YORK'S NEW HOT SPOT FOR Bites, Brews & Socializing
6 TRENDING IN TOWN
Discover this year’s stunning kitchen and bathroom trends
8
SHOP IN STYLE
Transform your space into a budget-friendly home gym
11 PEOPLE & PLACES
Meet Lancaster's newest dance studio owner
14
LIVE WELL
Learn about how pelvic floor therapy can change your life
31 FOODIE FINDS
Experience authentic Japanese flavors and design in Central PA
33 DISH IT UP
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with these lucky dishes
36 FIVE THINGS
Elevate your home with this year’s trending houseplants
Features
16 A COMMUNITY CATALYST TO GOOD HEALTH
Get to know Central PA’s newest hangout for food, drinks and wellness
24 HOMAGE TO THE HOMEBODY
Create your dream sanctuary space with expert tips from local interior designers
On the Cover
Serene living space designed by Julie Estes of Carlisle Design, Interiors and Consulting Group
PHOTO BY ASHLEE ZIMMERMAN
Willow Valley Communities is honored to have earned the #2 nationwide ranking in Newsweek’s 2025 edition of America’s Best Continuing Care Retirement Communities.
Thank you to our Residents and Team Members for making our community a truly special place to live and work.
Now accepting reservations for new construction at Mosaic. To learn more: mosaiclancaster.com/seemore | 888.893.1423 | info@mosaiclancaster.com
Interiors that inspire and uplift
Imagine a space that perfectly reflects your personality, supports your lifestyle, and inspires you every time you walk in the room.
At Rineer Designs, we specialize in creating environments that strike a perfect balance between usability, function, style, and a unique, transformative energy.
Our expertise spans new home designs, complete renovations, design-build projects, outdoor living spaces, and commercial interiors.
We enjoy taking the time to listen to your unique goals and preferences, ensuring your space works for you and your needs. Every project is managed with precision and care, offering seamless coordination, collaboration and a commitment to excellence.
Ready to elevate your space with a sophisticated, award-winning design firm?
Rineer Designs is the Interior Designer team of choice.
Elevate your home’s style connect with us today!
Meet Susquehanna Style ’s New Publisher
As we embark on a new chapter at Susquehanna Style magazine, I am thrilled to introduce myself as your new publisher. My name is Kate Hunter, and I am honored to join this incredible community of creators, dreamers and doers who make Central Pennsylvania such a vibrant and inspiring place to live.
Since I was 10 years old, I dreamed of becoming a chef, with big aspirations of one day being a TV chef. That passion led me to culinary school, where I honed my craft and embarked on a career in fine dining and country clubs, refining my skills in high-pressure kitchens. Eventually, my path shifted to food service marketing, where I combined my culinary expertise with business acumen, helping companies like Hershey, Snyder’s Pretzels and Kunzler Foods bring their products into homes across Central PA.
For the past 20 years, I have been privileged to work closely with small businesses, witnessing firsthand the passion, resilience and innovation that fuel our local economy. It is these experiences that have shaped my deep appreciation for the makers and visionaries who pour their heart and soul into their work, enriching our community in countless ways.
At Susquehanna Style, we have always been committed to celebrating the people and places that define our region—and now, more than ever, I am eager to amplify these stories. From the artisans crafting one-of-a-kind pieces to the entrepreneurs building legacies, we aim to shine a spotlight on the talent and tenacity that set Central PA apart.
Kate Hunter
Warm regards,
As I step into this role, my mission is clear: to connect with you—our readers, our partners and our community—to celebrate what makes this region extraordinary. Together, we will continue to champion the values of creativity, collaboration and community that are at the heart of Susquehanna Style
Thank you for welcoming me into this role and for your continued support of the magazine. I look forward to sharing the journey ahead as we explore and honor the stories that make Central Pennsylvania not just a place to live, but a place to love.
Kate Hunter
Publisher
khunter@susquehannastyle.com
susquehannastyle
PHOTO BY ABIGAIL JETER
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Dear Evan Hansen Glatfelter Insurance Broadway Series March
A VISION OF STYLE, INNOVATION AND WELLNESS FOR KITCHENS & BATHS
The National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) has unveiled its 2025 Design Trends Report, offering a glimpse into the evolving preferences that shape modern kitchens and bathrooms. These spaces are no longer merely functional but are now transformed into sanctuaries for relaxation, wellness and self-expression.
B a th
SPA-LIKE SANCTUARIES REDEFINED
In 2025, bathrooms are stepping beyond practicality to embrace the art of relaxation. As homeowners prioritize wellness, these spaces evolve into immersive retreats designed to recharge and rejuvenate.
“Bathroom design has been driven by the spa experience,” says elizaBeth Marcocci, CMKBD, CAPS, of Mother Hubbard’s Custom Cabinetry. “Add in client personalization of design style and functionality, topped off with unique materials, and you have a space that’s truly transformative.”
PERSONALIZED SANCTUARIES
Bathrooms are becoming deeply personal spaces that encourage relaxation. Features such as dimmable lighting, heated floors, soaking tubs, steam showers
NKBA UNVEILS
2025 Design Trends
and built-in seating invite homeowners to unwind and emerge feeling refreshed.
“Innovations like beautyproduct refrigerators and seamless surfaces with fewer grout lines enhance cleanliness and peace of mind, promoting a serene lifestyle,” says Heather Rineer, owner of Rineer Designs.
Jessica Bolles, a designer with Custom Home Group, adds that “color drenching” is becoming increasingly popular.
“What was once the popular accent wall has now taken shape to a full room color drenched ... in one color,” Bolles says.
