry Laser Lipo Program, under the leadership of Dr. William Strowhouer and his son, Director William Strowhouer III. Driven by a commitment to offering accessible weight loss and inch-loss solutions, their seamless integration of cutting-edge technology has redefined body contouring for thousands of clients.

Their array of services includes personalized medical weight loss programs featuring phentermine, tirzepatide and semaglutide injections, body contouring and inch loss through the revolutionary Strawberry Laser Lipo treatments, and the added benefits of vitamin/nutrient injections to boost energy levels, burn fat and support metabolism with vitamin B12 and BioBoost lipotropic injections.

The Strawberry Laser Lipo Program is celebrating its 10-year anniversary with PWC. Boasting state-of-theart technology, it is backed by FDA approval, ensuring precise and visible results after every treatment. Each client receives personalized care with treatment plans tailored to their unique needs, maximizing efficacy and ensuring optimal results. With a remarkable 95 percent success rate in clinical trials, clients can trust in the safety and assurance of their inch-loss journey without experiencing adverse side effects. Moreover, the program’s noninvasive approach means zero downtime, pain or the need for surgery.

Clients express their delight and satisfaction with the program’s effectiveness, safety and convenience, praising the dedicated team’s commitment to their wellness goals. Physicians Weight Control in Allentown remains steadfast in their mission to empower individuals on their wellness journey, inviting everyone to discover a healthier, happier version of themselves.

5018 Medical Center Cir. Ste 230, Allentown 610.398.3500 pwconline.com

Left to right: Morgan Wolff, William Strowhouer III, Maggie Corl Strowhouer, Salome Harmon, Nazaneen Ashraphijuo, and Kristen Konicki

THE FACE OF

Building Financial Confidence

Morton Brown Family Wealth

Wealth isn’t just about numbers at Morton Brown. It’s about building something bigger. Whether that means crafting a financial plan that aligns with personal values, strengthening relationships with clients, or growing its firm to better serve the community, every step the business takes is intentional.

Currently, Morton Brown is in a season of growth, both literally and figuratively. As they build out their new office space, launch a refreshed website, and introduce a new app, the fee-based fiduciary firm is reimagining the client experience. Asserts its Co-Founder Kathryn Brown, “The work we do is about more than managing investments. It’s about helping leaders, families, and professionals design a financial future that reflects their purpose.”

Morton Brown advisors serve as guides, helping clients manage the complexities of wealth with clarity and confidence. Expect a boutique, high-touch experience designed for executives, business owners, and community leaders seeking thoughtful planning and meaningful direction. “What we hear most from clients is a sense of relief and empowerment, knowing they have a trusted team helping them navigate life’s transitions,” says Dennis Morton, Co-Founder. And they are excited for what’s ahead: new spaces, new tools, and new ways to serve. While a lot of “new” is in the works, Morton Brown’s vision remains the same: to positively impact the experience people have with money, relationships, and life. “This year, we’re not just growing. We’re building.”

THE FACE OF

Digital Dentistry

Skelly Smiles

It was an unexpected high school softball injury that launched Dr. Elizabeth Skelly, a lifelong resident of the Lehigh Valley, into a career in dentistry. Requiring treatment from a variety of dental specialists, her need for care was addressed, and a deep interest in the science and artistry behind dentistry was sparked. Today, Skelly Smiles in Easton offers a wide array of dental treatments, most notably, using digital technology to create beautiful smiles using SureSmile orthodontic aligners. Digital impressions are made with intraoral scanners, allowing patients to get an immediate look at their teeth on a screen. Professionals at Skelly Smiles also fabricate whitening trays and nightguards using a 3D printer—the Primeprint—the first of its kind in the Lehigh Valley. Skelly Smiles

also offers patients of all ages preventative cleanings and stresses the importance of starting a journey toward excellent dental health from an early age. Recently, the practice has incorporated the use of injectables such as Botox to aid in enhancing a patient’s facial features, framing their beautiful smile. Skelly Smiles is run by a team of talented and dedicated women who share a passion for transforming smiles and boosting confidence. Says Dr. Skelly, “We believe that a beautiful smile can do more than just enhance appearances—it can change lives. By embracing the latest technology, we can provide more precise, efficient and comfortable care, helping everyone experience the full benefits of modern dentistry.” Don’t wait—a smile journey at Skelly Smiles begins today!

