Downtown York Magazine | Spring 24

Page 5

A Guide to the Downtown’s Cultural Offerings A TASTE OF Downtown York 14 SAVORING SYMPHONY: THE CULINARY EXCELLENCE OF HAMIR’S INDIAN FUSION 08 MAKING COMMUNITY THROUGH ART WITH OPHELIA’S MAKING AGENCY LIVING AND WORKING WITH STYLE, WITH VICTORIA KAGENI WOODWARD 20 THE CREATIVE CORE FOR MAKERS IN YORK COUNTY, PA • SPRING 2024

My Downtown

05 I Discover What Aneury Perez Loves About Downtown York

Plan Your Visit

06 I Downtown Map, Getting Here and Parking

Where to go and where to park

Ophelia’s Making Agency

08 I Making Community Through Art

The artists creating together at Ophelia’s Making Agency in the WeCo district

Feral Heart Club Vintage

12 I Beyond Threads: The Cultural Odyssey of Feral Heart Club Vintage Ariel Linebaugh and her journey through fashion and building a culture of upcycling

Downtown Dish

14 I Savoring Symphony: The Culinary Excellence of Hamir’s Indian Fusion

Hamir Patel's culinary adventure from private chef’s tables to downtown delight

BLOOM Business Empowerment Center

18 I A Slice of Culture in the Heart of Downtown Catalina Ruiz sharing her American Dream through Cupcakes & More

Downtown Dweller

20 I Living and Working with Style

Building a home and running a business in Downtown York, with Victoria Kageni Woodward of GUSA by Victoria

York County Trail Towns

22 I Bringing the Taste of Philly to York

How Mark Millek built Hefty Lefty’s Hoagies and Grinders

Historic York

24 I Capturing Downtown York’s Historic Architecture

Blake Gifford illustrates the buildings of York to preserve its history Events

26 I What’s happening around Downtown York

7 Food Spots to Discover Downtown’s Cultural Tapestry

Looking for a variety of cultural tastes? Look no further than Downtown York and its diverse dining offerings

ON THE COVER: (From L to R) Victoria Kageni Woodward (GUSA by Victoria), Mark Millek (Hefty Lefty’s Hoagies and Grinders), Catalina Ruiz (Cupcakes & More), Hamir Patel (Hamir’s Indian Fusion), Ophelia Chambliss (Ophelia’s Making Agency), and Ariel Linebaugh (Feral Heart Club Vintage). Photography by Emily Cover, Publisher/Area Director, Stroll Wyndham Hills | strollmag.com

SPRING 2024 Contents A TASTE OF Downtown York
16

View the digital versions of Downtown York magazine at Issuu.com/ DowntownYorkPa

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

Copyright © 2024 Downtown Inc. All rights reserved. No portion of this publication may be reproduced, in whole or in part, without the specific written permission of Downtown Inc.

INTERESTED IN LEARNING MORE ABOUT WHAT YORK COUNTY HAS TO OFFER? 144

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CREDITS
Roosevelt Ave., Suite 100 York, PA 17401

My Downtown with Aneury Perez

Q&A with Aneury Perez, Chair of the York Business Improvement District Authority, and member of the York County Economic Alliance Board of Directors. By day he is a Multi-Center Financial Manager and Certified Diverse Business Advocate with Fulton Bank.

Q: Being part of both boards and the BLOOM Business Empowerment Center, what do you find most rewarding?

There have been many times when my outreach as a banker with Fulton Bank aligned directly with that as a volunteer/ board member. A perfect example was during the pandemic when we were able to provide insight through various channels, like the YCEA and BLOOM, about resources available to small business owners. We have continued this partnership by providing entrepreneurs guidance as they start a new business or grow their existing one. I find myself regularly promoting the services of these entities while at work because of how well-aligned they are with what I do every day.

Board Of Directors

SARAH

HANNAH

Q: How do you enjoy your downtime in Downtown York?

