Susquehanna Style September 2023

The Brockie Mansion

CLASSIC ARCHITECTURE MEETS CHIC DESIGN

DREAM HOME The Issue

What’s your Life Lived Forward?

Kay Shanaman has a zest for life. She has always been engaged in her community and open to new experiences. At Willow Valley Communities, she’s found plenty of ways to continue her active lifestyle. “Whatever you’re looking for, it’s here,” says Kay.

With more than 100 clubs, classes, and groups to join, Kay has found easy connections over shared interests with her neighbors. Whether it’s ballroom dancing or the computer club, the possibilities for camaraderie and a happy, healthy life are nearly endless.

With the details taken care of, residents like Kay can make each day exactly what they choose. “This is your life,” she says, “and you create your own reality.”

Find your Life Lived Forward.

Explore Willow Valley Communities today.

Love your home loan as much as your home.

Whether you’re buying, building, or refinancing, our experienced lenders will help you every step of the way— from house hunting to housewarming—so you get a loan that’s just right for you.

CONTENTS

DEPARTMENTS

8 TALK OF THE TOWN

Our favorite things about our featured town, Ambler

SHOP IN STYLE

Revamp your office space

12

10 PEOPLE & PLACES

Get and stay tidy with Lisbet Byler, owner of So Organized

15

LIVE WELL

Better sleep is on the horizon with these pillow and mattress tips

18

FOODIE FINDS

Nosh on farm-to-table cuisine and sip on carefully sourced spirits, wine, and beer at Passerine

22

DISH IT UP

Think inside the bento box with these gourmet lunch ideas

48 FIVE THINGS

Five Festivals to support the arts

FEATURES

28

DREAM HOME

Take a tour of a restored landmark mansion, the Brockie, in York County

ON THE COVER

The Brockie Mansion in York

Photography by Kinna Shaffer

Home Design for the Ages

We are thrilled to present Susquehanna Style's much-anticipated annual Dream Homes issue. This edition is all about stunning architecture and interior design, and we are honored to invite you into the extraordinary home of local designer Gabriella Messina. Prepare to be inspired by her beautifully restored Georgian mansion, the Brockie, in the heart of York County. Immerse yourself in a world of chic design that is both classic and modern.

With the end of summer and the arrival of the fall season, we shift our focus to the arts and cultural events that commence in the Valley. In this month’s Five Things, we have thoughtfully curated five fall festivals that allow you to support the arts while experiencing the richness of our local culture. From lively music festivals to art exhibitions, these events are bound to enrich your creative side and kick off your autumn adventures right (more to come on autumn adventures in our October issue, so stay tuned!).

As we embrace the fresh start of this new season, we recognize that many of you spend a significant portion of time in your office space, whether it's in the comfort of your home or out-of-home office. To freshen up your workspace, check out Shop in Style on page 10 for inspo to revamp your desk and office supplies. Discover how small changes can make a world of difference, enhancing your mindset and workflow.

For those busy office days outside the home, we offer you options to step up your packed-lunch game! In Dish It Up, explore a gourmet spin on preparing a bento box lunch. Elevate your midday meal with a variety of flavors and fresh ingredients that will invigorate your taste buds and fuel your creativity.

Before signing off, all of us at Susquehanna Style want to thank the community, from businesses to our readers, who supported our annual Best of the Susquehanna Valley event! We had a wonderful time celebrating with you, and look forward to hearing from all of you again when we kick-off Best of the Susquehanna Valley in 2024.

Wishing you a season filled with joy, inspiration, and endless possibilities.

Theresa Stoddard Associate Publisher | tstoddard@susquehannastyle.com

PRESIDENT/CEO

Paul Prass

VICE PRESIDENT/COO

Lisa Prass

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Theresa Stoddard

DIRECTOR OF CREATIVE SERVICES

Mike Matuczinski

ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES

Kate Hunter, Sue Ottenheimer, Sherry Smith

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Madison Eckert

MARKETING & EVENTS COORDINATOR

Madison DeWispelaere

INTERNS

Lexie Kauffman, Bella Ortley-Guthrie

CONTRIBUTORS

Rachel Curry, Karen Hendricks, Diane McCormick, Diana Smedley, Carrie Lyn Strong

PHOTOGRAPHER

Karlo Gesner

PROOFREADER

Erin Cramer

ACCOUNTING

Donna Bachman, Olena Ovchinnikova, Sarah Varano

CONTACT US:

Editorial: Send your compliments, comments, story ideas, and suggestions to: Editor, Susquehanna Style (ISSN# 1540-0875), 202 Butler Avenue, Suite 102, Lancaster, PA 17601; or tstoddard@susquehannastyle.com.

Subscriptions and Backorders: For new subscriptions, changes of address, or questions about an existing subscription, call 800-896-1392, Mon-Fri, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m., EST. Annual subscriptions (11 issues/year) are $12. Postmaster, please send returns to: Susquehanna Style, PO Box 293142, Kettering, OH 45429.

Advertising: To request a media kit or to receive other information on advertising, call 717-581-6550, fax 1-717-581-6552, or visit www.SusquehannaStyle.com.

Staff directory at www.SusquehannaStyle.com or call 717-581-6550.

IN

WITH: © 2023

PHOTO BY WILLOW VALLEY COMMUNITIES

TIDY UP YOUR SPACE

Go behind the scenes with Lisbet Byler of So Organized.

Read more on page 12.

Lifestyle

THE TOWN OF

Ambler

BY BELLA ORTLEY-GUTHRIE

PAPER DOLLS

Before your evening plans, let your afternoon agenda be finding a stylish outfit for the night at Paper Dolls. As one of the many boutiques on Butler Ave, Paper Dolls stands out with its bright pink walls and for carrying Liverpool denim. The store rotates its brands each season to fit every shopper’s needs while still supplying clothing with a bright, youthful, and fashionable style. Some of their staple brands include By Together, Diba True Shoes, and Lucy Paris.

