Casey Nixon | Director, Membership & Business Development
06 A DAY IN YoCo
An Itinerary for a Fun-filled Day Exploring All That York County Has to Offer
10 GENERATIONS OF ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT GUIDE COLLAGE SPECIALTY SHOP
Whitney Morgan and the history behind the shop, Collage
12 DISCOVER THE VARIETY OF YoCo!
A Listicle of York County Offerings for Every Interest
17 BLOOM BUSINESS EMPOWERMENT CENTER
Drink Local, Do Good!
18 ECONOMIC INITIATIVES
Engaging with the Codorus Creek Corridor
20 YORK COUNTY TRAIL TOWNS
Meet the New Owners Behind Wrightsville’s Half Nuts Popcorn Co.
22 EVENTS
Hanover’s Forney House Bed & Breakfast, Tea Room, and Gift Shop. ON THE COVER:
Glen Rock Mill Inn (Glen Rock), The Cake Bar (Hanover), and Jason and Lori Capello of Half Nuts Popcorn Co. (Wrightsville).
View the digital version of YoCo Connect online at Issuu.com/YoCoConnect
The opinions expressed in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.
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with Casey Nixon, Director, Membership & Business Development
What is your role with the YCEA?
I serve as the Director of Membership and Business Development for the YCEA. In this role, I oversee member relations for the more than 1,100 businesses and organizations, I secure sponsorships for YCEA and Downtown Inc events and programs, I oversee print and digital advertising sales for the YCEA and Downtown Inc publications, and secure fundraising to support the initiatives of Downtown Inc
What do you love best about the work you do? What do you find most rewarding?
Growing up in York, I wasn’t always sold on York being the place I wanted to be forever. The YCEA has allowed me to see so much of what makes York so great. From the people who pour themselves into making York a welcoming community, to the variety of industries that provide jobs to help our economy thrive, and the arts, food, and recreational activities that allow us ways to enjoy our community, York really has so much to offer.
What is an aspect or component of your job that others might find surprising?
All the investments people and businesses make to the YCEA and Downtown Inc go back into the community. Whether supporting small businesses through the BLOOM Business Empowerment Center, restoring historic buildings like The Yorktowne Hotel, or events offering businesses niche funding opportunities, our team is here to support the entire community thrive.
Q:
What do you enjoy most about what York County has to offer?
The people. There are so many people in our community who have different backgrounds and stories to tell.
A favorite go-to dining spot?
My favorite dinner spot is Moonlight Café. My family especially loves to get takeout from Moonlight Café on a Friday and have dinner on our back patio.
What is a recommended/ must-do activity for visitors?
I highly recommend walking or biking on the Heritage Rail Trail. I love that the trail takes you all the way into southern York County. There’s so much to see as you explore all the different towns the trail runs through.
Q: Q: Q:
What is a hidden gem you enjoy that you think most people might not know about?
Mural Park behind Collusion. Because it is tucked away, any time I bring new people to York City, I take them to see the Mural Park so they can enjoy all the beautiful art.
Looking for a day full of adventure? Look no further than your own backyard! From activities, outdoor recreation, dining, shopping, breweries, and more, YoCo has something for everyone! With so many unique towns to explore, the fall season is a perfect time for a staycation.
Use this mapped-out day as your inspiration to trek around the area. If you’re a visitor to the area, this will be a great starting point to discover York County!
TUCKER&CO. BAKERY CAFÉ (Dillsburg)
In the heart of downtown Dillsburg lives this small-batch, from-scratch bakery featuring gluten-free and dairy-free treats. Their menu features smoothies, coffee/espresso beverages, breakfast bites, and more!
Shopping and stocking up on snacks at (Dillsburg) 2
LOCALS’ MARKET
This market features a variety of local vendors and offers a butcher shop, convenient shopping, a sandwich shop, and quick-and-easy meals. They also offer a dine-in area to enjoy products onsite.
Take a stroll (with or without your dog) at (York) 3
JOHN RUDY PARK
Get some fresh air at this 150-acre park, featuring trails, pavilions, sports fields, dog parks, and more.
Pick-your-own produce at 4
FLINCHBAUGH’S ORCHARD & FARM MARKET
Home to an unbeatable selection of freshly picked fruits and vegetables, delectable baked goods, and local artisan foods set on 57 beautiful acres of farm ground, Flinchbaugh’s offers pick-your-own, seasonal events and festivals.
