Issuu

F E B R UA RY 2 02 1

Freedom of

MOV EMEN T is my

M I S S ION We’re one of America’s 100 Best Hospitals™ for both orthopedic surgery and joint replacement. Our patient satisfaction scores for orthopedics are consistently in the 90th percentile. But awards aren’t the mission— you are. So we offer appointments with specialists on the next business day, and less invasive treatments that get you moving faster than ever. At St. Mary, we also treat you with the most powerful medicine of all—simple human kindness.

10-15937

stmaryhealthcare.org/ortho 1-844-7-ST MARY

LIFESTYLE LETTER

FEBRUARY 2021 PUBLISHER

Dana Weissenberg | Dana.Weissenberg@lifestylepubs.com EDITOR

Find Your Creative Self

Stacy Graebner | stacy.graebner@lifestylepubs.com AD DESIGNER

Evan Deuvall

ART IS AN EXPRESSION OF CREATIVITY AND CAN BE EXPRESSED IN DIF-

L AYO UT DESIGNER

FERENT WAYS; SUCH AS, PAINTING, LITERATURE, MUSIC, PHOTOGRAPHY,

Jayme Emery

ARCHITECTURE, INTERIOR DESIGN, FILM AND COOKING. This month we celebrate art by highlighting a few local artisans. Jean Childs Buzgo, a Yardley resident, is a local painter who brings her imagination to life through oil paintings. She graciously agreed to paint the beautiful original piece titled "Newtown Snowfall" featured on the cover of this month's issue of our magazine! Julia Eisenberg, a recent

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Stacy Graebner, Christine Toy Dragoni, Donna Hoffman, Jamie Dinardi-Dill CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Peter Rymwid

college grad and PR professional, found her inner creative self during the pandemic through customized charcuterie boards and focaccia breads that are almost too pretty to eat. Donna Hoffman, a seasoned interior designer, utilizes her creative and refined skills to design homes. Jamie Dinardi-Dill, owner of Sweet Confetti dessert shop and former event planner, hones in on her craft through specialty desserts. In each case, they share their story and inspiration with Newtown Lifestyle. One might argue, surgery is an art! Take a few minutes to read our recent interview with orthopedic surgeon Dr. George Stollsteimer from St. Mary Medical Center, and learn how he uses precision and technique to mend those ligaments and bones to get us back in working order.

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

For me, I'll stick to the entry level DIY projects like the ones shared with you in this

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

issue by Audrey Kuether, a nationally renowned DIY'er.

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

We hope this issue inspires you to create something. Whether it's drawing, photography or baking a decadent chocolate cake for your loved one (wink-wink), give it

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

a whirl! Like Bob Ross said “We don’t make mistakes, just happy little accidents”. In honor of Valentine's Day, I'm signing off with love. Love,

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

Dana Weissenberg, Publisher

CityLifestyle.com/Newtown ON THE COVER “Newtown Snowfall”, 9x12 oil/board by artist Jean Childs Buzgo 4

Newtown Lifestyle | February 2021

Proverbs 3:5-6 Newtown Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Newtown areas’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Newtown Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

Timeless, Elegant and Comfortable Spaces / Full-Service Interior Design KARIN@KARINECKERSONINTERIORS.COM | WWW.KARINECKERSONINTERIORS.COM (609) 474-0069 | PENNINGTON , NEW JERSEY

INSIDE THE ISSUE FEBRUARY 2021

FEATURES 12 Artist’s Studio: Jean Childs Buzgo Local Impressionist Painter Blends Reality and Imagination

20 Design Trend Alert: Tile 2021 Bold, Stunning Options for Kitchens and Bathrooms

24 From Bored to Boards Julia Eisenberg Creates Decorative (and Delicious!) Focaccia

32 20

32 English Elegance Stately Manor in Solebury is an architectural gem

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

Around Town

Artist’s Palette

Healthy Lifestyle

20 Renovate & Refine 26 DIY 28 Culinary Creations 32 Open House

AROUND TOWN

BUCKS COUNTY CHAPTER OF "100+ WOMEN WHO CARE" DONATES $22,000! The non-profit, "100+ Women Who Care of Bucks County", donated $22,000 to Bucks For Kids (www.BucksForKids.org) at their last meeting of 2020. Bucks for Kids provides funding for scholarships, summer camp experiences, and other needs. Grant requests are submitted by social workers under the oversight of Bucks County Children and Youth Social Services Agency. For more informa-

