celebrating 55 years of serving Lancaster’s builders, remodelers, and homeowners, with roots tracing back further. As construction standards change, new products enter the market, and community needs evolve over time, GR Mitchell has leveraged its ability to quickly adapt and grow. From humble beginnings, it has proudly maintained a small business mentality over the years.
Refton Roots
George R. Mitchell got his start in 1946 working for IB Graybill’s, a small, family-owned business in Refton that dealt with feed, fertilizer, coal, and building materials. George quickly moved up and ran the operation by the 1960s. On June 1, 1969, George purchased the business and renamed it GR Mitchell Inc.
Steve, George’s son, joined the family business soon after its birth. GR Mitchell added to its business when it became an American Hardware (now True Value) store in 1977, providing customers with all the complementary tools needed to build. The company continually adapted its building supply and retail store inventory to serve the community’s growing demand. Passing the Torch
When George Mitchell retired in 1985, he sold the business to Steve. As the new owner, Steve acquired the team and equipment needed for GR Mitchell to open an architectural millwork department.
With a need for more space, Steve purchased a 13-acre tract in Willow Street. By 1996, a 10,000-square-foot hardware store, a 25,000-square-foot building supplies warehouse, and an expansive lumberyard opened for business. The move enabled GR Mitchell to service an expanded territory from York County to southeast Pennsylvania.
The Refton property remained for the custom millwork operation, and in 2005 GR Mitchell opened a Yorktowne Kitchen Cabinetry Showroom in York, which included a fully operating kitchen.
Continuing a Legacy
When George R. Mitchell passed away in 2011, Tom Keller joined GR Mitchell in a sales role, possessing the same hunger evident in
both George and Steve. Keller promptly proved invaluable in supporting GR Mitchell’s growth. In 2016, Keller started a sister company, Prime Builder Services, offering frame installation and trim for larger commercial jobs and providing general contractors a one-source supply and install solution.
On GR Mitchell’s 50th anniversary in 2019, Steve stepped down and entrusted Tom Keller as the owner of GR Mitchell. Building new offices and expanding the retail and showroom spaces at Willow Street, integrating with new business software, and hiring key staff further improved GR Mitchell’s ability to serve customers efficiently.
The Latest Addition – Ironstone Building Materials
In 2024, the company expanded for its customers in a big way, by acquiring Ironstone Building Materials in Lancaster.
With history in the local market, Ironstone started in 2000 as a flipping hobby for owner Dave O’Connor and soon earned a reputation as THE affordable building material supplier in the area. With a focus on decking, railing, doors, cabinetry, and trim, Ironstone found its permanent home on Hempland Road in 2011 and achieved recognition beyond Pennsylvania. Casual conversations between Dave’s son, Jesse, and Tom Keller led to a business decision that would bring value to both organizations and allow Dave to retire.
Because of its recognition, Ironstone’s name remains unchanged; however, GR Mitchell’s signature blue appears on various assets. The combined buying power of two leading suppliers attracts the nation’s largest manufacturers, whose unique buying programs now extend to the combined customer base.
This pairing broadened assortment for each location’s customers. Stocked decking, railing, flooring, doors, and bathroom vanities weren’t a focus for GR Mitchell due to space constraints, but now those categories extend to GR Mitchell’s customers.
Conversely, Ironstone’s loyal customer base will benefit from an expansive assortment of lumber, hardware, and other materials along with GR Mitchell’s key investments: a best-in-class ERP system, a dynamic delivery fleet, customer and staff education, and more.
Here to Stay
Looking forward, GR Mitchell is in for the long haul. It continues to serve a combination of general contractors, commercial builders, and DIY homeowners, while its employees listen carefully to each customer in order to do what’s necessary to meet their needs.
With the newest branch, both contractors and cash-and-carry DIYers can get Pennsylvania’s best deals in decking, railing, and more. Ironstone’s showroom also features value-based cabinetry lines and dependable design services for anyone’s new kitchen.
GR Mitchell’s kitchen design team in York is moving to a new showroom space in Queens Gate, which better suits its homeowner and contractor clientele. An open house for this reopening is in the works.
To learn more about GR Mitchell and its ability to supply customer projects, visit www.GRMitchell.com. Stocked inventory in GR Mitchell’s newest warehouse at Ironstone can be viewed at www.BuildingMaterialsPa.com.
We live in a remarkable place that we are proud to call home. From our farmlands to our suburban communities and vibrant city streets, our region represents a blend of diversity. We understand the value of supporting local businesses and meaningful connections with our neighbors. By preserving our roots and embracing innovation, we remain resilient during tough times and relevant amidst our changing world.
Over the past 70 years, our business has witnessed profound changes - not only within our organization but across the local business landscape. We are incredibly grateful for the lasting partnerships and opportunities to tell the stories of those who shape and transform our community. As we look forward, we are excited to find fresh ways for creativity and engagement. Let’s keep working together and make the most of what tremendous resources we have right here. Here’s to many more years of success!
PUBLISHER
Jocelyn Engle
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Ann Mead Ash | Cathy Molitoris
Francine Fulton | Wendy Royal
COVER DESIGN
EPC Creative Department
CREATIVE
Melissa McKee
ADVERTISING SALES MANAGERS
Greg March | Randy Miller
“In 2017, Dayspring Christian Academy began looking for a new location; it had simply outgrown its home on College Avenue in Mountville. After the school’s leadership had searched many options, God provided the perfect spot, located a little over 1 mile from its current address. DCA was able to purchase the land, by the grace of God, debt-free in November 2022. Shortly after the purchase, Headmaster Dan Stone and a group of student representatives visited the land and prayed over it, thanking God for His blessings and praying for the future of the school and those who enter its doors.”
