Downtown York Magazine | Summer 2022

Opinions expressed in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.

A Message from Jonathan Desmarais

opening each and every month. There has also been an influx of local, regional, and even national developers expressing an interest in investing in Downtown York. They want their employees to be able to live, work, and play in a great place, whether that’s in an office, or in a hybrid capacity.

It’s not only new businesses to get excited about, but the reopening of an iconic one. In just a few short months, the beautifully restored Yorktowne Hotel will welcome back visitors from far and wide. Guests of this Hilton Tapestry Collection Hotel will experience

Downtown Inc Team

JONATHAN DESMARAIS

Director of Downtown Inc

HANNAH BEARD

Community Engagement Manager

KATIE MAHONEY

Vice President, Marketing & Communications

BRITNEY BROOKS Director of Community Engagement

places in the country for remote working because of our highly rated quality of place. HGTV also recognized Downtown York as one of America’s 30 most charming small-town downtowns!

If you’ve never visited Historically Edgy Downtown York before, I invite you to dine, drink, and discover all that our community has to offer. If you have visited recently, you know exactly what I’m talking about.

JONATHAN DESMARAIS Director of Downtown Inc

Board Of Directors

Chair: JULIAN TOLBERT

Community Investor

Vice Chair: KATE HYNES

Stock & Leader

Secretary: JOANNE WILMORE

Grace Manor B&B

Treasurer: ANEURY PEREZ Fulton Bank

LAUREN DAYS

Sara Ellen Event Venue

CARLOS DÍAZ

Pineapple Home Gallery

JOHN KLINEDINST

C.S. Davidson, Inc

ERIC MENZER

The York Revolution

DELIA PABON

Parliament Arts Organization

CINDY STEELE

Central Market House

ALLISON WITHEROW

O.N.E. Hospitality Group

Downtown Map

With its imaginative arts community, stunning architecture and restaurants that push the limits of flavor, DOWNTOWN YORK is the creative core of York County. It’s where the word revolutionary isn’t just a nod to the city’s past, but an indicator of its future. We invite you to visit today and soak in rich history, charming boutiques and a growing craft beer scene. You’ll find that Downtown York is HISTORICALLY EDGY, inside and out. This map will get you started!

CODORUSCREEK

Getting Here

DOWNTOWN YORK is easily accessible from all points north, south, east and west. Main arteries you want to look for? George Street and Queen Street from the north and south; Market Street and Philadelphia Street from the east and west.

FROM LANCASTER:

• Take Route 30 West to North George Street

• Turn left onto North George Street

• Follow straight

FROM HARRISBURG AND ALL POINTS NORTH:

• Take I-83 South to Route 30 West, Exit 22 (North George Street)

• Stay in the middle lane and turn right at the light onto North George Street

• Follow straight

Parking is plentiful in York City, with 350 on-street meters and 1,260 garage spaces in three garages conveniently located within walking distance to downtown attractions.

GARAGE LOCATIONS

• Market Street Garage (41 E. Market St.)

• Philadelphia Street Garage (25 W. Philadelphia St.)

• King Street Garage (15 W. King St.)

FROM GETTYSBURG:

• Take Route 30 East to North George Street

• Turn right onto North George Street

• Follow straight

FROM SOUTH/BALTIMORE:

• Take I-83 North to South George Street Exit

• Follow Business I-83/South George Street

Parking just got a whole lot easier with the ParkMobile App!

No more scrambling to find loose change, returning to your car to feed the meter, or difficulty finding a spot. Download it to your mobile device before your next trip to Downtown York for an easy, contactless payment option.

• Central Market Parking Deck (W. Philadelphia & N. Beaver St.)

PARKING METERS

Metered, on-street parking is available. Enforcement hours are Monday through Friday, 8 am - 5 pm (Free on Sundays and holidays observed by the City of York), and Saturday from 9am - 3pm for parking meters located in the "Retail Zone." Meters are marked with the hours of operation and enforcement.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Please direct all parking questions, concerns and comments to:

YORK CITY PARKING BUREAU: 717.815.0517 @DowntownYorkPa

BY HANNAH BEARD | MARKETING & MERCHANT ENGAGEMENT MANAGER

the GRAB er GO& ACCESSIBLE, AFFORDABLE, AND ATTAINABLE: REFILLISM MAKES ECO-FRIENDLY EASY

Whether over a lunch break or a quick pit stop, you’re covered for whatever your speedy need might be in Downtown York.

