GARMAN BUILDERS Unveils Their State-of-the-Art Design Studio
D E S I G N I N G FA M I LY Eileen and Aaron Riddle of KbE Design & Build, and Elizabeth Riddle-Hash of Ethan Allen
HOME ISSUE
WHY CHOOSE Argires Marotti Neurosurgical Associates of Lancaster? Because as of March 1st, we can accommodate all your pain needs. Please join us in welcoming Dr. Jack Smith! Education
Temple University School of Medicine
Residency and Fellowship
Virginia Commonwealth University Hospital
Certifications
American Board of Anesthesiology Subspecialty-Pain Medicine
Conditions and Procedures Jack Smith, MD
Pain Management • Peripheral joint injections • Epidural steroid injections Facet joint injections • SI joint injections • Medial branch block and radiofrequency ablation Sympathetic nerve blocks • Nerve blocks with US guidance Chemodenervation of nerves with RFA and/or neurolytics Geniculate nerve RFA for post TKA pain and patients who are not candidates for TKA Botox for migraines and spasticity • Occipital nerve blocks with US guidance Spinal cord stimulation trials and implants • Peripheral nerve stimulation Intrathecal pump management and implantation for primarily cancer pain Trigger Point Injections • EMG/NCS
160 NORTH POINTE BLVD., SUITE 200 • LANCASTER (717) 358-0800
ARGIRESMAROTTI.COM
SMILE Whiten your smile and help a child. Every time you brighten your smile at WHITE FAMILY DENTAL, between March and June, children benefit through the Smiles for Life program. To date, White Family Dental has raised over $500,000 for children. This year we will add more bright smiles to central Pennsylvania and put smiles on children’s faces too.
For more details on Smiles for Life or to schedule your appointment to whiten your smile, call any of our offices.
W W W . W H I T E F A M I LY D E N TA L . C O M Elizabethtown
100 Continental Dr. Elizabethtown, PA 717-367-1336
Elizabethtown
Masonic Village Elizabethtown, PA 717-366-2466
Manheim
108 Doe Run Rd. Manheim, PA 717-879-9700
Willow Street
212 Willow Valley Lakes Dr., Suite 209 Willow Street, PA 717-740-2200
Reimagine Senior Living at Willow Valley Communities From your first visit, you’ll know you’ve arrived at a very special place. For nearly 35 years, Willow Valley Communities has been setting the standard in reimagined senior living. But, we’re much more than a senior living community. We’re a way of life. Here, you’ll discover new passions, making the most of your days and sharing experiences with warm and welcoming friends. You’ll enjoy take-your-breath-away landscaping and meticulously-maintained campuses. You’ll dine on exceptional cuisine at any of our 11 venues. Plus, you’ll thrive among our rich array of award-winning amenities. All while covered by the security of our Lifecare Promise, which means predictable future expenses because your monthly service fee won’t increase if you need an enhanced level of care later.
Let us show you why so many of your former neighbors now call Willow Valley Communities home. When you call or visit, be sure to ask about our upcoming new construction featuring villa homes and luxury apartments, SouthPointe at Lakes.
877.752.1610 | Info@WillowValley.org WillowValleyCommunities.org | Lancaster, PA
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This is how we restore hope. Developing new technologies to give premature babies the support they need to survive, and thrive. This is why we’re always researching, learning and innovating: to find solutions that help the people of our community and beyond. Because this is the health we need to live the way we want.
This is Penn State Health. thisispennstatehealth.org/research
HEA-15124-20-130782-0120
t h e l ong
&
Wow! That was a fast five months between the Washington Nationals
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winning the World Series and the opening day (March 28) of the 2020 baseball season. Baby Shark is still resonating in my head! I gave the Nats a good five, six, maybe eight pounds over the course of two months. It all began in late August, when we found a restaurant on Ocracoke Island (Outer Banks) that was carrying a Nats game on the television in the bar. It was one of those nail biters, so we instructed the waiter to keep bringing out the hush puppies until we told him to stop. E DY NN At about our fifth round, the KE K C RI guy seemed genuinely ND KE confused. “We’re from EY Pennsylvania,” I explained. “This is our only chance to indulge in hush puppies.” The Nats won. A couple of nights later, we found a bar close to our rental that would be carrying a smorgasbord of sports – a Nats game (another win), a Clemson football game (they won 52-14), the U.S. Open (Coco Gauff) and a Baltimore Ravens-Washington Redskins pre-season game (sell the team, Dan!). Stuffing ourselves with hush puppies resulted in a two-for-four night.
Back home, I didn’t have to scope out sports bars – I have
a stop to buy a container of ice cream. I passed through Strasburg on my way to Willow Street. The Strasburg Creamery beckoned – I recalled that in October 2018 they had a yummy flavor called Candy Corn (don’t knock it until you’ve tried it). “I’ll just get a dip,” I told myself. So, I went in and upon discovering they didn’t have it, I weighed my options – bolt or be courteous and order something else. I got a dip of pumpkin and went outside to enjoy the beautiful weather. I was torn. Should I or shouldn’t I still get my container of Choco Mint Chip? The Nats needed all the help they could get! But, did I really need to eat more ice cream? I looked around and thought to myself, “Wait a minute. I’m sitting along Main Street in Strasburg eating ice cream. I think this will do the trick!” The Nats won that night – I’ll give the Strasburg Creamery the credit for that one. That weekend I went to Allentown to watch Saturday’s game with Charlie and Jenn. It was his birthday, so I offered to bring a cake. I came up with the brilliant idea to have it resemble a baseball. I wanted to have Oregon Dairy write “Go, Nats!” on it but I was afraid it would jinx the team and nixed the idea. We devoured the cake and the Nats won 3-1.
Dish, and for some reason, I get all the sports broadcasts from D.C., which makes me happy as a clam because I can watch the Nats to my heart’s content during baseball season. Poor Charlie (my son), who lives in Allentown, also has Dish, but he gets all the sports out of New York. Needless to say, getting through September made me a nervous wreck. That’s when I made a discovery – it seemed that every time the Nats played and I ate Turkey Hill’s Choco Mint Chip ice cream, they won. Believe me, some nights I’d go through an entire container, and I’m not talking about the little pint-sized ones. I became obsessed with eating that flavor of ice cream whenever the Nats played. One night I slipped up and just had the dregs of a container left and spent half the game scraping it clean. Thank goodness they won.
While watching the game, Charlie suggested that I
September, which included a do-or-die series against the
through Washington. Charlie and I went. I’m still looking at all the tchotchkes I bought and wondering, “What was I thinking?” There’s something curious about the calendar I bought. Anthony Rendon is Mr. December 2019. Did he already know he would be leaving when he posed for the picture last summer? Otherwise, he would have been a natural for Mr. October 2020.
Phillies, melted into October. The Nats made it into the one-game Wild Card round and had to play the Brewers. It was a choco-mint victory! Then, it was on to do battle with the Dodgers (got out of that series by winning three out of five). Bring on the Cardinals and more Choco Mint Chip! For one of the nights that Stephen Strasburg was scheduled to pitch, I planned my day to include running errands in the afternoon, ending with
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should check out a DC sports radio show called The Sports Junkies that is simulcast on NBC Sports Washington. I did so that Monday and got hooked. The show goes on the air at 6 a.m. I was regularly calling it a day well after midnight because I had to watch all the post-game coverage on FOX and MLB. However, without fail, I would wake up to watch The Sports Junkies at 6 on the dot. I was not only gaining weight, but I was suffering from exhaustion! From people who called into the show, I learned that I wasn’t the only person who had developed strange eating habits, wore the same shirt, sat in the same place, etc. for each game.
The dream season came to an end on November 2, with a parade
– Suzanne Starling-Long
Where are you headed, financially? Where are you headed, financially? Consider the Consider the advantages ofadvantages investment of investment management management
Even if you lead what seems like a simple, no-frills know Even if you lead life, whatyou seems likethat a achieving certain goals requires simple, no-frills life, you know thatmoney. Ifachieving you plancertain to retire, forrequires example, you’ll goals money. If you planneed to retire, for example, you’ll probably something beyond Social probablybenefits need something beyond Social Security to help with your living Security benefits to help with your living expenses. expenses.
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WHERE AM II HEADED? HEADED? WHERE AM Let’s with the theend endininmind. mind.You You Let’s start start with probably have some someidea ideaofofwhere where probably have you’d to be befinancially financiallyinin1010years, years, you’d like to 20 and so soon. on.What Whatsort sortofofstratstrat20 years, and egy is most most likely egy likelyto tomake makethat thathappen? happen? WHY INVEST? WHY INVEST? Since the the early Since early days daysofofstock stockand andbond bond markets, investing markets, investinghas hasbeen beenseen seenasas way to to help aa way help your yourmoney moneystay staya astep step ahead of inflation, which eats into ahead of inflation, which eats into your purchasing power. Investing is not your purchasing power. Investing is not risk-free, but it also can be risky not to risk-free, invest. but it also can be risky not to invest.
WHAT IS INVESTMENT
MANAGEMENT? WHAT IS INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT? It may help to look at investment management outcome of our It may help to lookasatthe investment management as the outcome of our conversation about a comprehensive conversation a comprehensive approach about to retirement, tax and estate approach to retirement, and estate can planning. Investmenttax management planning. Investment management cantake help you stay calm when markets help you stay calm when markets a temporary wild swing in onetake direction a temporary wild swing in one direction or another. or another. HOW CAN I PROVIDE FOR
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continue to impact the of lives of YouYou cancan continue to impact the lives others future. Through charitaothers intointo the the future. Through charitagiving planning, can designate bleble giving planning, you you can designate a favorite nonprofit to receive an equal a favorite nonprofit to receive an equal share of your estate as one of your share of your estate as one of your children, or 10% as a as tithe. Charitachildren, or 10% a tithe. Charitableble giving alsoalso can can provide certain tax tax giving provide certain advantages. advantages.
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Advisory services offered through Advisors, a division of ProEquities Inc., Registered Investment Advisors.Investment Securities offered through ProEquities Inc., a registered broker-dealer, member FINRASecurities and SIPC. Investments andProEquities other products Inc., Registered Investment Advisors. offered through Inc., a are not NCUA or otherwise federally insured, may involve loss of principal and products have registered broker-dealer, member FINRA and SIPC. Investments and other no credit union guarantee. are not NCUA or otherwise federally insured, may involve loss of principal and have no credit union guarantee. Products and services offered through Everence Trust Company and other Everence entities areand independent of and are not guaranteed endorsed by ProEquities, Products services offered through Everence or Trust Company and other Inc., Everence or its affiliates. entities are independent of and are not guaranteed or endorsed by ProEquities, Inc., or its affiliates.
Contents
MARCH 2020 | VOLUME 33 | NUMBER 11
FEATURES
DEPARTMENTS
26. Designing Family
6. The Long & Short of It
Eileen Riddle and her son, Aaron, design kitchens, baths, closets, etc., and oversee remodeling projects, while Elizabeth Riddle-Hash designs dream rooms for clients of Ethan Allen.
The Washington Nationals have Turkey Hill Choco Mint Chip ice cream to thank for winning the World Series.
36. Growing Pains
Our 9 To-Dos for the month of March.
10. Be Scene! 16. Life of a Party
Garman Builders, which outgrew its Ephrata headquarters, embraces adaptive reuse and transforms a building in Lititz into a state-of-the-art design studio that provides one-stop shopping for their clients.
The North Museum’s Cosmic Bash celebrates STEM-based education and careers with outof-this-world themes and décor.
22. Uptown & Down Michael Upton explores Zenkaikon, a threeday celebration of anime, comics, gaming and science fiction that takes over the city each March.
50.
50. Foodographer Jordan Bush learns there’s etiquette involved when visiting a coffee shop or café, whether it’s for a daily jolt of caffeine, to socialize or get some work done.
54. Gardening Journey Dr. Richard L. Bitner explains why ash trees are dying, plus provides his choices for suitable replacements.
58. Table for Two
26. 36.
Rochelle Shenk visits Mick’s All American Pub’s newest location in Willow Street.
64. Backyard Tourist Seth Dochter heads for Crystal Cave in Berks County for an underground outing with his family.
40. Special Advertising
Section
The Building Industry Association of Lancaster County will be holding its annual Spring Home Show in a new location this year – the Wyndham Lancaster Resort & Conference Center on Route 30. BIA members are ready to build, remodel, furnish or landscape your home.
ON THE COVER: Eileen and Aaron Riddle
of KbE Design & Build, and Elizabeth Riddle-Hash (seated), who is a designer with Ethan Allen, were photographed by Nick Gould in the store’s new location at The Crossings at Conestoga Creek. FYI: the blue hue behind the masthead is Pantone’s Color of the Year, Classic Blue.