“The Lititz recCenter has been serving the community for 80 years! Today we are the primary recreation, aquatics, and fitness provider in the Warwick region as well as being a large childcare provider alongside with the Warwick School District. The Lititz recCenter is a critical multigenerational social connector supporting families, youth, young adults, and seniors.”
“Quarryville Presbyterian Retirement Community is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year! The photo shows the 63rd and 64th cottages under construction in the final phase of our Great Rock neighborhood. This duplex Franklin model offers a stunning view of our Five Stone Pond.
For 75 years, Quarryville has been Grounded in Faith, Growing in Community, and Guided by Grace.”
“After purchasing the land in 1989, Steve Mitchell (pictured, center) finally broke ground on GR Mitchell’s expansion into Willow Street in 1995. Steve’s dad (also pictured, left), incorporated GR Mitchell in 1969 at their original location in Refton, PA. The new land allowed for the construction of their hardware store, design showroom, and expansive lumberyard that still serves both builders and homeowners across the Susquehanna Valley”
“The Quarryville Library originated in 1976 on St. Catherine Street with one trailer and expanded twice after to a total of three trailers. Out of popularity and community necessity, we broke ground on our current building at 357 Buck Road in 2000, with a grand opening on April 1, 2001. Providing 12,200 square feet, the library now supports and serves over 38,000 community members through materials, resources, and programs.”
“Cordier Auctions, a reputable name in the auction industr y, has embarked on a significant transformation as the next generation steps into leadership roles. This transition signifies not just a change in management but also a continuation of Cordier’s legacy, built on trust, expertise, and excellence in auctioneering. The new leadership brings fresh perspectives and innovative ideas, ensuring Cordier remains at the forefront of the industr y, adapting to modern trends while maintaining the values that have defined its success over the years. This transition represents a seamless blend of tradition and innovation, promising an exciting future for Cordier Auctions and its clientele. For more information, please contact us at 717-731-8662 or info@cordierauction.com or visit our website at www. cordierauction.com.”
BY WENDY ROYAL
Why the name Legacy & Innovation? Because it embodies where and who we are as a company and as a community. To outsiders, the area we call home is best known for its heritage - a bountiful farming community where faith and family are the cornerstones. Here, quaint small towns and a vibrant city thrive side by side, bringing a unique and valuable perspective that enriches us all. While we appreciate our roots and what makes us strong, we embrace innovation. Building on that foundation has led to great strides in our access to groundbreaking services in technology and medicine.
Lancaster General Hospital (LGH) has provided outstanding patient care to our community since 1893. When LGH became part of the Penn Medicine Health System in 2015, it opened access to one of the most respected hospital systems in the U.S. Additionally, in 2023, Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health earned accreditation as a Level 1 Trauma Center, bringing a higher degree of patient care to the area.
Much of the picturesque landscape of Lancaster County remains agricultural thanks to Lancaster Farmland Trust, a nonprofit committed to preserving and protecting our farmland. According to the organization, nearly 37,000 acres of farmland have been preserved, but that leaves 300,000 acres still at risk of being developed. The county’s farms boast some of the world’s richest, most productive agricultural soil, making this land our most valuable natural resource. It’s not just about preserving our past but protecting our future.
While we strive to preserve what has been our identity for generations, businesses have embraced the future through emerging technology. The use of AI (artificial intelligence) is becoming more mainstream in the business sector. Even with concerns about the technology, some aspects of AI are commonly used by small businesses. Virtual assistants, website chatbots, and assisting with process development are some of the ways small businesses incorporate AI.
Strategic partnerships are a great way to strengthen individual businesses and create community. Rock Lititz is a great example of this. The complex of buildings located just outside town has become a mini Silicon Valley for the live entertainment industry. Like so many in Lancaster County, the company’s beginnings were humble.
Though Gene and Roy Clair officially launched their touring audio company in 1966, they got their start 11 years earlier when their father bought them a small PA system. The brothers used the system for Easter egg hunts and sock hops while saving their earnings for more and better equipment. Clair Bros. got its big break when Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons performed at Franklin & Marshall College, where Gene worked the sound during concerts and other performances at the college.
Though the company’s excellence and innovation have taken the brothers all over the globe, their home base is still in Lititz. They credit the work ethic of the county as one of the reasons for not moving the operation to a large metropolitan area.
In 2014, Clair Global partnered with Tait Towers, a stage design and automation company, to launch Rock Lititz. Dozens of companies that support the live entertainment industry make Rock Lititz their home. Yet it all began in a garage on Main Street. Many businesses in our community got their start this way. Not all have achieved the success of Gene and Roy Clair, but their story is echoed throughout the county.
Engle Printing & Publishing Co., Inc. (EPC) was founded in 1954, (with printing initially done) in the basement of Alvin and Pauline Engle’s Mount Joy home. With 70 years in the printing and publishing industry, EPC has seen its share of economies, innovations, and cultural shifts. While we welcome new digital technologies, we strive to maintain the foundation on which EPC was built - faith, family, community, and hard work that leads to a quality product. Since becoming a publisher in 1959, helping nonprofits to get their messages out has been the focus of our
community papers. Our feature writers craft articles showcasing the needs, events, and stories of these organizations. Along with supporting small businesses, this is the heart of what we do at EPC.