7 W Butler Ave, Ambler, PA paperdollsambler.com

ANTIQUE GARDEN COTTAGE

Just off Butler Ave, Antique Garden Cottage is a hidden treasure trove with one-of-a-kind antiques and repurposed furniture. Named Montco Happening's Best Home Decor Store in 2021, the boutique provides a unique shopping experience with seasonal gifts, jewelry, and furniture. In addition to their repurposed tables and chairs, Antique Garden Cottage carries collections from brands like Naked Bee, Black Crow Candle Company, and Hayden Geurds, who makes handcrafted cutting boards.

22 N Main St, Ambler, PA antiquegardencottage.com

AMBLER THEATER

A local treasure, Ambler Theater attracts local and tourist attention with its historic charm. With an ornate neon tower sign, the theater makes a name for itself as Ambler’s cinema house. While it originally opened in 1928, in 2001, Ambler Theater became a non-profit organization. Since then, the community has banded together to raise money to restore the theater as a downtown community space. With three different theaters, you can book a ticket for a matinee or late-night showing of a foreign, art, independent, or mainstream film.

108 E Butler Ave, Ambler, PA amblertheater.org

PURE SPA

Looking to practice some self-care? With 16 years in the business, Pure Spa prides itself on offering customers a relaxing and pampering environment with services like massages, body treatments, waxing, and facials. No matter if you’re craving a deep tissue massage or a facial treatment, you can expect Pure Spa to elevate your self-care practice. Try their most popular facial, C the Difference, which uses high doses of vitamin C to improve skin elasticity and brightness.

79 E Butler Ave, Ambler, PA amblerpurespa.com

PHOTOS COURTESY OF AMBLER THEATER, ANTIQUE GARDEN COTTAGE, PAPER DOLLS, PURE SPA, THE JUICE POD, SWEET ANNIE’S CANDY SHOPPE

From morning to night, Ambler is a suburb that never sleeps. Located 16 miles north of Center City Philadelphia, the heart of Ambler on Butler Ave offers entertainment, diverse cuisine, and shopping for any early bird or night owl. Whether you're looking for an afternoon getaway or a full-day trip, the walkable downtown and array of businesses will keep you busy!

THE JUICE POD

Before spending the morning relaxing at Pure Spa, kick-start your day with a healthy smoothie or acai bowl at the Juice Pod. If you are feeling parched or needing a health boost, the Juice Pod offers a variety of food and drink options like bagels, acai bowls, smoothies, and custom green juices. Feeling adventurous? Grab a ginger or wellness shot. Check them out to start your day right for your health!

83 E Butler Ave, Ambler, PA thejuicepod.com/ambler

SWEET ANNIE’S CANDY SHOPPE

Walk a few doors down to Sweet Annie’s to find delicate handcrafted macarons and rich chocolates. With family roots in the candy business that go back to 1933, Sweet Annie’s reopened in 2019 and sweetens the town with treats like their lemon berry macarons and truffle chocolates. The shop also has home and stationery goods to browse. If you need a sweet treat while shopping, Sweet Annie’s is a stop for you!

81 E Butler Ave, Ambler, PA sweetanniescandyshoppe.com

BRIDGETS STEAKHOUSE

End your day at Bridgets Steakhouse for a modern dining experience. Since opening in 2004, the restaurant has served its customers with new dishes and drinks created daily. Whether you’re in the mood for fish, steak, duck, or chicken, Bridgets provides a range of options, like their braised short ribs and maple-bourbon glazed Atlantic salmon. For dessert, try their bananas Foster, featuring fresh bananas, dark rum, and banana liqueur with ice cream and whipped cream. In addition to their extensive dinner menu, Bridgets offers an expansive wine selection with options from around the world.

8 W Butler Pike, Ambler, PA bridgetssteak.com

OFFICE SPACE Revamp

GATHER HOME BOUTIQUE & FURNITURE

DETAILS

BENJAMIN ROBERTS

The Gift of Tidy

WITH HER BUSINESS, SO ORGANIZED, LISBET BYLER

HELPS PEOPLE GET —AND STAY—TIDY

BY RACHEL CURRY

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAUREN E. BLISS PHOTOGRAPHY

To thrive in a tidy space, you don’t have to be the kind of person who believes every last object should “spark joy,” as world-renowned organizer Marie Kondo puts it. Rather, you simply have to be willing to create a space that caters to your ideal life. And with Lisbet Byler’s help, you don’t have to do it alone.

In January, Byler launched her own professional tidying business, So Organized. This career allows her to combine her innate empathy and people skills with her intuitive and learned sense of functionality and tidiness.

“They’re always guided sessions,” Byler says about the organizing work she does with clients. “I think it’s really important that they’re part of the process, because I can’t choose what matters to you.”

Whether it’s a specific space—garage, kitchen, closet, or the like—or an entire home, Byler works directly with clients to address underlying causes of disorder and create a lasting system of organization.

Byler is Lancaster’s first (and only) KonMari Consultant, which means she largely follows Marie Kondo’s KonMari method of organization. However, Byler understands that every client is different, so she applies a bespoke approach to every project, fusing KonMari with her own unique touch as she sees fit.

Byler is the type of person who reads books like “The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning” in her spare time and has an impeccably organized sock drawer. “If you walked into my childhood room and breathed, I would’ve known someone was in there, because something was slightly off,” she says. “My sisters were the total opposite. It was just inherent in me.”

But it’s not like Byler thinks her tidying services will make others magically love organizing. It’s actually the opposite. “I want to make your life as easy as possible in the space we’re in,” she clarifies.

Already, Byler has proven how effective her strategies are time and time again. One of her first clients was a couple in retirement who hired her to tidy their entire house, including what Byler calls “the underbelly” (otherwise known as the layer below the seemingly pristine surface). She saw them a couple of times per week for nearly four months. By the end of the process, the couple couldn’t wait to host, showing their guests every spick-andspan corner of the house they could.

Another client was honest about their ADHD, so Byler worked with them to make the space as functional as possible. She even met with other professional organizers who specialize in spaces inhabited by those with ADHD, all in an effort to be as well equipped as possible to do right by her client.

“It’s a very intimate and vulnerable process. I don’t take that for granted,” says Byler. “I feel honored they feel comfortable inviting me into their home going through their things.”

