An elegant and fully updated New Hope estate on 12 acres with an expansive 5-bedroom main home, luxe guest cottage, infinity pool, pickleball court, and more. Offered for $5,950,000
Foxfield
A Saucon Valley legacy estate nestled on 4.6 acres. the house and grounds have been proudly cared for, and recently updated with a stunning addition and renovations. Offered for $3,950,000
Offered for $1,050,000
Spring Hill
A rare and beautiful example of a barn renovation with re-imagined vaulted spaces, with a pool and outbuildings perfectly positioned on 90 acres in Upper Bucks County. Offered for $4,500,000
Melrose Lane
Like a blank canvas which begs for an artist’s dreams, these premier lots provide the setting for your ideal estate, custom crafted by builder Myron Haydt. Packages start at $3,450,000
Twin Ponds Manor
Tucked away on nearly 4 private acres in Lower Saucon Twp, this remarkable property offers a rare combination of natural beauty, historic character, & modern comfort. Offered for $875,000
Molasses Creek Farm
Expansive 58-acre property in Bucks County. The updated farmhouse is complemented by an outdoor kitchen, pool, pool house, 5-stall bank barn & indoor riding arena. Offered for $4,000,000
Timbertop Lodge
This sprawling 13,000 sqft estate includes fine craftsman and modern amenities, including an indoor pool, commercial size gym & expansive kitchen. Offered for $2,300,000
Bethlehem Star
An 1835 brick home on one of Historic Bethlehem’s most admired streets. This charming building is an amazing opportunity to invest in a highly visible & high volume location. Offered for $650,000
DELICIOUS DINING
With so many restaurants to choose from, we offer a dining experience for every taste. Savor a perfectly cooked steak at Chop House at Wind Creek. Enjoy contemporary American cuisine at Urban Table. Discover fresh Asian cuisine at Chopstick. Or stop by Bethlehem Barrel & Drafthouse for elevated pub fare, and more.
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
Homes That Live Better
coastal, country, cozy vibes at Lovely by Brianna, pg. 24
My Kind of People
May is always a fun edition to put together because the theme is “People of the Valley.” This means that anything— and anyone—goes, but this month we don’t have just anyone. We talked with the three women who are leading Southside Bethlehem’s public schools, meeting various challenges with grace and lifting up their community; learn more about these educators on pg. 42. We also spoke with Jason King Jones, the artistic director of the Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival, which is just about to kick off its 35th year, and you can read about him on pg. 37. And, in a brush with fame, fashion and style, we were graciously invited into the home of Lehigh Valley native and Emmy Award winner Carson Kressley.
The Style team spent several hours with Kressley on a warm March day at his Western Lehigh County abode. It was beautifully and thoughtfully decorated, featuring many pieces from his new collaboration with home decor giant Ballard Designs; see the images we captured and learn more about Kressley’s line (and where he shops locally!) on pg. 46. In addition, we have outdoor decor tips from Donna Dentner of Bucks Country Gardens on pg. 27, a recipe from chef Janaja D. Harris on pg. 82, wellness info from Reiki master teacher Andrea Brock on pg. 31 and much more in this edition of Lehigh Valley Style
In great company,
ANGELA VENNEMANN editor@lehighvalleystyle.com
lvstyleangela
our publisher, Pam Deller, is looking forward to this month! pdeller@lehighvalleystyle.com
24 A shopping trip to Lovely by Brianna.
Refreshing my outdoor space.
Apps and drinks at 1812 Piano Lounge!
BTS with Carson Kressley
A good experience leads to a great recommendation. After all, when you’re satisfied or happy with something, you tell others. It’s only natural. That’s why we’re proud that patient satisfaction exceeds 90% across a variety of services, with patients reporting they are overwhelmingly satisfied and willing to recommend us to others. That’s a big compliment and one that makes striving for the highest patient satisfaction always a high priority.
Visit goodshepherdrehab.org/satisfaction to learn more.
VOLUME
26, ISSUE 5
President/CEO
Paul Prass
Vice President/COO Lisa Prass
Beverly Bradley was my high school typing teacher. She was this tiny woman overflowing with positive energy and served as a great role model for the young women in our class. She later founded Cops ‘n’ Kids, a children’s literacy program that has distributed over a million free books to children and adults. She’s a superstar in every way!
My tenth-grade math teacher, Mrs. McFarland! She was always the teacher I could go to for silly advice and when I needed a break from everything else!
My favorite teacher was Mr. Tucker in ninth grade who taught British literature. He gave me the insight to see that there was a world of excellent thought beyond our own country.
My favorite teacher was my first-grade teacher, Mrs. Espinosa! She ended up becoming my second-grade teacher as well. Her unwavering kindness and support helped mold me into the person I am today!
I had a lot of great teachers at Holy Family School in Nazareth. One standout was Mrs. O’Callaghan. Everyone called her Mrs. O. She cultivated in me a love for writing, as well as a knowledge of grammar rules. I’ll never mix up “it’s” and “its” again.
Publisher Pamela Deller
Managing Editor Angela Vennemann
Digital Strategy Director Brianna Berner
Production Coordinator Eleanor Anderson
Graphic Designers
Eleanor Anderson, Thomas Körp, Elaine Wyborski
Marketing & Events Coordinator Jaiden Vazquez
Marketing Advisors
Denise Lichty, Arielle Solliday, Pam Taylor
Client Specialist Emily Markovich
Contributing Writers
Alison Conklin, Susan Gottshall, Heather Mayer Irvine
Amy Unger, Daisy Willis
Contributing Photographers
Marco Calderon, Matthew Cannon, Alison Conklin
Editorial Intern
Maggie Wilson
Proofreader Lori McLaughlin
Accounting
Jobelle Aleño, Leza Ovten
I had the best fifth-grade teacher, Mr. Bethel. He was young, relatable and taught us how to be kind and see things through others’ eyes. He was also a great artist!
Mr. White was my fifth-grade science teacher. Every Monday we had to cut articles out from the Boston Globe’s Health and Science section and tape them on construction paper to present to the class. I went into health and science reporting. He came to my wedding and we are still in touch, 28 years later.
I will never forget the late Alan Antry, my sixth-grade teacher at Gov. Wolf Elementary in Bethlehem. He opened our eyes to the natural world and taught us not to be afraid of things we didn’t understand. Whether letting us handle a boa constrictor or leading us on nighttime hikes, he replaced fear with curiosity.
MARCO CALDERON
Contributing Photographer
Photographing Carson Kressley for Lehigh Valley Style was a meaningful moment in my path as a photographer. I’m truly grateful for the opportunity and for how wonderful he was to work with. His sense of design and style naturally completed the vision of the shoot, and his warmth made the entire session a genuinely pleasant experience.
AMY UNGER
Contributing Writer
I think there are still a lot of people in the Lehigh Valley who are unaware of what a gem the Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival truly is. This is world-class theater right here in our backyard: classic fare, new material and everything in between. I can still vividly remember a production of Dracula I saw there back in 2008. It has stuck with me, all these years later.
Live Well
PRESENTED BY ST. LUKE’S UNIVERSITY HEALTH NETWORK
Located at the Delta Hotels by Marriott Allentown
Lehigh Valley Style’s Live Well: A Day of Beauty and Balance was held at Delta Hotels by Marriott Allentown on Sunday, Mar. 8, 2026. Guests enjoyed interactive experiences with local beauty and wellness experts along with Dip Into Wellness and Lip Filler demos presented by St. Luke’s University Health Network. Guests also enjoyed an Express Boxing Foundations class by Boxology, Pickleball 101 by Pickleball Kingdom and a Fitness Assessment by GYMGUYZ.
1 | St. Luke’s University Health Network demonstration 2 | Lip filler demonstration by St. Luke’s University Health Network
6 | Hair curling with A Salon by Alyssa Rader 7 | Throwing punches at the Boxology fitness class! 8 | Talessa Aesthetics & Wellness team
9 | Live Well PR bags 10 | Brow touch ups by Reverie Beauty Studio 11 | The Med Spa at St. Luke’s team 12 | Guests with Lee Robustelli from Boxology 13 | Guests at Tricia Vermilya Aesthetics table 14 | Kim Owens from Zenlightful Snacks 15 | Pickleball 101 at Pickleball Kingdom
Style I nsider Happy Hour
Located at Yianni’s Taverna
1 | Mike Zweifel, Andrea Lee DeJesus and Terrie Hoffman 2 | Nick Albenzi, Madelyn Mondschein and Tammy Albenzi 3 | Nick Bialis, Krista Berardelli and Sherri Kershner 4 | Patricia Mann and Olympia Jones 5 | Patti Sweeney and Mary Beth Carey 6 | Nicos Elias and Genny Elias 7 | Evan Johnson and Megan Marzella 8 | Steve Schey, Jeannie Schey, Nancy Gill and Marda Smith 9 | Ron and Mary Rogozinski, Donna and John Barry 10 | Lori Starnes, Lisa Meszler and Megan Mays 11 | Diego Veras, Genny Elias and Michael Pierce 12 | Kim Muzzin, Jeremy Brescia and Chris Gillis 13 | April Wozniak and Bernadette Rabel 14 | April Bergstrom and Wendy Keim 15 | David Hish and Gi Cobordo 16 | Tracy and Kris Weiss
The Best Around
To the surprise of absolutely no one in the Lehigh Valley, Musikfest has been named the top music festival in the country according to a poll in USA Today. The iconic event beat out other famous festivals like Lollapalooza and the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival. artsquest.org/musikfest
FOR THE GIRLS
BBB Fitness & Wellness in Moore Township, open since January, is the Valley’s newest women-only gym. The venture promises a comfortable environment where women can train and feel confident, supported and powerful. bbbfitnessandwellness.com
SPRING ON THE FARM
Get a jump on your spring planting with the Monocacy Farm Project’s sixth annual Spring on the Farm event on Saturday, May 9. Score plants from their greenhouse and check out local food and craft vendors, farm tours and exhibitors. Free parking and admission!
MonocacyFarmProject
Calling all bookworms— check out the new book shop in Downtown Bethlehem. Semicolon Books can be found on the lower level of Main Street Commons, where you can browse a large selection of titles and enjoy coffee and tea in a cozy reading nook. semicolonbooks.co
Reopened
After a November fire damaged the kitchen of its Bethlehem location, Pints & Pies the Neighborhood Pub is back open and ready to serve patrons again. Stop by to grab a craft beer and a from-scratch pizza to enjoy outside under their pergola! pintsandpiespub.com
Cheers!
Cellar Beast Winehouse is coming this spring to The Y on Broadway in Jim Thorpe with a new satellite tasting room. Guests can come in to sample the winery’s selection by the glass or by the bottle, and beer and cocktails will be on offer as well. cellarbeastwine.com
VERA CAFE
TURKISH COFFEE, TREATS AND MORE
If you’re coming down Easton’s Ferry Street, it’s easy to miss Vera Cafe, but we suggest you don’t. This small but cozy spot tucked between 3rd & Ferry Fish Market and Albanesi Restaurant & Bar is full of Turkish hospitality, not to mention the Turkish coffees and bites on offer. Co-owners BJ Gumus and Eren Bala were inspired by the cafe culture of Istanbul, where Bala says “coffee is not rushed, but lived with.” Gumus adds, “ It's not big, not commercial, not like a Starbucks. The taste is always what brings people inside.” Their signature coffees, made from a specialty roast by Allentown’s Mad Catter Coffee Roasters, include the Golden Horn Latte (sea salt, honey and butter), the iced Citrus Nero (orange juice, espresso, vanilla and brown sugar), the customer favorite Tahini Latte (organic tahini and honey) and the Dubai Chocolate Mocha (pistachio cream and chocolate syrup). Vera Cafe also offers drip coffee and espresso drinks, plus Turkish coffee, herbal teas and fresh baked goods. Beginning this month, the cafe’s patio is open, and a full menu is launching with savory bites and sandwiches inspired by the flavors of Turkey, Italy and the Mediterranean.
