Philadelphia’s food scene is legendary, and it goes far beyond cheesesteaks. The Reading Terminal Market serves up global flavors under one historic roof, while fine dining establishments led by James Beard Award–winning chefs push the city onto the national culinary stage. From Italian hoagies and Amish pretzels to vegan cafés and craft cocktail lounges, food in Philly is not just a meal it’s an experience.
The signs of stress in pets can sometimes be mistaken for bad behavior. A house-trained dog that suddenly has accidents indoors or a cat that scratches a new sofa isn’t acting out they’re expressing anxiety in the only way they know how Changes in appetite, restless pacing, vocalizing more than usual, or destructive habits are all signals that your pet is struggling to adjust
Helping animals through this transition takes patience and consistency. Maintaining familiar routines, such as feeding, walking, or playtime, provides reassurance that not everything has changed. Setting up a quiet room with a pet’s bed, toys, and food can also act as a safe zone while the rest of the household is in motion. Once in the new house, it’s best to let pets explore gradually, one room at a time, rather than overwhelming them with the entire space all at once. Bringing along their favorite blanket, bowl, or toy something that smells like “home” offers comfort in a way new furniture never could
The truth is, moving is stressful for everyone, but it’s also a powerful reminder that home isn’t defined by walls or square footage. For our pets, home is wherever their family is. Once they realize their favorite people made the move too, the anxiety begins to fade. Before long, the dog will discover a new sunny spot to nap, the cat will claim a windowsill as their kingdom, and the house will no longer feel strange it will feel like home.
At City to Coast, we believe moving stories aren’t just about properties and price tags They’re about family And that always includes the four-legged ones who curl up at our feet and remind us what home really means
"People are addicted to coffee…that’s a good business model."
– Heather Thompson
Grounded in Family, Powered by Coffee
By City to Coast Mag
If you’ve strolled through Wilmington’s waterfront market and caught the irresistible aroma of fresh espresso, chances are it led you straight to Bernie’s Espresso Inside, you’ll find owner Heather Thompson running the show with a smile, a dash of sass, and enough caffeine to fuel the whole block. Her right-hand man? Brother Sean, who’s part barista, part comic relief, and entirely invested in the daily grind—literally.
Named after Heather’s grandfather (and, fun fact, her black cat), Bernie’s isn’t your cookie-cutter coffee stop It’s part local hangout, part West Coast coffee haven, and part treasure hunt for quirky merch and pastries that will ruin you for chain bakeries forever We sat down with Heather over, of course, a perfect latte to talk beans, big dreams, and one epic road trip
City to Coast: First things first, who is Bernie?
Heather: Bernie was my grandfather my Papa. I loved the name so much I even gave it to my black cat. You’ll see him in our logo. So, Bernie’s is a little bit family history, a little bit cat tribute, and a lot of coffee
C2C: You’ve got some serious animal-lover energy going on
Heather: Oh yeah At the moment, I’ve got a threelegged cat and a 100-pound dog. Life’s never boring.
C2C: So, how long has Bernie’s been serving up the good stuff?
Heather: In June, we’ll hit our one-year anniversary.
C2C: What made you take the leap into coffee?
Heather: I love people I love serving coffee And let’s be honest people are addicted to coffee That’s a good business model
Heather Thompson, Owner
C2C: Your beans have a West Coast connection, right?
Heather: Yes! When I lived in L.A., my friend Doug he’s been in the coffee biz forever was always my “future roaster” in our little inside joke. Ten years later, I called him for advice, and it turned out he was ready to distribute his beans. He’s now my co-owner and head roaster at Nice Coffee Roasters. We get deliveries once a week. The espresso blend comes from El Salvador, plus I keep things interesting with a dark roast, decaf, and rotating single origins
C2C: Beyond coffee, what else is on the menu?
Heather: Local pastries from Hockessin’s Hillside Bakery croissants, scones, muffins I also carry candles, and soon we’ll have merch like t-shirts and hats My brother-in-law designed the logo and is creating these small portraits of Bernie the cat in all kinds of funny scenarios Those will be for sale too
C2C: What’s next for Bernie’s?
Heather: I’d love to take over the space next door add breakfast sandwiches, burritos, hash browns. Maybe even a mobile coffee cart for the area.
C2C: Let’s talk about your Guinness World Record.
Heather: I held the record for the longest road trip in one country 37,000 miles in four months in a 2001 Subaru Outback. We hit 22 national parks. No Alaska or Hawaii allowed, so we zig-zagged the mainland like crazy.
C2C: Your beans have a West Coast connection, right?
