J U LY 2 02 1
Celebrate Summer
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LIFESTYLE LETTER
JULY 2021 PUBLISHER
Dana Weissenberg | Dana.Weissenberg@lifestylepubs.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Oh summer, are we glad to see you! KIDS ARE DONE SCHOOL AND NOW IT'S TIME TO PLAN SOME FUN ADVENTURES. Whether you're a sit by the pool or head down the shore kind of a
Stacy Graebner | stacy.graebner@lifestylepubs.com AD DESIGNER
Evan Deuvall L AYO UT DESIGNER
Jayme Emery
person, it's always good to have some solid summer reading lined up. We found a few great selections and the best part, they are ALL by local authors. Looking for some dining options less than 30 minutes away that offer a great outside dining experience and great food? We've got you covered! From amazing seafood to good ole BBQ. Plus there’s a new baker in town you must check out. SugarBomb will be sure to delight with several unique and scrumptious baked good options! Have you ever experienced a beautiful summer day when suddenly dark clouds roll in creating an eery scene that makes you run for cover? Alexandru Bruschini, a local meteorologist and photographer, explains how extreme weather in this region is common and actually quite normal. As always the very talented Donna Hoffman is sharing some tips on how to create your outside oasis and most importantly how to avoid common mistakes that can cost you time and money!
CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore
With so much do in Newtown and easy access to beaches and parks, we hope you
ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor
have a lovely summer and make the most of it! Have a fun and safe 4th of July!
OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell
Dana Weissenberg, Publisher
514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO
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CityLifestyle.com/Newtown
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
4
Newtown Lifestyle | July 2021
accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.
TOM GRIMES PHOTOGRAPHY
Design a Life Well Lived / Full-Service Interior Design KARIN@KARINECKERSONINTERIORS.COM | WWW.KARINECKERSONINTERIORS.COM (609) 474-0069 | PENNINGTON , NEW JERSEY
INSIDE THE ISSUE JULY 2021
FEATURES 12 Destination Dining Four fabulous restaurants with outdoor dining that are worth the drive
20 Backyard Oasis How to avoid common mistakes in outdoor design
26 ‘Eye’ of the Storm Local meteorologist and photographer documents the aweinspiring power of Mother Nature
20 12
32 SugarBomb New bakery hits the sugar scene in Newtown
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DEPARTMENTS 4
Lifestyle Letter
8
Around Town
12
Hot Spot
20 Open House 30 Realty Report 32 Local Limelight 34 Page Turners 38 Road Trip
AROUND TOWN
summer unWINEd series on Saturday, July 3rd. The
STRADA OPENS ON STATE STREET
event will feature live music from The Sensational
STRADA, a new stylish men and women's cloth-
Soul Cruisers and fireworks to end the night.
ing boutique hosted their grand opening in May.
Bring a lawn chair, and enjoy the music under the
The store features women's loungewear, clothing
stars. There will be activities for kids, wine, locally
for every day, and trendy pieces for going out, with
brewed beer, themed cocktails and tasty food. No
brands such as Frame, LA Biz, Barok Paris, Misha
outside food or drink is permitted. Gates open at
Brand, Muche et Muchette and Posh Couture.
5pm, music begins at 6:30pm. It is recommended
Men will find crews, graphic tees, jeans, jackets,
that tickets be purchased ahead online. If the event
button-downs, and blazers for everyday wear and
sells out, no tickets will be sold at the door. Kids 23
a night out. Choose from brands like, Joe’s Jeans,
months and younger are free.
Hudson, Vince, DL1961 Premium Denim, Bottega
"ADOPT A SEAT" TO SUPPORT RENOVATIONS OF THE NEWTOWN THEATRE!
and Robert Graham. Open Tues-Sun 11-6pm. 28 South State Street, Newtown PA.
In August, the Newtown Theatre will kick off Phase
CELEBRATE FOURTH OF JULY AT SHADY BROOK FARM, SATURDAY JULY 3RD
1 of major renovations including a new hardwood
In celebration of Independence Day, Shady
and more! Newtown residents have the opportunity
Brook Farm will host a special concert as part of its
to support these plans through an "Adopt a Seat"
floor, vintage-style seats, a new interior coat of paint,
Haldeman Lexus of Princeton Top Selection of New & Quality Pre-Owned Vehicles Just Minutes from Bucks County
Complimentary Valet Pickup & Car Wash for Service Complimentary PA State Inspection Included with all New Purchases
www.haldemanlexus.com | (609) 375-1000 8
Newtown Lifestyle | July 2021
|
INTRODUCING THE ALL NEW 2021 LEXUS IS
2630 Brunswick Pike, Business Route #1 North, Lawrenceville, NJ 08648
program which runs through July 31st. Donors can leave their mark on Newtown history by adding your name or business, a short message, or the
PEDDLER'S VILLAGE HOSTS RED, WHITE AND BLUE BBQ BASH
name of someone you would like to honor on the
Peddler's Village will host its classic barbeque
arm of a brand new seat. Adopt one seat for $500,
picnic on July 3rd and 4th. They will be serving
or up to two seats for $1,000, with additional seats
all-American grilled favorites and featuring live
and added benefits available for larger donations.
music, family entertainment and kids activities! July
visit https://www.thenewtowntheatre.