237 Ferry St., Easton | 610.400.3205 | vera.cafe
THIRSTY TURTLE TAVERN
BOOZY
BRUNCH NOW AVAILABLE
Whether you’re looking for the hair of the dog after a late night or just an excuse to knock back a mimosa or Bloody Mary with some friends, the Thirsty Turtle Tavern has you covered—the Whitehall joint is now offering a “Boozy Brunch” on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The tavern is offering “delicious brunch favorites, great vibes and the perfect way to kick off your day with friends.” The fare ranges from lighter bites like Avocado Toast and BYO Omelette to heartier meals like the Tex-Mex Hangover Bowl (potatoes, peppers, onions, corn, beans, chorizo and cheddar jack cheese topped with two sunny-side-up eggs, pico de gallo, avocado, green onions, chipotle aioli and cotija cheese). Crème Brûlée French Toast and Nutella Pizza will satisfy your sweet tooth, and it all pairs perfectly with the tavern’s extensive cocktail menu, featuring four flavors of mimosas (try them all in a flight!), two Bloody Marys, a spiked coffee and more. Enjoy it all in the cool indoors or, if the weather suits, on their dog-friendly patio. Because great minds think alike, this brunch is pretty popular—reservations are recommended.
Angie Fenstermaker and Stacy Hein know more than a little bit about yoga and wellness. They each had launched their own yoga studios in the past—Hein’s Tribe Yoga in Fogelsville and Fenstermaker’s Yoga Tone Studios in Emmaus—but when their paths crossed, they say they developed a “harmonious partnership that emphasizes a holistic approach to wellness, integrating nutrition, traditional yoga and strength training.” The result of that partnership, Bambu Yoga and Rooted Nutrition Center, opened in late winter in Emmaus as an all-in-one answer to whole-body wellness. Fenstermaker and Hein offer traditional yoga classes—Ashtanga, yin and gentle—as well as strength training classes, and they host holistic workshops, trainings and events based on nutrition, weight management and mindfulness. Bambu and Rooted’s intimate studio space and small class sizes set them apart from typical high-volume studios, allowing their clients to truly connect with their bodies and embrace wellness. “We prioritize mindful self-awareness over fleeting trends, fostering a safe environment where individuals can cultivate a fulfilling and joyful life,” Fenstermaker says. “This makes our community an ideal choice for those seeking a compassionate space for transformation rather than merely a place to exercise.”
FORMULA FOUR FITNESS
FITNESS BRAND RELAUNCHES
For 26 years, Body Elite has been a cornerstone of serious fitness. Now, rebranding as Formula Four Fitness, the gym signals more than a new name—it’s a renewed mission. Co-founder Steve Vassallo explains, “We served our clients at Body Elite well for 26 years and built so many great relationships. Now, I want to build on that foundation by adding more ways to help more people live the life they want.”
That evolution is driven by a sharper system and deeper expertise. Co-founder and operating partner Bill Stump says, “Everyone starts with a comprehensive assessment. We evaluate posture, functional mobility, flexibility and strength so we can customize programs that drive results.”
At the core is Formula Four Fitness, built on pillars of posture, mobility, strength and recovery. “We assess the body. Correct dysfunction. Build strength. Maintain flexibility,” Vassallo says. The private, never-overcrowded 7,900-squarefoot Tilghman Street facility supports that focus. Rooted in Allentown, the mission is simple: clients feel stronger, supported—and limitless.
After operating for more than a decade, first in Downtown Easton and then at Promenade Saucon Valley, SmARTivities Showcase is moving into a larger space at the Promenade and embracing a fresh chapter. Owner April Khalil says the move was both strategic and organic. “We were contacted by the Promenade to discuss doing activities in the center, and [we] learned that they have a local business program and that sparked this opportunity.” Ultimately, she adds, “We are more centrally located with more accessibility for our customers now.” The new space brings meaningful upgrades. “It contains more space for all of our activities and artist market,” Khalil explains, including “a dedicated space for pottery painting… a separate classroom and party space… and a larger pottery studio.” They will soon be starting a studio membership, “which enables experienced potters to come for open studio hours to work on practice or projects in their own time,” says Khalil. At its heart, the mission remains constant: “We want to make art accessible to everyone of all ages and abilities.” From walk-in projects to pottery wheel classes, SmARTivities is designed as “an inclusive space… where everyone can explore their creative side,” says Khalil.
3045 Center Valley Pkwy. Suite 103, Center Valley 610.674.1011 | smartivitiesshowcase.com
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Lovely by Brianna
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARCO CALDERON
It’s a coastal, country, cozy dream come true for Brianna Lasko, owner of Lovely by Brianna in Historic Downtown Bethlehem. Offering home decor with roots beyond the Lehigh Valley, the boutique is a one-of-a-kind spot with unexpected finds on Main Street.
QTell us a little about your background and how you came to launch Lovely by Brianna!
I have always wanted to open a home decor boutique for as long as I can remember. I had just given my resignation as a teacher when the most perfect spot became available on Main Street in Downtown Bethlehem. I knew it was meant to be and it was definitely time to take the leap!
What would you say is the vibe in your store?
My vibe is coastal, country, cozy. I absolutely love the beach, so I thought, why not bring some beach to Bethlehem? We lived in Texas for about five years so I also wanted to incorporate some country into my store. And cozy because I love all things cozy!
How do you curate your merchandise?
I carefully hand-select each item that I bring into my store. I look for good quality and think of my buyers as I make my choices. If I don’t love it, I won’t buy it. I also love supporting other small businesses, too. That makes it a win-win.
What are some of your more popular items?
During the summer, I sell a lot of beach items. Anything from seashell holders to beach towels and beach bags to adorable beach decor for your home.
Is there anything customers might be surprised to see in Lovely by Brianna?
I think the country vibe of my store takes people by surprise. The cowboy shooters, the “Y’all” pillows and my countrywestern selection of matches are always a hit!
What do you love about your location in Historic Downtown Bethlehem?
You can’t beat being right across from Historic Hotel Bethlehem. There’s always something fun happening, from the cocktail and chocolate trails to the parades and huge events like the Celtic Classic and Musikfest. The Christmas season is absolutely magical.
Do you host any special sales or events?
During the trails and holidays, I always like to offer special discounts and giveaways. I have a gorgeous courtyard out back behind my store that I love to open up to my customers. I have done pop-ups out there from other small businesses. I’ve hosted art classes, and this year I plan to teach handlettering classes!
Are there any new products or brands you’re bringing into Lovely by Brianna as we head into the summer?
I will be bringing back some beach favorites to lean more into the coastal vibe! This range covers everything from pillows and beach towels to tea towels and decor pieces, all with a beautiful beach vibe.
What has the community response been since you’ve opened, and what does that mean to you?
People’s responses have blown me away. Many jaws drop when they come through my door because it is unexpected to see a beach shop in the middle of Downtown Bethlehem. I am still working on getting my name out there, so a lot of people are still surprised when they walk in!
What is your favorite part of the customer experience at Lovely by Brianna?
I’ve gotten to know many of my customers. I hear their stories. I know who they are buying for and why. Honestly, hearing everyone’s stories is probably my favorite part. It’s a pure connection that I always want to be a part of.
Anything else you’d like to note?
I am constantly getting in new and exciting inventory (literally the best part of my job). I always want to have something for everyone. Shop for yourself and your home or shop for that special gift for someone else.
450 Main St., Bethlehem lovelybybrianna.com lovelybybrianna_llc
DESIGNING OUTDOOR LIVING SPACE
BY DAISY WILLIS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARCO CALDERON
Donna Dentner
LIFESTYLE BUYER, BUCKS COUNTRY GARDENS
Be it a hemmed-in strip of grass or a sprawling deck, this advice from Donna Dentner, lifestyle buyer for Bucks Country Gardens, will equip you to create or perfect your sanctuary outside.
THE FOUNDATION
It’s so tempting to latch onto a cool patio set, especially when it’s mocked up to look like your ideal outdoor oasis, but Dentner says start with a plan, not a purchase: “Know what your vision is and buy for the space.”
One way to conceptualize what you want outside is to start inside. Consider the room that lets out onto your outdoor space and plan to continue the color palette and style of that room to make moving outdoors feel comfortably coherent.
If the space isn’t quite speaking to you, start small with two chairs and an end table, and as you spend time on your property, you’ll get a feel for what you need and want to furnish and decorate it.
MATERIALS
When it comes to patio furniture, the best investments are wellprotected to endure the elements. “Our most popular material,” Dentner says, “is the copper-coated aluminum frames.” They’re easy to touch up and don’t show scratches as well. And synthetic wicker carries that nice woven look and comfort without fading.
SUMMER FUN Your source for
ASK THE
However, Bucks Country Gardens is also selling a lot of wood lately. “Younger people are going back to the earth,” Dentner says. “They want things that make them feel natural.”
Bucks Country Gardens sources its wood furniture from sustainable harvesters, and because wood naturally fades and cracks in weather, they focus on the toughest hardwoods available, so beautiful that you won’t mind giving them a yearly oiling.
AESTHETICS
Where style is concerned, gray palettes are giving way to warm, natural shades, like sand, taupe and green, especially olive. “Stick with solid, calming colors for the big pieces,” Dentner says. “Your personality will come through with pillows and accessories that are easy to swap.”
Having the option to shift things around and make way for a variety of events means modular sectionals are trending, with transitional and mid-century modern styles coming through in outdoor furniture.
Dentner stocks the more fashionforward as well as traditional styles because ultimately, the look you want is whatever invites you to relax!
SPACING SOLUTIONS
With a lengthy deck or patio, you might be dealing with several rooms’ worth of space. “A featured item makes a zone,” Dentner says. A fire pit can create a lounging area while an outdoor carpet or arching umbrella anchors the dining table. “We always suggest you coordinate furniture between zones for a flowing space.”
Outdoor carpets have come a long way, with beautiful designs in synthetics and sisal that stand up well to weather. Umbrellas can be side-mounted to keep that post out of the way, and curtained pergolas offer another adjustable option.
For limited spaces, storage bins not only hold seating cushions or toys, they can also serve as buffet tables. Tables with built-in leaves are an option outdoors, too.
Some of Dentner’s most popular items are actually the dining surfaces that convert into fire pits, especially the barheight version.
SOUND & LIGHT
The quality of light is an undeniable accent to your outdoor evenings. “I love lighting,” Dentner gushes. “It should set the mood and draw attention to the landscape, not itself.”
Dramatic uplighting on a Japanese maple and patio carnival lights are evergreen options, with solar power serving all year round. “Young kids love the freestanding solar lamps that can change color,” she says. Let them flip from purple to blue to green and then go back to a warm white when the kids are in bed.
Clamp lights including a speaker are perfect for the umbrella pole and can be moved up for ambiance or down to get a better look at your board game. “We’re doing more outdoor sound systems,” Dentner remarks. “The technology has come along so they’re weatherproof.”