Heather: Yes! When I lived in L A , my friend Doug he’s been in the coffee biz forever was always my “future roaster” in our little inside joke Ten years later, I called him for advice, and it turned out he was ready to distribute his beans He’s now my co-owner and head roaster at Nice Coffee Roasters. We get deliveries once a week. The espresso blend comes from El Salvador, plus I keep things interesting with a dark roast, decaf, and rotating single origins.
C2C: Beyond coffee, what else is on the menu?
Heather: Local pastries from Hockessin’s Hillside Bakery croissants, scones, muffins. I also carry candles, and soon we’ll have merch like t-shirts and hats. My brother-in-law designed the logo and is creating these small portraits of Bernie the cat in all kinds of funny scenarios. Those will be for sale too.
"Bernie’s is a little family history, a little cat tribute, and a lot of coffee."
– Heather Thompson
C2C: What’s next for Bernie’s?
Heather: I’d love to take over the space next door add breakfast sandwiches, burritos, hash browns Maybe even a mobile coffee cart for the area
C2C: Let’s talk about your Guinness World Record
Heather: I held the record for the longest road trip in one country 37,000 miles in four months in a 2001 Subaru Outback. We hit 22 national parks. No Alaska or Hawaii allowed, so we zigzagged the mainland like crazy.
C2C: What advice would you give to someone dreaming of opening their own place?
Heather: Be ready to work really, really hard. Hire good people. If it’s a customer service business, you need to genuinely like people. And have a product worth coming back for. I’ve had regulars since day one
C2C: And Sean? What’s your role in the Bernie’s universe?
Sean: [Laughs] Official coffee slinger, clean-up crew, and sometimes therapist for customers who need to vent It’s a lot of fun working with Heather, but it’s also non-stop. You learn to move fast.
From West Coast beans to Wilmington charm, Bernie’s Espresso isn’t just a place to grab a cup it’s a place to linger, chat, and feel at home. Whether you’re stopping in for your morning fix or discovering it for the first time, Heather and Sean have you covered one perfect pour at a time!
Elemental Ambition: The Spirit of What ' s Next
Interview by City to Coast Magazine
Photos courtesy of New E ra Spirits
When we sat down with Milo Cox, brand ambassador of Element Whiskey, it was clear from the first sip of conversation that this wasn’t just about spirits it was about vision, culture, and carving a new lane in the world of Irish whiskey.
C2C: The name “Element” feels modern and different from the usual family-name Irish whiskey brands. Where did it come from?
Milo: We wanted something contemporary and innovative Most Irish whiskeys are tied to family names, heritage, and tradition which is beautiful, but not what we were going for. For us, “Element” is about being in your element. When you’re sipping whiskey with friends, you’re in that happy place. It’s also about how whiskey is created: countless small elements coming together to create something greater than the sum of its parts That’s exactly what Element is moments, details, and connections coming together
“Heritage is beautiful, but we’re about modern craft— whiskey for today’s world.”
C2C: You’re young, building this in an old industry. What advice would you give other young entrepreneurs?
Milo: Just start. Don’t hide behind books or endless planning. Put your idea out there. You’ll learn so much faster by actually being in the industry, talking to people, testing ideas. Even if you bend the truth a little to see if there’s interest do it Take risks, because time moves on either way In Ireland, going against the grain isn’t always easy But in places like Philadelphia, I’ve been blown away by how welcoming people are They see a young guy trying, and they want to help.
C2C: What sets Element apart from giants like Jameson?
Milo: We’re craft Jameson and Tullamore do an amazing job paving the way and educating new markets But we’re about complexity and boutique style. For example, our blend combines single malt and single grain Irish whiskeys, matured in bourbon, Oloroso sherry, and American oak casks. The result? Smooth, approachable, with layers of flavor. And then we also do single malts matured in Madeira, Moscatel, and bourbon casks more fruit-forward and bold.
C2C: Tell us about your brother and how this all started.
Milo: Whiskey has always been in the background of our family life. Growing up, I ran a small cordial business, so food and beverage was always around us My brother Fionn studied foodmaking entrepreneurship in college, so this path really fit He entered the Jameson graduate program, and through that built connections in the whiskey world. Fionn (co-founder) is the “brains” of the business side, while one of our partners is more of the whiskey craftsman.
C2C: Where can people find Element today?
Milo: We’re in 14 international markets already. Across mainland Europe Switzerland, Belgium, France and on the U S East Coast in Massachusetts and Philadelphia We’re also in Nigeria and Kenya And we’re focusing heavily on emerging markets like India, Vietnam, and China, because by 2050, Africa alone will hold a third of the world’s working population That’s massive growth potential. And, we are now the 4 largest Irish whiskey in Nigeria! th
C2C: What’s next for Element?
