Every time you brighten your smile at WHITE FAMILY DENTAL , between March and June, children benefit through the Smiles for Life program. To date, White Family Dental has raised over $600,000 for children. This year we will add more bright smiles to central Pennsylvania and put smiles on children’s faces too.
For more details on Smiles for Life or to schedule your appointment to whiten your smile, call any of our offices.
PUBLISHER Jocelyn Engle
EDITOR
Suzanne Starling-Long Sue@lancastercountymag.com
ART DIRECTOR
Ashley Kendrick Kennedy Ashley@lancastercountymag.com
ASSISTANT EDITOR
Kaylee Rex Kaylee@lancastercountymag.com
MARKETING DIRECTOR
Rachel Stebbins Rstebbins@engleonline.com
REGULAR CONTRIBUTORS
WRITERS
Dr. Richard L. Bitner Jill Brown
Rochelle A. Shenk
Michael C. Upton
Kathleen Wagner
FLOORING hardwood, luxury vinyl, carpet, tile, sheet vinyl AREA RUGS custom sizes, oval, circle, rectangle, square, runners
TILE showers, back splashes, walls, fireplaces, pet showers, built-in cabinets, pools, patios, entryways, mudrooms
WINDOW TREATMENTS blinds, shutters, shades, draperies, valances, sheers, fabric panels
CUSTOM ACCENTS seat cushions, bedding, pillows
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Jordan Bush
Nick Gould
Kirk Zutell
ADVERTISING INFORMATION
717-492-2525
SALES MANAGER
Greg March Gmarch@engleonline.com
ACCOUNT REPRESENTATIVES
Karen Stoltzfus Karen@lancastercountymag.com
Tracy Allison Tracy@lancastercountymag.com
PRODUCED & PUBLISHED BY Engle Printing & Publishing Co., Inc.
PROUD MEMBER OF:
Lancaster County Magazine is published monthly. Statements and opinions are the responsibility of the authors alone and do not imply an opinion on the part of Lancaster County Magazine
Materials are copyrighted and may not be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Suggestions welcome. Single copy price $2.95 (discounts available on quantity orders). Subscription price is $16.95 for 12 issues. Use address below.
Lancaster County Magazine P.O. Box 500 Mount Joy, PA 17552
Lancastercountymag.com
FOR SUBSCRIPTION INFO: 717-492-2556
I’m probably among the few people who consider March to be one of their favorite months. I like it for the promise it holds – there’s a hint of spring in the air, plants are starting to pop, farmers are prepping their fields, lambs are being born, the March Madness basketball tournament begins and it will soon be time to change out my throw pillows, or better yet, buy some new ones.
I’m one of those people who is obsessed with throw pillows. I have a large closet that is filled with them. Sometimes I’ll just go to HomeGoods or the Prussian Street Arcade and wander around the pillow displays. Wherever I travel, scoping out throw pillows is on the agenda. Even the internet is aware of my obsession … ads for pillows constantly pop up on my social media feeds.
TWO YEARS AGO, I hit the holy grail. I would be spending Fourth of July weekend in Charleston, South Carolina. My son, Charlie, asked
if there was anything in particular I wanted to see or do while we were there. There was only one place I wanted to go – Sewing Down South. For those of you who don’t follow reality TV, Sewing Down South is owned by Craig Conover, who stars on Bravo’s Southern Charm. Craig, who is from Fenwick Island in Delaware, landed in Charleston to attend law school. He exorcized the stresses of studying for the bar by sitting at a sewing machine and making pillows.
Granted, his initial efforts were kind of sad; even the grand dame of the show, Patricia Altschul (whose house I found during last summer’s trip), poopooed them (maybe because she was in the process of launching her own line of pillows).
He also received pushback from his girlfriend at the time, Naomie, who was growing concerned that he seemed to be devoting more time to the sewing machine and less time to the books. It became obvious she was feeling trepidation at the prospect of marrying a guy who sews as opposed to one who practices law. Craig’s whiny tagline became, “What’s wrong with my sewing?” (You have to hear him say it to get the full effect.) Despite Patricia and Naomie’s dismissive attitudes, Craig thought his pillows had potential. And, so, he sewed on.
FEMALE FANS OF the show felt sorry for Craig and began asking if they could buy his handiwork. The growing demand for his pillows prompted Craig to launch a lucrative online business that constantly sold out of products. Two years ago, he opened a gorgeous store on King Street in Charleston. Since then, Sewing Down South’s signature fabrics appear not only on pillows, but on pet items, blankets/ throws, towels, aprons, oven mitts and
more. Craig has also expanded into apparel (including items with his signature saying on them) and home fragrances. He has partnered with Thomasville Furniture, HSN and Fred Meyer to create special pillow collections. Last summer, Sewing Down South pillows debuted at select HomeGoods stores. (Thus far, no dice in Lancaster … I keep my eyes open!) He also wrote a book, Pillow Talk.
PRIOR TO LEAVING for Charleston, I called, texted and emailed the store (numerous times) to make certain it would be open July 4. Late that afternoon, Charlie and I walked in and were like two kids in a candy store. It was the day Charlie experienced a genetic transference and became obsessed with pillows. It was as if lightning struck! It was a bummer Craig wasn’t there, but we didn’t care. We were in pillow heaven and had to touch everything. We made our selections and headed off to join family and watch the fireworks over Charleston Harbor.
A few months later, I was in North Carolina to spend Thanksgiving with Charlie and his wife, Jen. The sofa overflowed with pillows. One afternoon, I noticed a UPS truck in the driveway and asked Jen if she was expecting a delivery. “It’s probably one of Charlie’s @#$% pillows,” she responded.
She was right. When he arrived home, he ripped into the box and proudly displayed a new addition to the Sewing Down South collection. When she questioned why he bought that particular pillow, he reported it was on sale plus who wouldn’t want a pillow with a palm tree wrapped in holiday lights for their very own? Jen says she is giving up on decorating and letting Charlie have full control.
LAST JULY, I was back in North Carolina. On our way to Bald Head Island, Charlie said we had to make a stop in Southport. He had found the most darling shop that carries pillows from a company called LuckyBird, which is based in Mississippi. Their pillows are genius! They are dotted with four strategically placed buttons onto which decorative “swaps” can be attached. There are hundreds – heck, maybe thousands – of possibilities. Of course, I had to have one. Thus far, I’ve ordered three swap attachments for it.
Then, in August, we went to the farmers/makers market that is held at the Avon Pier on Hatteras Island. We oohed and aahed over a maker’s coastal-inspired pillows. Naturally, we had to inspect and discuss each one. The maker just kind of stood and stared at us. “Is something wrong?” I asked. “No,” she replied. “I’ve just never met a guy who is so into pillows.” We bought several and told her to check out Sewing Down South’s website.
Last fall, I did two Best Kept Secrets tours with friends. Of course, I was on the lookout for pillows. I restrained myself but made notes in the tour booklet of shops I need to return to. Oh, and I’ve also been perusing LuckyBird’s website for spring swaps. I also bought a commemorative Poppy the Groundhog pillow (hey, it supports a good cause).
A friend suggested that I buy a sewing machine and make my own pillows, but I have bad memories of home-ec class in high school. I was so lacking in sewing skills that I would sneak projects out so that one of my aunts could make them presentable.
Besides, as Craig would probably say, “Sew what! It’s much more fun to shop!”
When a Lancaster couple purchased a property along the Severn River in Annapolis, they relied on Kathy Shenk of Interior Fancies, as well as other Lancaster-area companies, to update the house and transform it into their dream home away from home. See how Kathy was able to combine their differing style preferences – he likes traditional, she likes contemporary – and add touches of coastal to create a getaway that is perfect for entertaining and relaxing by the water.
An obsession with throw pillows!
Michael Upton explores towns and a county called Lancaster in Ohio, New York and Virginia.
With St. Patrick’s Day fast approaching, Jordan Bush explores the man behind the legend and delves into modern-day Irish cuisine courtesy of Chef JP McMahon’s The Irish Cookbook
Rochelle Shenk visits Blue Collar Restaurant, Bar & Catering, which is located at Four Seasons Golf Club in East Hempfield. The completely remodeled restaurant features an eclectic menu and a fun, casual atmosphere.
Kaylee Rex shares information about five events that are sure to help you banish cabin fever.
Live music, theatre, art gallery and museum exhibits, art/craft/maker shows, outdoor activities and fundraising events are back on the calendar. Visit our website, lancastercountymag.com, to make plans and order tickets for upcoming events.
The approach of spring signals that it’s time to “feather our nests” and carry out those homeremodeling, painting, decorating and landscaping projects we’ve been contemplating. Meet the professionals, retailers and service providers that can help you accomplish your goals.
Donald and Vivian Doolittle moved to Willow Valley Communities to experience the exceptional lifestyle our residents have been enjoying for nearly 40 years. “We experience more of what we love without thinking about the details,” say the Doolittles. Stunning residences, award-winning amenities, and the peace of mind of Lifecare help turn each day into an opportunity for residents to pursue the lifestyle they desire. “We live a wonderful, carefree life. Willow Valley Communities makes it all possible.”