Small towns are the lifeblood of our economy. When small businesses succeed, everyone’s quality of life improves. Our chambers of commerce provide leadership, networking, and marketing opportunities to Main Street.
“Being part of the Chamber gives me an opportunity to give back to the community that I’ve lived in and worked in for many years. I enjoy getting to know people and network with other business owners. You can always learn from someone else,” said Keith Lehner, owner of Oola Bowls in Intercourse and Lancaster.
Bringing visitors and residents together to experience the friendly atmosphere of our downtowns is crucial. “MJCOC (Mount Joy Area Chamber of Commerce) hosts several community events throughout the year, including Music in Memorial Park, the annual chicken barbecue, Spooktacular, Visits with Santa, and Mount Joy Minnie (Groundhog Day),” remarked Michele Emenheiser, MJCOC executive director.
In Manheim, embracing the town’s heritage and building upon it has led to the growth of the Manheim Area Chamber of Commerce (MACOC). “For decades, and even centuries, Manheim has been known for glasswork, farming tradition, football prowess, and the auto auction,” explained Kristie Schmid, MACOC executive director. “With the recent addition of artists, entrepreneurs, restaurateurs, and winemakers, we have even more to share.”
While they share many similarities and challenges, our chambers champion the unique qualities that set their towns apart. When asked about the role of the Southern Lancaster Chamber of Commerce, board member Ina Bunnell responded, “We exist to create opportunities for members to build successful businesses and enhance the quality of life in the Southern End.”
Communities thrive when residents and businesses work together. While it’s good that we bring attention to shopping local on Small Business Saturday, small businesses succeed when we make an effort all year long.
As residents of Lancaster County, we are blessed to have access to fresh produce and meats, first-class theater productions, a city with a diverse restaurant scene, and great schools for our children. We also have a legion of dedicated volunteers who pack meals for underprivileged children, so they have healthy food on the weekend; mentors who offer career guidance to youths; and people who donate handcrafted items to sell at the Hospice & Community Care Auction. That is what Lancaster County is and why we’re so proud to be part of it.
by Wendy Royal
Since Lancaster County Magazine’s inception, our publication has represented Lancaster culture through regular columns and feature stories that address the food, homes, gardens, small towns, natural beauty, art, personalities, history and events that define the county. We are grateful to the Lancaster business community and each of our readers for their continuous support, enthusiasm and generosity of spirit over the last 36 years … and onward into the future.
HEATHER VALUDES, CCE President & CEO
Lancaster Chamber
Lancaster County is the pinnacle of tradition and progress. Living and working here gives unique firsthand experience with the dynamic interplay between legacy and innovation within our vibrant business community. And this balance is not only the cornerstone of our economic vitality, but also the driving force that pushes us toward a future full of possibilities.
Lancaster’s business community is steeped in history. For nearly 300 years, our county has been a hub for commerce, shaped by resilient and aspirational entrepreneurs. From the early days of agriculture and manufacturing to the rise of retail and service industries, Lancaster has always been a place where businesses thrive on the foundation of hard work, integrity, and a commitment to the local community.
The legacy of Lancaster is not just found in the bricks and mortar of our historic buildings or the long-standing family businesses that have been passed down through generations. It is embedded in the values that have guided our business leaders for centuries. These values - community, stewardship, and sustainability - are core to the economic and social fabric of Lancaster.
One of the most enduring aspects of Lancaster’s business legacy is the emphasis on community. Our businesses understand deeply that their success is intrinsically linked to the well-being of the broader community. This perspective has fostered a culture of collaboration and mutual support that is displayed through community giving, investments in infrastructure, and job creation.
While legacy provides our foundation, it is innovation that drives us forward. In today’s rapidly changing world, the ability to adapt and innovate is more crucial than ever. Lancaster’s business community embraces new technologies and business models that position us for future success.
Innovation is not about abandoning our roots; it is about building on them. Businesses throughout Lancaster County are finding ways to integrate modern technology with traditional practices, creating products and services that honor our heritage while meeting the demands of contemporary markets. This approach can be seen in the way local manufacturers are adopting advanced automation and robotics to increase efficiency and quality, how our agricultural sector is leveraging data analytics and precision farming techniques to enhance productivity and sustainability, and how the health care sector is utilizing virtual reality and telehealth to improve patient experience and engagement.
The rise of the digital economy is also omnipresent. E-commerce, digital marketing, and social media have opened new avenues for growth, allowing our businesses to reach customers far beyond our community. Moreover, the adoption of cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and data analytics has transformed how our companies operate, enabling better informed decisions, optimizing operations, and delivering personalized experiences to customers and clients.
The Lancaster Chamber, a countywide chamber of commerce, is proud to support its business community in navigating the complex landscape of legacy and innovation. For over 150 years, the Lancaster Chamber has played a critical role in fostering this balance by providing resources, education, and networking opportunities that empower businesses to innovate while staying true to their roots.
Through various programs and initiatives, the Chamber helps businesses understand and leverage the latest technologies, trends, and best practices. It also provides platforms for
businesses and leaders to share their stories, celebrate their heritage, and learn from each other. By facilitating collaboration and knowledge sharing, the Chamber helps ensure that innovation is not a disruptive force, but a natural extension of the community’s legacy.