NATURE-INSPIRED AESTHETICS
Bold natural materials are stealing the spotlight in bathroom design. Wood-grain textures, earthy tones and large-format tiles add sophistication and tranquility. Freestanding tubs and other statement pieces anchor these spaces with visual drama.
“We’re seeing larger material slabs in showers, which not only reduce grout lines but also create a cleaner and more elegant aesthetic,” Rineer says.
EXPANSIVE LAYOUTS AND SMARTER STORAGE
Bathrooms are growing in both size and functionality. Dual sinks, vanities and showerheads accommodate simultaneous use, while innovative storage solutions—like softly lit drawers and hidden compartments— ensure clutter-free elegance.
Kitchen
THE PERFECT BLEND OF FUNCTION & FASHION
The kitchen remains the heart of the home, evolving in 2025 to combine functionality with stylish design. This central hub reflects how people live, cook and gather, offering innovations that redefine modern living.
FUNCTIONALITY AT THE FOREFRONT Efficiency reigns supreme in today’s kitchens. Multifunctional sinks double as food prep stations, while appliances like steam and air-frying ovens elevate everyday cooking. Hidden pantries and panel-ready appliances balance practicality with sleek aesthetics.
“These solutions declutter spaces while offering unique and personalized experiences for homeowners,” Rineer says.
SUBTLE SMART INTEGRATION
High-tech kitchens prioritize usability. Motion-sensor faucets, Wi-Fi-enabled appliances and dimmable LED lighting simplify tasks while maintaining a welcoming atmosphere.
A NOD TO NATURE
Connecting to nature takes center stage with kitchens that blur the boundaries between indoors and outdoors. Larger windows, glass doors and indoor gardens invite natural light and greenery into the space.
“Design trends I see sur fac ing in 2025 would definitely have to be wood tones, warmer color palettes and a renewed love for color. Walnut, white oaks and cherry wood species are continuing to carry weight into the new year,
highlighted in accent pieces such as fireplaces, islands, ceiling beams, etc.,” Bolles says.
BOLD DESIGN CHOICES
In 2025, kitchens aren’t afraid to make statements. Mixed materials like marble paired with matte black finishes or wood mixed with brushed brass add depth and personality. Lighting fixtures double as works of art, and backsplashes take center stage with intricate patterns and textures.
“Textural finishes are creating significant impact,” Rineer says. “They offer a way to express personality, whether through bold, edgy designs or soft, subtle finishes.”
A UNIFIED VISION FOR WELLNESS AND SUSTAINABILITY
In 2025, kitchens and bathrooms are no longer mere necessities, they are personalized sanctuaries that reflect homeowners’ lifestyles and values. From a bathroom designed to ease stress to a kitchen supporting healthy living, these spaces seamlessly combine beauty, functionality and sustainability.
“The biggest trend is per sonalization,” Marcocci says.
“Homeowners want spaces that not only reflect their style but also meet their unique needs.”
For those planning renovations or new builds, these trends serve as a guide to creating spaces that are timeless, innovative and deeply personal.
NKBA.org
DESIGNING YOUR
Dream Wellness Space
BY KATY SHERO PHOTOGRAPHY BY KARLO GESNER
Build your best self by building an at-home gym, full of your favorite brands and meant for any size space and budget.
ASK THE EXPERT: TIPS FOR DESIGNING A HOME GYM
Ashley Mentzer is the founder of Thrive Fit Co, a gym and fitness center located in downtown Camp Hill dedicated to empowerment, inclusivity and inspiring workouts. She believes movement is more than just exercise, and prioritizing movement—no matter where you are—builds strength, confidence and the ability to take on any adventure. Mentzer was also selected as one of Susquehanna Style’s 2024 Women of Strength.
What are the benefits of working out at home?
Working out at home saves time by eliminating the need to drive to the gym, letting you fit in exercise whenever it works for you. It’s also cost-effective and creates a comfortable space where you can focus and stay consistent.
What are some of your favorite ways to incorporate movement into a routine at home?
I keep movement simple with a daily walk with my dogs, sometimes twice a day, and a kettlebell for quick, fullbody lunchtime workouts. Stretching after a long day helps me recover and stay energized.
What are your essential picks for a home workout space/wellness sanctuary?
My essentials are a 35-lb kettlebell, a yoga mat and a pair of 15-lb weights.
These items allow for full-body strength, mobility and endurance training in any space.
Do you have any advice for incorporating movement or workouts into a smaller space?
Focus on bodyweight exercises like squats, lunges and push-ups, which require little room. Compact equipment like resistance bands or a kettlebell can add variety without taking up much space.
What should you focus on while incorporating movement/ exercise into your daily life?
Consistency is key—show up daily for some form of movement, no matter how small. Prioritize enjoying the process and building strength and mobility rather than just focusing on time or numbers.
thrivefit.co
You donʼt always have to leave home to get that workout in.
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All That JAZ
WRITTEN & PHOTOGRAPHED BY BILL ECKLUND
MEET JASMIN PANTOJA , OWNER OF MAMBOJAZ , AND A MAJOR DRIVING FORCE IN THE LANCASTER DANCE COMMUNITY
This past January, dance studio teacher Jasmin Pantoja learned a new dance step, that is, stepping into the role of studio owner. The instructor at the former Move It Studio, in downtown Lancaster, became the space’s new owner. She renamed it Mambojaz Studio, reflecting her deep love for Latin dance and her cultural heritage.
Much like her grace on the dance floor, the move was a natural transition in a life immersed in dance and music. Pantoja was born and raised in the Bronx, New York, to parents of Puerto Rican ancestry. Her father was a musician in a salsa band in the 1970s, and her mom, she remembers fondly, loved to dance. “She never took dance classes or anything like that, but she loved to dance. The music would be playing, and my mom would be twirling,” Pantoja recalls, “and we would be twirling together.”