This is true regardless of how many things someone has in their home. Byler, promising she’s judgment-free, says to potential clients, “Don’t pick up before I come over. Don’t clean. I want to see your space in its natural form. Even before our first consultation, you don’t need to have anything figured out.” That’s the voice of someone who is open-armed and ready to help others rid themselves of shame and excess stress in the way she knows best.

Byler’s process involves a lot of minimizing. Only once someone has gone through their things with her can she choreograph the tidying process.

When it comes to the actual organizing, Byler believes less is more—unlike some other organizers, who often push their own product lines on their clients.

“It’s really a luxury service, but if I can cut costs for them elsewhere, I will,” she says. That means using tidying products people already have before going out and buying more (and even then, she’ll only purchase products if her clients want them).

Byler speaks like someone who is trained in counseling (she doesn’t believe in junk drawers— they’re “organized utility drawers”—and she’s a firm believer in giving yourself at least a 24-hour waiting period before going out and buying a shiny new thing). The overlap in counseling and professional organizing is apparent the moment Byler starts talking about the work she does.

For people who enlist the help of So Organized, they’re doing more than giving their home a refresh.

“There’s no shame in asking for help. If this is a daily struggle that you deal with, asking for help is a gift you’re giving yourself,” Byler says. By doing this, she adds, “You’re able to focus on the people and things you love and care about.” In increasingly busy households, perhaps that is something wonderful to strive for.

Pillow Talk:

When choosing a mattress and pillow, there’s no blanket statement (yes, pun intended) that works for everyone. For a customized night’s rest, try these tips from the sleep pros.

Material madness

Foam. Coils. Hybrid. Which is best? Turns out, science doesn’t say, so it’s a matter of preference, says Dr. John Mario Levri, board-certified sleep medicine specialist and medical director of sleep medicine for UPMC Central PA. “If you’re on a mattress that is making you hot, making you uncomfortable, or exacerbating joint pain, that can be a wrong mattress and disrupt your sleep,” he says.

Sleep test

Levri has had patients who churn through multiple mattresses, fruitlessly trying to find The One. If that sounds familiar, maybe it’s not your mattress. Maybe a sleep disorder is causing your restless nights or sleepy days. “Before you buy a mattress, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to speak to a sleep physician and see if a sleep study is needed,” Levri says.

Cool of the evening

Good sleep needs an atmosphere that’s cool, dark, and quiet, says Levri. Cooling mattresses and pillows can coax your body through its natural cooldown as the night progresses. Sleep testers suggest considering a hybrid mattress with breathable foam layers and coils that promote airflow. In pillows, look for similar breathability through air circulation, plus wicking covers and perhaps a cooling gel that draws away excess heat.

Best test

A quick lie-down at the store can’t predict how a mattress will make you feel after one night, so lie down in your normal sleeping positions for about 15 minutes, say experts. Better yet, Levri suggests doing some field testing. Ask about the brand of that heavenly hotel mattress or, on visits with family and friends, note the mattresses and pillows that promoted peaceful slumber for you.

What’s your sleep style?

We are back, stomach, or side sleepers, so look for mattresses that support the spine and keep shoulders and hips from sinking. While scientific studies haven’t determined the best mattress types for different sleep styles, you can probably trust the “best for” claims because manufacturers typically conduct their own research, Levri says. For pillows, he recommends some firmness to support the head and neck.

Smart stuff

BY DIANE MCCORMICK

GET YOUR BEST Z’S ON THE RIGHT MATTRESS AND PILLOW

Track your heart rate. Raise your head to reduce snoring. Adjust firmness to your preference. Sleep in blissful coolness while your partner snuggles in warmth. Adjustable and smart mattresses can be pricey, but if poor sleep is dragging you down, consider the return on investment. Plus, sleep doctors can review the data collected, along with your symptoms, to decide if you need a sleep study.

Pet partners

More than half of us invite our fur babies to bed, and we can’t imagine drifting off to sleep without our personal serotonin machines. But pets can also disrupt sleep. Make sure that a new mattress is roomy enough for everyone, provides cooling for furry creatures, and minimizes motion transfer as your dog circles to find the right spot or the cat hops on and off all night.

Celebrating 50 Years

of bringing you QUALITY PRODUCT SELECTIONS with a reputation for OUTSTANDING SERVICE after the sale.

Martin Companies

If you are in the market for APPLIANCES, FURNITURE, MATTRESSES or better quality WATER at your tap, the Martin Companies are ready to assist in finding the right solution to fit your needs. Not sure what style of furniture you prefer? Our sales consultants have years of experience and are able to assist you with each step of the process, from design and room layout through completion. Should you have a need for parts or in-home service, we feature the largest appliance and water treatment service department in our market area. Martin Appliance, Martin Water Conditioning, and Martin Furniture & Mattress are family-owned and operated. We look forward to the opportunity to serve you!

Eat & Drink

FARM-TO-TABLE COMES HOME

Go behind the scenes with Passerine.

Read more on page 18.

Lancaster’s Farm-to-Table Comes Home

PASSERINE COMPOSES A FARM-TOTABLE SYMPHONY IN LANCASTER’S MOMENT OF SELF-DISCOVERY

BY CARRIE LYN STRONG PHOTOGRAPHY BY KARLO GESNER

Lancaster County has been a longtime producer of simple produce, proteins, and dairy, helping the farm-to-table movement grow in major cities and giving new words to restaurant menus such as “pasture-raised,” “free-range,” and “Amish made.” According to Kyle Sollenberger, co-owner of Passerine and a Mechanicsburg native, Lancaster has only recently become a destination for farm-to-table fare, finally utilizing the abundance of locally sourced and farmraised ingredients. Sollenberger and his team at Passerine have taken to supporting the farm-to-table movement in Lancaster, further encouraging diners to explore and experience flavors that have been in city's backyard all along.

Passerine, a seasonal new American restaurant and bottle shop, opened in April 2023 with the intent of becoming a space for people to feel they can relax and enjoy fresh and local cuisine with quality drinks to enhance any meal. Passerine’s menu is seasonal, pulling creativity and artistry from many different worldly cuisines found in the American culinary landscape today. Sollenberger, who also owns Passenger Coffee and Prince Street Café, feels people who love food should be experiencing Lancaster’s best finished products made from ingredients grown out of the hard work and dedication of local farmers, vignerons, brewmasters, and spirits and cider makers. It’s in this spirit that Passerine’s team boasts some of the most passionate people in the business inspired by the history and heart of the region!

