LCM | June 2021 | Explore Your Own Backyard by Lancaster County Magazine

r u o Y e r o l p x E ! d r a y k c a B n w O

Llamas

PROVIDE A ZEN EXPERIENCE

Airbnbs “Crop Up”

ON A LOCAL FARM GOING HIKING, BACKPACKING OR CAMPING? Be Prepared!

Should I Get a Second Opinion?

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Summertime

SMILES

Get your teeth ready for the smiles that come with summertime. There’s no better time than now to shape up your smile.

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Manheim

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Willow Street

212 Willow Valley Lakes Dr., Suite 209 Willow Street, PA 717-740-2200

CONTENTS

JUNE 2021 | VOLUME 35 | NUMBER 2

FEATURES

DEPARTMENTS

20.

Pamela Campbell – Wonder Woman

Meet the co-owner of Spooky Nook Llama & Alpaca Farm and learn how this aesthetician, makeup artist and former day spa owner made the move from Florida to Lancaster and became a “mother hen” to llamas, alpacas, sheep, horses and dogs.

26.

Pete & Carol Heth – Farming Airbnb-Style

Discover how the Heths parlayed careers in construction and interior design to create a compound of unique getaways on their West Hempfield Township farm.

Uptown & Down

44.

Michael Upton put 20-plus years of writing experience to use and signed on to write Greater Than a Tourist – Lancaster County for CZYK Publishing. Here, he touches on topics that didn’t make it into the book.

44.

Foodographer

Outdoor enthusiast, Jordan Bush, shares his strategies for hiking, backpacking and camping in our wild open spaces.

52.

Table for Two

Rochelle Shenk takes in the river views and farm-fresh food at the John Wright Restaurant in Wrightsville.

56.

It’s a Beautiful Day

Martine Cajas, the owner of House of Clarendon, describes his perfect Lancaster County day.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTIONS

15.

Explore Lititz

Whether it’s shopping, dining or exploring, Lititz is the “coolest” place to visit this summer.

34.

Celebrate Summer

If you’re looking to remodel your home or backyard, update your look, treat yourself to dinner, take in a live show or entertain guests, this section is filled with ideas and products from local businesses and service providers that can help to make your summer a breeze.

20. ON THE COVER: Kirk Zutell photographed The

Glamper, which is part of the getaway options available at Pete and Carol Heth’s farm in West Hempfield Township.

52. BE SCENE! Visit our website,

lancastercountymag.com, to learn of events planned and rescheduled for the coming months.

L A N C A S T E R CO U N T Y | J U N E 2 0 2 1

26.

Be a part of our next chapter

Becky and Kaia’s New Addition now available to order Join Becky and Kaia, Penn State Children’s Hospital’s beloved facility dogs, for a fun and pawsitively touching adventure, “Becky and Kaia’s New Addition: A Tale of Penn State Children’s Hospital.” The pups share stories of real-life Children’s Hospital patients and take you on a tour of the newly opened three-floor expansion. A portion of the proceeds goes to the Children’s Hospital in support of high-quality patient care and groundbreaking research.

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INTERESTED IN

REMODELING

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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 & SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR Lauren Hillegas Lhillegas@engleonline.com REGULAR CONTRIBUTORS

QUALITY PRODUCTS

FREE CONSULTATION

CUSTOM DESIGN

WRITERS Dr. Richard L. Bitner Jill Brown Rochelle A. Shenk Michael C. Upton Kathleen Wagner

PHOTOGRAPHERS Jordan Bush Seth Dochter Nick Gould Kirk Zutell

ADVERTISING INFORMATION 717-492-2525 SALES MANAGER Greg March Gmarch@engleonline.com ACCOUNT REPRESENTATIVE Karen Stoltzfus Karen@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 717-492-2525 Lancastercountymag.com

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What’s your Life Lived Forward?

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UPTOWN & DOWN And All Around

Photo courtesy of Michael C. Upton

Greater Than a Tourist TEXT BY MICHAEL C. UPTON

We’ve all made pivots over the past 15 months in order to keep our careers on track. I was able to parlay my 20-plus years of writing about Lancaster County into penning a travel guide as a result of answering a post on an online job board. Now, armed with suggestions regarding the people, places and things I either forgot to mention or were eliminated during the editing process, I could probably write Volume 2.

2020, like millions of other people throughout the world, I found myself without work when COVID-19 caused closures and business restrictions. After all, I specialize in writing about subjects relating to arts and leisure – the things people like to get out and do! I was lucky enough to enjoy work from my regular column here in Lancaster County Magazine and a few other publications, but as theatres,

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restaurants, breweries, travel and tourism all shut down, I found myself without subject matter. Without subjects there were no story pitches. Without pitches there were no assignments. The keys of my computer fell silent most days. AFTER ANSWERING a post on an online job board, I teamed up with PA-based CZYK Publishing to pen a Lancaster County edition of their Greater

Than a Tourist series of travel guides. The downtime of the pandemic seemed like the perfect opportunity to create a culmination of my 20-plus years of experience conducting interviews and writing feature stories and reviews in and around Lancaster County. The mission was to compile 50 locally inspired tips for those traveling to this area. The project drew on my relationships with business

owners, artists and community leaders to show the county beyond everyday tourist draws. I added exclusive insights into the area’s history, attractions and natural beauty divided into seven segments: an area introduction, libations, dining, arts and leisure, markets and deals, the outdoors and general information on some of the more well-known aspects of Lancaster County – former President James Buchanan, the Amish, goats, etc. Greater Than a Tourist – Lancaster County was written on contract, so I do not realize any further earnings from sales, which makes me comfortable writing about it today. The book hit the Amazon shelves in both print and Kindle format in October 2020. Locally, copies can be found at the friendly neighborhood Comic Store (28 McGovern Avenue). I was stunned by the amount of people who approached me after its release saying they had bought a copy (or two) – thank you! Of course, I did get the obligatory questions of “Why didn’t you write about ‘this’ or include ‘that?’” The answer is I either did not have the room in the allotted 200-to-250-word sections or, quite frankly, I simply forgot! Here are two topics that elicited lots of questions as to why they were not included.

When I was a kid in the city, I loved running down to Smithgall’s Pharmacy and picking out an Italian ice from the freezer case. Now that I have kids, my favorite place to take them for frozen treats is Boehringer’s in Adamstown, not just for the ice cream – I always get a thick, malted, chocolate milkshake – but for the ambiance of this creekside throwback to the 1950s where little ones discover families of ducks are way more interesting than a cheeseburger. I do not drink a lot of soda, but I have a serious affection towards Moxie

(I know, it’s an acquired taste) and the one place where this throwback pop is always available is The Pretzel Hut right outside of Brickerville. An ice cream and burger eatery, The Pretzel Hut is often packed at peak hours but service is fast and outdoor seating is ample. Just across the river in York County is an ice cream destination I am always glad to drive a little farther for: Jim Mack’s Ice Cream, which is ice cream, food and fun for the whole family. If superior quality and small batch ice cream is the goal, then

beautiful floors your way

IN YOUR HOME OR BUSINESS

I SCREAM, YOU SCREAM I was shocked when my friends at Lickity Split in New Holland sent me a message. I had forgotten ice cream! For those who know me, this is a real shocker. Ice cream is my ultimate guilty pleasure. I once declared a “summer of ice cream” and set out to treat my family to frozen desserts at every chance – anytime and anywhere we could. It was a beautiful summer! So, to set the record straight, here is an addendum to the travel guide and a partial list of some of my favorite places to get ice cream in and around Lancaster County. And, by the way, Lickity Split – home of the Plowed Field Sundae (with gummy worms) – recently renovated their look and installed a brand-new dipping cabinet for their selection of ice cream from Leiby’s Dairy. Tell ‘em I sent you if you visit. ICE CREAM IS ALMOST a local pastime in Lancaster County. Every small town has an ice cream place nearby, whether it is a colorful national chain, an independent small business or just a Plain farm making their best version of the frosty delight.

“

We are beyond pleased. We will be using you again for sure. 1000% pleased. – M.S. of Lancaster

”

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L A N C A S T E R CO U N T Y | J U N E 2 0 2 1

I recommend heading to Lapp Valley Farm. Although dips can be ordered at satellite locations in Kitchen Kettle Village and Green Dragon Farmers Market, I highly recommend visiting the farm on Mentzer Road in New Holland to get the real experience.

PLAY BALL! I also forgot about sports, hence another addendum. LANCASTER IS HOME to many noteworthy athletes, including Olympic

sprinter “Barney” Ewell; Tour de France participant Floyd Landis; figure skater and TV personality Johnny Weir; swimmer Kyle Salyards, who finished sixth in the men’s 200-meter breaststroke during the 2000 Olympics in Sydney; and NFL fullback Dan Kreider, who played for the Steelers. In the world of baseball, native sons Don Wert (Detroit Tigers and Washington Senators); Bruce Sutter (pitcher for the Chicago Cubs, St. Louis Cardinals and Atlanta Braves and inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2006); side-arm relief pitcher

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Gene Garber (Pittsburgh Pirates, Kansas City Royals, St. Louis Cardinals and Atlanta Braves); Chris Heisey (Cincinnati Reds and Washington Nationals) and All-Star second baseman Tom Herr (began his career with the St. Louis Cardinals and finished with the New York Mets and then became the manager for the Lancaster Barnstormers) are among those representing the county. Golf is also a big part of the sports culture in Lancaster County, whether enjoyed by recreational players on dozens of courses throughout the county or by hosting major tournaments like the LPGA U.S. Women’s Open at the Lancaster Country Club (once in 2015 and scheduled to return in 2024). Jim Furyk, 2010 FedEx Cup champion and PGA Tour Player of the Year, graduated from Manheim Township High School. As for the NBA, Wally Walker (Penn Manor) played for Portland, Seattle and Houston during his career and returned to Seattle to serve as president and general manager of the team. Lancaster was also home to the U.S. Women’s National Field Hockey Team – which included local players such as Jill Witmer and Alyssa Manley – for several years. The team practiced and hosted tournaments at the county’s premier sports complex, Spooky Nook Sports in Manheim. Lancaster Inferno FC participates in the United Women’s Soccer league and in 2018 and 2019 were UWS East Conference Champions.

MICHAEL C. UPTON works as

a freelance writer specializing in arts and leisure covering subjects ranging from funk punk to fine wine. He graduated with a BFA in Creative Writing from the University of Maine at Farmington and is actively published by trade journals, specialized websites, and regional and national magazines. Upton lives in Lancaster County with his wife, Mel, and two youngest children, Halligan and Teagan. Tyler, his oldest son, is a graduate of The Culinary Institute of America.