3, 12pm - July 4, 5pm. Peddler's Village, Routes 202
Please
com/adopt-a-seat for more information.
&263, Lahaska, PA.
CUSTOM RESIDENTIAL HISTORIC RENOVATION SMALL COMMERCIAL JOELPETTY.COM
215-321-4477
BUCKS COUNTY, PA CityLifestyle.com/Newtown
9
HOT SPOT
4 FABU S LOU R TAU RE S
T AN H IT SW
OU
T
O
OR
SE AT IN
GT HA TA RE W ORTH
THE DRIVE
THERE IS JUST SOMETHING SPECIAL
In these pages, we have broadened our
ABOUT ALFRESCO DINING ON A BEAU-
scope a bit to bring you some outdoor din-
TIFUL SUMMER NIGHT! Perhaps it’s
ing options for those times you can’t stray
the fresh air, the energy, the company, the
too far from home but are in need of some
cocktails, the food, or maybe it’s the feeling
fun or a relaxing reset!
of being whisked away to somewhere else; putting us in vacation mode even if just a few miles from home.
12
Newtown Lifestyle | July 2021
+ DESTINATION
ARTICLE BETH CRAWFORD
D
DI N I NG +
JULES@MARKET 111 M A R K E T S T R E E T B R I S T O L , P A 2 15 - 4 5 8 -7 6 2 2 With accolades galore including “Best Seafood Restaurant” in Philadelphia as per Philadelphia Magazine and Top Chef in Bucks County, owner Jules and Chef Bobby have been serving up sustainable ocean to table seafood in the charming historic waterfront district of Bristol Borough since November 2017. Jules at Market’s success begins with fresh seafood purchased from fish mongers, Samuels and Sons; purveyors with the highest quality standards as set by the Marine Stewardship Council and Monterey Bay Aquarium. These two highly regarded, independent seafood ranking companies allow consumers to enjoy dining with confidence. Additionally, Jules personally strives for a 48 hour harvest date from water to table! Popular menu items include their award winning crab cakes, the seafood tower, jumbo scallops, and their extensive selection of fresh fish, steaks and chops. Hard to find delicacies such as Florida stone crabs, Dover sole, and soft shells are available seasonally. With regards to cooking preparation, Jules states, “Our cooking preparation is simple. All dishes are sautéed; you will never find anything fried, baked, or stuffed on our menu. We stay out of the way and let the integrity of each carefully sourced ingredient shine through.” Still want more? Try a scrumptious dessert or two created by their wildly innovative sous chef, Sam! A 20x40 tent elegantly appointed with white table cloths and seasonal florals elevate the experience making Jules at Market the perfect mix of unpretentious sophistication that is well suited for both casual and special occasion dining. Jules@Market is BYOB. Hours: Wednesday - Saturday 5-10:00. Check out their live music schedule and don’t miss “buck-a-shuck” Wednesday’s - $1 “shucked to order oysters” with the purchase of an entrée. Reservations are accepted on Open Table or by texting 609-954-2372.
CONTINUED >
CityLifestyle.com/Newtown
13
HOT SPOT (CONTINUED)
THE LANDING R E S T A U R A N T 22 NORTH MAIN STREET NEW H O P E , P A 215 - 8 6 2-5711 The Cretella’s and The Landmark Hospitality
team
have
been
busy,
busy this past year. First they began a major renovation of the Logan Inn and Mansion which is scheduled to open this summer, then amidst the pandemic they acquired The Landing Restaurant in New Hope, PA. The Landing opened its door back in May, and we could not be happier to include this summer favorite in our alfresco dining segment! First, we should warn you that the beautiful
grounds
of
The
Landing
Restaurant might take your breath away; a sumptuous garden along with overflowing flower pots lead patrons to their stunning riverside terrace. This oversized patio with bright red umbrellas, new tables, and more flowers provides diners with a spectacular front row river view seat. Landmark Hospitality recognizes that some of our best memories are made over food. That said, they believe that there are three components that
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make for a positive dining experience 1)
farm to table inspired American Continental cuisine. Popular menu items include
an upbeat, cheery, colorful atmosphere,
glazed fig or prosciutto and goat cheese flatbreads, roasted pear and beet salad,
2) delicious food, and 3) great service.
shrimp and fish tacos, the Landing burger, a recently added charcuterie board,
Fun fact: they even refer to their friendly
and our personal favorite, the black bean nachos! Interested in a summer cock-
staff as “memory makers”.
tail? Casey and the other bartenders are happy to help you quench your thirst.