DETOUR:
Looking for some indoor fun? Visit Laser Alleys Family Fun Center (York) featuring bowling, laser tag, an arcade, and on-site food and drinks.
Lunchtime at 5
SIGN OF THE HORSE RESTAURANT AND BREWERY
Located at 16 N Main St in Red Lion, this spot offers beers on tap, as well as a menu featuring kids options, land and sea, sandwiches, pizza, and much more.
Get active at (Dallastown)
DC’S SPORTS COMPLEX
This state-of-the-art facility is your premier destination for all things sports and entertainment, offering a wide range of exciting activities, including top-notch batting cages, golf simulators, escape rooms, and other events.
Exploring downtown 7
GLEN ROCK
Nestled along the Heritage Rail Trail, discover the sights and shops of downtown Glen Rock, including Ruins Hall, Glenn Rock Mill Inn, Kindred Wellness Café, and Main Street Market
Nestled along the western banks of the Susquehanna River and known for the burning of the bridge during the Civil War in 1863, Wrightsville is a quaint town named for early pioneer John Wright and was incorporated in 1834.
DETOUR:
Have some extra time? Stroll the streets of downtown Red Lion, exploring the various shops and offerings.
Make it a staycation at 8
FORNEY HOUSE BED & BREAKFAST, TEA ROOM, AND GIFT SHOP
Check-in for your cozy stay at this bed and breakfast and freshen up before exploring downtown “Snacktown” Hanover and what it has to offer.
Dinner at (Hanover) 9
OAK’s menu is simple and seasonal American cuisine with Mediterranean influences, featuring wood-fired pizzas, hearth-grilled meat and seafood, marketdriven vegetables, and scratch-made desserts.
Stroll shops of downtown Hanover, including The Succulent Hippie, Let’s Play: Games and Hobbies, and others. DETOUR:
OAK ARTISAN COOKERY SOMETHING WICKED BREWING CO.
Post-dinner drink or Beer-to-go from (Hanover) 10
With 16 beer taps, 8 cider and specialty drink taps, along with a selection of local wines; they have an offering for everyone’s taste.
CAKE BAR
Dessert from (Hanover) 11
Chef Amanda Wiles and Chef Jeremy Schaffner have over 20 years of cake and pastry experience leading this premiere cake shop that sells cakes by the slice, cookies, and a full barista bar.
This vibrant borough nestled in Southern York County and incorporated in 1873, offers a variety of amenities to locals and visitors alike.
Generations of Entrepreneur ial Spir it Guide Collage Specialty Shop
BY C AS E Y NI XON | DIREC TOR, MEMBERSHIP & B U SINESS D E VE LOPMENT
But when the landscape of independent retail changed, Whitney’s family shifted to focus on other business ventures. At this time, Whitney left York to study Fine Art at the University of Hartford, Hartford Art School. When she moved back to the states, she chose York for its familiarity and to be near family and friends. She immediately jumped back into the family business, which at that time was a store her dad opened in Lancaster called Savemart. But Whitney aspired to own her own store.
When the opportunity arose to purchase Collage, a local retail shop who also happened to be an advertising client of hers, Whitney took the plunge into entrepreneurship.
Opening in 1983 by Janice Bortner and Jonell Hake, Collage called Downtown York home on King Street offering bedding and linens. In the mid-80s after a move to the current location Collage eventually expanded to offer gifts and clothing.
“When I bought Collage in 2009, I wanted to continue to build on what Janice had created during her 25 years as owner,” said Whitney. “But I also wanted to include my love of art and creativity, and make it a fun, eclectic, and affordable place to shop for all ages and genders.”
In November 2023, Collage celebrated its 40th Anniversary.
“One thing I’ve noticed from day one at Collage has been the community support. I knew we would sell beautiful merchandise at Collage, but every day I get to watch people choosing to come to my store and spend a lot of time and effort picking out gifts and thinking of others,” she adds. “I say I get to see the best of humanity, and to me this is the greatest gift of Collage and the York Community.”
Whitney emphasizes that her commitment to her community stems from lessons from her father who instilled in her how important it is to give back to the community that supports your business.
932 S George St, York, PA 17403 facebook.com/collageofyork |
“[Our community needs] more unity and understanding of other’s differences. No matter where you come from, how rich or poor you may be, what your gender or sexual orientation may be, or what your religion is, we are all human beings. I choose to run my business with respect for everyone and all are welcome through the doors of Collage.”
