CELEBRATING LANCASTER COUNTY'S PEOPLE, SCENERY,

HERITAGE, STYLE & POINT OF VIEW SINCE 1987.

Rafe Hottenstein’s Passion for Cooking Shines at Josephine’s

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Growing up in the restaurant industry sparked Rafe Hottenstein’s passion for cooking – a passion he’s now sharing as executive chef at Josephine’s Downtown in Lancaster City. 

Lemon-pepper barramundi with forbidden rice, Indian curry butter sauce, peas and carrots. Barramundi, also known as Asian sea bass, is a white-fleshed fish that delivers a sweet, buttery flavor. It’s native to the Indo-West Pacific region.

Rafe’s parents, Ray and Sue Hottenstein, were the owners of Greenfield Restaurant & Bar (formerly The Olde Greenfield Inn) from 1981 until 2018, at which time they retired and sold the restaurant. As a teenager, Rafe learned the nuances of running a restaurant both in the kitchen and at the front of the house. Then, it was on to Penn State, where he earned a degree in hotel and restaurant management. While his father had hopes he would join the family business, Ray noted in an article that ran in this magazine in 2003 that Rafe was “too young to be worried about making decisions to come into the business. We want him to experience what’s out there.” That support prompted Rafe to explore his options by interning at Pinehurst in North Carolina and then honing his skills at The Culinary Institute of America (CIA) at Greystone in Napa Valley, California. 

A decade spent in California prompted Rafe’s interest in seafood, farm-fresh produce and wine.

Upon graduating from the CIA, he worked in restaurants in Napa Valley and San Francisco for a decade before heading back east to Lancaster. “California has great vegetables and produce, as well as seafood and wine. I really learned a lot out there,” Rafe shares. “I love cooking with fresh, high-quality ingredients, and both the Napa Valley region and Lancaster have access to those fresh-from-the farm ingredients.” 

Back Home Again 

Upon his return to Lancaster, Rafe again worked alongside his family – his parents and sister, Kristen – at Greenfield Restaurant & Bar. “There’s just something about working with family,” Rafe says, adding that his own focus at this stage of his life reflects the way he grew up, as it’s on food and family. He’s now married with a family of his own – wife Trisha and their children, 13-year-old Stella, 2-1/2-year-old Callum and 8-month-old Harper. (Ray and Sue are quick to volunteer for babysitting duty.) He also enjoys outdoor pursuits such as hunting and fishing, always preparing what he captures or catches. “I love recreational cooking. You’d think after being in the kitchen all day for work that wouldn’t be the case, but I enjoy cooking for family and friends,” Rafe says with a smile.

Cauliflower velvet with saffron-braised mussels and parsley oil.

Recently he and his son, Callum, have begun making breakfast together. Could the talent for cooking be “in the genes”? Rafe is hopeful, reporting that Callum preps his own eggs in the morning – whisking and seasoning them and getting out a pan before Rafe cooks them for him. 

Full Circle 

After the Hottensteins sold Greenfield, Rafe worked for other restaurants, including Per Diem in Lititz, before landing at Josephine’s Downtown earlier this year. In a sense his career has come full circle – he and Dean Oberholtzer, one of the partners in the Vescor Hospitality Group, which owns Josephine’s, the Belvedere Inn, C’est la Vie and 401 Prime, worked together at the Greenfield; Dean began as a server and worked his way up to manager. “The ownership team’s members are professional restauranteurs, and it’s great to work with Dean again,” Rafe says.

Several of Josephine’s specialty cocktails – Hollywood Libations – are named for stars, including the Marilyn Monroe, which entails elderflower liquor, sparkling white wine, lychee fruit and raspberry.

As for Dean, he considers Ray Hottenstein to be one of his most meaningful and supportive mentors (Dean’s flagship restaurant, the Belvedere Inn is celebrating its 25th anniversary) and says it’s an honor to have his son working with him. “It’s wonderful to have this opportunity to work with Rafe again,” Dean says. “When we worked together before, he was a kid. Now he’s a talented chef – he’s really professional and the staff enjoys working with him. He has a lot of California style, and he’s much about seafood, which is a great addition to Josephine’s.” 

Seafood & Movie Stars 

While Josephine’s has been known for its filet and jumbo lump crab cakes, Rafe’s love of seafood has led to the debut of a new menu. While those two signature items remain on the menu, it now includes more seafood items such as swordfish, rockfish, scallops and tuna tartare, among others.   

Rafe Hottenstein, who is a graduate of Penn State University and The Culinary Institute of America (Greystone), now helms the kitchen at Josephine’s Downtown. Working at Josephine’s serves as a reunion of sorts, as owner, Dean Oberholtzer, began his career at The Olde Greenfield Inn, which was owned by Rafe’s parents, Ray and Sue Hottenstein.

While the menu may have undergone some changes, Josephine’s décor will continue to encapsulate the elegance of a supper club thanks to its royal blue velvet high-backed banquette seating, sparkling chandeliers and a grand piano. The walls of the 120-seat restaurant are filled with photos of Old Hollywood celebs, including its namesake, the renowned singer-dancer-actress of the ’20s and ’30s, Josephine Baker. Specialty cocktails are named for Hollywood royalty like Marilyn Monroe, Betty White, Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis Jr. There are even two mocktails – Betty Ford and Designated Driver – on the menu. 

Rafe puts a modern spin on shrimp cocktail by pairing it with roasted garlic aioli.

Josephine’s intimate feel extends to its glass-enclosed wine room. There’s also a private dining room that can be reserved for special occasions such as birthday, engagement and anniversary parties. On Friday and Saturday evenings, dinner music is provided by pianist Mark Huber.  