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YOUR JOINTS DESERVE
ROBOTIC PRECISION.
A personalized plan based on your specific diagnosis and unique anatomy — delivered with robotic precision — is the key to a more natural-feeling joint after surgery. That’s why UPMC offers robotic-arm assisted surgery for total hip replacement, partial knee replacement, and total knee replacement. This leading-edge technology is changing the way joint replacement surgeries are performed.
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COMPILED BY KAYLEE REX
THE GUIDE TO MARCH EVENTS
B E SCE NE ! 9 TO-DOS FOR THE COMPLETE LISTING, VISIT L ANCASTERCOUNTYMAG .COM .
March 2-8
LANCASTER CITY RESTAURANT WEEK
#1
Downtown Lancaster Explore the diverse Lancaster City dining scene during this week-long celebration. Participating restaurants will offer special meal deals to patrons ranging from $10-$50. This season’s social mission partner is Power Packs Project, an organization that aims to improve the mental and physical health of children by helping their parents provide nutritious meals over weekends when school breakfast and lunch programs are unavailable to them. Information: lancastercityrestaurantweek.com.
March 14-17
#2
CELEBRATE SAINT PATRICK’S DAY IN LANCASTER COUNTY
#3
Various Locations Celebrate all-things-Irish – food, drink, music and dance – at the following locations: • Brendee’s Irish Pub: 449 W. Lemon Street, Lancaster. Information: 717-397-8646 or brendeesirishpub.com. • Annie Bailey’s Irish Public House: 28 E. King Street, Lancaster. Information: 717-393-4000 or anniebaileys.com.
March 28
PAWSABILITIES
• Molly’s Pub: 253 E. Chestnut Street, Lancaster. Information: 717-824-4535 or mollyspub.com.
Lebanon Valley Expo Center
• McCleary’s Pub: 130 W. Front Street, Marietta. Information: 717-426-2225 or mcclearyspub.com.
Bring your family and your furry friend to this fun event hosted by Susquehanna Service Dogs. Enjoy games for you and your dog, learn tips and tricks for training, visit with an array of vendors, and more. 80 Rocherty Rd., Lebanon. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Information: pawsabilities.net.
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• Tellus360: 24 E. King Street, Lancaster. Information: 717-393-1660 or tellus360.com.
L A N C A S T E R CO U N T Y | M A R C H 2 0 2 0
• Grandview Vineyard: 1489 Grandview Road, Mount Joy. Information: 717-653-4825 or grandviewwines.com.
Call for details about our Lunch & Learns
#4
She’s always been the independent type. We aim to keep her that way. We call our approach Interactive Caregiving™, which keeps our clients mentally and physically engaged while focusing on their needs. • • • •
March 6-8
BIA SPRING HOME SHOW
Home + Life + Care | ComfortKeepers.com 1396 Harrisburg Pike, Lancaster, PA 17601 Also Serving Hershey, Middletown & Harrisburg Areas!
Ta ls of Comfort Dinner
SUNDAY, MARCH 29, 2020 • 4 P.M.
Lancaster Wyndham Resort & Conference Center If a new home, small project or an ambitious renovation is in your future, check out the Building Industry Association of Lancaster County’s Spring Home Show to meet local professionals and see the latest products for all your home and landscaping needs. 2300 Lincoln Hwy. East, Lancaster. Friday, 1-8 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Information: 717-569-2674 or biaspringhomeshow.com.
717-299-4007 • 717-920-9898
Personal care Companionship & housekeeping Dementia & Alzheimer’s care Respite care • Safety solutions
Lancaster Country Club | 1466 New Holland Pike, Lancaster Our Tails of Comfort Dinner will feature a delicious dinner, silent auction, raffles, and live entertainment to support our KPETS mission of Touching Lives Y Warming Hearts. Voted # 1
To purchase tickets, please call or visit our website.
2120 Oregon Pike, 2nd Floor, Lancaster, PA 17601 • 888.68.kpets (888.685.7387) • www.kpets.org
Pre-Season
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Charleston Sling Collection CASUAL FURNITURE
#5
March 14
RUN4LUCK
Lancaster Country Day School Junior League of Lancaster is hosting their 15th annual race to benefit the organization’s mission of improving communities by supporting women and promoting voluntarism. Lace up your running shoes and don your green gear for a 4-mile run, 2-mile walk, or a Fun Run for the little ones. 725 Hamilton Road, Lancaster. 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Information: 717-392-2415 or jllancaster.org/run4luck.
USA | 1903
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Visit our Patio Showrooms
301 Rohrerstown Road • Lancaster, PA •717-397-4718 51 Gettysburg Pike • Mechanicsburg, PA • 717-766-7993
L A N C A S T E R CO U N T Y | M A R C H 2 0 2 0
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#6
March 29
PRINCESS AND SUPERHERO BALL Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square
Little ones will get to take photos, interact and play with their favorite superheroes and princesses at this magical ball. The event is geared towards 3- to 7-year-olds, but all are welcome. 25 South Queen Street, Lancaster. 9 a.m.-6:15 p.m. Information: 651-494-4566. Awarded by The Building Industry Association of Lancaster
March 29
#7
TAILS OF COMFORT DINNER Lancaster Country Club
Built for the Way You Live.
PA080088
garmanbuilders.com
Support KPETS and their committed volunteers and therapy pets at the Tails of Comfort Dinner. In addition to a delicious meal, the event will feature a silent auction, raffles and live entertainment. 1466 New Holland Pike, Lancaster. 4 p.m. Information: 888-685-7387 or kpets.org.
Help is here for addiction.
#8
Recovery can be a reality. March 21-22
1-800-662-HELP LancasterJoiningForces.org FUNDING PROVIDED BY PENN MEDICINE LANCASTER GENERAL HEALTH AND GUNTERBERG CHARITABLE FOUNDATION/CULLITON FAMILY
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47TH ANNUAL WOODCARVING AND WILDLIFE ART FESTIVAL Millersville University Fitness Center Check out over 30 exhibitors as they show off their woodcarving and wildlife art. Enjoy door prizes, a silent auction, demonstrations, carving lessons and a food truck at this two-day festival. 117 Shenks Lane, Millersville. Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Information: lancarvers.com/show-page.
March
#9
MUD SALES Various Locations
• March 6-7: Bart Township Auction & Mud Sale. Information: 717786-3348 or bart51.com. • March 13-14: Gordonville Spring Mud Sale & Auction. Information: 717-768-3869 or 43fireems.com. • March 20-21: Penryn Volunteer Fire Company Sale. Information: 717-664-2825 or penrynfire.com. • March 21: West Earl Fire Company Quilt & Consignment Auction. Information: 717-989-5986 or westearlfire.org. • March 27: Farmersville Mud Sale. Information: 717-354-5094 or farmersvillefire.com. • March 27-28: Gap Fire Company Mud Sale & Auction. Information: 610-593-2480 or gapfire.org.
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www.GrauersPaint.com L A N C A S T E R CO U N T Y | M A R C H 2 0 2 0
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in historic downtown Lititz featuring beautiful clothing, wearable art, unique accessories and expert personal service. Fashions by Planet, Alembika, Janska, Dress To Kill, Eileen Fisher, Flax... Jewelry and accessories by Fly London, Sorial, Ed Levin, Simon Sebbag, Alexis Bittar, ZZAN...
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VALANCES • DRAPERIES • SHEERS • BLINDS • SHADES • BED ENSEMBLES • PILLOWS
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pecializing in Window Treatments & Home Decor!
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Stop in or call for an appointment:
717-354-2233 Monday - Friday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
1064 East Main St. (Rt. 23) | New Holland, PA
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www.HeritageDesignInteriors.com
Quality AND Security
Fencing, decking, and railing has to look good and last long while protecting your greatest investment—the ones you love.
717.656.9596 • HomesteadOutdoorProducts.com
Distributors of:
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Life of a Party
From 2017: The Under the Sea theme featured a larger-than-life jellyfish surrounded by waves crafted from fabrics and textural curtains.
SUPPORTING STEM EDUCATION
THE NORTH MUSEUM’S Over-the-Top, Out-of-this-World COSMIC BASH If you think a fundraiser that benefits the studies of science, technology, engineering and mathematics sounds like a staid event, think again. The North Museum’s annual Cosmic Bash is one of Lancaster’s most exciting displays of creativity, thanks to a munificent wizard, his equally dedicated and creative wife and an inspired team of volunteers and staff.
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At
the corner of College and Buchanan avenues in Lancaster, a hive of activity sits behind the stately brick walls of the North Museum. A star-gazing planetarium, a full-size model of a 200-million-year-old dinosaur and a room full of live critters including snakes, tarantulas, lizards and toads are just a few of the fascinating exhibits offering close encounters with 500 million years of science and nature. “It’s a gem of a museum,” says Executive Director Andrea Rush, “and we want to share the riches of Lancaster County.” As with all nonprofit organizations, fundraising is vital to the North Museum’s survival and ability to extend its mission to educate future generations about the opportunities that
BY JILL BROWN
lie in STEM-based careers – those who will continue to value its world-class exhibits and experiences as adults. “Our community-education programs look to create a rational career exploration of STEM jobs,” says Andrea. Additionally, the programs “serve to slow the ‘brain drain’ of STEM-related talent from our community.” Such goals are important for many Lancaster County-based businesses who rely on a technology-educated workforce for their growth and success. One such STEM-centric business is ATOMIC, located in Lititz and the Rock Lititz campus. Focused on designing and producing sets and stages for live entertainment, corporate events, television productions and trade shows, the company’s diverse client list includes – most recently – Procter & Gamble, The MTV Video Music Awards and World
Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). ATOMIC’s CEO, Tom McPhillips, and his wife, Pippa, are the driving forces behind the North Museum’s signature fundraiser, Cosmic Bash, now in its fifth year. Joined by a team of community volunteers, Tom and Pippa have annually developed a fundraising event that first looks at what’s in the museum and then translates that into a workable theme. Thanks to the creativity of Tom, Pippa and ATOMIC’s designers, science and nature have never looked so glam. Using the spacious event spaces of the Spooky Nook Sports complex, Tom and his team transform the Olympic Hall’s “blank canvas” of white walls and 30foot ceilings to execute a science-themed display that Andrea describes as “aweinspiring” for the Cosmic Bash’s 400 guests. Beginning with a Night Under Northern Lights theme in 2016, Tom and Pippa have developed such themes as Amazon Rainforest, Under the Sea and a weather theme that included 150 hanging umbrellas to create a cloud-like feel, and a 25-foot moving, suspended fabric tornado. Inspired by last year’s 50th anniversary of the lunar landing, Cosmic Bash 2020 will boldly go where no Bash has gone before: to outer space. Creating Cosmic Bash Goes Galactic began months ago, with Tom and his ATOMIC design team imagining ways to interpret the established theme into a flow that incorporates all the party’s elements – the table layout of the sitdown dinner for 400, the bars, silent auction tables, stage and a breathtaking entrance. “The ATOMIC team works at finding unique ways to use the products on our shelves, while creating some unique custom ‘wow’ elements to set the stage,” Tom explains. Impactful elements, indeed. Past examples include a larger-than-life suspended jellyfish, huge rainforest leaves and a tropical tree canopy. Top to Bottom: From Tom’s handA gigantic tropical tree joined colorful fabric sketched ideas, ATOMIC “birds” and huge leaves to create an Amazon designer Brie Rogers Rainforest in 2019. develops digital 3D While Tom works on the overall large-scale elements, North Museum board member models and renderings Pippa conceptualizes and creates the dozens that provide ATOMIC’s of table centerpieces. Under the Sea featured faux coral and tropical fish. set-construction team The weather theme in 2018 included 150 with the direction to umbrellas and a dramatic 25-foot moving create construction tornado. The fabric tornado was created by ATOMIC’s set-construction team in their drawings of the custom Lititz facility.
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elements to be built in its workshop. Among the plans are a replica lunar rover module for the DJ’s booth and a “floating” model of planet Earth. When STRAY Production Services, another Rock Lititz-based company, brings in dramatic lighting, plus sound and video, the event comes to life. Andrea, who has worked in numerous major markets across the country, describes the Cosmic Bash as “the best event design I’ve ever seen. People attend just to see what Tom comes up with.” “The museum’s mission is a great fit for ATOMIC because everything that we do is about bringing together technology and art, making STEM education incredibly important to us
and our industry,” Tom observes. “The Cosmic Bash is an opportunity for us to offer our unique creative skills in a way that contributes to the success of both the event and the museum.” “The Cosmic Bash is simply synonymous with Tom McPhillips,” says Andrea. “His heart, passion and talent continue to astound and amaze us all. We could not do what we do for the children in this community without ATOMIC.” For ticket information, visit northmuseum.org/cosmic-bash.