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Helping you make your mark is how we make ours. When you put your energy, heart, time and skill into something meaningful, you leave a lasting imprint. It’s what we’ve been doing in central Pennsylvania for nearly two decades. And now we’re going to bring that same commitment to Lancaster. We’re a local bank that’s here to help you make your mark—whether it’s buying a home, starting a business, saving for your next adventure, or planning the retirement of your dreams. When we work together, there’s no limit to what we can accomplish.

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NCI Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center

This is not just top-ranked cancer care. It’s a game changer. The National Cancer Institute (NCI) is the nation’s authority on cancer. And it has recognized UPMC Hillman Cancer Center as one of just 51 Comprehensive Cancer Centers in the U.S. With locations in Carlisle, Camp Hill, Harrisburg, Mechanicsburg, Lititz, and York, you don’t have to travel far for nationally recognized, cancer care. To learn more, visit UPMCHillman.com/CentralPA.

UPMC Hillman Cancer Center is proud to be part of UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside, ranked no. 15 for cancer care by U.S. News & World Report.

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S P E C I A L A D V E R T I S I N G S E C T I O N | COMPILED BY KAYLEE REX

Now that restrictions have been lifted, Lititz is ready to celebrate. Shops are open, restaurants can operate at full capacity and best of all, the events that help to make Lititz one of the “coolest small towns” in America are once again on the calendar. The craft shows will fill the park and streets, the outdoor art show is a go, taste-tempting food- and beerrelated celebrations are staging a return and, best of all, Lititz’s annual Fourth of July celebration – one of the oldest in the nation – is back!

UPCOMING LITITZ EVENTS: June 11, July 9, August 13, September 10

SECOND FRIDAYS

o! , to zes i S s Plu

Color Me Cotton Clara Sun Woo Lu Lu B • Charlie B Renuar • Tribal

Clemintines A Unique Woman’s Boutique! 25 East Main Street Lititz • 717-626-6688 Monday through Saturday 10am - 5pm Sunday 12pm - 4pm

Shops, eateries and other venues stay open late (9 p.m.) on the second Friday of every month. In addition, the streets are alive with music, dancing, entertainment and other activities that are suitable for the whole family.

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

August 14, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

ROTARY CRAFT SHOW After being canceled last summer, one of the top craft shows on the East Coast will be returning to the streets of downtown Lititz this summer. Drawing 700 artists, makers and crafters from throughout the U.S. and Canada, you don’t want to miss this show.

August 15, 6:30-8 p.m.

EVENING OF MUSIC Hosted by Lititz Historical Foundation, enjoy a free night of music in Mary Oehme Gardens. More details TBA.

AVAILABLE IN OUR RETAIL STORE & ONLINE 45 North Broad Street, Lititz, PA 17543

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Thursdays

June 25-26

LITITZ FARMERS MARKET

ANNUAL ANTIQUES SHOW

This community-supported farmers market is back! Shop the array of vendors every Thursday from 4-8 p.m. in Lititz Springs Park.

Join the Lititz Historical Foundation at Lititz recCenter for their 58th annual antiques show. The show will be held Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturday, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Admission will be $10.

June 4-13

A TASTE OF LITITZ Although it will still look different from past years, A Taste of Lititz is the perfect way to kick off summer. Explore all that Lititz has to offer; enjoy live music, dine on specials from Lititz restaurants and shop at your favorite small businesses. The Lititz Art Association will also be hosting an art auction again this year.

June 12, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

AMBUCS CRAFTS IN THE PARK Spend the day at Lititz Springs Park browsing locally made crafts, art and décor.

July 2-3

LITITZ 4TH OF JULY CELEBRATION Gather at Lititz Springs Park to celebrate the 204th consecutive Lititz Fourth of July celebration. On Friday, enjoy live music from Flamin’ Dick and the Hot Rods and meet this year’s Queen of Candles. On Saturday, enjoy a full day of live music, food trucks, family-friendly fun and fantastic fireworks. Both days will have limited capacity and will require preregistration.

July 31, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

LITITZ ART ASSOCIATION’S OUTDOOR FINE ART SHOW Browse the works of over 130 artists, both local and out-of-state, during this year’s show at Lititz Springs Park. Oils, acrylics, watercolors, drawings, ceramics and sculptures will all be on display or available for purchase.

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August 17, 6-9 p.m.

UNITED ZION’S 2021 CAR AND MOTORCYCLE CRUISE Held at Lancaster Evangelical Free Church, check out classic cars and motorcycles and enjoy food trucks and live music. All funds support United Zion Retirement Community. More details TBA.

September 5, 6:30-8 p.m.

ANNUAL ICE CREAM SOCIAL Join Lititz Historical Foundation for an evening of ice cream and live music in Mary Oehme Gardens.

September 11, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

recROC BOULDER BASH Hosted at Lititz recROC (Rock Lititz), this annual indoor bouldering competition is fun for novice and advanced climbers alike. Participate as a youth, novice or advanced climber for your chance to win prizes like gift cards, shirts, gear and more.

September 18, 8-11 a.m.

PRETZEL TWIST 5K AND KIDS RUN This family event is a tradition among seasoned runners and a new challenge for first-time 5K runners. For kids, a mile run is offered. All proceeds benefit Lititz recCenter.

in historic downtown Lititz featuring beautiful clothing, wearable art, unique accessories and expert personal service. Fashions by Planet, Alembika, Oska, Dress To Kill, Eileen Fisher, Flax... Jewelry and accessories by Fly London, Latico, Ed Levin, Simon Sebbag, Alexis Bittar, ZZAN...

Open Daily 10 am to 5 pm Closed Sundays 717-627-2244 49 East Main Street, Lititz, PA www.tigerseyelititz.com

Please check website for hours

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

September 19

LITITZ AMBUCS CRAFT BEER FEST This charitable fundraiser, presented by Lititz AMBUCS, features beer, food and tons of fun. Details TBA. For more information on upcoming events, visit lititzpa.com or call 717626-6332.

Lititz shopkeepers are also celebrating the summer season with the latest fashion trends, home décor, yummy treats and more.

FASHION & BEAUTY Spring and summer are always exciting times at CLEMINTINES. The bright colors, which began arriving in midJanuary, include shades of ocean blue, pale

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OUR LOCALLY SOURCED PARTNERS: Royal Tide Salmon Co. | Freebird | Pennsylvania Proud Fox Meadows Creamery | Dutch Country Soft Pretzels | Whiff Roasters

Located on the Moravian Manor Communities’ Warwick Woodlands campus and open to the public. No reservations needed.

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pink and golden yellow. These are just a few of the colors trending this season in many different styles. Accessories are essential to complete your look. All it takes is that one special piece to pull your outfit together. Some staff favorites in jewelry include Sea Lily (made from piano wire), OC Jewelry (for that artistic statement piece) and Origin (a resin material that comes in an array of colors and styles). Don’t stop at jewelry. Clemintines has beautiful, lightweight scarves and purses. A clutch by Joy Susan can be used as a crossbody or wristlet. Come to Clemintines and then enjoy the rest of your day at the many other fabulous stores and restaurants that Lititz has to offer. TIGER’S EYE is a wonderful find in Downtown Lititz. Here, you’ll discover beautiful clothing and unique jewelry and accessories paired with outstanding personal service. Tiger’s Eye has been helping their friends and customers look their best since 1996. This season they are experiencing a strong resurgence of jackets, along with a continuing trend toward dresses and tunics. Joseph Ribkoff, Planet, Flax, Bitte Kai Rand, Alembika and Eileen Fisher continue to be the strong go-to designers for the Tiger’s Eye discriminating customer. Owner Nadine’s love for accessories is reflected in the stunning jewelry and scarf selection, featuring jewelry by Margo Morrison, Simon Sebbag and French Kande, as well as scarves by Tilo, Suzi Rohrer, Dog & Boy and many more from around the world. A customer recently said the following: “The clothes and accessories at Tiger’s Eye are lovely and unique, but it’s the quality of service which brings me back. Thoughtfulness, kindness and artfulness are all qualities which set this shop apart.”

FOOD & DINING One of the many popular specialties at WILBUR CHOCOLATE is their signature Wilbur Buds packaged in many different gift types or casual pouches for total chocolate Bud enjoyment! Other favorites include chocolate-covered fruit, triplecoated almonds and the kitchen-made Lititz Bark. Stop by the Lititz store today to

find all kinds of sweet treats for yourself or for the perfect gift for any occasion! Visit wilburbuds.com to find out more about their long and unique history or to shop for your favorites online. Come visit America’s first commercial pretzel bakery, JULIUS STURGIS PRETZEL BAKERY, and take a familyfriendly tour (offered every half hour). The bakery’s hours are Monday through Saturday, 10:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., and Sunday, 12 p.m.-4 p.m. Be sure to visit their website, juliussturgis.com, for tour times. Please call 717-626-4354 during business hours to make a tour reservation. General manager Kurt J. Van Gilder says, “We offer more than just pretzels. Check out our pretzel-themed gift items such as T-shirts, magnets, pencils and books. We also offer wonderful chocolatecovered pretzels, some drizzled with caramel or peanut butter.”

SENIOR LIVING MORAVIAN MANOR COMMUNITIES, with both assisted living and personal care, is the ideal place for a parent or aging family member to stay independent while also having access to 24/7 care, a home-like supportive neighborhood and life-enriching activities to stay active, social and safe. With Moravian Manor Communities’ five-decade legacy of caring, you can feel conﬁdent in the care your loved one receives there. The Life Plan Community offers a dedicated team of caregivers, health management programs, freshly prepared meals served in the dining room, and scheduled activities (following CDC guidelines). There’s also continuing care on campus with the safety net of a benevolent care program, ensuring your family member receives the care they require and won’t need to move out. Take advantage of their Reserve Now, Move Later program, which is available for a limited time only. Submit an application and $1,000 deposit to reserve a one- or two-room suite. After moving in, they will waive the $7,000 guest deposit. Call 717626-0214 for details and a personal tour.