Milo: Growth and permanence In the next couple of years, we want to secure our own distillery and expand deeper into the U.S. Our goal is permanent listings in state stores like Pennsylvania, and then growth in New York and Boston We’re small, but scrappy and that’s our strength .
C2C: One last fun one what’s something people wouldn’t know about you and your brother?
Milo: (laughs) Well, we’re both massive sports guys grew up playing soccer, Gaelic football, and hurling. That’s one reason I love Philly; the sports culture here feels like home. And here’s a fun fact: Fionn’s middle name is Bungani, which is Zulu When he’s in Africa, people sometimes just call him Bungani.
“Element is about being in your element—those happy places when you’re sipping whiskey with friends.”
When life gives you lemons… make pasta salad. This zesty, colorful dish is the ultimate “bring-to-the-party” hero — light enough for the beach, bold enough for the backyard, and just fancy enough to impress that neighbor who “doesn’t usually eat carbs.” Bursting with fresh veggies, bright herbs, and a tangy lemon-balsamic dressing, it’s summer in a bowl — and proof that the best things in life are served chilled.
Citrus & Chill: A Fresh Take on Pasta Salad
12 oz rotini or farfalle pasta (cooked al dente, rinsed, and cooled)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
1 yellow bell pepper, diced
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
½ cup kalamata olives, sliced
1 cup broccoli florets, lightly steamed and cooled
½ cup fresh parsley, chopped
¼ cup fresh basil, roughly torn
½ cup feta cheese (optional but delicious)
For the Dressing
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
1 tsp honey or agave (to balance acidity)
1 clove garlic, minced
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
delicious
Instructions
Cook the pasta: Boil pasta to al dente, drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.
Prep the veggies: Chop and prepare all vegetables while pasta cools.
Mix the dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, lemon zest, honey, garlic, salt, and pepper
Combine: In a large mixing bowl, toss pasta with the veggies, fresh herbs, and olives Pour over the dressing and mix well
Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes for the flavors to meld
Serve: Top with crumbled feta and a drizzle of extra balsamic before serving for that perfect tangy kick.
compassion in action
When you step into the world of Ivy Creek Gracious Retirement Living in Glen Mills, Pennsylvania, you're welcomed into more thanjustacommunity you’reembracedbya place where hospitality meets heartfelt connection. With live-in managers who pour coffee at meals, invite conversation, and truly become part of the daily rhythm, Ivy Creek’s residents enjoy a lifestyle that balances comfort,independence,andgenuinecare.
We sat down with Diana Pierce, the warmhearted Sales Coordinator at Ivy Creek, whose passion brings that sense of genuine home to life
“I honestly feel that my residents are my family.”
by City to Coast photos: Ivy Creek
C2C: What is one piece of advice you’d share with families who are just starting the journey of exploring care options for a loved one?
Diana: Before involving your loved one, I suggest visiting potential communities on your own first. This allows you to objectively assess the environment, ask sensitive questions, and gather all the information you need. You know your loved one better than anyone you’ll know what they’ll be comfortable with. Once you’ve narrowed it down, schedule a visit and share a meal with your loved one at your top two choices
C2C: What inspired youtoget involved in senior living, and what continues to drive yourpassionfortheworkyoudo?
Diana: I needed to do something where I felt I was making a difference. Assisting individuals and their families in improving theirqualityoflifegivesmearealsenseof fulfillment It’s about fostering social interaction and helping prevent the decline that can come from isolation I honestly feel that my residents are my family!
HOME
C2C: What makes Ivy Creek a uniquely special place for residents and theirfamilies?
Diana: Ivy Creek operates with a flexible, resident-first approach. Financial statements aren’t required for our monthly rentals, which keeps things simple and accessible We provide on-site live-in managers, three freshly prepared meals each day, an emergency medical device with GPS technology and 24/7 live response, weekly housekeeping, utilities, transportation, and a full calendar of activities Plus, with on-site home care, physical therapy, and occupational therapy, residents can truly age in place Ivy Creek really is a supportive community where residents feel caredforandconnected
Takeaway:
From chef-prepared meals and live-in managers to enriching amenities like libraries, theaters, and elegant common spaces, Ivy Creek offers a lifestyle that clearly feels more like home than just housing. And with Diana Pierce guiding families through the process, it’s no surprise that comfort, confidence, and heartfelt connection are at the heart of every visit.