My team at Fulton Bank enjoys ordering food from a place downtown, which often comes with a lesson of diversity/culture. My daughter enjoys coming downtown with her friends. Last year she spent her 10th birthday celebrating in Downtown York. They started by making soap at Sunrise Soap Company and ended at Pop Crafts where they enjoyed food while making custom signs for their bedrooms. Her friend enjoyed that experience and added Bound Books as the final stop for her birthday party.

Q: Favorite non-office place to host meetings?

I enjoy the convenience of Prince Street Café and Gather 256 for small groups, which we’ve used for our Little League meetings. Plus, their food is great! When meeting clients, Iron Horse York is a go-to for us because of location, as well as the consistent menu and friendly atmosphere.

Q: A favorite go-to lunch or dinner spot?

Skillet2Plate Soul Bistro and LettUsKnow seem to be the usual go-to places while at work. My wife really likes Neama’s Egyptian Foods

Downtown
Team
Inc
O’BRIEN Director of Downtown Inc
BEARD Marketing & Merchant Engagement Manager
MARTIN Urban Revitalization Manager KATIE MAHONEY Chief Marketing & Business Development Officer Chair: ANEURY PEREZ Fulton Bank Vice Chair: JULIAN TOLBERT Community Investor Treasurer: JOANNE WILMORE Grace Manor B&B MELISSA BEAVERSON Explore York LAUREN DAYS Sara Ellen Event Venue CHRIS HARRIS Stock & Leader JOHN KLINEDINST C.S. Davidson, Inc SARAH MALINSKY Royal Square Development & Construction ERIC MENZER The York Revolution DELIA PABON The Wired Chef CINDY STEELE Central Market House
BRONLEY

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!

06 | Downtown York | Welcome to Downtown York MARKET ST KING ST PHILADELPHIA ST NORTH ST PRINCESS ST COLLEGE AVE GAS AVE MASON AVE CLARK AVE GEORGE ST DUKE ST BEAVER ST PERSHING AVE QUEEN ST PINE ST NEWBERRY ST PENN ST CODORUS CREEK HERITAGE RAIL TRAIL CODORUSCREEK ROYAL SQUARE MARKET DISTRICT WeCo (WEST of CODORUS) WellSpan Park Appell Center for the Performing Arts Central Market House Penn Market The Yorktowne Hotel 1 2 3 Bike Parking Dining Museum Bar Park Courthouse Shopping W Philadelphia St Parking Garage 25 W Philadelphia St Market St Parking Garage 41 E Market St King St Parking Garage 15 W King St Police Parking KEY : On-Street Parking Meters 1 2 3 N S E W

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

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

Downtown Map, Getting Here and Parking | SPRING 2024 | 07

MAKING COMMUNITY THROUGH

What do a retired school art teacher, a grandmother, and a small business owner have in common? They are all part of a new community of artists in Downtown York’s WeCo District brought together by a love of art and the desire to pursue their passion in a supportive, collaborative environment at Ophelia’s Making Agency.

Since opening her doors a little over a year ago, Ophelia Chambliss of Ophelia’s Making Agency activated and reenergized the continued interest in the WeCo District by bringing attention to our community's robust arts scene, providing working studio space to further enrich our cultural offerings, and assisting small and minority-owned businesses to position them for success. Now, Ophelia has doubled her footprint in WeCo by opening additional artist spaces just two doors down from her original space at 253 W Market St.

“The goal of Making Agency was always to provide services that combine creativity, culture, and career development to enable artists to become business professionals and serve as an economic driver to the downtown area,” said Ophelia of her purpose in developing this space. “Having agency allows creatives to realize the possibilities of what once was a side hustle into a viable and sustainable source of income.”

08 | Downtown York | Making Community Through Art
The artists creating together at Ophelia’s Making Agency in the WeCo district
Art

FEATURED Artists

Agency. “I appreciate having a space to myself that I don’t have to worry about my kids getting into, while also being a part of a community of artists.”

BFA from Edinboro University, decided to return to art after raising children and grandchildren and found the perfect environment for her renewed work at OMA. “Everyone here is so friendly and we all get along so well and learn from each other in unexpected ways.”

respected artist who currently has several exhibitions running including one at the Capitol Building in Harrisburg but chose to have a space at OMA because it would help him stay connected to the community that continues to inspire and embrace him. “Everyone here has their own unique gifts, and it inspires me to continue in my work to bring joy through art.”