HOME DÉCOR CHERRY ACRES is a manufacturer and retailer of custom-made furniture made primarily from reclaimed lumber. Cherry Acres specializes in tabletops and bar tops made from live-edge slab wood. Besides domestic species, Cherry Acres carries many exotic species imported from Costa Rica. Stop in and view the several hundred slabs at their store and warehouse.

explore

Lititz Visit LITITZPA.COM

Inspired Designs For The Home Old Barn Wood Furniture & Home Decor Imported Pottery & Antiques Collectibles from Around the World Custom & Special Orders Always Welcome

Specializing in Live Edge Wood Slab Tables & Tops

Old Barnwood

Furniture

www.cherryacres.com 23 East Main Street | Lititz, PA | 717-626-7557 L A N C A S T E R CO U N T Y | J U N E 2 0 2 1

PA M E L A CA M P B E L L

Wonder Woman “If I could have one superpower, it would be the ability to communicate with animals,” says Pamela Campbell, who co-owns Spooky Nook Llama & Alpaca Farm, located near Landisville, with her fiancé, Michael Scornavacchi. “I’d love to know what they are thinking and have them tell me what hurts if they are not feeling well.” BY SUE LONG PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICK GOULD

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Pamela Campbell, who was the owner of a day spa on Marco Island in Florida, is now a Lancaster County farm girl who breeds and raises llamas, alpacas, sheep and horses.

Pamela

is a firm believer that career paths do not have to follow a straight line. Instead, they should evolve and even deviate from where they began. She and Mike are prime examples of that philosophy. Born in Pittsburgh, the aesthetician and makeup artist resided in Michigan for 30 years before moving to Marco Island in Florida, where she owned and operated a day spa. Mike, who is originally from Reading and is the founder of the material-handling company, LIFT, Inc., always spent half the year in Florida. The two became acquainted through attending the same church and being members of the same country club. One day, the recently divorced Mike texted Pamela and asked if she’d like to get a group of her friends together and go out

for dinner. She agreed and in an effort to play matchmaker, recruited 11 of her girlfriends to go to dinner with Mike and her. “By the end of the evening, we were the only two left,” she recalls. They discovered their shared interests extended to being entrepreneurs and not having traditional viewpoints of what retirement looks like. “I think you can reinvent yourself at any age,” Pamela says. “As for myself, I couldn’t envision sitting around and playing Mahjong all day.”

GREEN ACRES Motivated by the fact that Pamela’s mother had moved back to Pittsburgh, the two began looking for business opportunities in the Northeast. “Most people retire and move to Florida,” Pamela notes. “We did the opposite and came

north!” Mike had previously bought the farm where they now live and leased out the fields. Two years ago, he purchased the adjacent farm. Together, the two farms cover 80 acres. Mike and Pamela’s farm is home to llamas, alpacas, sheep, horses and three dogs, two of which she describes as “foo-foo dogs who now think they are farm dogs!” The couple has devoted the past four years to renovating the stone farmhouse that is more than 200 years old. They are nearing the completion of an addition that will hold the master suite. “The front yard has been dug up for the last four years and I’ll be so happy to see grass growing there again,” Pamela says. The barn, which predates the house, was fully renovated

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(the stonework was repointed throughout) and adapted to animal care. “We just want to be good stewards,” says Pamela.

LIVESTOCK OF A DIFFERENT SORT When it comes to livestock, Lancaster is known for its herds of dairy cows. There are plenty of sheep, as well. Yes, there are several llama/alpaca farms, too. “We knew nothing about llamas and alpacas,” says Pamela. Attending a community fair changed all that when they spied a llama. Pamela, a self-confessed animal lover since childhood, was intrigued and began doing research. Llamas and alpacas have been used as pack animals in the mountains of South America since pre-Columbian times. (Pamela dreams of traveling to South America once Covid-related travel restrictions are eased in order to see llamas and alpacas in their natural environment.) They’ve since made their way to North America and have become familiar sights in the Rocky Mountain states, where they are used by hikers and campers to transport gear. “They do well here,” Pamela says of the United States. As for Lancaster County, Pamela reports, “The cold doesn’t bother them but they are not fond of hot weather.” When the weather turns hot and humid, Pamela’s herd likes to spend the warmest part of the day in the temperature-controlled barn. Llamas and alpacas are also renowned for their fleece. Because it’s hollow, the fiber is lightweight yet incredibly warm. “That’s why it’s so expensive,” Pamela

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remarks. Another plus is that unlike sheep wool, it is lanolin-free. As we discovered, llamas can be incredibly friendly and will readily approach you. Their expressive and longlashed eyes are captivating. Alpacas, which are smaller and different from llamas in several ways, tend to be on the shy side.

EMBRACING THE CAMELID LIFE Pamela and Mike did their homework and welcomed six alpacas to the farm. “They were not very friendly,” she recalls. In search of answers, she attended a GALA (Greater Appalachian Llamas and Alpacas) meeting that was held in Lancaster. “Everyone was so welcoming and helpful,” she says. From there, they added two llamas, who hailed from Upstate New York. “That’s when I discovered llamas are like potato chips – you can’t stop with one,” she relates. Pamela became totally immersed and began attending seminars relating to all-things camelid, including breeding and birthing methodology. (A llama’s gestation period is 350 days. Their life expectancy averages 25 years.) “My goal in breeding is to achieve good dispositions, followed by composition and good fiber,” Pamela explains. “I have to work with them, so I’d prefer them to have nice temperaments.” Apparently, the feelings are mutual. Once the animals spy Pamela, they come running to greet her. It’s a sight to see and experience. Pamela also gives kudos to Dr. Cynthia Foulke, a veterinarian with Ag Vet Associates in Lititz, for taking her under

her wing. “I’ve learned so much from her,” Pamela says. She also credits Sue and Kevin Zurin at Eastland Alpacas in Mount Joy for their help and support. Pamela has also immersed herself in competing on the show circuit. One of her llamas, Mr. GQ, has been winning titles from coast to coast. “He knows he’s beautiful,” she says of the self-confidence he displays during competitions. Their latest competition – nationals – took them to Indiana in late April. Pamela was very pleased with Spooky Nook’s showing. “There were over 400 llamas entered,” she notes. “In every class we entered, we were in the Top 5. One of my girls took first place in a class of 25 llamas. We were thrilled to place in every division!” Pamela also launched a llama club at the farm. “We have a core group of 10 to 15 people. We have educational meetings and they come out to walk and groom the llamas and alpacas and help with events. Everyone is assigned an animal. They’ve become a great asset to the farm.” People on the front lines of the pandemic have also discovered the “magical powers” that llamas possess. “Walking a llama is very zen-like and therapeutic,” Pamela notes. “We’ve had quite a few first responders come to the farm to destress by taking part in our llama walks.” Now that the farm is part of the agritourism movement, Pamela and Mike have been welcoming visitors. “We get lots of homeschool groups,” she says. “Every tour is private – we don’t do group tours on the hour. We want the tours to be as personal and educational as possible.”

Clockwise from top left: Pamela and her fiancé, Michael Scornavacchi, relocated to Lancaster County six years ago and are the owners of two farms located just outside of Landisville. They’ve spent the last four years restoring the barn and farmhouse, both of which are more than 200 years old. Pamela’s daughter provided the artwork on the barn. Llamas tend to be friendly and approachable. When given the opportunity, llamas will use a “litterbox” such as this one that was set up inside the barn. When Pamela appears, the animals come running to greet her.

Because llamas and alpacas are susceptible to parasites, Pamela and Mike make it their mission to clean the fields on a daily basis. “We couldn’t do all this without each other,” she shares.

BECOMING MISS BO PEEP One day Pamela was online when she spied “the most amazing sheep.” What caught her attention are Valais Blacknose sheep from Switzerland. One website refers to them as “the cutest sheep in the world.” Distinguished by their black faces and ears, as well as knees, hocks and feet, their curly wool makes them almost look like labradoodle dogs. Pamela affirms they have dog-like behavior, as they love to be held and cuddled and will come running at the sight of a human. “They’ll just follow you around like a dog,” she adds. Today, they are primarily raised as pets. “People buy them because of their personalities but

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Clockwise from this page: Pamela with her pride and joy – Mr. GQ, whose Argentinian bloodlines help to make him a winner on the show circuit. Pamela with her Valais Blacknose sheep. Spooky Nook Farm is the first in Pennsylvania to successfully produce Valais Blacknose purebreds. While the fleece from llamas looks heavy, it’s light as a feather. Pamela visits with some of her sheep. Pamela couldn’t resist buying these sweatshirts to sell in her shop, Pamela’s She Shed.

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their fiber is amazing, too,” she reports, adding, “I’m really attached to them.” Unfortunately, because of predators, Valais Blacknose sheep have become an endangered breed in Switzerland. Breeding programs are being carried out in New Zealand and the United Kingdom. A breeding program has also been launched in the United States, which first depended upon sperm for reproduction but is now reliant on embryos. Spooky Nook is the first farm in Pennsylvania – as well as one of the first in the country – to successfully develop Valais Blacknose sheep. “It takes four generations to arrive at a purebred,” Pamela explains. She takes pride in the fact that Spooky Nook now has two purebreds. The lambing season, which stretches from December through March, is one of trial, tribulation and sleepless nights. Pamela and Mike have the barn outfitted with cameras so they can follow the birthing process from inside the house. If a mother is in need of help, they go to the barn and lend a hand. “One time we had a lamb in trouble and had to bottle-feed it. It ended up living in the house,” Pamela recalls. “You do what you gotta do!” IN 2020, PAMELA took advantage of a small outbuilding on the farm and opened Pamela’s She Shed. It is stocked with an assortment of all-things llama and alpaca, ranging from doormats and throw pillows to jewelry and yarn. She also shops the gift shows and purchases art, clothing and fun things such as message blocks inscribed with sayings such as “If Target had a bar, it would be perfect!” Classes (such as felting) are held. “I’m trying to find someone to lead a knitting class,” she says. ADMITTING THAT some days she feels like she’s “100 years old,” Pamela and Mike are making plans for the future. “We’d like to take 20 acres and grow Christmas trees,” she says. For the time being, however, she is devoted to her animals. “You know, if someone had told me 10 years ago that I’d be living on a farm and raising animals, I would have thought they were out of their minds. Ten years ago, I dressed to the nines everyday to look the part of a spa owner. Now, I muck around in boots, jeans and sweatshirts. But, you know what? I’m having the time of my life!” Spooky Nook Llama and Alpaca Farm is located at 462 Weidler Lane, Manheim. For details about tours, llama walks, classes, etc., call 717-459-3414 or visit spookynookfarm.com and Facebook. L A N C A S T E R CO U N T Y | J U N E 2 0 2 1

PETE & CAROL HETH

FARMING

Airbnb-Style

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The Glamper has been a hit with guests staying at the Heths’ farm. It took Pete a year to restore the classic Airstream. Amenities include an outdoor kitchen and patio, as well as an “outhouse” that provides a spacious bathroom.