Scallop Crudo “Mi-Cuit” with bagna cauda dipping sauce, shaved radishes and Meyer lemon.

Romancing the Solstice 

Josephine’s and the Belvedere recently received accolades, being named as two of the Top 100 Most Romantic Restaurants in America for 2024 (and tops in Lancaster), according to the nationwide Open Table restaurant reservation service. “We’re very proud of winning this award,” says Justin Ang, one of Vescor’s partners. “Josephine’s has a close-knit team both in the front of the house and at the back of the house; many of them have been with Josephine’s since its opening [in 2019].” Rafe concurs that winning the award is a “validation for both the front of the house and the back of the house.” 

Pan-seared rockfish is accompanied by beluga lentil tabbouleh, pickled onion, smashed cucumber and sumac vinaigrette. Native to the Pacific, rockfish is a versatile fish that has a sweet, nutty taste.

Josephine’s plans to piggyback on that accolade by adding special events to its schedule. Although Josephine’s is usually closed Sundays, it will be open from noon to 6 p.m. on May 12 for Mother’s Day. In June, Josephine’s will host a summer solstice party and wine dinner. Justin says he’s hopeful that the June celebration can be held outdoors.  

Josephine’s Downtown is located at 50 West Grant Street, Lancaster. Hours are Tuesday-Thursday, 4:30-9 p.m., and Friday and Saturday, 4:30-9:30 p.m. Closed Sunday and Monday. For more information, call 717-299-7090 or visit josephinesdowntown.com and Facebook and Instagram. Reservations are suggested and can be made by phone or online via a link on Josephine’s website or through Open Table.

A Joyful Celebration of WGAL-TV’s Milestone

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Few businesses touch the community with such depth and breadth as WGAL-TV. We wake up with Regina and Christine to hear the current traffic tangles and learn what we need to wear to brave the day’s weather. Dining alone at home? We tune in to Susan and Brian as our dinner companions. In our comfy pjs, we wind down at night as Jere and Lori wrap up the day’s events. Sharing our bedrooms, kitchens and living rooms, these people are our trusted friends.

Current and former WGAL employees gathered in Excelsior’s courtyard for a shot for the ages.

And beyond our familiar friends on the News8 set are the behind-the-scenes professionals. The producer who never leaves the live newscasts’ on-air anchors and reporters panicked about what’s next; the videographer whose edits capture the heart of the story; the engineer in master control who avoids the dreaded “dead air.” Many of the station’s 120-plus-strong team recently gathered to celebrate WGAL’s 75th anniversary and and gave a nod to the station’s past, present and future. 

Dolled-up in gowns and dazzling dresses, tuxedos and business suits, the current WGAL team and its retirees were reminded of the unique position WGAL-TV holds in the nation’s television industry. Since its inaugural sign-on from the Queen Street studio in Downtown Lancaster on March 18, 1949, WGAL has been a pioneer, true to its original Conestoga wagon logo. It was the first Pennsylvania station to go on the air outside of Philadelphia. For many years, Lancaster was the smallest city in the country to have a television station. In 1981, WGAL was first in the market to establish a second newsroom in Harrisburg to provide greater coverage for its loyal viewers. 

To WGAL’s past, present and future! Kim Lemon leads the 171 guests in a heartfelt toast.

Another vintage shot: Channel 8’s very popular Saturday afternoon Dance Party. WGAL photo.

At the celebration, the station’s president and general manager, Cindy DeLuca, proudly described what WGAL’s legacy includes. “WGAL has been the number one station in audience delivery since its existence,” she said, then continued a more personal note. “The true definition of WGAL’s legacy is in the people and their values – past, present, and future. We approach our work with a sense of service to our viewers, to our business partners and to the community at large. We don’t just respond to change; we advance change for the common good of all people. We lead with respect – for each other, for our differences, for all members of the community and the individuals whose stories we tell every day. We show trust, integrity and sincerity in how we treat each other day in and day out, always striving for excellence and having each other’s backs.”

As retired news anchor and reporter Kim Lemon invited the crowd to raise a glass to toast the milestone, she encouraged everyone to “pause and reflect on what it took for us to be in this moment: the preparation, the determination and the good luck that brought us here. The interview, the chance encounter, the audition, the work.”

It’s a Channel 8 Dance Party, 21st century-style!

Acknowledging the memories of past WGAL alumni and industry innovators – including Nelson Sears, news director Ed Wickenheiser, and on-air personality Marijane Landis – Kim toasted “to the past television pioneers, the current team members whose day-to-day commitment to something greater than ourselves, and to the future – those waiting to become part of the legacy of excellence that is WGAL.”

The evening included a multi-course dinner by Signature Catering on King.
Joe and Denise Calhoun, Brian and Kim Roche
Thomas LaRue and WGAL retiree Sheila Johnson-LaRue
The Bachelor Boys took the party up a few notches!
On the way to the dance floor ... a dessert bar!
Lucas Winter and weekend anchor McKenna Alexander
Brian Roche takes a spin around the dance floor with a vintage film camera replica.
Meredith Jorgensen, Anne Shannon, News8 photographer Ray Rosario and Kaitlin Filipelli-Rosario.
Jack Hubley, Doug Allen.
Gabriel Thomas.
Katelyn Smith, Meredith Jorgensen, producer Ronda Keiser.
Jill Brown, Millie Martin.
Mike Hostetler, Barbara Barr.
Susan Shapiro.
Joe Sanks, a 41-year News8 photographer, T.J. Springer.
Katelyn Smith, Tom Lehman.
Lori Burkholder, Jere Gish.