JILL BROWN
Owner of Jill Brown Publicity, Marketing & Events, Jill Brown brings highlights of Central Pennsylvania’s social scene and special events to Lancaster County Magazine’s readers. With over 30 years of experience in marketing, media relations, fashion and event-planning, she would love to plan and execute an exceptional event for you or your business. Do you have an event that you would like to have covered by Life of a Party? Contact her at jillianbrown@live.com.
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Uptown & Down And All Around
Clint Burdick, a retired PA State Trooper, got into costume design when his son, Wyatt, wanted to build a costume for Zenkaikon that paid homage to the Holo Pilot characters from the video game, Titanfall 2.
Leah Lloyd has been fascinated by costumes since the age of 3. She earned a degree in Costume Design and began working in theater (Off-Broadway) and for private clients. She will be attending Zenkaikon for her sixth time. Here, she portrays Twi’lek of the Star Wars franchise. Photo courtesy of Deathcom.net.
ZENK AIKON For one weekend in March, Zenkaikon takes over downtown Lancaster, filling the streets with mystical manifestations, cartoon characters and video-game avatars as they overflow from the confines of the Lancaster County Convention Center. BY MICHAEL C. UPTON
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enkaikon, now in its 14th year, is an annual, three-day celebration of anime, comics, gaming and science fiction. It kicks off this year on Friday, March 20. Attracting approximately 5,000 enthusiasts annually, many of the fanatic faithful attend in full costume, a practice known as cosplay, and enjoy lectures, a makerspace, competitions, celebrity appearances and social gatherings. Many cosplayers spill out into local eateries, businesses and open spaces. Imagine the unaware market goer who might run into Thrall, a 7-foot-tall warchief of a shamanistic horde and founder of the nation of Durotar from the video game World of Warcraft.
For many cosplay enthusiasts, the matter is serious and entails countless hours of preparations. Others just do it for fun … or for their kids.
TEAM BURDICK “I have no idea what this stuff is,” says retired PA State Trooper Clint Burdick. Yet, he’s been hands-on in creating some serious costumes over the past four years. It all started when Wyatt Burdick, Clint’s son, wanted to build a costume, specifically a Holo Pilot costume from the video game Titanfall 2. What father is not going to help his then 9-year-old son create the intricate and armored costume of an elite soldier from video game outer space? “He brings me pictures and I
research the pictures. Up until this year I’ve been building them.” After completing a Holo Pilot, Link (Legend of Zelda), and a steampunk satyr, Clint deemed it was time to pass the creative torch to his son, who has designed a Zenkaikon 2020 costume based on the character The Judge from the game Far Cry New Dawn. He’s scary looking. Theatregoers may recognize some of Clint’s handiwork. In the middle of his adventures in costume design for his son, Clint learned from his daughter Maya, who is heavily involved with EPAC, that the theatre’s costume designer was sidelined by an injury. Tech week for The Wizard of Oz was approaching and the theatre was missing a key costume. “Somebody showed [EPAC] my Zenkaikon costumes for Wyatt and the costumer asked me to build the Tin Man,” says Clint, who fashioned a plan using camping mats and foam. “It’s still in good shape and the theatre rents it out, too. The high school is going to use it.” Ephrata High will present the classic tale as its spring musical, but this is not the first time Clint’s handiwork has seen the school stage. “I built Gomez’s torture chair for The Addams Family and Uncle Fester’s rocket backpack,” says Clint. “My dad was kind of a tinkerer, so I guess I just came to it naturally.”
from Fruits Basket, a Japanese manga book turned anime hit based on the life of an orphan girl. Ritsu is a minor, male character. “I created an entire kimono from scratch,” says Vel, who enjoys the cosplay sub-genre called cross-playing – a female playing a male character and vice versa. Zenkaikon is her favorite convention and she travels to the Red Rose City from Bethlehem. “I like Lancaster … a lot of the area restaurants seem to get into the event and coordinate specials and themes around anime. They get into it,” says Vel.
THE PRO “I’ve been into costumes since I was 3,” says Leah Lloyd, who discovered her passion after she watched a mummy movie in the ’70s and immediately wrapped herself in as many scarves as she could find. She got serious about the art of costuming at age 14 and went on to earn a degree in Costume Design, working for Off-Broadway productions and a “select group” of private clients ever since. “I’ve been doing cosplay since it was called costuming,” she notes.
Wyatt and Clint’s interpretation of a steampunk satyr.
A.K.A. VEL For Alyssa May, who goes by Vel in the cosplay world (where she has over 6,000 followers on Instagram and is a force on TikTok with 65.7k followers), her story is simple. Halloween costumes transformed into a cosplay habit feeding off her love of anime, which she started watching at the age of three; anime is the Japanese word for animation and the art dates back to 1917. Vel fell in love with a show called Naruto. “It’s one of those classic titles that anyone who is into anime has heard of before,” says Vel. “Once I discovered cosplay was a thing, I just hopped on board. The fascination is more about creative expression. I fell in love with being able to bring a character to life.” Vel attended her first convention in 2012 at age 14. Her favorite character is Tenten, a supporting character and weapon specialist in Naruto. Each costume she creates takes between two weeks and a month to fashion depending on the amount of sewing involved. Her most intricate costume was Ritsu Sohma
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This will be her sixth year attending geeks and fans of all types.” Leah’s costuming interest Zenkaikon, which serves as not only a now incorporates mashups and home-base convention for the Lancaster County resident but as a “low key” respite multiculturalism, like her Kimono Elsa, from bigger events. She says Zenkaikon is which adorns the Disney Princess of Arendelle with Japanese heritage and flair. more youth-oriented compared to other Mashups are just like one would expect, conventions she frequents. “like taking Mandalorian armor and “For being so genre-specific, it is creating a Disney Princess,” explains Leah. very accepting,” says Leah, who is easily She doesn’t really have favorite comfortable in whatever theme she wears to Lancaster’s premiere fandom event, be characters, except for the fact she is currently into Twi’lek characters from it Harry Potter, Star Wars or even Game the Star Wars franchise. Becoming a of Thrones. “It’s accepting of all nerds,
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Alyssa May, a.k.a. Vel in the cosplay world, is a social media favorite with more than 6,000 Instagram and nearing 66,000 TikTok followers. She traces her love of costumes to Halloween and later, anime (Japanese animation).
green- or blue-skinned planet Ryloth resident with appendages protruding from her skull allows Leah to get into body painting – look for her to be a mash-up White Lolita Twi’lek at this year’s Zenkaikon. FOR COSPLAYERS, the culminating events of Zenkaikon take place on Saturday. The Masquerade is a judged, in-character performance put on by anyone (or group) in costume, from anime to pop sci-fi. Held separately from the Masquerade, the Hall Cosplay Contest honors craftsmanship, from clean seams and straight hems to wigs and props. Winners receive mostly honor. For more information, visit zenkaikon.com or Facebook.
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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DESIGNING
Family BY SUE LONG PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICK GOULD
Creativity and artistic talent are synonymous with the Riddle family. Eileen Riddle and her son, Aaron, design kitchens, baths, pantries, closets and laundry rooms, while Eileen’s daughter, Elizabeth, is a designer for Ethan Allen. On occasion, their talents come together on a project.
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E
ileen has loved all forms of artistic expression since she was a child growing up in New Jersey. “I was always drawing or coloring,” she recalls of her childhood. “Art was my favorite subject in school.” Her love of art took Eileen to the duCret School of Art in Plainfield, New Jersey. Her foray into kitchen design resulted when she answered an ad placed by a Long Island design firm in need of an artist who could translate ideas into drawings. “Those were the days before computers,” she explains. “All the plans were done by hand on drawing boards. I still have some of them. Maybe one of these days I’ll frame one and hang it in the studio.”
What brought her to Lancaster? Grandchildren! Aaron, who is a graduate of Hofstra University, and his wife, Esther, moved here in 1998 for career opportunities. The couple became the parents of two children, a son who is now involved in the business and a daughter who is in high school and dabbles in art.
Before she and her husband, Bob, made the move, Eileen began sending her resumé to prospective employers. Fortunately, Eileen was heading to the epicenter of cabinetmaking. She ultimately accepted a position with Rutt HandCrafted Cabinetry. “I worked with Ruth Rutt,” Eileen recalls. “It was
Eileen Riddle
Eileen and Aaron Riddle designed the kitchen that welcomes visitors to the KbE Design & Build studios in Lititz. The kitchen touches on many of today’s design trends, including a multifunctional island (color is Smoke), quartz counters, a marble/tile backsplash that extends to the ceiling, a freestanding exhaust hood, and recessed-panel cabinetry (color is Dove White) that perfectly subscribes to Eileen’s “a place for everything and everything in its place” penchant for organization. The floor is 100+ years old.
fascinating to work with her. I learned so much from her.” After leaving Rutt, Eileen began working with a design firm in the King of Prussia area that was a Rutt dealer. Again, Eileen was able to expand her knowledge of the design process. Confident in her own skills – Eileen says she developed a “real passion for kitchen design,” describing it as “a perfect blend of art and technology” – she launched her own design firm. Her confidence also radiated from the fact that she loves to cook and was fully aware of the frustrations that home cooks encounter in their own kitchens. “I can’t tell you how many times clients have said how thrilled they are to be
working with someone who understands kitchen design from a user perspective,” Eileen shares. In 2009, tiring of hauling door samples and other design elements to clients’ homes, she began entertaining the idea of opening her own storefront. One day, while walking down Broad Street in Lititz, she spied a For Rent sign in a quaint, turn-ofthe-century building that features a large picture window. “It felt right,” she says of taking that leap. She opened Kitchens by Eileen with one assistant on staff. She admits that launching a business in the midst of the Great Recession tested her mettle. “I figured I had nothing to lose. If it failed, I could always go back to working from home,” she says.
Kitchens by Eileen not only survived the recession but it began to thrive. “There’s a lot of remodeling going
on in Lancaster,” she says of her success. Aaron, who has always harbored an interest in architecture and a talent for art, began working with the firm on a part-time basis soon after it opened. In 2013, he joined forces with his mother full time as the firm’s project manager. “I learned the trade side from our subcontractors and the design side from my mom,” he explains. “I really enjoy the process of seeing an idea being created and following it all the way through. That final walk through is always very rewarding.” Aaron saw the post-recession remodeling and building boom as an opportunity to expand the services offered by Kitchens by Eileen. From kitchens, the design firm expanded into baths, laundry rooms, pantries and full-scale remodeling projects. They became associated with Boyertown-
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Left: The desire for organization now extends into bedrooms, where closets are equipped with cabinetry, shelves and cubbies that keep clothing and accessories neat and easy to access. Right: Cabinets and drawers keep a double vanity clutter free. Below: Zest!’s classroom kitchen was KbE’s first commercial venture. Photos courtesy of KbE.
based Victory Closets. With 14 now on staff, Kitchens by Eileen – the name was recently altered to KbE Design & Build – is busier than ever.
Elizabeth was blazing her own
career path. After graduating from the Art Institute of York, she knew she had a job waiting for her at Kitchens by Eileen. Still, she decided it would be prudent to spread her wings and initially entertained the idea of heading for New York. When she was given the opportunity to work with the same King of Prussia design firm her mother had worked for, she took it. She was also on staff at the downtown store, Details, where she worked on visual merchandising and window displays. Her ultimate goal was to become a designer for Ethan Allen. “I kept applying and eight years ago, I got the call,” she relates. She accepted her dream job at Ethan Allen’s Lancaster store, which recently moved to The Crossings at Conestoga Creek on the Harrisburg Pike. “It was time,” Liz says of the store’s 40year tenure on the Manheim Pike, where it was impacted by flood waters on two occasions. The store had also faded into Lancaster’s subconscious. “People would stop in and say, ‘I forgot you were here,’” she notes.
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The new 7,000-square-foot store, which places an emphasis on lifestyle as opposed to retail, is state-of-theart, with touch-screen kiosks and an inviting design center. Large windows, high ceilings and a touch of industrial styling deliver a thoroughly modern look for Lancaster’s branch of the 88-yearold New England-based company that created the Early American look but now offers what its website calls “a melting pot of designs” that now define the American home. Liz is especially excited about Ethan Allen’s take on Scandinavian farmhouse that is set to debut this fall.