Appropriately celebrated on Earth Day 2022, the grand opening Refillism marked the official launch of owner Elizabeth Bower’s dream to make sustainable living accessible to the York community.

“When people decide to be more ecofriendly and start looking online and at social media influencers, it can really seem unattainable, so it was important to me to make sure we offer good prices in the shop because I don’t want someone to say being ecofriendly is expensive. I don’t want that to be a barrier,” shares Elizabeth.

Refillism is a refill and zero waste shop that offers eco-friendly, refillable household and beauty products and other zero waste lifestyle products. After thinking about the fast growth of products sold in big box stores and how much pressure is put on the planet to produce, use, and then discard them, it became clear that THIS is where Refillism could make a difference by helping others make eco-friendly lifestyle changes.

Customers can bring in any clean container that they wish to refill with one of the many products, or purchase a refill container at the store. The container is then weighed prior to filling so you only pay for the contents.

Refillism shoppers will be delighted to see a variety of product options each with the simple ingredient list clearly displayed at each product. Whether it’s body products like toothpaste powder, miceller water, and shampoo, or home products like laundry power, carpet cleaner, and daily shower spray, Refillism makes even small sustainable steps much more impactful and attainable.

Refillism also offers in-store pick up for online orders. Simply shop online from the earth-friendly products you’d find in store, including per ounce liquid and powdered items, and pick up on your lunch break.

“When people decide to be more ecofriendly and start looking online and at social media influencers, it can really seem unattainable, so it was important to me to make sure we offer good prices in the shop because I don’t want someone to say being ecofriendly is expensive. I don’t want that to be a barrier.”

~ ELIZABETH BOWER, OWNER OF REFILLISM

My Girlfriend’s Wardrobe at 38 N. Beaver St. Need a new look? This women’s consignment shop has you covered with incredible prices on top designer brands. And with their shop online/pick up in store option, finding the perfect outfit is even easier!

mygirlfriendswardrobe.net

@MyGirlfriendsWardrobe

Indigo Bleu at 39 W. Philadelphia St.

Find a last-minute gift (or something for yourself) with the selection of small gift items, home décor, accessories and much more.

indigobleufashion.com

@IndigoBleuFashion @ShopIndigoBleuYork

A Tru Chance in Penn Market, 380 W. Market St.

Take your home décor and self-care to the next level with luxurious soy candles and cold-pressed soaps in a variety of fresh scents. atruchance.com @ATruChance

Boys Barking Bakery in Central Market, 34 W. Philadelphia St.

Don’t forget the four-legged loved ones in your life! Stop by for specialty treats, chews, bones and much more for your dog. Also offering treats for the cats too!

theboysbarkingbakery.com

@TheBoysBarkingBakery

38 S Beaver St | Refillism.com | @ShopRefillism

Elizabeth tells her story of why her family chose to live in Downtown York on page 24!

For “THE GRAB & GOER,” also check out:

Kable House Presents has hosted concerts inside Downtown York’s historic Central Market since 2014. Since then, this pop-up series has hosted more than 65 shows, where concertgoers have enjoyed a remarkably personal exchange between artist and audience.

This independent, volunteer-driven initiative showcases national touring acts in an intimate, listening-room environment. General admission tickets are available to the public, and food and beverages are available for purchase during the shows from featured Central Market vendors.

PAST SHOWS: Strand of Oaks, Aaron Lee Tasjan, Dom Flemons, Lydia Loveless, Joe Pug, Tony Lucca, David Wax Museum, Patrick Sweany, as well as sold-out shows with Cedric Burnside and 10-piece soul band The Suffers.

Love Live Music?

DOWNTOWN YORK IS YOUR SCENE.

BY JJ SHEFFER | DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY PROGRAMS

Downtown York has the options to experience live music of all genres, whether it’s checking out a local artist or a national touring act.

South central Pennsylvania is among the best places in the country to live if you like live, original music. We have great local and regional music communities, and we’re also within convenient proximity to larger metropolitan markets; it’s an easy drive to Baltimore, DC, and Philadelphia, and if you’re ambitious, New York and Pittsburgh can be visited in a single day. But thanks to some hardworking local promoters, you can see national touring acts right here in Downtown York.