Executive Chef Joshua Manny leads Passerine’s open kitchen using fresh ingredients from local farms, upcycling ingredients and featuring familiar dishes in his own interpretation of classic French techniques to develop flavor. For example, a classic pomodoro is made simply from fresh grated tomato and onion. But on Passerine’s menu, Chef Manny creates an enhanced version. He makes a tomato “water” by straining raw pureed tomato. He then processes the remaining tomato pulp and adds it back to the sauce. To finish the dish, he dusts the pasta with tomato powder made from a tomato by-product that would normally be discarded, enhancing the overall tomato flavor and vibrancy of the dish. Strumming the local chord, the Cavatelli

Pomodoro is made with local heirloom tomatoes, garlic, and basil from Brogue Hydroponics in Brogue. Also on the dinner menu, the Roasted Beet Salad features “Jonna’s yogurt,” a cow’s milk, Greek-style yogurt made by Chef Manny’s good friend and former colleague Jonna, owner of Fiddle Creek Dairy in Quarryville. The beets and berries on the dish are from Lancaster County and brought in from Lancaster Farm Fresh Cooperative, while the mint is from Brogue Hydroponics.

General manager and local mixologist Steve Wood (a leading light and a familiar face behind some of Lancaster’s best bars for many years) exudes a passion for Passerine’s East Coast beverage program. He works directly with bar manager Jen Splain, who is a trained herbalist. Wood exclaims, “It’s most amazing seeing how she respects produce that comes to the bar. She knows their taxonomic name, the history of herbs and how they are used medicinally. She respects flavor and has a unique approach.”

Wood notes the collaborative effort from the team using their unique palates to develop layered cocktails like Daisy Verde, a stirred take on a classic margarita with arugula blossom oil washed Arette tequila, and the Bitter Rose, which features Aperitivo Mazzura made from botanicals sourced from the Dolomite Mountains in Italy’s Triveneto region. While botanicals like arugula blossoms are sourced locally, alcoholic spirits are sourced 50% from small producers on the East Coast with the remaining made by those who have been creating specific liquors in the likeness of wine with emphasis on terroir, family heritage, and a spirit of place.

Woods and Sollenberger have also brought together a list of small wine, beer, and cider producers who intentionally and responsibly source their ingredients and who either create interesting beverages or lack amplification. Sixty percent of Passerine's list features wines from the East Coast, while most of the beers and cider are made there too. The restaurant's cider selection is a nod to the history of the Pennsylvania cider industry, which dates back to the 1600s. Local apple orchards have historically been grown for cider production, a note carefully played by the beverage maestros at Passerine!

This new American restaurant is not a fine dining establishment in a large city offering a trending culinary scene. Passerine is a delightful place in Lancaster City where the simplicity in the cuisine is new, interesting, and exciting; where servers talk about wine, drinks, and food; and where the vibe encourages you to enjoy everything in the place you are while humming along to its symphonic, regional tune.

Passerine

114 N Prince St, Lancaster 717-283-2996

cafepasserine.com

Think Inside the Bento Box!

MEDITERRANEAN BENTO BOX

Making a bento box for lunch on the go is as easy as raiding your fridge or the antipasto bar at the store!

Grilled Chicken

Dolmas (stuffed grape leaves)

Beet Hummus

Marinated Feta Cheese & Olives

Cherry Tomatoes

Pita Chips

Dried Apricots

Dark Chocolate

Instructions

1. Start by preparing the grilled chicken:

• Season the chicken breasts with your preferred Mediterranean spices, such as oregano, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

• Gr ill the chicken until fully cooked and slightly charred on the outside.

• Al low the chicken to cool before slicing it into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.

2. Next, arrange the ingredients in your bento box container as follows:

• Section 1: Place the grilled chicken slices or pieces in this section.

• Section 2: Add stuffed grape leaves. They can be purchased pre-made or prepared at home.

• Section 3: Fill with beet hummus.

• Section 4: Combine marinated feta cheese and olives in this section. Use a variety of olives, along with feta cheese cubes or crumbles. Drizzle a little bit of the marinade over the cheese and olives for added flavor.

• Section 5: Arrange a handful of cherry tomatoes in this section.

• Section 6: Fill with pita chips or toasted pita bread triangles. These can be used for dipping into the beet hummus or enjoyed on their own.

• Section 7: Add a handful of dried apricots to this section. They provide a sweet and chewy contrast to the other savory components.

• Section 8: Finally, place a couple of pieces of dark chocolate in this section as a delightful dessert.

Meet Diana Smedley, the Gift Box lady! She’s the powerhouse behind Lancaster Gift Box, a local gift company that supports 75+ Pennsylvania brands in their retail shop and online. Diana started her career in food as a cooking teacher and preserves maker, and turned that passion into Lancaster Gift Box. She sources the finest food and home goods from Pennsylvania in her downtown shop and online store. When Diana is not making fabulous gift boxes, you can find her in her garden with her husband and their cavapoo, Luca.

RECIPES AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY DIANA SMEDLEY

Your lunch box just got a little more playful.

HOT ITALIAN BENTO BOX

Making a sandwich roll-up the night before is a time-saving hack. Pack your bento with everything but the crunchy crackers, and store in the fridge overnight—your morning will be a little more relaxing.

• Place the roll-up in the bento box, leaving out the crunchy crackers for the next day.

2. Next, arrange the ingredients in your bento box container as follows:

Pistachios

Dried Apricots

Sliced Cucumbers

Kalamata Olives

Instructions

1. Start by preparing the Italian sub roll-ups:

• Layer the ingredients on the tortilla in the order listed above. Roll up the tortilla tightly, making sure the fillings are secured inside.

• Optionally, you can secure the roll-up with toothpicks or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to keep it together.

• Section 1: Fill this section with taralli crackers. These crunchy crackers will complement the flavors of the Italian sub roll-up.