Discover the Variety of YoCo!
myriad of offerings. Embrace the variety and discover something new in our dynamic community!
THE LIVE ARTS ADMIRER
Appell Center for the Performing Arts (York)
DreamWrights Center for Community Arts (York)
York Symphony Orchestra (York)
YORK SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
Since 1933, the York Symphony Orchestra, comprised of 76 professional musicians, has provided world-class entertainment and education to audiences in the region and beyond.
THE GREEN THUMB
MILLER PLANT FARM
Offering specialty potted annuals, hanging baskets, produce, and more, this farm and garden center has been serving home gardeners and commercial farmers since 1928.
House of Flowers York (York)
Miller Plant Farm (York)
York Tree Family (York)
THE YOGI
Artemis The Art of Living (Red Lion)
1881 Salt Sanctuary (York)
Bodhi Yoga (Shrewsbury)
Fire Life Yoga & Wellness (York)
House of Yoga (York)
Kindred Wellness Café (Glen Rock)
Twisted Roots Yoga & Wellness (York)
FIRE LIFE YOGA & WELLNESS
Fire Life Yoga (FLY) was founded to provide an accessible, inclusive, and nurturing community space for practitioners to reach their fullest potential – both on and off the mat.
THE BEER LOVER
∙ Brewery Tours
Collusion Tap Works (York)
Gift Horse Brewing Company (York)
Gunpowder Falls Brewing (New Freedom)
Mudhook Brewing Company (York)
Sign of the Horse (Red Lion)
Something Wicked Brewing (Hanover)
South County Brewing Co. (York)
Vortex Brewing Company (New Freedom)
Wyndridge Farm (Dallastown)
SOUTH COUNTY BREWING CO.
With over 30,000 sqft under roof, featuring a full-service restaurant with 3 bar areas, multiple event rooms from 15 up to 120 person capacity, a distillery, and a full production brewery, their York location has an experience for everyone.
SWEET WILLOWS CREAMERY
Sweet Willows Creamery offers a variety of homemade flavors, including yogurts, sorbets, and vegan options, that are made fresh daily and using the finest ingredients.
THE OUTDOOR ENTHUSIAST
Flinchbaugh’s Orchard and Farm Market (Hellam)
Gung Ho Bikes (York)
Whistle Stop Bike Shop (New Freedom)
York County Department of Parks and Recreation
FLINCHBAUGH’S
ORCHARD AND FARM MARKET
usquehanna National Heritage Area (Wrightsville)
York County History Center (York)
er provides unique experiences through multiple oric buildings and museums, with a newly opened headquarters featuring diverse exhibits and artifacts.
The Reverie Café of York (York) Sweet Willows Creamery (York)
THE FOODIE
Burning Bridge Tavern (Wrightsville)
Central Family Restaurant (York)
Dottie’s Family Market (Dover)
Fujihana Japanese Restaurant (York)
Glen Rock Mill Inn (Glen Rock)
Hefty Lefty’s Hoagies & Grinders (York)
Isaac’s Restaurants (York)
Sweet Mama’s Mambo Sauce (York)
Victor’s Italian Restaurant (York)
White Rose Bar & Grill (York)
Bridgewater Public House (York)
GLEN ROCK MILL INN
Experience fine dining with local, farmsourced New American cuisine in this historic, 200-year-old mill turned restaurant and hotel.
THE SPORTS FAN
DC’s Sports Complex (Dallastown)
Heritage Hills Resort (York)
Out Door Country Club (York)
Royal Manchester Golf Links (Mount Wolf )
Wisehaven Tennis Center (York)
York Revolution (York)
YORK REVOLUTION
Revolution are York’s professional baseball team and a game is a good source of entertainment for all! Revs are a year-round operation with events and acilities available for parties, meetings, and more.
THE GAMER
Colony Park Lanes North & Brenn’s Pub (York)
Laser Alleys (York)
Suburban Bowlerama (York)
Vault Video Games (Hanover)
COLONY PARK LANES NORTH & BRENN’S PUB
From bowling, glow bowling, an arcade, and a menu with various food and drink options, this spot is a
For a full member directory, featuring addresses and websites, visit yceapa.org/membership
Drink Local, Do Good!