Further, the Lancaster Chamber is a pro-business champion, advocating for policies that support both legacy and innovation. It works closely with local government, educational institutions, and community stakeholders to create an environment that encourages entrepreneurship, attracts investments, and fosters sustainable growth. Whether it’s through promoting workforce development, supporting small businesses, or advocating for infrastructure improvements, the Lancaster Chamber is committed to helping businesses in the community thrive in a way that honors the past while embracing the future.
What makes Lancaster County unique is the way its business community has managed the balance of legacy and innovation. Rather than seeing these as opposing forces, which is the natural tendency, the Chamber recognizes and gets to see firsthand how they can be complementary. The county’s history provides a sense of identity and continuity, while its innovation ensures that it remains competitive and relevant.
Looking to the future, the relationship between legacy and innovation will continue to shape Lancaster’s business community. The challenges and opportunities - whether shifting demographics, evolving consumer behaviors, or cultivating positive change - will require businesses to draw on their legacies while boldly pursuing innovation.
The next generation of Lancaster County business leaders will inherit a rich tradition of community focus. They will also inherit a world that is vastly different from the one their predecessors knew. Yet there is confidence that they will rise to the occasion, just as those who came before them did. By staying true to its values and embracing the possibilities, Lancaster County’s business community will be in a position to not only survive but thrive, continuing to be a beacon of economic vitality and progress for generations to come.
Legacy and innovation are twin pillars that support the Lancaster business community. Moving forward, let us celebrate our rich heritage, embrace opportunities for innovation, and work together to ensure that Lancaster remains a place where businesses - and the people they serve - can thrive.
To learn more about how the Lancaster Chamber is supporting legacy and innovation in the community, visit www.Lancaster Chamber.com.
AtGood Samaritan Services, we believe that everyone deserves a compassionate response, and for more than 22 years, we’ve stayed true to this mission. What started as a small men’s shelter in Phoenixville has blossomed into an organization that now serves more than 800 men, women, and children who are experiencing a housing crisis annually across Lancaster and Chester counties. With five locations—Phoenixville, Ephrata, Lancaster city, Coatesville, and Kennett Square—we now provide more than 100 short-term housing
beds and, more importantly, the opportunity for hope and healing.
Beyond our short-term housing, we work with hundreds of individuals and families in the community each day, helping them stay in their homes and avoid the crisis of homelessness. Through prevention services like financial counseling, personalized case management, and rental assistance, our program aims to empower those we serve and prevent the need for shelter altogether, while providing tools for them to maintain long-term stability.
Our growth has been driven by truly listening to the unique needs of the people we serve. We’ve always believed in the power of building strong relationships, and that commitment has allowed us to expand our services in a holistic way, far beyond just providing housing. At Good Sam, we walk alongside individuals and families, offering not only a safe place to stay but also financial guidance, housing assistance, access to free therapy, and friendship. We see every person as deserving of dignity and respect, and we strive to meet them where they are, helping them build a foundation for a better future.
Our unique program allows us to be flexible and innovative in our approach. Whether it’s a family navigating financial hardship, an individual overcoming personal struggles, or someone experiencing homelessness for the first time, we’re here to help. Our compassionate staff and volunteers work every day to ensure that those we serve feel supported, cared for, and seen.
We also know that we can’t do this work alone. Our impact is rooted in the incredible partnerships we’ve built with local businesses, churches, community members, and other service agencies. Together, we can help people not just survive but truly thrive.
Looking ahead, we have big dreams! With compassion at the heart of everything we do, we’ll continue growing and serving, striving to make sure no one in our community is left behind. We’re excited for the journey ahead and grateful for every person who walks it with us.
Learn how to get involved at www. goodsamservices.org!
by Nick Gould
BY CATHY MOLITORIS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JORDAN BUSH
Over the past seven decades, Engle Printing & Publishing Co., Inc. (EPC) has grown from one couple producing one paper to a company that employs 150 people, distributes 17 community newspapers and multiple specialty publications to close to 200,000 people, and provides printing services for numerous clients. Although the scope of the business has changed, one thing has remained constant: community.
“We want to make that connection to our local merchants and to our community members,” said Charlie Engle, company president.
As EPC marks 70 years in business this year, Charlie and his daughter Jocelyn Engle looked back on what started in 1954 in the basement of Alvin and Pauline Engle’s Mount Joy home.
“My dad bought his own little press and put it in our basement,” Charlie said of Alvin. “He was working full time in the printing business, but he always wanted to do his own thing.”
In 1959, EPC purchased its first community publication, the Merchandiser, and by 1960, Alvin had quit his day job to focus on the new business full time. It soon became a family enterprise, with Alvin and Pauline selling ads while their children - Charlie, Audrey, and Dennyhelped where they could.
Charlie recalled the tedious task of cutting and hand-gluing address labels on the paper as well as folding each of the newspapers by hand. When Alvin died unexpectedly in 1971, the family faced a decision.
“My mother came to us and said, ‘There are some people who are interested in buying the business,’” Charlie recalled. “The three children
all agreed, and we all said no to selling. We knew we could do this.”
Charlie became company president, with Denny serving as vice president, positions both men still hold today. Audrey also dedicated herself to the company before her death in 2018. Pauline continued to work for EPC well into her 70s. She passed away in 2020. Today, there are also four members of the third generation of Engles at EPC, with several fourth-generation family members helping out sporadically.