When Pantoja was 9 years old, she began taking dance classes at the Kips Bay Boys and Girls Club. It was there that she fell in love with dance, learning all of its forms, including jazz, modern, salsa, mambo, hip-hop, ballet and African. It was also there, learning and performing until she graduated from high school, that she studied and worked with Maria and Eddie Torres, legendary figures in the world of mambo, and performed with Tito Puente and in the National Puerto Rican Day Parade in New York City.
Live a life in dance and you learn that dance often mirrors the life you live. If dance has its bursts of spirited energy, it also has moments of stillness, the pause between steps. Pantoja has lived them both, and it was after high school that she stood still before her next move. In this transition time, Pantoja stopped dancing, got married, moved to Lancaster, became a stay-at-home mom and faced the challenges of both uterine cancer and lymphocytopenia, a condition affecting the white blood cells. The medications caused her weight to reach almost 300 pounds.
Slowly, she began to recover and find her way back through social dance, rediscovering the Latin dance community she missed so much. The catalyst that changed her life was a request to put together a 45-minute Latin dance program at the 2022 One World Festival. One of the festival’s biggest donors is the Lancaster County Community Foundation—where Marie Cleaves Rothacker, the former owner of Move It Studio, just happened to work.
“She approached me afterwards,” Pantoja says, “and she was like, ‘Who are you? Where have you come from? Why don't I know you?’ Because she knows so many people in the dance community out here, [but] she didn't know who I was.”
Rothacker asked if she would be willing to come to the studio and teach a class. Pantoja took her up on the offer, and her classes quickly grew bigger. Soon, she and Rothacker began talking about Pantoja becoming the owner of the studio.
The other driving force that led her back to her life’s passion was the death of her father prior to being asked to take part in the festival.
“LIVE A LIFE IN DANCE & YOU LEARN THAT dance OFTEN MIRRORS THE LIFE YOU LIVE.
“
“My dad ended up in the hospital suddenly, and he never came back out,” she says. “One of the last conversations I actually had with him, we were talking about dance. He asked me, ‘Why aren't you dancing anymore?’” When Pantoja explained to him that she couldn’t find anything for herself in the Lancaster area, he urged her on: “‘Then you need to make a home for yourself.’” A month later, she got the call to participate in the festival, and, as she says, “the rest was history.”
Now the owner of Mambojaz, Pantoja hopes that adults in the community never find themselves in the place she was when she told her father why she wasn’t dancing. She wants them to know that there’s a community of dancers here, and it’s thriving and welcoming. “I want to make sure that health and movement
and fitness are here for all ages, all levels, all types. There really is something for everyone here,” she says. To that end, Mambojaz will be part fitness, part pure dance, keeping the most popular fitness classes while adding more dance classes for adults, more Latin-based dance, and performance recitals.
Pantoja’s “something for everyone” inclusiveness has a deeper dimension tempered by her own experiences in dance. “I’m a plus-sized girl … I feel like being more thick is more accepted now,” she says. “And I felt that Latin dance was always a little bit more forgiving with being curvy. And I think that’s another reason why I connected with it,” she adds passionately. “I’m just really hoping that this is some place that can grow and continue to be a home to any adult who feels that movement is something that they would love to do, but didn’t think they could do. I want them to understand that, whatever it is that they choose, whether it's fitness classes or it’s dance classes, that they can come in as they are, and we’re here to accept them the way that they are. … We’re not here to change them. We’re just here to make them stronger.”
One thing Pantoja doesn’t dance around is her belief in the power of community and friendships born in the studio, in a sense, the way it speaks to the whole person, to mental as well as physical well-being. “People utilize movement and dance and fitness … as a way to let go of a lot of things that they go through in life,” she says, “and sometimes, this is the outlet that they need, whether it’s through the movement or even just through the friends and the people that they meet.” She adds, “There’s something special and so much more intimate about coming to a small studio space and really feeling like part of a family.”
Getting to
How Pelvic Floor Therapy Can Improve Your Health
BY KATY SHERO
Pelvic floor therapy experts Lisa Janson, PT, and Melissa Gillis, OTR/L MPA, are co-owners of Core Plus Pelvic Therapy in Mechanicsburg. Core Plus has been treating abdomen and pelvis disorders and conditions since 2011, offering services from therapists with more than 40 years of combined experience in their specialities. Here, Janson and Gillis share everything you need to know about pelvic floor therapy and why it may be an option for you.
QWHAT IS CORE PLUS PELVIC THERAPY?
Gillis: Core Plus Pelvic Therapy is a practice dedicated to the treatment of disorders and conditions specific to the space of our bodies known as the abdomen and pelvis. We also see women and men for conditions that interfere with the normal functioning of their pelvic region. Inside the pelvis are muscles and nerves just like everywhere else. They are just encased within the pelvic area and require more specialized rehabilitative therapy. Because we are treating the pelvis, our patients require one-to-one therapy, which is difficult to get in traditional therapy settings.
QWHAT IS PELVIC FLOOR THERAPY?
Janson: Pelvic floor therapy (aka pelvic health therapy) is an area of therapy focusing on correcting or improving issues that may have affected oneʼs pelvic floor muscles and/or abdominal core muscles.
From the Mayo Clinic website: Pelvic floor disorders affect many people. Up to 25% of adults have urinary incontinence, pelvic pain, pelvic pressure, sexual problems or pelvic organ prolapse. The risk can increase with age, during or after pregnancy or for people who suffer from chronic constipation.
QWHAT SERVICES DOES CORE PLUS PELVIC THERAPY OFFER?