FEATURED Artists

Lauren Stine has always had art as a hobby but decided to take a chance at making something more of it by renting a space at OMA.

“Ophelia has created such a safe and supportive space that I knew right away when first visiting that I would be able to grow here.”

Darrell Dewitt has worked in and around the arts his entire life, including time as a school art teacher. He is in the midst of setting up his space at OMA to create pottery. “I had a space in my garage where I was working, but here I have a much nicer (and warmer) place to work that also offers a social component that you don’t have at home.”

251-253 W Market St making-agency.com I

Beyond Threads

The

Cultural

Odyssey of Feral Heart Club

Vintage

Ariel Linebaugh and her journey through fashion and building a culture of upcycling

Feral Heart Club Vintage

400-square-foot hub of colorful, multi-textured, and eclectic vintage womenswear, accessories, and décor accents. It’s more than just a retail space at 49 N. Beaver St. that stocks clothing from the 40s through the early aughts. “Vintage clothing has been influenced by what is happening at that time in the world,” says owner, Ariel Linebaugh, “The articles of clothing tell a story that reflects the culture.”

12 | Downtown York | Beyond Threads: The Cultural Odyssey of Feral Heart Club Vintage
“I tend to source items that are bright, colorful, avant-garde. The article is the piece. It’s the statement item.”
~ ARIEL LINEBAUGH

After a decade of bringing Feral Heart Club Vintage to pop-up events and being part of the local consignment community, Ariel was ready to bring her unique aesthetic and vintage vibes to a store of her own. As to why she picked Downtown York as the home of Feral Heart, it’s because this is where she has lived and worked for the last 10 years. “We are a retro little town. I love it.”

Vintage culture encompasses a diverse and conscious community that rejects fast fashion and embraces a more steadfast wardrobe. Ariel respects and embodies the concept that vintage clothing is often of higher quality and made to stand the test of time. Articles, styles, and aesthetics from past eras are cyclical and come back around through the decades.

Feral Heart Club Vintage embodies the deviation of disposable culture, emphasizing the enduring quality and style of items from the past. “Every article is unique,” explains Ariel, “I tend to source items that are bright, colorful, avant-garde. The article is the piece. It’s the statement item.”

Ariel calls her sourcing adventures in old homes and estates, ‘search and rescues.’ Vintage culture often involves do-it-yourself (DIY) projects, where enthusiasts restore or repurpose old items, giving them new life. If she comes across an article of clothing that is in disrepair, she’ll upcycle it into another wearable form or piece of décor.

In addition to carrying women's vintage clothing, Ariel handmakes retro-style accessories, like earrings, and has a line of handcrafted high-quality cosmetics made with natural mineral colorants and biodegradable glitters.

Feral Heart Club Vintage showcases the individualism of past fashions and design quality that stands out from mass-produced contemporary trends, intending to celebrate fashion’s reflection of the culture at that time in history and apply it to the modern day.

Feral Heart Club Vintage | SPRING 2024 | 13 49 N Beaver St feralheartclub.com

Savoring Symphony

THE CULINARY EXCELLENCE OF HAMIR’S INDIAN FUSION

In the heart of Downtown York, Hamir's Indian Fusion is a culinary gem and has been perfecting the cultural dining experience for the past six years. Founded by the self-made and self-taught chef, Hamir Patel, this restaurant stands as a testament to innovation and a commitment to creating memorable dining experiences.

Before the doors opened on North George Street, Hamir spent years testing and refining his dishes. It was not just about creating delicious meals; it was a journey of experimentation and his love for his family and friends that inspired him. Hamir would host intimate chef’s table-style fundraisers for charities near and dear to him.

A unique aspect of Hamir's journey was his participation in York's Taste Test, a restaurant incubator space at 101 S. Duke Street that birthed 25 pop-ups and several permanent businesses before wrapping in 2019. As the first to audition, Hamir made it to the next round with a soldout event.