General Manager, Maggie noted that
Try the seasonal sangria, planters punch, a cold beer, mimosa, or a nice glass
the new Landing will be making some
of wine. Non-alcoholic mango white tea, the Pomegranate-Blueberry refresher
small changes over time, but the welcom-
and other mocktails are also available. Terrace seating is first come and is open
ing, relaxed feeling you’ve always enjoyed
for Lunch, Dinner and Sunday Bruch. Hours of operation are Monday-Thursday
is staying put as is their emphasis on fresh
11:30-9:00; Friday-Saturday 11:30-11:00; Sunday 10:00-9:00.
Newtown Lifestyle | July 2021
E R I N I R E S T A U R A N T 114 0 R I V E R R O A D E W IN G T O W N S H I P, N J 6 0 9 - 8 8 2 - 0 3 0 3 Close your eyes and imagine sipping on a Mai Tai in a lush tropical garden surrounded by tiki torches and palm trees. Add some Mediterranean inspired cuisine…perhaps a Meze Platter with homemade hummus and feta, fresh grilled octopus, lollipop lamb chops, or ahi tuna and now open your eyes. Did you escape briefly to another land? If so, the Fifis family has accomplished exactly what they set out to do back in 2007. Their vision to create a place where diners come to enjoy, relax, and escape reality for a couple of hours can be found just over the bridge at Erini Restaurant in Ewing, NJ. We chatted with co-owner, Chef Nick as he was leaving a local tree farm with a truck full of new palms for the patio. Erini, derived from the Greek word “peace”, is known for their Mediterranean inspired cuisine; classic family recipes with a modern day twist. While their food is top priority, he went on to passionately explain the concept referred to as “SALT” (Sound, Ambiance, Lighting, and Temperature). The tranquil sound of pond-less waterfalls, the carefully positioned lighting, music that changes seasonally, and an underground greenhouse that keeps the Elephant Ears and Caladiums flourishing all year round are just a few examples of how Erini has incorporated each of these elements to achieve their intentional vibe. Separately, these features are nice but when properly combined, they work harmoniously to elevate the dining experience. This master chef began picking string beans for $5 a bushel at the age of 5 before graduating to head toast maker at the family’s Cherry Hill Diner, Ponzio’s. Things began to heat up after being hired as sous chef and working for some of Philly’s top restaurants; Continental, Buddakan,
World
Fusion,
and
Amada.
However, the real fun came with the birth of Erini; a magical space that would become a culmination of Nick and his family’s experiences and Greek heritage. The Fifis family, along with General Manager and bartender Kyle Hillman, run a tight ship leaving no stone unturned. That said, it is no surprise that when it comes to quality, they only serve the very best; Angus beef, sushi grade and wild caught seafood, innovative craft cocktails, and scratch-made dessert are sure to round out the perfect dining experience and escape! Hours: Monday - Thursday 11:30 -9:00; Fri-Saturday 11:30 AM-10:00; Sunday 3:00-9:00. Reservations are accepted and can be made on RESY. CONTINUED >
CityLifestyle.com/Newtown
15
HOT SPOT (CONTINUED)
HOLY QUE SMOKEHOUSE 5788 LOWER YORK R O A D L A H A S K A , P A 267-544-5762 It is July, friends, and you know what that means….time for some Barbeque! Holy Que Smokehouse in Lahaska, PA has been on fire since they opened in November 2020! Owner, Tom Peters hung up his real-estate hat after 22 years and began smokin’ everything he could get his hands on: brisket, ribs, sausage links and pork! Good barbeque is serious business; Tom and his posse smoke more than 700 lbs. of meat daily! Holy Que Smokes, that is no joke! Tom educated us on the different types of barbeque; Kansas City, Memphis and Carolina, but @holyquesmokes keeps it low, slow, and Texas style! A little kosher salt and pepper dry rub is all that’s needed to keep the crowds coming back again and again! What? No BBQ sauce? Don’t worry your pretty little head; if you like your barbeque smothered, they’ve got you covered. Plus, you’ve got decisions to make, important decisions like which sides to pick. Choose from mac-
TIP: reservations are not accepted so to avoid disappointment, give a call
n-cheese, baked beans, cider slaw,
before you go; when they run out, they run out! Hours: Wednesday – Saturday
creamed corn, greens or honey corn
11:00-6:00; Sunday 12:00-4:00.
bread. Can’t decide? Give ‘em all a try!