Janson: After we complete an initial evaluation (which includes a thorough history, physical exam and review of our patient's goals), we determine the best treatment plan. Our treatment plan is very specific for each patient, and education is paramount for all diagnoses. We want each patient to understand the ‘whys and hows’ of their diagnosis and treatment.
Gillis: We offer occupational and physical therapy with treatments that include manual therapy, functional exercises and stretching, scar management, ultrasound, electrical stimulation, and lots of education on breath management, posture, positioning and functional recovery.
QDESCRIBE YOUR CLIENTELE & WHO SEEKS YOUR SERVICES.
Janson: We provide services to men and women of all ages. Over the last few years, weʼve been seeing more young women wishing to make their pregnancy, delivery experience and/or postpartum recovery as seamless as possible. We are also seeing more patients contact our office directly after hearing from a friend or family member about our services. We also have been receiving referrals from a very diverse physician population (initially our referrals came mostly from gynecologists, urologists and gastroenterologists). Our specialty is becoming known.
Gillis: Diagnoses that you might hear include urinary or fecal incontinence, urinary urgency, constipation, chronic prostatitis, endometriosis, fibroids, dyspareunia, vulvodynia, pudendal neuralgia, coccydynia. We also see orthopedic conditions such as tailbone pain or posttailbone fracture.
Q WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO START THIS PRACTICE?
Janson: I have been practicing as a pelvic health PT since 1999. In 2011, two pelvic health therapist colleagues and myself realized that we could do a better job promoting pelvic health therapy while providing better services if we left the corporate outpatient setting.
Gillis: I knew back in the early 2000s that I wanted to end up treating these patients in the outpatient setting. At that time, I was in administration full time, but saw so many issues with the treatment of pelvic floor conditions that I knew this is where I belonged.
QIS THERE A STIGMA OR MISUNDERSTANDING AROUND PELVIC FLOOR THERAPY? IF SO, HOW ARE YOU WORKING TO CHANGE THAT AND EDUCATE INDIVIDUALS ON THE BENEFITS OF YOUR PRACTICE?
Janson: Certainly when we first started there was probably a stigma because people didn’t understand what we did. Although pelvic floor therapy was ‘discovered’ in the late 1970s, it wasn’t truly integrated into practice until the late 1990s. Like all new things, it has taken a long time to come into the mainstream.
“Up to 25% OF ADULTS HAVE URINARY INCONTINENCE, PELVIC PAIN, PELVIC PRESSURE,
SEXUAL PROBLEMS OR PELVIC ORGAN PROLAPSE.
“
Gillis: I think some clients may have concerns about coming to our setting because when they think of “physical” therapy, they envision a gym with lots of machines and mats. While physical functioning and exercise is a vital part of our program, most of our clients are taught exercises to do at home and are seen here one time per week.
Q WHAT WOULD YOU SAY TO SOMEONE WHO MAY BE INTERESTED IN TRYING YOUR SERVICES BUT MAY FEEL NERVOUS, HESITANT OR EVEN A BIT OF SHAME AROUND NEEDING THEM?
Janson: We are all very committed therapists, and we understand how uncomfortable talking about these sensitive issues can be. Personally, I experienced bladder control issues after a complicated delivery. I speak openly about my journey and my success. We ensure complete privacy during each and every visit. Each treatment room is completely private. We communicate our plan clearly and openly. We encourage questions and respect oneʼs limits. It is our goal to make talking about these uncomfortable issues comfortable.
Q WALK ME BRIEFLY THROUGH THE PROCESS, STARTING DAY 1, OF A CLIENT JOINING CORE PLUS PHYSICAL THERAPY.
Gillis: The patient completes standardized questionnaires and the typical intake forms related to their condition prior to seeing the therapist. Then, they are greeted and escorted back to the treatment room, where a full evaluation is performed. The patient has been educated on the pelvic floor using models that we have available. We proceed with the evaluation and then provide the patient with a home program after their first session.
Q WHAT DO MOST OF YOUR CLIENTS SAY AFTER THEY’VE GONE THROUGH YOUR PROGRAM/THERAPIES?
Gillis: Most of my clients say that they were not aware of their pelvic and abdominal region before and are happy that they are better.
Q IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU’D LIKE TO ADD OR ANYTHING YOU THINK THE READERS NEED TO KNOW?
Janson: We are a small practice, and the vibe is friendly, beginning with the first interaction on the phone or in person. Our receptionists set the stage—they are kind and welcoming. And our therapists are professional and very easy to talk with. We love what we do, and it shows!
13
RESTAURANTS
BY DEBORAH LYNCH
PHOTOGRAPHY BY KARLO GESNER
It once might have been hard to imagine that a new food hall built around the culture of diversity would pop up in downtown Red Lion, but since November, Franklin Street Social has been mixing up cuisines while also marrying nostalgia with modernity in what is proving to be the perfect setting to build a healthy community.
Red Lion was already a walkable town with green spaces and play areas as well as revitalized buildings featuring coffee shops, breweries, a wellness studio, an art market, guitar stores, a youth center and a rail trail dubbed the Red Lion Mile. When Franklin Street Social opened, it brought with it not just another great reason to walk this town, but an economic engine featuring 13 restaurant stalls and gathering spaces for friends, family and community events.
It’s not what most would expect in a typical food hall. With an internationally recognized Thai stand, and stand owners who include a firefighter, a former vegetarian/DJ/bartender known as Veg running a barbecue stand, and a 23-year-old former dishwasher turned owner of a taqueria, Franklin Street Social brings in a diversified portfolio of owners and concepts.