S. 22 nd St., Easton | 610.252.8966 | skellysmiles.com

Left to right: Cassidy Torcivia; Jo Bullock; Jenna McGarr, RDH; Heather Kennedy, RDH; Elizabeth Skelly, DMD; Amanda Davis, RDH; Justine Lopez. Not Pictured: Alexa Thomas; Makeup by Adele Annette / Lehigh Valley Professional MUA

THE

FACE OF Family Business Expertise

Compass Point Consulting

There are consultants. There are coaches. And then there is Compass Point. A team of eight family business experts with financial acumen, emotional intelligence and strong facilitation skills to help a leadership team navigate the inherent challenges within a family business. Successful Businesses. Aligned Ownership. Stronger Families. That’s what can be achieved with Compass Point on one’s side.

Compass Point helps family business owners shape success now and for the next generation by aligning the ownership, strengthening family understanding around business fundamentals, preparing the Next Generation, and building a business that can run without the owner. Their Six Pillars of Family Business Framework focuses on Strategy, Leadership, Transition, Family Dynamics and Governance, Financial Gap and Next Chapter.

What does Compass Point hear from their customers? “We could not have [scaled the business, aligned the team, created a succession plan, built a board] without Compass Point.”

Founder Tom Garrity shares, “Our approach resonates with owners because we are driving business growth and value, while also aligning owners, and building family relationships that other operating systems don’t adequately address, if at all. We believe creating harmony at both the conference room table and dinner table is priceless.”

306 S. New St. Suite 110, Bethlehem 610.336.0514

compasspt.com

Left to right: Lizette Dubacher, MBA; Matthew Baran; Mark Carlton; John Bailie, Ph.D.; Tom Garrity; Catherine Garrity-Frans; Kaitlin Wolfert, Ph.D.; Cheryl Doll, Ed.D.

FRITTELLE WITH PA HOUSE’S Franco DiCarlo

For many, dreams evolve with time. For the owner of PA House, Franco DiCarlo, that evolution began in the fashion world and found its home in the heart of Pennsylvania.

Now entering its fourth season, PA House is more than just a restaurant—it’s an experience shaped by a lifetime of creativity, travel and family collaboration.

“I think that life experiences, travel and ultimately my upbringing informed what became this,” the owner reflects. Growing up in Michigan with roots in Rome, Italy, his background is a story of contrasts—Midwest garages and European aesthetics, small-town familiarity and metropolitan sophistication. These opposites

became the foundation of PA House’s identity. “Cool but humble, refined but relaxed, familiar but unique,” DiCarlo explains. “There are all these contradictions or opposites, if you will, and that’s the philosophy we’ve taken through everything.”

Before opening the restaurant, DiCarlo spent years in the fashion industry, traveling frequently to Europe.

This experience shaped not only his sense of style but also his approach to hospitality.

“Fashion and hospitality parallel each other very closely,” he shares. “Both are about point of view, aesthetics, social trends and storytelling—the majority of any luxury brand is storytelling, and I think this is no different.”

PA House’s menu, described as “modern American with an Italian soul,” reflects the owner’s heritage. “We don’t take shortcuts. We only use the finest ingredients. And at the end of the day, simplicity reigns supreme,” DiCarlo explains. The commitment to quality is evident in every dish, echoing a philosophy learned from his Italian mother, who baked bread weekly for the family.

Today, as guests gather at PA House, DiCarlo still feels a sense of wonder. “Seeing people come in, sit at tables we designed, and enjoy what we created—it’s something that will never be lost on me,” he says. PA House stands as a testament to the power of dreams that evolve, grow and, ultimately, come home.