Let us help you find your look for 2021!

tion related to joining 100+ Women Who Care, please visit http://www.100whcbucks.org/. The organization meets 4 times per year for 1 hour, and contributes just under $100,000 to worthy local causes in Bucks County.

hair design face & body wellness lashes & waxing nails tanning bridal services (on & off site)

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Newtown Lifestyle | February 2021

BIKE WORKS OPENING IN NEWTOWN Bike Works is opening its second shop in Newtown. Brian Boger and Fran Taloricco, owners of Doylestown Bike Works, will open Newtown Bike Works in the Promenade at Sycamore

complex next to Bernie Robbins and Anthropologie. Bike Works is an employee-owned bicycle shop focused on sales, service, and community engagement. Their first location in Doylestown won the "Daily Intelligencer Best of Bucks" from 2012-2020 and was named one of America's Best Bicycle Shops by the National Bicycle Dealers Association in 2020. The owners are excited to partner with Giant Bicycles in this new venture and look forward to contributing to the active life of Newtown.

COZY OUTDOOR DINING OPTIONS AT RIVER HOUSE AT ODETTE'S River House at Odette’s has the cure for cabin fever with warm, hearty fare and heated outdoor seating. Its signature restaurant and bar, Odette’s,

features

sheltered

veranda seating directly connected to the main dining room bringing the comforts of indoors to alfresco dining – complete with picturesque riverfront vistas. Odette’s Overlook, an outdoor extension to the main dining venue, features covered outdoor seating with toasty overhead heaters and a masterfully crafted outdoor fireplace for a cozy dining atmosphere. Odette’s seasonal, locally inspired menus showcase a medley of warming dishes from delectable seafood to comforting flatbreads and hearty steaks - perfectly paired with signature whiskey cocktails to warm guests on chilly nights. CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Newtown

AROUND TOWN

COUNCIL ROCK HIGH SCHOOL NORTH WINS B101.1 CHRISTMAS CHOIR CONTEST Council

Rock

North's

Choir,

NorthVoice, celebrated a first place win in the B101.1 2020 Christmas Choir Competition on December 18th. The choir was one of three finalists competing for the title of Best Christmas Choir, under the direction of vocal music teacher Ryan Carlin. The team won the most votes for their amazing performance of "The First Noel". The grand prize of $5,000 will go towards the Council Rock High School North music program. Council Rock High School South came in second place with their performance of "Let it Snow", directed by Corey Axler. Congratulations to all of the incredibly talented students at both schools!

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us?

hear

from

you!

would Contact

love

CityLifestyle.com/Newtown using the Get In Touch link and let us know what you think. 10

Newtown Lifestyle | February 2021

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ARTIST’S PALETTE

Abundance (30x30 oil/gallery wrapped canvas)

Lavender Farm (16x20 oil/canvas)

Newtown Lifestyle | February 2021

A RT I S T ’ S S T U DIO : JEAN CHILDS BU Z G O

ARTICLE STACY GRAEBNER

Starry Night Over LaVille (18x24 oil/board)

Rain on Bridge Street (8x10 oil/canvas)

LIGHT STREAMS INTO JEAN CHILDS BUZGO’S ART

after meeting with the late Herman Silverman and now

STUDIO IN HER HOME IN YARDLEY. She is putting

gallery owner, Rhonda Garland. “Although I was new to

the finishing touches on her latest work “Abundance”, a

the scene,” she said, “they believed in me and my work.

gorgeous 30x30 oil painting inspired by a recent visit to

It was the boost and validation that I needed and a total

a local orchard. Though she is currently sharing her stu-

career changing moment. I knew I was finally on the

dio with her children who are attending school virtually,

right track.”

she still considers this space her refuge.