Outside printing is the bread and butter of the business, with production running 24 hours a day, five days a week. Along with continuing to publish the Merchandiser and other community papers, including the Pennysaver, Advertiser, and Community Courier, EPC produces local Chamber guides, Farm Show premium books and more.
Seventy years of business has included ups and downs for the company, Charlie said. Challenges have ranged from competition to rising costs to navigating the pandemic. Through it all, EPC has remained focused on its original mission: serving the community.
“Our family and the company have been blessed,” Charlie said. “Since we’ve been blessed, we want to bless others. We started a foundation in the early ’90s, and that supports a variety of local programs.”
EPC publications focus on telling the good news happening at nonprofit organizations, schools and local businesses, and that’s more important than ever, Jocelyn said.
“We are surrounded by bad news,” she said. “Every time we turn on the TV, every time we open our phone, it’s upsetting. It brings us down. There are so many good things happening in our community, and we want to shine a light on them.”
Asked about the secret to EPC’s longevity, Charlie didn’t hesitate to answer. “We’ve had good people,” he said simply. “We have so many longtime employees, some who have been here for 35 or 40 years.”
As for the next 70 years, Charlie and Jocelyn envision a bright future. The company is transitioning into providing digital solutions for clients, while continuing to support local businesses and tell positive stories through its community newspapers and online at www.townlively.com.
“I love the legacy my grandfather started,” Jocelyn said. “I never met him, but I know his goal and his mission was to support the community, and we won’t lose that connection to the community. We will continue to be hyperlocal, providing our advertisers with options to target just their region and news specifically about your school district and local community. We’re focused on right here, where we live, and all the good things that are happening.”
dry goods to his family and neighbors in East Earl Township. Harry bought merchandise at the auctions of Philadelphia and brought it back to Lancaster County to sell at bargain prices. By 1959, the business had outgrown the garage, so Harry bought a nearby property along Weaverland Road and built a store on it. His businesses continued to grow, and gradually he added hard goods to the selection.
After Harry Good’s death in 1967, two sons-in-law took over the store. In 1973, they decided to relocate the store to a property along Route 23 beside a grocery store called Shady Maple. The store continued to grow, with several expansions over the years, becoming a department store with apparel, fabrics, hardware, home goods, toys and games, and much more.
As the East Earl location grew, Good’s Store branched out to establish stores in other communities. A store was started in Peach Bottom in 1985, relocating to Quarryville in 1988. Additonal stores opened their doors in Schaefferstown in 1955 and in Ephrata in 2003. The company website, goodsstores.com, became an online store in 2017.
Now owned and operated by the third and fourth generations of the Good family, Good’s Store, Inc. still maintains Harry Good’s vision to provide the neighborhood with good merchandise at great prices. Good’s Store continues to offer a wide selection of clothing and shoes for the entire family, a full line of hardware, lawn and garden, items for the kitchen and home, sporting goods, games, toys, and gifts. Spanning more than six decades and multiple generations, Good’s Store seeks to serve the community according to Christian principles, to God’s honor and glory. The owners and staff feel blessed to have this opportunity.
Healthy feet play a critical role in a body’s overall well-being, and the right shoes are an important factor in the health of feet. It’s that type of attention to detail and personal service that has become The Inside Track’s business trademark.
“Our goal is to get you into a proper-fitting shoe,” said Ryan Amway, one of the three coowners of The Inside Track. “All these shoes are of a higher quality, and they have support built in. We believe there’s a perfect shoe for everyone.”
The Inside Track specializes in a wide variety of items related to feet, including orthotics, inserts, socks, apparel and activewear. But 70% of its focus is on shoes - top brands of sandals and sneakers.
“We’re not just trying to sell you something,” said Ryan of The Inside Track’s customer-focused approach. “We’re trying to sell you things you need. We try to have the majority of popular colors and styles in stock, and if we don’t, we can get them in a few days at no extra charge.”
Ryan’s father, Mark, a celebrated distance runner, took over operation of The Inside Track’s original location at 1659 Lititz Pike, Lancaster, in 1978. Now, the business also operates stores at 6301 Grayson Road, Harrisburg; 6200 Carlisle Pike, Mechanicsburg; and 1026 Lititz Pike, Lititz.
Two years ago, Ryan and his brother, Tyler, along with their dad’s longtime manager, Zach Valentin, purchased the business from Mark.
“When my dad bought the store, there was no real place where you could find an assortment of higher-end athletic shoes,” said Ryan. “The need for a specific type of footwear was big. We’ve just kind of expanded on it, but
we’ve stayed true to the vision. We’re trying to give people a reason to shop in person for shoes. We’re not any more expensive than anything you could find online, but we offer better personal service.”
For additional information, go to www. insidetrackpa.com.
Musser Supply, Inc. 1605 Lancaster Avenue, Columbia, PA 17512 717-684-2243 mussersupply.com
John Herr’s Village Market, Inc. 25 Manor Avenue, Millersville, PA 17551-1199 717-872-5457 www.johnherrsvillagemarket.com
Strasburg Pike, Lancaster, PA 17602 5303 East Trindle Road, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055 2084 Fruitville Pike, Lancaster, PA 17601 717-299-2351 | www.lhbrubakers.com | PA071323
John Weidman & Sons, Inc.
