Gene Ween sings "White Christmas" at New Hope's God Save the Qweens

Who is Nick Gialias and why is he running for New Hope Borough Council?

Nick Gialias (Photo: Charlie Sahner)

By Charlie Sahner

Nick Gialias is a candidate for New Borough Council in the election scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 8. This year's polling site has been moved from the Eagle Fire Company building to the New Hope Borough Community Room adjacent to Borough Hall. Gialas will be vying with three other contenders for three open seats on New Hope's top governing body.

A resident of Riverwoods with a wife and young daughter, Gialias, 33, sees himself as a family man and businessman, but his background in biomedical engineering seems to underly the precision of his speech and the directness of his opinions. He owns the Logan Inn, a family business where his father is the chef and other relatives are frequently helping out with the perpetual urgencies that accompany any sprawling inn-restaurant-bar. Gialias is running on the Republican ticket in a town where party affiliations are of dubious concern. He is also known as a primary organizer of the New Hope/Lambertville Friday Night Fireworks.

So, why is Gialias trying to become a member of Borough Council?

"I'm really concerned about the prosperity of New Hope," he said. "I want to help bring it back to the flourishing community we have come to love. We need to bring back some of the institutions that defined New Hope -- the mule barges, Odette's, and the Playhouse, Zadar space and Delaware waterfront in general. There's very little access for residents and guests to view and enjoy the river," added Gialias.

The troubled Bucks County Playhouse is indeed on many residents' minds these days, and the symbolism of its financial plight is not lost on Gialas. "The Playhouse is more than a business issue.They don't appreciate how much the Playhouse means to the residents of New Hope. The bank doesn't care. For the bank, it's just a dollar asset. For us, it's more than that; it's part of our history, culture and identity here."

Gialias' solution to the Bucks County Playhouse fiasco: "We need to go to [Reps.] Bernie O'Neill, Chuck McIlhinney and Mike Fitzpatrick and get them into the process, and see what kind of support we could receive at the county or state level, be it legislative, financial, or public."

Gialas believes the beleaguered Bucks County Playhouse also reflects negatively on New Hope's reputation as a haven for the arts. "We need to encourage the arts, encourage painters and performers on the streets, not require permits. If we're going to say we're an arts community, we've got to bring the Playhouse back -- we've got to put our money where our mouth is."

Likewise, Gialias views reviving the currently dry section of the Delaware Canal running through New Hope as vitally important to the borough's prosperity. "Reviving the canal is about wildlife, tourism, beauty and history. I'd rather people try and fail -- at least you can bring attention to the problem, and you might get lucky and raise enough money to fix it up. You also show people your mind is in the right place," he said.

In terms of the high rate of store closings in New Hope, due in part to the uncertain national economy, Gialias said, "The way you get good shops here is by creating a good environment for them to prosper. Right now, restaurants are providing an important service to the community, which also helps all the shops in the vicinity.

"The businesses are really providing a tax base that keeps taxes lower. The restaurants are paying school tax, but not sending kids to school. People move here for the school system that is paid, in part, by restaurants. Parking meters and fines more than pay for the police. I can't imagine a future New Hope that's prosperous without a flourishing business community. Tourism supports the borough because it keeps taxes lower, supports the schools, and supports the police force."

Added Gialias, "My perspective comes from being a resident here, having a family here, and having a family business here. I want New Hope to do well, and I need New Hope to do well."

But, cautions Gialias, "We should be careful not to lose our sense of small-town community. We need to be treating everyone with dignity, and respect what they bring to the town. And we need to be supporting people who are looking to renovate, restore, and maintain old properties.

"People that scrape and paint their houses every year should be praised, and not criticized if it's not the exact right color. Sometimes we get off track with that," continued Gialias.

And what difference can one Borough Council member make?

Says Gialias, "I will try to better inform the public about the major issues in town and get them involved in the process. We all want New Hope to continue being a great, lively, vibrant place where we can bring our family, friends, and relatives."

Posh body jewelry shop Alluring Moon opens in New Hope

AlluringMoon body jewelry in New Hope, PA (Photo: Charlie Sahner)

By Charlie Sahner

Alluring Moon jewelry store and studio is open for business, designing, handcrafting, and selling unique jewelry, including gold and diamond nose rings, belly rings and earrings.