• Section 2: Add a generous portion of red pepper hummus to this section. You can either make it from scratch or purchase pre-made hummus from a store.

• Section 3: Place pickled peppers and green beans in this section. You can use store-bought pickled peppers or prepare your own at home.

• Section 4: Add a rainbow cookie to this section. This sweet treat will provide a delightful dessert component to your bento box.

• Section 5: Fill this section with pistachios. They add a satisfying crunch and a touch of saltiness.

• Section 6: Arrange a handful of dried apricots in this section. They provide a sweet and chewy contrast to the other components.

• Section 7: Place sliced cucumbers in this section. They will add a refreshing and hydrating element to the bento box.

• Section 8: Add a handful of Kalamata olives to this section. These flavorful olives will add a Mediterranean touch to the bento box.

Italian Sub Roll-Ups: Salami, Ham, Provolone, Pepperoni, Lettuce, Hot Cherry Peppers, Italian Seasoning, and Tortilla Wrap

Taralli Crackers

Red Pepper Hummus

Pickled Peppers & Green Beans

Rainbow Cookie

PARISIAN BENTO BOX

This bento box is the grown-up version of the typical lunch of my childhood—cheese, meat, crackers, a piece of fruit, and a sweet treat from my mom. Treat yourself to a little sweet something to round out your lunch break. (Pack this up with a bottle of wine for a weekend picnic!)

Rosemary Crackers

Prosciutto

Hard-Boiled Eggs

Grainy Mustard

Gherkin Pickles

Fresh Figs

Comté Cheese

Almonds

French Macarons

Instructions

1. Start by preparing the hard-boiled eggs:

• Place the eggs in a saucepan and cover them with water. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat.

• Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the eggs simmer for about 9-12 minutes.

• Remove the eggs from the heat and transfer them to an ice bath to cool.

• Once cooled, peel the eggs and set them aside.

2. Next, arrange the ingredients in your bento box container as follows:

• Section 1: Fill this section with rosemary crackers. These savory and fragrant crackers will pair well with any of the other components.

• Section 2: Layer prosciutto slices in this section. You can fold or roll the slices for easy consumption.

• Section 3: Add the hard-boiled eggs to this section. You can leave them whole or slice them in half.

• Section 4: Place grainy mustard in a small dipping container or portion cup in this section. This tangy mustard will complement the prosciutto and eggs.

• Section 5: Add gherkin pickles to this section. These tangy and crunchy pickles provide a delightful contrast to the other flavors.

• Section 6: Arrange fresh figs in this section. Cut them into halves or quarters, depending on their size.

• Section 7: Fill this section with slices or cubes of Comté cheese. Comté is a delicious French cheese with a nutty flavor.

• Section 8: Add a handful of almonds to this section. They add a satisfying crunch and pair well with the other components in the box.

• Section 9: Place French macarons in this section. These delicate and sweet treats are a classic addition to any Parisian-inspired bento box.

Meet some of the region’s top real estate pros—and allow them to help you find your dream home or sell your property at its highest value.

REALTOR

Spotlights

Jessica Mann, Manor West Realty

2938 Columbia Ave, Ste 1402, Lancaster, PA 17603 717-239-9770 | JessicasHomeSearch.com

The

Claire Chivington Team Realty ONE Group Unlimited

415 N Prince St, Suite 100, Lancaster, PA 17603 717-606-2512 | 717-569-1700 | teamclaire.net

The Claire Chivington Team provides an elite concierge real estate experience. Integrity and excellence are non-negotiables for us. We have not done our job unless each client:

• Receives unparalleled, personalized service

• Feels fully informed and supported throughout the transaction and beyond

• Enjoys a memorable and smooth real estate experience

“From Consult to Closing, Team Claire Cares!!”

Jessica Mann has been a Realtor for eight years with a passion for service in the Lancaster and surrounding areas. Jessica is ready to help with your home buying and selling needs. As a proud member of Manor West Realty, she carries values of hard work, integrity, and outstanding client service into everything she does. When Jessica isn’t making homeownership dreams come true for her clients, she enjoys spending time with her husband and children on the river.

Lusk and Associates Sotheby’s International Realty

100 Foxshire Dr, Lancaster, PA 17601 717-291-9101 | luskandassociates.com

Lusk & Associates Sotheby’s International Realty is South Central Pennsylvania’s premiere real estate agency, combining the experience and knowledge of our agents with the excellence of Sotheby’s International Realty. Located in Lancaster County, our sole responsibility to our clients is to make sure all their needs are met, from first meeting, to the settlement table, and after the transaction is completed.

Inch & Co. Real Estate

400 Elmwood Blvd, York, PA 17403 717-904-4500 | inchrealestate.com

Tami Behler reimagines the entire real estate experience and offers a boutique-style relationship with you to guarantee your satisfaction. She works diligently to make sure you are getting the quality and attention you deserve throughout your home buying or selling experience. If you are looking to buy or sell your home, contact Tami to get started on this exciting new chapter and to make sure you are getting everything you deserve from your home journey. Call or email Tami Behler, REALTOR®, at 717.891.5969 or tbehler@inchandco.com

McCallister Myers & Associates

1512 E Market St, York, PA 17403 717-885-2027 | mma.homes susquehannastyle.com

Discover your dream home with us! We are a community-first, independent brokerage that believes in people before profit. Embracing a philosophy of putting your needs first, we're dedicated to finding the perfect space to call home. Our personalized service, local expertise, and genuine care ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. Let us help you make your homeownership dreams come true.

Anne M. Lusk, Realtor®

Brockie Mansion Bringing the backtoLife

By Karen HendricKs PHotos By Kinna sHaffer

She hadn’t even stepped inside—she was standing on the doorstep, waiting for the real estate agent. Her husband, Frank, had convinced her to come see the historic York mansion.

“It was sort of on a whim—pure curiosity,” Gabrielle recalls. “The real estate photos did not paint a pretty picture of the house, because there was so much stripped away from it—it was just awful. The price kept dropping, and Frank said, ‘Let’s just go see it,’ and I said, ‘You’re crazy.’”

But there she was, on the doorstep of the 1912 Georgian Revival mansion—gutted by the previous owners, who had launched and never completed ambitious renovations. The shell of a once-glorious mansion was frozen in time, gathering dust.