THE LIVING LANDSCAPE
Of course, a major part of the outdoor scene is the foliage. A smart choice for less maintenance is to use perennials and slow-growing evergreens that won’t demand as much pruning as, say, the effusive hydrangea.
“We have a program where we design the plastic pot drop-ins for customers’ containers,” Dentner says. By delivery or pickup, you can get the insert for your pots at home all set up and switch them out between seasons with absolute ease. Red geraniums are the most popular flowers, while a lot of customers have also been opting for all-white “moon garden” designs.
For all the inspiration that’s just been laid out, remember: an outdoor space isn’t built overnight. Start with pruning and planting this weekend, and begin to lay your five-year plans for the perfect pergola or pool!
buckscountrygardens.com
Andrea Brock
REIKI
MASTER TEACHER
These days, it seems like everyone is in need of emotional regulation. When the stress of life gets you down, sometimes something as simple as an energy shift is enough to lift you back up. Andrea Brock helps her clients harness that energy into peace with her Reiki practice, and she tells us all about how and why she offers this modality to her clients.
QTell us about what Reiki is and how you came to practice it.
Reiki is a Japanese energy healing and relaxation practice that supports the body’s natural ability to restore balance. The word itself translates to “universal life force energy.” Energy and wisdom from above, combined with magnetic energy drawn from the earth that pulses through all living things—a perfect blend that supports health and well-being on physical, mental, emotional and spiritual levels.
I first experienced Reiki over 25 years ago during a time when I was going through a major life change and was under extreme stress. To this day, without exaggeration, I truly believe it prevented me from reaching a breaking point. I decided then that I was going to learn Reiki to be able to pay it forward and really help people.
I’ve now been practicing for over 23 years and teaching for 16 years. What continues to inspire me is watching people reconnect with their own sense of peace, inner authority and joy.
During a session, clients are fully clothed lying on a massage table. I place my hands lightly on or just above the body to facilitate relaxation and help regulate the nervous system. Clients often report feeling warmth from my hands and will experience a variety of sensations. For example, I may be at their head and they feel soothing, tingly energy in a different area of their body.
What are some health benefits associated with Reiki?
Chronic stress plays a significant role in many health challenges. Reiki promotes deep relaxation, which allows the body to shift out of fight-or-flight mode and into a parasympathetic healing state. When that happens, we often see reduced stress and anxiety, improved sleep, lower muscle tension, pain relief, emotional and mental clarity and a greater sense of calm and focus. While Reiki is not a replacement for medical care, many clients report feeling more resilient, balanced and better able to navigate life.
Can Reiki be used as a complement to treatments that are seen as more traditional or mainstream?
Absolutely. Many of my clients receive Reiki alongside traditional medical care or therapy. It truly takes a village. I’ve had therapists and doctors refer their clients and patients to me because Reiki supports nervous system regulation and relaxation, which can enhance recovery and overall well-being. I also have clients who are doctors and medical professionals, and many nurses have taken my Reiki classes to incorporate this modality into their care.
What do your clients feel after a session with you?
Most people describe feeling deeply relaxed—some have described it as a “forced meditation”—almost like they’ve taken a restorative nap while remaining aware. Others report peace, clarity, emotional release and a lighter feeling in their body. In that relaxed state, some have found answers to dilemmas
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARCO CALDERON
or challenges they’ve been facing. Each session is unique, but the common thread is a sense of coming back to themselves— feeling centered, lighter and empowered.
What other healing practices do you offer?
In addition to Reiki sessions and certification classes, I offer meditation experiences including sound baths, as well as customized coaching and transformational workshops designed to give people practical tools they can apply in daily life.
My background includes training in modalities such as PSYCH-K® , which supports whole-brain integration for shifting subconscious patterns, along with advanced studies in NeuroLinguistic Programming (NLP). I also hold certifications in empowerment coaching, allowing me to support clients not only energetically, but with practical, results-oriented tools for real-life change. My approach blends energy work with nervous system regulation and personal development tools so clients leave feeling restored, empowered and with a game plan.
Tell us about your morning routine. What’s something you can’t start your day without?
I start my morning mindfully and quietly. I take a few minutes to breathe, stretch and set an intention for the day. I visualize what that looks like and intentionally create what that feels like in my body. I will smile and feel gratitude in my body. A warm shower is nonnegotiable—it’s very meditative for me. Did I also mention coffee? I love to play upbeat music while I’m getting ready and dancing to raise my energy, starting the day with fun to set the tone. When I check my phone, it’s only briefly to see messages—no doomscrolling!
How about your evening routine?
I often work or take online classes into the evening. When I finish, I start downshifting into coziness. I keep most lights off, limit screen time, stop answering messages and sometimes enjoy music or a cup of herbal tea. By candlelight, I go through an evening ritual of applying my Young Living essential oils and creams. It’s a very
nurturing and sacred time. I surround myself with soft, cozy textures and peace. In bed, I set a timer for 15 minutes to read and extend it when I feel like it. Nothing is forced. If reading isn’t enough to relax me and turn off my brain, I will watch a comedy show on TV or something uplifting. While that is not usually recommended, you must find what works for you. Being rigid is self-defeating.
What are some healthy habits you like to practice throughout the day?
I make sure I have time between clients to recharge. Sometimes that includes a 10-minute cat nap during which I usually get great inspirations. I call it sleepworking! Staying hydrated and eating healthy snacks are essential. I also go outside, sometimes to eat, even if just for a few moments to soak up nature, observe the wildlife and breathe. Daily physical activity is also essential, and I love walking. I have also learned to celebrate accomplishments throughout the day, no matter how small. A state of pleasure and gratitude creates a deeply fulfilling and satisfying life.
What’s something you like to indulge in?
Yummy food, meaningful and mindstretching conversations, time with close friends and interesting people. I love to laugh! Music, comedy events and theater are so important to me. And tango lessons with Urszula Abolik at Amber Connection in Emmaus—that’s my happy place.
What’s one takeaway you’d like to share?
When you regulate your nervous system and clear emotional weight, you don’t just feel calmer—you feel more alive. You laugh more. You create more. You show up differently in relationships and work. That is the foundation of authentic, soulful living. Taking a moment to pause and honestly reflect— Is my life working for me? Am I thriving or just surviving? can be powerful. You don’t have to overhaul your entire life. One honest reflection and one aligned decision can begin a completely different trajectory. The shift begins the moment you decide that your peace is non-negotiable.
andreabrockhealing.com
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Preview artwork in our galleries beginning: May 11, 2026
Auction Premiere Party: Saturday, May 16, 2026
Online Bidding Begins: Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 6:30pm — Saturday, May 23, 2026 | 10:00pm
Jason King Jones
ARTISTIC DIRECTOR, PENNSYLVANIA SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL
BY AMY UNGER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALISON CONKLIN
What could a playwright who was alive 400 years ago possibly have to say about the problems that vex contemporary society? When that playwright is William Shakespeare—the Bard, the Swan of Avon—plenty, it turns out. But don’t take our word for it. “In so many ways, Shakespeare still speaks to us. His themes, the things that he talks about in his plays, are still incredibly relevant,” says Jason King Jones. And Jones—informally known as JKJ to his inner circle—would know. He’s now in his fourth year as artistic director of the Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival (PSF), the widely acclaimed live theater event that draws tens of thousands of people to the campus of DeSales University every summer.
He arrived in the Lehigh Valley with a robust resume, including ten years at Maryland’s Olney Theatre Center, where he served as senior associate artistic director as well as artistic director of its classical touring company, National Players. But long before Jones stepped into the realm of producer and director, he was getting acquainted with Shakespeare and the rest of the greats as an actor.
Jones grew up in Nixa, Missouri—Ozarks territory—and developed an interest in theater in high school. He figured he’d pursue it further in college, not as an actor but as a teacher. “There wasn’t a lot of professional theater in southwest Missouri, except for I guess [what] you could call Branson kind of professional entertainment,” he says. “But when I was around, it was country music singers retiring. That was kind of it for the entertainment. So, I knew that if I was going to have a job, it was going to be in education.”
But a mentor at Southwest Missouri State University (now known as Missouri State University) convinced Jones to take the performance route, and he did. Post-graduation he was living in New York City and touring the country as part of the famed Acting Company, with alumni that include Kevin Kline, Patti LuPone, Jeffrey Wright and Jesse L. Martin. It’s a chapter in his life that has yielded more than a few anecdotes. There was the time the company performed Richard III at Edwards Air Force Base in California. Or the time they were putting on Jane Eyre in Pittsburgh and had to get creative to keep a giant box on wheels that was part of the set from rolling away on the sloped surface.
Another memory: when a smallerthan-expected performance space in Virginia forced them to dramatically (and quickly) pare down the scenery. Flop sweat aside, Jones recalls it as “one of the most satisfying experiences, because the artists were able to really own the show, tell the story with the very few elements that we had… and I think the audience felt like they were seeing something special, because they were seeing a version of it that no one else had.”
In his early 30s, Jones, by then married to Josiane, with one daughter, Gwen, at home, went to graduate school at Boston University and got an MFA in directing, which led to his lengthy gig at Olney Theatre. After seeing the organization
through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, he was looking for new opportunities. He applied for and landed the job at PSF and moved his family, which by then also included a son, Elliot, to Center Valley.
The year 2026 is a special one for the festival, which is marking its 35th year, as well as its 30 th year as the official Shakespeare festival of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Of course, it happens to be a milestone year for the US, too, with America 250 celebrations planned in every corner of the country. With the convergence of all of these anniversaries in mind, PSF adopted the theme of “Legends and Legacy” for its ten-week slate of programming from May 27 through Aug. 2. “We wanted to think about ways that we could really celebrate the legacy of this organization, the legacy of theater-making in the community, and just our own shared sense of… as we always look forward, we have an eye toward the past,” Jones says.
Jones, who co-leads the organization alongside managing director Casey Gallagher, serves as steward for the nineshow slate, overseeing everything from deciding what makes it into the lineup to casting the actors to hiring all the directors and designers. This year, he’s also directing Shakespeare’s classic Romeo and Juliet, and he’s written a new play, Sheila the Magical, a sequel to a show he wrote last summer. The latter obviously falls into the category of “non-Shakespeare”; while the Bard may get top billing, his stories are certainly not the only ones told at the festival.
This year’s selections also include August Wilson’s The Piano Lesson; The Complete Works of Jane Austen, Abridged, by Jessica Bedford, Kathryn MacMillan, Charlotte Northeast and Meghan Winch; and the musical Million Dollar Quartet, about a recording session featuring four rock-and-roll greats.
And yet, Jones sees all the productions as direct descendants of Shakespeare’s era in Elizabethan England. “Shakespeare’s plays have music in them,” he says. “They have fights, they have massive love stories, they have these epic battle scenes. They have all this stuff. And the plays and musicals that we do now, I think we’re inspired in so many ways by that kind of storytelling.”
During Jones’s tenure, PSF has expanded its offerings to include the “Play On!” Community Tour, which brings free
performances of Shakespeare’s As You Like It to libraries, parks and community centers across the region; Shakespeare For Kids, a high-energy, one-hour production specifically designed for children ages 4 to 10 that is staged at local libraries; and the once-a-year, free Community Day, featuring entertainment, food and family-friendly activities. “I think that for our survival, we need to be continuing to look at ways that we can be drawing in a younger audience and making it cool to come hang out at a Shakespeare festival,” says Jones. “That’s not to dismiss our legacy audience. Some of them have been with us for 35 years, which is fantastic. I asked the question, ‘What made them start coming to the festival 35 years ago?’ And then how can we be that festival for the next person who is in their 30s and 40s, so that we can keep [them] with us for another 35 years?