Founded in 2002 by partners and co-owners Carolyn and Ellie Stutzman, Alluring Moon began as an online business. After exploring much of the country, they "fell in love with New Hope's artistic vibe, friendly people, and the serene beauty of the Delaware River and surrounding countryside."

Carolyn and Ellie decided to moved from Seattle to New Hope and open a jewelry shop. Ellie is Alluring Moon's principle designer, while goldsmiths Carolyn and Kara bring Ellie's designs to life in their workshop to the rear of of the store.

The main focus at Alluring Moon clearly is the fun, high-end selection of body jewelry, but the premium ancient coin pendants and precious gemstone rings are eye-catching and top-quality, as well. Diamonds and gems seem vibrant in creative settings, and all jewelry is handcrafted with nickel-free solid gold or pure platinum, then hand polished for high luster.

Despite the posh feel, folks there seem welcoming and down-to-earth. Alluring Moon is located at 9 W. Bridge St. 

Lambertville residents wonder if flood surge during hurricane was man-made disaster

By Charlie Sahner

Rumors were swirling in Lambertville today like the muddy waters of the Delaware River. The question on everyone's mind: was a "wall of water" which struck several streets there during the height of Hurricane Irene caused or exacerbated by a release of water at a reservoir overlooking the city?

While Lambertville received an unprecedented amount of rainfall during Hurricane Irene, with flash flooding heavy there, multiple accounts from residents living on Ferry, Swan, South Union and North Franklin streets point to an as of yet unexplained incident that occurred early Sunday morning.

Said one Swan Street resident, "It was 12:40 a.m. and I heard my sump pump turn on. I went down to the basement, and a window blew out and water rushed in. I ran for my car, but it was already half under water. Ten minutes later the water began receding."

A long-time resident of North Franklin Street who asked not to be identified said the incident on her block started after midnight and lasted about half an hour. "I've never seen this block flood in 50 years," she recalled. North Franklin Street is located at Lambertville's eastern section, far from the Delaware River, but below the dam operated by United Water.

In a press release issued Aug. 30, United Water said, "On already saturated ground, Lambertville received an unprecedented seven and one-half inches (7 ½”) of rain in 18 hours on Saturday and Sunday. During the storm event, the company issued a precautionary dam warning. This triggers notifications to the local offices of emergency management so they can implement their emergency response plans."

The company release went on to say, "The NJDEP [New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection] authorized voluntary water discharge to protect the dams. This included releasing water prior to rain events which limited the impact on down-stream lower Lambertville during the storm. The company also worked closely with the local emergency management team staying in constant contact throughout the storm event."

A spokesperson for United Water New Jersey was unable to be reached.

Asked whether the "mystery surge" of water that terrorized residents and businesses was caused solely by flash flooding associated with Hurricane Irene, Lambertville Mayor David DelVecchio said, "We don't have all the facts yet. I've asked our engineer to request more details in writing from United Water."

Meanwhile, residents all over Lambertville were asking the same questions Thursday: "Exactly what time did the 'voluntary water discharge' take place?" "Why weren't residents warned in advance?"

Said one former fire official who asked to remain anonymous, "I've heard that maybe the dam operator didn't empty the water before the rainfall, then did it during the Hurricane, and couldn't close the vents."

All unsubstantiated, but in the absence of hard facts, and with many residents and businesses uncovered by insurance and struggling to recover, the details surrounding Lambertville's "mystery surge" remain as muddy and clouded as the nearby Delaware River.

Blue Penguin frozen yogurt shop latest entrant into New Hope's ice cream wars

Frozen yogurt dispensers at Blue Penguin in New Hope (Photo: Charlie Sahner)

By Charlie Sahner

New Hope is famous for many things, but no one can deny that ice cream is king and competition is fierce. Gerenser's deserves much of the credit, with its pioneering gourmet "exotic" flavors, and survives as a popular establishment to this day. Clusters Bucks County Caramel Corn on West Bridge Street offers gelato, Last Temptation offers the creamy, super-premium Thomas Sweet, and even Little China restaurant has a small freezer with Good Humor bars of dubious age.