Jean’s artistic style oscillates between impressionist,

Jean’s artistic journey started in high school, when she

semi-expressionist, and semi-abstract impressionist.

began taking the train from her home in NJ to Philadelphia

While her work is based in reality, she captures and ren-

on weekends to attend workshops at Moore College of

ders her subjects in a stylized way to evoke an emotional

Art, an experience that sparked her dreams of becoming

connection to her subjects. She explains, “If I’m feeling

a professional artist. She recalls, “It was really exhilarat-

a strong emotion, whether it’s joy, or sorrow, or frustra-

ing to be commuting into the city as a young teenager.

tion, or enthusiasm, it’s important to me to channel that

I had my portfolio and toolbox of supplies in hand, and

emotion into a painting. I can’t just sit or stand at the

felt so independent. I was in my own transcendent world

easel without that impetus and force the work to come

when I created, so I knew I had found my purpose and

out, it has to be fueled by something. I’m grateful that

passion.” Her path to a career in fine art was sidetracked

I have these ever-changing emotions and that I have

during college, however, when she took a more practical

art as an outlet as a way of translating them.” While

route, studying graphic art and packaging design, even-

much of her work is considered impressionistic, as in

tually landing a career in the corporate world. It wasn’t

her painting “Rain on Bridge Street” and “Starry Night

until she moved to Bucks County in 1999 and started a

Over LaVille”, recently she has been experimenting with

family that she began to feel a gnawing desire to paint

loosening her brush stroke in a more expressionistic and

again. “It was like this tension was building in me and I

semi-abstract style (as in “Canal in Turquoise” and “Blue

needed to address it. It’s quite hard to explain. So I took

Monday”). She notes, “Lately I’ve been feeling the need

some workshops with local artists to rekindle some long

to do something different. I’ve been working more freely

neglected skills and I began painting full-time profes-

with my brush, expanding my color palette and painting

sionally in 2008.” With her talent unleashed, Jean quickly

larger canvases. I’ve been enjoying creating pieces that

built up a portfolio and a following. It wasn’t long before

allow viewers to interpret the scene on their own, rather

she was represented by the Silverman Gallery in 2014,

than directing what they see.” CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Newtown

ARTIST’S PALETTE (CONTINUED) Blue Monday (11x14 oil/canvas)

Water Lilies (30x30 oil/gallery wrapped canvas)

Canal in Turquoise (18x24 oil/linen)

Jean’s subjects are inspired by everyday moments that grab her attention,

memories I have of being there and I like to share those memo-

whether it be a trip to a city or town, a walk along the canal path, or a drive

ries.” Her serene impressionistic paintings of the bridges, rivers,

somewhere. “I basically get this 'ah-ha' moment, a sort of snapshot in my

and canals in the area convey the movement of the water and

head of what would be a potential painting, so I’ve always got a camera at

the reflections created, while her vibrant abstract paintings of

the ready for when that moment strikes.” Sometimes she chooses subjects

Manhattan and Philadelphia capture the energy of city life.

like florals as her muse to play with colors and shapes, or she paints a scene

Jean is represented by the Silverman Gallery in Buckingham,

from memory in a more abstract fashion, working purely from imagination.

PA year round, where she has solo exhibitions every 18 months,

One of her most interesting recent works is a 30x30 mixed media painting

with group shows in between.

called “Water Lilies” which she began painting after a visit to Longwood

In May 2021 she will have a solo exhibition featuring approxi-

Gardens. The underpainting began as an abstract acrylic painting, ren-

mately 35 new works, covering various subject material in varied

dered with drips and thick paint. She then created an overpainting in oil to

sizes with beautiful handmade frames by a local artisan.

create a stunning piece that blends reality and imagination. Not surprisingly, the beauty of our local area serves as a constant source

Follow Jean on social media for her latest work and up-to-date

of inspiration for Jean. “Bucks and Hunterdon County are very inspiring to

information on her shows:

me. The historic and quaint river towns are aesthetically pleasing and evoke

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JeanChildsBuzgoArtist/

such a peaceful, calming feeling of home. I’ve painted Phillips’ Mill quite

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeanchildsbuzgoartist/

often because it’s such an iconic, historical building and also, the twist in

Website: http://www.jeanchildsbuzgo.com

the road there is quite memorable. I’ve also created paintings of the Bucks

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/jeanchildsbuzgo/

County Playhouse, The Bucks County Theater, Lake Afton Church and local

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp--2Ra0sx-

restaurants and bars in Lambertville because of their beauty and the fond

q0SvlPCx1wdHQ?view_as=subscriber

Newtown Lifestyle | February 2021

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HEALTHY LIFESTYLE George Stollsteimer