Explore Willow Valley Communities today.
If you didn’t know any better, you might think you’re in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and not Lancaster, Ohio. Actually, the Lancaster in Ohio was named after the Lancaster
We’ve all heard it before, the verbal butchering of our city and county name, Lancaster. Emphases on the wrong syllables. Strangely hard consonants and irregular drawn-out vowels. Defense of our pronunciation is so ingrained in our communal psyche that we even have T-shirts and bumper stickers explaining how to say … Lank KISS stir. After some traveling, I realized a few neighboring states have their own Lancasters, all of which have their own pronunciations.
Theplace name of Lancaster heralds back to Lancashire, England. Colonial pioneer, John Wright, named this area after his homeland. Nestled on the banks of the River Lune as it opens into Morecambe Bay, the Lancaster city 55 miles north of Manchester and Liverpool has few geographic similarities to our Lancaster (the Lancaster County Prison being an exception). I was curious if we shared anything in common with the surrounding Lancasters in New York, Ohio and Virginia.
My discovery of these nearby Lancasters started in Ohio, when I found myself traveling to a woodland getaway. I had flown into Columbus and headed toward the Hocking Hills when I passed
through Lancaster. I came to learn this Lancaster is actually named after Lancaster, Pennsylvania – and is proudly pronounced nearly the same way!
First organized in 1800 as New Lancaster, the town predates the state of Ohio and was formed from land tracts earned by a pioneer named Ebenezer Zane. The first settlers to make New Lancaster home were German immigrants from Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
Today, historic preservation is key in Lancaster and visitors take notice right away, says Visit Fairfield County director, Jonett Haberfield, who runs Lancaster’s tourism agency. Much of the downtown’s restoration and preservation is a result of the Main Street America program, which Jonett credits for the area’s current prosperity. Downtown furthers its
historic presentations with three noteworthy museums: the Decorative Arts Center of Ohio, which offers exhibits, educational programs and events; The Sherman House Museum, birthplace of Civil War General William Tecumseh Sherman; and the Ohio Glass Museum.
Glass is a big thing around here. A successful glass industry is fueled by the abundance of natural gas in the area; there are small oil and gas wells dotting the countryside, seemingly in almost every rural yard and field. Lancaster is home to one of the largest producers of glassware in the United States, Anchor Hocking Glassware. “We make glass here,” explains Jonett. “We have a lot of resources under the ground and that has helped make Lancaster a glass town. We have a lot of art, because glass can be an art.” Indeed, I tried my hand at
glass blowing at the Jack Pine Studio in nearby Laurelville.
Historic preservation also made Lancaster’s Fairfield County home to the most original covered bridges in Ohio. Several bridges are in Downtown Lancaster. In addition to the familiar presence of covered bridges, I could not feel too far away from home as I continued to see signs for Amish markets and furniture for sale. Most of the Amish in Ohio, whose population is second only to ours, migrated from Somerset County starting in the 1800s. The Amish community is concentrated in one Ohio county north of Lancaster, but compared to Pennsylvania, it seems to me their influence and members have spread out greatly.
In the summer, Lancaster is abuzz with an open-air art trail, a collection of great restaurants and several festivals and events. The largest gathering, Lancaster Festival, is a 10day music and arts celebration that tends to serve as a homecoming event for those who may have moved out of town. The multi-venue festival, which kicks off with an art walk at the end of July, is like our Roots & Blues Festival
and LAUNCH but with art, too.
“We have an orchestra here in Lancaster and members come from all over the country,” says Jonett. “They bring in headliners and well-known jazz artists.”
Visiting Lancaster, Ohio, is easy with the use of the Visit Fairfield County Ohio app, which provides onetouch access to several fun challenges, current and upcoming events and local trails. Trails include the Covered Bridge Country Wine Trail, the Route 33 Brew Trail and others focused on coffee, sweets, art and antiques.
For more information: visitfairfieldcounty.org
In Virginia, the land forms three fingers where the Rappahannock, York and James rivers empty into the Chesapeake Bay. Colloquially called “necks,” the northernmost of the three formations goes by Virginia’s Northern Neck, which is two hours south of Washington, D.C., and almost as far
east from Richmond. This is where Lancaster County, Virginia, is located.
Lancaster County is located in a sparsely populated neck of Eastern Virginia. Kilmarnock and Irvington are the two biggest towns, so I took a ride down to check out what they were all about. I made a quick stop in Kilmarnock and found a busy Main Street lined with all sorts of shops, antique dealers and eateries. Named after the city of the same name in Scotland, Kilmarnock was first settled in the mid-1600s, but it was not named until the late 1700s when a Scottish businessman decided to brand it a home away from home. The healthy Main Street is the result of a 2006 revitalization plan.
A short four-mile drive along a road lined with tall pine trees and modest mid-century homes with huge front yards brought me to my next destination. I spent most of my extended weekend in Irvington, having nestled into my lodgings at The Tides Inn, a waterfront resort exuding old-school charm while embracing modern amenities. Beyond luxurious linens, creative cocktails and onsite
Clockwise from top left:
In Lancaster County, Virginia, The Tides Inn is playing an instrumental role in restoring and sustaining the oyster population. The inn offers hands-on educational trips relating to oysters to its guests.
Irvington is home to two trails, one of which is focused on art and the other dedicated to oysters.
In New York, Lancaster is both a town and a village within a town.
The Lancaster Historical Society makes its home in a home that was once owned by a prominent doctor and was the first in the area to have electricity. Lancaster, New York, is a suburb of Buffalo, hence the snow that greeted us.
The Lancaster Opera House, which dates to 1897, was used as a factory for assembling parachutes during World War II. Today it is a community center whose stage is used by a wide range of organizations including theater and music groups.
experiences, what impressed me most about The Tides Inn is their waterfront restoration project. Ownership has invested $3.6 million in restoring the shoreline of Carter’s Creek to help sustain oyster populations. The resort offers hands-on, educational trips on the water with an in-house ecologist. Other ecological programs espouse the benefits of the Maryland blue crab, honeybees and local birds.
The Tesla I rented for the weekend needed charging, so we walked when we left the inn’s grounds. We also could have jumped on the free-use bikes provided by the inn; it’s that kind of place. At first glance, Irvington seems to have little going on, but walking around allowed us to meet some locals who were eager to share the highlights of their little town. Irvington is artsy, but it is a mellow kind of artsy – high end, but not looking down their noses at strangers just browsing. Irvington is a hub for the Northern Neck Artisan Trail sponsored by the Artisans Center of Virginia. At last count, this section of the trail was populated by 17 painters and craftspeople and is home to eight venues or art centers and incorporates 24 restaurants, agriartisans and specialty farms. We met many members of this last group at the Irvington Farmers Market.
The open-air market takes place on the first Saturday of the month from May through November. There is a reason this event is frequently named Best Farmers Market on Virginia’s East Coast by Virginia Living Magazine. For me, that reason is the food. There are plenty of crafts, art and fresh produce, but I am always looking to engage in some new tastes – like pig lotion and oink juice. Those are the rub and sauce on Mooch’s BBQ. These dedicated folks make the 5+ hour drive from Charlotte, North Carolina, to set up at the farmers market and deliver some great eats! My favorite was the Mac & Mooch Bowl, which I enjoyed while local musicians played in the gazebo.
Lancaster County is a ripe spot along the Virginia Oyster Trail. Virginia is for oyster lovers and this area is packed with likeminded bivalve enthusiasts every November for the Urbanna Oyster Festival. Throughout the year, the best place to get oysters in
Irvington is Byrd’s Seafood Co., a food truck and catering enterprise. If fresh, fried oysters are not on the menu, a soft crab taco will suffice. Part of the trail’s Middle Bay Western Shore region, Lancaster County embraces aspects of eco-tourism and most restaurants source their seafood locally. For more information: virginia.org.
In western New York, Lancaster, which is essentially a suburb of Buffalo,
is both a town and a village within a town. My first stop in the Village was at Lancaster Coffee Co. & Café, where I was hoping to snag some merch and confuse all my friends back home at the similarly named Coffee Co. Lancaster. Turns out they did not have any shirts in my size.
After a hot chai latte (because there was two feet of snow on the ground during my visit), I joined up with a tour guide from Explore Buffalo who led me and my family on a two-hour historic walking tour of the village. Equipped
with a wealth of knowledge about local architecture, a sense of historical importance and hometown insight, our guide met us outside the whitewashed walls of the Lancaster Historical Society. The building, once home to a prominent doctor and the first building to have electricity in the area, was relocated to a quiet side street to save it from progress. Throughout the years, the people of Lancaster have endeavored to save its old buildings – failing sometimes and finding success with others. Soon into her speech, our guide used a word resonating with Lancaster, Pennsylvania –renaissance.
While ours is a long-running revival, the Village of Lancaster’s rebirth is just beginning. Drawing on a $1 million grant from the state, Lancaster has revitalized a strip of downtown along Central Avenue and literally put the road back on Main Street. Central Avenue is now a mix of a quaint downtown and bustling city center with boutiques, the coffee shop I first stopped at and apartments above professional offices. Up until a few years ago, Main Street was only half here. Developers in the 1970s drew on
the idea of urban renewal by literally chopping the sloping Main Street in half and constructing a massive department store in the breach. The dead-end Main Street never really worked, and the entire area suffered. The department store eventually closed.