Enter Blue Penguin at 15 E. Bridge St., a location that has been home to more than one failed ice cream enterprise. Yes, they're cleaning up during the borough's Friday Night Fireworks shows, but can they survive having opened late in the busy season and with cooler weather just around the corner?

Manager Sang H. Lee thinks so. "We opened later to get it right," he said.

And Blue Penguin's business plan factors in an eight-month selling season at best. So, what's their model for success? Lee believes that having "complete control over the product" will insure quality, while the self-serve model offers simplicity.

He seems spot on with regard to the latter. The customer experience is simple and fun, judging from the random reactions of those trying the product. One simply grabs a cup, pours in frozen yogurt from a wall mounted dispenser, then adds toppings. The finished yogurt snack is then weighed at the checkout counter. Prices typically range in the $3-$4 area, and can easily top $6 if one goes crazy with some of the 36 toppings. And what toppings they are: from pitted cherries, berries, melon and other fruit to chocolate chunks, Rainbow Rice Krispies, nuts, and sprinkles.

The 12 basic yogurt flavors themselves were varied and luscious. One young woman was gushing over her Georgia Peach, and a six-year-old boy went bonkers over Red Velvet Cake, although Lee says Cookies n' Cream has proven the most popular flavor among customers thus far.

So, can Blue Penguin be a major player in the battle to win over New Hope's ice cream lovers?

"This is yogurt, not ice cream," said one outspoken customer from Toms River. "It has healthy bacteria, less fat and tastes great. I'll be back."

Blue Penguin is located at 15 E. Bridge St. near the New Hope-Lambertville free bridge; (215) 693-1748.

My My boutique hits New Hope

My My, what a funky boutique in New Hope (photo: Charlie Sahner)

By Charlie Sahner

Maureen Ferguson has moved her retail showcase of independent artists, crafters, and vintage clothing from Doylestown to New Hope, and West Ferry Street may never be the same.

In fact, the retail-challenged street once known as "Antiques Row" has shown signs of life lately, not only with the opening of My My, but also the advent of Little Barn Antiques next door and the expansion of Sally Goodman Antiques further up the hill.

Ferguson seems charming, intelligent and understated, as are her offerings. She believes that her tagline speaks for itself: "handmade. vintage. awesome."

Prices start at around $6 for a bar of handmade soap. Of note were the vintage fabrics, radio collection, and newsprint flower sculptures. The space is airy and inviting.

My My is located at 15 W. Ferry St.; 215-693-1318.

Towpath House in New Hope may go condo

Five-building complex as seen from South Main Street, New Hope (Photo: Charlie Sahner)

By Charlie Sahner

The restaurant portion of the five-building complex bordered by the Ingham Creek, Delaware Canal and West Mechanic Street is now called 'Tuscany', and before that it was 'Esca', but most still remember it as the 'Towpath House'. It sat directly across the canal from Johnny Francis' Canal House, and at one time both were bustling nightly with large, loyal crowds.

The Canal House and adjacent businesses are long gone, and in their place stands builder George Michael's largely unfinished and unoccupied townhouse complex overlooking the dry, crumbling Delaware Canal.

And now Towpath landowner Paul Licitra has indicated to Borough Hall that he will be submitting a sketch plan for Borough Council to review at their August meeting -- a plan widely expected to take the form of a residential development.

Licitra confirmed that conversion of the property from mixed use to residential is being contemplated.

"I can't provide much detail at this early stage, but I can say that we intend to improve the property and make it an asset to the neighborhood," he said.

New Hope's Annapurna fills local Indian restaurant void

Annapurna Indian restaurant in New Hope (Photo: Charlie Sahner)

By Charlie Sahner

Annapurna sits at the back of the Four Seasons Mall in New Hope, a location that once made up part of the sizable and popular Toys for Men shop. There are now windows in the rear offering Delaware River views courtesy of a prior restaurant's effort, but unlike that establishment, this one has a crack at succeeding.

A recent visit to Annapurna revealed clean, tasteful decor, a classic selection of Indian cuisine, and friendly, efficient service. The details: to start, one won't find unusual, fiery regional dishes. And that may be a good thing. It seems that while some local palettes might be accustomed to Thai cooking, far fewer are familar with the culinary joys of the subcontinent.