The measure of a community’s health looks at a variety of factors, including economic
Disease Prevention and Health Promotion has designed a Healthy People 2030 program with five goals, including this one relating to social determinants of health: “Create social, physical, and economic environments that promote attaining the full potential for health and well-being for all.”
Check, check and check at Franklin Street Social.
New Red Lion borough manager Michelle Poole first notes the physical health benefits of Franklin Street Social with a walkable location along the Red Lion Mile. Then, she points to the economic benefits of a spot that is drawing people from all over, particularly areas west and north of Red Lion—a statistics company tracked a minimum of 16,000 visits (via cell phone tracking) within the first two weeks the food hall was open. She also highlights the value for seniors whose living communities now have a destination that caters to a variety of tastes and budgets while being able to accommodate large groups who arrive en masse.
“It allows people to come in there and socialize and meet with each other in a location that allows everyone to meet their needs as far as health and food are concerned,” Poole says, adding, “I’m excited. As things are getting developed one by one—and there’s interest in other buildings in the community as well— I’m happy to see how it all develops.”
Something for everyone
A stylish young mother wearing a wide-brimmed hat with a baby on her hip and two towheaded toddlers following behind walked in the door at 11 on the dot one Wednesday and didn’t walk back out until four hours later. She and other mothers enjoyed coffee and snacks at tables while the kids jumped and ran in a unique play space tucked into a corner. Children playing and happy mothers—that’s a healthy environment.
Groups of friends sat at tables on both levels of the food emporium, enjoying steaks, shawarma and many other specialized food choices. One group of women came from York, Shrewsbury and Red Lion to meet for birria tacos. Of that group, only one was a first-timer. One was there for her fifth time, less than three weeks after it opened.
Retro-style graphics catch the eye throughout the New York subway-themed renovated
jordan ilyes
chef ethan greer THAI
1 Central Bar
former furniture factory. In particular, a poster introduces Franklin Street Social’s character mascot Frankie—or Francesca Franklin León, the full name given to her by co-owner Ethan Greer, who says she is racially ambiguous and “just a busybody who has to get to happy hour, almost like a Carmen Sandiego.” From Harlem to the Hamptons, she is imagined as an everywoman with a love of new things.
This is the vision of Greer and his co-owner Jordan Ilyes in a nutshell. “Frankie gives us this unique element for branding,” Greer says, noting that their decisions are based around “What would Frankie want to eat? What would Frankie want to drink? Are you being hosted in this space in the way that Frankie would host you in the Hamptons?”
Ilyes, whose background is in construction and development, and Greer, a chef who worked in Baltimore, Miami and in the Caribbean before opening restaurants in Dover and Hanover, agree that they sought to create a melting pot at Franklin Street Social and chose Red Lion because they wanted a neighborhood where they could create diversity in food and togetherness.
The former Ebert Furniture building was repurposed into Franklin Street Social, which also includes 88 apartments. Meanwhile, across the street, the Red Lion Table Company was also recently redeveloped by Ilyes and his development company and turned into a 98-unit luxury apartment building featuring a two-story coffee shop called Grounding as well as a two-story brewery, Black Cap Brewing Company.
A century ago, a cigar and furniture making economy fueled Red Lion. Although both industries petered out around the same time in 2011, Red Lion has been able to reinvent itself as a convenient service stop that offers more than gas for travelers not far off the major thoroughfares of routes 83 and 30.
The demographics of the community are slowly changing as well. The 2010 census found a town that was 95% white, but by 2020, that number had changed to 87%.
Embrace the change
Ilyes said the pair is “trying to impact the community with creativity for the better.”
The partners—who both graduated from Spring Grove High School, though seven years apart—were introduced by friends and quickly discovered a shared creativity. Their partnership started in Hanover where Ilyes had renovated several buildings. “I had a building, and it needed a restaurant.” Enter Greer and Greer’s Burger Garage.
Greer said the partners wanted to create a food hall that was approachable for their town and community with bold and vibrant offerings, but also one they knew would be well received. They were conscious in selecting restaurants that appeal to underserved communities in York County such as the Latino and Muslim communities. “We really had to filter through what made the most sense for Red Lion,” he says. “We want people to come here and feel welcome.”
That means that along with ethnic fare, diners can also find their American classics like hot dogs, burgers, cinnamon rolls, barbecue and mac ’n cheese.
The eclectic group of restaurateurs within Franklin Social Hall include three startups,
wild batch bakery
urban steer
seven from other markets, and three with other locations. Startups include Sweet Tooth Waffles and Munchies, Urban Steer and Mac Factory. Those in other markets include four from Southern Market in Lancaster—Layali El Sham, Akhi Sushi, 4 E’s Latin Cuisine and Noodle King; two from Central Market in York—Hefty Lefty’s and Slow and Low BBQ; and one from Broadway Market in Fells Point, Baltimore—Thai Street. Taqueria El Camino has another location in Dover, Greer’s Burger Garage operates in Dover and Hanover, and The Wild Batch Bakery has a shop in Wrightsville. Greer owns all Greer’s Burger Garages and recently sold Taqueria El Camino to 23-year-old Wendy Stone, his former employee.
Downstairs, the building’s history is preserved via a rail from the railroad track that was left inside the factory and now serves as the foot rail at The Rail Bar, owned by Ilyes and Greer. Inspired by the Ma and Pa Railroad (Maryland and Pennsylvania Railroad) that used to run beside the building, the bar features pre-batched cocktails made weekly from fresh ingredients and Pennsylvania spirits by a startup handcrafted cocktail business called A Casual Beverage. Ilyes built tables from the former Spring Grove High School basketball court.