Over the past decade, the three have collaborated on several projects. Inevitably, clients will ask Eileen or Aaron for design advice that is out of their realm and they will suggest that the client consults Liz. The opposite also holds true. You know what happens if you redecorate one room – suddenly,
you want to remodel the kitchen, upgrade the bath … Fortunately, Liz has connections! Time, of course, marches on, and Eileen has decided to step back from the business. Aaron has assumed the role of president of the company. Eileen describes her new role as “ambassador” and explains in that capacity she will be representing KbE Design & Build in community endeavors such as becoming involved in Lititz events and service organizations. “Things I’ve never had time to do,” she says. She also wants to support her daughter, Jennifer, and her service dog, Benny, and travel with them to art shows. Jennifer is associated with Lancaster’s Friendship Heart Gallery. Benny, who is an artist in his own right, is a magnet for visitors at shows and in the studio. “If I know clients are dog lovers, I’ll bring him to the studio for our meeting with them,” Eileen says of the Black Lab’s PR skills.
A city home was updated with this sleek and modern kitchen. KbE photo.
Aaron Riddle
Kitchen Design
for a New Decade “There’s no place like home,” has come to define life in the 21st century. “Our homes are our retreats,” says Aaron Riddle.
“K
itchens are an investment,” verifies Eileen Riddle, who points to the thought process and space planning that is required of both the clients and designers to arrive at the end result – a dream kitchen. “I know we’ve done our job when a client sees the results and comments, ‘You really listened to us.’ That’s really important for us to hear,” she says. Aaron agrees that customer service is the hallmark of the company. “Attention to detail is one thing we
take pride in,” he says. Offering clients options is another – final plans always entail good, better and best selections that help them meet budgets and achieve the styling they envisioned. Fortunately, the Riddles also have the X factor on their side. Through working with local cabinetmaking companies and other subcontractors, Aaron is of the opinion that the craftsmanship Lancaster County is known for is “second to none.” Helping clients with the decision process every step of the way – including
Another remodeling project features an island with waterfall edging. KbE photo.
accompanying them to other vendors – is a third component of customer service. According to the Riddles, today’s kitchens entail much more than a place to cook. They are where kids do homework while a parent makes dinner. They are where friends catch up over a cup of coffee or a glass of wine. They are where dinner guests inevitably congregate before or after dinner. They are where milestones are celebrated. “In my opinion, the kitchen is the most important room of the house,” says Eileen.
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Warm and inviting kitchens are
on clients’ minds these days. It begins with light. Aaron reports that clients are opening up walls to make way for large windows or even a series of doorways in an effort to meld indoor and outdoor spaces. Layered lighting also helps to create a mood for day and night. While white-hued painted cabinets continue to be popular, natural wood is making a comeback. “A pop of color could be introduced by painting the island a bold color,” Aaron says. Gold pulls for drawers and cabinets add both color and richness. “Gold is huge,” says Eileen. Backsplashes that travel to the ceiling are also in vogue. Quartz has become the counter covering of choice, “especially if it resembles marble,” he adds. Both Eileen and Aaron agree that clients who lead busy lives are desirous of having well-organized and clutterfree kitchens. “I’m a firm believer in ‘a
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place for everything and everything in its place,’” says Eileen. Garage-style cabinets ensure that items such as toasters, coffeemakers, mixers, canisters etc. can be put out of sight once they are no longer needed. Stoves are surrounded by pullouts that hold herbs and cooking oils. Deep drawers allow space for oversized pots. Cabinet interiors are designed to store and easily locate cookie sheets and other baking items. Pantries provide storage for everything from food to linens, china and glassware that are used for special occasions. Technology is also being taken into consideration. The days of having offices in a kitchen have been relegated to the ‘80s. “We’re tearing them out,” Aaron says of remodeling jobs. Instead, today’s kitchen is outfitted with a message center that could have something as high-tech as a charging station for phones to something as old-school as a bulletin board. Eileen names high-tech appliances as one of
Natural wood cabinets are staging a comeback. This kitchen features a dual-purpose buffet/ beverage center and a unique tile/wood floor that, according to Eileen, required a lot thought and engineering to design and install. KbE photo.
the biggest changes she’s seen over the course of her career. Aaron also points to a new phenomenon that is impacting kitchen design – pet stations that are carved into an island, or perhaps a staircase, and are used for feeding purposes or a getaway for napping. As for bathrooms, clients are bringing home ideas from hotels and vacation homes that translate into a spa experience at home. The need to organize also extends into bedrooms. “We’ve been doing a lot of closets lately,” he says of KbE’s licensing agreement with Victory Closets.
For more information, visit kitchensbyeileen.com.
Right: The Martins’ gallery-style hallway echoes Laurie’s love of all-things French. The floor tile mimics stone, while the cabinets, mirrors and lamps have a Euro feel. The starburst lighting fixture taps into the reemergence of gold, which is being widely seen in accessories, lighting, plumbing fixtures and door/ drawer pulls. Bottom: Ethan Allen’s Design Center at its new location in The Crossings at Conestoga Creek.
Elizabeth Riddle-Hash
Dreaming
of Home
Laurie and Jim Martin had always wanted to build a custom home. They knew who the builder would be – Custom Home Group – from visiting the company’s Parade of Homes entries. Fortunately, they also made the acquaintance of Liz Riddle-Hash.
T
he couple’s dream of building a new home took an important step when they learned of a lot that was for sale in one of their favorite neighborhoods from their realtor/colleague, Dwight Brubaker. Best of all, their daughter could remain in the same school district. The stars were definitely aligning for the couple who are co-owners of the American Music Theatre. L A N C A S T E R CO U N T Y | M A R C H 2 0 2 0
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The Martins’ living room reflects the “eclectic and collected” look that adds warmth, texture and, in this case, a little glam to a room.
For the Martins, there was no looking back. Their home of 14 years sold in a matter of one day. So, Laurie forged ahead and immersed herself in designing her dream home with Jared Erb of the Custom Home Group. A French villa was Laurie’s inspiration in designing the open and airy first-floor living spaces. “I love everything French,” she says. As she would be starting from scratch, Laurie asked Jared for his recommendations in securing the help of a designer for choosing furnishings, accessories and lighting. Jared
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suggested Liz Riddle-Hash. The two met and, according to Laurie, “We really clicked.” Laurie and Liz began meeting every Monday. “It was also nice to be able to run all my selections made with the builder by Liz,” she notes. Liz loves such a working format. Working from plans enables the designer and client to zero in on selections that will complement a room’s dimensions and vice versa. Choosing paint colors and flooring early on (which also involved Olivia Barnhurst from Custom Home Group) also helped to establish a color palette
for the house. “Today’s look is eclectic and collected,” Liz explains. “There’s lots of layering going on, which adds warmth and texture to a room.” She is also noticing another trend – clients who love to travel are incorporating elements that remind them of their favorite places into their homes. “It’s part of the reason why coastal continues to be huge,” Liz says. “People like to be reminded of their favorite places. They bring a sense of calm and serenity to a home.” Of course, for Laurie, France would be her ultimate vacation destination.
Liz is finding that memories of favorite vacation destinations are also helping to transform our homes into retreats. While France provided inspiration for much of the first floor, the dining room hearkens to what Liz calls “California casual.”
For more photos, visit lancastercountymag.com.
The Martins’ home embodies all those philosophies. The gallerystyle main hallway definitely has a European vibe thanks to the stone-like tile and French-inspired furniture and accessories that define it. The living room’s eclectic decor is courtesy of a sectional sofa, Asian-inspired accent chairs, Euro-inspired accent tables and lamps, a modern fireplace and a gold-and-crystal chandelier that adds a touch of glam to the space. The floor-to-ceiling windows provide the wow factor as they are hung with linen draperies that provide
privacy yet are transparent enough to admit natural light and, if open, a view of the outdoor fireplace. Texture is achieved with a wide selection of throw pillows and fabrics such as velvet and linen. “Today’s fabrics are both beautiful and functional,” Liz shares. The kitchen reflects today’s preference for creating a beautiful, clutter-free space (thanks in part to a spacious pantry) that is perfect for cooking, socializing and entertaining. The fourth element is a dining room whose ambiance is what Liz calls “California casual” due to the
comfortable seating, farmhouse table, unique lighting fixture, retro-style buffet and cotton window shades. It offers a view of the expansive outdoorliving area and backyard that is often filled with deer at sunset. “Your surroundings definitely have an impact on how you feel,” Liz says. Laurie agrees with that sentiment, sharing that her home’s first impression on visitors is often, “This is like being on vacation!”
For more information, visit ethanallen.com.
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G N I W O GR P AINS
BY SUE LO
NG | PHO
T
GA T E SY O F O S CO U R
RMAN BU
ILDERS
It’s not unusual for families to outgrow their homes. Nor is it unusual for businesses to relocate when office space becomes inadequate. What happens when a familyowned business needs to expand? In the case of Garman Builders, the company solved the problem by embracing adaptive reuse and relocating to a new headquarters that includes a state-of-the-art design studio.
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ore than five years ago, the Garman brothers – Mike, Shawn and Jason – realized their company’s headquarters along North Reading Road in Ephrata, was not keeping pace with the growth of the multifaceted company. Founded in 1972 by their parents, Ivan and Charmaine, Garman Builders was originally located at the family’s home in Ephrata. “My dad used to meet with clients around our dining room table,” Shawn recalls. “We were not fond of those meetings,” he says. “It meant we had to be quiet and keep the television volume down low.” Still, the Garman brothers knew from the time they were
All the flooring, finishes, moldings, lighting, etc., seen in the reception area, model rooms and design studio are representative of products clients can choose for their own homes. Garman’s design studio was a recent winner – Best Showroom category – of the Building Industry Association of Lancaster County’s Pillar Awards, which recognize professional achievement. In addition, the company took top honors in the Builder of the Year and Remodeling Company of the Year categories.
The Garman brothers, left to right, Jason, Shawn and Mike.
small children that they would one day join their parents in the family business. In fact, you could say that Shawn was born to it. “My mom was helping my dad hang drywall on the night I was born,” he says of Charmaine, who wore the hats of wife, mother, PR and marketing person, bookkeeper and staging wiz for the company’s model homes and Parade of Homes entries. Shawn, who is the middle son, remembers going to job sites with his dad and brothers when he was 5 years old. “It was our job to sweep the floors and carry wood to a pile,” he recalls. He also shares that as much as it was a bonding moment for the Garman men, Shawn believes Ivan saw it
as a way to give Charmaine a break from dealing with three energetic boys. Speaking for his brothers, Shawn says becoming part of the family business was “all we ever wanted to do.” Now, a third generation has followed in their grandparents’ footsteps, as Mike’s sons, Jared and Matthew, and Shawn’s children, Brandon and Abby, have joined the staff. When the business outgrew the family garage, it moved to the site of a former auto dealership along North Reading Road, where it remained for 23 years. There, the homebuilding business expanded to include renovation and
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Clockwise from right: Model kitchens provide a starting point for clients to formulate ideas for their own kitchens. Model baths help clients envision the spa-like spaces they can design for their homes. One-stop shopping extends to flooring and tile.
For more information, visit garmanbuilders.com. restoration divisions. The company’s new-home communities were springing up all over South Central Pennsylvania. “It was time to do some major renovations or move on,” Shawn says.
The three brothers live in close proximity to each other
in the Brunnerville area. During their travels they often passed a building that sits at the corner of East Main and North Oak streets in Lititz. “I often thought it had possibilities,” Shawn says. So, he placed a call to the building’s owners, Listrak, a multi-channel marketing company, and, to his surprise, learned the building had just been put on the market. While Listrak had outgrown it, a walk-through convinced the Garmans that they had found their company’s new headquarters. “We have a thing for former car dealerships,” Shawn laughs, explaining an auto dealership once called the property home, as did a home-furnishings store and a succession of other businesses. The Garmans also had an idea beyond office space. They wanted to provide clients with a one-stop selection experience. “We live in an instant-gratification world,” Shawn observes. A design studio would allow Garman to showcase the company’s capabilities as far as moldings and finishes are concerned, plus it would enable clients to select all aspects of their home’s design and finishing touches under one roof. The
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days of going from vendor to vendor – which can be timeconsuming, sometimes frustrating and always mind-boggling – to choose the detail items that define a home’s style, would be relegated to the past. “We weren’t giving the customer a good experience,” Shawn says. “We wanted to change that. We wanted to make it an enjoyable experience.”
Three years ago, the brothers got serious about transforming the building into what Shawn calls a “customercentric” design studio. They personally visited design studios outside the area and sought input from their employees. “Everyone provided input,” he says. Once they began the design process, it became evident that even this building would not accommodate their vision, so they made plans to enlarge it with a 3,000-square-foot addition. In the meantime, an outside consultant was brought in to streamline all the ideas that had materialized. Last spring, the Garmans unveiled their new headquarters. The design studio is both beautiful and inspiring. Envision a home and a series of showrooms under one roof. The rooms of the “home” – including kitchens and baths – are stylishly trimmed with moldings and other finishes, illuminated, decorated and furnished. The concept extends outdoors, as well. The showrooms are outfitted with the wide selection of products that figure into Garman’s designs.