During the guests’ countless selfies, joy-filled reunions and flat-out funny reminiscences of days spent shooting stories out in the field, a band was warming up for an after-dinner dance party. Revelers rocked, looking nothing like WGAL’s 1960’s Dance Party, when Susquehanna Valley high school students would come to the Columbia Avenue station’s Studio A to do the twist, pony and the mashed potato, a la American Bandstand. But the past was indeed present as the original “Channel 8 Dance Party” sign hung above this night’s dance floor, bringing a bit of authentic memorabilia to the event. 

A well-deserved night of congratulations to all who work to bring WGAL into our homes. We’ll be watching!

Stroller Gang Has Taken Over Sidewalks of Lititz

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There are good ideas and there are better ideas. But the best ideas snowball, gain momentum and take on lives of their own. Ashley Mayer started the Lititz Stroller Gang as an exercise club, as a social club for moms. Not even she could’ve imagined what it has evolved into.

From roots as an active social group, the Lititz Stroller Gang has grown in numbers and scope.

 “It started as moms needing community,” says Ashley, a native and resident of Lititz. “But it’s expanded beyond whatever I thought it could be at the beginning. We are a Christian group. Our mission, in our heart, is to share something from the Word of God. Recently we’ve started doing more outreach work as well. We love to support other moms and their kids.”

The Lititz Stroller Gang now includes almost 100 members, mostly local moms and their children and their strollers. They find it easier to walk together, about 2 miles, around 40 minutes, on the west side of Lititz, once a week.

“I first envisioned the gang as an exercise group that incorporated kids with strollers,” she explains. “I love to exercise and stay fit. It’s kind of like a lifestyle. A lot of our moms would not show up to an exercise group. We want to get our steps in. That’s part of our mission as well. Being active is a really important part of our group.”

The Lititz Stroller Gang meets every Thursday from 9 to 11 a.m. at Lititz Springs Park (24 North Broad Street), weather permitting. If the weather doesn’t cooperate, sometimes “The Gang” meets at Spooky Nook Sports (75 Champ Boulevard) in Manheim.

Before and after the walks, there is typically time for socializing as well as an opportunity for the kids to run and play. “For the most part, it’s just getting kids with other kids,” Ashley notes. “My son Gabe is almost 4 and his best friends are from the stroller gang. They met there and they’re still friends. I knew he needed social interaction. Church once a week is not enough. I think we all needed a way to meet up with other moms, and the kids needed friends too.”

Ashley and Caleb Mayer are parents to sons Gabriel (left) and Judah. Ashley points to the need for interacting with others – for Gabe it was with children and for herself other moms – that led her to launch the Lititz Stroller Gang.

As the Lititz Stroller Gang has grown, more moms have joined in, friendships have been struck, a community has formed, and other stroller groups have branched off. “At the heart of our group, the mission is faith based,” Ashley says. “Not everyone who comes to our group has to be a believer. But I really think that’s what’s keeping us going. We want to be there for you on Thursdays. It’s community building.”

Mayer started the Lititz Stroller Gang in May of 2021 at a time when people were beginning to emerge from the grips of the pandemic. She was just looking for a bit of companionship.

“I needed some mom friends. At the start, it was mostly people I didn’t know,” Ashley recalls. “The name of our group fits us so well. We literally look like a gang of moms when we’re out there. We push our strollers and it’s like a parade. Some days there are 40 strollers and 60 kids lined up. The stroller is our symbol.”

For additional information about the Lititz Stroller Gang, visit lititzstrollergang.wixsite.com/info. 

Jeff Falk writes for the community newspapers – Merchandiser, Advertiser and Pennysaver – that are published by Engle Printing & Publishing. Townlively.com. 

1,000 Miles of Theatre

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“And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament;” – Daniel 12:3 (King James Version)

It is the end of a multi-month run of a show at Sight & Sound Theatres. The “install and logistics team” loads a convoy of tractor-trailers to make a 1,000-mile trek to Branson, Missouri, where the show will live on at the theatre’s second location. More than 60 truckloads of sets, equipment and costumes will make their way from Lancaster to a new home in the Ozarks over the next six months. 

Last summer I got a chance to meet some of the folks in Branson and tour the theatre. “It’s the same story, just 1,000 miles away,” says Kortney Neal, the marketing and customer relations manager at the Branson Sight & Sound Theatre. She leads me onto the stage of Queen Esther, which met with rave reviews when it ran in Lancaster in 2020 and 2021. The theatre is an immersive experience with a wrap-around effect as the actors’ space flanks out stage right and left. In center stage stands a massive palace alongside other multi-floored buildings. “Similar to the Lancaster theatre, we seat just over 2,000 people. The experience is going to be the same,” adds Kortney.

No it’s not déjà vu … the Sight & Sound theatres in Lancaster and Branson are nearly identical, which allows them to seamlessly share scenery and set pieces for shows such as Queen Esther and Daniel.

We are joined by Branson’s technical director, Luke Bates, who adds some specialized expertise to the tour. After a successful 2023, Queen Esther reopened on March 9 and will run through October 5 in Branson. “The shows are constructed in a certain way that they can move between the two theatres rather flawlessly,” explains Luke. “Technically, the contour is slightly different, but what worked in Lancaster will work on our stage. The building was designed so we could essentially cut and paste a show from one stage to another. We don’t have to completely reconstruct a set each time.” 

Queen Esther

“The size and scale of this production is pretty impressive,” notes Kortney. At 11,000 square feet, the palace is the largest set piece of any Sight & Sound production. Luke points to a connecting set piece running the length of the stage that weighs in at 120,000 pounds, the heaviest set piece in the history of Sight & Sound productions. The piece moves on a track system laid into the stage. Queen Esther pushes the limits of both stages. Every inch of the space is used by actors, animals and buildings.