Photo Credit: Philip Given

First Capital Dispensing Co is an intimate and friendly dive bar. Most Saturdays feature live music from local or national touring acts, and on the third Saturday of each month, the DJ Duo Hot Slop Boogie Bop spins records. Wednesday Friendsday is a popular open mic night hosted by the talented Nikki Sullivan. First Fridays feature the original music of local hero A.D. Chandler and friends, and every Monday night you can find The Cap’s artist/goofball in residence, Ronn Benway, singing originals and various cover songs while hosting the Monday Night Snack Club.

Know before you go: This is one of York’s few remaining bars where smoking is allowed inside.

CAPLIVE at the Appell Center for the Performing Arts

50 N. George St. • AppellCenter.org/CapLive @AppellCenter

The historic, 450-seat Capitol Theatre is home to CapLive, a concert series that launched in 2008 and features both emerging and established artists. The Capitol features a bar, a large balcony, and a gorgeous, beautifully-lit proscenium arch that makes for cool photos of your favorite band onstage. There isn’t a bad seat in the house.

PAST SHOWS: Carolina Chocolate Drops, Dawes, Hoots & Hellmouth, Black Joe Lewis & The Honeybears, Deer Tick, Bonnie “Prince” Billy, The Mountain Goats, Sharon Jones & the Dap Kings, Punch Brothers, John Doe, Justin Townes Earle, Alejandro Escovedo, Josh Ritter, The Lone Bellow, The Wood Brothers, Richard Thompson, Todd Snider, The Old 97s, and more.

WHITE ROSE MUSIC FEST

at PeoplesBank Park

50 Brooks Robinson Way

WhiteRoseMusicFest.com

The White Rose Music Fest is a new event bringing world-class performers to PeoplesBank Park in Downtown York over two nights – October 7 and 8, 2022. The event is a collaboration between the York Revolution and York College of Pennsylvania. Featuring headliners Jamey Johnson and Grace Potter, other artists include The Wood Brothers, Margo Price, and red-hot rising star Brittney Spencer.

Over the last 12 years, 1,500+ bands from all over the world –including punk, rock, and metal genres – have stopped to play a tiny underground venue run by Matt “MC” Hyser. He is currently renovating a long-vacant property on the 200 block of West Market Street to relocate the DIY venue, Skid Row Garage. The venue will feature quick and easy food alongside beer from local breweries.

Thex Q&A WITH ANTWOINE DORM

Generation

Executive Director, Stick-N-Move Boxing

BY BRITNEY BROOKS | DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Stick-N-Move Boxing, Inc., an innovative 501(c)(3) nonprofit devoted to creating a positive impact on low-income students’ lives, makes it their mission to nurture and inspire its students to find the healthy outlet necessary to achieve overall success and prepare them to be productive members of their community.

Formed in 2009, Antwoine Dorm and his team have committed themselves to providing extensive boxing instruction and wellness opportunities to students who, due to their families’ financial limitations, would not otherwise be able to participate in such a valuable program. Since its founding, the organization has helped over 1,700 participants.

QHow did you know when you needed to start your own program?

A. I was boxing at a local gym geared towards adults at the time, and also working in the homeless shelter. I remember helping a few troubled teens by training with them and letting them get their anger and aggression out. It was like magic seeing the change happen right before your eyes. They had even told their friends, and the next thing I knew I had a whole group of teenagers. We went to our local parks and the Princess Street Center, and was training in my childhood friend’s basement. It began to get crowded and I had to find more space. To see a community come together to help support is the most beautiful thing ever. I didn't feel like a leader and I did not want to be. I just wanted to motivate others.

QWhy

do you continue to support youth boxing?

A. I was not a troubled kid myself, I was more or less on the fence-I could have went left or right. I had a lot of anger held in and it was very rough at times. The sport of boxing is one of the main ingredients that saved my life. I remember hearing about the violence that was going on in our city and I knew if I could have an influence on people my age or older, that I could make a bigger impact on the younger generation. Just to have that satisfaction knowing that I saved another life is what wakes me up every day. At times I feel like giving up, but I remember why I started in the first place. How could I go around preaching to these young children not to give up and then turn around and give up myself? So, I suck it up and I keep on pushing.