As Gabrielle gazed through the glass, into the home’s foyer, her eyes rested on the foyer’s original, circa-1912 carved sandstone fireplace.

“Seeing that fireplace still intact, untouched—I fell in love with it,” Gabrielle says. “There wasn’t a lot that was still intact inside the house, but you could see the bones were still here, and it could be brought back to life.”

How a York woman is breathing new life into a landmark mansion, more than a century after it was built

Gabrielle Messina remembers the moment she fell in love with the Brockie Mansion.

Walking through the neglected mansion with the real estate agent, Gabrielle knew she had her work cut out for her.

“It was hauntingly beautiful,” she describes. “Things were covered and draped in sheets and construction plastic, but you could see beauty under the layers of dirt. It was a mix of sadness and decay and beauty—this house was begging for someone to bring her back to life.”

And Gabrielle heard the call. That was in 2018. Today, just five years later, Gabrielle, Frank, and their three teenaged children call the Brockie Mansion “home.” Grit, as well as vision, restored her glory.

Putting the Pieces Back Together

The home’s Georgian Revival style is based on classic lines, symmetry, and balance—as evidenced in the home’s soaring columns, framing the front door. The Brockie Mansion is named for the adjacent spring-fed stream long known as “the Brockie.”

Outside, the Messinas’ renovations included landscaping. The driveway—part dirt, part crushed stones—was paved. Chimneys and their flashings were repaired. Original windows were given an added layer of protection—and energy efficiency—via storm windows.

Inside the 11,000-square-foot home, there was a huge puzzle, waiting to be put together.

“The original wood floors had been removed, and the floorboards were all bundled up. The moldings had been ripped off the walls,” Gabrielle recalls. “Putting it all back was like fitting giant Legos together.”

Life

It was a mix of sadness and decay and beauty this house was begging for someone to bring her back to

Old World Style

The entire kitchen is “brand-spanking new,” Gabrielle says, except for an ornate marble fireplace—not original to the home, but added by a previous homeowner. Gleaming new Carrara marble countertops match existing marble details such as bathroom windowsills.

“Marble does etch, scratch, and stain, so you have to be ok with imperfection,” says Gabrielle. “I figure there are thousand-yearold monuments, stairs, and statues in Europe made from it that still hold so much beauty with years of patina—then surely, a kitchen countertop where a bit of red wine is spilled and citrus may cause a bit of etching would be just fine.”

She chose unlacquered brass for kitchen and bathroom faucets and hardware, “so they would show patina over time, as opposed to being bright and shiny,” Gabrielle explains. “I embrace imperfection—it’s character.”

The couple co-managed much of the work themselves, hiring tradesmen for specific projects. Married for 20 years, Gabrielle and Frank were both born and raised in York—into families within the restaurant industry. The couple owned and operated a family-style Italian restaurant for 10 years.

Today, Frank works in commercial real estate. Gabrielle became a stay-at-home mom with a flair for design. She currently consults on commercial and residential design projects nationwide. While her renovation of the Brockie Mansion is a monumental project, Gabrielle kept the color palette simple.

“I felt like if we stripped the color back, the architectural detail would speak for itself,” Gabrielle explains.

That’s why she repainted the foyer and kitchen with untinted Benjamin Moore paint “straight out of the can.” It sets a light, airy tone that carries through the three-story home, its stairways, and landings.

The library is the exception. Gabrielle “embraced the moodiness” of the wood-paneled room and added Sherwin-Williams Tricorn Black to the walls.

By 2019, one year into renovations, the Messina family of five moved in.

Past and Present

For a home constructed in 1912, the Brockie Mansion contains innovation—and quirks: an elevator, and a no-longer-functioning central vacuum system housed in an ornate basement unit emblazoned with “Victor” and “York, PA.”

The brick home, painted white in the 1950s, was constructed with cement walls that present renovation challenges—especially for modern bathroom plumbing.

And on every floor of the home, still preserved today, are circa-1912 fire hoses, neatly coiled, within metal compartments similar to electrical boxes. And there’s a reason for both the cement and hoses.

“The original Victorian home at this location burned down,” Gabrielle explains, “and the Smith family did not want another tragedy to occur.”

To understand who the Smiths were, and learn about the past and present Brockie Mansion, we turned to York historian Jim McClure, who explained the original Victorian-era mansion was built in 1873 for Jeremiah Sullivan Black, President Buchanan’s attorney general, then secretary of state. Home ownership passed to son Chauncey Black, a lieutenant governor of Pennsylvania.

In 1907, the Victorian-style Brockie Mansion

was purchased by S. Morgan Smith, “probably the most important industrial leader in York County history,” says Jim. Business and home ownership passed to son C. Elmer Smith.

“At Christmas in 1911, C. Elmer Smith, on his way home from church, had a head-on collision with a trolley that immediately killed one of his sons, and it badly injured another son, who was recuperating at Brockie. They had all the fireplaces going, warding off the bitter cold,” Jim explains.

The flue overheated, the mansion caught on fire, and pumper trucks froze while trying to fight the flames.

“Some people think well-to-do people are insulated from loss, but that was a key moment in that family’s life, losing their son, then losing their home,” says Jim.

That’s why the family, determined to avoid future tragedy, rebuilt the 1912 Brockie Mansion with cement walls and fire hoses. It was designed by Robert A. Stair, who apprenticed under prolific York architect John Augustus Dempwolf.

“The Dempwolfs, [brothers], really designed York’s skyline,” says Jim, “so to the extent that Stair-Dempwolf did the second Brockie is a real plus to the architectural history of York County.”

Serendipitous Stories

Gabrielle’s path first intersected with the Brockie Mansion about 10 years ago. Little did she know, she’d own it one day. A friend managing York’s ReStore asked if Gabrielle wanted to tag along and visit the Brockie Mansion.

“I didn’t know what Brockie Mansion was, but I said, ‘Yes,’” she recalls. “The last family who lived here was moving out.”

While her friend was interested in salvaging and reselling items, Gabrielle ended up doing the same.