The mechanical elephant seen in Queen Esther – one of the few manmade animals used in Sight & Sound shows – is lifelike to the touch.

“When the show opens, you don’t see any of this,” says Luke, who gestures toward the palace and array of other buildings. “When it comes into view you get that ‘ahh’ moment from the crowd.” The stage floor has a wide elevator, which allows cast and animals to appear between scenes as the story unfolds. Kortney credits the tech team for their creative ability to use sound, light, and, frankly, any means necessary, to create a stunning display of theatre.

Why Branson?

“When we set out to open a new location, we looked all over the country,” explains Katie Miller, Sight & Sound’s director of marketing and communications. “Branson quickly rose to the top. It felt like our ‘home away from home,’ and it still does. And it has been an honor to be a part of the Branson community.”

Just as in Lancaster, the lion and the lamb welcome guests to the Branson theatre.

Branson, Missouri, is big-show territory and the epicenter of entertainment in the Ozarks. A staggering 10 million people visit the city (population, 13,000) annually. What Branson lacks in population it makes up for in hospitality and top-notch entertainment. Branson is home to Dolly Parton’s Stampede, The Terry Bradshaw Show (yes, that Terry Bradshaw), Russian comedian, Yakov Smirnoff, and countless tribute acts – from ABBA to Elvis. Attractions include the Hollywood Wax Museum, WonderWorks and the Titanic Museum – and that is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to things to do in Branson. A grand Sight & Sound theatre was a natural fit.

Sight & Sound employs approximately 800 people, with 250 of those working in Branson. “We travel up to Lancaster to partner with the crew and staff, and they often come here to support us,” says Kortney.

The Process

It takes up to four years to produce a brand-new show. To start, a group gathers to craft the biblical story. Everything takes place internally, from scriptwriting to choreography, to costume, lighting and set design. “What surprises people the most about Sight & Sound is that we have a team of 150 people creating, writing, choreographing our shows here in-house. That does not really happen in theatre. We like to call it our ‘secret sauce.’ It is powerful to have all these people, like the costume, lighting and set designers, rubbing elbows every day and working towards the same goal. It brings a unique synergy to what we do,” says Katie.

Sight & Sound is known for incorporating live animals into their productions. Trainers and handlers are on staff. Check out an informational video at sight-sound.tv.

Daniel

From watching the show on opening night (March 13), I could not tell which set pieces in Daniel were fabricated in Branson. But I know from talking with Luke that a dozen were, and those pieces will someday make their way back to Branson with the rest of the set after Daniel closes in Lancaster on December 31.

The show opens with a giant, wow-inspiring statue floating in from the back of the theatre as King Nebuchadnezzar has a worrying dream. The set transforms from the Palace of Babylon, adorned with massive pillars topped with winged lions and richly colored, “jewel-tone blue” walls, to multiple locations throughout the story. Most of the huge building pieces revolve to change the setting, while state-of-the-art CGI adds an element of reality seen only in the most elaborate productions. 

Kortney was in Lancaster for opening night. She was not the only one from Branson. There may be two Sight & Sound locations, but there is one team. “For the opening of Daniel, a whole bunch of our Branson team arrived in Lancaster. I walked into the theatre two days before opening night and one of the sales team members from Branson was vacuuming the lobby. It’s all hands on deck,” says Katie, with a smile in her voice. “We are one big team across the miles working together for one purpose, and that is to bring messages of hope and inspiration to our guests. We are each other’s biggest fans and biggest cheerleaders.”

PRO TIP: If you visit Branson, check in with Explore Branson (explorebranson.com), the official visitors bureau, to avoid any kind of timeshare pitches or inflated ticket prices. For tickets/information about Queen Esther, visit sight-sound.com/shows/branson/queen-esther/2024. For tickets/information about Daniel, visit sight-sound.com/shows/lancaster/daniel/2024.

May: So Much To Do!

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It’s that glorious time of the year! The weather is perfect, gardens are in bloom with spring flowers, rhubarb and strawberries are in season, the school year is in its final stretch and Memorial Day is just around the corner. If that’s not enough to keep you busy, events fill the calendar. 

In Gee Chun waves to the crowd at the trophy ceremony during the final round of the 2015 U.S. Women’s Open at Lancaster Country Club in Lancaster, Penn. on Sunday, July 12, 2015. (Copyright USGA/John Mummert)

The U.S. Women’s Open is Returning to Lancaster! 

May 28-June 2
Lancaster Country Club 

Golf fans, the ladies are making a return trip to Lancaster, and the timing couldn’t be more apropos: the Lancaster Country Club (LCC), the site of this year’s U.S. Women’s Open, is kicking off its 125th anniversary (founded April 6, 1900) and unveiling the completion of its ambitious “A Defining Moment” project that resulted in a comprehensive upgrade of the club’s facilities and amenities. 

The tournament was held in Lancaster for the first time in 2015 and set an attendance record thanks to the 134,016 golf fans who followed the action at Lancaster Country Club. That record stood until last year, when Pebble Beach hosted the tournament for the first time (and set television viewership records, as well). With the tournament’s return to LCC, Lancaster, of course, is aiming to reclaim and set some records of its own. 

Thanks to the hospitality shown on the part of the club and the community during the 2015 event (1,500 volunteers will again be assisting during the tournament), LCC gained an honorary member in the tournament’s winner, In Gee Chun. As a result, Chun partnered with the club to create the In Gee Chun LCC Educational Foundation, which awards scholarships to local students who work or have a parent who works at the club. Chun also promotes the value of education in her native South Korea. No doubt Chun views 2015 as a lucky number, as she won two other majors that year and followed up her successes by representing South Korea at the 2016 Olympic Games. 