QWhat would you consider one of your biggest success stories and how it changed their outlook for the future?

A. I work in a local K8 school and met a kid that was over 360 lbs. I expressed my concerns about his health with him, and offered to train him for free. For quite a while he kept turning me down but I was very persistent. It wasn't until I offered to go through the process with him, then he agreed to give it a try. After about 8 months of us training together, he lost 80 lbs. and I lost 30 lbs. It was very difficult at times but we kept on pushing and we did it all together. I was able to witness him make friends and be a lot more confident. But with that confidence, he became easily influenced by his peers and began to start hanging around the wrong crowd and shifted away from our program. However, I wasn't backing down and told him he wasn’t built for this. Eventually, he began to come back to the program. He really learned how to open up more and help other people with the same struggles. It was a rough process but it all was worth it because now he spreads his knowledge with others.

Q

What’s on the horizon for the program?

A. We plan to continue making changes in our city by adding other programs not only for children but also for adults, such as women's self-defense, personal training. In the near future, we will be adding a Tiny Boxers program for ages 5-7.

For “THE NEXT GENERATION,” also check out:

Shine Music Foundation For the aspiring singer/musician, this nonprofit strives to provide music education to every student in need and develop leadership and self-esteem while growing a passion for music. shinemusicfoundation.org, @ShineMusicFoundation

B.E.A.S.T. Initiative For the gamer, this organization teaches youth about the ever-growing career opportunities in the esports industry through mentorships that help mold them into the future leaders of the industry. beastpush.com, @BeastInitiative

Creative York For the artistic and creative thinkers, this arts organization focuses on providing the confidence to discover and express unlimited imagination and innate creativity through classes, camps, and more! creativeyork.org, @Creative York

Martin Library Programs & Events For those looking to discover a new skill or hobby, they need not look further than their local library! The programs offered meet state standards for early childhood education and support students' individual growth, and provide a space for fun and new opportunities. Located at the corner of Market & Queen Streets, yorklibraries.org/york-martin, @YorkCountyLibraries

HISTORIC YORK

History the Buff

A MUSEUM OF

Tr s m i

For those who love to learn more, the history of Downtown York is vast and impactful.

BY KATIE MAHONEY | VICE PRESIDENT, MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS

That is how Kelly Summerford, Manager of the William C. Goodridge Freedom Center and Underground Railroad Museum, describes the experience of visitors at this location on the National Register of Historic Places.

“People come to learn about the Underground Railroad, William Goodridge, and hopefully transform into, we hope, a better person, when dealing with culture specifics and the understanding of why the Underground Railroad was necessary,” Summerford shares. “Everyone wants to come to an Underground Railroad site, but few want to know why it needed to exist.”

The Goodridge Freedom Center and Underground Railroad Museum is located in the once owned home of Mr. William C. Goodridge at 123 E. Philadelphia St. in Downtown York and shares the story of his life as an abolitionist, and prominent African-American businessman in York. He owned and operated a barbershop, variety store, employment agency, line of railroad cars and delivery services, as well as built the tallest building of its time in York City. He and his wife also owned several properties, donating one that became an African-American school.

“Goodridge had the most robust business right there in the square. It was the premier emporium, and he sold everything in it, like the Amazon of today. He was an incredible businessman,” shares Summerford. “Fostering pride after so much being stripped away isn’t easy.”

The Goodridge Freedom Center and Underground Railroad Museum, owned and operated by Crispus Attucks York, is an authenticated Underground Railroad site and museum. “We are not a ‘check off list’ tour,” adds Summerford. “It’s an hour and 15 min tour, it’s not a drop in, not a lot of artifacts. The house itself is an artifact. You listen, you learn about those freedom seekers. You leave and will have a piece of history that you can share. Those that visit become abolitionists.”

Pl Your V

“I want to help people find a peaceful place,” shares Summerford. “You could come here and talk about anything – we are a safe space. Any -ism, you can discuss those here and KNOW you are in a safe environment. Whether financial freedom, or social freedom, we are living in a time where all of this is still necessary, but no longer still has to be a secret.”