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Grab some friends and indulge in
Beth Crawford is the founder and former director of BC Discoveries Dance
some delicious barbeque while hang-
and Theater Arts Co. After many years of working in dance and theater pro-
ing out back @HolyQuesmokes where
duction, she has shifted gears to serving the local community as a social
it always “feels like home”! Holy Que
media manager and freelance writer. She is currently a blogger for Bucks
Smokehouse is BYOB with live music
on Trend where she highlights the fabulous local small businesses in Bucks
on Saturday’s. Catering is also available.
County. IG: @bucksontrend.
Newtown Lifestyle | July 2021
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19
OPEN HOUSE
ARTICLE DONNA HOFFMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY PETER RYMWID
Outdoor furnishings designed by Interiors by Donna Hoffman, Photography by Peter Rymwid
B AC K YA R D OA S I S 20
Newtown Lifestyle | July 2021
HOW TO AVOID COMMON MISTAKES IN OUTDOOR DESIGN
QUESTION: WHAT DO YOU GET WHEN YOU CROSS CHAISE LOUNGES AND A PATIO WITH A GRILL AND DINING TABLE FOR 8? Answer: Either your little slice of outdoor heaven, or a trip to that other place! People consistently err in outdoor design in the same areas and to the tune of dollars shredded, opportunities missed and abounding frustration. Outdoor design is not without cost or complexity so this article is intended to see your safe passage to the outdoor space that will feed your soul. WHAT IS AT PLAY: There are certain, “rules of the road’ – for indoor or outdoor design that are ignored at your own peril. The first of these rules is that form (beauty) follows function. One of the first lessons taught in design school: You must optimize function of any space first, then you make it beautiful. AS APPLIED TO YOUR OUTDOOR SPACE: + Make sure you can comfortably and safely move around and between all furnishings themselves as well as the functional hardscaping (patio edges, deck steps, railings, pools, etc). + Make sure your outdoor furnished spaces seat the number of people you want AND in the way you want – sitting upright, lounging or reclining.
Outdoor furnishings designed by Interiors by Donna Hoffman
CONTINUED >
CityLifestyle.com/Newtown
21
OPEN HOUSE (CONTINUED)
+ Try not to fall into the aesthetic trap shown in catalogs of matchy-matchy with a side order of more “matchy-ness”. (Thank you Grandin Road catalog) Let’s break it down and pull no punches … because I love you. Rule #1: Furniture layout and spacing will either make a space feel and look fantastic, or, if you blow it, your outdoor space will look and feel like @#%*. PERIOD. Think about it. I could design the most stunning outdoor patio and pool deck for you, but if it is underfilled with too little furniture, it will forever feel cold and unfinished to you, no matter how handsome the furnishings. Conversely, if I packed the furnishings so tightly that you can’t comfortably move between the end of a chaise and your pool, or the back of a dining chair and the grill, the space would forever feel crowded and uncomfortable, looking terrible too. Furniture layout - specifically space planning – is the most misunderstood and underrated piece of design. But I ask you: Did Coco Chanel ever build a dress without a sketch and a pattern? I want you to channel your inner Coco. You need a space plan. Don’t shortchange this step, and don’t rely on a talented, green-thumbed landscape architect to save you here. Completely different skill set. I do suggest a professional designer if budget affords – or if you’re DIY all the way – invest in an online space planning program and self-educate the best you can. Rule #2: Make sure your outdoor space seats the number of people you want and in the way you want. I always ask clients how they want to use a space. Do you like to have your feet up while you hang in a lounge chair, then a firepit with a generous ledge might do the trick. Prefer to sunbathe with each of your kids? Then having a chaise lounge per family member is must. That is….if there is an available 72” of length for the chaises before the pool’s edge, plus 36” for pass through. Design is math…who knew?
22
Newtown Lifestyle | July 2021
Outdoor furnishings designed by Interiors by Donna Hoffman
Donna Hoffman
Be sure to answer the question: How do
I encourage you to find one of the fabulous
I want this Patio/Deck/Pool Deck/Outdoor
interior designers available to you here in
Room/Covered Porch to function and then
the great County of Bucks. A good designer
work backwards from there.
is worth her weight in gold….or pool floats.