Another fan favorite, Michele Wie West (now retired), also has ties to Lancaster. Now a jewelry designer, she created the famous Taylor Swift/Travis Kelce friendship bracelet with Wove, a city jeweler. Another collaborative effort with Wove resulted in a bracelet that benefits the recovery efforts on the fire-ravaged island of Maui.     

The U.S. Women’s Open is the premier championship in women’s golf. First played in 1946, the tournament has been conducted by the United States Golf Association (USGA) since 1953. It is the second major of the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) season and has the highest purse in women’s golf, which is now a record-setting $12 million thanks to its partnership with Ally Financial. In addition to Chun and West, notable past champions include Minjee Lee, Inbee Park, Annika Sörenstam, Patty Sheehan and Betsy King. Last year’s winner was Hawaii’s Allisen Corpuz. 

As for tickets, daily Gallery access ranges in price from $25 to $395+ and includes comp parking and shuttle service, grounds and concessions access and grandstand seating at various holes. (The higher-priced tickets provide upgraded amenities.) Packages that provide tickets for the entire event begin at $150. There is also a Flex Pass that provides access during five days of your choosing. Finally, there is the Penn Club package ($2,000) that provides total access as well as upgraded amenities. Information: USwomensopen.com. 

Gardens of Oz

Ongoing
Manheim Township 

Dr. Dennis Denenberg welcomes groups to visit and tour his imaginative gardens and home and, in the process, support breast cancer awareness and research. Two decades of planning and work have transformed what was once an expanse of lawn into a gardenscape that blooms from early spring (6,000+ daffodils) to fall in an ever-changing palette of plants and colors. He is proud of the fact that nary a blade of grass grows on the property. The garden also serves another purpose: through the tours, he raises funds for a cause that is near and dear to his heart: Diana’s Dreamers: Determined to Defeat Breast Cancer, which honors his sister, who succumbed to the disease. Information: gardensofoz.com. 

We Love Our Pets 

Opens May 3
Mulberry Art Studios 

In celebration of National Pet Month, Mulberry Art Studios will exhibit art that honors the animals that bring so much joy to our lives. The 6th annual show will feature artwork from local artists (of all ages) in a variety of mediums. The show opens with a First Friday Reception on May 3 from 5-9 p.m. The public is invited to view the art and meet the artists. In addition, several local pet-related vendors will be onsite. Rescue dogs from The Sebastian Foundation for Animal Rescue will also be at the event. The event is free to visit, but donations to The Sebastian Foundation are encouraged. The exhibit will be available for viewing throughout the month of May by appointment only. 21 N. Mulberry St., Lancaster. Information: Facebook.com/mulberryartstudios.

Plant Sale 

May 4 & 5
Lancaster County Art Association 

Just in time for planting season, the sale will feature a selection of perennials, annuals, shrubs and garden art. In addition, the exhibit, Springtime in the Garden, will showcase members’ work in the Kauffman Gallery, while Jeff McCredie’s work will be displayed in the Steinmetz Gallery. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. 149 Precision Ave., Strasburg. Information: lcaaonline.org. 

Bark for Life 

May 4
New Life Fellowship Church

Bark For Life honors the lifelong contributions of our canine caregivers, celebrates human and canine cancer survivors and works to end cancer through research, education, advocacy, and patient services. Canine attendees can participate in games, contests and a Strut Your Mutt costume parade. Rescue organizations, adoptable dogs, vendors and food trucks will be on hand. Demonstrations will be held and a live auction will get underway at 1 p.m. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 420 E. Fulton St., Ephrata. Information: relayforlife.org/barklancasterpa.

Spring Artwalk 

May 4 & 5
Downtown Lancaster

Downtown Lancaster’s galleries and other art venues will be hosting special exhibits, meet-the-artist events, children’s activities and live demonstrations throughout the weekend. Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday, 12-4 p.m. Information: lancastercityart.com.

Heart of Greystone Bingo Event 

May 9
Farm & Home Center 

Greystone Manor Therapeutic Riding Center, which enhances the lives of individuals with special needs, as well as at-risk populations, is holding its first-ever bingo fundraising event.   

Attendees can play 20 games of winners choice bingo, participate in a 50/50 raffle, enjoy food and drink and more. Doors open at 4 p.m., the games get underway at 6 p.m. 1383 Arcadia Rd., Lancaster. Information: greystonemanortrc.org. 

Feast of the Senses 

May 9
Excelsior 

The Touchstone Foundation, which focuses on mental health wellness for youth and families, is hosting a unique and interactive dining event through which patrons will connect with the five senses – see, feel, hear, smell and taste – through food and beverage pairings, all while learning about the mission of the foundation’s programs. Silent and live auctions will also be held. 5:30 p.m. Ticket Information: touchstonefound.org. 

Herb & Garden Faire 

May 10 & 11
Landis Valley Village & Museum

The Herb & Garden Faire, now in its 36th year, will feature plants from the museum’s Heirloom Seed Project, vendors offering natives and other hard-to-find varieties, herbal skin care products, garden art, jewelry and more. Food and drink will be available onsite. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., rain/shine. 2451 Kissel Hill Rd., Lancaster. Information: Landisvalleymuseum.org.

Make-A-Wish Mother’s Day Truck Convoy 

May 12
Manheim Pennsylvania Auto Auction

Celebrating its 35th anniversary this year, the beloved event draws hundreds of big-rig trucks and thousands of spectators, both at the family carnival and along the convoy route. The free family carnival (9 a.m.-3 p.m.) features games, entertainment and local food trucks. The official start of the convoy is 1:30 p.m. The event celebrates current and former wish kids, while raising money to grant more wishes to children with critical illnesses. Funds raised grant 75% of wishes in the Susquehanna Valley. 1190 Lancaster Rd., Manheim. Information: wishconvoy.org.