We really want to make sure that our doors are open and we have access to everybody who wants to be a part of our community, whatever age they are.”
Something else that’s essential to the longevity of a nonprofit is its fundraising. The Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival relies heavily on donations, grants and sponsorships. Jones says it was important to him to live in the Lehigh Valley and not outside its borders so that he could get to know the people who are the primary audience for the stage magic that unfurls every summer, thanks to a little help from the Bard and a lot of work from the small but mighty team at PSF.
“What I found here in the Lehigh Valley is a really great sense of community and people who want to get together and want to gather and want to be a part of something,” Jones says. “I think that when we do this work here at PSF, and as we’re looking to find ways to get more involved in the community, what I’m seeing is a passion to make that happen and to find more ways that we can gather and be together.”
pashakespeare.org
THE LATEST FROM Local Authors
BY DAISY WILLIS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CAFTOR / ADOBE STOCK
Writers in the Lehigh Valley area have been busily putting fingers to keyboard to tell their stories, and these books are the result. An inspiring memoir, a Gothic mystery and hardearned advice make must-reads for this summer.
1. ZIGZAG GIRL
by Rut h Knafo Setton
This supernatural whodunit set amid the bright lights and dark shadows of Atlantic City follows the daughter of magicians— who has become a magician herself—as her stage show becomes the scene of a shocking crime she’s determined to solve. Lucy Moon’s investigation leads her to uncover long-buried secrets as history and mystery intertwine.
2. HEART ACTIVATION TOOLKIT
by Tami Jean
This interactive guide to a holistic healer’s gathered wisdom will appeal to those who want to put some intentional time into their own well-being. From coloring and journal prompt pages to meditations audible through included hyperlinks, this book invites you to connect to yourself for healing.
3. MOM TRUTHS: THE S#!T NO ONE TALKS ABOUT
by Crystal Lynette Rance
Motherhood is a beautiful blessing, a celebrated sacrifice, a—record scratch brutal ordeal. These raw and honest stories come from moms confronting the realities of procreation, from the pinnacles of love and connection to the nadirs of overwhelm when things go horribly wrong. Send stigmas packing and find solidarity here.
4. BELONGING TO BETHLEHEM
by Jennifer Lader
The voices of Jewish members of the Bethlehem community have a special place in this collection put together by a storyteller who interviewed almost 100 residents to explore their personal experiences over the course of a century. Unique and universal, their lives reflect the Christmas City as home.
5.
NEVER WALK AGAIN: MY TESTIMONY FROM WHEELCHAIR TO WORSHIP
by Gary Good
For the author of this memoir, a car crash and harsh prognosis had him at rock bottom. A devastating spinal cord injury brought seemingly insurmountable suffering without rhyme or reason, but he wrote his story to encourage others to find strength and persevere when it seems like there’s little hope.
THE SHELBY
THESHELBYHC
Join us this season on the dog-friendly patio at McCoole’s at the Historic Red Lion Inn. Enjoy great food and drinks while relaxing outdoors. A welcoming spot to gather with friends and family all season.
4 S. Main St., Quakertown | 215.538.1776 | mccoolesredlioninn.com
LAZEEZ FRESH MEDITERRANEAN GRILL
Lazeez Fresh Mediterranean Grill’s shawarma elevates Mediterranean dining with made-fromscratch, non-processed food. The team hand-builds its own shawarma cones daily, creating tender, authentic flavor. Fresh bowls, quality ingredients and true hospitality make this longtime Lehigh Valley favorite a standout among newer spots.
The Shelby reimagines modern American dining with refined cuisine, handcrafted cocktails and a polished yet inviting atmosphere. Blending elegance with warmth, it offers elevated hospitality and memorable experiences for every guest, from casual gatherings to milestone celebrations. 707 N. Krocks Rd., Allentown | 610.841.0808 | theshelbyrestaurant.com
Thirsty Turtle Tavern offers an upscale casual experience where vibrant energy meets inviting comfort. With an extensive menu, craft cocktails and a lively, sophisticated atmosphere, it’s the perfect setting for friends, family and colleagues to gather in Whitehall.
Building
Meet the trio of educators transforming three Southside Bethlehem schools into something much more than places to learn.
BETHLEHEM
By Amy Unger
There’s only one Bethlehem, Pennsylvania; a merger in 1917 of the boroughs of Bethlehem and South Bethlehem made sure of that. And yet, a lot of people who live south of the Lehigh River now will tell you their neighborhood has retained its distinctive grittiness and resilience, holdovers from those early days. Although Bethlehem Steel stopped churning out the H-beams that built America long ago, there’s a tremendous amount of community pride in those blue-collar roots. To be clear, there are many challenges here, too. The vast majority of children on Bethlehem’s Southside qualify for free or reduced-price lunches at school because they come from low-income households. But among the advocates in their corner are a trio of educators who understand their unique needs.
“Erin Martin-Medina, Brittany Reese and Elise Jones exemplify what it means to lead with both excellence and heart,” says Dr. Jack Silva, superintendent of Bethlehem Area School District (BASD). “Their work goes far beyond academics. They uplift families, advocate for children and create schools where students feel supported, valued and capable of achieving great things, and they do.”
All three women are principals of Southside schools that have been designated United Way Community Schools, meaning the buildings function more like hubs for the children and their families, providing them with support and services that go beyond basic education needs.
Reese is wrapping up her first year at the helm of Broughal Middle School; Jones is doing the same at Fountain Hill Elementary. Martin-Medina has had the top job at Donegan Elementary since 2019.
Lehigh Valley Style spoke to all three women about tackling modern-day challenges on the historic Southside, what they love most about what they do and what keeps them going when the going gets tough.
Photography by Marco Calderon
BRITTANY Reese
Brittany Reese, a Nazareth native, taught at schools in Allentown and Charleston, South Carolina, before finding her way to Bethlehem. “I like to say that I’m not necessarily built by Bethlehem, but I was raised by Broughal,” she says.
Reese joined the Broughal community in 2018, first as a social studies teacher and later serving as dean of students. She says it was quickly apparent that she was in a special place. “The people that are in this building are here because they want to be here and they believe in Broughal. And that’s just something that you can’t put a price on.”
And Reese knows the importance of leaning on that team, especially as a relative newbie in the principal role. “I’m not egotistical enough to think that I have it all figured out. I do not have it all figured out,” she says. “Hopefully, by year five or six, I’m going to have it a lot more figured out. But I’m proud to say that I might not be the most experienced principal in the district, but you’re not going to outwork me. I’m going to figure it out and make it happen for our kids.”
No two days on the job are the same, Reese says: “There’s a new challenge every day.” And so, those problems that require figuring out range from the expected, such as increasing student proficiency in literacy and math, to the unexpected, like helping a student whose family lost their house in a fire find somewhere else to stay, “so when this kid goes home, I know he’s coming back here,” says Reese.
Lunch supervisor duty probably doesn’t rank as a top-ten favorite activity for most educators, but Reese looks forward to it. “It’s an opportunity for connection,” she says. “And kids will connect when we let them. They want to know their voices are valued. Their voices matter here, and I want to be that champion for them.”
ELISEJones
Elise Jones grew up in Emmaus and went on to study education at Moravian College (now Moravian University) in Bethlehem, where she’s lived ever since. Prior to taking over as principal at Fountain Hill Elementary School, she held leadership positions at both elementary and middle schools in the Lehigh Valley, but outside Bethlehem.
When the position at Fountain Hill became available, “I just felt drawn to be part of the community where I live, part of the community where my kids go to school,” Jones says. “I saw a lot of the positive momentum in the Community School work that I believe so passionately in, in the Bethlehem Area School District.”
Perhaps one of the most pressing issues on her plate right now is helping the student body avoid a feeling of being unmoored; their aging school building was torn down last year. A new school is being built at the same site; in the meantime, operations have shifted to a temporary, two-building setup in Hanover Township.
“I think Fountain Hill is a place where we embrace the challenge daily to make sure that we’re trying to bridge those gaps between the community and the school,” Jones says. “Obviously, those gaps right now are larger than before because we’re not in the community, and it looks so different.”
The new and improved school, slated to open in the fall of 2027, will include a first-floor family center with a food pantry, clothing closet and community meeting spaces, aligning with the mission of going above and beyond for students and their families. “I do think that it’s much more than just providing that education,” says Jones. “We need to make sure that we’re looking at their needs, and that we have a good pulse on what our community requires from us.”
Jones said she’s most passionate about making education an equalizer for all students, regardless of background.
“When you get to be part of watching a student overcome an obstacle or growing, whether that’s academically or any other way, it’s just really special to be a part of that moment when the student is taking ownership of their path.”
Taking on the role of principal at Donegan Elementary School in 2019 was a homecoming of sorts for Erin MartinMedina, a product of the Bethlehem Area School District. “I was a Fountain Hill Elementary kid, a Broughal Middle School kid and a Liberty [High School] grad as well,” she says.
Martin-Medina can recall falling in love with teaching while an undergrad at Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia. She worked in the Allentown School District for many years before returning to Bethlehem. “I do think it’s really, really cool to be able to serve the community that kind of grew me as a student,” she says.
She sees the job of a principal as “very dynamic… super-multifaceted.” She’s making sure systems are in place so both teachers and students can thrive. The successful integration of those systems, and seeing the children meet and surpass their goals, is a source of great joy. Celebrating that “is probably one of the coolest parts of the job for me,” says Martin-Medina.
But, just like her BASD colleagues Reese and Jones, Martin-Medina is often fighting against forces outside of her control. “There are things happening at a larger community level,” she says. “On the Southside, there’s a housing crisis right now. We have families who are being pushed out. You have families who become homeless.” Food insecurity is another concern. But, thanks to the infrastructure in place as part of the Community School model, Martin-Medina and her team at Donegan can attack many of the challenges families are facing. “We’re trying to ensure that our kids have what they need to be able to attend school regularly and grow to their greatest potential, and really grow as learners and as leaders.”
Donegan Elementary, like Fountain Hill Elementary and Broughal Middle School, partners with Lehigh University for the Community Schools initiative. MartinMedina works closely with Lehigh’s coordinator to bring resources into the school and figure out how to best put them to work. One example is Lehigh students who serve as tutors at Donegan. “We figure out what is the strategy approach, or what is the instructional focus that we want the tutors to work on with these kiddos, so that the work they’re doing is really enhancing and pushing our students to where they need to get to.”
ERIN MartinMedina
The Power of T hree
There is power in numbers , and all three of the Southside principals expressed an eagerness to strengthen the partnership not just among their individual schools, but among themselves as principals, leading a collective student body of more than 1,400.
Joining forces does make practical sense— students from Donegan and Fountain Hill will eventually be walking the halls at Broughal—but it’s deeper than that.
“We’re really looking as a group of leaders and a group of schools to focus on the same items,” Jones says. “I’m really excited about the collaboration, the opportunity that we have with being the three Southside schools.”
Martin-Medina’s take: “I’m so excited to work with those other two ladies to really allow our kids to see their greatest potential on the Southside of Bethlehem.”
The feeling is mutual for Reese. “I love Erin, and then welcoming Elise on board… I think we’re really trying to strengthen our collaboration between the three buildings,” she says. “I’m really excited for what’s in store.”