Heating & Cooling 541 East Main Street (rear), Ephrata, PA 17522 717-733-4161
Jim Mack’s Ice Cream Route 462 - West of Columbia in Hellam 717-252-2013 jimmacksicecream.com
Schreiber Center For Pediatric Development 625 Community Way, Lancaster, PA 17603 717-393-0425 www.schreiberpediatric.org
Kleen-Rite Car Wash 506 South 16th Street, Columbia, PA 17512 717-684-3999 kleen-ritecorp.com
J. Grove & Son, Inc. 1219 Manheim Pike, Lancaster, PA 717-393-0859 info@georgejgrove.com GeorgeJGrove.com
GRMitchell, Inc.
14 Beaver Valley Pike, Willow Street, PA 717-464-2999 GRMitchell.com
Hill Orchards & Farm Market 400 Long Lane, Lancaster, PA 17603 717-872-9311 www.cherryhillorchards.com
Paving, LLC
Brooklawn Road, Lititz, PA 17543 717-665-2558 www.brooklawnpaving.com
Hess Auction Group
768 Graystone Road, Manheim, PA 17545
717-664-5238
www.hessauctiongroup.com
717-354-5342
www.newhollandgaragedoor.com
Divine Consign
37 Market Square, Manheim, PA 17545
717-665-4417
Tuesday-Friday 12pm-5pm, Saturday 9am-2pm
Hearing and Ear Care Center, LLC
806 W. Main St., Mount Joy | 717-653-6300
200 Schneider Dr., Suite 1, Lebanon | 717-274-3851
lghartmanhear@gmail. com www.hearingandearcare.com
Sauder Excavating 717-333-4792
sauderexcavating@gmail.com sauderexcavating.com
R110537
Scoops Ice Cream & Grille 312 Primrose Lane, Mountville, PA 17554 717-285-2055
info@scoopsgrille.com | www.scoopsgrille.com
Best Price Propane of Columbia, LLC
322 Cherry Street, Columbia, PA 17512 717-340-6009
Bestpricepropane@comcast.net Over 10 Years Experience
Bootleg Antiques & Oddities 135 Bridge Street Columbia, PA 17512 717-684-0009 www.bootlegantiques.net
Elizabethtown Kung Fu Center 160 S. Poplar Street, Elizabethtown 717-312-7909 www.etownkungfu.com
BY FRANCINE FULTON
While national and international news can be found readily on social media, it is the job of community newspapers to inform the public about local news. Local newspapers are committed to informing the public about positive people in the community and sharing information about local events that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Community newspapers highlight service organizations, school students, historical societies and businesses, and, most importantly, they shine a spotlight on ordinary people who do extraordinary things.
People still turn to newspapers when looking for local news. According to a study by America’s Newspapers called the 2023 Local Newspaper Study, 5,000 people who were contacted by an independent research firm were polled about their newspaper reading habits. According to the findings, eight out of 10 Americans read print or digital newspaper content every month. The study also found that 78% of newspaper readers are under the age of 65, which may come as a surprise to people who suggest that newspapers are only for older readers. Also, the study reported that 71% of newspaper readers have lived in their communities for five years or more and 61% are homeowners. These findings seem to indicate that people are very interested in their local communities and information about happenings, people and businesses where they live.
Such is the case with residents of southcentral Pennsylvania. “Keeping up with your community events creates a stronger awareness of the place where you live, work and raise your family,” commented Kathy Patterson, secretary of the Christiana Historical Society. “Engaging in these activities make stronger connections with your neighbors and safer neighborhoods. Local papers are an important piece of that.”
“Local news is so important. It not only lets you know what’s going on in your area, but it also contributes toward a sense of community,” added Robin McKenna, president of the Parkesburg Lions Club. “I love to see someone’s picture in the paper that I know or read about a successful event that took place or see a Boy Scout became an Eagle Scout or read about the accomplishments of (local) sports teams, learn about organizations doing good deeds in our community, etc.”
Local nonprofit organizations regularly utilize community newspapers to promote their fundraising events, to recruit volunteers and to send out information about the services that they provide. Doing so has been known to attract more participants than just advertising on social media.
Robbyn Kehoe, director of the Atglen Public Library, utilizes the Community Courier to advertise the library’s many community programs offered for patrons of all ages. “Many of our new friends in Monday Meetups and adult programs saw it first in the Courier,” she stated. “We have our following of regular customers, but new customers learning about us for the first time might not know to check our website or social media.”
Other readers of the paper enjoy its promotion of small-town events and news about Scout troops, athletes and local school students. Parents also enjoy seeing their children’s photos in print.
“The Community Courier is very nostalgic and (offers) small-town good-vibes,” said Joanna Kiene Bentley, a reader from Chester County. “(It only prints) good news. I love the local coverage especially when my kids were little. It’s very exciting to see a picture of your kids (in the paper).”
Stuart Wells of Birdsboro, another reader of the Community Courier, added that he appreciates reading uplifting stories. “It’s so good to read about positive news instead of only crime, disaster, strife and heartbreak,” he said.
“I love that (the paper) highlights actual local news,” added Erika Lombardo, a reader from Parkesburg.
Other benefits of community papers include stories on local events and activities, such as festivals, craft shows and concerts, many of which offer free admission to families looking for inexpensive venues for entertainment.
“We definitely use our local newspapers to let the public know about our events and programs and find it is very useful,” said Dawn Ekdahl, executive director of Historic Poole Forge in Narvon. “Social media has perhaps replaced newspaper reading and promotions for much of the country, but locally with the Amish and Mennonite community, it is still very effective - especially the newspapers that are delivered to each mailbox.”