Fifteen years ago, after having spent 25-plus years in the construction industry, Pete and Carol Heth began contemplating where their career path would take them next. They experienced their “ah-ha” moment when they embarked on a tour sponsored by a local bedand-breakfast organization. BY SUE LONG PHOTOGRAPHY BY KIRK ZUTELL

he tour opened their eyes to new opportunities. “We spent the next seven years discussing our options,” Carol says of the ideas they had for the cottages and outbuildings that dotted their West Hempfield Township farm. Over the course of those seven years, Pete began to tinker with the idea of slowing down but recognized that bringing his business to a complete halt would not suit his project-driven personality. “I was getting to the point where I didn’t want to chase down jobs anymore,” he explains. “And, I didn’t want to travel all over the place for jobs any longer. I was happy staying local and doing jobs on my terms.” Carol, who had always handled the interior design aspect of projects, shared Pete’s outlook. They agreed that “slowing down” would allow them to really delve into the pros and cons of their proposed venture. For example, they recognized that while they both love to cook, they didn’t want to be tied to the bedand-breakfast policy of providing guests with a morning meal. “Besides, I’m not a morning person,” Carol adds. Fortunately for the Heths, the Airbnb concept – which simply provides travelers with a place to stay and no expectations of a meal – had made its debut several years before they would become members of the hospitality industry. Eight years ago, they forged ahead and remodeled their first cottage. Its success prompted them to transform an outbuilding and remodel another cottage. Three years ago, they upped the ante and went in a new direction – glamping – by restoring an Airstream and positioning it on the edge of woodland on their property. They became hosts through Airbnb (actually, they’ve reached superhost

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Clockwise from above:

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Carol handles all the interior design/ decorating details for each property. For The Glamper, she went in a “kitschy” direction. The tufted-fabric effect on the walls and ceiling was created with wallpaper. The outdoor kitchen features a Big Green Egg for grilling and a granite island. The tiled shower in the “outhouse” provides a view of the sky. The Glamper is also outfitted with a small kitchen and a breakfast bar.

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status, which entails at least a 4.8 rating and meeting other requirements), VRBO (they are rated as premier hosts) and Glamping Hub. Recently, their glamping accommodation was deemed the best in Pennsylvania by a Google News story. As for their goal to slow down, the pandemic stymied that. Because of the unprecedented demand for talented remodelers, Pete continues to be busy. Plus, the Airbnbs have become a full-time job for both of them. “The reservation requests and questions never stop!” says Carol. “Sometimes I look at the time stamp and see people are posting reservations or questions at 2 or 3 in the morning!” As for Pete, he holds out hope that “one of these days, I’ll get to slow down.”

Unique Remodels

It only seemed natural that the Heths would work in tandem on the projects, as their interests and talents have been in sync since they were students at Hempfield High School, where Carol was enthralled by art and Pete by anything relating to wood. Additionally, Pete’s Midwest upbringing on a farm taught him values such as recycling and upcycling. As business partners, they loved working with clients who allowed them to stray from the norm and add the unexpected to projects. That was often achieved through the saved/recycled elements they added to their designs. “Things might sit around for years, but we always find a use for them,” Pete says. Carol’s philosophy mirrored Pete’s. If a product or decorative element caught her eye, she would buy it, knowing she would ultimately find a use for it down the road. The Heths’ mutual interests extend beyond working together. About 10 years ago, the empty-nesters began exploring the food scene in earnest and embraced a healthier lifestyle from a food and cooking perspective. As a result, they remodeled their 1860s farmhouse, adding a large cooking- and entertaining-friendly kitchen. They transformed their pool deck into an outdoor-living area that contains a kitchen and dining areas. The lower level of the house was converted into a bar and game room. They began hosting dinner parties that deviated from the norm in that guests were paired up and given the ingredients and instructions to prepare each of the courses. Kevin Martin, a designer who worked with Carol on the kitchen project, professed his admiration for her style in the September 2015 issue of this magazine, noting she had “the courage to be different” in that she fearlessly incorporated a multiplicity of colors, textures and sheens into the design. Pete added his touch by designing and installing a barrel-shaped ceiling – inspired by the Chihuly Glass ceiling at the Bellagio Hotel in Las Vegas – that he lined with corrugated tin he had been saving for just the right project.

Relaxing in Style

Cooking ultimately became the inspiration for the design of their first project, a cottage they named The Fairview. “Most people take a vacation from cooking, but we wanted to provide our guests with a reason to cook while they are on vacation,” Carol explains. The urge to get cooking apparently overcomes guests as soon as they walk through the door – the Heths treat all their guests to farm-fresh eggs and Pete’s homemade scones, which are beyond tasty. In fact, a guest shared that the scones would be the reason for a return visit. In addition, guests are obviously inspired by the spacious, beautiful and fully equipped farm-style kitchen. “I loved cooking in that fabulous kitchen,” a guest from New York shared. The Fairview’s screened porch that overlooks woodland is another guest-favorite space.

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Clockwise from left: Even though the bathroom inside The Glamper is not spacious, it is stylish and colorful. The Glamper is surrounded by unique privacy fencing. Pete and Carol Heth utilized their construction and interior design skills to transform the cottages and an outbuilding on their farm into Airbnb, VRBO and Glamping Hub rentals. The Heths’ flock of chickens provides welcome gifts for guests – farmfresh eggs. The Heths opened glamping season by preparing dinner at the site. Pete grilled flank steak on the Big Green Egg, while Carol’s contribution was a rice dish and spring salad. Donkeys (and emus) are also part of the welcome committee.

The Heths’ next project involved transforming a small outbuilding into a French Country-inspired getaway they call The BirdHouse. The theme was inspired by some metal cutouts of birds Carol had bought on her travels. Completed five years ago, its selling point is a beautiful outdoor courtyard that contains a fireplace. “That’s the one everyone wants to stay in,” Pete notes. “We could have 100 BirdHouses and they’d always be booked.” Next, they remodeled a one-story cottage that had originally been a horse barn. For this project, they employed a midcenturymodern vibe and named it The Mod Pod. It features a screened porch and a luxe enclosed outdoor shower. The Heths have a sentimental attachment to The Mod Pod – it’s where they started married life and where Carol’s late mother lived before moving to a nursing and rehabilitation center. AFTER TAKING A SMALL BREAK, the Heths began contemplating their next project. “We always wanted to do something in the woods,” Carol says. “I kept seeing all the stories about glamping and I thought, ‘That’s it! We’ll go in a glamping direction!’” The couple then began searching for an Airstream trailer in need of rehabbing. “We found one out near Pittsburgh through Marketplace and bought it,” she says. “It ended up being in worse shape than we originally thought, so Pete decided to take it down to the frame and start over.” It took him the better part of a year to restore the classic Airstream. “It was a learning experience,” he says. “Restoring it involved a different kind of construction.” As for Carol’s part in bringing the Airstream back to life, she decided to go in a “kitschy” direction. First, it appears the inside of

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the trailer is embellished with tufted fabric. “It’s wallpaper,” Carol shares. “Believe me when I say it was a chore to do.” An animal theme is also evident – via dog-related accessories and art that decorate the interior spaces and pink flamingos that are visible outdoors. Art purchased in Savannah, Georgia, is also part of the décor. For The Glamper, the Heths elevated the amenities a bit. While all their properties feature spa-like bathrooms, The Glamper posed a space problem. To remedy the situation, they constructed an “outhouse” adjacent to the Airstream that provides guests with an additional and more spacious bathroom. The Glamper also features a large patio and an outdoor kitchen that is equipped with a granite island and a Big Green Egg, which has become Pete’s favorite way to grill meat and cook other items.

Field of Hope

The Big Green Egg is a story in itself. As they were working on The Fairview, the Heths attended a dinner event that was held in a field at a local farm. While Carol was impressed with the event, she could not help but to consider its potential as a fundraiser. The fact that one of her daughter’s childhood friends was dealing with cancer and the pressures it placed on her family from an emotional and monetary perspective, motivated Carol to gather family and friends to plan and host such an event on the Heths’ farm. She named the event Field of Hope. Through dinner tickets, donations and sponsorships, Field of Hope was able to provide three individuals dealing with serious medical diagnoses and their families with monetary help.

Lancaster County Field of Hope Events June 5, 4-9 p.m.

BANDS FOR HOPE Admission: $20 (includes beverages) Food: Available for purchase from 22 BBQ and Simply Sweet Music: Provided by Oscar’s Box and DJ Jay Eddie (‘50s & ‘60s)

July 24, 4-9 p.m.

BANDS FOR HOPE Admission: $20 (includes beverages) Food: Available for purchase from Good Guys Chicken & Fries and Simply Sweet Music: Provided by Snapsquatch

September 25

6TH ANNUAL FARM-TO-TABLE DINNER Details TBA All events are held at 4338 Fairview Road in West Hempfield Township. For details, visit lancofieldofhope.com, call 717-538-3877 or email lancofieldofhope@gmail.com.

What was perceived as a one-time endeavor took on a life of its own and Lancaster County Field of Hope became a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that, in addition to the annual farm-to-table dinner, now hosts fundraising events yearround. “Since our first dinner in 2016, we’ve been able to help 22 individuals and their families,” Carol says of the more than $180,000 that has been dispersed. Carol credits the generosity of standholders at Lancaster Central Market, local restaurateurs, breweries and wineries, area farmers, other vendors and now, chefs from Washington, D.C., who attended a previous dinner and volunteered their services, for the fact that Field of Hope incurs minimal expenses in executing the event, thus providing recipients with maximum funding. As for the Big Green Egg, Field of Hope is a distributor of the product, with proceeds from any sales going directly to the organization. “We call that venture Green Eggs & Hope,” Carol notes. Each sale includes a bag of charcoal and a cooking experience on the display model.

A Learning Experience

Even before they became involved with Airbnb, the Heths were not strangers to welcoming guests to their home. For years, they owned a house on the Outer Banks of North Carolina, which they rented out through a management company. Having to deal with the aftermath of one too many hurricanes was the final straw and they sold it. After that, they began to explore the world of short-term rental homes through companies such as Airbnb and VRBO. Even today, they like to keep tabs on the industry and take a yearly vacation that includes as many as 25 family members. They also like to take explorative weekend trips. Both scenarios entail accommodations reserved through a

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Exploring Your Options Over the past decade, it seems travelers have been seeking both adventure and a homey place to stay, not to mention one that is pet-friendly. As a result, companies such as Airbnb, VRBO, Glamping.com, Glamping Hub and BringFido are thriving.