Rule #3: Outdoor design is trending
Happy designing, lovely!
into greater sophistication with vendors pushing the limits of indoor aesthetic and comfort into outdoor fabrics and frames.
About Donna Hoffman: A multiaward-winning Bucks County based
Designers achieve a high-end look by
designer, Hoffman’s company, Interiors
mixing textures and silhouettes, rather than
by Donna Hoffman, specializes in
settling into matchy-matchy – the way the
new construction, renovation, whole
catalogs show. Must you use the exact
home and full room design, delivering
furniture suite all over a yard? A design pro-
livable luxury to discerning clients.
fessional would say no, instead suggesting
Seen in Forbes, Real Simple, TV and
layering silhouettes, finishes and fabrics as
radio, Donna is considered a design
we do indoors. This said, try to keep your
thought leader. Called the nation’s #1
finishes and fabrics to a contained mini-
design coach because she founded
mum for a truly elegant and resort feel.
TheInteriorDesignAdvocate.com,
And, if you feel this is all above your pay-
Donna also loves providing on-line
grade and you don’t want to blow it after
courses that empower DIY’ers across
investing as you have in your hardscaping,
the country.
CityLifestyle.com/Newtown
23
Tiffany Thomas-Smith, Esquire
Find the ring that
speaks to you
M I C H A E L’ S JEWELERS YARDLEY / FAIRLESS HILLS 24
Newtown Lifestyle | July 2021
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CityLifestyle.com/Newtown
25
‘ E Y E ’ OF THE S T OR M
A cold front approaching the Delaware River Basin (Photo courtesy of Alexandru Bruschini)
LOCAL METEOROLOGIST AND PHOTOGRAPHER DOCUMENTS THE AWE-INSPIRING POWER OF MOTHER NATURE
26
Newtown Lifestyle | July 2021
PHOTOGRAPHY ALEXANDRU BRUSCHINI
A tornado warned thunderstorm cell in NJ (Photo courtesy of Alexandru Bruschini)
HURRICANES, TORNADOES, THUNDERSTORMS,
thing that is predictable is the unpredictability of wild
DAMAGING WINDS… ALTHOUGH WE USUALLY
weather striking where we least expect it! It comes
ASSOCIATE SUMMER WITH BLUE SKIES AND SUN-
as no surprise then that Pennsylvania averages about
SHINE (AND ALONG THE EAST COAST, EXCESSIVE
16 tornadoes per year, per the National Oceanic and
HUMIDITY AND BAD HAIR DAYS!), JUNE AND JULY
Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), with thunder-
ARE ACTUALLY THE MOST LIKELY MONTHS TO
storms, high winds and flooding also a recurring theme
BRING US SEVERE WEATHER EVENTS. This occurs
in our summer experiences.
because of higher amounts of convective activity (rapid
With severe weather becoming more common in this
changing of atmospheric molecules) during the sum-
area and throughout the country, Alexandru’s role has
mer compared to other seasons. Alexandru Bruschini
expanded beyond the Delaware Valley, as he now serves
(Brandon) knows this well, and in fact has made a career
as a member of the U.S. Government’s Natural Disaster
of tracking these natural phenomena. A Yardley native
Team. Working in natural disasters took Alexandru’s
and graduate of Penn State’s rigorous meteorology pro-
career in a direction he hadn’t anticipated. He had
gram, Alexandru works behind the scenes to predict this
always enjoyed photography as a hobby, but his new role
area’s ever shifting weather patterns, which is no easy
allowed him to blend his two talents. Covering tornadoes,
feat. In fact, the Delaware Valley is one of the hardest
wildfires, floods, hurricanes, severe thunderstorms and
areas in the nation in which to predict weather because
Nor’ Easter impact zones across the U.S. and beyond,
of variable seasonal temperatures, winds, bodies of
Alexandru finds himself perpetually on call to rush to
water and varied terrain. The large ground fluctuations of
the scene of an impending disaster area when a storm
the Delaware Valley and the rolling hills of the Piedmont
hits to collect information and document destruction
combined with the sharp cutoff at the Delaware River
photographically. The assignments keep Alexandru on
separating the hilly Pennsylvania terrain from the flat
his toes, and his cameras fully charged, “Pre-pandemic,
land surface (plateau) found in New Jersey makes this
I was travelling over 300,000 air miles a year to pre and
area a prime location for upper level wind disturbances.
post natural disaster points. I have seen the nation by
Throw in the ocean wind from the coast and the dif-
car, boat, plane and train, coast to coast, island to island,
fering wind currents over the mountains, and the only
desert to farms, with the Rocky Mountains in between”.