Buying a home isn’t just about square footage and closet space—it’s about finding where your story fits. And in Delaware, where you can brunch in Wilmington and still make it to the beach before your coffee cools, the search is half the fun. Let’s break it down, pro-style, with just enough wit to keep things moving.
Know Thy Neighborhoods
Delaware may be small, but don’t let the size fool you. Each pocket has its own personality.
Wilmington: City energy, commuter-friendly, and yes plenty of coffee shops for those who “work from home.”
Newark: A college-town heartbeat with just enough edge to keep it lively.
The Beaches: Where time slows down, flip-flops are currency, and sunsets practically come with the deed
Pro tip: Pick your vibe before you pick your paint colors
Numbers Don’t Lie (But They Do Change Fast)
The Delaware market moves quickly Homes here can vanish faster than a boardwalk French fry in seagull territory. Translation? Get your financing in order before you even think about touring. A pre-approval letter is your golden ticket.
The Delaware Advantage
Here’s the part no one complains about: no sales tax and some of the lowest property taxes around. Buy a home here and you’re not just getting four walls you’re keeping more dollars in your wallet for furniture, vacations, or, let’s be real, your first “welcome home” party.
Why You Need a Realtor (Not Just Zillow)
Sure, you can scroll listings at 2 a m in your pajamas, but a seasoned realtor knows the backstory:
“Numbers Don’t Lie (But They Do Change Fast)”
Why You Need a Realtor When Buying a Home
straight forward, seriously, no kidding, facts
#nofluff
Market Expertise
Realtors know the neighborhoods, pricing trends, and hidden gems that don’t always appear online They’ll tell you when a home is worth it and when to walk away
Access & Advantage
Not every property is listed on Zillow. Realtors have access to the MLS and “coming soon” listings, giving you first pick in a competitive market.
Negotiation Power
From offers to repairs, a realtor fights for your best interests and often saves you more than you could on your own
Paperwork & Protection
Contracts, disclosures, and inspections can be overwhelming Realtors guide you through every step, making sure nothing gets missed
The Bottom Line
Sure, you can buy a house without a realtor. But why risk it? Having a professional in your corner means less stress, more protection, and peace of mind as you unlock the door to your new home
This summer, the stars urge patience, clarity, and heart-led communication. As Mercury twists its way through miscommunications and emotional depth, the zodiac signs are each called to reflect, revise, and re-center. Whether you’re navigating love, finances, or friendships, remember: sometimes, the universe whispers — and sometimes, it makes you wait. Here's what this summer holds for you.
♈ ARIES (March 21 – April 20)
Feeling like your name got left off the guest list? Don't worry, Aries some things just get lost in the mail or caught in the spam folder.
♉ TAURUS (April 21 – May 21)
Family conversations could veer into surprising territory. Let others take their time to say what they mean and do the same.
♊ GEMINI (May 22 – June 21)
Even your silver tongue may stumble now, Gemini You could blurt out something that goes wrong. The remedy? Thoughtfulness. Shape your words with care. .
♋ CANCER (June 22 – July 23)
Before diving into big financial plans, give yourself the gift of time Not everything may be as it seems. Some key details may be missing, so proceed with caution.
♌ LEO (July 24 – August 23)
First impressions pack a punch this summer. Whether you’re making bold moves or playing it cool, Leo, the way you present yourself can shift your path in unexpected and rewarding ways.
♍ VIRGO (August 24 – September 23)
Your inner compass may feel a bit off-kilter, Virgo. The world around you seems less predictable, and your instincts may lead you down strange new roads. That’s okay.
♎ LIBRA (September 24 – October 23)
Friendships might hit a patch of miscommunication
Even your legendary balance and charm won’t prevent a few crossed wires
♏ SCORPIO (October 24 – November 22)
When it comes to your career, actions speak louder than words. Choose thoughtful communication, especially with higher-ups, Scorpio.
♐ SAGITTARIUS (November 23 – December 22)
This isn’t the summer for smooth sailing at least when it comes to travel. Expect a few hiccups, from lost reservations to forgotten chargers.
♑ CAPRICORN (December 23 – January 20)
Feelings run deep, Capricorn, and you may be tempted to spill your heart. Just make sure the timing and setting are right. Let your actions show how much you care.
♒ AQUARIUS (January 21 – February 19)
Relationship talks may take a surprising turn. Before diving into a serious conversation, give it some space. Let the dust settle.
♓ PISCES (February 20 – March 20)
Work projects may feel murky, Pisces. Directions may be vague, and detours are likely. Stay grounded and roll with the changes. Your creativity and adaptability are your secret weapons.