Horse
POWERED
Emmy Award Winner and Lehigh Valley Native, Carson Kressley, Launches Home Design Line
BY HEATHER MAYER IRVINE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARCO CALDERON
GROOMING BY KIERSTEN JACOME / TRUE BEAUTY MARKS
ADDITIONAL DECOR STYLING BY JOHNNY WALSH / J. EDWARD DESIGN
Carson Kressley FaceTimed me as he described the hunt scene mural in his Lehigh Valley dining room. Words wouldn’t do it justice.
The mural wall covering was Kressley’s out-of-his-comfort-zone design decision: “This house is my second home,” he says. “And oh my gosh, what if I have to sell it? I’ll have to keep it really neutral. A lot of beige.”
But that just wasn’t making the equestrian and design expert happy. “So I threw caution to the wind. Who cares?” he says. “This was an important lesson. Your home is the only place in the world that you have total control of. Life is short. You might as well make it something that sparks joy.”
Kressley, an Emmy Award-winning TV personality, perhaps best known for the early aughts’ Queer Eye for the Straight Guy and RuPaul’s Drag Race, grew up in the Lehigh Valley and spent much of his formative years on his grandparents’ horse farm. (They would eventually have 200 ponies.)
SHIRT: HERMÈS PANTS: SUITSUPPLY JACKET: J. MCLAUGHLIN
For as long as he can remember, Kressley has loved horses—he was a member of the US Saddle Seat World Cup equitation team in 1999—and equestrian home design. After working with Ballard Designs, which has a store in Wayne, Pennsylvania, on several social media collaborations, Kressley pitched his own interior design line, with an equestrian vibe front and center.
“I love the unique and unusual,” Kressley says. “Everybody’s home should be a personal reflection of who they are, where they’ve been and the things they love.” Kressley, a longtime fan of Ballard Designs, says the brand offers not only the furniture and accessories that appeal to him, but the Atlanta-based company “allows people who are design savvy, or who are interested in design, to be their own decorator” with relatively affordable pieces.
Before this collaboration, the home furnishings and design company had also worked with Kressley on a decorating project at his farm. President Karen Mooney said she knew the design partnership was destined for success.
“Carson’s classic style and equestrian vibe blend beautifully with the well-traveled, continental flair that Ballard customers love in our designs,” Mooney said in a statement.
FOX HEAD BOOKENDS
SHIRT: RALPH LAUREN PURPLE LABEL DENIM: RAG & BONE
Design IS DESIGN
Kressley came up in the fashion world, but he has seamlessly transitioned into home and interior design. That’s because Kressley follows the same principles when pulling together an outfit as he does pulling together a room.
He uses the analogy of the Little Black Dress: that’s your workhorse (no pun intended); everything else works around the dress— earrings, statement necklace, bag, heels.
In the home, Kressley says, there are three workhorses: the sofa, the bed and the dining table.
“Buy the best quality you can afford [for those pieces] because they’re for a lifetime,” he says, noting those items should be neutral—“which doesn’t always mean beige.” This way, you’ll have versatility over the seasons and years.
EQUESTRIAN IS Timeless
WESTBURY BISTRO TABLE
GEOMETRIC SNAFFLE BIT JUTE RUG
Just ask Ralph Lauren, with whom Kressley worked decades ago. Kressley and the team at Ballard Designs spent two years developing his equestrian-forward line, which launched in February. Fashion trends are tricky, but Kressley says equestrian “never goes out of style.” And as luck would have it, he says, equestrian themes are incredibly popular right now. (It is the Year of the Horse in the Chinese zodiac.)
“Equestrian happens to be hot right now, so I’m thrilled,” Kressley says. “But that’s not why I [developed my line]. I’m not a fortune teller. It was something that’s authentic to me. It’s timeless and beautiful.”
Kressley’s own homes feature a variety of pieces with the horse theme front and center. He jokes (but isn’t really joking) that his finds are either high-end or from HomeGoods. (“I’m a regular at the HomeGoods in Trexlertown.”) Kressley’s favorite piece from his new line pays homage to a family heirloom he inherited from his grandparents’ farm.
“When they passed, we all chose an item or two, and I said I’d love to have that,” he says. The item, called the Stetson Wall Hook in the Ballard Designs catalog, is a brass rod with hooks for coats and hats, flanked by two brass horse heads.
“The original was in my grandparents’ hallway… I’d die to have something like that in my house.”
Today, Kressley has two replicas from the Ballard Designs line. The original is displayed prominently in his home’s entryway, covered in hats, scarves and horse tack.
" IT WAS SOMETHING THAT’S authentic TO ME."
MORE FROM BALLARD DESIGNS
BRIGHTON BAR CART
CISCO DRINK TABLE
BLAKE
SHIRT: POLO RALPH LAUREN PANTS: PIKEUR
BELT: R.E. FENNELL CO. BOOTS: AIGLE
OF THE HUNT Thrill
Kressley has learned that he will never regret buying an item for his home if he loves it. The rest will fall into place.
“My mantra is, if you see something and you love it, get it. It will work in your space,” he says. “Maybe it won’t work in the space you thought, but it will find a place.”
He references a large piece of artwork of Grace Kelly that’s sitting in his farmhouse hallway.
“She’s my spirit animal,” he says. The artwork is propped up against another piece of artwork.
“Is that ideal? No. But I get to walk by it every day, and that brings me joy. I’ll find a place for it eventually. Even if it means I have to buy another house.”
Kressley loves antiquing and thrifting. He frequents these Lehigh Valley(-ish) spots:
Renninger’s Antique and Farmer’s Market in Kutztown: “This is more of a flea market experience, but I’ve found some of my best finds and bargains there.” In his sunroom sit two wrought-iron chairs he bought at Renninger’s made from hundreds of horseshoes welded together. “I literally jumped for joy when I found those.”
Weil’s Doghouse Antiques in Allentown: The newly opened shop at the Parkway Shopping Center features higher-end items and a big variety of design styles, including mid-century and classic antiques.
Slatington Marketplace in Slatington: “It’s phenomenal,” with a large food court and farmers market.
HomeGoods in Trexlertown: This is where Kressley stocks up on design books and seasonal tabletop decor and dishes. “I need to be stopped.”
Bucks County Estate Traders in Hatfield: These estate sale finds tend to be very highend at deeply discounted prices. Kressley’s farmhouse features a Colonial table and Windsor chairs from Estate Traders.
LEHIGH VALLEY Inf luence
Kressley’s Lehigh Valley farm property, which is a working horse farm run by his sister and niece, is rich with Lehigh Valley pieces.
“This goes back to authenticity,” Kressley says. “I love the Lehigh Valley. It’s where I’m from. My family and most of my friends are still here.” Growing up on a farm that was “horse-centric,” he says, really informed his own style as well as the Ballard Designs collection.
“This is who I am. I’m always proud of where I came from.”
For more than a decade, Faces of the Valley has put a spotlight on local professionals in our area. These talented individuals and their teams are standouts in their respective fields who go above and beyond for their clients and the communities they serve.
Read on and get to know them better.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARCO CALDERON
THE FACE OF
Both a Farm and a Distillery
Chad Butters, Founder & CEO | Eight Oaks Farm Distillery
Celebrating its 10 th anniversary in 2026, Eight Oaks Farm Distillery operates on the belief that spirits are just the starting point for building a better community.
Both a farm and distillery located in New Tripoli, Eight Oaks grows what they and other spirits enthusiasts drink, including craft, award-winning whiskeys and assorted other spirits from regeneratively farmed rye, barley, wheat, non-GMO corn and apples. Especially popular is the Pennsylvania Rye Whiskey and Applejack. A visit to Eight Oaks Farm Distillery offers a wide array of cocktails and beers, as well as food options to accompany them—from fresh-cut fries and a Bavarian pretzel to burgers made with local ingredients and banana pancakes.
More than farmers and distillers, the team at Eight Oaks Farm Distillery is made up of members of the local community they love. They are dedicated to operating a sustained cycle that begins and ends with purpose. That’s the Eight Oaks way.
THE FACE OF Fitness
Tom Fenstermacher, Founder & Owner | Steel Fitness Premier
Founded by Lehigh Valley native Tom Fenstermacher, Steel Fitness, with two local facilities, a robust community of members and a dedicated staff, aims to offer more than a national brand ever could.
Fenstermacher got started in 1995 as an entrepreneur by opening a mobile personal training business, growing it into a number of managed fitness centers in the Philadelphia suburbs. In 2006, he returned to the Lehigh Valley, opening Steel Fitness Riverport in Bethlehem, and then Steel Fitness Premier in Allentown in 2012.
He says, “I wanted to take my business back home. These are my roots. My grandfather worked at Bethlehem Steel. The brand Steel Fitness was born to pay homage to the place that was a backbone of the American progress fueled by the hard-working folks of the Lehigh Valley. This is my version of the American Dream.”
Over the years, the locations have grown in their size and service offerings. Steel Fitness is the largest club in the area, encompassing 55,000 square feet and enrolling 4,000 members. More than 100 classes are available each week. Members also enjoy a robust fitness center, three heated pools, aqua classes, a steam room and sauna, personal training, swim lessons, childcare and more. At the Riverport location, 30 classes a week feature everything from bootcamp to aerial yoga and an outdoor fitness yard.
Asserts Fenstermacher, “I want our members to feel like they are part of a one-of-akind experience. The feeling of belonging and community helps them reach their goals.”
250 Cetronia Rd. Suite 100, Allentown | 610.973.1500 | steelfitnesspremier.com
THE FACE OF
Pediatric Specialties
Lehigh Valley Reilly Children’s Hospital – Pediatric Specialties
Lehigh Valley Reilly Children’s Hospital, part of Jefferson Health, offers the region’s most comprehensive network of pediatric specialties in the region, giving families greater access to expert, compassionate, child-focused care close to home.
Every pediatric specialist undergoes extensive additional training and certification, allowing them to diagnose and treat complex conditions with precision. From routine concerns to highly specialized care, the Children’s Hospital’s multidisciplinary teams collaborate to create individualized treatment plans that support each child’s health and well-being.
The Children’s Hospital’s offerings span a broad spectrum of medical needs from treating a variety of neurological conditions to providing in-depth cognitive and behavioral evaluations, from managing growth, puberty and metabolic disorders to diagnosing and treating congenital and acquired heart
Standing, left to right: Mary Fragassi, CRNP; Kristin Torres, CRNP; Sujna Gohil, PA; BreeAnn Jensen, CRNA; Mekka Garcia, MD; Stacey Beckford, MD; Kailin Rumfield, CRNP; Resmy Palliyil Gopi, MD; Roy Rajan, MD; Laurissa Kashmer, MD; Kristen Prendergast, MD; Wendy Kowalski, MD; Noreen Petrash, DO; Abbey Bechtel, PA; Liborio LaRussa, MD; Lauren Pepi, DO; Scott Wheatley, MD; Carolyn Boscia, MD; Daniel Malleske, MD; Michele Clement, MD; Maria Aramburu de la Guardia, MD; Amy Dunn, DO
conditions. For children facing cancer, the oncology and radiation oncology programs deliver leading-edge therapies paired with comprehensive family support.