Each vendor brings a unique story and helps to create a destination dining experience that Greer calls “Instagrammable.” With an adult slide, a kids’ play space, real cloth towels in the uniquely designed bathrooms and loads of comfy couches and tables, Franklin Street Social is meeting Greer’s and Ilyes’ goal to “offer something for everybody.”
In doing so, they are also helping to build a new, more walkable and healthier version of Red Lion, which is no longer just a convenient offthe-highway stop, but a destination.
717-912-6101
franklinstsocial.com
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Our home industry spotlights are a chance to discover some of the creative home experts in the Susquehanna Valley.
Since 1995, we’ve been a trusted family-owned business dedicated to providing durable, lowmaintenance outdoor products that stand the test of time. Our commitment to quality and exceptional service ensures our customers receive products that not only enhance their homes but also deliver longterm value. Backed by industry-leading warranties and decades of experience, we make it easy to invest in products you can rely on for life. With us, you’re choosing a partner who prioritizes excellence and customer satisfaction every step of the way. We look forward to making your outdoor dreams come true!
LANDMARK HOMES
YOUR DREAM HOME, YOUR WAY: ENDLESS CHOICES WITH LANDMARK HOMES
At Landmark Homes, we believe building your dream home should be all about you. Since 1998, our award-winning family-owned company has empowered homebuyers with an unparalleled range of choices to create the perfect living space.
We’ve woven choice into every step of the journey. From selecting the perfect location and floor plan to personalizing every detail, we ensure your home reflects your unique style and needs. With nearly 50 flexible home designs and thousands of customization options, you have the freedom to build a home that’s truly yours.
We understand that a house isn’t just a place to live, it’s the foundation for life’s best moments. With a steadfast commitment to excellence, craftsmanship and personalized service, we make sure your new home is the start of something truly special—something to be truly cherished for years to come.
Whether you’re seeking a modern townhome, a vibrant 55+ community or a spacious single-family home, our thoughtfully designed communities across Central Pennsylvania offer exceptional options to fit your lifestyle. Looking to build on your own land? We’ve got that covered, too.
Discover the freedom to choose with Landmark Homes. Whether you’re building from the ground up or exploring our move-in-ready options, we’re here to help bring your dream home to life, your way!
IRONSTONE BUILDING MATERIALS
When GR Mitchell’s owner Tom Keller acquired Ironstone Building Materials, he recognized it as a game changer for expanding the company’s decking and railing offerings. Staffed with product experts and stocked with endless options, shopping at Ironstone makes it easy to bring your outdoor vision to life. Conveniently located in Lancaster, Ironstone is the go-to destination for decking, railing, and everything needed to create an outdoor oasis that’s beautiful, functional and budget-friendly.
Local builders and remodelers trust Ironstone as the premier source for the best decking and railing brands, like Trex. With a warehouse and yard brimming with a wide selection, Ironstone’s inventory has you covered. Whether you’re refreshing a poolside deck or gearing up for grilling season, their unmatched selection has everything you need to create a stunning and functional outdoor space. And with treated lumber soon joining the lineup, Ironstone will truly become the one-stop-shop for outdoor projects— from framing materials to color-matched hardware.
Dreaming of a different home project? Both GR Mitchell and Ironstone can support your needs with windows, doors, cabinetry and more. Refresh an indoor space with LVP flooring, or a brand-new vanity—both stocked and
ready to pick up at Ironstone. Or take advantage of cabinetry design services available at both branches, offering stylish options fit for any budget.
Visit Ironstone on Hempland Road in Lancaster or stop by GR Mitchell’s showroom in Willow Street to explore even more home solutions. That dream outdoor space is closer than you think—with Ironstone, it’s affordable, achievable and built to last.
H to the
LOCAL Spotlights
Spotlight Your Local Business All Year Long!
Join our *Special Advertising Section* to showcase your business every month. This unique opportunity highlights a different product or service each month, offering consistent exposure and keeping your brand top of mind in the community. Whether you’re a café, boutique, or service provider, this platform connects you with local customers eager to support community-led businesses.
Stand alongside other local favorites as you share your offerings all year long. Don’t miss out on being part of this vibrant network that celebrates and supports the heart of our local economy. Secure your spot today and see your business thrive!
The Claire Chivington Team
Realty ONE Group Unlimited
415 N Prince St, Suite 100, Lancaster, PA 17603
717-482-6559 | 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!!”
E.P. Interiors
717-219-4453 | interiorsbyep.com
E.P. Interiors, founded by self-taught stylist Elyse, transforms spaces with a fresh, grand millennial flair. Known for blending timeless charm with modern practicality, Elyse helps clients create dreamworthy, personalized interiors that elevate everyday living. Contact E.P. Interiors to upgrade your space today!
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Team: Lauren Piva, Claire Chivington (leader) & Jennifer Fields
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A Taste of Japan
ASOUL RAMEN DELIVERS THE TASTE IN SLEEK STYLE
BY M. DIANE MCCORMICK | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF ASOUL RAMEN
A bit of Japan is tucked into a busy spot in Camp Hill. Step into Asoul Ramen, and the first thing you notice is the cherry blossom tree, blooming in pink and adorned with blue and pink lanterns. White lanterns illuminate the hostess desk. Counters and benches in smooth hardwoods brighten the space.
In the dining area, steam rises from heated rocks in a glass divider. Fish lanterns created from recycled paper seem to swim along the ceiling.
The owners of Asoul Ramen wanted to do more than extend their brand of authentic Asian tastes, which already included ramen and bubble tea restaurants in Camp Hill, Lancaster and York. They also wanted—and succeeded in creating—a
dining experience wrapped in an authentic aesthetic, with highly stylized décor inspired by Japanese restaurants.