Using the recently acquired state funding, the Village has rebuilt Main Street, reverting the slope into a town roundabout now used for celebrations like a New Year’s Eve ball drop. New attractions dot Main Street, including a meadery, the Greater Lancaster Museum of Firefighting (which includes engines from Bowmansville, New York) and the craft chocolatier, Dark Forest.
With its meandering history, it is hard to place a “center of town” in the Village of Lancaster, but the most recognizable structure is by far the Lancaster Opera House. Built in 1897, the four-story, clock tower-adorned structure, which was used to assemble parachutes for the war effort during WWII, now doubles as a town hall. The Opera House stage is currently used by everyone from tribute bands to local productions of iconic plays and musicals.
For more information: explorebuffalo.org.
From revitalization efforts in New York, to covered bridges in Ohio and agri-artisan endeavors in Virginia, I found many similarities to “our” Lancaster –no matter how the place names were pronounced. And I have to say, every Lancaster I visited is welcoming and friendly. There are Lancasters in 24 different states stretching from New Hampshire to California. The one in Arkansas is listed as a ghost town! I’m intrigued enough to head out on another road trip.
Remodeling contractors have been busy painting, renovating kitchens and bathrooms and transforming basements, attics and spare rooms into home offices, classrooms and hobby rooms. Business is booming for landscaping companies as backyards are being transformed into beautiful gardens and entertainment centers. If a home project or remodel is in your future, these local retailers, builders, remodelers, interior designers, landscapers and renovators are ready to help make your dream home a reality.
LUSK AND ASSOCIATES SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY is South Central Pennsylvania’s premier real estate agency, combining the experience and knowledge of their agents with the excellence of Sotheby’s International Realty. Located in Lancaster County, their sole responsibility to their clients is to make sure all their needs are met, from the first meeting to the settlement table, and after the transaction is completed. Lusk and Associates is centrally located to assist in finding that unique or exquisite property that everyone dreams about.
Imagine a landscape that is both visually appealing and environmentally sound, yet incorporates homes, businesses and recreational facilities. Imagine a community designed to provide abundant clean water, fresh air and open spaces. DAVID MILLER/ ASSOCIATES works to bring these places to life every day. DM/A combines the excitement of new vision, the interests of the community and natural resources to create works of lasting value. Their staff of professionals is versed in the disciplines of civil engineering, landscape architecture, planning, geology and surveying to fully serve their clients’ needs.
Family-owned and family-focused for almost 30 years, ASPEN HOME IMPROVEMENTS offers trusted roofing, window, door and siding replacement services. The Aspen team takes a personalized approach to each home they work on, treating every home like their own. Every product Aspen uses is proudly made in the USA and their trusted team has been rated five stars on Google and Angi’s List. Contact Aspen Home Improvements today to schedule a free (no-obligation) in-home consultation with a sales representative. Learn more about Aspen on their website or by scanning the QR code for a special message from the Aspen team!
JURA is the leader in automatic coffee machines, offering a bean-to-cup experience that is freshly ground, not capsulated. JURA machines produce the finest high-pressure-brewed coffee, espresso, cappuccino and more. Thanks to the introduction of Cold Brew Extraction Process, the new JURA Z10 is the first to prepare both hot and cold brew specialty coffees. Additional innovations include Pulse Extraction Process (P.E.P.®), which optimizes extraction time to develop the full flavor of espresso, macchiato and cortado – plus the Intelligent Water System (I.W.S.®) and integrated cleaning and maintenance systems. JURA’s app, J.O.E.® (JURA Operating Experience), allows users to operate selected machines from their phones or tablets.
Since 1932, L.H. BRUBAKER APPLIANCES AND WATER TREATMENT has been dedicated to providing excellent customer service and a knowledgeable staff. The third-generation family-owned business offers the most extensive selection in the tri-state area.
L.H. Brubaker has become your one-stop shopping experience featuring appliances and water treatment systems. Pair that with competitive pricing, service, delivery and installation, and you’ll understand why they have been in business for over 90 years. Check out one of their three locations: 340 Strasburg Pike, Lancaster; 5303 East Trindle Road, Mechanicsburg; and their newest location, 2084 Fruitville Pike, Lancaster. L.H. Brubaker looks forward to seeing you soon!
For METZLER HOME BUILDERS , 2023 is a big year. Established in 1953 by Abe and Roy Metzler, this year marks their 70th year in business, and they are now led by the fourth generation of a Metzler family member. Over the last few years, Metzler Home
Builders has spent a lot of time and energy behind the scenes discussing who they are as a company. Metzler Home Builders is excited to share with you the visual changes to their brand, but even more excited to share the ongoing story of their history, values, vision, mission and how they are #buildingforgenerations.
For the past 20 years, SHOWCASE LAWN WORKS has combined modern approaches to traditional services, revolutionizing the lawn-care industry in Southeastern Pennsylvania. Each yard is unique, requiring different methods to achieve optimal results. Showcase Lawn Works believes communication with customers every step of the way is crucial in creating family- and petfriendly lawn-care solutions. They take pride in being on the cutting edge of the industry by using the best products, machines and techniques. Their services include lawn, tree and shrub care, perimeter pest control, landscaping, aeration/ overseeding, lime application and grub, mosquito, flea and tick control.
CHOICE HOME REMODELING ’s expertise covers the entirety of your house, from exterior home improvements such as new siding and decks to interior projects such as basements and home additions. Their customized one-of-a-kind home improvements and home repair services can make your current house your dream home. With over 25 years of experience in the industry and hundreds of happy customers, Choice Home Remodeling is the home renovation company that Lancaster, Chester and Berks County homeowners depend on with full confidence. Get in touch today to request your free quote and consultation.
HALDEMAN MECHANICAL is a third-generation family-owned company proudly serving Manheim and the surrounding communities since 1939. Their team of highly experienced plumbers and service technicians provide exceptional plumbing, heating, cooling and water conditioning installation, sales and service to homeowners and businesses. Instead of charging a flat rate or diagnostic fee, they charge only for the time and materials needed to complete your job and are committed to your total satisfaction. Haldeman Mechanical offers 24-hour emergency service and annual Service Agreements to maintain your equipment. Call today at 717665-6910 to schedule an appointment or receive a quote.
GR MITCHELL ’s been a resource for both Lancaster’s homeowners and building industry professionals for over 50 years. Their True Value hardware store hosts aisles of DIY-friendly products from paint to plumbing hardware plus seasonal items for gardeners, grillers and more. And while homeowners are welcome to shop their pro items, GR Mitchell’s support for builders and remodelers has grown their name across the Susquehanna Valley. Over decades their assortment has expanded from lumber to feature cabinetry, windows, doors, trim, decking and more. Learn more about Lancaster’s favorite building-material supplier by visiting their Willow Street headquarters or online at GRMitchell.com.
Embarking on a remodel project is no small feat. There’s a lot to consider beyond your personal style goals; budget, square footage, func�onal features, contractor selec�on, etc. Having an advocate that works with you to ensure you’re taking all factors into considera�on is vital to a successful project; That’s where GR Mitchell comes in.
Their team of design experts shares over 120 years of experience and has earned the status of go-to designers for builders in the area, but working one-on-one with homeowners is a point of passion for them. Their team works with you to define and measure your space, develop a deep understanding of your style, and trouble-shoot your wish list to ensure that you’re ge�ng the aesthe�c you truly want while achieving the func�onality that your space needs. And if you’re not already working with a qualified contractor, GR Mitchell’s process includes pairing you with the local professional best-suited for your project. Interested in financing? GR Mitchell has in-house op�ons for that, too.
Their Lancaster showroom, located just south of the city in Willow Street, features 7 brands of cabinetry, countertop materials ranging from quartz to laminate, and drawer pulls and knobs in a wide variety of styles and finishes. Your op�ons range from budget-conscious to fully custom. Call or visit them to start your kitchen, bath, bar, laundry, or mudroom renova�on.
KREIDER’S CANVAS SERVICE, INC. has been installing awnings in Lancaster County for over 40 years. Leslie Kreider shares that Kreider’s Canvas offers an option that makes outdoor areas more useful and comfortable. “We developed a ‘Roof Vent System’ that can be used on the flat back wall of a deck or patio canopy. This increased venting area provides more air flow and minimizes trapped hot air,” Leslie says. What’s trending? “There has been an increased use of side curtains around porches and pavilions to block wind when needed, while still having the ability to open up to full view of the outside.”
KEYSTONE GUN-KRETE, LLC specializes in lifting sunken concrete slabs of all sizes. Owner Richie Zook says, “If you’re looking at a sunken pool deck, patio or a section of sidewalk at your home or business, the cost savings to have it lifted instead of replaced can be huge. Plus, it’s done in hours instead of days and without the mess.” Keystone Gun-Krete simply drills
small holes through the slab and injects their expanding foam below to raise the concrete back to its original location. The holes are then filled with mortar so the concrete is ready for foot traffic immediately.