ARTICLE STACY GRAEBNER

Innovations in Sports Medicine ORTHOPEDIC SURGEON GEORGE STOLLSTEIMER OF ST. MARY’S ORTHOPAEDICS

AS A SOCIETY, WE ARE MORE FITNESS CONSCIOUS THAN EVER, WHICH MEANS WE ARE MORE PRONE TO ATHLETIC INJURIES AS WELL. DR. GEORGE STOLLSTEIMER OF ST. MARY’S ORTHOPAEDICS SHARES SOME OF THE LATEST ADVANCES IN THE TREATMENT OF SPORTS AND EXERCISE RELATED INJURIES. ARE PARTICULAR TYPES OF INJURIES BECOMING MORE COMMON AMONG ADULTS AND TEENS? Yes, it does seem that injuries are becoming much more of a common finding with the lifestyles of today's patients. For adults, I believe that we are seeing more rotator cuff tears, as well as meniscal cartilage tears. In younger people, we are seeing more overuse injuries, such as shoulder or elbow injuries, to knee injuries including meniscus tears and ACL tears. As women have consistently increased their participation in high-level sporting activities, we are especially seeing increased numbers of ACL tears in female athletes. I believe we are living longer, and adults are trying to keep their physical activities at higher levels, this has much to do with some of the injuries we are seeing in our older population. For our younger athletes, much of this has to do not only with greater percentage of partic-

Dr. George Stollsteimer is a graduate of Temple Univer-

ipation among these young people, but also due to year-

sity School of Medicine, and completed his residency at

round participation, as opposed to seasonal participation,

Albert Einstein Medical Center in Philadelphia. He is for-

which we would see in the past.

tunate to have completed a fellowship in sports medicine and arthroscopy at the Mississippi Sports Medicine

HOW HAS SPORTS MEDICINE CHANGED OVER

and Orthopedic Clinic in Jackson, Mississippi where

THE PAST 10 YEARS?

he trained with some of the finest sports medicine sur-

I think one of the most significant changes that has developed over the last decade is sports medicine continues to be less invasive. We are able to do more 16

Newtown Lifestyle | February 2021

geons in the world. He is board certified in orthopedic surgery and sports medicine.

procedures through the arthroscope, limiting the sur-

exercise properly in preparation for what you are going

gical damage to tissue. In addition, every year it seems

to ask your body to do. For instance, if you are a mid-

that new tools and techniques are being developed

dle-aged man and you want to go out and play basketball

to tackle more difficult problems. I would say it Is a

on the weekends, you are "asking for trouble" if you have

very exciting time in sports medicine, as we have more

done nothing but sit at your desk all week and then try to

options to offer patients for treatments.

play five basketball games on a Saturday and act like you are Michael Jordan. This is a set-up for injury.

WHAT INNOVATIONS HAVE EMERGED RECENTLY IN TERMS OF TREATMENT?

For younger athletes, whether you are playing a high-level club sport or playing for your high school

There seem to be new innovations on almost a

team or just want to play a sport with your friends, it

year-by-year basis. New types of anchors have been

is important that you are exercising to keep your body

developed to repair rotator cuff tears in a less invasive

in condition so that it can do what you ask of it. Also,

fashion. Different types of screws have been devel-

for our younger athletes, as well as for their parents or

oped to more easily biologically incorporate tendon or

guardians, keep a very close eye on overuse. Baseball

ligament repairs. And very much so, we see ongoing

is a wonderful sport, but if you are playing 12 months

research into the development of "biologics," which

of the year and never giving your arm a rest, this can

are treatments such as platelet-rich plasma (or PRP),

lead down the pathway to elbow and shoulder inju-

stem cells, collagen patches, etc. This research is

ries. This also applies to other sports, such as soccer,

early and ongoing, however. We are "not quite there

where athletes are playing year-round and involved in

yet”. But this research is very exciting and I think that

multiple games on any particular weekend. This kind

in the years to come biologics will pave the way to a

of overuse can lead to fatigue or overuse injuries or

vast array of options for dealing with different types

catastrophic injury such as ACL tears.

of injuries, increasing healing rates of tendon repairs,

For some of our older athletes, I think it is also

possibly slowing progression of arthritic changes and

important to be realistic with your activity level. Make

other exciting possibilities.

sure that you are warming up and performing regular routine exercise. Listen to what your body is telling you

WHERE DO YOU SEE SPORTS MEDICINE AND

to make sure you are not overdoing it.