Gyrofest 

May 18
Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church

Enjoy authentic Greek food and pastries at this spring festival. The menu features gyros, a platter (a gyro, two pieces of spanakopita and a Greek salad), Greek pastries and desserts. Preorder online and pick up your order in the drive-through lanes from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. A third of proceeds will be donated to various philanthropic organizations that benefit the Lancaster community. 64 Hershey Ave., Lancaster. Information: annunciationorthodox.org.

Heart of Lancaster Arts & Craft Show

May 18
Root’s Country Market & Auction

The spring edition of one of Lancaster’s favorite shows will welcome a selection of artists, craftspeople and vendors from Pennsylvania and the Mid-Atlantic. 10 a.m.-4 p.m., rain/shine. 705 Greystone Rd., Manheim. Information: hlcshow.com.  

Baron Brew Fest 

May 18
Manheim 

Back for its second year, this event offers something for every palate – beer, wine, mead, cider, spirits and more. Dozens of breweries, wineries and distilleries will be represented. Products can be purchased to go. Food trucks will be participating, as well. Live music will be provided. Tickets required. Must be 21+ to attend, ID required. 3-6 p.m., rain/shine. Market Square. Information: lovemanheim.com/brewfest.

Memorial Day Flea Market 

May 27
Amos Herr Park

On Memorial Day, Landisville is the place to be if you love flea markets and garage sales. Featuring over 100 vendors, the flea market offers everything from antiques and collectibles to handmade crafts, vintage clothing and more. Food trucks will also be onsite. Organized by Hempfield recCenter and the Hempfield Women’s Club, proceeds from this event are used to fund the rec’s “Everyone Belongs” financial-assistance program, as well as other community endeavors. The flea market is free to attend. In addition, residents throughout Landisville hold garage sales that day. 7 a.m.-2 p.m. 1700 Nissley Rd., Landisville. Information: hempfieldrec.com.

Jazz on the Patio 

May 30 and Thursdays Through August 8
The Barn at Paradise Station 

Lancaster’s newest events venue will be hosting jazz musicians on Thursday evenings throughout early August (note: no event on July 4). The barn’s patio will be the setting, allowing you to take in views of the farm fields and countryside. Small plates, beer and wine available. Doors open at 6 p.m., music begins at 6:30 p.m., rain/shine. 312 Paradise Lane, Ronks. Information: barnatparadisestation.com.  

Arbor Day: April 26, 2024

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I’d always heard about a huge sycamore tree that grows just off Centerville Road in East Hempfield Township. However, curiosity never got the best of me until a late winter’s day in March, when coming across Old Tree Drive, I decided to find it.

The tree, which is hard to miss, definitely bears some impressive credentials. Considered to be the oldest sycamore tree in Lancaster County, it was probably a sapling even before William Penn launched his grand experiment and welcomed those seeking religious freedom to a place that came to be called Pennsylvania. The tree stands on land that was part of the 1718 Penn Grant through which land was deeded to settlers in what became Lancaster County. Yes, that means the tree is no doubt more than 300 years old. Some estimate it to be as old as 375. (The PA Forestry Association declared it to be more than 300 years old in 1982.) Over the years, it’s been documented as being the state’s “most massive tree,” as well as its “oldest sycamore.” It stood watch over a farmhouse that dates to the 1800s and was witness to the development of the Old Sycamore Industrial Park that grew around it in the 20th century.

The tree is massive and boasts a main trunk that measures approximately 27 feet in circumference. A lightning strike in 1957 may have hollowed out the trunk but it didn’t not destroy the tree’s lifeforce. It lives on, spilling its massive branches across the lawn. One is supported by a brace that prevents it from falling to the ground. A plaque that was dedicated by the AKA Worldwide Arbor Day Foundation on April 27, 2018, declares, “A more heroic site would be hard to find in the world of trees.”

According to various websites, the sycamore, which is also known as a buttonwood and plane tree (the names of streets in the complex so honor its presence), is a fast-growing and resilient deciduous tree that can grow as high as 100 feet tall. Known for its distinctive, shedding/mottled bark, its botanical name is Plantanos (oriental plane tree) occidentalis (western). Europeans referred to it as “sycamore” because its foliage resembled that of the sycamores that grew in the British Isles. Native Americans relied on the tree’s wood to create canoes. It is native to southeast Canada and the central/eastern United States. As one website noted, “it’s a tree that commands attention.”

Located at 265 Plane Tree Drive, just off Centerville Road/Route 30.

GR Mitchell: A Company on the Grow

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It’s always heartening to see a company with deep roots in Lancaster County continue to thrive and grow. Having weathered the pandemic and subsequent supply chain issues, GR Mitchell, Inc., which is based in Willow Street, has announced it is, indeed, growing.

The company recently announced that it is acquiring Ironstone Building Materials, a local favorite building-materials supplier that serves both homeowners and construction professionals. After months of preparation, the contract between the two independent building-material dealers is complete.

From its Elizabethtown beginnings in 2000, Dave O’Connor’s auction-flipping hobby-turned-business grew in size and popularity, culminating with the brand Ironstone Building Materials and becoming synonymous with special promotions on quality building materials. With a focus on decking, railing, doors, cabinetry and trim, Ironstone found its permanent home on Hempland Road in East Hempfield Township in 2011 and proceeded to achieve recognition in Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, New York and other locations.

Years later, as Dave approached retirement, a succession plan for the business emerged due to a local connection (this is Lancaster, after all!). Dave’s son, Jesse, attended high school with the current owner of GR Mitchell, Tom Keller. When approached by Jesse, Tom jokingly responded with a chuckle and directive to “Just leave the keys under the mat.” Those casual conversations quickly turned into potential for two of the last independent players in the local building-supply industry to come together as one entity.