BY S UL LY
Spicy, Savory, or Sweet? These are some of the questions to ask yourself as you explore your next cocktail menu and see the Holla Vodka brand name, locally sourced in York County.
Holla Spirits, a producer of top-shelf quality vodka in 13+ flavors using mindful ingredients, has experienced a transformation since launching in 2013. The company was created by Patrick Shorb after he was diagnosed with two rare genetic diseases and is now a certified disability-owned business enterprise (DOBE) by DisabilityIN. As a growing family business, Pat enlisted the guidance of his father, Bill, to join their ownership and leadership team. Since 2019, the business has maintained and expanded its headquarters in the West Manchester area in York.
In the Fall of 2023, Holla Spirits secured a loan investment from the BLOOM Business Empowerment Center for support with payroll and a growing sales and marketing team to deploy their state and national growth model and inventory. With this investment, the company aims to create five new full-time jobs over the next two years. “Talent acquisition is a strategic imperative for Holla and the additional resources have allowed us to attract seasoned spirits industry associates from across the state,” said Pat. “It is especially gratifying to have them fully embrace the brand ethos and fun team culture in a highly competitive market.”
Most recently, Holla’s Watermelon Lollipop Vodka was used in naming PA’s cocktail of the year! Following this statewide designation, Holla announced that a donation would be made to “Uplifting Athletes,” a nonprofit that raises money to address rare diseases. Other local causes supported by Holla include “Pink Power” and the recognizable Pink Bottle, to help raise funds and awareness for those impacted by Breast Cancer.
PA Wine & Fine Spirits Stores, and retailers across the US, as well as local restaurants
Hollywood Casino York and other branded casinos
Hershey Resort VenuesThe Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup martini
“The BLOOM loan came at a very opportune time for the company as we were able to add significant resources to our Pennsylvania sales initiatives, enabling exponential revenue growth,” Pat Shorb, CEO.
To learn more about BLOOM Loans, visit BLOOMYork.org/Loans to set up a meeting!
BY DAVID GONZALEZ, JR
The foundation of any transformative project, such as the Codorus Greenway, requires true, broad community engagement and adoption. The catalytic project through the City of York is positioned to be a 1.5-mile-long linear park, that improves the access, beautification, water quality, neighborhood connectivity, wellness, and flood prevention of the waterway. Below is a quick outline of how the project is already engaging various community partners and the momentum the project has garnered this year.
Codorus Corridor Summer Enrichment Program
In its second year, organized by Crispus Attucks York students from across the City of York to immerse them in project-based learning using the vehicle of the Codorus Greenway students met over 6 weeks both in the field and in the classroom many different aspects of the project and the various discipline
Students met with architects, contractors, engineers, educators, environmentalists, historians, planners, government leaders, members of the YCEA team, and more. They learned firsthand the intricacies that go project of this scale from fundraising, planning and design, communication, economic analysis, and studies.
They also diligently researched and asked presenters detailed questions to gather critical insights on the project. All that knowledge sharing culminated in a community showcase program, where students shared their re and crafted exhibits that highlighted the findings from these yo
DIREC TOR , E CONOMIC INITI AT I VE S
Codorus Creek Clean Up
Led by Lower Susquehanna Riverkeeper Association (LSRA), in partnership with Penn State Master Watershed Stewards, Watershed Alliance of York, and YCEA a clean-up took place along the Codorus Creek in Downtown York on Saturday, July 27. The event falls in line with LSRA’s mission to improve the ecological health of the Susquehanna River watershed and the Chesapeake Bay in the interest of enhancing water quality, supporting aquatic life, and preserving waterways in the region.
Investing in the Codorus Creek
Earlier this year, the Codorus Creek Beautification Project was awarded a $15 million Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability & Equity (RAISE) grant through the U.S. Department of Transportation. The RAISE grant builds on the $26 million already secured through additional public and private sources, bringing a total of $41 million in committed funding for the Codorus Greenway
This award propels this project forward and ensures the return of the waterfront to its natural park-like environs, providing public access through the beautification of the city’s primary natural resource. The project’s Phase 1 start date is pending federal permitting approval, anticipating movement in early 2025.
To learn of future clean-up opportunities, visit lowersusquehannariverkeeper.org/ eventscalendar.
Meet the New Owners Behind Wrightsville’s Half Nuts Popcorn Co.