Since 1972, GARMAN BUILDERS has earned its reputation through building homes with exceptional workmanship, attention to detail and customer service. Garman Builders’ Renovations Team works with you to create functional, beautiful spaces that reflect your unique sensibilities, needs and style of living. From whole-home remodels to additions and small commercial projects, they approach each renovation in a collaborative mindset and with the integrity and diligence with which they’ve built their reputation. Garman Builders also offers an award-winning design studio to help homebuyers see, touch and experiment with the myriad of fixtures, finishes and other elements that make a house a distinctly personal home.
DOGWATCH OF SUSQUEHANNA VALLEY is an award-winning Dogwatch dealership offering a full line of indoor and outdoor pet-containment systems and dog-training products to provide you with peace of mind and your pets with freedom and safety. The underground containment system, which uses a radio signal to keep your pet in designated areas, is more versatile, safer and less expensive than traditional fencing. After a system is installed, DogWatch of Susquehanna Valley offers unlimited training sessions ensuring the success of the containment experience. With their two-year battery life, fewer service calls, full lightning protection and a Lifetime Warranty included, DogWatch of Susquehanna Valley delivers the best value.
ZEPHYR THOMAS HOME IMPROVEMENTS is a family-owned remodeling company with over 60 years of experience. They specialize in windows, doors, decking, railing, three- and four-season additions, bathrooms, basements, kitchens, roofing, siding, spouting and shutters. Zephyr Thomas is your one stop for all your home improvement needs. Zephyr Thomas promises to have their estimators listen to your ideas and provide you with options and the cost of your project so they can make your house a home. See why the majority of their customers keep coming back for additional work projects. From their experienced estimators to quality craftsmen, Zephyr Thomas has your project covered. Call or stop by their beautiful showroom.
Who doesn’t fantasize about living by the water! The historically low interest rates, which were available during the pandemic, created a phenomenon that enabled people to realize their dreams of buying second homes. One such couple set their sights on living beside the water in the Annapolis area. Once they found the perfect property, they turned to Kathy Shenk of Interior Fancies, as well as other Lancaster-area companies, to transform it into their home away from home.
BY SUE LONG PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICK GOULD STYLING BY KATHY SHENK
Theavid boaters actually owned a second home in the Fells Point area of Baltimore. However, after nine years, they were ready for a change of scenery. When a potential buyer expressed interest in purchasing their home in early 2020, they saw it as an opportunity to relocate to a less-urban area. Their criteria for buying a new property included an on-site, deep-water dock for him and a pool for her. Other than that, they were open to what the market could provide house-wise. Besides, they knew they could call upon a talented designer for help – Kathy Shenk of Interior Fancies had worked her magic on their home in Lancaster.
The couple attended some open houses in the spring and summer of 2020 and eventually became clients of a real estate company that specialized in waterfront properties. In late summer, they found a near-perfect candidate. It had the requisite dock and pool, but the house needed updating. “Some of the properties we looked at had no hope,” the wife says of remodeling possibilities. “But there was something about this one that appealed to us,” she says, naming the view of the Severn River as the hook that reeled them in. “That view never looks bad.”
The concept of the sunken living room – aka the conversation pit in ’60s lingo – is staging a comeback. Now being referred to as Zen zones or lounges, they provide the perfect separation from the togetherness that open-concept floor plans foster. Here, the two steps that span the width of the room’s entry point, replaced the two railings and narrow steps that separated it from the other areas. A sophisticated coastalinspired color palette and transitional furnishings make it the perfect room for relaxing or socializing. The new windows frame the views of the sky, water and trees. Kathy brought added interest to the decorative ceiling with paint and wallpaper.
IN THE WIFE’S ESTIMATION, the house needed a major overhaul. Built in 1987, it reflected the design aesthetics of that era. One might describe it as eclectic overload, as it exhibited elements of French provincial, colonial, traditional, ’60s modern, ’80s contemporary and even lodge styling. “That was the ’80s,” Kathy notes. “A little bit of everything!” As it was built just before the open-concept look became popular, the first floor was a maze of separate rooms. “There were five colors of wood flooring on the first floor alone,” the wife recalls. “There were no sight lines,” says Kathy of the river view that begged to be seen and enjoyed.
The husband had an altogether different opinion about updating the house. While he agreed the kitchen needed a major remodel, he maintained that some minor tweaks would make the house perfectly livable.
Kathy arrived on scene in early fall for a meeting. Obviously inspired by a previous walk-through, her ideas flowed forth! Recognizing her suggestions had merit, the couple came to the agreement that the house would benefit from an extensive remodel on the first floor and a cosmetic refresh on the second floor. The husband did appreciate hearing the good news that 75% of the furnishings from the Baltimore house would be reused and repurposed. Besides, he had his dock. Life was good.
It was immediately obvious that a general contractor would be needed. TK Building & Design, which is headed by Tim Kotzmoyer, who recently became the president of the Building Industry Association of Lancaster County (BIA), was selected to provide its services. “Tim had to get the proper permits in order to work in the state of Maryland,” Kathy notes. Other Lancaster-area companies involved in the project included Wall to Wall Floor Covering in Ronks, Quality Custom Cabinetry in New Holland, Quality Wall Solutions in Manheim, TJ Painting Wallcovering in Columbia, Caliber Hardwood Floors in Ephrata, Keener Insulating & Supply in Lancaster and Sunshine Constructions in Felton, York County.
Above: Metallic shorebirds add a subtle coastal element to the room’s décor. Below: The new staircase winds its way from the lower level to the second floor. New hardwood flooring that is used throughout the main level replaced the marble and five hardwood finishes that once defined it.Opposite:
The once-enclosed dining room is now part of the open-concept living areas. In addition to the view of woodland, the space now features a sight line that takes in the river.
Clockwise from top left:
By replacing the fortress-like doors at the front entrance with glass-and-wood entry doors, guests are now afforded the opportunity to experience the river views even before they step into the house.
The dining room chairs exemplify the yin and yang of modern-day entertaining. The silk-like starburst fabric on the back of the chairs exudes formality, while the forgiving performance fabric on the front/seating of the chairs addresses casual, carefree comfort.
The round table employs pie-shaped “leaves” that pull-out to easily expand the table’s dimensions. Kathy spied the tables at Furniture Market and shared her find with her clients, thinking the design would be a perfect solution for their needs. “We’ve had as many as 12 people seated around it,” the homeowner reports.
Subtle coastal influences in the dining room include wavelike blue edging on the draperies and vintage black-and-white photos from Annapolis that hang on the curved wall.
“ According to designers and lifestyle gurus, formal-esque dining rooms are staging a comeback ...”
How does one direct a long-distance project such as this? According to Kathy, technology makes it very doable. “During the construction phase, there was no need for frequent site visits. A majority of the design details were completed before construction began,” she explains. “If there were questions, we could FaceTime. On projects such as this, I make myself available.” She also accumulated ordered items at her studio until she could fill a transit van, at which time the Interior Fancies team drove them to Annapolis for major installs.
Kathy originally began working with her clients in 2010. The challenge then and now was to merge their style preferences into a cohesive design. He’s a traditionalist, while she gravitates to contemporary and what she calls “hotel-chic.”
Working with them over the years has allowed Kathy to become attuned
to the couple’s tastes and, as a result, balance their two style preferences. “Kathy is so good at conveying both of our aesthetics,” the wife remarks.
In the case of the living areas at the Annapolis house, transitional styling solves the dilemma. The primary suite, however, is 100% hotel-chic, as it features luxe bedding, exotic lighting, a spa-like bath, a glam walk-in closet and, of course, a view that is well worth waking up to. Even the bathtub is situated so that one can relax (with a glass of wine!) and get lost in the view.
In an era when buzzwords such as casual, comfortable and cozy define home design, this house definitely reflected a bygone time period. The formality of the house had to be dialed down a notch! That would be solved by creating an open-concept plan on the first floor. As it stood, each of
the rooms was an entity unto itself. One unfortunate point was the fact that the enclosed dining room didn’t offer a view of the river. The kitchen layout was awkward and the cabinetry was outdated. Brick-lined accent walls clashed with the hardwood and marble floors.
The living room was odd: two banisters (colonial styling) that were inset with etched-glass panels (’80s contemporary) flanked the narrow step-down entry into the sunken room. The modern track lighting didn’t mesh with the scale or the style (ornately classic) of the space. The windows were outdated.
The marble floor that defined the foyer didn’t complement the style and color of the double entry doors or the style of the winding staircase. Finally, they debated whether to keep the heavily paneled home office as such or repurpose it.
THE DESIGN PLAN called for taking down dining room walls. “By doing that, we were able to take
advantage of a wonderful curving wall that was perfect for including a bar,” says Kathy. A formal dining room in a getaway home? According to designers and lifestyle gurus, “formal-esque” dining rooms are staging a comeback, even in the case of second homes. The theory is that long, leisurely dinners with a view of nature – especially if you have guests – are what getaway homes are all about.