Comfortable tables and a sushi bar invite pairs and groups to enjoy their meals, but the truly unique settings are the custom-designed “honeycomb” tables, each encompassed in a hexagonal frame. On an upper level reached by steep stairs, the honeycomb tables seat two, for intimate dining with a view of the floor below. Honeycomb tables on the floor level seat up to six.
Keep going toward the back, and find additional booths framed in airy dividers. Even the water tumblers evoke a Japanese icon, depicting Mount Fuji in four seasons.
“Almost all the customers ask, ‘How do you get the décor?’” manager Jonathan Dee says.
The answer is simple. The owners drew inspiration from travels to Japan and Hong Kong. The uniquely Japanese style came from contracting a Japanese designer.
Asoul Ramen delivers an elevated aesthetic to Camp Hill. It sits in a corner of the Capital City Mall, with an exterior entrance in the area where other restaurants, including Primanti Bros. and Outback, congregate.
Conveniently, a Pennsylvania Fine Wine and Spirits store is next door, allowing customers to get just the right wine or liquor for their BYOB meals.
The enticing menu leans heavily on Japanese tastes and dishes while adding dashes of Thai, Hong Kong and Chinese influences.
“We try to plan out new and unique things,” Dee says. “We’re trying to get new things all the time.”
The Chinese-style bao sandwich is a best-selling appetizer. It’s a light way to open a meal, with a fluffy roll wrapped around tender morsels of pork or chicken.
Ramen dishes based on Japanese recipes are simmered for 12 hours. The most popular is the spicy beef ramen, featuring a tasty bowl of noodles, scallion and bamboo shoots, all topped with thin, flavorful steak. Other ramens include the spicy Korean kimchi, vegetable miso, chicken (original or spicy), Japanese curry and Tokyo tonkotsu shoyu with chashu pork, marinated egg, corn, bamboo shoots, wakame, scallion and nori.
Seasonal tastes from the chef’s “Spring Awakening” menu entice with the creamy crab rangoon and the honeycomb omakase, a sampler of chili garlic edamame, lobster balls, takoyaki balls, shrimp tempura, tamagoyaki and seaweed salad, served in delightful fashion on a custom-made honeycomb-style platter.
smooth matcha red bean pudding or the creamy mango crêpe cake. Plans are underway to offer ice cream and smoothies in Asian flavors, including green tea and lychee.
Since opening in October 2024, Asoul Ramen has attracted an eclectic clientele. Parents bring their children. Mall customers sit down after their shopping excursions. Date night couples cozy up in the honeycomb booths. Diners order from tablets at their tables, with choices of combo meals or customizing each dish
The diverse Asoul Ramen menu appeals to
A Bite of Luck
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day or honor your Irish roots with these three lucky recipes for hosting, snacking and enjoying in the home or on the go.
RECIPES AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY
A-YO KITCHEN
SCALLION BOXTY
An Irish twist on a potato pancake. Typically topped with sour cream and served with a variety of proteins, like bacon, smoked salmon or poached eggs.
1 cup prepared mashed potatoes
1 cup raw, shredded potato, Yukon preferred
1 cup buttermilk
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
2 scallions, finely chopped
1 tsp garlic salt
1 tsp baking soda
Fresh ground black pepper to taste 2-4 tbsp butter
OPTIONAL GARNISH:
Sour cream, plain Greek yogurt, scallions, chives or crumbled bacon
Instructions
In a large bowl, whisk together mashed potatoes and buttermilk until smooth.
Add in all the rest of the ingredients except shredded potatoes. Mix until smooth.
Peel and shred potatoes. Place in cold water and rinse off starch.
With a dishcloth, squeeze out all excess water. Mix into flour mixture until smooth.
In a large skillet on medium-low, melt a tablespoon of butter for frying.
Spoon in 1-2 tablespoon dollops of potato mixture. Smooth out tops and make circle shapes with spoon.
TIP: A great way to use leftover mashed potatoes! This recipe works well with leeks
Alysha Yoder is the photographer, food stylist, blogger and recipe developer behind A-Yo Kitchen. With a passion for all things food, many of her recipes are inspired by her worldly travels, her many cooking classes abroad and all the veggies and fruits her home gardens produce. She has been a photographer for 15-plus years and previously worked in the corporate food sector for almost 10. She now is a small business owner running her studio, A-Yo Kitchen, out of York, PA, where she serves not only local clients, but those worldwide as well. ayokitchen.com , ayokitchen@gmail.com , @ayokitchen
Cook each side 2-4 minutes on medium-low, until golden brown. Flip over and press down with spatula.
Repeat this process with all the batter.
Top with garnishes and serve!
STEAK & MUSHROOM STOUT PIE
The perfect grab-and-go meal to make ahead of time. This is a great hearty treat for the winter season!
3 tbsp butter
1 large sweet onion, diced
2 carrots, peeled and diced
8 oz portabella mushrooms, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 lb steak, diced
½ tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
¼ cup fresh chopped parsley
Fresh ground pepper and salt to taste
1 tbsp packed brown sugar
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp Worcester sauce
2 tbsp tomato paste
3 tbsp flour
1 ½ cups beef stock
1 cup dark stout beer
2 premade rolled pie crusts
1 egg
Instructions
In a large skillet on medium-high heat, melt butter and add all chopped veggies. Once onions are translucent, add in diced steak with thyme, rosemary, parsley, ground pepper and salt to taste, brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, and soy and Worcester sauces.
Once steak browns and liquids absorb, add in tomato paste. Stir to combine.
Add flour and stir for a minute or two to cook off the flour flavor. Slowly pour in beef stock and beer while stirring continuously.
Stir until everything is combined.
Bring to a boil and then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 60 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6.