This success led to the establishment of a pop-up restaurant where he wowed diners with his fusion creations for three months. He wanted to be part of the Downtown York revitalization and bring people into the city.

14 | Downtown York | Savoring Symphony: The Culinary Excellence of Hamir’s Indian Fusion
DOWNTOWN DISH
Hamir Patel's culinary adventure from private chef’s tables to downtown delight

Dishes

Drinks

Chocolate Espresso Martini Chocolate vodka, freshly brewed espresso shot, Cantera Negra coffee liqueur from Mexico, and Baileys chocolate liqueur (above).

Indian Rum Punch 7-year-old Old Monk Indian Rum, passion fruit, orange liqueur, lime juice, coconut syrup, and grenadine.

Hamir's Indian Fusion stands out not only for its warm hospitality but also for its bold fusion of Indian flavors with Italian, Mexican, Thai, Chinese, and Cajun influences into his dishes. Common spices like cumin and coriander act as the culinary glue, harmonizing diverse flavors into a symphony on the plate. The meticulous process of creating each recipe reflects Hamir's goal to create dishes that he personally enjoys. Using fresh spices ground in-house, Hamir crafts his own bases, like curry, every few days, ensuring every dish is as unique as it is fresh.

“I always take care of the guests and make them feel at home. Give them the unique experience they desire,” he “We strive for this every day. What can we do every day to wow the guests.”

“The support of many brought me here. I look to support others and help them. If I have something to help others, why not? It’s all about that.”

In 2022, Hamir's Indian Fusion achieved another milestone by securing an Economic Development Liquor License with the assistance and support from the York County Economic team, allowing the introduction of a new cocktail menu. These carefully crafted libations complement the diverse flavors on the menu, offering a delightful pairing for patrons seeking a complete fusion experience.

Downtown Dish | SPRING 2024 | 15
24 S George St | 717.430.4173 hamirs.com I

DOWNTOWN DISH – LISTICLE

Journey through a curated selection of culturally diverse restaurants and eateries where every dish tells a story and every bite is a celebration of Downtown York’s multicultural spirit.

Detroit Street Food

Penn Market, 380 W. Market St.

Owner, Chef Steph, is a Detroit, MI native who moved to York in 2019 and opened Detroit Street Food as a way to honor her hometown. Chef Steph is a lover of music and food, and loves to unite people with a taste of the city that raised her.

DISH TO TRY:

Detroit Coney, an all-beef hot dog, with signature chili, white onions, and mustard.

Central Market, 34 W. Philadelphia St.

Discover delicious delicacies cooked to  perfection with the best ingredients and deeply rooted in tradition.

DISH TO TRY:

Lamb Shawarma featuring lamb, lettuce, tomato, onions, feta cheese, and tzatziki sauce.

24 N. George St.

Serving fresh dishes that define Egyptian cuisine, this restaurant has become a local favorite, known for delivering the true taste of Egypt.

DISH TO TRY: Pickled Eggplant

16 | Downtown York | 7 Food Spots to Discover Downtown's Cultural Tapestry
Lamb Shawarma from Middle Eastern Shawarma Middle Eastern Shawarma Neama’s Egyptian Food

Picalonga Sabor Tropical

111 E. King St.

Nestled in the Royal Square District, Picalonga Sabor Tropical has been serving authentic Latin cuisine in Downtown York for 8 years. Picalonga is a quaint restaurant with a commitment to authenticity and a menu that tells a story of York’s Latin heritage.

DISH TO TRY:

Picalonga features fried chicken, pork, Dominican sausage, and fried green plantains.

Central Market, 34 W. Philadelphia St.

Located in the Central Market House, Little Elephant Thai food marries affordability with flavor. Order by your appetite: “Baby Elephant” for one menu item, “Mommy Elephant” for two menu items, or “Daddy Elephant” for three menu items.

DISH TO TRY:

Ginger Tofu and Vegetables

World Grills

58 W. Market St.

Mesa Moreira is an inviting dining experience that showcases Portuguese dishes in an elevated dining atmosphere. With the chef and owner having roots in Portugal, authenticity is ensured in every bite.