Ironstone’s name and reputation as the most budget-friendly supplier in the region will go unchanged, as will the staff who all are staying on-board at the Hempland Road location. But the combined buying power of these two leading suppliers has already caught the attention of the nation’s largest manufacturers, whose unique buying programs will be extended to customers of both entities.

GR Mitchell, Inc.’s roots extend back to the 1800s. The company incorporated in 1969. Today the company is best known as the region’s preferred supplier of lumber, windows, doors, cabinetry, custom millwork, hardware and more. It’s design center provides clients with beautiful kitchens and baths. Last year, GR Mitchell won the category of Best Kitchens/Baths in our annual reader’s survey.

For additional information, visit GRMitchell.com.

Butt, Who Knew!

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This year I saw two of the movies that were up for a fair share of Oscars. Those were Maestro and Oppenheimer, which won Best Picture along with a slew of other Oscars. I was anxious to see Maestrobecause of all the scuttlebutt about the prosthetic nose Bradley Cooper wore in his portrayal of Leonard Bernstein. Minutes into the film I forgot all about the nose; in fact, I completely forgot that was Bradley Cooper on screen.

As for Oppenheimer, I wanted to see that because during a trip to New Mexico several years ago, my sister and I indulged my brother-in-law’s desire to visit Los Alamos. When he suggested it as a day trip, we rolled our eyes at the thought of devoting a day to science. But, considering that John had always been a good sport about our endless shopping excursions, we agreed it was high time we did something he wanted to do. By day’s end, Ginny and I had to sheepishly admit that our trip to Los Alamos had been fascinating; the scenery was gorgeous, and we especially enjoyed visiting the historical society’s museum. I even bought a book that had been written by the wife of one of Los Alamos’s first employees.

You can’t watch either movie without taking notice of the incessant number of cigarettes that are smoked. Everyone I know (of a certain age) who saw one or both movies (as well as television shows such as Mad Men and Truman Capote and the Swans) commented that it was strange to relive that time period. Back in the day, people smoked cigarettes everywhere … in restaurants, bars and offices, as well as on trains, buses and planes. It was a fact of life; nobody gave it much thought. Now, it just seems so foreign to see that portrayed on film. Heck, even when sheriff Andy Taylor lights up on TV, it’s kind of unnerving to see.

Oddly enough, the focus on cigarettes in movies and television – and a love for mid-century modern décor – has created a new collecting craze. People are going bonkers over ashtrays. When I think back to my childhood, I recall that ashtrays were a standard accessory on every coffee table, whether the residents smoked or not. It was simply seen as hospitable to have an ashtray at the ready for guests who smoked. (My dad was dead set against smoking, probably because he helped with the tobacco harvest on his family’s farm in North Carolina as a child.)

I also remember the elaborate ashtray my grandfather had beside his favorite chair. We were not allowed to sit in the chair or touch the ashtray stand that was made of chrome and amber-colored glass. He had his things – pipe, cigars, chew and a disgusting jar – arranged on it just so. (Which is probably why my mother hated being around smokers.)

My sister also reminded me that school and scout art projects were often centered around making ashtrays as gifts for parents. That prompted me to think of a green ceramic ashtray I made in scouts. My mom hung on to it for years and used it as a catchall for paper clips, thumbtacks, etc. It was among the stuff I kept after she died. I also have one that my mom had a folk artist paint.

Sue’s childhood handiwork

An article in The Washington Post clued me in on the collecting craze. The article quoted Mari Corella of eBay, who shared that “Tens of thousands of vintage ashtrays sold on eBay in North America in 2022.” She also reported that sales in the early months of 2023 (when the article appeared) were eclipsing those of the previous year. Apparently, collectors are scouring everything from garage sales to flea markets in search of vintage ashtrays that sell for a few dollars. You’ll pay more at places like antiques shops and on sites like eBay, Chairish and First Dibs, which tend to specialize in higher-end ashtrays, hence, according to Corella, you’ll see designs from “Hermes, Murano glass artist Alfredo Barbini, and American potter M.A. Hadley.” Ashtrays with logos pertaining to bars, restaurants, casinos, hotels and resorts (especially those long closed) are also in demand.

Of course, the source for all things mid-century modern in Lancaster is Space (24 W. Walnut St.). I went in to scope out the inventory and owner Jesse Speicher confirmed that ashtray mania has been a thing for the last few years, adding that they are, indeed, difficult to keep in stock. He pointed me to the few crystal and colored glass ashtrays he currently had on hand. I also found a kitschy one that resembled a coconut shell and bore the legend “Palm Springs, California.”

So, how are people upcycling ashtrays? According to Jesse, they are being used to hold keys, rings and other small items. The eBay spokesperson pointed out that mid-century ashtrays also make great coasters, candle holders and candy dishes, thus leading to new monikers such as “catchalls” and “trinket trays” among others.

Of course, I’m now obsessed with ashtrays and look for them everywhere I go. Just recently, I had lunch at a restaurant in Hummelstown where the décor is comprised of antiques, collectibles and memorabilia and wouldn’t you know it, the vanity in the ladies room was topped with about six ashtrays. I just might have to hit the Antiques Extravaganza (April 24-28) in Adamstown this month.

Get Composting with Lancaster Compost Co-Ops!

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And you thought composting was just for people who have large yards and/or expansive gardens. Think again! Composting is for everyone. After all, we all eat and mindlessly throw organic food waste into the trash when we could be composting it. Through doing so, you have the power to lessen our environmental impact by reducing the waste stream that flows into landfills and the greenhouse gases that permeate the air.