The vibe of The BirdHouse is French Country. Guests love its courtyard.

The draw of The Fairview is a fully-equipped and spacious kitchen.

Airbnb Founded in 2008 by three college graduates who were friends and roommates, the original premise was simple: In San Francisco, hotel rooms were both scarce and pricey, especially when conventions were in town. So, the cash-strapped roomies invested in some air mattresses and began advertising their service, calling it AirBed & Breakfast. To their surprise, their minimalistic version of a bed-and-breakfast proved so popular that they developed a business plan and began presenting it to incubator organizations. Admittedly, potential investors deemed it a totally crazy idea but somehow it gained traction and with it, the interest of the traveling public. By March 2009, they had launched a website (the name was shortened to Airbnb) that initially attracted 10,000 users and enlisted 2,500 properties. Since then, the promise of an air mattress on the living room floor has expanded to an international (191 countries) selection of houses, apartments, condos, mountain cabins, seaside cottages and luxury accommodations. Airbnb is now a $31 billion company. For more information, visit airbnb.com. VRBO

The roots of this company extend back to 1995, when a Colorado resident began searching for a way to advertise the availability of a condo he owned at a ski resort. Vacation Rentals By Owner was born. In 2006, the company merged with Home Away and became known as VRBO. In 2015, it was acquired by the Expedia Group. Today, VRBO’s portfolio includes 2 million rentals worldwide, ranging in style from traditional homes to lighthouses and converted storage containers. For more information, visit vrbo.com.

The Mod Pod takes its decorating inspiration from midcentury modern.

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Glamping Hub About seven years ago, two of the company’s co-founders, David Troya and Ruben Martinez, began to notice that travel trends were shifting. Travel enthusiasts were looking for “experiences” that were unique, eco-friendly and bordered on roughing it. As Martinez shared in an interview, “People want to sleep under the stars without having to sleep on the ground.” Based in Denver, Colorado, and Seville, Spain, the company launched in 2013 and now offers customers the choice of more than 35,000 properties and retreats worldwide. For more information, visit glampinghub.com. (Note: There is another company/website called Glamping.com.) BringFido

Sixteen years ago, Melissa Halliburton of Greenville, South Carolina, was growing frustrated by the fact that pet policies for the traveling and dining public were murky at best. She and a group of friends resolved to clarify the matter and spent the better part of a year contacting hotels across America in an effort to obtain their pet policies. The results were posted on a website Melissa named BringFido. Since then, the website has grown to include dog-friendly restaurants of all varieties, events, campgrounds, hiking trails, dog parks/beaches, bed-and-breakfasts, rental properties and more. For more information, visit bringfido.com.

service such as Airbnb or VRBO. “We’ve had both good and bad experiences,” Carol relates. She gives four stars to a property they like to stay at on the Chesapeake Bay in Maryland. “It’s quiet and the views are spectacular,” she says. In Savannah, they stayed in a converted warehouse. “The drawback there was that it was really noisy,” she recalls. In Key West, a compound of three houses was perfect for a family vacation. “One time, we stayed in what I would define as a glorified shed,” Carol says. “It can be really hit or miss. You need to do your homework.” THE LAST YEAR has provided a learning experience like no other. When Covid made its presence known and closures were instituted, the Heths shuttered their business from mid-March to early June. When they reopened, business was brisk. “We stayed busy through the rest of the year and it looks like it will continue that way this year. I think people just wanted a break from seeing the same four walls every day. Yes, they were still seeing four walls here, but they were a different four walls,” Carol theorizes. She attributes the surprising number of locals who visited to that theory. She’ll always remember the young Amish couple who spent their honeymoon at the farm. “They arrived via Uber,” Carol recalls. “He even called just before they arrived to give me a heads up that they were Amish.” (The chickens, emus and donkeys no doubt made them feel at home.) The pandemic has prompted the Heths to devote more time to cleaning the cottages after guests depart. For that reason, they have initiated a 36-hour window between rentals in order to thoroughly clean. “Anything less and I’d spend all my time cleaning!” Carol says. While they welcome pets, the Heths feel the property is not child-friendly and prefer to keep it an adults-only getaway. They’ve come to discover that visitors from urban areas tend to stay put once they arrive and take advantage of food delivery services. “I notice that big-city people want to veg out and relax,” she observes. “Sometimes their cars stay parked until it’s time for them to leave.” Still others take advantage of the opportunity to commune with the natural world. “So many of our guests love the river trails that are just minutes away from our farm,” Carol says. Then, there are the super shoppers who have discovered Lancaster’s art galleries, outlet centers, downtown shops, small towns, farmers markets, unique restaurants and antiques shops and are on the go from morning to night. “Our guests just love to go to Central Market,” she observes. The world has also found its way to the Heths’ farm. “Oh, my gosh, we’ve had people from Scotland, England, Japan, Canada and Germany stay here,” Carol reports. Pete believes their guest book covers “every state – even Alaska.” The Heths treasure the friendships they’ve formed with guests. “We love to interact with them. We’ve become really good friends with some people from Scotland. In fact, we’ve been Zooming with them about once a month since Covid,” Carol notes. “We’ll have other guests we’ve become friendly with come over to our house for dinner or drinks.” Covid has revealed an issue – internet access – the Heths are now trying to remedy. “If we’re full and everyone is trying to access the internet, it’s an issue,” Carol explains. “High-speed service is lacking out our way.” Hoping to solve the problem, the Heths have sought the expertise of several companies. “We’re reviewing several options,” Pete remarks. “I figure it’ll be a good investment,” he says of what appears to be their next big project. The Heths’ properties can be seen/reserved through Airbnb.com, VRBO.com and glampinghub.com.

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Whether you’re planning to spend summer in the city or enjoy a nice summer breeze in the country, celebrate the season in Lancaster County! The following businesses can help to make your summer enjoyable, relaxing and carefree. On view at THE DEMUTH MUSEUM through July 25, Smokestacks and Skyscrapers: Modern Moments from the 20th Century is a special exhibit that features works on loan from the Philadelphia Museum of Art’s collection. Focusing on the urban and industrial landscape of the early and mid-1900s, the exhibit features the works of seven artists, including George Ault, Charles Demuth, Arthur Garfield Dove, Edward L. Loper Sr., John Marin, Charles Sheeler and Dox Thrash. This exhibit is a “homecoming” for Demuth’s Lancaster (In the Province No. 2) from 1920, which portrays one of the few buildings still standing today from among Demuth’s architectural Precisionist works. This is one in a series of American art exhibitions created through a multi-year, multi-institutional partnership formed by the Philadelphia Museum of Art as part of the Art Bridges + Terra Foundation Initiative. Visit demuth.org to learn more about this exhibit and upcoming programs.

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CUSTOM HOMES & ADDITIONS • “AGING IN PLACE” HOME MODIFICATIONS IN-LAW QUARTERS • DISASTER REPAIR/INSURANCE RENOVATIONS: KITCHENS, MASTER SUITES, TOTAL HOME C A L L L A R R Y Z E I S E T AT 7 1 7 - 6 2 9 - 3 7 1 9 T O SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT! zeiset-homes-renovations.business.site L A N C A S T E R CO U N T Y | J U N E 2 0 2 1

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With over 30 years in the industry, ZEISET HOMES & RENOVATIONS’ experience in new construction and remodeling will help make your home projects a breeze from the design stage through completion of the project. Zeiset Homes is a general-contracting company that can help you add in-law quarters and aging-in-place modifications, renovate your kitchen, restore your historic property and much more. See how Larry and his team can help improve your home by calling 717-629-3719. Come enjoy dinner and a show at the DUTCH APPLE DINNER THEATRE. Since 1987, the Dutch Apple has been an entertainment favorite in Lancaster County. Guests enjoy top shows, professional entertainment and a delicious buffet dinner. Throughout the year, Dutch Apple presents one popular show after another, offering classic musicals and contemporary hits. Many of Dutch Apple’s cast members have performed in national tours. Visit dutchapple.com for their current show listings – you’re in for an enjoyable experience! The fresh, new summer edition of WHERE & WHEN PENNSYLVANIA has just arrived! Their Road Trip issue is filled with ideas for in-state getaways. The state is opening

up, and Where & When Pennsylvania is featuring events and bucket-list-destinations within driving distance of Lancaster County. Check out whereandwhen.com for events, destinations and things to do this summer in PA. Located in Wrightsville along the Susquehanna River, JOHN WRIGHT RESTAURANT is the perfect setting for an intimate date night, family celebration or just getting lost in the view. Enjoy lunch, dinner, a Sunday brunch buffet or pizza on their seasonal Pizza Patio. Reservations are recommended. The restaurant also welcomes wedding ceremonies and receptions, rehearsal dinners, bridal showers, birthday parties or any other reason to celebrate. For more information, call 717-252-0416 or visit jwrpa.com. The NATIONAL WATCH & CLOCK MUSEUM has been a beloved Lancaster County attraction for more than 40 years, providing kids and adults alike with hours of learning and enjoyment. As you enter the museum’s beautiful rotunda and begin your tour of international timepieces, you’ll know you’ve stepped into something special – all the time in the world! Learn what makes a clock tick and how clocks revolutionized travel at sea and life on land. Find out how the pocket watch evolved into the wristwatch. Discover the history, art and technology of timekeeping as told by more

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Call 717-898-1900 or visit DutchApple.com 510 Centerville Road • Lancaster, PA 17601 36

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than 13,000 items, the largest collection in North America. Visiting the National Watch & Clock Museum is the closest you’ll come to time travel! And while you’re there, check out the world’s largest library dedicated to the study of timekeeping and a unique, time-themed gift shop filled with books, gifts and gear. Visit museumoftime.org for details on admission hours, tickets and upcoming events. Upgrade your meals this summer with a visit to MR. BILL’S FRESH SEAFOOD, the premier spot in Lancaster County for fresh and frozen seafood year-round. Mr. Bill’s takes pride in the freshness and preparation of every seafood product they sell. Perfect for summer gatherings and cookouts, Mr. Bill’s can provide you with an array of seafood options, including fish, crab, oysters, shrimp, lobsters and more. Party trays of crab claws and shrimp are also available. This summer, Mr. Bill’s will be offering a special Crab Feast To Go. Treat your family and friends to a half-bushel of crabs, six ears of corn and a pound of slaw. The feast feeds about six people. For more information on specials, visit mrbillsseafood.com. With so many challenges presented this year, where to put your “stuff” shouldn’t be one of them. Working from home, schooling from home and exploring new hobbies such as gardening or even a home gym, all take up valuable space in your home. The addition of a garden shed from FOX COUNTRY SHEDS, available in a variety of sizes and styles (and budgets), can solve not only your storage needs but also some of these new challenges. A new shed can easily be converted into your new home gym or a quiet home office, just steps away from the bustle of the household. The Rancher Shed’s extra-tall height is the perfect storage solution for your new garden tools, or even for items belonging to family members who have moved back home. Whatever your current storage needs are, adding an attractive Fox Shed will not only add valuable storage space to your home but will enhance the exterior of your property as well. Concerned about your loved ones tripping on your uneven sidewalk, patio or pool deck? KEYSTONE GUNKRETE specializes in concrete solutions for commercial, residential and agricultural needs. Owner Richie Zook says, “Lifting sunken concrete using our Poly Foam equipment is generally a fraction of the cost of replacement. When homeowners see the cost savings from lifting sunken concrete instead of tearing it out and starting over, they

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717-299-2791

CR AB FEAST TO GO Overstuffed 1/2 bushel of crabs, 6 ears of corn trimmed in their husks and seasoned with our spices, and 1 pound of slaw. Should feed 6 people adequately Take out only • Call for Pricing

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Central Market Regular Hours: Tues., Fri., Sat.: 6am-3pm

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are delighted. Plus, there is no 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, making the concrete ready for immediate foot traffic. He adds that homeowners “will generally lift sidewalks to make them look great again; however, at Keystone Gun-Krete, we are passionate about safety, and once our work is complete and we’ve eliminated the trip hazards, our customers and their guests will be much safer.”