While beef is cooking, roll out pie crusts to form a rectangle. This makes four 6-inch pies or 12 hand pies (use a large muffin tin).
Cut out circles for pie tops and then use the scraps to press into the bottom of each pie dish. Once the beef mixture has cooked for an hour, there should be no liquid left, and it should be thick.
Preheat oven to 325°F.
Divide beef into pies.
Beat egg and brush edges of each pie with it.
Place crust circles on top of pies, and crimp edges with a fork.
Cut vent hole in the top of each pie. Brush pie tops with remaining egg mixture.
Place in oven, uncovered, for 30 minutes. Then cover with a sheet of foil and bake at 300°F for 20 more minutes. Pies should be golden brown and cooked through.
Remove from oven, allow to set for 5-10 minutes, and then enjoy!
TIP: For added veggies, throw in some frozen peas or spinach!
VANILLA SHORTBREAD
A classic Irish shortbread cookie can’t be beat! Best for a sweet treat or alongside a cup of tea.
1 cup butter, softened, Irish or good-quality European
½ cup white sugar + 2 tbsp for sprinkling
1 tsp vanilla extract
¼ tsp salt
2 + ¼ cup flour + ¼ cup for rolling
½ cup cornstarch
1. 2. 3. 4. Instructions
In a stand mixer, cream together butter and sugar until smooth. Add vanilla and salt, and mix until creamy. Slowly add in flour and cornstarch. Mix until firm and not sticky. If dough is sticky, add ¼ cup more flour.
On a floured surface, roll out dough. You can cut into
rectangles or any cookie shape now, or form an even rectangle that you’ll cut bars from.
Place cut cookies on a sheet tray and cover, or wrap up your rectangle.
Place in fridge for 12 or more hours. Preheat oven to 350°F. If you have a rectangle of dough, cut bars that are ¼-inch thick.
TIP: Add a few drops of your favorite extract for different shortbread flavors, like almond, cherry or lemon!
Poke holes in the center so cookies release steam and get extra crispy. Lightly sprinkle with sugar.
Bake for 13-15 minutes, until edges start turning golden brown. Remove cookies, let set for 5 minutes, and then place on a cooling rack. Enjoy for up to 7 days.
5 HouseplantsTO OBSESS OVER IN 2025
BY KATY SHERO
Houseplants are a wonderful way to enrich any space. They’re lively, vibrant and have an array of health benefits. Turn your home into a plant paradise this year with these five trendy houseplants that are as good for the soul as they are for the eyes! 4
2
PONYTAIL PALM
1
If you’re like us, you sometimes (or more than sometimes) forget to water your plants. No problem with pothos! Pothos adapts to your space and thrives on a little TLC—or none at all. If there’s one plant that defines “lowmaintenance luxury,” it’s this one. This versatile vine comes in a variety of vibrant colors, from deep green to variegated gold and white, and it can grow just about anywhere in your home. Hang it high, let it trail from a shelf, or let it climb up a trellis. It’s basically the plant equivalent of that chill friend who always looks great without even trying.
Put the ponytail palm in any space, and you’re guaranteed to get a compliment. This quirky, cool and eclectic plant brightens up any room, but it needs lots of light to do so. And although it’s a plant with a bold personality, it can live in harmony with even those who don’t have a green thumb. Whether your ponytail palm is perched on a bookshelf, standing proudly in a corner, or just sitting on your desk, it adds a touch of tropical charm and whimsy to any space—and it certainly is a conversation starter.
3
ZZ PLANT
ZZ plant, or Zanzibar gem, is called a gem for a reason. Coworking spaces, coffee shops, the internet—this plant is everywhere, and truly hard to miss. You probably cross paths with several ZZ plants every week and secretly admire them, without even knowing their name. With its glossy dark green leaves and effortlessly chic vibe, the ZZ plant is making waves in the world of indoor gardening. Some other fun facts are that its super low-maintenance, native to Africa and can survive off little water thanks to its potato-like rhizomes that store water. If you haven’t joined the ZZ plant trend yet, now’s the perfect time to add one to your collection.
HOYA
The hoya, aka the wax plant, is the perfect low-maintenance plant pal, yet it ʼs strikingly stunning. Its leaves are waxy and thick, and there are more than 520 species of hoya, each with its own unique features to match any room or aesthetic. The plant’s popularity has soared thanks to social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok, with various creators and interior designers showcasing how their hoyas thrive in their spaces. And don’t forget how easy they are to care for. Hoyas are drought tolerant and prefer to dry out between waterings, ideal for people who may not have the time or expertise to tend to more finicky plants. They do well in indirect light and in a variety of indoor environments, from low-light apartments to sun-soaked windowsills.
VARIEGATED MONSTERA
The National Garden Bureau calls 2025 the Year of the Monstera, and we couldn’t agree more. Sometimes referred to as the Swiss cheese plant, the monstera has captured the hearts of plant lovers everywhere. The variegated monstera takes the beloved Swiss cheese plant to the next level with its stunning marbled leaves that feature a mix of deep green and creamy white or yellow streaks. This rare and highly sought-after variety is celebrated for its unique, eye-catching appearance, where no two leaves are exactly the same. While the care requirements are similar to the standard monstera—preferring bright indirect light and occasional watering—the variegated version needs a little extra attention. Whether you're an experienced plant parent or a beginner, this plant adds zest and elegance to any space.
You shouldn’t have to compromise between a home you love and a neighborhood with character. With Charter, you get both. We are passionate about creating places where people love to live. In fact, since 1990 we’ve created some of the most sought after neighborhoods throughout Pennsylvania. To see what single-family, first-floor carriage homes and townhomes are available in the Charter Neighborhood near you, visit charterhomes.com/centralPA.