“We feel the things we have to of fer our customers represent where th e industry is heading.” Clockwise from left: A 3,000-squarefoot addition and upgrades to the exterior of what was originally an auto dealership provided the solution to the fact that Garman Builders had outgrown its Ephrata location. A furnished model room in the design studio. A hallway provides ideas for molding, flooring, lighting and even staircase options.
“We pride ourselves in offering our customers the most current products that are available,” Shawn says. “We feel the things we have to offer our customers represent where the industry is heading. Our trade partners have been very supportive. In fact, we are now at the size where the manufacturers are coming to us. Our work is being featured on their websites, social media and internal communiques.”
Shawn maintains that a design studio such as
Garman’s is a reflection of the changing dynamics of the region. Lancaster County, of course, has always been regarded as the epicenter of traditional styling. We have always liked our cherry kitchens, oak furniture, quilts and antiques. But, according to Shawn, “Lancaster isn’t Lancaster anymore.” He attributes the fact that Lancaster’s tastes have become more diverse to newcomers (many times from urban areas) who have been attracted to the charm of Lancaster County, the post-recession business climate, and to a new trend that is seeing parents follow their children to Lancaster in order to be close to their grandchildren. “They’ll build houses on the same street,” Shawn says. Garman’s price points are also proving to be popular with downsizers, rightsizers and that coveted demographic, the millennials. “They are starting to buy homes,” Shawn says of the latter.
Lancaster has also become more “worldly” thanks to the Internet and television shows/networks (Chip and Joanna Gaines’ Magnolia Network is set to debut this fall) that inspire ideas for the home. Living in Lancaster County also presents potential homeowners with a factor that is becoming increasingly difficult to find – craftsmanship. “Lancaster is blessed to have forward-thinking tradespeople,” Shawn says.
The selection process begins soon after clients sign
on the dotted line. A required orientation meeting is followed by an appointment with an interior designer during which customers make their selections. “They’ll spend anywhere from three to six hours with one of our designers,” Shawn explains. ‘Everything is priced a la carte, so they walk away knowing what the final cost of their home will be.” While customers are giving the design studio rave reviews, Garman is doing the same for Lititz. “We’ve been received very well,” Shawn says. “A lot of people have told us that the work we did to upgrade the building has provided Lititz with a gateway from the east. Our employees love being in Lititz. Customers love coming to Lititz. Our new concept has received nothing but positive feedback. It’s been a win-win for everyone.”
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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
WHAT IS THE BIA? It’s the Building Industry Association – Lancaster County’s respected trade association for residential builders, remodelers and related home and trade professionals. Created in 1956, the organization represents not only the interests of its members, but also those of homeowners.
A
ccording to the BIA’s executive officer, Karen Watkins, “The BIA is recognized by consumers as the premier source for reputable contractors and businesses for the home-building and remodeling industries. Our members value the advocacy efforts put forth to ensure a fair-market business environment and to influence public policy through legislation. Our foundation supports varied community efforts that have improved our parks, enhanced local housing stock and expanded neighborhood services, as well as funded almost $100,000 in scholarships to college students entering the trades.” Currently, the BIA’s membership extends to almost 400 companies. A BIA membership also includes a company’s membership to the Pennsylvania Builders Association (PBA) and the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), among other incentives. The BIA hosts a number of events throughout the year, including this year’s Spring Home Show (March 6-8), which will be held at the newly renovated Wyndham Lancaster Resort & Conference Center (formerly the Host Resort). Other events include the Parade of Homes (June 13-21) and Harvest Homes Tour (October), which will showcase remodeling projects. “Our events give us the opportunity to network and promote our member professionals to the community and to each other,” Karen shares. “We also offer events for business-to-business exposure – golf outings, networking and social events and educational classes for our professionals, in addition to our Remodelers Showcase and Pillar Awards programs.”
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Why should a consumer look to hire a BIA member versus a nonmember? Karen emphasizes that BIA members “provide the highest quality of work and have a wealth of expertise in their specialized fields. Members agree to abide by our Code of Ethics and our Contractor Quality Commitment program.” For more information about the BIA, visit LancasterBuilders.org. At MARTIN INSURANCE AGENCY, “We believe in making our community a better place. We do that by giving back to the community, supporting local businesses and nonprofit organizations, as well as helping people protect the things that matter most to them, like their families, homes and businesses. That’s why we offer full ranges of personal and business insurance to help our neighbors find the best coverage at an affordable price, making insurance accessible, understandable and affordable.” As a fourth-generation insurance agency in the Lancaster area – with experience spanning over 100 years – Martin Insurance maintains “it’s not about ‘selling’ insurance. While other agencies may emphasize the price of coverage, our agents understand your coverage needs and provide the best solutions. This is what sets us apart and makes us the best insurance agency in the area.” Established in 1953, METZLER HOME BUILDERS is a fourthgeneration business specializing in custom homes, additions and renovations. Over the span of more than six decades, they have designed and built hundreds of homes, and have completed
DESIGN | INSTALL | MAINTENANCE
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Settlements East, where Living, Luxury and Location come together! Featuring an enclave of distinctive homes custom designed for your comfort and leisure. Our collection contains Craftsman, European and Farmhouse inspiration. If your style is just a little different, we can fix that. Our in-house team is ready to make modifications so your home fits your style and your needs. Set in Manheim Township along Landis Valley Road between Oregon Pike and Butter Road. Settlements East, a community of fine homes presented by Horst & Son, Inc. Builders. www.gatewayrealtyinc.com (717) 560-5500
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MARKETING & SALES BY GATEWAY REALTY INC. 120 N. POINTE BLVD., LANCASTER, PA 17601
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
countless addition and renovation projects. They have built their reputation on crafting quality homes and additions and providing efficient project management and open communication through the life of the project and beyond. The numerous awards and recognitions Metzler has received over the years attest to their team’s dedication to their craft and to their customers. The team at Metzler Home Builders enjoys developing personal relationships with their clients throughout the construction process, with complete customer satisfaction at the heart of every custom home, addition or renovation project they undertake. Metzler takes pride in their reputation for high quality and fine craftsmanship, built through years of personal service and attention to detail. KREIDER CANVAS SERVICE, INC., has been installing awnings in Lancaster County for more than 40 years. Leslie Kreider shares that Kreider 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 dark-fabric roofs is that it’s warmer under them, especially 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.” What’s trending? According to Leslie, “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 having the ability to open up to provide a full view of the outside.” A full-service residential home builder, HORST & SON is also the developer of numerous communities past and present located in Lancaster and York counties. Founded in 1976, Horst & Son brings vast knowledge and experience to building quality homes. Their library of plans includes Craftsman, European and Farmhouse design; however, its in-house team is prepared to design the home of your dreams. Check out their latest community, Settlements East, located in Manheim Township along Landis Valley Road between Oregon Pike and Butter Road. Their office is located at 120 North Pointe Blvd. Suite 101 Lancaster, PA 17601. 717-560-9095. For over 50 years, MERVIN ZIMMERMAN, INC. has provided quality plumbing, heating and air-conditioning services to residential customers in the local area. Along with great service, they have also become a leader in custom bath remodeling with the addition of the BATH BARN showroom. The showroom has a large display of tubs, showers, vanities, toilets and more. Designers can help in creating the perfect bath. Office and Showroom Manager Bonnie Hoover shares, “Our goal when someone walks through our door is to show them the possibilities that they could have in a bath designed for their style. We guide them through all the choices, colors and designs that fit in their budget.” Two trends that Bonnie is noticing are “gold and black finishes for faucets and LED-lighted mirrors or medicine cabinets. Clean and simple lines are still trending, with gray and white colors mixed with wood grain to add a natural look and feel to a bath.”
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free!
INDIAN RUN LANDSCAPING is a family-owned company established in 1990. Randy Hunt had the simple goal of creating beautiful landscapes for clients. To achieve and maintain this goal, Randy has built a reputation for prompt and detailed work, growing the company’s customer base tremendously! Our Vision: To build a successful landscape business, with Christian values, providing an honest living for ourselves and our employees while blessing our customers with quality landscape services. Let us create something beautiful for you!
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MARTIN APPLIANCE Sales Manager Matt Burkholder shares that “in November of 2018, Martin Appliance launched a new automated electronic price-tagging system. The new tags give customers the ability to scan a QR code, which will take them straight to our website featuring that model. This new technology allows us to keep our pricing consistently competitive with national chains without a tremendous amount of time invested and wasted on paper and printing costs for paper tags.” Regarding trends, he says, “With the increasing technology of Smart Appliances that can be operated from apps, people are beginning to realize even more the value in purchasing from a dealer like ourselves that has our own professional installation team and service department to ensure that the product is installed properly and able to be maintained for years to come.” He adds, “The ease of researching online has inspired us to continue to update our website and our in-store experience to meet everyone where they are in the buying process and their buying preferences.”
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Serving Lancaster For
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today’s dream...
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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
When is the last time you really looked at your coverage? DOUPLE INSURANCE has an exciting new program that offers protection that you likely do not have now. Benefits like Guaranteed Replacement on not just personal property, but on your home as well, so you are guaranteed you’ll have the money to rebuild. Coverage for Underground Service Line and your mechanicals, as well as a host of things such as identity theft, pets, and higher values for jewelry, guns and other items are likely limited on your current policy. Douple’s agents will have a conversation with you to learn what is important to you and craft coverage to meet your individual needs. No pressure either! By reading their Google reviews, you’ll quickly see that they put your needs first and work to get you the best possible coverage at the lowest possible cost. “We will partner with you to protect your good life!” M & E ROOFING, LLC is a locally owned and operated company that has been serving Lancaster County since 1970. Owner Chad Miller explains, “We are more than just roofing; we are a fullservice exterior home-improvement company. Customer service is the backbone of our business. Honesty and integrity are what we practice each and every day in an effort to make our customer’s dream home a reality.” Whether you’re undertaking a small project or a large remodel, having an advocate to guide your supply purchases can set you up for success. For over 50 years, GR MITCHELL has been helping contractors and homeowners in the selection of hardware, lumber and building materials. And, while a focus on service validates that GR Mitchell is “here for you,” their ability to provide a value comparable or better than big-box stores surprises many. While lumber and millwork are likely their best-known offerings, a True Value hardware store headlines GR Mitchell’s Willow Street property. With a 10,000-square-foot addition (including a kitchen and bath showroom plus window and door displays) opening in November, and the recent completion of a 5,000-square-foot retail expansion, GR Mitchell is growing in ways that bring additional value to their customers. Their grand-reopening event in April will showcase those updates as they welcome the community to celebrate with their team.
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Quality Service SINCE 1973
In 1954, the late George Grove Sr. started what was later to become GEORGE J. GROVE & SON, INC. The Manheim Pike business started out in George Sr.’s home. George J. Grove Jr. entered the business at a very early age, assisting with installations. The business moved to a shop on Cabbage Hill, was incorporated in 1973, and then moved again in 1978 to its current location at 1219 Manheim Pike. In keeping with family tradition, George J. Grove III, a third generation, also entered the business. The Groves have built their business on a firm belief in a quality product and installation and in maintaining the highest levels of professionalism, integrity and fairness in their relationships with their customers. George J. Grove & Son, Inc. provides all types of home improvements. Their product lines include replacement windows and doors, roofing, insulating premium vinyl and fiber-cement siding, spouting, gutter protection systems and patio enclosures. They also carry skylights, railings, decks, retractable fabric and metal awnings, and shutters. martinwater.com
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SIGNATURE COLLECTION ESSENTIAL COLLECTION
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INTERIORS HOME is Central PA’s favorite furniture-shopping experience! Their stores in Lancaster and Camp Hill offer showrooms full of inspiration, with a wide selection of unique styles, complimentary design service, and a focus on an exceptional customer experience. In each store, you’ll find stylish home furnishings from famous brands, with prices to fit every budget, plus the Rug Bazaar, a Windows and Walls department, an Outlet, and a Design Center with endless custom options so you can truly have it your way. Also, within their stores, their Mattress 1st departments offer body mapping and the convenience of a personalized mattressshopping experience from certified mattress specialists. INTERIORS HOME is known for helping their customers make smart choices with FREE in-store or at-home design service. Their expert design staff will provide ideas and inspiration from the showroom and design center, create floor plans, and help select furniture that fits your style and budget, so you can “live your style and love your home!”
MANY POSSIBILITIES. ONE MARVIN. Marvin is driven to create better ways of living with every window and door they make. They help create homes that inspire healthier, happier lives by bringing more natural light and fresh air into homes. Like Marvin, GR Mitchell puts people at the center of everything we do. Our consultants guide you through the selection of the perfect windows and doors for your project. Our priority is your comfort and satisfaction with your purchase decisions.
