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Hawa Lassanah & Mulan

January 22, 2015 by Joanne Thomas Leave a Comment

Hawa’s reversible black/red cape and infinity scarf are from Festoon.

Hawa hails from the North Shore in Massachusetts. Franklin & Marshall College brought the psychology major to Lancaster. During Hawa’s sophomore year, tragedy struck. Her mother died. The Ghana native, who was once a stewardess for Pan-Am, had suffered a debilitating stroke. Complications led to her death. She was only 49 years old. “I had to go home and pack up the house,” Hawa explains.

Hawa returned to Lancaster and finished the school year. During her junior year, a fascination with photography prompted her to enroll in a studio art program. Her creative efforts were later rewarded with a first-place finish in 2013’s Expanded Visions exhibit (Lancaster Summer Arts Festival). XXC, which was taken from the series, The Last Frame, represented her film experimentations. A year later, she earned second place for Step One: Introduce Yourself, which came out of her How to be the Life of the Party series.

After her junior year, Hawa had to make some decisions. Paying for school became impossible. She didn’t feel compelled to return to Massachusetts. New York? Maybe. In Hawa’s mind, Lancaster had become home. “I had a great group of friends here,” she says. “I viewed them as my family.”

With the realization that Lancaster was her future, Hawa began exploring her options. In order to support herself, she worked at area restaurants and at Coe Camera Shop.

Having explored Lancaster’s art scene convinced Hawa that something was afoot. “I liken what’s happening here to what put New Hope on the map,” she says. “Artists are building a legacy here. Anything that comes out of Lancaster is worth something.” Realizing that “Lancaster is very much on its way” to becoming an art center, in 2010 she launched The Discerning Eye, a blog that covered Lancaster’s art scene. The following she developed convinced her that “Lancaster was ready” for what its artists have to offer. She also began curating shows at retail sites such as Seasons and the now-closed Roaring Brook Market. Pop-up shows also became her realm. Art had become her passion.

Her life was changing in other ways. Through one of her restaurant jobs she met her husband, Greg Good. “Nothing would be possible without him,” she says. “He believes in me.” Greg supported her dream of expanding the local art scene by opening an art enclave she envisioned as being an “incubator” for new talent.

She explains a path that was forged through her psychology classes and involvement in the art scene ultimately led to the Discerning Eye Center for the Arts, which makes its home on West New Street. Open since fall, the center enables member artists to share studio space, exhibit their work and literally “takeover” the space and help to plan scheduling during a designated month. She views the center as being a place where artists can receive support in a “realistic and tangible manner.” She also hopes that DECA can help expand the art scene beyond the downtown area and bring it into Lancaster’s neighborhoods, as well as encourage youth participation. “The ideas are endless,” she says, noting that in addition to art, the center has hosted music, films and First Saturday events.

Hawa is especially eager to help younger artists, women artists and unsung artists gain a foothold and grow in confidence. “Support is everything,” she says and points to Clinton Reckart as an example. The collage artist, who often took part in the Center’s Sip & Snip events, doubted his ability until a famous collage artist bought one of his pieces. Now, he will be having a show at DECA in February. In March, PCAD’s senior class will be exhibiting their work at the Center.

Hawa and Greg have become city dwellers and live in a house that dates to 1792. A year ago, they welcomed a dog to the family. “I hadn’t thought about getting a dog, but I had a friend who moved to Philadelphia and was working at the animal control center,” Hawa explains. “She was always posting photos of animals that needed homes.”

A pitbull-Lab mix caught Hawa’s eye. But, she didn’t act on it fast enough, and the dog was moved to a shelter in the Allentown area. Hawa was able to track her down. Despite a medical issue (her back legs were injured due to being kept in too small a cage) and an aloof nature, Hawa adopted her. “She’s doing good now,” Hawa says of two-year-old Mulan. “I think that’s a perfect name,” she says, referring to the warrior princess of Chinese lore who was made famous in a Disney film. “She can be a bit of a diva, but I love her and she loves me back. She motivates me to exercise. And, she’s my protector. If we’re walking down the street, people cross to the other side!”