For him, that taste of love is found in the memory of his mother’s frittelle—simple pieces of bread dough fried until golden, then shaken in a paper bag with powdered sugar and eaten hot. The warmth and sweetness of those freshly fried treats stayed with DiCarlo, quietly shaping his lifelong love for donuts and inspiring dishes that now stand as signature items on his menu. It’s a reminder that food is more than ingredients—it’s a connection to the past, a reflection of family and, above all, a flavor infused with love.

“The number one ingredient in any dish isn’t written on a recipe card—it’s love,” says DiCarlo. “That’s why your mom’s food always tastes so unbelievably good.”

TEXT & PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALISON CONKLIN

FRITTELLE

INGREDIENTS

1 ¼ cups (300ml) warm water (about 110°F or 45°C)

2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast or instant yeast

3 ½ cups (440g) all-purpose flour or bread flour

1 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter

Vegetable or canola oil for frying

1 cup powdered sugar

INSTRUCTIONS

Activate the yeast (if using active dry yeast): In a small bowl, mix warm water with yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. If using instant yeast, mix it directly with the flour in the next step.

Mix the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the activated yeast mixture and olive oil or melted butter. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.

Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes

until smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer with a dough hook, knead for about 5–7 minutes on medium speed.

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1–1 ½ hours, or until doubled in size. Gently punch down the risen dough to release air bubbles. Cover and let it rise again for about 30–45 minutes.

Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Roll or stretch it into 1-inch thick strands. Cut into 2– 3 inch

long pieces or leave them in random lengths.

Heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the dough pieces in batches for 2– 3 minutes per side, until golden brown and puffed up. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Place the warm fried dough pieces into a brown paper bag. Add powdered sugar, fold the top of the bag, and shake well to evenly coat the pieces. Serve warm.

GREAT SERVICE, GREAT FOOD BECKON AT WOODSTONE COUNTRY CLUB'S

Timber

Woodstone Country Club and Lodge opened its new restaurant, Timber, in February without skipping a beat—transforming the eatery from its previous incarnation as Aromi, which closed in December. New décor and freshly conceived cuisine offer a new dining experience that features well-executed fare with a special focus on warm and welcoming service.

In a rural area northeast of Northampton, Woodstone’s 200-acre property features an 18-hole private golf club, but Timber and other Woodstone offerings are open to all, says general manager Tim O’Neill, emphasizing that everyone is welcome.

The sprawling clubhouse where the restaurant finds its home has a massive presence, its stone and wood construction blending naturally with the rural setting. Those same earth elements, stone and wood, inspired the restaurant’s name as well as the club’s, obviously.

Natural warmth predominates in the restaurant’s ambience. Stone wainscoting along the walls and stone at the bar bring the building’s exterior inside, showcasing the simple beauty of nature’s materials. Wood appointments such as crosssections of logs behind a television screen contribute a rustic touch. Newly painted beige walls, new tables and chairs and a new bar top complete the restaurant’s transformation. Views of the pristine golf course and Blue Mountain through floorto-ceiling windows add a wide-angle perspective of the natural world.

Timber’s cuisine is in line with Woodstone’s redefinition of its restaurant as “fine casual” dining.

BY SUSAN GOTTSHALL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALISON CONKLIN

Woodstone wings, with an array of sauces, and the Woodstone turkey club exemplify casual selections; seared sushi-grade tuna with forbidden black rice and New York strip steak with the French-inspired accompaniments pommes purées and au poivre sauce offer fine-dining-style choices.

Executive chef Oliver Filley, who now heads up the kitchen following the retirement of Paolo Nota, worked as a lumberjack and logger before entering the culinary field, so it makes perfect sense that he would cook in the kitchen of a restaurant called Timber. Growing up on a 100-acre farm in Bedminster, NJ, he says, “I always had good food on the table,” and he operates from that mindset in his restaurant kitchens.

The foundation of great food, Filley says, is starting with the best ingredients. Each of the kitchen’s stocks—veal, beef and duck—as well as its

demi-glace is made in-house. He plans to source as many ingredients as possible locally, as our Lehigh Valley growing season begins, and he hopes to grow some foods for the restaurant on the property.

Filley is classically trained— he’s a graduate of the former French Culinary Institute (now part of New York City’s Institute of Culinary Education)—but the restaurant serves all kinds of food, he says.