DISH TO TRY:

Seafood Paella, which features lobster, clams, shrimp, mussels, and scallops with yellow rice.

Fresh Asian food and Thai spices meshed together for the perfect combination of bold, flavorful, and comforting.

DISH TO TRY:

Panang Chicken has creamy and sweet curry combined with Panang chili paste, coconut milk, and vegetables, and served with rice.

Downtown Dish - Listicle | SPRING 2024 | 17
Little Elephant Thai Food Mesa Moreira 29 E. King St.

A SLICE OF CULTURE IN THE HEART OF DOWNTOWN

Cupcakes & More, a destination for sweet treats in Downtown York, has been in operation for over five years, first opening its doors at Central Market at 34 W. Philadelphia St. in 2018. With nearly a dozen different cupcake flavor options and specialty cakes by order, Catalina Ruiz has chosen the path of entrepreneurship as part of her American dream.

Catalina started working at Central Market in the “Just Cupcakes” stand and later had the opportunity to purchase the business and continue its legacy under the name “Cupcakes and More.” She is grateful for the encouragement she had to pursue the business and the resources to help her business grow, such as a BLOOM grant and the classes on financial management with the BLOOM Business Empowerment Center

18 | Downtown York | A Slice of Culture in the Heart of Downtown
Catalina Ruiz sharing her American Dream through Cupcakes & More BLOOM BUSINESS EMPOWERMENT CENTER

Catalina and her family have been in York for over 20 years, coming from Mexico, and love the sense of family and support throughout the community. Often, you can find her family members helping at the stand. She attributes much of her success to learning the passion of cooking from her grandma and relatives during her upbringing in Mexico.

“I have always had a deep respect for my culture because I consider that, like many others, it is very rich and contributes cultural and gastronomic value to the world,” shared Catalina. “It has been important for me to be able to learn recipes to give you a little piece of my sweet Mexico”.

In furthering her support of her heritage, Catalina volunteers with the local York County Hispanic Coalition with cupcake fundraisers for their scholarship program to help students achieve their own version of the American dream of pursuing higher education.

WHAT TO TRY: The Chocolate Peanut Butter

Cupcake continues to be a favorite, but checking out the Saturday specials, like Catalina’s Mexican-style Tres Leches Cake, is also highly recommended! You might also find other Mexican dessert treats like churros and Conchas.

CATALINA’S PICK: Raspberry Chocolate Cupcake and the Quesillo, a version of Mexicanthemed cheesecake.

|

34 W Philadelphia St (Inside Central Market) 717.495.7590

LIVING AND WORKING with Style

20 | Downtown York | Living and Working with Style
DOWNTOWN DWELLER
Building a home and business in Downtown York, with Victoria Kageni Woodward of GUSA by Victoria

“We can create the kind of atmosphere and space that we need for ourselves. No matter how small it may be, you can create and customize your space with things right in your backyard,” shares Victoria Kageni Woodard.

With a passion and an eye for interior design, Victoria’s Courthouse Commons Afro-centric home reflects her Kenyan heritage. “My home is a lot like a museum,” she explains. The fabric for her curtains and customupholstered furniture, sculptures, and artwork are all from Africa.

Victoria chose to live in Downtown York to be where all the action is. When the new Courthouse Commons condominiums opened up, she jumped at the chance to be so close to her shop, GUSA by Victoria, located at 46 Duke St. The convenience of being near her shop meant she could make sure it was open no matter if it rains or snows. In GUSA by Victoria, you will find the use of Kenyan fabrics in all of her clothes, as well as the ability to order a custom piece. Most recently, she designed a piece worn to the Oscars for the guest of York native and Oscar award winner, Erin Owens

Being in Downtown York has opened many doors for Victoria, not only locally but across the country. From clients visiting her store to networking at local events, she’s connected with people from all walks of life that she wouldn’t have met before. This allows her to share her culture as well, and as a self-appointed Kenyan ambassador for York City, Victoria is curating pieces that are all things Kenyan – from coffee and teas to fabrics, and more.