“I purchased a bunch of lighting—three chandeliers I took to my then-home, and then I brought them back here to reinstall them four or five years later. It’s crazy to think about,” she reflects.

There’s yet another story of serendipity. Gabrielle recently acquired a treasure trove of Brockie Mansion photos, circa 1917.

A friend at an auction had spied a weathered black photo album titled “Views at Brockie” in gold lettering. While Gabrielle and her friend, bidding on her behalf, expected to snag it for a few hundred dollars, the bidding escalated to $1,700. Gabrielle has pored over the pricey yet priceless sepia-toned photos, gleaning clues and inspiration. The ferns she chose for the home’s patio mimic those of 1917.

“I’m grateful for the chance to be a caretaker, a steward, of this home,” Gabrielle says. “It’s definitely a labor of love—it sounds so cliché, but it’s true. When we decided to take on this project, I took the reins and said, ‘If we’re going to do it, I’m going to be all-in.’”

It’s definitely a labor of it sounds so cliche, but it’s true.

Love '

To see more of the home, check @gabriellemessina on Instagram, where Gabrielle documented the home’s renovations, “more as a visual journal for me,” she describes. She also found community among “lots of people reviving old homes,” as well as venue opportunities, even attracting Anthropologie. To date, the retailer has staged about a dozen photo shoots—more than any other private home, Gabrielle says—at the Brockie Mansion.

You can find Jim McClure online at witnessingyork.com

Home Industry Experts

Whether you're looking to transform your current house or searching for the perfect new home you always wanted, we've got you covered. Our home industry spotlights are a chance to discover some of the creative home experts in the Susquehanna Valley.

IT’S ABOUT THE MOMENTS THAT HAPPEN RIGHT OUTSIDE YOUR FRONT DOOR

The space between the homes is where moments happen and memories are made. Charter carefully designs every inch of their neighborhoods with gathering places like TerraPark®, the world’s first all-natural playground, hundreds of preserved and new trees, and in the center, Crossroads, a small collection of locally owned businesses along quaint tree-lined streets where neighbors can take a break and connect with friends just a few steps from their front door.

It all starts with a conversation. Visit a Charter neighborhood today, and they will help you decide which neighborhood has the right home for you.

CHARTERHOMES.COM

WHERE SUCCESSFUL REMODEL PROJECTS START

So, you have a vision for a home improvement project, but where do you start? You may not realize it, but an advocate that you trust to guide you through the process is often beneficial, but lacking, for many homeowners that are new to reno projects. That’s where GR Mitchell comes in.

As the most trusted building material supplier in the Susquehanna Valley for over 50 years, GR Mitchell is uniquely positioned to help get your project off the ground. Having worked with many of the construction professionals in the area, their team will help you to select a contractor with skills that pair well with what you’re trying to achieve. This can even mean suggesting pros that typically quote within the budget that you’re hoping to target.

Undergoing a project that might benefit from the expertise of a designer? Their five-person, in-house design team also works with you to define and measure your space, develop a deep understanding of your style, and troubleshoot your wish list to ensure that you’re getting the aesthetic you want while achieving the functionality that your

space needs. And it’s important to note that this service is included in your purchase of materials, at no extra cost.

Whether your home’s refresh is as simple as new doors and windows or more involved like construction of a new deck, it’s worth giving the pros at GR Mitchell a call to kick-start your project.

14 Beaver Valley Pike, Willow Street, PA 17584 2412 Eastern Blvd, York, PA 17402 717-464-2999

GRMITCHELL.COM

LANDMARK HOMES: CELEBRATING 25 YEARS OF BUILDING EXCELLENCE

AWARD-WINNING, FAMILY-OWNED DESIGNER AND BUILDER OF NEW HOMES IN CENTRAL PENNSYLVANIA

In 1998, brothers Cliff and Clair Weaver founded Landmark Homes with the vision to be the premier builder of excellence in Central Pennsylvania. This vision, coupled with the belief that every new home should be as unique as the family that built it, is the core foundation of Landmark Homes.

Over the past 25 years, home buyers have come to recognize Landmark Homes as a leading local home builder with outstanding personalization options, quality, and customer service. Landmark Homes not only offers a broad portfolio of flexible home plans but also an extensive selection of design options to give every home buyer a custom home building experience, no matter the size or price of their new home. And because quality craftsmanship and customer service are just as important as design, Landmark Homes continues to build every home with the same commitment to the Weaver brothers’ vision of excellence.

With two different design galleries—one in Ephrata and another in Mechanicsburg—home buyers can conveniently browse roomsized installations, having the benefit of guidance from Landmark’s experienced design professionals, to select options and finishing touches for their new home, ensuring a truly personalized design. Landmark offers home buyers a choice of new home communities in Cumberland, Dauphin, Lancaster, Lebanon, and York counties. Or, for those with their own land, Landmark can build a home using one of their 40+ floor plans, or even a custom design.

Compare the details, discover the difference, and experience the satisfaction of owning a Landmark home.

ENTERTAIN IN A SPACE YOU LOVE!

Having trouble finding inspiration while renovating your home? Rineer Designs, led by Heather Rineer, President and Director of Design, is your resource for design inspiration!

With meticulous planning and attention to detail, Rineer Designs handles every aspect of the design, saving you countless hours of research and decision-making. Let Heather and her team guide you through the entire process, offering valuable insights and suggestions along the way.

Check out this featured client who regained their excitement for entertaining after their Rineer Designs transformation. The client’s small, dark kitchen and dining room was transformed into a bright, warm haven. By expanding the kitchen and incorporating the fireplace, they created a new focal point, complete with a baking zone centered on a large window, additional seating, and a clean-up zone, all enhancing functionality and creating a sense of connection to the outdoors.

Just imagine how your new space could look with some inspiration! Discover the joy of entertaining in a beautifully designed space, where you can warmly welcome guests and create cherished memories.

717-332-1619

Heather@RineerDesigns.com

RINEERDESIGNS.COM

NCIDQ Certificate #35373 | PA #16774

PENN STONE CREATES LIFE BUILT OUTDOORS

In 1914, a young building materials salesman started Pennsylvania Stone, Cement & Supply Company in Downtown Lancaster where he cut blocks of stone and supplied masonry materials to local builders.