T H E A R E A’ S L A R G E S T S E L E C T I O N O F

outdoor furniture

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 due to COVID-19. They have a large selection of in-stock furniture to choose from, for those that want their furniture right away. Of course, you can still custom order exactly what you want, but you’ll probably have to wait longer than normal for your furniture to arrive. Because of the delays, Bowman’s Stove & Patio recommends shopping as early as possible, so that you have furniture in time for the spring/summer season. Still popular this year are gas fire-pit chat tables paired with curved cushion sofas and cushion swivel rockers. New for 2021 is the Berkeley Collection by Castelle. It features clean, midcentury-modern styling and is a smaller scale than the other larger crescent cushion sofa sets offered at Bowman’s. PRECISE BUILDINGS offers distinctive equestrian structures with Dutch Country character. What defines character in an equine building? Of course, aesthetics are important, but it is your personal style that brings character to your barn. Whether you like exposed timber frames, post-and-beam construction or a modern look, Precise Buildings will work with you to plan, design and construct your dream facility. With over 25 years of experience, Precise uses a combination of skilled Amish craftsmen and innovative engineering and design to deliver exceptional results every day. When they are on-site, in their customers’ homes or on their properties, everyone at Precise strives to treat people, animals, buildings and properties with care and respect. View their work by visiting them online at precisebuildings.com or give their design team a call today at 717-768-3200. KREIDER’S CANVAS SERVICE, INC. has been installing awnings in Lancaster County for more than 40 years. Leslie Kreider shares that Kreider’s Canvas offers an option that makes outdoor decks and patios more useful, more comfortable and a lot cooler. “Our experience with observing the life of a canvas roof is that dark-colored fabrics last three to five years (or more) longer than light-colored fabrics. The main downside to a dark-fabric roof is that it’s warmer under them, especially

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when the top area is closed to seal out rain. We have 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 natural air flow and minimizes trapped hot air,” Leslie says. What’s trending? “Side curtains around porches, pavilions and outdoor kitchens are increasing in demand. The main trend has been the increased use of curtains to block wind when needed, while still having the ability to open up to full view of the outside.” Visit SPOOKY NOOK FARM for a perfect day in Lancaster County. Hang out with their many llamas and alpacas, as well as their sheep and horses, and learn all about the beautiful creatures. The farm breeds, shows and sells the animals, so they will be sure to answer any questions you may have. Spooky Nook Farm is excited to announce that they are now the first Lancaster County farm to breed 100% Valais Blacknose sheep, also known as “the world’s cutest sheep!” The farm offers tours of the property and llama walks for all ages. To visit Spooky Nook Farm, schedule an appointment, which they can personalize to your needs. They welcome

• • • •

FARM STORE FARM TOURS LLAMA WALKS VALAIS BLACK NOSED SHEEP

462 Weidler Lane, Manheim, Pa. 17545 • 717-459-3414

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schools and small groups, as well as birthday parties and special events on the farm. Be sure to visit their farm boutique, Pamela’s She Shed, for clothing, candles and much more! Call 717-459-3414 to schedule your visit and discuss how Spooky Nook Farm can make your experience unforgettable. Want a fresh look for summer? Whether you are in need of a quick touch-up, glamorous blowout or a blissful body treatment, a visit to GLAMOUR ROOM will make you feel brand new. Glamour Room is an Aveda salon featuring vegan and cruelty-free products. Located on North Duke Street in downtown Lancaster, it is the premier salon for special occasion hairstyling, skincare, esthetic services and makeup. Update your look with the latest beauty trends, including balayage hair coloring, HaloCouture extensions or a lash lift. Owner Bobbi Nicole Bentzel has been making people feel their best since 2004. “After going to school, taking extensive classes and working in Los Angeles, New York City and Philadelphia, I wanted to bring what I learned from the big cities back home,” Bobbi Nicole says. Visit lancasterglam.com to book your appointment or purchase a gift certificate to pamper a loved one.

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FOODOGR APHER

Trail Eats

Into the Wild Open Spaces

TEXT AND PHOTOGRAPHS BY JORDAN BUSH

Hiking into the Pacific Northwest’s Hoh Rainforest, located outside of Forks, Washington, on the Olympic Peninsula.

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If we’ve learned anything over the past year, it’s the fact that the natural world provides a panacea for boredom, anxiety and even our reliance on technology. Many of us have discovered that a hiking expedition or a camping trip can provide a passport to another world. We also learned that unplugging and trading the comforts of home to commune with Mother Nature are freeing experiences. We’ve also discovered the joys of cooking in the wild.

scaping into nature – for a litany of reasons, with Covid being the latest – has been the topic of many books and movies. Two that come to mind are Into the Wild, Jon Krakauer’s best-selling novel (later a movie) that told the story of Chris McCandless, a child of suburbia who, upon graduating from college, decided to take a two-year trek through the American West, with Alaska being his ultimate destination. He made it to Alaska, only to lose his life as a result of ingesting toxic berries he had foraged in an effort to survive the Alaskan wilderness. Then, there’s the best-selling Wild, written by Cheryl Strayed, who sought to escape a life of bad choices and tragic losses by hiking the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail (2,650 miles through California, Washington and Oregon). As played by Reese Witherspoon in the movie of the same name, we see Cheryl realize on her first day of what would become her 1,100-mile, 94day trek that she purchased the wrong type of fuel for her camp stove, forcing her to subsist on mush (water mixed into grain) for the next several days. Both of these novels/movies drive home the fact that hiking, backpacking and camping are not walks in the park. Whether you are packing your day bag for a casual afternoon hike on a rail-trail or heading deep into the backcountry with water filters and bear canisters in tow, it’s all about embracing and enjoying the experience responsibly.

Day vs. Backcountry Hiking Anyone who has carried groceries from the “wrong end” of the grocery store to the parking lot knows just how L A N C A S T E R CO U N T Y | J U N E 2 0 2 1

Epic views along the Olympic Coast Trail in Washington state included a cliffside perch on Second Beach near Teahwhit Head, which served as our camping site. Not for the faint of heart, high rope ladders and bluffs needed to be scaled on the trail, eventually leading to this vantage point.

heavy food can get. For some, especially through-hikers who make it their goal to traverse extremely long distances such as the Appalachian Trail, achieving the absolute lowest weight for the journey is paramount. Such hikers measure their kits in grams in order to trim weight. Day hikers have a much shorter packing list: trail mix, snack bars and water. Even for a day hike with both a short packing list and distance to travel, underestimating snacks and water is an easy and oft-made mistake. While backpacking requires a different approach and equipment than a day-hike or car camping, some tips apply across the board. How much weight to sling over your shoulders has long been considered a percentage of body weight. According to Recreational Equipment, Inc. (REI), a recreation-services company based in Kent, Washington, “a loaded dayhiking pack should not weigh more than about 10% of your body weight.” For a backpacking trip, REI suggests doubling that amount. (Cheryl Strayed made the mistake of toting a backpack that equaled half her body weight.)

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The math provides a starting point but the reality is not that simple. Your needs on every trip will vary based on the region, the pace and distances traveled, the number of people who share the overall burden and the degree of comforts you seek. Energy, or caloric intake, is a key driver for how much food to carry. As you upgrade your gear and refine your packing list, that number will fluctuate. If you’re nervous about taking on a lengthy hiking trip, consider building in the option to car camp for a night in the middle of the week. Depending on the park, you might find a proper shower and the opportunity to resupply at a grocery store, which will allow you to indulge in heavier food items such as fresh produce, meat and drinks.

New Priorities For ages, this idea of minimizing weight at all costs was the guiding rule in packing for a hike. Today, weighing the balance between enjoyment and dropping weight begs the question, if you are not enjoying the journey, why are you out there? If not, is it worth all the effort? After

a long slog, when you’re tired, sweaty, covered in mud, hungry and cold (or hot) and your feet are blistered, a dry pair of socks and a satisfying meal are miracle workers. To that point, backpackers have started carrying fresh foods, produce, and even eggs onto the trail to enjoy the first couple of days. In an industry full of titanium sporks and space-age materials, small cast-iron skillets might now be found along a trail.  When it comes to fatigue, food is the ultimate motivator. The better it tastes, the more you have to look forward to every step of the way. Which would you rather have after a physically grueling trek: a rehydrated freeze-dried meal or pasta with chicken and olive oil? How about a fresh apple or graham crackers with cookie butter for dessert? I thought so. Carefully consider weight versus the reward of your overall experience.

The Devil is in the Details Before you go, research what permits are required for overnight trips. Are open fires permitted? Can you cook over a fire?

Are water refilling stations and restrooms located along the trail? What might the weather conditions be like and could they change drastically on your trip? Check to see if National Park Serviceapproved bear-proof canisters are required or available to rent. These canisters are not light, but they are effective at keeping bears and raccoons from robbing you blind, leaving you hungry and angry. All of these factors will impact your shopping list and how you prepare.