Exercise is part of Hawa’s healthy-living strategy. “My mom’s death was a wake-up call,” she remarks. “She had high blood pressure. For a while I completely avoided salt.” In addition to walking Mulan, Hawa enjoys running, hiking, yoga and dancing. She relies on natural remedies and makes an effort to eat well. “Between our schedules, that can be difficult,” she notes.

Despite not earning a college degree, Hawa maintains that life is filled with educational experiences. “I had a tough ride, but you do what you need to do to survive and succeed,” she says. “And, you learn along the way. Working with artists has been educational. The best part of my business has been seeing all the young artists come out of the woodwork.” And, she’s continuing with her own artistic expression: Her photographs Step 1: How to be the Life of a Party and XXA and XXC (both from the series The Last Frame) are on exhibit at the Women’s Center at F&M.

Discerning Eye Center for the Arts is located at 12 W. New St. in Lancaster. Visit DECA-PA.com.

Column contentHeart Disease and African-American Women

According to the American Heart Association, heart disease and stroke disproportionately affects African-American women.

The statistics speak for themselves:

Cardiovascular diseases kill nearly 50,000 African-American women on an annual basis.
Of African-American women over the age of 20, 49% have heart diseases.
Only 1 in 5 African-American women believes she is personally at risk for heart disease.
High blood pressure (hypertension) is one of the greatest health risks that African-American women face. In fact, more than 40% of non-Hispanic black women have high blood pressure. Known as the “silent killer” because it is relatively symptom-free, high blood pressure can be controlled/reduced through making lifestyle changes.

My 10 Favorite Things About My Least Favorite Time of Year

January 7, 2015 by Wendy Royal 1 Comment

Since I’m the blogger for Where & When, Pennsylvania’s Travel Guide you probably expect me to say that all seasons in PA are created equal, right? But I can’t. I’m sorry, I just can’t. It’s not winter in general – it’s late winter that seems to go on endlessly. Early winter brings the anticipation of the holidays… the lights, shows, downtown shopping and family gatherings.

After the holidays are over we all take a deep breath and relax a little. When the snow arrives we enjoy the prospect of skiing, tubing and just playing around in the white stuff. But, something happens to me just after Valentines Day. It never fails, there is always one day in there that is sunny and the snow begins to melt. It may even hit 60 degrees! I remember last year thinking..”Maybe that groundhog didn’t lie after all. Maybe we will have an early spring.” But alas, temps in the 20’s were just 3 days away.

This year I have decided to look at all the things that I do like about this time of year, and here they are…

10. Soup. I love soup and I don’t have to worry about breaking into a sweat when I eat it.

9. Lancaster County Amish Mud Sales – if you don’t know what this is, check it out on www.whereandwhen.com/Articles/Mud-Sales/

8. No mosquitoes, flies or stinkbugs…yet.

7. Manure. Yes, farmers spread manure on the fields this time of year and no I don’t really enjoy the smell. But manure in cold weather is slightly better than manure in hot weather.

6. People tend to look on the bright side of almost anything. For instance, when it rains, I hear people say, “Well, at least it’s not more snow.”

5. There are still several weeks left to fit back into your skinny(er) clothes.

4. It’s a great time to see a show or go to a museum. You won’t hear your friends say, “I’d love to go, but I hate to stay inside on such a nice day.”

3. It’s really the only time of year that 55 degrees seems balmy. Just see how you feel about 55 degrees in the middle of July!

2. There are still (give or take) 300 shopping days left until Christmas

and my favorite thing about this time of year….

SPRING IS JUST AROUND THE CORNER!