INNOVATION IN THE FIELD HEADED IN THE NEAR FUTURE? I think where real innovation will occur will be in the area of speeding up healing rates or decreasing effects

WHAT ARE THE MOST REWARDING ASPECTS OF BEING A PROFESSIONAL IN THIS FIELD OF MEDICINE?

of inflammatory chemicals -- these essentially biologic

I have always loved science, math and physics and I’ve

issues that we work with every day. Some of the bio-

been fascinated with the musculoskeletal system and

logic research is centered on trying to increase ways

its function. So, when I decided to go to medical school,

to augment healing of rotator cuff tendons or healing

orthopedics felt like the perfect fit for me. The more I stud-

of tendons into bone to assist with ligament recon-

ied orthopedics, the more I realized that the subspecialty

structions. In addition, we are also seeing research

of sports medicine was what I was most passionate about.

performed on biologics limiting scar tissue formation

There are so many rewarding aspects of being a pro-

or the production of harmful chemicals produced in

fessional in the fields of sports medicine. I love working

the body after injury. We are also seeing continued

with all types of athletes! Whether they are young or

research on cartilage growth for arthritic injuries in the

old, recreational athletes or high-level athletes, these

joints. So, I think some of our most exciting innovations

are people that love to move and do. I really enjoy that

will come from this field.

type of patient. In addition, many of the injuries or issues that athletes experience, we can treat very well and get

DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR YOUNG

most of these people "back on the field." I cannot tell

ATHLETES AND OLDER ATHLETES TO REDUCE

you how satisfying that is. To take a young athlete that

THE RISK OF INJURY WHILE MAINTAINING A

has suffered an ACL tear or a middle-aged or older ath-

REGULAR FITNESS ROUTINE?

lete that has suffered a rotator cuff tear—to be able to

Absolutely! But I do not think we really have time here

surgically fix the problem and watch them rehab and

to go over all the possible pieces of advice! I think that

then see them get back to what they love to do. That is

what much of it boils down to for athletes of all ages is to

an incredibly satisfying experience. CityLifestyle.com/Newtown

Newtown Lifestyle | February 2021

Tiffany Thomas-Smith, Esquire

Strategic Litigation Consulting • • • • • • • • • •

White Collar Crime and Tax Investigations Bankruptcy and Insolvency Issues Lender Services Chapter 11 Cases Economic Loss Calculations Employment/Wrongful Termination Suits and Personal Injury Divorce Matters Property Settlement Agreements Corporate Governance and Shareholder Issues Shareholder Disputes, Buyouts and Court Ordered Dissolutions

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Managing Director e-mail: kconner@connercpa.com

110 South State Street, Suite 200 | Newtown, Pennsylvania 18940 Tel: 215.860.3322 | Fax: 215.860.3653 | www.connercpa.com

CityLifestyle.com/Newtown

RENOVATE & REFINE

design trend alert: tile 2021 ARTICLE DONNA HOFFMAN

TILE IS AN OFTEN-OVERLOOKED INTERIOR DESIGN

choices and geometrics; colored grout that is re-invigo-

POWER TOOL. Done well, tile can drive mood, tempera-

rating subway tile, and, I’m loving those backsplashes

ture, style, and design vibe. But tile trends move fast.

going to the ceiling!

Here’s a recap of some “shop talk” I had with

Dave Mastrangelo: I agree. Generally, we’re seeing

my expert colleague Dave Mastrangelo, whose family

backsplashes with massive personality continuing: her-

has run the Tile Studio in Doylestown for 46 years.

ringbones, chevrons, scallops, arabesques. Shape is strong.

Donna Hoffman: Let’s do this Dave! What are the hot kitchen tile trends you see for 2021? I’m seeing bolder

As far as colored grout, here in Bucks County we’re seeing gray and charcoal, both of which look great.