The redesigned kitchen is a cook’s dream – the wife loves to cook – and again, it lends itself to entertaining 21st-century style, as it isn’t isolated from the other areas. It’s adjoined by a light-filled, glass-enclosed breakfast room that overlooks the back of the property and the river beyond. A cozy sitting area (with a fireplace) is also part of the open configuration.
As for the living room, the banisters were eliminated and steps that span the width of the room make it an inviting space, along with the fireplace and again, the spectacular view. “We spend a lot of time in that room,” the wife says. “It’s just a peaceful space. Guests love to sit in the chairs by the window and take
in the views as they enjoy their morning coffee. I’m glad it gets used like it does.”
In the case of the solid-wood entry doors, custom glass-and-wood doors replaced them. “I wanted people to be able to arrive and be greeted by the view of the river even before they step into the house,” the wife explains of the unobstructed view that now exists.
Regarding the office, those too have become important additions to getaway homes, due in part to telecommuting. “We decided to keep it as an office so that guests have a private place for phone calls or to get work done,” the wife elaborates. Glass entry doors ensure complete privacy. The spectacular staircase winds its way from the lower level to the second floor.
The Annapolis house has also become a perfect getaway for the couple’s Lancaster-based daughter and her family, as well as for their other daughter (and her friends) who lives in D.C. The second-floor guest rooms are decorated to reflect their style personalities. Their grandson’s room is pure coastal, as it exhibits a colorful nautical theme.
Decorating and interior design have been in Kathy’s wheelhouse for as long as she can remember. As a child, she took pleasure in rearranging the rooms in the house where she grew up. She and her father drew pictures of houses together. “When I played with Legos, I’d build houses,” she recalls.
As a student at Manheim Central High School, her favorite class was an interior design elective. Then, it was off to study at Pennsylvania School of Art & Design (now PCAD), which at the time offered a three-year curriculum. “I could have gone on, but I wanted to get married and start working,” Kathy explains. She launched her career by working for a Lititz design firm called Crisp Interiors.
She eventually joined forces with Carol Mylin, who specialized in creating floral and greenscaping designs for clients. “Customers often asked her if she knew anyone who could help them with decorating,” Kathy recounts. “She’d suggest me and before I knew it, I had a full-time business going,” she
says of working both independently and collaboratively with Carol, who is now retired.
Six years ago, Kathy relocated from Manheim as a result of purchasing Martin’s Interior Design Studio in Lancaster. The name, Interior Fancies, nails Kathy’s intent: The displays and samples within the boutique store make you want to redecorate your entire house!
Clockwise: Technology such as FaceTime initially allowed Kathy Shenk to stay abreast of how work was progressing, plus answer questions that arose.
The herringbone wall seamlessly holds ovens, storage cabinets/drawers, the refrigerator and freezer drawers.
A light-filled breakfast room features transitional furnishings and a vinyl carpet.
Ironically, Crisp Interiors had been purchased by Martin’s when owner Janet Crisp retired. “So, I guess I’ve come full circle,” says Kathy of her 27-year career.
The pandemic forced us to become homebodies. The goal was to create spaces that conveyed peace and tranquility, essentially an escape from the stress we were dealing with due to Covid and all its ramifications. In doing so, we discovered there’s nothing quite like the color blue to bring a sense of serenity to a room. Hence, a design aesthetic called “coastal” captured our fancies. “Coastal has always been a favorite look,” says Kathy. “Because it’s based on natural elements, it never goes away. It’s always evolving.”
WHETHER PEOPLE LIVED by the ocean, in Midwest suburbia or in
big-city high-rises, coastal catapulted into becoming one of the hottest looks over the course of the past three years. If people couldn’t realize the dream of having that second home by the water, they nonetheless decided to bring the aesthetic home. Shades of blue, sisal rugs, slipcover-inspired upholstery and other elements were used to transform homes into waterside-inspired retreats.
Through attending Furniture Market in High Point, North Carolina (October) and the annual gift shows in Atlanta (January), Kathy took note that coastal is once again evolving. As the Annapolis house proves, coastal can perfectly harmonize with
traditional and contemporary styling. “Even with rustic,” she points out. It was also obvious to her that home décor is continuing to reflect our love affair with nature. Paint colors, wallpapers and fabrics are reflecting the best of all worlds – water and woodland – by going in a blue-green direction. The homeowner agrees with that assessment, sharing that while the river views are the main draw, the woodland views from the front of the house are equally as compelling.
Other color observations for 2023 according to Kathy: “Grays are getting warmer and blues are becoming watercolor-like.” Blush tones that
deliver barely-there color are also on her radar. “One of the hottest colors is a blush shade of lavender,” she reports. Her travels also reveal that brushed brass is popular, as is mid-century modern furniture.
THE ANNAPOLIS HOUSE is not Kathy’s first venture into coastal design. Of late, she has been working with clients on designing their home on Kiawah Island in South Carolina, where alligator and golf aesthetics add to the coastal design. Clients in West Palm Beach, Florida, have followed her advice to incorporate a softer color palette into the décor of their home. Transplants on the Gulf Coast of Florida are backing away from their Lancaster County traditional décor and are easing into a more casual and relaxed look for their new home. “I’m trying to expand them out of their comfort zone, to consider other things,” she says.
If you love coastal but are leery of making it your look in land-locked Lancaster County, Kathy says to throw caution to the wind and go for it. No, don’t overboard with obvious
Clockwise from top: Hotel-chic was the game-plan for the primary suite. Luxe fabrics, Moroccan-inspired lighting, touches of gold and a view worth waking up to make it the ultimate getaway. There’s also a touch of coastal courtesy of the blue-and-white animal-print fabric that covers the bench at the foot of the bed.
The serene color palette in the bath makes for the perfect way to begin or end a day. Features include his-and-her vanities, a spa-like shower, a tub with a view, penny-round tiled walls and Silhouette shades from Hunter Douglas. A glam walk-through closet keeps clothing and accessories organized and contained.
Credits:
• Interior Design: Kathy Shenk, Interior Fancies, Lancaster, interiorfancies.com
• General Contractor: TK Building & Design, Lancaster, tkbuilddesign.com
• Flooring: Wall to Wall Floor Covering, Ronks
• Cabinetry: Quality Custom Cabinetry, New Holland
• Drywall & Painting: Quality Wall Solutions, Manheim
• Wallpaper Installation: TJ Painting Wallcovering, Columbia
• Hardwood Floor Refinishing (2nd floor): Caliber Hardwood Floors, Ephrata
• Custom Front Door: Sunshine Constructions, Felton, York County
• Insulation: Keener Insulating & Supply, Lancaster
Opposite:
After much consideration, Kathy and her clients decided to retain the home office as is. Home offices have become popular additions in second homes, as they provide owners and guests with a quiet place to work or make phone calls. With the exception of the desk, all the furniture is from the owner’s previous getaway home. The pull-out sofa provides yet another guest room.
The staircase leads to the second floor, where coastal-inspired décor welcomes family and friends to the Annapolis area.
Here:
Top: The coastal version of red, white and blue is executed with quilted bedspreads, pillows and nautical art. The coastal décor extends to a propeller-inspired ceiling fan, woven headboards and a bleached-wood dresser. Cosmetic updates included paint (the red-hued natural wainscoting was painted a crisp white) and the addition of sisal-like carpeting. The room is a favorite escape of younger visitors.
Below: It’s always sunny in this guest room courtesy of the wallpaper. Hues of green and blue add to the serenity of the room.
displays of shells and beach-oriented tchotchkes and art. Instead, color, fabric and finishes can be used to provide a sense of your happy place.
While the couple loves their Annapolis home, they still consider Lancaster as home. “Would we ever move there permanently?” the wife muses. “I could see that happening eventually, but our two-year-old grandson keeps us connected to Lancaster.”
For now, the two are enjoying the mini-vacations they take to Annapolis, which is less than two hours from Lancaster. Of course, the water is the main draw – it’s a 20-minute cruise down the Severn to the Chesapeake Bay.
As for Downtown Annapolis, it’s just minutes away and it seems there’s always something to do. This month, for example, the state’s Irish heritage will be celebrated with all sorts of events, including a large St. Patrick’s Day parade in Annapolis. (Eight traditional Irish pubs can be found in Anne Arundel County/Annapolis alone.)
Late winter also sees Annapolis host Restaurant Week (cruising up to dock bars is the newest addition to the dining scene.) There’s also a BWI Craft Brewing Trail to explore.
Spring signals the next edition of an annual film festival, while June hosts Art Week, which entails classes, workshops, gallery exhibits, performing arts and an en plein air event. In September, the Kunta Kinte Heritage Festival pays homage to the perseverance and the cultural/educational heritage of the African Diaspora. As for the holiday season, Annapolis was named by Travel & Leisure magazine (2022) as one of the country’s top Christmas towns. Of course, Annapolis is famously known as being the home of the United States Naval Academy.
As if there’s not enough to do in the Annapolis area, Baltimore and Washington, D.C., are less than an hour away.