14 Beaver Valley Pike, Willow Street, PA 17584 717-464-2999 GRMitchell.com
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In 1858, one individual invested his life savings of $200 to start a business grinding key stops for plumbers in Philadelphia. More than 150 continuous years of service later, that business is known as HAJOCA CORPORATION. Hajoca has a robust history of helping to shape advances in plumbing, attributing their success to two simple truths: a unique business philosophy and talented people. Today, Hajoca-Lancaster continues to serve as a leader, offering the industry's premier lines, along with many locally manufactured products. From their well-stocked sales counter to their beautiful showroom, Hajoca is represented by a knowledgeable staff that offers unmatched experience and expertise. They are proud to be part of the “buy local” philosophy. The Hajoca-Lancaster Bath & Kitchen Showroom has served Lancaster County longer than any other in the business. Discover their on-site showroom and meet the exceptional staff. Hajoca is located at 1418 Fruitville Pike. HENRY H. ROSS & SON, INC. is your one-stop headquarters for beautiful kitchen and bathroom countertops in Lancaster and beyond. H.H. Ross is a third-generation, family-owned and operated fabricator and installer of custom countertops for both residential and commercial applications. Ross fabricates high-quality materials such as quartz, granite, natural stone, solid surface and many others. Combined with their capable craftsmanship, you're assured to get a reliable, attractive countertop you'll be proud to have in your home or business. H.H. Ross is an experienced countertop fabricator you can trust. Founded in 1956 by Henry Ross, who brought extensive countertopbuilding training and considerable expertise to his own business enterprise, the company has continued to evolve over the years. They now fabricate more than 25 different surfaces to meet the demands of the modern consumer and business owner. Their friendly, knowledgeable staff will do whatever it takes to make you a satisfied customer.
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CONTACT US TO SCHEDULE A TOUR OF OUR MODEL VILLA! 2001 Harrisburg Pike, Lancaster, PA 17601 717-390-4103 | WoodcrestVilla.org
Foodogr aph e r a Proper Cup
Being thoughtful and courteous to those around you entails occupying one seat, positioning yourself near an outlet if you plan on using tech, and only ever using headphones to listen to music.
COFFEE SHOP ETIQUETTE
TEXT AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY JORDAN BUSH
Like many people who work from home or are office dwellers in desperate need of a break, I find myself frequenting coffee shops and cafés quite often, particularly during the winter months when cabin fever strikes. I find that a caffeinated kick and a change of scenery go a long way to warm the soul and boost inspiration!
W
hether it’s to catch up on work or connect with someone locally, on any given day you’ll probably find me heading for a coffee shop/café. One thing I’ve learned over the years is that frequenting a coffee shop/café entails a certain level of etiquette – you learn tricks and tips along the way that will not only improve your experience but that of your fellow coffee lovers, as well.
WORK OR PLEASURE? Coffee shops are exceptional places to casually run into folks you know and be social. For introverts, particularly those of us working mostly from home, such interactions can bring a welcomed reprieve. Living in Ephrata, Jessica and
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I might venture out on a weekend for a crepe at nearby Griddle and Grind Café. New Holland Coffee Co. is another gem, featuring a gas fireplace in a large but cozy gathering space, perfect for connecting with friends. On the flip side, if you just want to focus on being productive, I’d suggest that you frequent a coffee shop/café that’s located outside of your comfort zone/zip code. In such cases, the go-to place for me is The Baker’s Table at the Cork Factory complex in Lancaster. During the week, I can usually focus there uninterrupted for hours, plus it’s a wonderful spot for a meeting. On weekends, they offer a brunch buffet with omelets made to order, which is another draw, particularly if we have house guests and don’t want to cook.
BE WELL POSITIONED If you want to talk with others, sit in the middle of the seating area. If you want to be left alone, sit to the side. If folks have headphones on, take the hint: it’s almost a certainty they want to be left to their own devices. Mean Cup at Champion Forge is perfectly set up for this scenario – large tables populate the middle of the shop, while smaller tables are set against the walls. There’s even a quiet area furnished with a sofa and chairs. The close proximity to Franklin & Marshall College means plenty of folks are intently working and “in the zone.” Stationing yourself at the counter is an excellent option for working in a standing position. I switched to a
standing desk in my office to appease a nagging muscle injury and now look for similar ergonomics in public spaces. The Baker’s Table, Griddle and Grind Café and New Holland Coffee Co. all have counters at the perfect standing height. Getting outside is often a cure for cabin fever. Chestnut Hill Café, Square One Coffee and Griddle & Grind are three cafés with beautiful, naturally shaded patio spaces that open in the spring and often double the seating capacity.
BE MINDFUL OF YOUR FOOTPRINT Should your small group need to move a table or chairs to sit together, make sure you return them to their proper places before leaving. Don’t strew your journals, bags or power cords about. If the coffee shop/ café is small and busy, seating and space will be at a premium and simple courtesy could be the difference between another visitor finding a seat or not. Putting your stuff on another chair is also a no-no, as it will discourage others from finding a seat or even asking to share a table with you. If you are feeling under the weather, camping out in public is another no-no. Yes, a coffee shop/café might provide a cure for the doldrums of cabin fever, but it’s not a prescription for battling the flu. Nobody wants to catch what ails you!
Sea Salt and Black Pepper Fries, served with garlic aioli, chipotle dipping sauce and ketchup.
NEW HOLLAND COFFEE CO. 836 W. MAIN ST., NEW HOLLAND
CHECK YOUR TECH Be sure to charge your tech devices before leaving home in case you can’t situate yourself near a power outlet. Remember to bring power adapters, cables and headphones so you can listen to audio without disturbing those around you. To preserve the atmosphere, not all establishments offer WiFi, which makes them wonderful spots for conversations and reading but not so much for working. Step outside to make longer calls – such a gesture will reduce noise and be considerate of others around you. It’s a coffee shop, not an office. For the love of all things holy, going to a coffee shop/café to download data while streaming movies and gaming – chewing up bandwidth so the rest of us can’t even load a website – is rude. Please stop! The way any hot spot or even cell tower works is there’s a digital pipe, or bandwidth, and only so much internet can “flow” through that pipe. Streaming
Melissa Burkhart, assistant manager and head barista at New Holland Coffee Co. L A N C A S T E R CO U N T Y | M A R C H 2 0 2 0
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Shayleen Wiker, coowner of Griddle & Grind Café & Creperie in Ephrata.
content while updating your software on public WiFi is rather annoying for the rest of us. There, I said it.
BE CONSIDERATE OF BARISTAS
20 W. MAIN ST., EPHRATA
A delicate chocolate crepe is filled with mocha cream filling and sweet, tangy berry drizzle, topped with strawberries.
Fox Meadows Creamery’s apple crisp ice cream with caramel in Griddle & Grind’s crepe-bowl.
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This shouldn’t need mentioning, but placing an order while talking on the phone is exceptionally rude to the person waiting on you behind the counter. His or her job is to serve you delicious food and caffeinated drinks, not to tolerate being treated poorly. Be patient! In most cases, an order entails more than pouring a cup of coffee from a pot. There’s some finesse involved in preparing those specialty drinks. Keep in mind that in addition to counter service, they might be fulfilling orders online or over the phone and from a drive-through. If you are going to camp out for a while, buying one drink isn’t going to cut it. If space allows, a two- to threehour visit is the sweet spot for focused productivity. In such cases, I try to place at least as many orders in that timespan. My personal view: if my cup runs dry, it’s time to place another order or make room for a customer who will. If you can’t handle too much caffeine, switch to caffeine-free tea, juice or water. If you see the baristas are slammed with orders, and your cup has run empty, wait until the queue eases up before ordering a refill. If you’re camped out, there’s no need to hurry and they will appreciate your patience. With a myriad of coffee-based beverages, there’s no shame or pretense in curiosity. If you’re unsure about something you’d like to try, feel free to “ask questions about the drink,” says Melissa Bukhart, assistant manager and head barista of New Holland Coffee Co. “Every coffee shop does things a little differently, so don’t assume you know what it is.” In the event you’re dissatisfied with your drink, you may be able to request a change to be made to improve it. According to Sierra Hrubochak, co-owner of Griddle & Grind Café & Creperie, “If you don’t like a drink, tell me why specifically so I can fix it. I want to make you a drink you enjoy, but I can’t if I don’t know what’s wrong with the first one. It’s heartbreaking for me to have someone bring a drink back because I want them to enjoy it.”
TABS AND TIPS Leaving a tab open cuts down on the number of transactions, which is a time saver for everyone. An open tab allows you to skip the peer pressure of the $1, $2, $3 point of sale (POS) tip during each trip to the counter for your $3 purchase. An open tab also allows you to overcome minimum card purchase requirements. If you want to buy a colleague or friend a drink, keeping a tab open while you find a seat allows him or her to order free of peer pressure. If gift cards are available, load one up. A gift card cuts down on the number of bank-based transactions and will aid in budgeting and expense tracking. Base your tip on time. If I’m at a mom-and-pop coffee shop and buy three cups of coffee for $6-$8 total, but occupy a table for a couple of hours, I’ll tip “on time” (more) and not on the 20% rule. I’m a strong advocate for always carrying cash for roadside stands, and it might be just as helpful for coffee. If you’re planning to visit a coffee shop/ café for the first time, it’s probably a good idea to verify accepted payment methods. Some shops have cash-only policies. Two that come to mind are Café One Eight in downtown Lancaster and Higher Grounds in Mount Joy (although they will accept checks).
REWARD YOURSELF AND OTHERS Sign up for rewards. Coffee shops/ cafés might offer kickbacks based on the number of cups of joe you buy. Starbucks has a great program with a birthday treat and the occasional BOGO happy hour, not to mention free refills on certain drinks. Learn which beverages include free or inexpensive refills. Iced and cold-brew coffees are usually applicable but that’s typically not the case with nitro. Also, adding sweet cream or flavorings might cost you a few extra cents. Don’t forget that a gift card from a person’s favorite coffee shop/café is perfect for birthdays, the holidays, work achievements, saying thank you, etc. Oftentimes, they can be ordered online.
An assortment of scrumptious pastries beckon from the display case at The Baker’s Table.
Sarah Leonard, front of house manager at The Baker’s Table in Lancaster, with an Italian Cold Cut Sandwich, latte and a fruit tart.
THE BAKER'S TABLE 480 NEW HOLLAND AVE., LANCASTER
Gardening Journey THE ROOT OF THE PROBLEM
The Plight of the Native Ash Tree Photo by Joseph O’Brien
One of our most valuable native trees, the ash, is being infected and killed by an imported wood-boring bug called the emerald ash borer, Agrilus planipennis. The infestation, which has been described as a “modern-day ecological disaster,” brings to mind the so-called Dutch elm disease that wiped out another widely planted shade tree more than 50 years ago.
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BY DR. RICHARD L. BITNER
eaders have no doubt heard about the problem. The emerald ash borer attacks only ash trees. The larvae feed under the trees’ bark, eventually girdling and killing them within four years of infestation. The 1/2-inch long, metallic-green beetle, native to northeastern Asia, was first identified in Michigan in 2002. Since then, they have been wiping out ash trees over the eastern half of the United States. They first showed up in Pennsylvania in 2007 and are now fully established. The bug is certain to kill just about all of the millions of ash trees found in our forests, parks and home lawns. Evidence can be seen along the region’s highways, which are now lined with the skeletons of dead ash trees. In my few acres of woods, all the ashes are dead or in decline. I have had several dead trees come down in winter storms and have preemptively removed three that would have caused damage to outbuildings or ponds if they fell.
WHY SHOULD WE CARE ABOUT THE LOSS OF ONE NATIVE TREE SPECIES? Various species of ashes are among the most common and widespread of our Pennsylvania native forest trees. Most of them are similar in appearance, with compound leaves arranged opposite on the stems (like maples and buckeyes, although most trees have alternately arranged foliage) and deeply furrowed bark. The fall color varies but is usually impressive in gold or orangepurple. Ash has also been an excellent choice for the average landscape because it does well under a wide range of typical circumstances. In this area, one usually finds the so-called White ash, Fraxinus americana and the Green ash, Fraxinus pennsylvanica.