The Goodridge Freedom Center and Underground Railroad has welcomed visitors from 48 states, and over 300 cities and towns. Reservations are needed to schedule a tour.

Tours are available Wednesdays and Saturdays from 10:00am - 6:00pm. All tours must be scheduled on goodridgefreedomcenter.org or by calling (717) 650-1998.

GoodridgeFreedomCenter

Coming S n...

GOODRIDGE STATUE

A bronzed life size statue in honor of William C. Goodridge will be installed in late Summer. This will be the first African-American statue in York County, installed in front of his home and now museum. Details on the installation and celebration will be available in coming weeks.

AFRICAN-AMERICAN HISTORY CENTER

Crispus Attucks is breaking ground in 2023 for an African-American History Center and Lecture Hall in York City. The almost 20,000-square-foot, three-story building will be located on Crispus Attucks’ campus at 605 S. Duke St. The three-story museum will feature exhibitions, guided tours and lectures on York’s African American history. By showcasing under told stories from the city’s Black community, the center aims to serve as a space for dialogue on race.

For “THE HISTORY BUFF,” also check out:

York County History Center at 250 East Market Street

Through murals with tours, lectures, workshops, exhibits, research facilities and living history programs, the History Center continues collecting, preserving and interpreting more than 250 years of York County’s rich and diverse history. The Center includes the Historical Society Museum and Library/Archives, Agricultural and Industrial Museum, Colonial Complex, The Bonham House, and Fire Museum. yorkhistorycenter.org | @YorkCountyHistoryCenter

BY HANNAH BEARD | MARKETING & MERCHANT ENGAGEMENT MANAGER

DISHES TO TRY

YORK TOWNE PO BOY: Fried shrimp and crab balls, lettuce, tomato, cole slaw, and remoulade sauce on a fresh roll

BEST CRAB DIP EVER: Crab dip made with a blend of cheese, horseradish, and spices, combined into a bread bowl for dipping

CRAB AND SHRIMP BISQUE: Creamy sherry laced tomato bisque that is fortified with crab meat and shrimp

The COVID-19 Pandemic brought George Platis out of retirement and back into the hospitality industry, but this time he landed in Downtown York. George grew up in his father’s restaurant in Brooklyn, New York and later retired from a career as a chef at a renowned seafood restaurant in Baltimore, Maryland. Retirement allowed him time to travel to different parts of the country, but when the COVID-19 Pandemic hit, he was pushed to explore the city of where he now lived, York, Pennsylvania.

During a drive through York City he noticed people walking in the market and decided to have a look for himself. “It was a whole new world,” he shared. “It’s a big beautiful building. As soon as I saw it, I thought I want a business in here.” George called upon an old friend from the restaurant industry, Joe Brady, and 2 Wild & Crabby Guys was officially formed.

Every dish served at 2 Wild & Crabby Guys is related to the crab. From the crab cakes that use sweet claw meat to the macaroni and cheese, crab is the focal concept. “We just want to put out the best product we can. As long as someone tries my food just once, I know they’ll come back,” shared Platis.

Since the opening of 2 Wild & Crabby Guys in November 2020, George and Joe have opened two other stands in Central Market: The Central Dog House, serving up gourmet hot dogs and The Grilled Cheeez, focused on, you guessed it, some awesome twists on the classic grilled cheese.

“We just want to put out the best product we can. As long as someone tries my food just once, I know they’ll come back.”

~ George Platis, Owner, 2 Wild & Crabby Guys

2

For “THE FOODIE,” also check out:

The Central Dog House in Central Market, 34 W. Philadelphia St.

DISH TO TRY: Big Texas Hound Dog - All beef Nathan’s hot dog topped with beef brisket, creamy cole slaw, blueberry BBQ sauce.

Slow & Low BBQ in Penn Market, 380 W. Market St.

DISH TO TRY: Smoked Brisket Sandwich with a side of Smoked Carrots

@SlowAndLowBBQpa

Caraballo Sisters in Penn Market, 380 W. Market St.

DISH TO TRY: Avocado Bowl – Customizable, and can be vegetarian with beans, rice and potatoes

@CaraballoSistersLLC

Rockfish Public House at 110 N. George St.