Still, the couple bought a home there for a reason. They love the peace and serenity that their little slice of heaven provides. “Going there provides an escape from the daily grind,” the wife explains. “All the clutter stays in Lancaster,” she says. Even laundry is kept to minimum, as wardrobes revolve around casual living. “It’s just a peaceful place to escape to,” she notes.
BOWMAN’S STOVE & PATIO , located in Ephrata, has noticed a major increase in demand for outdoor furniture since people are spending a lot more time at home. Popular this year are gas fire-pit chat tables paired with curved cushion sofas and cushion swivel rockers. Large dining tables are also popular, such as rectangular extension tables that seat eight to 10 people or octagon- and hexagonshaped tables that seat six or eight.
Bowman’s Stove & Patio recommends shopping as early as possible, so that you have furniture in time for the spring/ summer season.
KITCHENS BY EILEEN (KbE Design & Build) has over 25 years of superior, award-winning design and construction experience. Each renovation project is carefully handled by their expert designers who specialize in space planning and design. Their project management team handles your job all the way to completion, giving you peace of mind from start to finish.
KbE Process:
1. Schedule a consultation in their showroom.
2. Designer measures your space and designs floorplans for you to choose from.
3. Designer guides you through the selections process.
4. Project managers oversee your renovation from start to finish.
Kitchens by Eileen also offers an option for those who want the look and convenience of a custom closet without paying a sky-high price. Their patented system, VICTORY CLOSETS , allows you to reconfigure your closet any time without tools, fasteners or support pins. Simply lift and move! Visit Kitchens by Eileen and Victory Closets’ new showroom, located at 4224 Oregon Pike in Brownstown (next to Martin Appliance).
Transform your backyard into an oasis with the help of outdoor specialists, EAGLE WINGS BUSINESS NETWORK (EWBN) . With over 30 years of industry experience and nearly 20 years in business, owner Reuben Stoltzfus and the EWBN team are experts in transforming regular spaces into fun and exciting places to relax and create memories with family and friends. EWBN can create your dream outdoor space by installing customized roof structures, outdoor kitchens, hardscaping, decks, fencing, firepits and more. Basement remodeling is also available. Because EWBN is committed to overdeliver, assistance and industry-experienced advice are offered every step of the way to ensure your complete satisfaction.
Whether you’re a seasoned homeowner looking for better coverage or a first-time home buyer on a budget, you won’t have to cut corners on homeowners insurance at UNRUH . Their agents will match you with a homeowners insurance policy that fits your needs. Plus, each policy can be customized with add-ons, giving you options for extra protection where you see fit.
In 1954, the late George Grove Sr. started what later became GEORGE J. GROVE & SON, INC. The family-owned business, now in its third generation, is built on a firm belief in quality products and installation and in maintaining professionalism, integrity and fairness in their relationships with their customers. George J. Grove & Son, Inc. provides all types of home improvements. Their product lines include windows and doors, roofing, vinyl siding, spouting, gutter protection systems and patio enclosures. They also carry skylights, shutters, railings and retractable fabric and metal awnings.
A beautiful backyard shed from FOX COUNTRY SHEDS is the perfect solution for your storage needs. For example, the Rancher Shed’s extra-tall height and overhead loft provide the perfect solution for outof-the-way storage. Or convert your new shed into a home office or gym! Customize and view your storage shed ideas in 3D when you visit their website. You can even “place” your new shed right in your backyard virtually with the Augmented Reality feature. Whatever your storage needs are, adding a “Fox Shed” will add valuable storage space to your home while enhancing the exterior of your property.
LANDMARK HOMES is an award-winning, family-owned designer and builder of new homes and communities in Central Pennsylvania. Over the past 25 years, Landmark Homes has established themselves as a leading local home builder with a broad portfolio of flexible home plans and an extensive selection of design options to give every client a custom home building experience. Whether you are building on your own land or in one of their communities, Landmark Homes offers nearly 50 customizable home designs. In addition to being a custom home builder, Landmark Homes also offers movein ready homes.
HAWK VALLEY ESTATES - BOWMANSVILLE
• New phase featuring single family homes
• Spacious homesites in a rural setting
WALTON HILL - LITITZ
• Single family home community coming soon
• Location just outside the vibrant Lititz downtown
WYNDALE - EPHRATA
• Single family home community now selling
• Walking trails with exercise areas and a pocket park
George Martin’s dream of building high-quality furniture came true when he started GEORGE’S FURNITURE in 1970. He loved training craftsmen and watching them enjoy their craft. The craftsmen at George’s Furniture enjoy designing with the customer, then watching their eyes light up when the final product exceeds their expectations. They use the highest quality hardwood and finish that stand the test of time and are easy to clean with a damp cloth. Customer favorites include easy-to-open dining tables extending from four feet to 12 feet or more. Take a personal tour to see craftsmen building tomorrow’s antiques today.
JK MECHANICAL has been Lancaster’s leader in Geothermal Heating and Cooling solutions since 1989. With current incentives, homeowners, business owners and non-profit organizations can receive a 30% Federal Tax Credit on eligible Geothermal Heat Pump installations with an average of 50% savings on heating
and cooling costs. Contact JK Mechanical today to request your free, no-pressure site assessment and payback evaluation with one of their experienced Comfort Consultants.
TROUT CPA is an accounting firm with offices in Lancaster and Mechanicsburg, PA, which provides personalized tax, financial statement and business advisory services. In addition to traditional accounting services, they also offer Outsourced Accounting, Data Analytics and other business solutions.
Trout CPA consists of experts with various specialties, which allows them to pair each client with the best team of professionals to meet their unique needs. To learn how Trout CPA can help with your specific needs, call 717-569-2900 or scan the QR code to visit their website.
Flooring plays a major role in the look and feel of your home. Whether you want classic, hardwood floors for your living room or you need the perfect, plush carpet for your bedroom, HERITAGE FLOORS can provide you with the flooring and installation you need to enhance the overall look and appeal of your home. With many years of experience, the team at Heritage Floors offers carpet, vinyl flooring, ceramic tile, luxury vinyl plank, hardwood, area rugs and window shades. Through in-store consultations, Heritage Floors can help you envision your desires and show you the best options for your home. Get in touch for a free estimate!
Completed
a Cash
You can do one big renovation or a few different remodeling projects. The possibilities are endless!
Drawing held 12:00 pm on June 30, 2023
Proceeds benefit the non-profit BIA and the BIA’s workforce development initiatives.
Whether you’re preparing for next season or want to add some color to your home, there’s no faster way to refresh a room than with a fresh coat of paint. Since 1988, VILLE PAINTERS has been delivering expert craftmanship, keen attention to detail and exceptional customer experiences. Whether you are going for a trendy look or hoping to preserve Lancaster’s historic essence, the ViP team can help to determine what color best characterizes your home and personality. Ville Painters offers a wide range of services including interior and exterior painting, historic preservation, wallpaper (installation/removal), drywall and plaster repair, decorative moldings and more.
St. Patrick’s Day is surrounded by good intentions, misconceptions and green dye. By learning about the man behind the holiday, as well as the cooking and culinary traditions of Ireland, you may be inspired to host your own St. Paddy’s Day gathering that could include a history lesson (trivia contest!), a home-cooked Irish-inspired menu and a toast to good health.
First, a little history is in order. St. Patrick, who is the patron saint and national apostle of Ireland, was born in Britain during the fourth century. At the age of 16, he was captured and enslaved by Irish pirates. He credited his strong faith as the reason he was able to endure six years of enslavement. Upon his escape or release, he made his way back to Britain, where he became a priest. A recurring dream compelled him to become the “voice of the Irish.”
While he is credited with introducing Christianity to Ireland (he used the shamrock to explain the concept of the Holy Trinity), he was beloved by Christians and non-Christians alike. Legends surrounded him, including the tale that he drove all the snakes out of Ireland (not true). St. Patrick’s Day, which was initially commemorated as a religious feast in 1631, paid homage to his death date, March 17, 461 A.D. St. Patrick’s Day became an official national holiday in Ireland in 1903. Dublin’s first St. Paddy’s Day parade stepped off in 1931.
Irish émigrés to the United States are credited with transforming St. Patrick’s Day on this side of the pond into a secular holiday. Boston’s first St. Paddy’s Day parade dates to 1737, while New York’s was launched in 1762. Homesick Irish soldiers serving in the British Army are credited with organizing them.
St. Patrick’s Day is also celebrated in grand style in Chicago, where the Chicago River has taken on a green hue on March 17 since 1962.
Today, bars and restaurants nationwide join in celebrating the holiday with special menus and parties, even if
If you feel like celebrating at a local restaurant or watering hole, Lancaster is home to several Irish pubs.
Annie Bailey’s Irish Public House, Lancaster, anniebaileys.com
Brendee’s Irish Pub, Lancaster, brendeesirishpub.com
O’Halloran’s Irish Pub & Eatery, Lancaster, ohallspublancpa.com
McCleary’s Public House, Marietta, mcclearyspub.com
Tellus360, Lancaster, tellus360.com
they serve Latin, Asian, Italian, Greek or down-home American food on the other 364 days of the year. After all, as the saying goes, everyone is Irish on March 17.