CONTINUED >
CityLifestyle.com/Newtown
27
‘EYE’ OF THE STORM (CONTINUED)
Once on site, Alexandru’s days are spent capturing the land-
I tell people every day, be happy for what you have. Count the
scape of the world through the lens of a camera or drone, often
blessings that you have a roof over your head, clean water,
while flying in a helicopter or from a unique perspective on the
green grass, and an interstate to drive on. When a disaster hits,
ground, holding a Surface tablet on his lap to distinguish vari-
it reminds us that we have a lot to be thankful for.”
ous situations while collecting and analyzing data. Although the work can be intense at times - during peak
https://www.facebook.com/Bruschnado/
sometimes put him in precarious situations, including tum-
https://www.instagram.com/the_weatha_man/
bling down the side of a 20 foot cliff while tracking wildfires, the job has impacted him in ways he never imagined. “I’ve learned to take every day of my career with much gratitude
28
For more on Alexandru's photography:
storm periods, Alexandru works 14-20 hour days, and can
Newtown Lifestyle | July 2021
A 'fiery sunset' after a storm passes through Newtown (Photo courtesy of Alexandru Bruschini)
Family Style Italian Kitchen 18 S WA M P R OA D N E W T OW N
Italian Speciality Market and Catering 18 6 N. S YC A MOR E S T R E E T N E W T OW N
In-House Photographer and Event Stylist Roe Masso can create and capture your special event on or off premise. M O R E I N F O : R O E M A S S O.C O M
Those who know...KNOW! (2 15) 57 9 -8 3 01 O L A STA L L A R ESTAU R A N T.COM CityLifestyle.com/Newtown
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REALTY REPORT
REALTY REPORT
NEWTOWN
NEIGHBORHOOD
ORIGINAL PRICE
SOLD PRICE
%SOLD/ORIG
DOM
BDRMS
BATHS
1057 Creamery Rd
$2,725,000
$2,725,000
100%
1
4
6
1 Bryce Lane
$1,849,000
$1,825,000
99%
3
6
8
36 Bayshore Dr
$1,499,000
$1,525,000
102%
0
4
8
318 Pineville Rd
$1,895,000
$1,450,000
77%
187
4
4
15 Spring Oak Dr
$1,325,000
$1,365,000
103%
5
4
4
$969,900
$1,050,000
108%
1
5
4
630 Pineville Rd
$1,050,000
$1,050,000
100%
62
3
3
1981 Boxwood Dr
$949,900
$890,000
94%
8
5
5
916 Mount Eyre Rd
$919,000
$890,000
97%
59
5
5
287 N Lincoln Ave
$859,000
$842,500
98%
38
6
4
9 Madison Ct
$699,999
$705,000
101%
6
4
3
228 Sentinel Ave
$625,000
$690,000
110%
6
4
3
125 Ranch Rd
$699,900
$686,000
98%
28
4
3
61 Spring Garden Mill Dr
$639,500
$661,000
103%
4
5
3
114 Thornhill Ln
$625,000
$630,000
101%
6
3
3
10 Delaney Dr
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31
LOCAL LIMELIGHT
sugarbomb ARTICLE CHRISTINE TOY DRAGONI
WHAT IS SUGARBOMB? SugarBomb is the delicious
Stephanie says she feels like she has always been in
creation turned business of Newtown’s own Stephanie
a kitchen, watching, learning and eventually creating -
Eubanks. Stephanie turned her own creative hot choc-
beginning at age 3! She began learning simply by watch-
olate bombs into a new bakery business that recently
ing and sitting with her grandmother when she cooked
hit the Newtown sugar scene. The bakery will be armed
for her family when she was very young. Later, her father
with seasonal hot chocolate bombs and cupcakes, as
started to really teach her how to cook which ultimately
well as specialty cakes.
led her to work in restaurants most of her life. This path
A Virginia native, Stephanie has called Newtown home for the past 12 years since following the love of her life,
32
had Stephanie working as everything from a waitress and bartender, to a prep cook and then chef.