Photo courtesy The Tile Studio, Doylestown PA and Zaveta Custom Homes

Newtown Lifestyle | February 2021

DH: I’ve seen red, green, blue and black grout nationally, but not here in Bucks yet. DM: Some real excitement is happening with solid slab porcelain in 5’ x 10’ sheets or larger. Picture it “book matched” in a shower. Or, running up a fireplace just as you would with stone. It’s spectacular, and with the ink jet printing used, it looks just like stone.

DM: Subway tile is timeless, but we’re seeing less of the standard 3” x 6”. People want larger sizes, or something that looks handmade. DH: You know, I also think application is part of trend. Where you put the tile is a trend. Remember those tiled kitchen counters

DH: Stunning. Must be very tough to install and transport.

that where a pain to clean? Glad that one went away. I am lov-

DM: It is. The slabs are so thin. You need a highly trained AND cer-

ing the innovation in tile application now: for example, running tile

tified installation team. But that’s true of all tile. It’s very costly to

from counter to ceiling or running tile up the front of an outdoor

correct the problems caused by poorly done handyman jobs.

bar. I’m about to propose to a client that they tile the inside of her

DH: What tile trends do you see changing?  DM: Encaustic tile is changing. It’s still popular as flooring in laundry rooms or powder rooms, but less so on backsplashes. And we haven’t seen tumbled stone specified in a while. DH: What about subway tile: Love it or hate it?

Butler Pantry glass cabinet doors for some extra eye candy. DM: Yes, all of those look great. Don’t forget about tiled accent walls in powder rooms. DH: Beyond the above, what other bathroom trends do you see for 2021? CONTINUED >

Photo courtesy The Tile Studio, Doylestown PA and Zaveta Custom Homes

Photo courtesy Interiors by Donna Hoffman and Zaveta Custom Homes. Tilework by The Tile Studio, Doylestown PA . Photographer Peter Rymwid CityLifestyle.com/Newtown

RENOVATE & REFINE (CONTINUED)

Donna Hoffman

“Generally, we’re seeing backsplashes with massive personality continuing: herringbones, chevrons, scallops, arabesques. Shape is strong.” DM: Large format tiles are SO “in” right now: tiles sizes that are 24” x 48”; 36” x 36”. People are moving away from grout lines. The trend is a seamless, sleek look. DH: Dave, I have about 2” left for this article! Quick! Any “outdoor” tile trends?

And yes, you guessed it, The Tile Studio is a certified installer's dream. Happy Tiling! Xo - d About Donna Hoffman: A multi-award-winning Bucks County based designer, Donna heads her design company specializing in new construction, renovation, whole home and full room design

DM: Yes! Exterior porcelain pavers are hot. They are “bullet proof”,

to deliver livable luxury to discerning clients. Seen in Forbes,

tougher than slate, and more durable than an outdoor paver or trav-

Real Simple, TV and radio, Donna is one of the nation’s design

ertine. And they won’t fade or get slippery when wet, making them

thought leaders and founded, TheInteriorDesignAdvocate.com

great for walkways or pool decks.

which provides on-line courses for DIY’ers.

DH: Thanks Dave! PS. Hey lovely reader: Dave suggests you head to www.ceramictilefoundation.org to find a certified installer.

Newtown Lifestyle | February 2021

It’s bowl time! Stop by Pineappleland Today or Download the Play Bowls App

to place your order! PlayaBowls.com/Order | (215) 550-6472 2913 South Eagle Road Newtown, PA 18940 CityLifestyle.com/Newtown

from bored to boards

Newtown Lifestyle | February 2021

ARTICLE CHRISTINE TOY DRAGONI

B O R E D TO 24

JULIA EISENBERG, OWNER OF “BOARDS BY JULIA” CREATES DECORATIVE (AND DELICIOUS!) FOCACCIA

IF YOU’RE LIKE MOST OF US, YOU FOUND YOURSELF WITH SOME EXTRA TIME WHEN THE QUARANTINE FORCED US TO BE HOMEBOUND BACK IN MARCH 2020. Many people a new skill. However, when things opened up a

She never expected the response from friends

bit in the summer, most of us were happy to pack

(and even strangers) that she received after

up our mess and half-hearted attempts at some-

posting her first decorative focaccia bread. The

thing worthy. For a few people though, the extra

comments started flooding in, asking “Where did

time and some newly discovered talents gave rise

you get that?” “ How can I get one?” Although

to something incredible. Newtown’s own Julia

she was flattered, it didn’t really occur to her that

Eisenberg is one of those people.

she could make these breads for other people. In

Julia is a recent graduate from Towson

fact, she made her first bread and posted photos

University with a bachelor's degree in Mass

in March, but didn’t decide to sell them until June.