Tags: Pennsylvania, spring, winter, blahs, favorite, top ten, travel, tourism, events, attractions, museum, show

All the World’s …

December 23, 2014 by Joanne Thomas Leave a Comment

Broadway may be more than 150 miles away from Lancaster, but that doesn’t mean quality theater can’t be found in PA Dutch country. In fact, if you subscribe to the notion that all the world’s a stage, then Lancaster County surely adds to its production value! I revisited some of my old favorites and even found some new theatres that substantiate that notion.

Fulton Theatre

The Fulton is easily the most iconic venue for live performances in Lancaster County. The theater’s history is fascinating and I’d suggest that you visit the Fulton’s website (Thefulton.org) to read it in its entirety.
True to the National Historic Landmark Theatre’s original functionality, the Fulton continues “to produce exceptional theatre that moves the collective soul of our community” as worded in The Fulton Opera House Foundation’s mission statement. Through community engagement, the board of trustees, theater employees, and like-minded community members offer an array of educational programs for all of Lancaster County. The Fulton Theatre provides theater-arts training to students of all ages, backgrounds, and experiences. Apprenticeships, internships and volunteer opportunities allow emerging professionals the opportunity to apply their talents. The teen-lounge program is one way the community can directly benefit from the knowledge of stage professionals and enjoy a performance.
Other innovative programs allow theater-goers to enjoy more than a show. Thirsty for History Night, which is presented by Lancasterhistory.org, is offered an hour before curtain time. Guests enjoy wine and cheese, all the while they gain an historical perspective of the show they are about to see. Wine and Theater Night invites patrons to sample wine that’s provided by Thorn Hill Vineyards (tickets are $10). There’s also a Pay-What-You-Want Night for select shows. These programs are just the tip of the iceberg for The Fulton Opera House Foundation and their community interaction.

Coming: Agatha Christie’s And Then There Were None, January 27-February 15. Visit Thefulton.org for details.

Ephrata Performing Arts Center

For the past five summers, my daughter has attended Center Stage Theater Camp at the Ephrata Performing Arts Center (EPAC). This wallet-friendly camp runs four weeks under the professional tutelage of Wyomissing native, Irving Gonzalez, who studied at the American Musical and Dramatic Academy and often directs EPAC’s annual Kids4Kids productions. The Kids4Kids performances usually kick off the season for the playhouse in the park (Disney’s The Little Mermaid Jr. runs February 6 through 22) and are no small assemblies. I’ve witnessed many a shocked face exiting the theater, stunned by the level of professionalism that is presented by actors whose ages range from 5 to 15. Tickets for these shows go fast and rightly so.
Kids4Kids shows are part of what EPAC calls “theater that matters.” The phrase is on the tip of Artistic Director Ed Fernandez’s tongue at every show. Past main-stage shows like Cabaret (2014), Angels in America (2013), and Spring Awakening (2012) demonstrate a dedication to “theater that matters” by exposing the community to performances that test our limits of acceptance, righteousness and need.
I like to provide my children with the experience of theater. Of course, I know better to take the kids to see Spring Awakening, but I don’t hide appropriate theater from them, even if the subject matter may seem too heady for their ages.
Coming: August: Osage County, March 19-April 4. Visit Ephrataperformingartscenter.com for details.

Hole in the Wall Puppet Theatre

With my kids in mind, I was a recent first-time visitor to the Hole in the Wall Puppet Theatre. I’m surprised it took me so long! The 50-seat theater, which makes its home in a building on N. Water Street, is the creation of Robert Brock (pictured ablove). Serving as artistic director, Brock has aimed to educate while entertaining since opening the one-of-a-kind theater in 1990. In addition to the family-friendly shows, the theater offers shows for more grown-up audiences, plus is home to the John Durang Puppet Museum, which boasts puppets from around the world, as well as from shows that were staged over the past 25 years. Durang, who was born in 1768 (he grew up on Water Street) and died in 1816, is regarded as the first American-born professional actor, dancer and puppeteer to achieve renown.
Performances geared toward children run approximately one-half hour, but parents will be equally as entertained. A recent performance of Aladdin & His Magic Lamp made parents and children joyful; this original adaptation of Tales of the Arabian Nights was written by Brock, who was joined by local director and composer, Jack Hughlett. I recommend taking the pre-show backstage tour. Through the tour, I learned there is much more to puppetry Ω and the Hole in the Wall Puppet Theatre Ω than I imagined.