Matt Eubanks, to our town. It didn’t take her long to get
Stephanie has had several mentors throughout the
immersed in Newtown life by becoming a Deacon in a
years that extended beyond her family circle. She worked
local church as well as a member of Next Gen Rotary Club.
for Barley Sheaf Farm’s executive chef Josh Homacki as
Newtown Lifestyle | July 2021
a breakfast chef, while Melissa Wieczorek and Theo Petron of Zest
include The Chocolate Pig, a chocolate cupcake infused with bacon
Culinary introduced her to the world of personalized food service.
and topped with maple buttercream, and a seasonal Lemon Sunshine
Stephanie loved the food service business and was inspired to
cupcake which is a vanilla cupcake filled with freshly made lemon curd
continue to learn and grow in it. However, following the birth of her
and topped with vanilla buttercream (yum and more yum!). Launching
daughter Ava, there was one thing that kept nagging at her that led
SugarBomb, Stephanie has found a way to create and serve others on
her to leave the fast-paced business; work-life balance. Stephanie
her own time and still give her best to her own family. She truly believes
loved cooking and serving, but she worried that she wouldn’t be able
that “everything happens for a reason and this is my time to shine”. She
to do what she loved and take care of who she loved. Stephanie took
has faith that she will make a success of her own business in the indus-
a step back to raise her now 7 year old daughter.
try that she has been surrounded by her entire life - a business that was
It was while creating something magical for Ava and other family members at Christmastime, that Stephanie had the idea to make her own way and forge her own path. She began making hot chocolate bombs
inspired by her love and care for her family. Her faith and hope for the future of SugarBomb is infectious and we believe Newtown is in for a real treat!
that were such a hit, she started experimenting with additional sweet
Order online:
treats, finding a passion in developing a full line of bakery goods….and
Thesugarbomb.com
with that, SugarBomb bakery was born. Some of her signature treats
IG: @sugarbombnewtown
Vanilla Madeleines with white chocolate and rose petals
The Chocolate Pig cupcake (Chocolate cupcake infused with bacon topped with maple buttercream & bacon) CityLifestyle.com/Newtown
33
PAGE TURNERS
summer reads
The Thousand Dollar Dinner
Summer Sand Road
Brilliantly Resilient
By Becky Libourel Diamond
By Katie Schulze-Bahn
By Kristin Smedley & Mary Fran Bontempo
are
A young islander named Katie is
Why do some people come through
among the most popular cooking shows
“Top
Chef”
style
competitions
enjoying life running wild and free
life’s challenges stronger than they were
today. But did you know America’s leading
among salt air and seagulls, until a
before? It has nothing to do with luck, but
restaurateurs were staging cooking chal-
summer storm turns her world upside
everything to do with living the Brilliantly
lenges over 150 years ago? These culinary
down. Forced to move to a forest town
Resilient way! Get ready to laugh out loud
duels determined whether New York or
in Southern New Jersey, life starts over,
as these two women share their journeys,
Philadelphia could deliver the most dec-
but – in a way – it’s just beginning for
tools, and stumbled-upon secrets, saving
adent feast. The most prominent kicked
her. On a warm summer morning, she
you a seat on their Brilliantly Resilient ride
off in 1851 at the very posh Delmonico’s in
unexpectedly meets a boy named Will.
of a lifetime. Kristin and Mary Fran will
New York. The Philadelphians then coun-
Their instant friendship is a story of love,
guide you through life’s “sucker punches”
tered with a twelve-hour feast at their city’s
loss, and growing up, and all in a very
so you too will be brilliant, not broken. As
finest, James W. Parkinson’s restaurant,
special place called the Pine Barrens.
Rob Angel, the creator of Pictionary put it:
which became known as the “Thousand
Author Katie Schulze-Bahn was raised in
“Kristin & Mary Fran are funny, approach-
Dollar Dinner” (since it cost $1,000, or about
a small farming town in the Pine Barrens,
able and completely relatable. Game
$34,000 today). In The Thousand Dollar
very close to a little sandy island. It is the
changers for sure.”
Dinner, Becky Diamond reveals the entire
place of her heart and soul. She is a wife,
Newtown resident Kristin Smedley and
seventeen-course meal, course by course,
and mother of 4 children and 2 rescue
Mary Fran Bontempo are TEDx speakers,
explaining each dish and its history.
dogs. She’s an avid gardener, loves all
authors, virtual presenters, program cre-
Author Becky Libourel Diamond is a
things flora and fauna and also enjoys sail-
ators/facilitators, media hosts and advo-
food writer, librarian and research historian.
ing, kayaking, and hiking: all of which she’s
cates in the blindness and recovery com-
She is the author of Mrs. Goodfellow: The
been relishing from a very young age. She
munities. They created Brilliantly Resilient
Story of America’s First Cooking School
currently lives in Newtown.
to be the resource they wish they had when
and is currently partnering with fellow epi-
dealing with their own train wrecks and
curean Max Tucci to write Celebrations:
sucker punches.