Elevate Your Grocery List The hiking industry is not without freeze-dried meal options, including freeze-dried ice cream sandwiches. (Convenient and lightweight, many have decent flavor but they’re often expensive and high in sodium.) Bulk dried foods are an economical option for creating varied blends of trail mix, while minimizing packaging and the waste you’ll need to carry out or properly dispose of on a trail. For breakfast, pancake mix with cinnamon and powdered eggs adds variety beyond dry cereal or oatmeal. After an exhausting day, instant mashed

potatoes, risotto, rice, quinoa, ramen and cheesy macaroni packets help to build hearty meals. Chicken, beef and vegetable bouillon cubes can be tossed in for added flavor. If you are cooking on a skillet, remember to bring a small bottle of olive oil or cooking spray, along with a spoon for mixing.  An option for vegans and omnivores alike, textured vegetable protein (TVP) is a lightweight, soy-based meat alternative. Bob’s Red Mill makes TVP, which can be mixed into pasta or added to beans with chili powder, garlic powder and other seasonings. Pouches of salmon, tuna and chicken are protein-dense and contain enough sodium to help recover after expending energy. They can be heated, seasoned, prepared with pasta or eaten right out of the pouch. Tortillas take up little room and double as utensils. Dried fruit and fruit bark make for a sweet, lightweight snack you can make at home. If you have a food dehydrator or want an excuse to buy one, preparing for a hike is a great time to use one. A travel-size bottle of your favorite hot sauce, dried herbs and spices weighs next to nothing but will add flavor to your menu. Bacon bits, sesame seeds and

pepperoni/salami pack a lot of punch. If you know what you are looking for, you might be able to safely forage nuts, mushrooms or berries along the way. Use fresh foods first and remember the carry weight will drop each day.

Trailside Food Prep Consider what prep you can complete in advance of your trip to minimize packaging and save time later. Odor-proof, resealable bags that help keep food dry and accessible (and animals away) are ideal for oatmeal, rice, beans, coffee and other dry goods. Keep in mind that empty tin cans will need to be carried out of the woods for proper disposal, making foil pouches a lighter and more convenient choice.   Before setting up a tent, identify three separate areas in a triangular shape, spaced 200-300 feet apart. One area is designated for sleeping arrangements, a second for storing food and a third for prepping or eating food. Animals and insects are the last visitors you want to find in your sleeping bag and if they smell food in one location, hopefully they won’t be interested in the other two. Positioning your tent upwind gives you the greatest security. If bear canisters are

There’s more to enjoying hiking food than freeze-dried meals, which are expensive and often high in sodium. And, personal experience taught me that good hiking boots are a must!

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not necessary, store food in a designated bag roped off high from a tree branch and far away from your tent for relative peace of mind. Fires are not always permissible along trails, so folding stoves are essential for a hot meal. Like all of your gear, test your stove at home by boiling a pot of water to gauge how much fuel to bring, keeping in mind that wind and temperatures will vary. Don’t wait until a dark, fatigued night in the wilderness to learn what you should already know. Pack full canisters of fuel to ensure they don’t leak and go empty before you arrive. Remember, empty canisters need to be hiked out of the woods with you, so gauge your needs as best you can.

Food Safety Food prep should be done away from water sources in order to avoid contaminating the supply. Wash your hands with soap and water before and after handling food. Designate towels for food purposes and towels for bathing and hand washing. Try to avoid reaching into a bag of shared food like trail mix; instead, pour it into an open hand.

Water, Water Everywhere Top to bottom: Foil packets of salmon, flavored chicken and tuna add flavor with little cleanup or disposal to manage on the trail. They’re great additions to pasta, orzo and textured vegetable protein (TVP). The ability to heat water is critical to enjoying trailside meals, including pasta. Remember to test your equipment before leaving home and pack enough fuel to heat water in a variety of weather conditions. Durable plastic utensils purchased from REI are lightweight and affordable.

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One of my go-to water flavorings are Nuun electrolyte tablets, which add a citrusy fizz to filtered water. Alpine’s Spiced Apple Cider packets are excellent around a campfire and, like instant coffee, can be enjoyed hot or cold. Hot cocoa and teabags are musts if you are boiling water. There are endless options for water filters, each with different strengths and costs. After a long day, forcing large amounts of water through a filter for drinking and cooking is an awful chore. Gravity-fed filters with “dirty” water bladders that filter into a clean bladder, such as the Platypus GravityWorks Water Filter System, put this issue to rest. Concerning water storage and filtration, the adage “Two is one, one is none” applies. On the second-to-last day of a multi-day trip with friends, our only water filter broke, reducing us to iodine tablets we hoped not to use. Our water supply was exhausted the morning we hiked out, the trail winding along the blue Pacific Ocean no less. When we arrived at the trailhead parking lot, a fellow hiker long-tossed me a cold can of Pabst Blue Ribbon after hearing our story. I will never forget watching that can come sailing towards me; it remains the sweetest beer of my life.

Above: Breathtaking sunsets on Third Beach and colorful tide pools – with Ochre sea stars – made the miles slip away. Anemones, sea urchins and mussels commonly blanket the shoreline. Old friends from school days long passed, Nevin King and Travis Leaman, take in the rugged coastline near Toleak Point.

A sea stack along the Third Beach Trail in the Olympic Wilderness.

A seal pup rests alone on the beach, carefully observed by a parent hunting nearby, its head bobbing up and down out in the waves. Passersby often fear that seal pups are abandoned, yet they should be left undisturbed for 24 hours unless they are in visible distress.

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Leave No Trace As more people continue to flock to the great outdoors, it’s the responsibility of everyone to preserve and protect the environment. It’s important to minimize your environmental impact as much as possible. According to the Boy Scouts of America, we should leave our campsites as clean as when we found them, if not better.

Where To Go It’s no secret I love hiking around French Creek State Park in Chester and Berks counties. It’s close to home and

it’s ideal for both camping and day-hikes without having to slog a lot of gear on the trail. Along the Susquehanna River, Pinnacle Scenic Overlook and the shorter trail at Chickies Rock County Park offer spectacular views. On the eastern side of the county, Money Rocks County Park offers 300 acres of woodland. North of us, Mount Gretna has inviting wooded trails. Of course, there’s nothing like hitting the road. Fort McAllister State Park outside of Savannah, Georgia (two trips and counting), is one of my favorite destinations. The South’s massive oak trees, Spanish moss and salt marshes have

provided a sense of wonder and solitude during multiple camping road trips we have taken to New Orleans and back.

ALFRESCO

to eat Outside

Beginning June 1st, Lombardo’s will offer outdoor dining, alfresco, in true Italian style. Enjoy the savory flavors of fresh-made, authentic Italian dishes cooked with love. Indoors or out – it’s the most authentic Italian dining experience this side of Italy. lunch Tuesday to Saturday 11–3pm

dinner Tuesday to Thursday 4–9:30pm

dinner Friday and Saturday 4–10pm

Reservations required. Visit lombardosrestaurant.com or call 717.394.3749 for hours and reservations. 216 Harrisburg Avenue Lancaster, PA 17603

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MY MOST EPIC backpacking trip took me to the Pacific Northwest, where I hiked through the Hoh Rainforest in Olympic National Park and along the Olympic Coast Trail in Washington state. The temperate climate was remarkable and enabled us to spot banana slugs, seals, bald eagles and purple starfish in tide pools filled with every color of seaweed imaginable. That trip was a real learning curve for me. I made the terrible decision to pack not one but two DSLR cameras for redundancy, plus a full-size tripod, while also wearing sneakers. Every pebble could be felt on the stone-laden trail, making a stop at the Forks Outfitters an urgent matter. Food and rest were the sole motivators those first couple of days. Then, I bought a pair of Merrell waterproof hiking boots. It was the most I’d ever spent on footwear, but I soon learned they were worth every penny. Those boots transformed the trip, taking my attention from agony to the beauty of exploring nature. Over time, the tread wore out and they’re no longer waterproof, so a nearly identical pair has replaced them. Despite the fact that they’re no longer serviceable, I’ll never get rid of those old Merrells!

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.

The D I N I N G G U I D E HONG KONG GARDEN CHINESE RESTAURANT 1807 Columbia Avenue, Wheatland Shopping Center, Lancaster. 717-394-4336. Our chefs have been serving Lancaster Countians their favorite entrées for 41 years. To add variety, they are always creating new and exciting specials. Vegetable entrées and children’s menu available. We offer lavish lunch and dinner menus, made with quality, fresh ingredients, for dine-in or take-out. Hours: Sun., 11:30 a.m.-8:30 p.m; closed Mon.; Tues.Thurs., 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri., 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sat., 12-10 p.m.

THE STOCKYARD INN 1147 Lititz Pike, Lancaster. 717-394-7975. Stockyardinn.com. The Stockyard Inn is a Lancaster County tradition of dining excellence. Built in 1750, the original Inn was once owned by President James Buchanan. Specializing in prime rib, steak (cut in-house) and fresh seafood. Business meetings and private party facilities available.

A Century of EXCELLENCE TRADITION HISTORY and ...

Come

CELEBRATE L ANCASTER with us on

June 25th!

STEAK Take-Out and Indoor Dining Available

1147 Lititz Pike, Lancaster, PA www.stockyardinn.com (717) 394-7975

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TA B L E

for T W O

J O H N W R I G H T R E S TA U R A N T Pictured front to back are Tuna Tataki (tuna, garlic edamame, sesame soy sauce and spicy mayo), Rampi Scampi and Jamaican Jerk Pork Chop, as well as pairings of wine and beer.

FAR M-F R ES H I N G REDIEN TS & A RIVER VIEW BY ROCHELLE A. SHENK PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICK GOULD

The John Wright Restaurant combines local farm-fresh ingredients, an unparalleled waterfront view and a bit of history to create a relaxing and memorable dining experience.

he restaurant makes its home in a 27,000-square-foot brick building that was constructed in 1916 as a warehouse for the Wilton foundry. It was used as a silk mill from 1932 until the early 1960s. In 1965, it was purchased by Donsco, which used it as a warehouse and manufacturing facility for its line of John Wright products. In 1974, a factory outlet store opened in the building. The restaurant’s humble beginnings date back to 1988, when it was simply a sandwich shop – serving only breakfast and lunch – for patrons of the John Wright Factory Store. During the summer, a tent was erected to allow guests to enjoy outdoor dining with a river view. Word spread and the eatery became a popular destination for shoppers and locals alike because of its unique riverside setting. Since then, John Wright has become a multifaceted dining destination, offering indoor and outdoor dining, full-service bars and event space for weddings, etc. All areas of the restaurant take full advantage of the spectacular riverfront setting. The décor celebrates local talent and craftsmanship. The restaurant’s barstools, dining tables and outdoor bars were built/repurposed by a local craftsman who used fallen trees from the area for the project. The wine cellar was crafted across the street at Donsco. A historical display behind the reception desk features mechanical toys and banks created by the John Wright Company.