Yes, we’re familiar with shepherd’s pie, corned beef and cabbage and other Americanized Irish dishes. But, there’s so much more to explore from a culinary standpoint.
The Irish Cookbook by Chef JP McMahon, published in 2020, is a gorgeous cookbook offering historical context of Irish food. Some recipes are more approachable than others, but all are thoughtful and are paired with spectacular photographs. (Follow him on Facebook and Instagram @mistereatgalway.)
McMahon reaches into the deepest depths of Irish history, examining the evolution of Irish foods and how they became defined as such. He champions the wild, seasonal and sustainable ingredients that especially define western Ireland. His Michelin-starred restaurant, Aniar, in Galway, is regarded as a beacon for contemporary Irish cuisine.
IN HIS BOOK, Chef McMahon draws attention to the stereotypical potato as a relative latecomer in Ireland’s history, which spans thousands of years. From Celts to Romans, Normans to Vikings, there were many, often dramatic influences bringing change to Ireland. Thus, he defines Ireland as “the ultimate melting pot” in regards to Irish cuisine.
The potato occupies a critical point in history, preceded and marked by The Great Famine, which had as much to do with oppressive English rule as it did with diseased potatoes. “There was plenty of food in Ireland,” writes McMahon. “It was just not available to the starving tenement farmers and peasants who had relied solely on the potatoes to feed themselves. More food was exported out of Ireland during the famine than before it,” he continues. “Masses of corned beef and barley left the island to feed people elsewhere. The potato was therefore a blessing and a curse for the Irish
Above: If you plan to cook at home on March 17, you’ll need some inspiration. The Irish Cookbook by Chef JP McMahon, published in 2020, offers bits of history, context and spectacular photographs paired with hundreds of Irish recipes. McMahon reaches into the deepest depths of Irish history, examining the evolution of Irish foods and how they became defined as Irish. Another book I like is My Irish Table: Recipes from the Homeland and Restaurant. Written by Cathal Armstrong and David Hagedorn, it offers recipes of classic, traditional Irish dishes. Below: Guinness Draught Stout, imported from St. James’s Gate in Dublin, Ireland. Nitrogen fills the hopped, sweet and bitter stout for a creamy mouthfeel. Founded in 1759, Guinness introduced its world-famous stout 200 years later in 1959.people. A small patch of potatoes could sustain a family, but overreliance meant that the failure of the crop contributed to the deaths of a million people and the emigration of as many between 1845 and 1951,” writes McMahon.
At the time, the potato variety known as the “Irish Lumper,” was predominantly grown and was particularly vulnerable to blight. The plant disease was not exclusive to Ireland, but the forced dependency on the potato amplified starvation through taxation and suppression.
“The potato’s role as a stereotype of Irish food has obscured other valuable products,” writes McMahon. For example, the availability of freshwater fish, eels and access to drinking water led to early settlement of river regions. Seafood such as saltwater fish, oysters, lobster, squid, muscles, crabs and seaweed are in abundance. Cultivated and foraged produce such as artichokes, plums, asparagus, carrots, leeks, mushrooms, nuts and berries abound. Hare, wild venison and domesticated livestock such as chicken, sheep and cattle that were brought to Ireland by settlers and invaders over thousands of years also define Irish cuisine.
Television viewers may have noticed a story-like commercial that has aired over the past few months. The star of the commercial is Kerrygold Pure Irish Butter. Historically, those living in cooler climates in northern Europe relied on butter to preserve fat, whereas those living in warmer, southern and Mediterranean climates, were blessed with plentiful sources of olive oil.
Top to bottom:
Bread and Butter Pudding from The Irish Cookbook by JP McMahon. Slightly chewy and buttery, warm baking notes – provided by cinnamon and nutmeg –are a highlight of the custard. The golden raisins (sultanas) are tender and sweet, blending in with the bread pudding. I’d recommend doubling the custard in the recipe when using thick slices of bread. Also, store the butter (I used Kerrygold Pure Irish Butter, which is available in most grocery stores) at room temperature for easy spreading, holding an extra slice of bread while buttering to make the process less messy. Serve hot in a bowl with a splash of milk. Custard pours over slices of buttered bread and sultanas (golden raisins) before baking.
Jordan Bush is a commercial photographer. His work has allowed him to discover and document cultures and food across five continents. A graduate of Garden Spot High School and Millersville University, Jordan and his fiancée, Jessica, reside and cook together in Ephrata.
With ample rainfall, grass grows lush and tall in Ireland, providing food for milk-producing cattle. Irish butter, such as the aforementioned Kerrygold, is higher in milk fat. Clocking in at 82% milk fat – compared to the traditional 80% milk-fat content of butter produced in the U.S. – and containing less water, Irish butter has a higher concentration of flavor while offering a soft, creamy texture that spreads easily. In baking, fat content translates into flaky, airy textures found in the laminating process. A byproduct of butter-making is buttermilk, which is used in Irish soda bread, as well as meat marinades for poultry and wild game.
Irish butter is wonderful on morning toast. Serve it with breakfast tea, which offers higher concentrations of caffeine. Irish breakfast tea is particularly robust in flavor; adding milk to black tea mellows the intensity while adding a creamy texture.
Of course, you can’t celebrate St. Patrick’s Day without a beverage. Guinness boasts a fascinating if not incredible history. Finding its start on the last day of the year in 1759, founder Arthur Guinness signed a 9,000-year lease on St. James’s Gate
Brewery. Located at the site of a razed entrance through Dublin’s medieval wall, the monthly rent of £45 is still paid to the landowner. Historically, Guinness ale has been paired with seafood, especially oysters.
Like the potato in the scope of Ireland’s history, the famed Guinness Stout is comparatively new, originating in 1959. Guinness’ variety is brewed with hops in addition to water, barley and yeast, adding a bitter note to the sweet, creamy flavor.
Over winter, finding a case of Guinness in my garage isn’t uncommon, and the YouTube channel, Guinness Guru, is a favorite to watch while enjoying a pint. Based in Ireland, channel creator, Daragh Curran, visits pubs in Ireland, the U.K. and Europe, rating the quality and differences of individual pours of Guinness in notable, often centuries-old establishments. Guinness is brewed differently for various regions and the system of delivery varies at each storied pub. The “Guinness Guru Pint Map” showcases each of Curran’s ratings throughout Europe and the U.S.
As a note for those traveling to Ireland: a liquid pint in the U.S. is 16 ounces, whereas the Imperial equivalent is 20 ounces. Low in alcohol (4.2%) and with just 175 calories per 500 ml, the
Guinness flavor is still creamy, toasty and bitter.
For more information, visit guinness.com and gurutv.ie/map1.
After preparing and savoring a hearty meal, it’s time to relax! Continuing with the theme of centuries-old establishments, one of my interests is Peterson Pipes. Started in 1865 as Kapp, it later became Kapp & Peterson, and eventually, Peterson. The company celebrates St. Patrick’s Day annually with a commemorative pipe, whose design is usually announced in February. I own a few, and joining Peterson pipe groups on social media has been enlightening, with members spanning the globe, many from Ireland. Through their conversations, I’ve learned that black tea or Guinness pairs with a pipe just as well (or better) than does a dram of whiskey. Oh, and don’t forget to include a toast to health with the Gaelic word, “sláinte” (pronounced SLAHNcha). For more information, visit peterson.ie.
HAPPY ST. PATRICK’S DAY! And, don’t forget to plant your peas on March 17 for good luck in 2023.
GIVEAWAYS
LANCASTER COUNTY’S BEST KEPT SECRETS TOURS
April 13-29: Forty-one amazing small businesses are ready to WOW you. Enjoy this shopping, food & fun adventure and receive tons of perks (coupons, gifts, discounts, drawings) for shopping small! Tickets are $11 ($1 per ticket sold will be donated to Refresh Lancaster).
For more info or to order tickets, call 717-721-9409 or email melissa@bestkeptsecretstour.com. Bestkeptsecretstour.com
HALDEMAN MECHANICAL INC.
Founded in 1939, Haldeman Mechanical Inc. has been providing plumbing, heating, cooling and water conditioning services to residential and light commercial customers for three generations. We are a certified Rheem ProPartner offering sales and 24-hour service as well as service agreements to keep your equipment running at peak efficiency. Free estimates are available by calling 717-665-6910 or visiting our website at haldemanmechanical.com.
(PA#007777)
Table for Two
Blue Collar Restaurant, Bar & Catering
Tucked into the manicured fairways and greens of Four Seasons Golf Club in East Hempfield Township, Blue Collar Restaurant, Bar & Catering features an adventurous menu and a fun, casual atmosphere.
Blue Collar, which is co-owned by Rob Billas and Kevin White, opened in July 2021. “The biggest thing here is that we have nice people serving really good food. A lot of our staff has been with us since we opened,” Rob says. He goes on to explain that the restaurant’s name and logo relate to his silver Labrador, Mack. “I have two dogs – one wears a pink collar and one wears a blue collar. Mack wears the blue collar. When we were brainstorming about names, we decided on Blue Collar, and Mack is our mascot,” he shares.