There are benefits to the business community as well, since community papers provide information about networking opportunities and offer opportunities for businesses to advertise their goods and services. Newspapers also offer classified ad sections, where readers can find quality new and used merchandise.
Many feature stories are inspirational. Volunteers with local animal rescues often share updates of animals that have been rescued or adopted thanks to newspaper coverage. “We are so grateful for the exposure that the animals featured get from articles,” stated Mary Bauer, president of Lucky Dawg Animal Rescue (LDAR). “There have been several adoptions, and the most memorable one was Dakota and David.”
Bauer is referring to David Tillman, a Vietnam veteran who was homeless and living out of his car with his dog, Dakota, when LDAR stepped in to assist with fostering Dakota until Tillman’s new apartment was ready. The Community Courier did an article on the pair, as well as a follow-up when Tillman passed away, helping to get the word out that Dakota was available for adoption. An older gentleman read the writeup and immediately submitted an adoption application for Dakota after which the dog found its permanent home.
“What makes this story magical is that Dakota’s new owner is also named David, (and) he served our country in the U.S. (armed) forces. His dog who had previously passed away
was (also) named Dakota,” Bauer reported at the time of the adoption. “We can only imagine that David (Tillman) played a role in orchestrating this adoption and will continue to watch over his best friend from above.”
Bauer reported that other cats and dogs have been adopted after their photos appeared in the paper. “Adoptions are down and the amount of animals in need are in the rise, so it is so important to get the dogs and cats in front of the public,” she added.
“It is absolutely so important to advertise anywhere you can in animal rescue, especially in a local paper for individuals who do not have or use social media, which is still a large percentage of the world,” added Calla Gibson, founder of Calla’s Critter Rescue. “I can’t put a finger on how many of our kitties were adopted because of the paper, but the paper created followers, which created post shares of our adoptables, which inevitably created approved adopters who took them home. It’s a whole wonderful cycle.”
Sometimes a local news story will provide the motivation that people need to volunteer with local organizations. “From the standpoint of nonprofits, I’d say newspaper publicity plays a special role in advancing their causes. Information in newspapers can provide a more in-depth look at an organization and its work in the community,” said Sherry Thompsen, program coordinator for Compeer Chester County. “These stories often last longer than those on social media. Features and articles in papers, sometimes with photos, can also be retrieved at a later date and further shared. Also, publicizing a program in newspapers allows nonprofits to target people in a specific geographic area where volunteers might be needed.”
Community members may also feel proud when they hear about someone they know or a familiar organization or business doing something good in the community.
Newspaper articles, especially those that feature children, often wind up displayed on the family’s refrigerator - something that you cannot do with a social media post.
For over three generations, L.H. Brubaker Appliances and Water Treatment has been a community cornerstone, providing top-quality appliances and water treatment solutions with a personal touch. Founded by the late Donald H. Frank, the family-owned business has grown from a small local shop on Strasburg Pike into a trusted name, throughout Central PA with additional locations in Mechanicsburg and Fruitville Pike in Lancaster. Despite its growth, the business has never lost sight of its values: integrity, customer service, and a commitment to excellence.
“As a third-generation business, we are proud to carry forward a legacy that was built on strong family values and a deep connection to our community. Each generation has brought its own set of skills and perspectives, while remaining true to the principles that have made us successful,” commented Andrew Frank, owner and vice president.
Don Frank Jr., owner and president, stated, “Innovation is at the core of our business. Our commitment to staying on the cutting edge means that you will find the latest products in our store, backed by the same personalized service that has defined our business for decades
with competitive pricing giving you more value for your dollar. We continuously adapt to the changing needs of our customers to provide the best shopping experience, from updating our showrooms to ensuring our staff has the best training.”
When asked what it’s like as a sister working alongside two brothers, Lacy See, owner and CFO, remarked, “The trust and understanding we have developed over the years make our collaboration strong. The shared goals and values that come from being family members help us stay aligned and committed to those goals. Our customers are at the heart of everything we do, with our dedicated team as the driving force behind delivering an exceptional customer service experience.”
As the owners look to the future, they remain dedicated to honoring their family’s legacy while embracing the innovations that will carry them into the next generation.
For more information about LH Brubaker Appliances and Water Treatment, readers may call 717-299-2351 (Strasburg Pike), 717-796-0150 (Mechanicsburg), or 717-945-5851 (Fruitville Pike); visit lhbrubakers.com; follow lh_brubaker on Instagram and LH Brubaker Appliances Inc. on Facebook; or check the business out on YouTube.
Downtown Mount Joy offers numerous local shopping opportunities.
BY ANN MEAD ASH
Almost every decision we make has a ripple effect – influencing those around us and maybe even those far beyond our inner circle. That concept is especially true when making a purchase.
The choice to shop locally means many things. For the consumer, it means personal service from someone you may know who cares about the quality of the product and customer satisfaction. For the greater community, it means keeping funds in the area where they benefit employees and neighbors and their children – especially those in need. The choice also helps to grow the community while at the same time keeping face-to-face relationships front and center.
In southcentral Pennsylvania, we are blessed with an abundance of goods that are produced and sold locally. That fact gives retailers more quality choices when stocking their shelves and consumers a variety of items that were sourced nearby. “Shopping locally often means shopping for products that are locally made or in local demand,” noted H. Daniel Zimmerman, marketing manager with Good’s Store, which has several locations in the county. John Hess of the Hess Auction Group in Manheim agreed, pointing out that more than 85% of the products his company sells are purchased locally.