Additional specialties—including pediatric surgery, ENT, gastroenterology, pulmonology, orthopedics, anesthesia, urology, plastics, infectious diseases, emergency medicine, hematology, adolescent medicine and sleep medicine—ensure that children receive seamless, coordinated care at every stage. The Children’s Hospital also offers a 24/7 pediatric emergency department, a pediatric intensive care unit staffed by in-house critical care physicians at all hours, and a Level IV neonatal intensive care unit with neonatologists on site continuously, providing the region’s highest level of intensive care for premature and sick newborns.
Backed by exceptional expertise and a deep commitment to family-centered care, Lehigh Valley Reilly Children’s Hospital is a place where children receive world-class treatment—and families find comfort, confidence and hope.
Reproductive Medicine Associates (RMA) Lehigh Valley
For those struggling with fertility issues, having a caring and kind team of reproductive specialists in their corner is non-negotiable. Luckily for Lehigh Valley residents, Reproductive Medicine Associates (RMA) Lehigh Valley is nearby in Allentown.
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.
A deep interest in the sciences and a passion for helping individuals and families began Dr. NdeyeAicha Gueye’s journey into the medical field. At RMA Lehigh Valley, she leads an expert team that includes board-certified Woman’s Health Nurse Practitioner Brittany Seal.
Testimonials from RMA Lehigh Valley patients reinforce that the team is doing things right. “The overwhelming feedback is about how caring and compassionate we are,” they share. “Patients leave here with hope, knowing they are not alone in their journey. They know we are here cheering them on!”
What keeps the team motivated in what can sometimes be a challenging and emotional environment? They resoundingly agree that it’s seeing the joy on the faces of hopeful parents when they learn they are pregnant. Oh, and receiving those adorable baby pictures!
RMA embraces its diverse patient population and believes everyone deserves to have a family.
Interested in discussing options? Reach out to set up a meeting with the team.
1401 N. Cedar Crest Blvd. Suite 200, Allentown 866.762.3140 rmanetwork.com
#1 Quality Health Care
St. Luke’s University Health Network
St. Luke’s delivers nationally recognized excellence in every area of care, helping patients and families feel confident and supported. The US Department of Health and Human Services ranked St. Luke’s as the nation’s #1 health system for quality, safety and patient experience—surpassing Houston Methodist and Mayo Clinic. This objective recognition, based on data reported to the government, reflects St. Luke’s unwavering commitment to the highest standards of care. Patients across the region benefit from St. Luke’s exceptional outcomes, whether they require primary, specialty, surgical or inpatient services. St. Luke’s clinicians provide personalized attention, evidence-based treatments and compassionate support at the network’s nationally recognized hospitals, advanced specialty centers, outpatient facilities and innovative support services.
St. Luke’s continues to invest in expanding services, enhancing programs and recruiting skilled, compassionate providers. This dedication to excellence ensures that every patient receives the safest, highest-quality care.
Standing, left to right: Joel Fagerstrom – Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer; Dennis McGorry, MD – Chairman of Family Medicine; Douglas W. Lundy, MD, MBA, FAOA, FACS - Senior Vice President of Medical Services, Chair, Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Orthopedic Trauma Surgeon; Donna M. Sabol, MSN, RN, CPHQ – Senior Vice President and Chief Quality Officer
Sitting, left to right: Jeffrey A. Jahre, MD – Senior Vice President of Medical & Academic Affairs; Ashley Swope, MSN, RN – Chief Nursing Officer
THE FACE
OF Flowers, Plants and Gifts
Monica Yurconic-Groff
Ross Plants + Flowers + Gifts
For Monica Yurconic-Groff, owner of Ross Plants, Flowers & Gifts, flowers and plants have become both a passion and a purpose. Twenty years ago, Monica took a leap of faith when her husband brought her into the business. A former school teacher with a lifelong love of plants and flowers, she embraced the change—and quickly discovered she had found her true home.
Today, Ross offers two distinct experiences. The Orefield location features a full greenhouse bursting with houseplants, annuals, vegetable plants, herbs, hanging baskets, trees, shrubs and unique garden decor. In Allentown, customers enjoy a thoughtfully curated boutique gift shop where every item is hand-selected to calm the mind and body.
Ross is known for top-quality flowers arriving fresh daily from around the world, talented floral designers and a passionate team. Monica believes the secret to their success is simple: when people walk through the doors, they may arrive as customers, but they leave as friends.
Tired of hard water issues, buying bottled water or feeling hesitant to use tap water? Look no further than Long’s EcoWater Systems, the Lehigh Valley’s one-stop shop for residential and commercial water needs and the area’s only authorized EcoWater dealer. Long’s has earned national recognition as a Premier EcoWater Dealer for nine consecutive years—reflecting proven expertise, certified solutions and long-standing customer trust, backed by over 1,600 five-star reviews. Long’s proudly offers the EcoWater product line, known for industry-leading technology, long-lasting quality, third-party certifications and bonded lifetime warranties—trusted by generations of locals. With over 100 years of innovation and American-made craftsmanship, EcoWater softeners are the most efficient
in the world, ideal for the Lehigh Valley’s hard water. EcoWater’s full range of advanced filtration solutions is tailored to address virtually any water concern and deliver the absolute best water possible—including best-in-class drinking water systems for clean, healthy water right from the tap.
Just as important as the products is the team behind them. Owners Scott Warrick and Jim Carroll, along with their experienced team, provide dependable service backed by decades of expertise. Customers appreciate the time they take to properly diagnose water issues and recommend the right solutions. They also love the results: soft, clean water for healthier skin and hair, no scale buildup and safe, great-tasting drinking water—all with industry-best efficiencies. Beyond water treatment, Long’s EcoWater also provides well and water heater services, making them a true one-stop shop for better water. Call, email or stop by their showroom for a free water test and consultation!
Those looking for a financial institution where they feel genuinely cared for and where they’re treated as an individual rather than an account number should look no further than United Federal Credit Union. Founded in 1949 as a not-for-profit member-owned cooperative focused on helping people build better financial lives while strengthening the communities it calls home, United makes good on that promise to this day. With a full range of personal and business financial services including checking and savings accounts, auto and home loans, credit cards, digital banking tools and business banking solutions, the team at United prides itself on helping members to make confident, informed decisions through personalized guidance and financial literacy initiatives. Furthermore, United is guided by its “people helping people” philosophy, letting it lead how the credit union serves, listens and invests back into community organizations, schools, nonprofits and financial education efforts.
4703 Hamilton Blvd., Allentown | 484.429.9913 | unitedfcu.com/Pennsylvania-offers
Left to right: Savannah Delgado, Jessica Rodriguez, Nina Martinez, Corally Richardson, Emily Bachman, Lydia Negron
THE FACE OF
Ageless Beauty
Tricia Vermilya Aesthetics
Those aiming to look and feel their best want to partner with someone who is passionate about providing precision care and individualized treatment to their clients. Here in the Valley, Tricia Vermilya Aesthetics is a trusted provider of filler and Botox services, RF and traditional microneedling, sexual wellness services and bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT), as well as facials, hydra facials and more.
Says Vermilya, “I have trained with a wide array of very skilled providers. I always have a schedule of trainings, including with someone who is a leader in my field at least once a year.” With 15 years in the injectables field, clients assert she has an elephant-like memory.
“I normally have their doses memorized and I am familiar with them and their history. I take their concerns seriously and take every necessary step to ensure they are happy with their services,” she says. “I love making people feel good in their skin!”
4331 Easton Ave., Bethlehem
484.788.3491
triciavaesthetics.com
THE FACE OF
Functional Fitness
Orangetheory ® Fitness
For those looking for more than a fitness studio, Orangetheory is the perfect fit. Say franchise owners of the Easton and Allentown locations, “Our goal is to be a long-term partner in health and longevity, supporting our members in living healthier, more vibrant lives.”
At Orangetheory, members support and encourage one another, creating connections that go far beyond the workout. Attendees and staff acknowledge the important of celebrating both fitness and non-scale journeys. “Recognizing those wins is an important part of what we do,” they assert. “We love seeing
members achieve things they once thought were impossible, whether it’s running their first mile without stopping, lifting heavier weights, improving key health markers or gaining confidence, those are the moments that drive us.”
Orangetheory offers a science-backed and coach-led full-body group workout program that blends strength training, cardio and expert coaching to help members burn fat and build muscle efficiently. There are a variety of class formats designed to support different goals, including Orange 60, Tread 50 and Strength 50, with options focused on upper body, lower body and total body training. A key part of the experience is the OTbeat performance tracking system, which allows members to monitor their heart rate in real time. The data helps coaches provide personalized guidance throughout the workout, creating a customized and effective experience.
Regardless of the starting point, a person’s age or their fitness goal, Orangetheory coaches meet people where they are and celebrate them achieving milestones they once thought were impossible.
Left to right:
Coach Jess Harper (Easton)
Coach Liz Bowers (Allentown)
Coach Elek Ferency (Easton)
Head Coach Elizabeth Rakos (Easton)
Coach & Studio Manager Tricia Schulberger (Easton)
Head Coach Jerri Brown (Allentown)
Family Wealth Managers
Magellan Financial, Inc.
“Your story and your future are at the heart of our business.”
Magellan Financial aims to deliver the home office caliber planning typically reserved for ultra affluent families to financially established households in the Lehigh Valley. They provide a boutique, multi family office experience—coordinated, intentional and multigenerational—for families who want clarity, confidence and a lasting legacy.
The team believes true wealth extends far beyond financial security—it is the ability to live fully, steward wisely and prepare the next generation to thrive.
Magellan delivers the depth of a large institution with the discretion and personalization of a private office. As trusted advisors, the team integrates advanced planning techniques across legal, insurance, investment, estate planning strategies, business and tax disciplines. Their coordinated approach aims to ensure that every decision supports clients through life’s transitions with clarity and confidence.
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.
What truly distinguishes Magellan is their philosophy: wealth is most powerful when it is understood. The team is dedicated to elevating financial literacy among clients and within the broader community through curated educational programs, outreach initiatives and trusted relationships. When individuals understand money, communities become stronger, healthier and more resilient.
Magellan Financial remains committed to its mission— to be the essential advisors families rely on for life’s most important decisions, helping them define wealth on their own terms with purpose, clarity and heart.
1605 N. Cedar Crest Blvd. Suite 111, Allentown 610.437.5650 | magellanlv.com
Left to right: Kaycee Cordon, Senior Administrative Manager; Cristy Church, Operations Manager; Cassandra Queen, Senior Wealth Planner; Rob Cahill, Partner; Susan Schupp, Senior Wealth Planner; JaLeesa Wheeler, Office Assistant/Receptionist; Jon Soden, Managing Partner
THE FACE OF
Seeing Eye 2 Eye @ 2020
Dr. John P. Boscia, Optometrist
“We Listen… You’ll See!” These are the guiding words at the office of Dr. John P. Boscia. Located at 2020 Sullivan Trail in Forks Township, the practice has been the “perfect location” for Dr. Boscia and his friendly staff to deliver professional, state-of-the-art eye care to the community for nearly 39 years. “Treat patients as you would like to be treated” has been Dr. Boscia’s mantra since 1987.
Dr. Boscia, joined by Dr. Lori Bartholomew, Dr. Patrick Corpora, Dr. Jonah Casella and Dr. Linda Dabboura, provides comprehensive eye examinations in a technologically advanced optometric setting. The progressive, medically modeled practice evaluates and treats a wide range of ocular conditions, including dry eye, glaucoma, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy and macular degeneration.
As a designated Dry Eye Center, the practice offers extensive treatment for dry eye disease, implementing the latest available technologies. Specialty contact lens fittings—including scleral and multifocal lenses—help patients achieve improved comfort and quality of life.