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White ash is considered more noble but the two are not usually distinguished by lumbermen. Still, it is one of the most valuable of our native trees from a timber standpoint. White ash is commonly 70-80 feet in height with a long and straight trunk. It thrives in almost any soil and is often planted as a street tree because of its ability to tolerate even air-polluted conditions. In ancient times, the European ash was used to make spears and shield handles. The wood is heavy and strong. The wood of our native ashes has traditionally been used for tool handles, bats, oars, paddles, furniture and interior room trim. Without Green ash, Lewis and Clark and the Voyage of Discovery would not have survived their first winter. It splits easily and has the ability to make a quick, hot fire with very little smoke and without being seasoned. For more than 100 years, Louisville Slugger, the official bat of Major League Baseball, has sourced its White ash from a relatively small area of northern Pennsylvania and New York. Now, the emerald ash borer is invading the company’s harvest site. Ash seeds provide food for many birds and small mammals, and sites for cavity nesters such as wood ducks, nuthatches, woodpeckers, owls and squirrels. The leaves provide food for 150 species of butterflies and moths.
WHERE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE EMERALD ASH BORER Gardeners who want to know how to identify the stages of the insect’s life cycle and figure out whether their ash tree has been attacked (it likely has) can go to Penn State Extension’s web
Damage caused by the emerald ash borer. Photo by R.L. Bitner.
site: https://ento.psu.edu/extension/trees-shrubs/emerald-ashborer. Penn State has a plantation of ash trees that they have been studying for many years for reasons unrelated to the current crisis. Unfortunately, nearly all the trees are now dead. Forestry scientists hope that the few remaining trees might have some degree of resistance and could be used in a breeding program. This will likely take years, if not decades. There is also a risk that the borer will begin to attack other trees. Ash trees are in the Oleaceae, the olive family. Other garden trees and shrubs in this family include the Fringetree (Chionanthus), Holly-leaf Osmanthus (Osmanthus), Lilac (Syringa), and the common hedging-shrub Privet (Ligustrum). Unfortunately, the insecticides available to combat borers are non-specific. They affect all insects including bees and other pollinators that feed on the nectar and pollen produced by ash.
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REPLACEMENT IDEAS Homeowners need to prepare for the inevitable demise of their ash trees. I’d suggest that you discuss replacements with your local fine nursery. Consider another native hardwood tree that will perform similar functions: providing shade, wildlife habitat and seasonal interest. Here are my suggestions of equally large, native deciduous trees. Unless indicated, they will tolerate a wide range of soil conditions and many are valuable to wildlife.
Make the Right Choice
Red Maple Acer rubrum Perfect for a lawn specimen tree and a great choice for the widest range of growing conditions. It even tolerates wet sites. Many cultivars have been selected specifically for outstanding red fall color. This would likely be my choice if I could have only one shade tree. Not finicky, a red maple will grow!
Sugar Maple Acer saccharum A beautiful and iconic shade tree. However, keep in mind that it insists on rich soil with adequate moisture, which means it is not a tree for stressful situations. The outstanding fall color display ranges from yellow to orange or red. It is the primary source of sap for production of maple syrup.
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River Birch Betula nigra ‘Heritage’ Fast growing and nice as a specimen or in a grove, this cultivar has the usual bright-yellow fall color of birches. In winter, the bark is a major ornamental feature, as it sheds in papery sheets with underlying colors of pink, cinnamon brown, gray and white. However, this cultivar usually grows with multiple trunks which are subject to winter damage.
American Beech Fagus grandifolia
Photo by William Jacobi
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544 NORTH PENRYN ROAD, MANHEIM, PA 17545
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This slow grower is massive and stately in maturity. It is tolerant of moist soil from sandy to clay. Definitely a country-side selection – it is not appropriate in congested urban settings because of its sensitivity to pollution. The fall color is a golden bronze. The smooth bark is attractive but the superficial root system will not endear it to a turf fanatic. Nor will the dropping beech nuts, although they are a major source of food for many mammals and birds. Cultivars with purple or copper foliage are available. Winnie-the-Pooh lives in a beech tree!
American Sycamore Platanus occidentalis This colossal tree is very adaptive to polluted urban areas and is among the fastest growing of landscape trees. it is tolerant of wet soils and short-term flooding. The fall color is not showy but in all seasons the bark is eye-catching, as it exfoliates in shades of brown, gray, green, white and cream.
Thornless honeylocust Gleditsia triacanthos f. inermis Some would say it is overplanted but that is because it is an ideal option for lawns and streets. It is tolerant of salt, wind and summer heat. The finely textured foliage provides filtered shade and displays attractive yellow fall color. Insist on a cultivar of this variety because it is without thorns and produces few seeds.
Sweetgum Liquidambar styraciflua An easily grown tree that’s tolerant of soil types and wet conditions. The fall color, at its best, is a brilliant mixture of yellows, oranges, purples and reds. However, sweetgum is not appropriate as a street tree because the gum-ball fruits are a litter problem in urban areas and a hazard to bare feet. Nevertheless, there are many cultivars of this magnificent tree
including ‘Rotundiloba’ which are fruitless.
Tuliptree Liriodendron tulipifera This large and stately tree, which is widespread throughout Lancaster County woodlands, is also an admirable fastgrowing landscape tree. It prefers a moist, well-drained area. The showy, magnolialike, orange-banded yellow flowers are usually hidden by the foliage. Expect dependable yellow fall color.
I T ’ S M O R E T H A N E Y E W E A R . I T ’ S A R T.
White oak Quercus alba White oak grows over much of eastern North America’s forests – it is an important hardwood timber tree – but makes an exceptional shade tree for a large space. It has good drought tolerance. Perhaps the slow growth rate has somewhat tempered its popularity, making it hard to find in nurseries. It displays a rich-brown fall color. The acorns are very palatable to a wide variety of wildlife. We should all be planting oaks for future generations. Others to consider include Swamp white oak (Q. bicolor), Scarlet oak (Q. coccinea), Shingle oak (Q. imbricaria), Bur oak (Q. macrocarpa), Pin oak (Q. palustris), Willow oak (Q. phellos) and Red oak (Q. rubra)
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Bald Cypress Taxodium distichum A magnificent specimen tree with a flat crown, this is one of the few trees that can grow in deep, permanent-standing water. It is tolerant of drought when established. A deciduous conifer with finely textured foliage and bronze fall color. They can live for over 2,000 years.
American linden Tilia americana A handsome large shade tree. It’s easily grown, although it will not thrive in urban pollution. In late spring, it’s notable for its showy, ball-and-paddle flowers that attract honey bees. Honey made from the nectar of these flowers is a prized gourmet item. The wood is highly desired by wood carvers. FINALLY, a word of warning: Do not plant silver maple Acer saccharinum or the wretched Bradford pear Pyrus calleryana.
Time to call Brad? When things get too taxing for you or your business, connect with Brad Rauch. He’s been voted as the #1 Accountant in Lancaster County for a reason.
Great Service Makes Cents. DR. RICHARD L. BITNER is a horticultural lecturer and photographer. He is the author of three books on conifers, most recently Designing with Conifers: The Best Choices for Year-Round Interest in Your Garden. He also teaches a conifers course at the Barnes Foundation’s Arboretum School in Merion. His website is ConifersForGardens.com.
cloistergroupcpa.com Lancaster 717.209.7130 Akron 717.859.5555
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T a b l e for T w o
MICK’S ALL AMERICAN PUB
Mick’s expansive menu covers the gamut and ranges from salads, sandwiches and burgers to pizza, wings and entrées such as ribeye, salmon and meatloaf. The beverage menu includes beer, wine and cocktails.
PUB FARE STARS AT MICK’S THREE LOCATIONS
BY ROCHELLE A. SHENK | PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICK GOULD
Mick’s All American Pub’s newest restaurant, which is located in Willow Street, opened last June in conjunction with Father’s Day. The restaurant joins locations in Lititz and Mount Joy, where owners Mick and Stephanie Owens first launched their pub-style dining concept.
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ach location has its own draw. For instance, Mick says Mount Joy tends to attract large parties thanks to its close proximity to Spooky Nook Sports and LCBC Church. The Lititz location has a natural, built-in audience thanks to movie goers at Penn Cinema. Visitors to the Willow Valley location often include families with relatives at Willow Valley Communities, guests at the adjacent DoubleTree Resort Lancaster, or members of the Penn Manor, Lampeter-Strasburg and Solanco communities stopping in after school activities or sports events. Mick credits Stephanie with the interior design for the restaurants. “All the restaurants have about the same interior space – about 5,800-square-feet – but they’re laid out a bit differently,” he says.
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“We like what we did in Mount Joy, but we knew it could be enhanced.” Thus, like Mount Joy, the Mick’s at Willow Valley location is awash in natural light and it has a great patio. The difference between the two is a larger waiting area at Willow Valley, and the bar extends to the patio area. “That allows us to serve customers on the patio more effectively. The bartenders can serve both areas,” he explains. He maintains that the Willow Valley location is a great fit for Mick’s All American. “We had decided to close our Columbia Avenue location and were looking for another spot when the pad site at the Willow Valley Crossroads complex came up. There really wasn’t a neighborhood restaurant and bar in the area. We live in the Lampeter-Strasburg School District, so
it’s great to have a restaurant where we can serve the community.” Mick’s at Willow Valley seats up to 175 in the two dining rooms (one of which can be reserved for private parties), plus 25 at the bar and 60 on the outdoor patio. Mick says the patio, which overlooks a pond, was instantly popular with guests. “People really enjoy the pond and its gazebo. There’s a walking trail around the pond, so as they’re waiting for their table, guests will take a walk around it,” he says. ALL THREE RESTAURANTS share an eclectic menu that features Mick’s popular selection of wings (always fresh, never frozen) and appetizers such as fried pickles, crab pretzels, nachos and quesadillas. Soups and a wide range of salads are also available. Burgers (certified
Angus beef ) and sandwiches (including wraps, cheesesteaks, clubs and one called the Pubwich which is served on a pretzel-bread roll) account for Mick’s topselling category of food items. Pizzas and strombolis are also on the menu, as are a limited number of entrées that range from ribeye and meatloaf to salmon and fish ‘n chips. There’s no set lunch or dinner menu – all items are available throughout the day. Menu items are made to order, and special orders can be accommodated. Daily specials are available, as well. An à la carte children’s menu offers burgers, hot dogs, PB&J and single chicken tenders. Mick reports that the menu was recently tweaked. “It’s an incremental shift. We looked at what doesn’t sell well and took them off, replacing those items with those that were top-selling ‘specials’,” he explains. New menu items include BLT, red beet deviled eggs, chicken pot pie and Buffalo chicken dip. The bar selection includes bottled and draft beer, wine by the glass or bottle and cocktails. Drink specials are offered daily. FOR SAINT PATRICK’S DAY, Mick’s will be featuring a special menu with items such as shepherd’s pie and bangers and mash. While Mick’s will not be doing anything special for March Madness, Mick notes that the TVs scattered throughout the restaurants will most likely be tuned to the college basketball tournament. Regular activities at Mick’s include trivia contests on Thursday evenings and karaoke on Saturday evenings. A new event, Music Bingo, is slated to start this month (check Facebook posts for further details). IN ADDITION to the three Mick’s locations, the couple also own a Mexican restaurant in Manheim Township’s Richmond Square, Maize Mexican Cantina, which opened in October 2018. A new menu was unveiled at that restaurant in January. Mick’s All American Pub is located at 2428 Willow Street Pike, Lancaster, 717-435-9696; 2201 Strickler Road, Manheim, 717-653-1220; and 543 Airport Road, Lititz, 717-517-8288. Hours are 11 a.m.-12 a.m., Sunday through Thursday, and 11 a.m.-1 a.m., Friday and Saturday. (Note: kitchen closes one hour before closing time.) Takeouts available. Catering for offpremise events is offered. For details, visit micksallamericanpub.com and on Facebook.
Chicken Fajitas are served with peppers and onions on a sizzling skillet. Accompaniments include soft flour tortillas, lettuce, pico de gallo, sour cream, cheese mix, rice and beans.
Mick’s newest location is at the Willow Valley Crossroads complex in Willow Street. It features two dining rooms, a bar and a spacious patio that offers a view of the pond.
Tuna Tacos entail pan-seared, rare tuna with a sesame seed crust and sriracha coleslaw wrapped in soft flour tortillas. They are garnished with scallions and cusabi dressing and served with red quinoa rice.
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DINING BLUE PACIFIC SUSHI & GRILL 1500 Oregon Pike, Lancaster. 717-393-9727. BPSushi.com. Begin your visit with a cocktail or other beverage at our lavish bar. Enjoy fine Asian-fusion cuisine in our dining room or at the sushi bar, where talented chefs will use the freshest ingredients. Blue Pacific also accommodates private parties onsite. Online ordering and take-out are available. Open for lunch MondaySaturday, and dinner daily. Open Sundays from 4-10 p.m.