BY BREN DAN SA LYARDS I MAN AGER, E CONOMI C I NITI ATI V E S
In the Spring of 2024, Wrightsville’s Half Nuts Popcorn Co. relaunched with new ownership and just a few feet south of its former location on South Front Street, in Wrightsville. Gina Frey-Jones and her husband Tim sold Half-Nuts Popcorn Co. to Lori and Jason Capello at the end of 2023. Along with the brand, the popcorn, making equipment, and the recipes, the business also came with the single-story ranch-style house at 498 S. Front Street (just next door to Half Nuts Popcorn Co’s former location).
When Gina began considering plans to sell Half Nuts Popcorn, a business that she built for over 10 years, Lori and Jason leapt at the opportunity to purchase the business and keep Half Nuts Popcorn alive in Wrightsville. Gina and Tim worked to ensure a seamless transition and they introduced Lori and Jason to long-time customers and business partners in Wrightsville. “[Gina] and Tim are both just a phone call or a quick walk next door if we find ourselves with last minute and often “Half Nuts” questions (pun intended),” shared Lori.
When it came to choosing York County, and Wrightsville specifically, Lori and Jason were taken in by the town’s charms. “I fell in love with the simplicity of Wrightsville…friendly waves and honks as neighbors drive by, kiddos riding their bikes down the street with fishing poles hoping for a big catch,” said Lori. Wrightsville’s salutes to our military and veterans throughout the borough was also impactful in their decision to embrace the town. “Our family is full of service members… Jason himself is a Veteran, so we love to support our military in any way we can.”
Over the first and second quarters of 2024, Lori and Jason renovated the home at 498 S. Front Street to serve as the base of operations for the new River Rock Provisions: Home of Half Nuts Popcorn Co. The name reflects the commitment that Lori and Jason made to keep the tradition of Half Nuts Popcorn alive and their intention to expand the offerings available to customers. They continue to make all of the same flavors, using the same ingredients, recipes, and machinery. It’s clear that they’ve developed a passion for ensuring that the highest quality product is available for consumers.
EVENT S
For details, visit YCEAPA.org
SEP T EMBE R
Tuesday, September 17, 8 am – 12 pm
Why York? How to Build a Sustainable Workforce, A Forum for Employers presented by Wolfgang Confectioners
Wyndham Garden York, 2000 Loucks Rd
Wednesday, September 25, 7:30 - 8:30am
Manufacturing with a Global Impact, an Economics Club Series Event presented by Glatfelter Insurance Group
Wyndham Garden York, 2000 Loucks Rd
OC T OBE R
Tuesday, October 8, 11:30 am – 1 pm
Mental Health Awareness & Advocacy, A WBCO Luncheon Event presented by UPMC Heritage Hills Resort, Terrace Room, 2700 Mt. Rose Ave
Wednesday, October 30, 7:30 - 8:30 am
Inclusivity and Diversity in the Workforce, An Economics Club Series event presented by Glatfelter Insurance Group
Wyndham Garden York, 2000 Loucks Rd
NO V EMBE R
Tuesday, November 14, 11:30 am – 1 pm
Professional Development & Mentorship Program Overview, A WBCO Luncheon Series Event presented by UPMC Heritage Hills Resort, Terrace Room, 2700 Mt. Rose Ave
Wednesday, November 20, 7:30 - 8:30 am
For details, visit DowntownYorkPA.com
Oct. 4: First Friday presented by WellSpan Health, Downtown York, 5-9 pm
Oct. 12: Sip & Savor presented by Harley-Davidson Motor Co.York Vehicle Operations, Downtown York, 2-5pm
Nov. 1: First Friday presented by WellSpan Health, Downtown York, 5-9 pm
Nov. 6: Downtown Update presented by M&T Bank, Appell Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30-9am
Development Update, an Economics Club Series Event presented by Glatfelter Insurance Group Wyndham Garden York, 2000 Loucks Rd
DECEMBE R
Tuesday, December 10, 11:30 am – 1 pm
BLOOM Pitch Competition, a WBCO Luncheon Series Event presented by UPMC Heritage Hills Resort, Terrace Room, 2700 Mt. Rose Ave
Mark your calendars for the 2024 Changemaker Celebration on Thursday, December 12 from 4:30 - 7:00 pm at Investment Real Estate LLC at 320 N George St. This awards presentation and reception honors individuals who make things happen in our community!