Certified Para-Optometric Assistant Kirsten Pope assists the doctors with advanced ocular photography and administers specialized diagnostic testing. Forks Optical, the practice’s on-site optical boutique, is known for its personalized service. For 38 years, optician Robin Reese has helped clients discover their “wow factor.” Alongside fellow opticians Matt Bronico and Chad Weierbach, patients are professionally assisted in finding the perfect eyewear. The welltrained staff is consistently recognized for its expertise in progressive addition lens fittings.
Rounding out the team are special projects coordinator Shelly Bobyak, billing specialist Austin Peters, and reception staff members Tracy Ruth, Valerie Angst and Joshua Pope, who ensure every patient receives a warm welcome.
Left to right: Valerie Angst, Matthew Bronico, Dr. Patrick J. Corpora, Austin Peters, Dr. Linda Dabboura, Chad Weierbach, Dr. John P. Boscia, Dr. Lori A. Bartholomew, Robin Reese, Dr. Jonah G. Casella, Joshua Pope, Michelle Bobyak, Tracy Ruth, Kirsten Pope
THE FACE OF
European Automotive Service
Schearer’s Sales & Service, Inc.
For owners of European automobiles looking for reliable service, head to Schearer’s Sales & Service in Allentown. Owned by Tom and Christy Schearer since 1995, the family-run business saw daughter Samantha join the ranks in 2017 during a time of growth. That success isn’t surprising. Schearer’s takes pride in performing expert service and repair for European vehicles using the same factory equipment and tools dealerships work with to keep clients’ vehicles safe, reliable and running efficiently. Ask one of their many long-term clients about their experience and they’ll likely mention Schearer’s transparency, high standards and genuine care. In a customer survey, three sentiments came up time and time again: trust, quality and personal touch. Schearer’s took that to heart and, today, holds them at the center of their core values. At Schearer’s they enjoy customers coming in to pick up their vehicles with smiling faces, and providing a comfortable, low-pressure experience.
Left to right: Christy Schearer, Lilian Higdon, Tom Schearer, Samantha Higdon, Priscilla Paulus, Ross Meitzler, Mike Austin
THE FACE OF
Custom Closets & Storage Solutions
Closet Factory Allentown
Closet Factory Allentown has been a family-owned and -operated company since 1999. The Focht family brought Closet Factory to the Lehigh Valley to create perfectly designed solutions for their clients’ cabinetry needs by combining a completely custom organizational solution with innovative design style. Committed to creating opportunities for all within the organization, the family prides itself on providing the Lehigh Valley with a national brand at a familyowned and -operated level. Bob Focht started the Closet Factory with his engineering background from Lehigh University, along with Joan Focht, his wife of over 50 years. Bob and Joan oversee the daily operations, with daughters Melissa and Mandi Focht being involved in the day-to-day tasks as Operations Manager and Sales Manager, respectively.
Along with the immediate family, the family of employees stretches from the office staff to factory employees, installers and designers. Every step of the company’s process is touched by one of these amazing individuals and truly makes the experience with Closet Factory one to remember.
Left to right: Bob and Joan Focht with daughters Mandi and Melissa
Personalized Physician-Led Weight Loss and Body Contouring
Physicians Weight Control
It’s easy to become overwhelmed by treatment provider options when it comes to GLP-1 medications and other weight loss services.
Here in the Valley, Physicians Weight Control (PWC) patients flourish. They join a practice that thrives on teamwork and expertise. For 38 years, PWC has built a trusted reputation, with employees who stay motivated to help their patients focus and keep their inch and weight loss goals by working for a familyowned business that truly treats them like family.
Strawberry Laser Lipo, with over a decade of proven success, is state-of-the-art technology backed by strong FDA approval ensuring precise and visible inch-loss results. It’s non-invasive by nature, equaling zero downtime, pain or the need for surgery.
What sets PWC apart? The practice’s novel approach incorporates multiple weight loss strategies with GLP-1 medications and tried-and-true methods to do more than lose weight and inches; they thoroughly guide patients so they leave exponentially healthier than they would by employing just one strategy alone. They’re experts in their field, allowing patients to minimize side effects, maximize weight loss and help patients make lasting changes to stay healthy and confident!
Left to right: Morgan Wolff, Kristen Wolfer, William J. Strowhouer III, Maggie Corl Strowhouer, Naz Ashraphijuo
THE FACE OF Fertility
Shady Grove Fertility
Grounded in clinical experience and compassionate care, Shady Grove Fertility is proud to bring advanced fertility services closer to home with its Bethlehem location, making it easier for individuals and couples across the Lehigh Valley to access expert support and treatment. Conveniently located near St. Luke’s Anderson Campus and just off Routes 22 and 33, the Bethlehem office offers a welcoming, patient-centered experience, where individuals are supported by expert physicians. Caleb Kallen, MD, PhD, Tara Budinetz, DO, and Molly Prince, MSPAS, PA-C, work closely with the Bethlehem care team to provide thoughtful, personalized treatment. From initial fertility evaluations to advanced family-building options, the team is committed to helping patients move forward with clarity and confidence. With a warm, collaborative approach and the backing of one of the nation’s leading fertility centers, Shady Grove Fertility in Bethlehem offers trusted care designed around each patient’s unique path to parenthood.
Left to right: Molly Prince, MSPAS, PA-C; Caleb Kallen, M.D., Ph.D.; Tara Budinetz, D.O.
THE FACE OF Technology Solutions for Business AmericaVen, LLC
Victor Salicetti, founder and CEO of AmericaVen, leads a technology company focused on helping small- to mid-sized businesses gain a competitive advantage through secure, reliable technology.
AmericaVen specializes in managed IT services, cybersecurity and the implementation of AI solutions that improve productivity while protecting business data. As AI adoption accelerates, the company helps organizations utilize these tools in a practical and secure manner.
The business operates in two divisions. The fastest-growing is IT and cybersecurity, where companies rely on AmericaVen for ongoing support and protection. The second is AV event production, where the team brings the same spirit of technological innovation to live events, enhancing how organizations communicate and engage with their audiences.
Salicetti is also actively involved in the community, serving on boards including the Red Cross, Valley Youth House and Good Shepherd Rehabilitation Network.
964 Marcon Blvd. Suite 100, Allentown 610.849.0474 americaven.com
Advanced Vein Care
Precision Vein Care
Varicose veins affect more than 20 million people in the United States alone. Precision Vein Care is the Lehigh Valley’s only practice offering office-based cosmetic and surgical vein care staffed by a board-certified vascular surgeon. Born and raised in Bethlehem, James L. Guzzo, MD, FACS, formerly chief of vascular surgery at Lehigh Valley Health Network, is passionate about clinical excellence and outstanding patient satisfaction. Offering services including cosmetic and medical vein care, wound care and facial aesthetics utilizing state-of-the-art diagnostic technology, clients feel at ease, knowing they’re in good hands with Dr. Guzzo and his caring staff. The Precision Vein Care team is committed to high quality, patient-focused care for those looking for relief from varicose veins, spider veins, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), venous ulceration and more. Additional aesthetic services will be added to the practice’s service menu in the near future. Call to schedule a vein screening today.
Family Business Consulting
Compass Point Consulting
There are consultants. There are coaches. And then there’s Compass Point— a team of ten family business experts who bring sharp business insight, emotional intelligence and masterful facilitation to the table. They don’t just advise; they guide families through the unique challenges of running and passing on a family business.
Their mantra is simple: Successful Businesses. Aligned Ownership. Stronger Families. But the real magic? Preparing the next generation to lead with confidence, clarity and purpose.
Compass Point partners with owners to secure success today while building the foundation for tomorrow. They align ownership, strengthen family understanding of business essentials and coach Next Gen leaders to step into their roles fully prepared. Using their Six Pillars of Family Business Framework— Strategy, Leadership, Transition, Family Dynamics and Governance, Financial Gap and Next Chapter—they provide a structured, holistic approach that balances growth, leadership readiness and family harmony.
Clients often say it best: “We could not have scaled the business, aligned the team, created a succession plan or built a board without Compass Point.”
Founder Tom Garrity adds, “We grow business value while strengthening family relationships—something other systems often ignore. Creating harmony at both the conference table and the dinner table? That’s priceless.”
For family business owners, Compass Point is more than guidance. It’s a trusted partner, ensuring the business, the owners and the next generation are ready for a seamless, successful transition— today and for generations to come.
306 S. New St. Suite 110, Bethlehem 610.336.0514
compasspt.com
Left to right:
Lizette Dubacher, MBA
John Bailie, PhD
Catherine Garrity-Frans
Susan Bromm, MBA
Angela Malpedo
Tom Garrity
Matthew Baran
Kaitlin Wolfert, PhD
Cheryl Doll, EdD, CFBA
Daniel Seijas (not shown)
PAN-SEARED SNAPPER WITH Chef Janaja D. Harris
TEXT & PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALISON CONKLIN
Growing up, Janaja D. Harris was glued to The Food Network, mesmerized by the joy and rhythm of the kitchen.
At 14, she started working at Dorney Park, dropping chicken fingers into hot oil and discovering she loved the energy, the speed and the pressure. Later at Wawa, she flew down the hoagie line with precision and confidence. Food wasn’t just a job. It was how she survived. How she moved forward. How she imagined something bigger.
When COVID-19 shuttered the restaurant where she worked, Harris had to pivot fast. Living on her own, she began “selling plates”—fried chicken, baked mac and cheese, collard greens, cornbread—recipes rooted in her grandmother’s kitchen. She sold out every weekend. The community showed up. And she realized food wasn’t just her hustle. It was her calling.
That realization led her to culinary school at Northampton Community College. The path wasn’t straight. There were setbacks, and she had to fight her way back. But the experience transformed her. “Culinary school made me grow,” she says. “You have to go after the life that you want.”
One steady presence along the way was her mentor, Chef Domenico Lombardo—“my chef dad,” she calls him—who helped ground her during difficult moments and pushed her toward bigger opportunities, including internships with Disney.
But perhaps the most powerful chapter of Harris’s story isn’t written in a professional kitchen. For more than two years, using her own money, she has cooked and given away meals in her community. She buys the ingredients, cooks with intention, sets up tables outside her grandmother’s home and calls down the street, “Come get a plate.”
As she describes urging neighbors to accept food even when pride told them not to, tears roll down her face. “It felt good,” she says quietly. “To give somebody a plate that needed it.”
The recipe she is sharing with us is personal to her. “It’s the sweet and spice of me,” Harris says of the seared red snapper laid over Southern-style corn puree and a crispy grit cake, topped with blistered tomatoes and finished with a honey vinaigrette.
Her dream? A soul food restaurant on Hamilton Street in Center City Allentown—elevated, rooted and built for the community that built her. When those doors open, it won’t just be a restaurant. It will be proof of everything she fought and worked for.
xFiresKitchenx
PAN-SEARED SNAPPER
INGREDIENTS
3 c. water or chicken broth
1 c. quick grits
½ c. shredded cheddar cheese
2 tbsp. butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Neutral oil for frying
3 c. corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
½ c. heavy cream
2 tbsp. butter
1 clove garlic
5 tbsp. olive oil, divided
1 c. cherry tomatoes
1 tbsp. honey
1 tbsp. fresh lemon juice
1 tsp. Dijon mustard
1 tbsp. chopped parsley
1 tbsp. chopped chives
Pinch red pepper flakes
2 skin-on snapper fillets
(6–8 oz. each)
1 tsp. paprika
1 tbsp. butter
INSTRUCTIONS
Bring water or broth to a boil in a saucepan. Slowly whisk in the grits and reduce heat to low. Cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring frequently, until thick. Stir in cheddar cheese, butter, salt and pepper.