Annapurna manages to cover all the bases in a pleasing, authentic way. Appetizers include the standard pakoras and samosas tastefully rendered, and the bread selection focused on interesting varieties of naan. Prices were moderate, with many entrees in the $12-15 range, including tandoori, curry, masala, korma and biryani dishes. The vegetarian selection was sizable and varied.

Standouts included the chicken tikka masala (cooked in a mild, but well-seasoned tomato and cream sauce), and the shrimp vindaloo, which had an abundanance of medium shrimp in a wonderfully seasoned curry sauce that made up in flavor what it lacked in heat. In fact, should one be an experienced fan of Indian cuisine, informing the waiter that one's dish can be prepared on the hot side would not be out of order.

The service was excellent; our waiter offered extra helpings of basmati rice and chutneys. Fresh coriander was in the air, and the entrees weren't swimming in ghee. The river view added to the overall experience. We'll be back.

A great introduction to Indian food for everyone that can also be enjoyed by experienced afficiandados. BYOB and take-out avaialble.

Annapurna is located at 32 S. Main St.; (215) 862-5080.

New owners to convert large New Hope retail space into Italian restaurant

By Charlie Sahner

A local partnership, 46 North Main Associates, LLC, is taking over the property located at that address in New Hope and seeking permission to convert it into a restaurant featuring homemade pasta, pizza and fine Italian entrees at what owners say will be moderate prices.

At 7,000 square feet, the space formerly occupied by the Trading Post of Bucks County seems ideal to create the type of airy, almost opulent decor for which co-owner Antonio Adragna is known. His Cafe Antonio in Morrisville has a loyal following, traditional Italian menu, and an impressive interior featuring soaring ceilings, chandeliers, and charming murals.

Says Lambertville resident and partner Glenn Kapuscienski, "We want to combine the energy of New Hope with fine Italian dining on the riverfront."

Blueprints for the planned restaurant feature two prominent bar areas, and a rumor has circulated among some concerned homeowners in New Hope's largely quiet north end that a nightclub or bar might be in the works.

But the owners say they're interested in gaining the community's respect and loyalty as a fine dining venue. "New Hope is a wonderful historic town with diversity and a flair for the arts," said Kapuscienski. "We intend to be a friendly neighbor and a complement to the community."

Former Congressman Patrick Murphy joins in celebration of LGBT pride at annual New Hope parade

Former Congressman Patrick Murphy at New Hope, PA Gay Pride Parade

By Charlie Sahner

Cloudy skies Saturday did not dim the enthusiasm at the New Hope Celebrates Pride Parade, this year kicked off with a well-received address by former U.S. Congressman Patrick Murphy.

Dubbed "Freedom to Be", the spirited march was the main event in a week-long celebration of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgendered and allied community. The parade also featured marching bands, spectacular floats, and talented entertainers, along with friends and families of the LGBT community.

Murphy addressed the cheering parade audience and then joined in the march with his family. The former congressman is popular in the LGBT community, having helped pave the way in the U.S. House of Representatives for the successful repeal of the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" law which forced gays and lesbians to remain silent in order to serve in the military.

"Today is a great day to celebrate what makes America the best country in the world," said Murphy, a former captain in the 82nd Airborne Division of the Army who saw combat in Bosnia and Iraq.

New Hope Fantasy Renaissance Faire returns to West Mechanic Street this weekend, rain or shine

By Charlie Sahner

The New Hope Fantasy Renaissance Faire returns to Mechanic Street this weekend, a fitting locale as the event was born on this storied street, and many local denizons need not alter their daily clothing routine to fit right into the medieval themed street happening.

Remember, this is New Hope, so don't expect a genteel affair featuring jousting for maidens and high tea. Think more Pirates of the Caribbean, and you'll be closer to home. Among the entertainers are Unholy Sideshoe (leave the kiddies behind for this one), Lords of Adventure, Pinklefoot Adventure Show, Terra Serpentis, Mery Music Makers and Four Pices of Eight, along with a Shakespeare the Bard Faire, blacksmithing demos, belly dancing and a book signing.