Communications. She was just beginning her

Since then she has sold over 150 of the beautiful

career in Public Relations when the quarantine hit.

focaccia breads along with dozens of charcuterie

While working from home, trying to learn every-

boards and even platters of sweet treats. Word of

thing about her new job virtually, Julia stumbled

mouth, says Julia, is the primary way people learn

on a food magazine with artistic looking breads.

about her amazing delectable delights.

“I should try and make that,” Julia said to herself.

While this is definitely a side hustle for Julia,

So she did. Then she did what so many people do

she is proud to be able to offer something to her

nowadays; she posted it on social media.

customers that is unique and always one of a kind. Her mother, Amy Eisenberg, is a willing assistant and was one of the first to encourage Julia to sell these beautiful edible creations. Julia makes holiday-themed or special occasion themed breads, and is always interested in knowing something about the customer to make the bread or board personalized for them. Julia doesn’t consider herself an artist, but I would argue (and have) with her on that point. These breads are almost too pretty to eat, but I would recommend going for it. They are as pleasing to your mouth as they are to your eyes. Julia is still on her upward path in the world of Public Relations, but lucky for us, she manages to churn out these original works of food art for all of us to enjoy. Yes, something good has come out of 2020… something really, really, good! For more information, visit Boards by Julia: Instagram: @boards_by_julia

B OA R DS

started projects and crafts or attempted to learn

Facebook: Boards by Julia CityLifestyle.com/Newtown

DIY

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P R E T T Y P O M P O M W A L L H A N G I N G S 26

Newtown Lifestyle | February 2021

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CULINARY CREATIONS

sweet con fet t i FOR JAMIE DINARDI-DILL, OWNER OF SWEET CONFETTI DESSERT SHOP, EXPRESSING LOVE THROUGH FOOD HAS BEEN A “RED THREAD” THROUGHOUT HER LIFE, BEGINNING AT A VERY YOUNG AGE WHILE OBSERVING HER GRANDMOTHERS IN THE KITCHEN. Her Nana, cooking up classic Italian dishes, brought family and friends together over unforgettable meals, while her “Bubbe”, hosted memorable holiday baking weekends where she encouraged Jamie to express her creativity through a special blend of science and art. Over the years, Jamie’s passion in the kitchen became hyper focused on desserts. She started experimenting with baking and decorating, watching every tutorial, and reading every book she could get her hands on. “I couldn’t get enough,” she explains. “I fell in love with every aspect of desserts: the art, the colors, the design, and of course, the taste.” After graduating from Rutgers University, she considered opening a storefront, but the timing wasn’t quite right. She spent the next seven years building her career in marketing and event planning, with her last role being at Dylan’s Candy Bar in NYC as their Corporate Event Planner. “As amazing as that was,” she says, “I’ve always been an entrepreneur at heart, and finding a way to start my dessert shop was a dream I had to make into a reality.” When Jamie and her husband had an opportunity to live abroad, she poured her heart and soul into building a business plan to “hit the ground running” when she returned home. And that’s when Sweet Confetti was born. Sweet Confetti is based out of Newtown and specializes in unique, one-of-a-kind, curated dessert boxes that “taste as good as they look”. Jamie and her team also aim to inspire every baker at heart with DIY baking education, tips and tricks, recipes, and daily inspiration on their social media pages. “I’m so grateful for the opportunity to share my passion for baking with my local community and look forward to a “sweet” future for Sweet Confetti!” Sweet Confetti Email: hello@sweetconfettico.com Instagram: @sweetconfetti_ Facebook: @sweetconfettico 28