Spread the cooked grits into a parchment-lined dish about 1 inch thick. Refrigerate until firm, about 45 minutes. Once chilled, cut into squares and pan-fry in a lightly oiled skillet until golden and crisp on both sides.
Combine corn, cream, butter and garlic in a saucepan. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until the corn is tender.
Transfer to a blender and puree until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
Heat 1 tbsp. olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 3–4 minutes until lightly blistered. Season with a pinch of salt.
Whisk together 3 tbsp. olive oil, honey, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, parsley, chives, red pepper flakes and salt until combined.
Pat the snapper fillets dry with paper towels and season with salt, pepper and paprika.
Heat 1 tbsp. olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Place the fish skin-side down and cook for 4–5 minutes until the
skin becomes crisp. Flip the fish, add butter and cook for another 1–2 minutes while basting.
Spoon sweet corn puree onto the plate and spread slightly. Place a crispy grit cake on top of the puree and lean the snapper fillet against it. Arrange blistered tomatoes around the fish and drizzle lightly with the hot honey herb vinaigrette. Tag @lvstylemag when you make it at home!
1812 Piano Lounge
A COMBUSTIBLE COMBINATION OF SOUND AND TASTE
BY
There’s something about music and food—each a feast of its own, one of sound, the other of flavor. Put them together, though, and the sum turns out exponentially greater than the parts.
Allentown’s 1812 Piano Lounge easily serves as a case in point When I visited, a vocalist crooning Frank Sinatra standards kept the energy level at this West End establishment at fever pitch. Even though space for dancing is spare, patrons eked out enough to execute some two-steps; a few dancers found room enough to spin partners across the floor. Others moved to the groove in their seats, while nursing a cocktail or crunching thin, crispy housemade potato chips. It was 5 p.m. on a Thursday; the place was practically packed, and the one-word modus operandi was—fun.
Owner Jill Schaefer opened 1812 Piano Lounge in June 2025 because she’s enjoyed visiting these venues in other places: “You can never have a bad time at a piano bar,” she says. She’d dreamed of opening one in the Lehigh Valley for years. The time finally felt right last year, so the Allentown Appliance owner gutted the store’s warehouse and transformed her dream into reality.
Now it’s hard to imagine the classy, sophisticated space crowded with tightly stacked appliances instead of people. Black walls and the blackand-bronze ceiling create a dramatic backdrop for a stunning white baby grand piano. Marble-topped tables, blue-and-gold velvet chairs and red velvet banquettes along one wall punctuate the room with rich color. Not surprisingly, the interior was designed with acoustics in mind. No doubt that’s why it feels like you’re inside a
SUSAN GOTTSHALL PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALISON CONKLIN
Sonos speaker here, wrapped in music, feeling the sound as well as hearing it.
General manager Cindy Billera says when the lounge first opened, patrons told her they thought they were coming for the music, but discovered, “‘Wow, you have food, too, and it’s good.’”
That good food would be thanks to executive chef Brad Shive. A graduate of the Culinary Arts Program at Northampton Community College, the Lehigh Valley native joined the Piano Lounge team when it opened, coming from Thyme Rooftop Grille in Easton where he helmed the kitchen at its opening. He’s also worked in the kitchens of Allentown’s Grille 3501 and Bethlehem’s ZEST bar + grille. His first job at age 15 was washing dishes at Mueller's General Store and Kitchen; he accepted an opportunity to try cooking, and he’s been behind a stove ever since.
Shive describes the cuisine at the Piano Lounge as upscale, yet approachable. The seasonal menu—which features about a dozen main plates and a handful of snack selections— focuses on utilizing topquality ingredients; all of the fare, except bread, is freshly made on site. Along with French- and Asian-inspired selections such as escargot and steamed edamame dumplings, there’s more traditional American-influenced fare; consider, for example, beef sliders and potato wedges with a trio of sauces.
One of the menu’s most popular dishes, Japanese Fried Chicken, might call up images of a Southern favorite, but Shive ups the ante of this dish by coating chicken thighs in potato starch, rather than flour or bread crumbs, because the starch coating stays crisped longer, he says. This crispy,
crispy fowl is served with spicy mayo—Kewpie Japanesestyle mayonnaise mixed with sambal (fiery Southeast Asian chili paste), house-made togarashi (Japanese sevenspice blend) and lime juice. Slivers of scallion add flavor and finish to the plate. The result is pleasantly warm, but not searing spicy hot. I would return anytime for this chicken.
Is it braising that makes the Piano Lounge’s octopus exceptionally tender?
Mouthwateringly charred by pan-searing after the braising, this seafood’s smoky notes pair well with the plate’s foundation of pea puree, along with shaved fennel, micro herbs and crispy, colorful watermelon radish. Pickled onion and chili oil heighten the flavor with piquant notes.
Tuna Tartare allows the mild, mineral taste of this raw saltwater fish to shine. Diced and served atop crispy rice and buttery avocado, the combination comes together with sambal vinaigrette. The resulting flavor profile is edgy, but not spicy as might be expected. Savory, scrumptious house-made potato chips—micro-thin and macro-tasty with a touch of spice—complete the plate. If ever there were potato chips you couldn’t eat just one of, it would be these.
A festival of freshness, Fennel Salad delivers delightful flavor and textural contrast. Citrusy notes of orange supremes balance the shaved fennel’s mild anise profile, while crisp greens play foil to the crunch of pistachio and tenderness of grapes with deepened sweetness, thanks to roasting. A light vinaigrette with orange juice and fennel fronds keeps the focus on the salad’s ingredients rather than a heavy dressing.
A take on avocado toast is the Piano Lounge’s Pea Toast. Pea puree, as vibrantly green as spring, tops ciabatta, bringing clean veggie notes to the chewy bread. Dollops of whipped ricotta, white as snow, top the puree with creamy richness, and pea tendrils complete this Kodak foodie moment that might just qualify as a garden on a plate.
The toast’s chili crisp garnish showcases the chef’s skill. Shive fries thinly sliced garlic and shallots in oil, then strains the hot oil over chili flakes, sugar, ginger and sesame seed. After the oil cools, the garlic and shallot are added back to the mixture, which, in turn, punches up the umami of this dish. “It’s all about building flavor,” says Shive. And that flavor adds an abundance of color and taste to the toast.
Along with offering good music and good food, 1812 Piano Lounge “is a cocktail bar, for sure,” says Billera. The bar features craft cocktails as well as curated wine and beer selections. Ramble On showcases bar manager Darius Feit’s creativity: mixed with bourbon, blackberry simple syrup, lemon and mint, the drink’s sweet, fruity essence plays well with its super smooth, complex character. Dehydrated blackberry garnish on the rim of the glass contributes deepened color and concentrated berry notes to this cocktail; I could drink a lot of these.
Additional craft cocktail offerings: That’s Life combines a choice of vodka or gin with house-made pickle juice; Tea for One mixes gin, housebrewed hibiscus tea, lemon and prosecco; and Susie Q combines bourbon and amaretto with cranberry and muddled Amarena cherries. Blackberry, lemon, mint and
ginger beer feature in the Rocketman mocktail.
The character of the Piano Lounge changes each night, depending on the entertainment, says Billera: “Music sets the tone here, but what is consistent is the food and drink.”
Eighty percent of the entertainment is based on piano performance, but there are vocalists, like the Sinatra crooner I witnessed, as well as duos and jazz trios. On Monday nights, patrons are invited to bring their own vinyl recordings, and singalongs often ensue, ones that include the lounge’s singing bartender, Shannon Cornish. Billera recommends looking at the Piano Lounge calendar in the “Upcoming Events” tab on its website to choose a night to visit based on personal music preferences.
Schaefer points out that, as part of Allentown’s West End, “We want to be part of the neighborhood.” There’s no dress code; patrons come in shorts and T-shirts, but dressing up works, too. Just “be comfortable,” she says. With the variety here—styles of music and styles of food— there’s something for everyone, she promises, no matter how anyone dresses.
Billera and Schaefer agree that the most important thing to remember about the 1812 Piano Lounge—with its live music, good food and good drinks—is pretty simple: you just can’t have a bad time at a piano bar.
Did you visit 1812 Piano Lounge? Tag @lvstylemag and let us know how it was!
1812 Piano Lounge
1812 W. Allen St., Allentown 484.274.6208 | 1812pianolounge.com
HOURS
Mon.–Thurs.: 4–9 p.m.
Fri.–Sat.: 4–11 p.m.
One Sunday monthly: Check website for special events
Cost: Snacks, starters, mains: $5–$26
Parking: Lot adjacent to lounge, also on-street.
Reservations: Recommended on weekends.
WHAT TO ORDER
Don’t miss the Japanese Fried Chicken; it brings new meaning to crispy. Fennel Salad is a musthave for adding antioxidants to your day in a super tasty way. And, if you’ve never braved octopus, go ahead, accept the challenge. It’s so intelligently cooked here, you won’t be sorry.
DULCE Y PICANTE MARGARITA
BY ANGELA VENNEMANN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MATTHEW CANNON
READY TO TRY IT? Tag @lvstylemag when you do!
Margaritas and the month of May: name a better duo (we’ll wait). On Cinco de Mayo, it’s practically a requirement to enjoy some citrus and tequila. There are plenty of ways to combine the two, with some preferring a sweeter taste and others opting for a little spice. But ¿por qué no los dos? Torre gives you the Dulce y Picante.
Torre’s general manager, Alex Jimenez Jr., says this margarita brings flavors of “sweet and citrus to start, and then the heat comes in the back end to complement it and bring it all together.” It all starts with houseinfused tequila: in batches, Torre combines four gallons of tequila with a variety of sliced peppers—jalapeños, habaneros, chiles de árbol—and then lets them rest for anywhere from four to six hours, allowing the oils from the peppers to be expressed. The peppers and seeds are then strained from the tequila. The next step is creating what Jimenez calls “house juice… a blend of fresh lime juice, orange juice and agave that we make here at Torre.” Though the flavor it yields is complex, crafting the Dulce y Picante is simple: Infused tequila. House juice. Triple sec. Salt rim. Delicious.
Spicy margs have been growing in popularity over the years, and the Dulce y Picante certainly has its fair share of fans at Torre. “Since day one, this drink has been a big hit with our guests, and [it] has and will be a staple of our cocktail menu,” Jimenez says. “People enjoy it so much that throughout the years we’ve had requests to turn up the heat.” Though the level of spice has remained the same, Torre patrons can still try out different spins on this margarita, with variations occasionally popping up. “My favorite one that I’ve made throughout the years is a Dulce y Picante made with fresh guava and coconut puree,” Jimenez says. “The flavors all together take you right to Tulum.”
To really get the feeling that you’ve been suddenly transported to Mexico, try this drink with one of Torre’s menu items. “The carne asada, our USDA Prime skirt steak served with yuca fries, pairs perfectly with the Dulce y Picante,” Jimenez shares. “The richness from the meat complements the acidity and spice of the cocktail.” We’ll drink to that: ¡Arriba, abajo, al centro, y pa’ dentro!
torrerestaurant.com
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