THE TWO WORKED with Kevin’s father, architect Don White, to transform the former banquet area
of the clubhouse into a 170-seat restaurant. By eliminating a dropped ceiling and several walls, they were able to create a light and airy open-concept space. Wainscoting and a blue-andwhite color scheme create a modern farmhouse vibe. There’s a hint of industrial courtesy of the now-exposed ceiling. Expansive windows admit natural light and provide a view of the golf course. A large U-shaped bar was also added. A double-sided brick fireplace adds to the ambiance.
Seating in the dining area is comprised of tables, booths, banquettes and a few high-tops. A portion of the dining area is located in an alcove, which Rob says is perfect for
BY ROCHELLE SHENK PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICK GOULDsmall groups. Two banquet rooms are available for larger groups (a special onsite catering menu is available).
BLUE COLLAR’S MENU is eclectic. “There are a lot of different flavors, so guests won’t get bored with it. Plus, it can appeal to nearly every taste,” Rob points out. The culinary adventure begins with appetizers such as Joe Malo’s quesadilla (filled with butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, bacon, cheddar and finished with a balsamic glaze) and spicy tuna sushi tots (avocado, cucumber, risotto cakes, sriracha aioli and wasabi sauce). In the category of Salads &
Bowls, selections include poke and quinoa power bowls, as well as Thai steak tips and Caesar salads.
Blue Collar’s smash burgers – 4 oz. hand-pressed beef patties served on sesame-seed buns – have become customer favorites, particularly the Kevin burger, which is topped with peanut butter, bacon jam and jalapeños. “It may sound odd to top a burger with peanut butter, but it goes with the other toppings and is really good,” Rob says.
In the realm of entrées, the selection ranges from jambalaya (with shrimp, chicken and andouille) to shrimp & crab Mack n’ cheese, steak dishes and chicken marsala.
Vegetarian options include starters like crispy Brussels sprouts (with spicy miso honey drizzle and optional bacon) to salads such as nuts and berries and roasted beets (the latter two are also
gluten-free). As for entrées, the vegan jambalaya is also gluten-free.
Blue Collar’s French onion soup is prepared using a recipe developed by Tim, one of the restaurant’s cooks.
A special lighter-fare lunch menu featuring smaller portions of regular menu items is available from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday through Friday. There are also daily food specials –Tuesday is wings, Wednesday is nachos and Thursday is rooster fries –all for $9 each. There’s a special kid’s menu, as well.
Blue Collar’s regular menu changes seasonally and there are special additions for holiday events such as Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. Special wine-tasting events feature five food courses and wine pairings. One held in late January featured an Italian theme. (Check the restaurant’s website and social media for upcoming events.)
Blue Collar offers a variety of cocktails, premium spirits, craft brews, ciders and wine by the glass. There’s even a signature craft brew – Mack’s Blue Collar, a New England IPA crafted by Levante Brewing Co. in West Chester.
Blue Collar Restaurant, Bar & Catering is located at Four Seasons Golf Club, 949 Church Street, Landisville. Hours are Tuesday through Thursday, 11 a.m.10 p.m., Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m.- midnight, and Sunday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Reservations are accepted and can be made online via Blue Collar’s website or by calling the restaurant. Take-out is available, as is onsite catering. For more information, call 717-537-2107 or visit bluecollarlanc.com and on Facebook and Instagram.
To see more photos, visit Lancastercountymag.com.
Never miss a beat. Get fresh stories and info on upcoming events delivered weekly straight to your email inbox. Subscribe to The Scoop email newsletter today and stay in the loop on all things Lancaster County.
Subscribe online at LancasterCountyMag.com.
Simply the BEST Chinese Food!
At Hong Kong Garden, you’ll find consistency in taste, generous portions, a pleasant and relaxed atmosphere and excellent service. We offer lavish lunch and dinner menus, made with quality, fresh ingredients, for dine-in or take-out.
Gift Certificates Available
All aboard! Join us in our two original P-70 80-ton dining cars that once rode the rails of the Pennsylvania Railroad. Featuring 175 seats, this unique property offers indoor dining, outdoor deck seating with train and farmland views, and take-out. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner daily, Casey Jones’ Restaurant is a one-ofa-kind experience for all ages!
312 Paradise Lane, Ronks 717-687-5000
CaseyJonesRestaurantPA.com
From the moment you step inside The Main Street Peddler, you’ll feel at home. Located at 22 East Main Street in Lititz, this charming home goods and gift shop has four rooms filled with farmhouse, garden, and vintage décor. Peppered with collectibles, books, and lovely gifts, this shop is celebrating 29 years in business!
22 East Main Street, Lititz. 717-627-4511.
Anchor Lancaster, voted #1 nonprofit, provides a hot breakfast, warm showers and a warming center every weekday to our neighbors in need. Guests are received with dignity, respect and compassion.
• 7:00 a.m. Showers
• 8:30 a.m. Hot Breakfast
• 10:30 a.m. Winter Warming Center
29 East Walnut Street, Lancaster Anchorlancaster.org • 717-394-7231
Director@anchorlancaster.org
Everard Korthals, Real Estate Agent of Mountain Realty ERA Powered, offers SUPERIOR real estate services to his clients whether they are relocating to or moving within the Lancaster County area or outlying areas. The goal of ALL Mountain Realty ERA Powered agents is to be an ADVOCATE for you through the entire process of Buying, Selling and/or Investing.
2938 Columbia Avenue, Suite 602, Lancaster. 717-390-8701. www.eramountainrealty.com.
Kristin Blanck, Lynn Davison, and Katheryn Stott
MARCH 1-31
Red Raven Art Company
138 N Prince Street Lancaster, PA 17603 717-299-4400
Redravenartcompany.com
Celebrating 24 years in our mission of helping you LOVE your hair and nails! We specialize in trendy and traditional hair design, refreshing color, brightening highlights and perms for added style. Rejuvenate your hands and feet with relaxing manicures and pedicures. Thank you for trusting us to help you look and feel your best and voting us ‘The Best’ salon in 2022.
798A New Holland Avenue, Lancaster. 717-295-0836.
March 11-12 | Park City Center –BonTon Building
Celebrate Native American culture with drumming, singing, dancing, flute circles, crafts, vendors and food. The event will also feature a dreamcatcher raffle to raise money for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW). Admission is $5 per person and free for kids under 7 and adults over the age of 65. Hours are Saturday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m., and Sunday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Information: lawilowan.com or on Facebook.
March 15-18 | Spooky Nook Sports
Find everything you need for the little ones in your life, including baby gear, toys, books, puzzles, clothing and more. Over 850 local families have consigned their new and gently used items in this sale. There will also be a variety of vendors on-site. On Saturday, everything will be half off, and from 6:30-7:30 p.m., there will be a cash-only stuff-a-bag sale. Each bag will cost $10, and all money collected will be given to a local charity. Parking is free, as well as admission on ThursdaySaturday. Tickets must be purchased for the pre-sale on Wednesday.
Information: weeusablesevent.com or 717-495-2855.
March 11-12 | Millersville University
Student Memorial Center
This festival will feature exhibitors displaying their woodcarving and wildlife art, live demos, door prizes, presentations, a silent auction, hands-on carving sessions and vendors. Art will be available for purchase from many artists and carvers. This year’s theme is Wonders in Wood and will feature special guest Kevin Applegate, an accomplished woodcarver and member of Caricature Carvers of America. The show will be open Saturday, 10 a.m.5 p.m., and Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission is $5 or free for those with a student or military ID. Parking is free. Information: lancarvers.com.
March 12 | State-owned Museums
Pennsylvania was created when England’s King Charles II granted a charter to William Penn in 1681. The Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission (PHMC) will celebrate Pennsylvania’s 342nd birthday with free admission to certain state-owned museums.
Participating Lancaster-area museums include Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum (landisvalleymuseum.org), Ephrata Cloister (ephratacloister.org), Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania (rrmuseumpa.org) and Cornwall Iron Furnace (cornwallironfurnace.org). Information: phmc.pa.gov or 717-787-3362.
March 24 | Listrak
Experience a culinary, interactive cook-off event featuring the talents of students from Lancaster County Career & Technology Center. Enjoy a variety of appetizers and desserts and vote for your favorite dishes. A bar featuring local beer and wine will also be available. The evening benefits the New Choices Career Development Program at YWCA Lancaster, which provides free career development through individualized coaching sessions and workshops. The event will take place from 6-8:45 p.m. Information: one.bidpal.net/newchoices or 717-393-1735.
“Dr. Weierbach has created a practice that should be a model for his industry. He’s a recognized expert in his field (you’ll see why at your first visit), accommodating, a good listener, and patient-focused: he’ll recommend what he believes is the best course of action for your specific situation The staff is welltrained, very friendly and genuinely caring Dr. Weierbach spared no effort and cut no corners in treating me, and the results were as good as I’d hoped for, if not better.”
American Dental Association (ADA)recognized specialists in restoring and replacing teeth for a timeless display of confident beauty and Members in the American College of Prosthodontists.
160 North Pointe Boulevard Suite 203 / Lancaster, PA 17601
717.560.9190
YourClassicSmile.com