The menu bears this out. Starters range from soy-glazed pork belly and black truffle sacchetti to Blue Mountain Zingers (fried boneless chicken tenders with Zinger sauce). Light fare includes a crab cake sandwich, a Reuben, a crispy Buffalo chicken sandwich and Chef Filley’s cheesesteak (made with filet mignon). And entrée selections, which change seasonally, can run the gamut from pasta to seafood to pork and poultry: braised short rib bolognese, Maryland crab

ravioli, a Premium Reserve pork chop with apple Dijon mustard sauce and blackened duck breast with lingonberry sauce.

The peppered crusted tuna starter has such bright flavor it’s almost palate-cleansing, which makes it a fine way to start a meal at Timber. Delectably highlighted with its light pepper crust and faint notes of spice, sushigrade tuna—rare on the inside (but can be cooked to order)—is tender enough to cut with a fork. It’s served atop eye-catching Asian slaw with red and green cabbage, julienned snow peas, asparagus and carrots, its zippy heat offsetting the tuna’s singular taste. Corn tortilla crumbles add surprising texture. Finished with a wasabi microgreens garnish, this vibrant dish is every bit as beautiful as it is flavorful.

The restaurant’s delightful signature drink, the Timbertini—RumHaven, lime juice, St-Germain elderflower liqueur, peach schnapps, Sprite—opens with a hint of vanilla but finishes on the palate with fresh notes of citrus and fruit, and a subtle touch of coconut. It’s a refreshing way to open up a palate for taste experiences to come.

Comfort food with class— filet mignon risotto—is complex and intense in the best way. The risotto, cooked in mushroom stock, is finished with wild mushrooms sautéed in Madeira, shallots, Parmigiano-Reggiano, tarragon, thyme, chervil and a touch of demi-glace. The filet, mouthwateringly pan-seared, is marinated in black garlic, which adds a layer of luxurious and mysterious flavor. With its earthy mushroom essence, the risotto paired with the steak is partner perfection.

A glass of fruity Avia pinot noir complements taste notes in both, completing the total flavor experience.

In the seafood category, shrimp spaetzle is a revelation. The six sautéed jumbo Panama white shrimp in this dish are some of the best I’ve eaten. How interesting to pair inhouse crafted German spaetzle, which I think of as a wintrystyle carbohydrate, with shellfish. But Filley lightens up the tiny dumplings with lemon zest as they’re sautéed in butter until browned and crisp.

A bit of Parmigiano-Reggiano adds savory and subtle nutty notes. The spaetzle provides lovely balance—buttery richness and crisped texture— to the crustaceans. Lemon beurre blanc sauce, made in-house, of course, tops the perfectly cooked shrimp and spaetzle, tying both together in citrusy lightness. Timber’s margarita pairs well with the shrimp, its citrus reflecting the spaetzle’s lemony notes.

Olive oil cake, in the department of sweet things, is as rich as rich can be, and ohso-satisfying. Like many cakes, it’s made with flour, eggs, milk and baking soda. This cake also includes heavy cream in its ingredient list, and there’s “lots of olive oil” in the batter, says Filley. I didn’t ask the chef to define “lots”; I’m thinking I probably don’t really want to know, considering the cake also gets an olive oil drizzle on top when it emerges from the oven. Sometimes ignorance is, indeed, bliss. And this cake is bliss. No need to jeopardize the indulgent joy it brings by counting its calories. Served straight from the oven, topped with Luxardo maraschino cherries, this cake is nirvana in a cast-iron pan.

Woodstone Country Club and Lodge celebrates its 25th anniversary this year. During

its quarter of a century, the club has provided golf and dining in a scenic setting, of course, but there’s more, too.

As an event venue, the club hosts more than 100 weddings a year across its property in its grand ballroom, in the Woodstone gardens, in smaller and more intimate gathering spaces and in the Lodge, which boasts custom stone walls and a Kodak-moment grand staircase. There’s even an option for adding fireworks to a wedding day.