DISH TO TRY: Tuna Poke Nachos - Wakeme salad, sriracha mayo, wasabi dressing, wonton chips and tuna rockfishpublichouse.com, @RockfishPub

Paper Moon Waffle & Co. in Central Market, 34 W. Philadelphia St.

DISH TO TRY: Cheese Waffle topped with jam

@WaffleIronBoss

WILD AND CRABBY GUYS

Joe Brady, George Platis, and the staff of 2 Wild and Crabby Guys

York County Rail Trail Authority to Complete Extension to the Heritage Rail Trail

BY BRENDAN SALYARDS | MANAGER, ECONOMIC INITIATIVES

One hundred fifty-three years ago, President Ulysses S. Grant, at an event in Promontory Summit, drove a ceremonial golden spike which marked the completion of the first transcontinental railroad. Later this year, York County will have its own Golden Spike Ceremony marking the completion of the extension of the York County Heritage Rail Trail from John C. Rudy County Park to the Mason-Dixon Line.

Prior to the completion of the “Golden Spike” there was a roughly eight-block gap in the City of York between the existing Heritage Rail Trail and the Northern Extension. Many Trail-users, especially those from out of state, were unaware that just a few blocks away there was another 5.7 miles of trail. The completion of this project brings the total milage of the Heritage Rail Trail to over 27 miles. It’s ideal location for runners, walkers, bikers, and anyone interested in outdoor recreation in the Downtown.

Immediately to the South of the Heritage Rail Trail, lies Torrey C. Brown Trail which extends for another 20 miles. Both Trails are part of the conceptual Grand History Trail which envisions a fully connected trail loop stretching from Washington, D.C. to Gettysburg. While the connection has yet to be officially opened, trail-users are already utilizing the newly paved trail. Two portions of the project remain. The installation of lighting and the completion of the rail crossing. Jeff Shue, Director of Municipal Services with C.S. Davidson, anticipates that “both issues will be completed by the end of June, but the railroad crossing is one we cannot control”.

Home to part of the Heritage Rail Trail, Downtown York is the perfect pit stop for anyone enjoying a day in the outdoors.

For “THE OUTDOOR ENTHUSIAST,” also check out:

Farquhar Park at 570 N. Newberry Street

This lovely park, overlooking The Avenues neighborhood, boasts tennis courts, an exercise trail, playgrounds, and more. Plus, it is nestled up against Kiwanis Lake, home to a rookery.

Hoffman Sports Complex & Veterans Memorial Park at 500 Rockdale Avenue Looking to be active outside? This 72-acre municipal park is your destination, featuring softball fields, sand volleyball courts, a skate park, batting cages, playground, and more.

Girard Park at 710 East Maple Street

As part of a community-built project in 2019, this neighborhood park includes an open play field, basketball court, playground and more.

Penn Park at 100 West College Avenue

York’s first public park plays host to several community events and is home to basketball courts, playground and lots of open green space. You can even cool off in the summer months with a splashpad water feature.

Pal’s Park on the Rail Trail between West King Street and West Princess Street

If traveling with your four-legged friend, this community fenced dog park is a must stop with its convenient location along the Rail Trail.

@PalsParkYork

This map shows the Northern Extension of the Heritage Rail Trail, and when completed will bring the total mileage to over 27 miles, running from John C. Rudy County Park to the Mason-Dixon Line. Learn more at YorkCountyTrailTowns.com

If you’ve walked through the halls of Central Market, chances are you have seen the shiny barrels along Mudhook Brewing Company’s space and especially their outdoor seating area along W. Clarke Ave. Coming on its 11th anniversary, Mudhook Brewing Co. is a family-owned business and the first brewery to open in Downtown York. The word Mudhook, meaning “anchor,” is a fitting name for this Downtown York business which has been vital to revitalization.

“When I was looking to start my business with the brewed batches my son in law, Tim Wheeler, made,” shares owner Jeff Lau, “I knew that the convenience and access to resources and amenities like PeoplesBank Park was instrumental for a brew pub like ours to succeed.” Over the years, Mudhook has developed signature events like “Beach Days”, making his outdoor dining area a beach front destination with local performances, hosted in August of each year. With over 10 beers on tap; 4 signature and 6 rotating, Mudhook promises something for everyone, with the addition of local spirits and a growing menu.

If you’re a fan of craft beer, the Downtown has you covered for kicking back with a cold one!