Popular retail venues Medieval Gallery and Against the Grain will be heavily represented at the event, as owner Mike McManus once again provides support and organization for the event.

The fair is the brainchild of the late Dan Henley, a ruddy, gray-bearded giant of a man who was often seen stringing beads in front of Mechanic Street Mugs during the tourist season. "Dan can't be with us this year, but the event's growing popularity is a tribute to his love for Renaissance fairs and street events," said Joel Roberts, owner of Mechanic Street Mugs. "We've got some great stores, restaurants and galleries on the block and they're all ready to roll out the red carpet for our visitors."

The New Hope Fantasy Renaissance Faire starts at 11 a.m. Saturday and Sunday on West Mechanic Street, rain or shine, admission free of charge.

New Hope gets a karate school

 By Charlie Sahner

Well it took long enough, but New Hope finally has a dedicated karate school or, in this case, dojang of its own.

In recent years, karateka had to seek study in nearby towns like Lambertville and Buckingham, but now locals can receive bona fide martial arts instruction at the Logan Square Shopping Center in a large, new facility adjacent to New Hope Beverage (itself a worthwhile destination, with a large selection a value priced imported, domestic and micro-brewed beer).

New Hope Karate offers traditional Tang Soo Do, mixed martial arts, kickboxing, self defense and even classes taught in Spanish. Also of note is the Parent's Night Out program, which allows moms and dads the opportunity to drop off kids aged 5-12 for a few hours of fun, including karate, movies and other supervised activities.

Owner and head instructor Robert Reynolds is no stranger to the area or martial arts community. He ran Reynold's Karate and Fitness for many years in Lambertville, and was known on the tournament circuit as a formidable fighter and champion. Tang Soo Do is a Korean martial art that places a somewhat greater emphasis on hand techniques than the popular Tae Kwon Do, and also derives much of its kinetic power from hip rotation, not unlike its Japanese and Okinawan counterparts. This makes the art an easier fit for those students coming to train with previous experience in styles like Shotokan and Goju-Ryu.

Reynolds also enjoys an excellent reputation as an instructor for children, an important membership and financial component for any successful dojo, but this latest offering is more well-rounded with the addition of specialized adult classes, like those featuring the highly effective Israeli Krav Maga self defense system.

Those interesed in seeing New Hope's new martial arts facilty and viewing some "Little Ninjas" (and not-so-little ninjas) in actiion are welcome to view classes in the morning (around 9:30 a.m. to noon) and evening (4:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m.) Reynolds says the first week is always free if one choses to sign up, and I'll take him at his word -- this guy's the real deal.

Local rock band to perform benefit concert for New Hope-Solebury High School classmate and leukemia research

By Charlie Sahner

New Hope band JC Satellite will perform "A Concert for Carly - Destroy Leuk" on Saturday, March 5 to raise awareness and money for Acute Myeloid Leukemia Research at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.

Three of the four bandmembers are classmates at New Hope-Solebury High School of Carly Stephens, who was diagnosed with leukemia in July, 2010.

Radio deejay "Spike" from Philadelphia's WYSP 94.1 FM will emcee the concert, which also includes an opening performance by singer/songwriter Kelly Carvin and special guest Gabby D'Angelo, another classmate from New Hope-Solebury High School.

Doors to the concert will open at 7 p.m. at the Eagle Fire Hall, 46 N. Sugan Road in New Hope. Tickets are priced at $12 and available at the JC Satellite website.

Those who can't attend may make a donation to AML Research at the Childrens' Hospital giving page. 

St. Martin of Tours Church in New Hope may close school

 By Charlie Sahner

Rumors are flying among parents of children enrolled at St. Martin of Tours School in New Hope that the institution is closing.

St. Martin of Tours School is a private Catholic elementary school serving students of all denominations from pre-kindergarten through 8th grade.

Some speculate that low enrollment may be the cause.  Other parents are wondering how a potential closure might affect enrollment figures at New Hope-Solebury schools, although several parents have said on a popular local Facebook site that they would move their children to other area Catholic schools if necessary.

School teachers and staff there seem well-liked by students and parents, some of whom say they are still fighting to keep the school open.