The club also celebrates several holidays throughout the year with specially created buffets: O’Brien says guests total about 1,000 on Thanksgiving, Easter and Mother’s Day. Fourth of July usually brings about 3,000 people to an outdoor extravaganza that includes food trucks, a half-hour fireworks display, zip lines, axe throwing, bouncy houses and rides in a hot air balloon and a helicopter.

The Lodge has 28 rooms that O’Brien says are mostly booked on weekends throughout the summer, often with wedding guests. Winter is busy as well; the Lodge is a favorite of skiers, since the club is conveniently located only three and a half miles from Blue Mountain Resort.

And speaking of Blue Mountain, Maria Harding, marketing and sales coordinator, says Woodstone’s scenic views provide beautiful sunsets every night. It’s a natural dessert to finish a great meal at Timber or mark the end of a memorable wedding day.

How fitting for nature to cooperate with O’Brien’s goal for guests to leave Woodstone remembering a warm welcome and a fond farewell. A farewell doesn’t get much fonder than a beautiful sunset.

Timber at Woodstone Country Club and Lodge

3777 Dogwood Rd., Danielsville

610.760.2777

woodstonegolf.com

HOURS

Tuesday—Saturday 11 a.m.–9 p.m.

Sunday 11 a.m.–8 p.m.

Closed Monday

Cost: Starters: $9–$20

Mains: $27–$45

Parking: Ample parking in property lot.

Reservations: Walk-ins welcome; reservations recommended.

WHAT TO ORDER

The Timbertini: Citrusy. Coconutty. Ah, refreshing, too.

Shrimp spaetzle: perfectly cooked shrimp, lovely lemon flavor; how often do you get yummy spaetzle? And, for goodness’ sake, do not miss the olive oil cake. You will go back for more.

DRINK THIS

BY ANGELA VENNEMANN PHOTOGRAPHY BY MATTHEW CANNON

KOMÉ MIYAKO WAVE

On an early spring Saturday afternoon, I found myself at the Promenade Saucon Valley doing some shopping with my son. Fancying an afternoon treat, we decided to pop into KOMÉ for a mocktail, where we grabbed a high-top table and a drink menu in the lounge area. We were pleasantly surprised to find a great variety of nonalcoholic drinks available; my son chose an Island Breeze, and I opted for the Miyako Wave.

The first thing I noticed about my drink was its beautiful deep-plum color, something that manager Bella Sanchez says no doubt adds to its popularity among patrons. Served over ice and garnished with a pineapple wedge, the Miyako Wave is a mix of lychee purée, pineapple juice, pomegranate juice and Sprite. The flavor is light and refreshing, almost floral, and not cloyingly sweet. Delicately balanced, this drink satisfies the craving for a traditional cocktail for anyone looking for an alcoholfree beverage. Sanchez describes it as “pineapple-forward with a nice lychee and pomegranate finish.”

READY TO TRY IT?

Tag @lvstylemag when you do!

The Miyako Wave has distinctly Japanese roots, named for a city in Iwate Prefecture on the main island of Honshu and made with lychee that KOMÉ imports directly from Japan. “It combines the flavors of both Japan and other tropical islands,” Sanchez says. Bartender Maizie Rooth s ays the lychee is puréed in-house for use in cocktails and mocktails and notes, “It adds a nice pop of flavor into any drink we make.”

Though it’s easy to enjoy on its own, the Miyako Wave plays nicely with any of KOMÉ’s sushi rolls featuring fruit; Rooth recommends pairing the drink with a Rock Lobster roll, a Godzilla roll or a KOMÉ roll.

The Miyako Wave is available yearround, and it’s a good thing, too: Sanchez says it’s the most popular mocktail on KOMÉ’s menu. In addition to the Miyako Wave and the Island Breeze (also delicious—I stole a sip of my son’s drink as a mom-tax), patrons can also enjoy the Cucumber Soda (cucumber simple syrup, lime and club soda) and the Wannabe Watermelon (cucumber simple syrup, lime, white cranberry, grapefruit and club soda).

2800 Center Valley Pkwy., Center Valley 610.798.9888 | komerestaurant.com