SMALL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT: Mudhook Brewing Co.

BY SULLY PINOS I EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR & MARLENA SCHUGT I PROGRAM MANAGER BLOOM BUSINESS EMPOWERMENT CENTER

Throughout the pandemic, Mudhook Brewing Co. was able to maintain and expand operations with the support from the YoCo BLOOM Grant Program “BLOOM was there for my business and has helped me improve my location to continue our investment in York County,” said Jeff. As a recipient of the grant, Mudhook was able to add a purchase of a two-way indoor fireplace and most recently, will add an air pump and bike rack to be more welcoming for Rail Trail users.

our investment in York County.”

~ Jeff Lau, Owner, Mudhook Brewing Co.

“BLOOM was there for my business and has helped me improve my location to continue

Brewery

dwelling, family style

BY JONATHAN DESMARAIS | DIRECTOR OF DOWNTOWN INC

One might assume that moving a family to the city would require sacrifices like giving up parking or yard space. For downtown dwellers, Nicholas and Elizabeth Bower and their two kids, they have it all and then some! “York City is a great place for families that want to live in a place full of makers, do-ers, artists and visionaries,” shares Elizabeth. Their active family of four enjoys being able to walk to stores, parks and restaurants in the downtown area, while also being closer to events.

After re-locating to York two years ago, via Pittsburgh and Atlanta, the Bowers found the perfect house in Downtown York to fit their busy family’s needs. Built in the early 1900s, their city home is filled with detail and character, without sacrificing space or modern amenities. Boasting five bedrooms, a garage,

and a yard big enough for a garden, a patio for entertainment, and a lawn for the kids to play, their home on South George Street has all of the benefits of suburban living paired with the best of downtown life.

Whether it’s family night at a York Revolution baseball game, Saturday breakfast at Central Market, enjoying a date night at Hamir’s Indian Fusion, or exploring Downtown York’s many street festivals like York Flea or Go Green in the City, the Bower Family can experience it all, just outside their front door. “There are so many new things happening downtown we can't wait to see what's in store for York City,” shares Elizabeth. “The Yorktowne Hotel opening back up soon is so important for the city's tourism and economy. More and more restaurants keep coming, enlivening the downtown vibe.”

Elizabeth’s background as a licensed commercial interior designer is on full display in her family’s historic city home and in her recently opened refill and zero waste shop, Refillism, located in the Market District of Downtown York. Completing his training as a family doctor at York’s Memorial Hospital over ten years ago, Nicholas now serves as the University of Maryland’s Urgent Care Centers Medical Director. While his commute to work is not as simple as Elizabeth’s, he can hop on 83-South in a matter of seconds.

“We hope York keeps growing, getting new businesses, and attracting more people to dwell downtown,” share the Bowers.

Learn more about their shop, Refillism, on page 8!

“York City is a great place for families that want to live in a place full of makers, do-ers, artists and visionaries.”

~Elizabeth Bower

8.16

York Story Slam Archetype Pizza, 7-9 pm

Join the monthly gathering to hear true, personal stories, and maybe share your own! August’s theme is “Missed Connections”. Details at YorkStorySlam.com.

DowntownYorkPA.com

WEDNESDAY, JULY 20

BLOOM Business Series Workshop presented by PNC, 8:30-9:30am

FRIDAY, AUGUST 5

First Friday presented by WellSpan Health Downtown York, 5-9pm

THURSDAY, AUGUST 11

Downtown First Awards presented by The Glatfelter Agency PeoplesBank Park, 6-8pm

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 17

BLOOM Business Series Workshop presented by PNC, 8:30-9:30am

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2

First Friday presented by WellSpan Health Downtown York, 5-9pm

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 21

BLOOM Business Series Workshop presented by PNC, 8:30-9:30am

enrootyork.org

TUESDAY, AUGUST 8

PechaKucha Night York Keystone Kidspace, 6pm

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 7

Kable House Presents: WXPN Welcomes Carsie Blanton with Special Guest West and Ward Central Market, Doors 7pm/Showtime 8pm

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 20

York Story Slam: Schooled Archetype Pizza, 7-9pm

Photo Credit: Jason Plotkin

144 Roosevelt Avenue, Suite 100 York, PA 17401