Victoria enjoys the walkability to the Yorktowne Hotel from her condo and shop, as well as shopping at Bound Books and other merchants. As someone who prides herself on sustainability, Refillism is one of Victoria’s personal favorite Downtown York merchants. When she needs a bite to eat, she frequents Hamir’s Indian Fusion, as “the spices he uses remind me of my upbringing.”

As a soon-to-be empty nester, Victoria thrives living in Downtown York and enjoys expressing her creativity and heritage not only in her storefront but also in her home.

46 S Duke St | 717.739.9288 gusabyvictoria.com I

Bringing the Taste of Philly to York

How Mark Millek built Hefty Lefty’s Hoagies and Grinders

Over the past few months, there has been an explosion of interest in Mark Millek’s Hefty Lefty’s Hoagies and Grinders, a stand operating in Downtown York’s Central Market since 2018. Sparked by a social media post that went viral; and fed by a steady stream of word-of-mouth promotions and media coverage, Hefty Lefty’s has quickly become one of the hottest eateries in the area, with patrons willing to stand in line for up to an hour and half past closing time.

The positive reception from the York community has surprised Mark but isn’t something he takes for granted. “It’s overwhelming. I’ve been blessed,” shares Mark. “Since we went viral in the Hoagie Gurus Group, the business has been incredible. People have been sharing it by word of mouth. It’s been humbling.”

Mark started Hefty Lefty’s as a side business while working as a produce manager for The Giant Company (Giant Food Stores), and it began as a way for him to explore his passion outside of work. Opening a stand in the Central Market allowed Mark to develop his business in a lower-risk environment and develop relationships with suppliers.

Mark had his initial hesitations about starting his own business, but when it comes to providing advice for others thinking about starting their next adventure, he tells them to “Just do it.” Mark states, “Don’t be scared. Working for yourself is the dream. It’s worth it.”

Mark’s passion for quality ingredients shines through his work. His daily routine begins at 5:15 am. After a quick stop for coffee, he starts preparing for the 10 am opening by prepping his vegetables which he sources from Eastern York Market. Over years of operation, he’s experimented with different vendors and has cultivated a network of suppliers for his ingredients. The rolls for his cheesesteaks, which are made with fresh ribeye, come from Conshohocken Bakery. His hoagie rolls come from Liscio’s Italian Bakery & Deli in Glassboro, New Jersey. The seeded loaves from Liscio’s are now a fundamental component helping to contain the distinctive rolled meat that characterizes a Hefty Lefty’s hoagie.

As a Trail-Friendly Business, Mark is committed to serving folks who use the Heritage Rail Trail. Mark’s wife Christy thru-hiked the Appalachian Trail in 2022 and they’re both avid users of the York County Heritage Rail Trail.

As far as the future goals for Hefty Lefty’s, according to Mark, it will always have a presence in the Central Market. Hefty Lefty’s has been experimenting with online ordering and is working to meet the increased demand both from in-store customers and for catering orders. Mark hopes to introduce a Philly-style Italian roast pork sandwich, which would be topped with spinach and/or broccoli rabe. Further expansion may be in the works but not until Mark’s youngest daughter graduates from high school.

Inside Central Market House 34 W Philadelphia St heftyleftys.com | 717.495.7590 |

HISTORIC

CAPTURING DOWNTOWN YORK’S Hist ic Architecture

Blake Gifford illustrates the buildings of York to preserve its history

Referred to by some as an architectural museum, Downtown York’s eclectic architectural style reflects nearly the full range of American architectural history. From the 18th-century timber-framed Plough Tavern, through to the post-modern styles of today, Downtown York has buildings that run the gamut of architectural styles and designs.

For Blake Gifford, an architect by trade, York is defined by its balance of various motifs. Blake, while not a York native, clearly displays his enthusiasm for York’s architectural heritage, a passion which derives from having grown up in the absence of a walkable main street community in suburban Houston, Texas.

In his youth, Blake developed an interest in detailed hand drawing as a hobby based on his interest in the Star WarsTM Cross Section books that were released in the 1990s, and other similar books of illustrations. Inspired to pursue a profession in which he could leverage this interest, Blake pursued one in architecture. His career and personal life brought him to York, Pennsylvania in 2015. While living on E. Market Street, Blake had a view outside his window of the York Water Company Building. In 2021, he began posting his drawings on Instagram and his website.