CAFÉ CHOCOLATE OF LITITZ 40 East Main Street, Lititz. 717-626-0123. Chocolatelititz.com. The global-inspired menu features homemade soups, sandwiches, breakfast items and beverages using fresh, local and fair-trade ingredients. Our desserts and truffles are made with high-quality, sustainable dark chocolate. Vegan, sugar-free and gluten-free options available. Now hiring! Baristas, servers, kitchen cook. Weekdays/Weekends.
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 39 years. To add variety, they are always creating new and exciting specials. Vegetable entrées and children’s menu available. 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.
JOHN WRIGHT RESTAURANT 234 North Front Street, Wrightsville. 717-252-0416. Jwrpa.com. John Wright Restaurant is the perfect setting for an intimate date night, family celebration or just getting lost in the view. We welcome wedding ceremonies and receptions, rehearsal dinners, bridal showers, birthday parties or any other reason to celebrate. Come in and enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner or our Sunday brunch buffet!
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. Rts. 501 & 222 S. – 1/4 mile south of Rt. 30 By-pass.
A Century of EXCELLENCE TRADITION HISTORY and ...
STEAK 1147 Lititz Pike Lancaster, PA lunch: Tues-Fri 11:30am-2:30pm dinner: Tues-Sat 4pm-9:30pm
www.stockyardinn.com (717) 394-7975 Thank you for voting us #1 for Steak!
Reservations Suggested Bar Menu Available H A PPY HOUR Friday, 5-7 p.m. with complimentary hors d’oeuvres
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CARPET CLEANER CERTIFIED CARPET
Since 1949 “When it’s Certified , you’re satisfied!” ™
1855-65 Columbia Ave. • Lancaster • 717-393-3001
1855 Columbia Avenue, Wheatland Shopping Center, Lancaster. 717-394-3731 or 1-800-479-9258. Certified Carpet can make your soiled, dirty carpets and furniture look like NEW again! Year after year, Certified Carpet is voted No. 1 BEST carpet-cleaning company by the readers of Lancaster County Magazine. Locally owned and operated since 1949. “When it’s Certified, you’re satisfied!” (#PA024067)
ELECTRICAL STEPHEN M. DANIELS ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS, INC. 717-299-3135. Stephendanielselectric.com. REWIRING FOR OLDER HOMES IS OUR SPECIALTY. Specializing in updating your older home for today’s needs! We can install a single receptacle or rewire the whole building. Our goal is to install wiring without cutting holes that need to be patched and painted. Indoor and outdoor lighting, dedicated computer circuits, telephone lines, ceiling fans, heavy-duty appliances lines. (#PA008272)
FLOORING CERTIFIED CARPET 1855 Columbia Avenue, Wheatland Shopping Center, Lancaster. 717-393-3001. Certified Carpet is the complete carpet and flooring center for home and office. We feature a full line of name brand carpet, hardwood, ceramic tile and luxury vinyl tile with friendly, personalized service from a highly experienced and knowledgeable staff. “When it’s Certified, you’re satisfied!” (#PA024067)
Flooring • Cleaning • Mats www.certifiedcarpet.com
GALEBACH’S FLOOR FINISHING, INC. 202 Main Street, Landisville. 717-898-9680. Galebachsfloorfinishing.com. Galebach’s Floor Finishing, founded in 1924, is the oldest floor finishing company in Lancaster County. We specialize in residential wood floor refinishing and have extensive experience with historic restorations. Our dust containment system keeps your home as clean as possible while our workers are on-site sanding and finishing. (#PA019030)
MARTIN’S FLOORING 717-445-7799. Martinsflooring.com. With three showrooms and a flooring outlet in Fivepointville, we don’t just install floors. We back up every install with industry-leading product warranties coupled with our Lifetime Installation Warranty. We are committed to “Installing Confidence” with each and every customer. Why not experience the Martin’s difference for yourself? (#PA005901)
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HAIR & NAIL CARE ATTITUDES HAIR & NAIL SALON
ERB BROTHERS LANDSCAPING, INC.
798A New Holland Avenue, Lancaster. 717-295-0836.
960 Fruitville Pike, Lititz. 717-6267704. Erbbrothers.com.
For over 20 years, our mission is helping you LOVE your hair and nails! We specialize in trendy and traditional hair design, refreshing color, brightening highlights and perms for added style. Rejuvenate your hands and feet with relaxing manicures and pedicures. THANK YOU for trusting us to help you look and feel your best and voting us ‘Among the Best’ salons in 2019. Call us to schedule your appointment.
“Our tradition is excellence. Our passion is growing.” Since 1928, Erb Brothers continues to inspire and create landscapes throughout Central PA. We offer a full range of services to meet your landscaping needs including design/build, hardscapes, maintenance, as well as professional services. (PA#007900)
HOME CARE COMFORT KEEPERS 1396 Harrisburg Pike, Lancaster. 717-299-4007 or 717-920-9898. Comfortkeepers.com. At Comfort Keepers, we have a unique way of providing in-home care called Interactive Caregiver. It is a care philosophy focused on engaging clients physically, emotionally, socially and mentally to improve one’s quality of life. “People Helping People - Where we care for our employees as much as our clients.” Owner: Jean Engard. Also serving Hershey, Harrisburg, Middletown, Highspire, Lancaster County, Coatesville, Oxford and Parkesburg.
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LANDSCAPING
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PHYSICAL THERAPY HARTZ PHYSICAL THERAPY Locations in Lititz, Lancaster (2), Ephrata and Mount Joy. Hartzpt.com HARTZ Physical Therapy is a locallyowned independent outpatient physical therapy clinic with five convenient locations in Lancaster County. We specialize in orthopedic rehabilitation, aquatic therapy, postsurgery, sports injuries and vestibular therapy. Our unparalleled patient outcomes and average Net Promoter Score of 96 reflect our unwavering commitment to our patients.
P L U M B I N G & H VA C HALDEMAN MECHANICAL INC. Founded in 1939, Haldeman Mechanical Inc. has been providing plumbing, heating, cooling and water conditioning services to residential and light commercial customers for three generations. We are a certified Rheem ProPartner offering sales and 24-hour service as well as service agreements to keep your equipment running at peak efficiency. Free estimates are available by calling 717-665-6910 or visiting our website at haldemanmechanical.com. (PA#007777)
We Don’t Just Install…We Clean It, Too!
R E A L E S TAT E LUSK & ASSOCIATES SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY Anne Lusk represents the area’s finest properties and gives unmatched customer service for all your real estate needs from start to finish, ensuring a smooth transaction every time. Call Anne and her team at 717-291-9101, or stop by her office at 100 Foxshire Drive, Lancaster, PA 17601. Annelusk.com.
FLOORING • TILE • WINDOW TREATMENTS • AREA RUGS • CARPET CLEANING
RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL Fivepointville • Lancaster Wyomissing
MOUNTAIN REALTY, LLC 2938 Columbia Avenue, Suite 602, Lancaster. 717-390-8701. Mountainrealtyllc.com. Offering superior real estate service to anyone relocating to or moving within the garden spot of Lancaster County. The people of Mountain Realty, LLC are extremely knowledgeable about the county and would love to share their expertise. You will find them pleasant and friendly, but totally professional.
PA005901
717-445-7799 martinsflooring.com
BUSINESS SP OTLIGHT HALDEMAN MECHANICAL INC . Haldeman Mechanical Inc. is a familyowned company that has been in the mechanical contracting and repair business for three generations. In 1939, Frank L. Haldeman began repairing hand-operated well pumps and installing automatic jet pumps, as well as “modern” indoor plumbing and heating systems. In 1949, he established F.L. Haldeman & Sons Plumbing, Heating and Cooling with his sons, Lloyd, Ed and Jay, and son-in-law, John Heisey. In 1982, Mark Haldeman, Lloyd’s son, established Mark Haldeman Mechanical Service Company, which was incorporated in 1995 and became Haldeman Mechanical, Inc. In 2001, Haldeman Mechanical purchased F.L. Haldeman and Sons, Inc. and now operates from the original F.L. Haldeman and Sons location at 1148 Old Line Road in Manheim. Our services include residential and light commercial plumbing, heating, cooling and water conditioning, including equipment sales and 24/7 service. We also offer service agreements to assist in maintaining the efficiency of your equipment. Instead of charging a flat rate or diagnostic fee, we provide clients the most value for their money – we bill by the hour and offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Through three generations, Mark Haldeman and the Haldeman family have maintained their commitment to their customers. Free estimates are available by calling 717-665-6910 or visiting our website at haldemanmechanical.com. (PA#007777)
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Backyard Tourist
W
hen it comes to weather, March is an unpredictable month. Warming temperatures make me anxious to get out of the house and go hiking, but I hesitate because there’s always the chance I’ll get caught in a snowstorm unprepared. This has led us to establish an unofficial family tradition of an underground outing. While there are no show caves in Lancaster County to explore, Crystal Cave in Kutztown, Berks County, always makes for a fun day trip. THE CAVE is aptly named for the unique milky-white crystalline features found on its floor, ceiling and walls. It was initially discovered on November 12, 1871 by William Merkel and John Gehret, who were blasting for limestone. As the smoke cleared, a small entrance to the cave revealed itself. Curious, the men entered the opening but fear and complete darkness prompted them to turn back without exploring how deep the cave descended into the hillside. Early in 1872, the property was acquired by Samuel D. F. Kohler. He built a rustic wooden door to cover the entrance of the cave and protect it from vandalism and theft. Kohler also began to make preparations to open the cave
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GO C AV I N G ! PHOTOS AND TEXT BY SETH DOCHTER
as a tourist attraction and announced that a grand illumination would be held on May 25, 1872. The public got its first glimpse inside Pennsylvania’s first show cave that day. The cave became an instant hit, prompting the Kohler family to purchase a stagecoach to transport visitors between the train station and the site. They also built an inn for those who wanted to stay overnight. Since then, various owners have improved the property by adding shops, a restaurant, an ice cream parlor, a minigolf course, a gem-panning attraction and a hiking trail. OUR FIRST TRIP to Crystal Cave was in March 2017. As we pulled up, my children instantly recognized the Historic Inn from pictures they had seen. We entered the inn to purchase our tickets and I had the opportunity to speak with the owner and get a few tips on her favorite sights in the cave. She pointed us up the hill to the cave entrance where a group was already gathering for the next tour. The tour started with a brief video about the cave’s history and formation, and then we headed inside for the guided tour. Our guide was
very knowledgeable about the cave, its history and the formations. The tour, which lasted roughly 45 minutes, took us 125 feet below the surface and back again. I’ve visited a number of these types of caves and this one is definitely unique, with very interesting formations that catch the eye and seemingly dance in the light. For more information, visit CrystalCavePa.com. SETH DOCHTER is the owner of Dochter Digital Media and shares his images of Lancaster County through amishroadshow. com., as well as various social-media sites. He is also completing the certification process to become a Google Trusted Independent Photographer. In September 2014, he was named the winner of Lancaster’s first Instagram contest. Seth and his family live in East Earl.
T R A NQU I L I T Y
tran·quil·i·ty•/tran-ˈkwi-lə-tē/•noun The state of being free from agitation of mind or spirit
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QUESTIONS & ANSWERS ABOUT YOUR DENTAL HEALTH WITH DR. JOHN A. WEIERBACH
An American Dental Association (ADA) - recognized specialist in restoring and replacing teeth for a timeless display of confident beauty and a Fellow in the American College of Prosthodontics.
What is Cosmetic Dentistry? Cosmetic Dentistry procedures include teeth whitening, tooth bonding, porcelain veneers and crowns; all a means to transforming your smile, and your confidence.
What’s a Veneer? Porcelain veneers are carefully crafted sleeves that fit over your existing tooth foundation. Also called laminates, they should be meticulously shaped to match the contours and color of your original teeth for a natural looking smile.
Is there additional training a Dentist goes through to know how to do this?
specialist’s degree in Prosthodontics, he is frequently asked to teach other colleagues in successful and, at times, challenging enhancements to a patient’s smile.
What’s up with the Dogs? Dr. Weierbach enjoys the company of two English Labrador retrievers. Gracie and Mazie enjoy a loving family and several pairs of their leather shoes. Good thing they’re cute! To learn more about Cosmetic Dentistry, or a dog’s taste in chewable fashion, set up a conversation with Dr. Weierbach by contacting his office at 717.560.9190.
Dr. Weierbach studied extensively as a specialist in these procedures from leading dental experts for more than 20 years. A graduate of both University of Pennsylvania and Temple University with a
- JOHN A. WEIERBACH II, D.M.D. and Lovable Companions Gracie & Mazie
160 North Pointe Boulevard Suite 203 / Lancaster, PA 17601 717.560.9190 YourClassicSmile.com
Specialist in Cosmetic, Restorative & Implant Dentistry