Over 100 years later, Penn Stone supplies construction professionals and homeowners in South Central Pennsylvania with the best selection of brick, stone, and hardscape materials. They've also expanded to offer landscape products, outdoor furniture, and everything you need to create a stunning outdoor room.

The showroom features inspirational ideas for your Life Built Outdoors. Here you can experience design materials and products in person. While visiting Penn Stone, speak with a Design Advisor and Outdoor Living Specialists who can guide you in choosing the right materials and outdoor living amenities for your dream project.

Schedule an appointment or stop in to browse the stone and brick showroom, outdoor furniture design center, outdoor hardscaping display, and well-stocked materials yard.

190 W Ross St Lancaster, PA 17603 717-397-5264

PENNSTONE.COM

THE LUCK OF THE IRISH

Designer Judy Kennedy of JK Home Design brings sophistication and classic comfort to an underutilized space in a Manchester, Pennsylvania, home.

The homeowners wanted a comfortable area to entertain family and friends and to host an occasional poker game and, if possible, an authentic Irish bar.

Judy sourced an 1880s antique bar that was disassembled, refinished, reassembled, and modernized to fit the space. This oneof-a-kind feature was then complemented with custom upholstery, artwork, and a stack stone wall, creating a stunning focal point in the room.

The homeowners are delighted with the results and are enjoying a winning streak at the poker table.

Could it be the luck of the Irish working its magic? JKHOMEDESIGN.COM

LIFE WELL STYLED

Specializing in window treatments and home décor, Heritage Design Interiors has been decorating homes and workplaces since 1990. From blinds to shutters and valances to draperies, they will take care of all the details from measuring to installation of your new window treatments. Choose from thousands of patterns, colors, trims, styles, and rods for your windows. In addition to great selections, quality custom products, and customer service, they also have a retail store with artwork, mirrors, floral designs, accessories, lamps, accent furniture, and more!

Whether your next project is new construction, renovating your home, or just a room makeover, they can help you coordinate all of the details of cabinetry, countertops, lighting and plumbing fixtures, paint colors, flooring, and exterior selections. Their design service is tailored to your wants and needs, and their guidance will take the stress out of the selection process.

Over the past 33 years, Heritage Design Interiors’ model homes have received many awards, including from Best of Show and Best Interior Design from the Lancaster Parade of Homes Tour. They have also received awards from local magazines and newspapers for being voted #1 Designers and Top 10 Designers. Their best awards, however, come from their clients who enthusiastically recommend Heritage Design Interiors to their friends and family.

1064 E Main St, New Holland, PA 17557 717-354-2233

HERITAGEDESIGNINTERIORS.COM

Eat, drink, and be merry throughout the fall season with numerous opportunities to support the arts throughout the Susquehanna Valley. From film, to crafts, to wine, there is an occasion for all to appreciate masterpieces of all mediums.

Festivals to Support the Arts 5

BY LEXIE KAUFFMAN

IN THE SUSQUEHANNA VALLEY

THE RED ROSE FILM FESTIVAL

1 2 3 4 5

112 N Water St, Lancaster, PA | redrosefilmfestival.com

Are you looking to support independent filmmakers and small businesses from all over the globe? Then the Red Rose Film Festival (RRFF) is for you! Make your way to Zoetropolis Theatre in downtown Lancaster to experience a showcase of diverse perspectives. The films chosen for RRFF bring stories from various economic, gender, and cultural communities. RRFF’s work upholds their motto: “Global Perspectives, Local Impact.” Exact dates have yet to be announced, so be sure to check their site for updates.

HUMMELSTOWN ARTS FESTIVAL

4 E Main St, Hummelstown, PA | hummelstownartsfest.com

For the past 40 years, Hummelstown has committed itself to celebrating the arts through their annual art festival. Over 130 participating artists will line East and West Main Street from Railroad to Water Street on Saturday, September 16, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. From purses to pottery and painting, this festival has it all. You can spend the day shopping while enjoying the festival’s food vendors and activities. You don’t want to miss out on the 41st year of this beloved community event.

THE YORK ART FAIR

1282 Klines Run Rd #9120, Wrightsville, PA | yorkaf.com

The York Art Fair provides a unique experience for all ages. Showcasing work from local and regional creators, the fair has shopping, food, live music, and more. There is something for everyone, including many activities for children and families. Mark your calendars for October 14 to soak in the beauty of Moon Dancer Vineyards & Winery while shopping the work of artisans. The fair is free and takes place from noon to 5 p.m.

COMMUNITY OF LEBANON (CLA) MUSIC & BREW FESTIVAL

1400 W Maple St, Lebanon, PA | lebanoncla.com/events/music-brew-festival Drinks, food, and music—what more could you ask for? Don’t miss out on the Community of Lebanon’s (CLA) Music and Brew Festival. On Saturday, September 16, from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m., you can attend one of CLA’s largest events, enjoying drinks from local breweries, various food stands, a mobile cigar lounge, and live music. With a $10 admission and a valid ID, you can have an afternoon full of fun at Coleman Memorial Park Amphitheater. You don’t want to miss out!

GETTYSBURG WINE & MUSIC FESTIVAL

95 Presidential Cir, Gettysburg, PA | gettysburgwineandmusicfestival.com/tickets Gettysburg Wine and Music Festival is a one-stop shop for all wine lovers! On September 9 and 10, plan to spend your weekend sampling hundreds of wines from all across Pennsylvania while enjoying live music. The festival opens at 11 a.m., and sampling begins at noon. There are numerous ticket options, including discounted tickets for teens and seniors. Ticket options can be found on their website. Don’t miss this unforgettable weekend!

To stay independent, planning ahead is essential. Your plan should include how and where you want to grow older. It should advocate for you, respect your choices and help you remain in your home, while staying healthy.

SmartLife VIA Willow Valley is designed to deliver high quality services and care wherever you call home. The program balances independence with life-long security. SmartLife delivers care coordination, companion services, personal care, and nursing care, all while safeguarding your assets from rising costs.

To learn how SmartLife allows you to stay in your own home, while benefiting from the security and support of a senior-living community, we invite you to attend an upcoming information session.