24 | Downtown York | Capturing Downtown York’s Historic Architecture
YORK

Blake’s Fav ite Buildings:

THE FLUHRER BUILDING (17 West Market Street), was built in 1911 and was originally home to Fluhrer’s Jewelry Store and was designed by the firm of John A. Dempwolf.

YORK TELEPHONE & TELEGRAPH COMPANY (31 South Beaver Street), built in 1931, this building was also designed by Dempwolf’s firm and is a fantastic example of the Art Deco Style.

TOP LEFT: Fluhrer Building – 17 W Market St

MIDDLE LEFT: Central Market House – 34 W Philadelphia St

BOTTOM LEFT: Laurel-Rex Fire Station – Duke & King Streets

As a member of the Historic Architectural Review Board (HARB) and the York County History Center’s Building and Grounds Committee, Blake is committed to ensuring that York’s built environment remains balanced. “Historic Preservation is immensely important,” stated Blake. “A place with a lack of connection to its roots loses its identity. Historic Preservation provides a measurable impact for our quality of the environment. Sometimes you have to live in a lack of it to realize what you’re missing.”

Blake has just published a 3D model and rendered images that provide a glimpse into the past by allowing individuals to view the designs of York’s City Market which stood on the corner of South Duke and East Princess streets from 1878 until 1963. Blake has an upcoming show at the Grotto during York Arts Week, from August to September.

If you’re interested in learning more about York’s architectural history, you’re in luck. Blake has been informally providing walking tours of Downtown York for the past year. This year, he plans to formally launch a tour booking page on his website, where you’ll also find several of his prints are available for purchase. If there’s a building in Downtown York that you would like to see drawn, Blake is available for commission. Be sure to keep an eye out for more forthcoming work from Blake, as he shines a spotlight on Downtown York and its rich history.

For more information on Blake and to view his portfolio, visit YorkArchIllustrated.com.

Events

05.3 SPRING 2024

Give Local York & First Friday presented by WellSpan Health

Downtown York, 5-9 pm

Join in celebrating York County’s biggest day of giving with fun and activities for all! Give Local York’s 24-hour fundraising spree will run from 9 pm on May 2 through 9 pm on May 3. Learn more at givelocalyork.org

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 8-9 AM: Downtown Update Appell Center for the Performing Arts

FRIDAY, JUNE 7, 5-9 PM:

First Friday presented by WellSpan Health Downtown York

FRIDAY, JULY 5, 5-9 PM:

First Friday presented by WellSpan Health Downtown York For details, visit DowntownYorkPA.com

For details, visit YCEAPA.org

THURSDAY, MAY 2, 11:30 AM-1:30 PM

Legislative Luncheon presented by Buchart Horn Outdoor Country Club, 1157 Detwiler Dr.

TUESDAY, MAY 7, 5-7 PM

Regional Women’s Business Mixer John Wright Restaurant, 234 N Front St, Wrightsville

TUESDAY, MAY 14, 11:30 AM-1 PM

WBCO Luncheon: ATHENA Panel presented by UPMC Heritage Hills Resort, 2700 Mt. Rose Ave.

TUESDAY, MAY 21, 5-7 PM

YoCo Connect Live: Make Your Mark at Ruins Hall presented by Murray 30 Enterprise St, Glen Rock

WEDNESDAY, MAY 29, 7:30-8:30 AM

Economics Club Event: BLOOM Programming presented by Glatfelter Insurance Group Wyndham Garden York, 2000 Loucks Rd

FRIDAY, JUNE 7, 11:30 AM

36th Annual Golf Outing presented by UPMC Royal Manchester Golf Links, 5700 Board Rd, Mount Wolf

TUESDAY, JUNE 11, 11:30 AM-1 PM

WBCO Luncheon: Mental Health & Awareness presented by UPMC Heritage Hills Resort, 2700 Mt Rose Ave.

144 Roosevelt Avenue, Suite 100 York, PA 17401

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