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JIM SWITZENBERG, the restaurant’s director of operations and executive chef, points out that John Wright is, in reality, two restaurants in one. While the indoor areas – including the spectacular Four Seasons Room that features timber construction and glass walls – focus on casual fine dining and farm-to-table, he notes that the warm weather brings “a whole different vibe,” thanks to the 400-seat Pizza Patio, which is open MaySeptember, and its indoor/outdoor bars and wood-fired Italian pizza oven. John Wright is also unique in that it offers a third entity – the 180-seat River Room, which boasts a separate entrance, exposed brick walls, beautiful wood floors, a bar and a spacious second-floor patio. The restaurant’s setting makes it a perfect destination for an outdoor ceremony by the water and a reception with a view in the River Room. AS FOR THE MENU, local is the key ingredient. “We are all about local and non-GMO products,” Jim shares. “We’ve gotten better over the past few years at eliminating GMOs from our ingredients. We work with local farmers to source produce, meat and dairy products.” Local ingredients include produce from Shady Acres Farm (Elizabethtown); produce and butter from Lehman’s Farm (Wrightsville); dairy products from Pine View Dairy (Lancaster); produce and herbs from Horn Farm Center (York); beef products from Locust Point Cattle Co. (Dover);

cheese from Farm Fromage (Lancaster); and honey from Gingrich Apiaries (Dover). Flour is purchased from a mill in the region. The kitchen staff’s talents extend beyond cooking. Beef for burgers is ground in-house, while sausage is made in-house, as is the sauerkraut. “We work with the farmer who raises the pigs,” Jim says. John Wright’s chefs also create desserts, ice cream and pizza dough in-house. The newest addition is a pasta machine, allowing all of the restaurant’s pasta to now be made from scratch in-house. “Over the past year, we’ve adapted and changed so we could continue to serve our customers but also keep our loyal staff working. When we purchased the pasta machine, we also pursued certification as a food manufacturer and we started an offpremises catering company,” Jim explains. A new service offered by the restaurant is Real Food Emporium, which launched in February. It was established as a way to bring fresh, local ingredients and to-go family meals to the area. Some of the items that can be found in the emporium are entrées such as shepherd’s pie and beef stroganoff, mac-and-cheese, house-made ice cream, cakes and signature desserts, as well as locally sourced milk, cheese, eggs and honey. John Wright is also partnering with El Serrano to offer their Finca de Torres wines. JIM DESCRIBES the spring menu as “the best, most flavorful menu we’ve had.” Menu items include cream of crab soup, roasted garlic hummus, Chesapeake nachos, caprese and roasted-beet & warm goat-cheese salads, oyster po’boy, smoked brisket and Wrightsville Rachel sandwiches, foundry and southwest black bean burgers, bacon bleu cheese meatballs, applewood-smoked salmon, Jamaican-jerk pork chop, pepper-crusted filet and pastafree vegetable lasagna. The Pizza Patio has its own menu that features salads, burgers, sandwiches, kabobs and an array of 10-inch woodfired pizzas. (While some items on John Wright’s Jamaican menu are offered glutenJerk Pork Chop: free, pizza is not.) local pork, The bar selection pineapplemango relish, focuses on local brews and cilantro crema spirits. The eight taps feature a and mashed rotating selection of Pennsylvania sweet potatoes. craft beer. Craft beer is also available in bottles and cans, and there’s also a selection of domestic and imported beer. Spirits are from local distillers including Thistle Finch Distillery (Lancaster) and Stoll & Wolfe Distillery (Lititz). Finca de Torres wine, as well as wine from Allegro Winery in Brogue, are included in the wine selections. The restaurant also hosts a number of special events throughout the year including cigar dinners, Oktoberfest and benefits for the Hellam Township Police Department’s K-9 unit (the next one is May 27). “We try to be community friendly,” Jim says.

Rampi Scampi: jumbo shrimp, tomatoes, garlic ramp butter, basil, white wine and house-made fettuccini.

Jim Switzenberg, the restaurant’s director of operations and executive chef, is a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America. His career has taken him to New York, Los Angeles, Houston, Italy and Spain. He served as a senior instructor for HACC’s culinary program before joining John Wright in 2011.

The Real Food Emporium launched in February.

The Four Seasons Room

John Wright Restaurant is located at 234 N. Front St., Wrightsville. Reservations are recommended for both indoor and outdoor dining. Take-out is available. Call 717-252-0416 or visit jwrpa.com and on Facebook. Check online for current hours of operation.

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The B U S I N E S S A D V A N T A G E

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It’s a Beautiful Day WITH MARTINE CAJAS

About Martine

Born in Lima, Peru, Martine and his family emigrated to the United States in 1985. “My mother’s little sister was pen pals with a boy named David Brill from York County,” he explains. Years later, David would visit her in Peru and, as fate would have it, true love blossomed and they got married. The Cajas family settled in New Oxford, Adams County. “We were the first Spanish people – actually the first minority students – in the school district,” he recalls. “I remember the teacher taking me out to the playground that first day. At first, the kids just stood and stared. Then, they began approaching me, wanting to touch my skin and hair. Nobody looked like me – all I saw were kids with blonde hair and blue eyes.” Martine and his brothers, David and Ivan, also faced a language barrier. “We spoke minimal English,” he explains. Their aunt, Julie Torres, took the boys under her wing and tutored them after school. Grateful for the opportunity they had been given to pursue the American Dream, Martine’s parents, Ivan and Carmen Cajas, worked multiple jobs. They encouraged their children to become involved in as many school activities as possible. “I was involved in everything!” Martine recalls. “I think being the new kid at school forced me to be the best I could be and taught me to be a leader. I pushed myself to be the best because I didn’t want to be judged in a negative way and I didn’t want to let my family down.” MARTINE’S GO-GETTER WORK ETHIC emerged at the age of 12, when he began doing odd jobs at his Uncle Manuel Torres’ restaurant, El Serrano, in York. He went on to attend Penn State York and later landed in New York, where he pursued modeling. “I love fashion!” he says. He worked in banking and retail for a time, as well. He also continued working for his Uncle Manuel at El Serrano’s Lancaster location, prompting a move to Lancaster in 2001. Through El Serrano, he became acquainted with Julie Bashore, the owner of House of Clarendon. He went to work for Julie and, in the process, learned how to design and bake cakes. When Julie decided to sell the business in 2004, Martine became its new owner. “I learned so many things along the way,” he says of his career path that led him to become a business owner. “Still, things were tough in the

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beginning. I had to make a name for myself and prove myself.” He has also had to confront two crises. The first came with the Great Recession beginning in 2008. “The next three years were tough,” he admits. Still, he kept an eye to the future. Through the House of Clarendon, he became involved in the wedding industry, adding event planning to his résumé. His involvement in weddings led to the creation of the multimedia platform, Dream Weddings, which once included a television show and now consists of a website/ social media and a magazine (now on hiatus). In 2012, he moved House of Clarendon to Harrisburg Avenue. Of course, nothing could have prepared him for ramifications of the pandemic. “We normally create 80 to 100 wedding cakes a year,” he notes. “Five-tier wedding cakes are our bread-and-butter. In 2020, we lost all that. The few orders we did get were mostly simple, twotier designs or cupcakes, which are all the rage again. Fortunately, we’ve been able to pivot and put more emphasis on special-occasion cakes. We offer local delivery through DoorDash and other services.” An online “store” for cupcakes – shipped anywhere in the U.S. – is set to debut.

The State of Matrimony

“Covid changed everything,” Martine says. Outside of the obvious vendors who have been impacted, he notes that hotels, restaurants and shopping were affected. “Over the last 10 years, Lancaster has become a wedding destination thanks to our unique venues,” he says of barns and chic urban sites. He is of the opinion that weddings as we once knew them won’t return until sometime in 2022 or perhaps 2023. He has enjoyed working with couples to design (or redesign) their dream weddings that obviously look different than they originally imagined. “Couples are liking micro-weddings,” he remarks. “They bring a different vibe and energy, as they are more intimate and sentimental. They even allow you to splurge on items – food, beverages and flowers, for example – that you would not have been able to do for a larger wedding.” He notes another trend: couples going ahead and getting married on their chosen wedding days and planning fab receptions once restrictions are lifted. Whether you are newly engaged or are planning a post-Covid reception, Martine

Photo: Joe Kelly Photography

Imagine Covid doesn’t exist and you have a day off from work. You are free to spend the day doing exactly as you please. Inspired by U2’s It’s a Beautiful Day – “It’s a beautiful day, don’t let it get away” – we asked Martine Cajas to describe his perfect Lancaster County day.

advises you to contact vendors and venues NOW for 2022 and 2023 dates. “Everyone’s going to be busy,” he predicts.

In His Own Words

MARTINE’S PERFECT LANCASTER COUNTY DAY I miss so many things. I miss being creative and networking with other vendors, many of whom have become my friends. Pre-Covid, we would unwind after a wedding by going out for drinks – The Exchange was a favorite – and dancing the night away at Tellus360. From a personal perspective, I miss being with my family. I have aunts and uncles I haven’t seen in over a year. I miss seeing my three nephews, who are 10, 11 and 20 years old. I miss kissing and hugging everyone! I miss going out for lunch and dinner. I just miss people! I think of myself as a social butterfly whose wings have been clipped. Because of all that I miss, my perfect day would revolve around throwing a huge party. In my perfect world, it would be a party that celebrates life as we knew it and, hopefully, one we will come to know again. There would be no masks or social distancing; guests would be free to greet each other with hugs and kisses. There would be lots of fun, laughter and, of course, dancing. As this would be a perfect party, guests would be treated to delicious food, flowing drinks, beautiful flowers and linens and, of course, fabulous desserts! I think pink (or white) Champagne would be the perfect – and most appropriate – flavor for the cake and mousse filling. We’ll party like it’s 1999 or, fingers crossed, a Covid-free 2022. For more information, visit houseofclarendon.com.

Photo Credit: Garman Builders

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WEEKDAYS 5-8PM ∙ WEEKENDS NOON-6PM All homes can be viewed virtually with our spectacular 3D technology. Many homes will be open for in-person visits as well! The innovative designs and distinctive details will excite and inspire you. When you find the home of your dreams on tour, contact our BIA builders and make it yours!

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