Newtown Lifestyle | February 2021

Mini Heart Red Velvet Cookie Sandwiches

Mini Heart Red Velvet Cookie Sandwiches with Cream Cheese Frosting COOKIES: + 1/2 c Unsalted Butter (Softened) + 1/2 c White Sugar + 1/2 c Brown Sugar + 1 Egg + 2 tbsp Buttermilk + 1 tsp Vanilla Extract + 2 tbsp Red Food Coloring + 1.5 c Flour + 1/2 tsp Baking Soda + 1/2 tsp Salt + 1/4 c Unsweetened Cocoa Powder FROSTING: + 8 oz Cream Cheese (Softened) + 8 tbsp Unsalted Butter (Softened) + 3 c Powdered Sugar + 1/2 tsp Pure Vanilla Extract CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Newtown

CULINARY CREATIONS (CONTINUED)

COOKIES: 1. In a large bowl, using a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment or hand mixer, beat butter and sugars together until light and fluffy. 2. Beat in egg, buttermilk and vanilla until combined. 3. Stir in red food coloring. 4. In separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt and cocoa powder. 5. Slowly stir dry ingredients into wet ingredients until fully combined. 6. Chill dough for 30 minutes. 7. Scoop out balls of dough (about 1 tbsp portions) and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. 8. Bake for 7-11 minutes. 9. Allow to set on pan for 5 minutes before transferring to cooling rack.

FROSTING: 1. Beat cream cheese and butter for several minutes until well combined. 2. Slowly add powdered sugar with your mixer on low. Beat on high until well incorporated. 3. Beat in vanilla extract. 4. If frosting appears too thin, add more powdered sugar. You can also place in refrigerated to allow frosting to set a bit before piping onto cookies.

ASSEMBLY: 1. Using a small heart cookie cutter, cut out heart shapes from whole cookies. 2. Match heart cookies up in pairs to be sandwiched together. 3. Pipe or spread cream cheese frosting on top of one heart cookie and sandwich with the other. 4. Apply Valentines sprinkles or other edible decorations to the perimeter of the cookie sandwiches. 5. Allow to set and enjoy!

Newtown Lifestyle | February 2021

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E N G LI S H E LE G A N C E DRIVING THROUGH THE SERENE, BUCOLIC SURROUNDINGS OF NEWTOWN AND UPPER MAKEFIELD, WE ARE ACCUSTOMED TO SEEING BEAUTIFULLY RESTORED FARMHOUSES, IMPRESSIVE BRICK ESTATES AND A SPRINKLING OF COLONIAL AND MID-CENTURY MODERN HOMES. However, privately situated off Lower Mountain Road in Solebury, sits an unexpected and exquisite reproduction English Manor, surrounded by 10 acres of gorgeous countryside. With its stunning architecture and magnificent

Newtown Lifestyle | February 2021

STATELY MANOR IN SOLEBURY IS AN ARCHITECTURAL GEM

setting, the meticulously maintained 12,890 sq foot estate is truly sophisticated, offering a one-of-a-kind living experience. As you enter the estate grounds along the tree-lined Governor’s driveway, you will notice the impressive exterior, which includes a paver courtyard, custom masonry, towering brick chimneys and a slate roof that is reminiscent of a European estate. Entering the home’s spacious and welcoming foyer, you will immediately feel the charm and elegance of the manor. The interior of the 5 bedroom, 6 full and 2 half bath home highlights beautiful details including ornate millwork, deep set windows, random width wood floors, wonderful ceiling heights, and high-end finishes around every turn. The designer kitchen CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Newtown

E L E G A N C E

OPEN HOUSE (CONTINUED)

www.6035LowerMountainRoad.com Offered by Jay Spaziano of Jay Spaziano Real Estate 1113 General Washington Memorial Blvd, Washington Crossing, PA 18977 215-860-2800 www.jayspaziano.com

features an inviting dining area with masonry fireplace with limestone surround and flows effortlessly to a gorgeous light-filled sunroom with pitched glass ceiling and wall-to-wall windows. Views of the stunning gardens can be enjoyed from the impressive limestone balcony or bluestone patio, or while lounging at the pool, complete with sundeck and spacious pool house. This unique home offers a fantastic blend of traditional English elegance and attention to detail with a modern twist, melding the best of both worlds in terms of sophistication and comfort. 34

Newtown Lifestyle | February 2021

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