Members work together to conduct regular bin maintenance to keep the bin active and healthy for all to use.

Across the country composting initiatives are being founded and spearheaded by municipalities, for-profit companies and volunteer organizations. Lancaster City is home to one such effort, Lancaster Compost Co-Ops, a volunteer-led initiative that enables residents to divert – and thus, reduce – landfill waste and greenhouse gases via composting.

Credit for Lancaster’s program goes to Eve Bratman, an associate professor of environmental studies at Franklin & Marshall College. In 2018, intrigued by a volunteer-led program in Washington, D.C., she began to research the premise of starting a similar program here. She also engaged the expertise of city government and organizations such as Regenerate Lancaster and Urban Edge Farm/Susquehanna Sustainable Enterprises. Grant money helped to make the program a reality. The goal of Lancaster Compost Co-Ops was simple, yet impactful: divert organic food matter from landfills, build neighborhood connections, educate the public and generate research. At the time, F&M research indicated that such an endeavor could save the city more than $5,000 per year and divert more than 16,000 pounds of food waste from landfills.

In 2021, Lancaster Compost Co-Ops made its official debut (appropriately enough, on Earth Day) with 60 members on its roster. At the time, three compost bins were available to members in Musser and Culliton parks and at the Lancaster Recycling Drop-off Center. Since them, membership has grown to 350 members and new bins have been added to Buchanan, Linear and Brandon parks.

How It Works

City residents are welcome to join this free initiative. The only requirement is a prospective member must attend an orientation program, which is typically held on a weeknight evening or a weekend morning. They must also agree to help with periodic maintenance workdays. Upcoming dates/times/signups are posted via the Co-op’s Eventbrite.

Once orientation is completed, a member chooses which location they would like to utilize and a lock code is provided that gives them 24/7 access. Members also receive finished compost (when available) that they can then use to amend the soil in their homes’ garden beds.

Earth Day Events

In order to encourage new members to join the movement, Lancaster Compost Co-Ops will be hosting a special new member orientation program at Culliton Park (285 Conestoga Street) on April 20, from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. In addition to the orientation program, visitors can learn more about composting, proper tree mulching, street and river trash clean-up, native trees and plants and rain barrels. Giveaways are also planned. Visitors can also contribute to a mural that will be in progress and participate in open-mic and poetry-reading sessions.

Lancaster Compost Co-Ops Sites

Brandon Park, 525 Fairview Avenue

Culliton Park, 285 Conestoga Street

Buchanan Park, 825 Buchanan Avenue

Lancaster Recycling Drop-off Center, 850 New Holland Avenue

Linear Park, 200 W. Lemon Street

Musser Park, 135 N. Lime Street

Information: Lancastercompost.com

The U.S. Women’s Open is Returning to Lancaster!

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May 28-June 2 at Lancaster Country Club

Golf fans, the ladies are making a return trip to Lancaster and the timing couldn’t be more apropos: the Lancaster Country Club (LCC), the site of this year’s U.S. Women’s Open, is kicking off its 125th anniversary (founded April 6, 1900) and unveiling the completion of its ambitious “A Defining Moment” project that resulted in a comprehensive upgrade of the club’s facilities and amenities.

In Gee Chun waves to the crowd at the trophy ceremony during the final round of the 2015 U.S. Women’s Open at Lancaster Country Club in Lancaster, Penn. on Sunday, July 12, 2015. (Copyright USGA/John Mummert)

The tournament was held in Lancaster for the first time in 2015 and set an attendance record thanks to the 134,016 golf fans who followed the action at Lancaster Country Club. That record stood until last year, when Pebble Beach hosted the tournament for the first time (and set television viewership records, as well). With the tournament’s return to LCC, Lancaster, of course, is aiming to reclaim and set some records of its own.

Thanks to the hospitality shown on the part of the club and the community during the 2015 event (1,500 volunteers will again be assisting during the tournament), LCC gained an honorary member in the tournament’s winner, In Gee Chun. As a result, Chun partnered with the club to create the In Gee Chun LCC Educational Foundation, which awards scholarships to local students who work or have a parent who works at the club. Chun also promotes the value of education in her native South Korea. No doubt Chun views 2015 as a lucky number, as she won two other majors that year and followed up her successes by representing South Korea at the 2016 Olympic Games.

Another fan favorite, Michele Wie West (now retired), also has ties to Lancaster. Now a jewelry designer, she created the famous Taylor Swift/Travis Kelce friendship bracelet with Wove, a city jeweler. Another collaborative effort with Wove resulted in a bracelet that benefits the recovery efforts on fire-ravaged island of Maui.

In Gee Chun holds the trophy after winning during the final round of the 2015 U.S. Women’s Open at Lancaster Country Club in Lancaster, Penn. on Sunday, July 12, 2015. (Copyright USGA/John Mummert)

The U.S. Women’s Open is the premier championship in women’s golf. First played in 1946, the tournament has been conducted by the United States Golf Association (USGA) since 1953. It is the second major of the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) season and has the highest purse in women’s golf, which is now a record-setting $12 million thanks to its partnership with Ally Financial. In addition to Chun and West, notable past champions include Minjee Lee, Inbee Park, Annika Sörenstam, Patty Sheehan and Betsy King. Last year’s winner was Hawaii’s Allisen Corpuz.

As for tickets, daily Gallery access ranges in price from $25 to $395+ and includes comp parking and shuttle service, grounds and concessions access and grandstand seating at various holes. (The higher-priced tickets provide upgraded amenities.) Packages that provide tickets for the entire event begin at $150. There is also a Flex Pass that provides access during five days of your choosing. Finally, there is the Penn Club package ($2,000) that provides total access as well as upgraded amenities.

Information:
USwomensopen.com

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