Entertaining the Delmonico Way and Process: The History of Processed Food. She lives in Yardley, PA. 34
Newtown Lifestyle | July 2021
6 BOOKS BY LOCAL AUTHORS TO ADD TO YOUR SUMMER READING LIST ARTICLE STACY GRAEBNER
Lost, Found, & Forever
Then there was you
A Teacher Like You
By Victoria Schade
By Mona Shroff
By Frank Murphy and Barbara Dan
Justine Becker could not be more in love with her rescue dog, Spencer. However,
Can a perfect love heal even your deepest wounds?
Teachers impact their students’ lives every day and in so many ways, and
when she discovers a heartbreaking
As a helicopter medic, Daniel Bliant is a
their role in society has never been more
social media post, she realizes that her
calm presence for trauma victims on the
important. From the moment a student
beloved pup might actually belong to
worst day of their lives. So why can’t he
enters a classroom, these caring and cou-
someone else. Her worst fears are real-
heal himself? When he answers an emer-
rageous professionals go beyond teaching
ized when she and Spencer meet up with
gency call, he can’t believe who he finds:
to the curriculum, often stepping into roles
Brooklyn-based Griffin McCabe, and he
the beautiful woman he saw in his ER
to help sustain students’ physical and
wants Spencer back. The not-so-friendly
months ago and hasn’t been able to stop
emotional needs. A Teacher Like You is a
competition teeters on the edge of flat-
thinking about.
loving tribute to educators everywhere,
out hate, so when romantic feelings for
Annika Mehta may be reeling from a
thanking them for the countless ways they
Griffin catch Justine off guard, she needs
bad breakup and the terrible event that
encourage, support, and care for their
to determine if it’s all part of his plot to win
caused it, but she knows she’s resilient.
students... and assuring them their impact
the pup back, or if the guy who was good
What she doesn’t need is Daniel. He’s
will be felt for years to come.
enough for Spencer might also be good
wrong for her in every way, but somehow,
enough for her.
she can’t let him go.
Frank
Murphy’s
children’s
books
include The Legend of the Teddy Bear,
Author Victoria Schade has been a dog
This tear-jerker of a romance follows two
and the award winning A Boy Like You
trainer and writer for over twenty years. She
souls in need of healing—when all roads
and A Girl Like You which inspire children
has worked as the lead animal wrangler for
lead back to each other.
to embrace all the things that make them
Animal Planet’s Puppy Bowl, appeared on
Author Mona Shroff grew up in Bucks
unique. He has been a teacher and coach
the Animal Planet show Faithful Friends,
County, and is a graduate of Neshaminy
for more than 25 years. Barbara Dan loves
and has written two dog training books
High School. She is an optometrist turned
to fill her classroom with picture books. She
and several fictional books. Victoria shares
writer who is currently working on her third
lives in Doylestown, PA.
her Bucks County home with her dogs
novel, with a fourth following right behind
Millie and Olive, and her incredibly tolerant
it! She and her husband reside in Maryland
husband, Tom.
with their rescue dog, Nala. CityLifestyle.com/Newtown
35
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37
ROAD TRIP
Explore National Parks Across the U.S. 3 TOP NATIONAL PARKS TO VISIT NOW
THE
UNITED
STATES’
NATIONAL
PARKS,
WHICH
ARE KNOWN FOR THEIR NATURAL WONDERS AND UNMATCHED
BEAUTY,
ENCOMPASS
LANDS
THAT
HELPED SHAPE THE HISTORY OF THIS COUNTRY AND HOLD CULTURAL VALUE AND SIGNIFICANCE. The national parks invite us to stretch our imaginations—and our legs—and explore the great outdoors. This list of national parks just scratches the surface of the natural wonders to wonderlands to discover, but it includes three of the most stunning national parks in the United States.
ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK
1.
Rocky Mountain National Park includes majestic mountains, abundant wildlife, incredible hiking trails and so much more. Popular activities include fishing, hiking, riding horses and bikes and enjoying the spectacular views. Wintertime
brings
cross-country
skiing,
snowshoeing and sledding.
YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK Located in California’s Sierra Nevada Mountains,
2.
Yosemite National Park boasts giant sequoia trees, breathtaking waterfalls, vast meadows and more. The park is home to unique rock formations like El Capitan, Half Dome and Glacier Point. Gaze in awe at Yosemite’s thousands of waterfalls.
3. YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK Yellowstone’s 2.2 million acres include colorful hot springs, awe-inspiring waterfalls, fascinating mudpots, explosive geysers, diverse wildlife and more. It is home to more hot springs and geysers than anywhere else on Earth. The oldest and largest herd of bison in the country lives here.
Hopefully, this list has inspired you to start planning your next adventure. Whether the mountains are calling, your inner daredevil needs to be satiated or a scenic road trip is in order, America’s national parks are begging to be explored! 38
Newtown Lifestyle | July 2021
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