Kristie Schmid, executive director of the Manheim Area Chamber of Commerce, said that shoppers need not sacrifice variety when exploring the local market. “We know shoppers have many choices,” she stated. “Manheim has more to offer than ever before – retail shops, art studios, restaurants, wineries, and more.”
Merchants who are known in their community care about how their businesses are viewed by area residents. After all, it is their name and reputation that are on the line for both the goods they sell and the service they provide. “I see the quality (small business owners) put into their business and the products they produce,” noted Rebecca Wright, committee member with the Columbia Movers and Shakers Society. “By knowing the business owners and their partners, I’m able to request special products, ask questions and get a personal touch while knowing I am helping my friends and supporting my local economy.”
Personal service is a rarity in this day. Investing in one’s own community means getting to know business owners and their employees and building trust and a relationship with each purchase. Wright mentioned that being greeted by name always makes her shopping experience better, and Zimmerman added that interacting with a person is important for a variety of reasons. “This interpersonal aspect is a welcome opportunity to speak, listen, learn, laugh, and encourage another human being,” he said. Shopping locally is also good for the surrounding community in myriad ways. Daisy Pagan, vice president with the Merchants Association of Columbia, pointed out that shopping local is more than a trend. “It’s a powerful way to strengthen our community (because) you’re not only keeping more money circulating within our local economy, but also fostering a sense of connection and pride in our town,” she stated.
Pagan went on to point out that when funds stay in the community, the ripple effect benefits those in need in that community. “Purchases help local fundraising efforts – schools and clubs come to local businesses first. … By thinking local first, residents can make a meaningful impact on their friends and neighbors, ensuring that our community continues to thrive.”
Michele Emenheiser, executive director of the Mount Joy Area Chamber of Commerce, has seen this firsthand. “Local businesses are more likely to support local nonprofits,” she stated. “In Mount Joy, recent examples include downtown businesses hosting a back-to-school drive for RAISE28 and a food drive for Mount Joy Helping Services,” Emenheiser pointed out. “By choosing to shop local and support local, you’re helping to build a unique and vibrant Mount Joy, making it a better place to live, work, play, and shop.”
Strong communities are joined by shared values and goals, but also by having residents who can live close to where they both work and shop. Employees of local businesses reap rewards when area residents shop where they live. “Employees benefit by having jobs that can help them support themselves and their families,” noted Zimmerman. “Those employees often live and shop locally as well, spreading their own wealth back into the community.”
But the rewards are more than monetary, according to Zimmerman. “Our employees benefit from interacting with other people in the community,” he said. “Sometimes what begins as a business visit turns into friendly acquaintance with repeated shopping.”
Elizabethtown Area Chamber of Commerce executive director Denise Grove agreed, stating, “Local shopping brings a sense of community as people build relationships with local business owners.”
Emily Allen, executive director with Venture Lititz, sees the local market from more than one viewpoint. “When you shop local in Lititz, you’re not just buying a product. You’re supporting a dream, a neighbor, and the heartbeat of our community,” she noted. Allen added that area merchants bring their own uniqueness to their businesses. “Shopping local in Lititz … is a vote for creativity, community, and the special charm that makes Lititz home,” she said. Pointing out that local shoppers invest in the future of the town, Allen concluded, “Every purchase you make in Lititz helps keep our town vibrant, unique, and full of life. Local businesses are the threads that weave our community together.”
According to Pagan, the dollar spent in one’s hometown has value beyond money. “When you choose to support local businesses in Columbia (and Lancaster County), you’re not only keeping more money circulating within our local economy but also fostering a sense of connection and pride in our town,” she stated.
eateries, art galleries, and more grace the streets of downtown Lancaster.
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The Lancaster Chamber has been dedicated to helping businesses across all of Lancaster County position themselves for success for over 150 years. Congratulations to Engle Printing & Publishing Co. as they celebrate 70 years of serving our County by providing truly local news, elevating stories about our businesses, and highlighting our community. We are proud to share a common vision for Lancaster County that fosters a community where businesses and residents alike can thrive!
connections that will help you, your team, and your business build relationships and form valued partnerships that support your business growth.
• Various Networking Opportunities
• Peer-to-Peer Roundtables
resources that help you stay up-to-date in your industry and reach your business goals.
• Competitive Wage Insights with our Wage & Policy Report
• Business Tools such as job board, mailing list, sample employee handbook, and more.
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• Various Advertising Opportunities
• Professional Development & Trainings
• Events & Programs
(and More) are Here!
• Many varieties of delicious tree-ripened apples for Fall
• Delicious & health y fall crop vegetables available
• Fresh-baked apple cider donuts, fresh-pressed apple cider, apple pies, dumplings and lots more!
• Garden Center bursting In fall with mums, pumpkins, straw bales & more - and seasonal favorites thru the year.
• Shelves filled with mouth-watering jarred goods, salsas, jams & jellies, butters, preserves and honey
• Baked good treats include scrumptious cookies, whoopie pies, fruit pies & more!
Since 1970, we are the largest pick-your-own-fruit farm market in Lancaster. Stop by and pick your own fruit, pumpkins & sunflowers (in season). Enjoy ready-picked fruits. Choose from many gift baskets.