By Madam Lichtenstein Astrologer & Author | The Cosmic World
Delaware Beaches: Sun, Surf & Southern Charm
Few places along the East Coast pack as much variety into their shoreline as Delaware. From lively boardwalks to quiet, tucked-away stretches of sand, the First State’s beaches are destinations in their own right drawing travelers from D.C., Maryland, Pennsylvania, and beyond. Here’s a tour of the coast’s mustvisit stops and what makes each one unforgettable.
Rehoboth Beach – “The Nation’s Summer Capital”
Rehoboth Beach is Delaware’s quintessential seaside town— bustling, colorful, and always full of life. Its iconic one-mile boardwalk sets the stage with old-school arcades, saltwater taffy stands, and familyowned restaurants that feel like they’ve been around forever. This is the place where nostalgia meets modern vibrancy
Nicknamed “The Nation’s Summer Capital,” Rehoboth has long been the warmweather retreat for D.C residents looking for an easy coastal escape. The crowds are diverse—families, couples, and LGBTQ+ visitors all find a welcoming community vibe here Beyond the surf and sand, visitors can enjoy free summer concerts at the Rehoboth Beach Bandstand, the acclaimed Rehoboth Beach Independent Film Festival, and craft brews from local favorite Dogfish Head Brewery.
Dewey Beach – Party Vibes Meet Sandy Escapes
Just a stone’s throw from Rehoboth lies Dewey Beach—a stretch of sand that lives and breathes energy. Despite its compact size (just one mile long and two blocks wide), Dewey can host tens of thousands on a summer weekend. Famous for its nightlife, live music venues, and buzzing beach bars, Dewey is where younger crowds come to play. Annual traditions like the skimboarding championships and Greyhounds Reach the Beach add unique flair to the summer calendar. Yet it’s not all parties and late nights—the wide beach is familyfriendly, offering plenty of space to stretch out, swim, and soak up the sun.
BEHIND THE LENS
DAVID HEITUR
“I’VE BEEN INTO DRAWING AND PAINTING SINCE I WAS A CHILD, SO I FEEL A DRAW TO COLOR COMBOS AND SHAPES WHEN I FRAME IMAGES.”
On Inspiration and Vision
C2C: Your work blends storytelling and style beautifully what sparks your creative vision before you even pick up the camera?
David: Thank you. My inspiration can come from many different areas. Since childhood, I’ve been drawn to drawing and painting, so I naturally see color combinations and shapes when framing images. Most of my storytelling actually comes after the framing. My communication with directing isn’t always direct, but that allows me to guide my subjects toward creating the image I’m seeking.
“WITH DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY, I CAN REVIEW INSTANTLY— AND KEEP GOING UNTIL I CAPTURE THE BEST IMAGE.”
Capturing Personality and Emotion
C2C: How do you make sure your photos really reflect the personality and emotions of the people you’re working with?
David: The beauty of digital photography is the instant review I can keep exploring angles and expressions until I find the image that truly resonates. This process helps me capture personality and emotion more authentically.
Inspired by a Region Between City & Shore
C2C: City to Coast celebrates life between Wilmington and the shore What makes this region inspiring to you as an artist?
David: I love that I can go from the city to the beach in under two hours and everything in between. The bridges, farmland, and diverse landscapes spoil me with variety. It’s not only visually inspiring, but it also brings me a wide range of clients, each with their own story to tell.
“I’M SPOILED HERE CITY, SHORE, BRIDGES, FARMLAND—SO MUCH VISUAL VARIETY IN ONE REGION.”
St. Jude patient Misheel, brain cancer pictured with her family
Every child deserves to live their best life and celebrate every moment.
Misheel walkeddown the stairsof St Jude Children’s Research Hospital® sportinga bright smile as she carrieda bag bursting with colorful balloon figures that she created to share with other patients, doctors and nurses. Despite her battle with brain cancer, Misheel, 11, has refused to let her illness keep her from spreading joy to others Misheel was diagnosed in July 2023 after experiencing several months of insatiable thirst. “She wasn’t sleeping well during the night; she was so tired during the day,” her mother, Undrakh, recalled. A doctor’s visit and tests revealed tumors in her brain. Misheel was referred to St. Jude, where she has received treatment including chemotherapy and radiation therapy “St Jude means a lot to us, it has become a loving family,” said Undrakh Since she became a patient at St Jude, Misheel not only learned to master balloon twisting, but is now learning to be a ventriloquist She aspires to be a doctor or a nurse, just like those at St Jude St Jude provides customized care for some of the world’s sickest children regardless of their race, ethnicity, beliefs or ability to pay We won’t stop until no child dies from cancer