A church spokesperson contacted Sunday confirmed the move was under consideration, but said, "The final word will come from the Cardinal within two weeks."

New Hope tries to dig out

By Charlie Sahner

New Hope did its collective best Thursday to dig out from the massive double-punch storm that dumped more than a foot of heavy, wet snow on the borough.

Residents complained of shoveling for two hours or more merely to unbury cars and clean front sidewalks of homes, and state workers seemed hard pressed to clear the numerous canal bridges in town.

By mid-afternoon, several sections of sidewalk downtown remained unpassable, although many strollers appeared to have stayed home, as streets were nearly empty of foot traffic.

But locals were sure to continue digging out and sprucing up for the busy Winter Festival weekend just ahead.

New Hope Zoning Hearing Board to weigh proposed new housing development across from high school

By Charlie Sahner

The Zoning Hearing Board of New Hope will consider in the weeks ahead a proposal by Rebecca River Road, LLC  President J. Robert Hillier of Princeton to build a residential development at 181 W. Bridge St., a 4.6 acre parcel directly opposite New Hope-Solebury High School.

The property contains a 9,500 square foot main house known as the 'Cintra Mansion' built in 1816 and historically registered.  That building is flanked by two cottages, and backed by a barn now used as an apartment building.

All in all, there are currently 13 apartments -- three in separate cottages, eight in the existing structure, and two in Cintra that are now vacant.

Said Nina Burns of Weidel New Hope, broker for the deal, "The proposed buyer/owner has presented a fabulous plan to restore and renovate the Cintra property.  He is definitely someone who knows how to restore old buildings yet bring full charisma to the area and best of all to the people of the community."

One area resident familar with zoning issues said he found the proposed project to be innovative, particularly in its use of advanced drainage techniques to ameliorate impermeable surface impacts, and in its preservation of existing trees (said to have already been measured and tagged).

Another resident who asked to remain anonymous asserted that requested variances pertaining to density of units within a given lot size, conversion of housing units deemed to be of historic value, and parking in front of historic structures, might draw scrutiny.

Under the current proposal, the parcel of land will be divided into two parts: the first lot, situated at the north end of the property, measures 1.5 acres and will be contributed by the builder to the New Hope-Solebury Library as a site for an expanded location with parking.

The second lot contains the proposed "Joseph Stanley" development that involves the restoration of the Cintra Mansion, cottages and barn for residential occupancy, essentially adding 16 new units to the existing 13 for a total of 29 residential condominiums.

Second bailout group pledges return of New Hope's Bucks County Playhouse to 'glory days'

Bucks County Playhouse (background) and former Club Zadar in New Hope, PA 

By Charlie Sahner

W. Paul Beckwith of New Hope announced at Tuesday night's Borough Council meeting that he and a private foundation are mounting a rival effort to rescue and restore the foreclosed Bucks County Theater.

Broadway producer Jed Bernstein and a pair of local residents had announced in December their formation of a "Bucks County Playhouse Conservancy," but that group appears somewhat adrift, according to sources close to the organization.

In a statement read in his absence by an associate, Beckwith said that his group's intention was to return the Playhouse to "its glory days and advance the program offerings to include opera, symphony, professional theater, [and] productions by local individuals and groups."

Beckwith said that the group is developing a plan through the established New Hope Arts organization to convert the Playhouse into a "not for profit venue" through "the generosity of a private foundation."

The plan envisions an "outlet" at the Playhouse site that will serve "the good people of New Hope/Lambertville as well as the surrounding area" and become "a pivotal performing arts center for all to enjoy."

Added Beckwith in his statement, "What is important to note is that steps are being taken to develop a program for the Playhouse to ensure that the coming season presents a vital and entertaining program while the plan moves forward."

He urged patience on the part of concerned residents and groups, citing "complexities" arising from the controversial series of events leading to the Playhouse's recent closure.

But, pledged Beckwith, "The project deserves and will receive a solid financial, legal, and executable plan to keep the Playhouse pertinent for generations to come.

"We are dedicated to the Borough of New Hope, we respect the role that the Playhouse plays in the historic, social and economic climate of the area and truly what it means to our fellow residents," he continued.