Coming: January 10-February 14 (Saturdays), Sleeping Beauty. Hiwpuppets.org.

Theater of the Seventh Sister

A familiar face is the new face of the Theater of the Seventh Sister. Cynthia Charles, former stage actor, office manager and education and marketing director is now executive director for the theater company. In taking on that role, Charles announced the planned 2015 main-stage production of Almost, Maine. The romantic comedy is set in the high north of The Great State where a town, being so small, never incorporated and thus is “almost” a town. Almost, Maine was created by Cape Cod Theater Project Artistic Director Andy Polk in 2002. After premiering at the Portland Stage Company in Portland, Maine, the play has been produced more than 2,500 times around the United States.

Seventhsister.com

PRIMA Theatre

Place and the players within it also take center stage at Lancaster’s youngest production company PRiMA, which will kick off its fifth season on January 29 with Five, a cabaret that will serve as a retrospective, as well as put PRIMA talent in the spotlight. In September, PRIMA will present its production of Children of Eden. This musical is based on the Book of Genesis with lyrics and music by Stephen Schwartz (Wicked) and book by English director and writer John Caird. The original cast production opened in London with poor reviews and a quick run, but that did not stop the show from growing in popularity among smaller theaters. PRiMA, whose motto is “fresh theatrics,” may be the perfect group to put a new and energetic spin on Children of Eden.

Primatheatre.org.

Of course, there are many other venues in Lancaster County providing live, theatrical entertainment. I often enjoy catching a meal with a show at Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre.
The good news is that there’s even more theater coming soon. Terry Kreider, the new theatre manager at the Ephrata Main has revitalized the defunct Ephrata Area Community Theater (ACT) and created the Community Arts Foundation of Ephrata (CAFE). Stay tuned, as the group plans to conduct seminars and camps regarding live theater − and even going beyond − starting in 2015.

A Holiday Wedding on the Farm

December 23, 2014 by Joanne Thomas Leave a Comment

The holidays. A Victorian-era farm. Cherished family members. Dear friends. The perfect ingredients for a wedding!

Candace Abel is a regular client of Floral Designs of Mount Joy. In November 2013, owner Jill Hoffines-Erb assumed the reason Candace was calling was to go over the holiday-decorating schedule. That would be true. But, Candace also had some exciting news to share. She and her fiancé, Paul Rouse, were planning a wedding … for December 28! And, she needed Jill’s help.
Jill headed for Candace’s farm in order to get the planning underway. Candace knew the direction she wanted to take from a decorating perspective. Now, it would fall to Jill to execute the ideas and fill in the details. Once Jill heard Candace’s ideas, she knew the next six weeks would be all-encompassing. “This would prove to be one of our most ambitious wedding projects,” Jill notes. “And, it came at a really busy time of the year: Christmas. Thank goodness, I have a staff that could take over for me at the shop so that I could devote all my time to the wedding.”

The Vision

Candace’s plan was to invite 125 friends and family to a “holiday party” and let them learn a wedding was going to take place once they were gathered together on the farm. Unfortunately, the secret was leaked and in the end, only a few attendees remained in the dark. Those on the invitation list were asked to bring canned goods that would be donated to a local food bank.
The farm would serve as the site of both the wedding and the reception. From a décor perspective, Candace wanted to incorporate her favorite things: antiques, vintage, nature and family. Repurposing and sharing were also on her mind.
The decorating process would be two-fold: Floral Designs would proceed with the holiday decorations for the house and exterior areas and go full-tilt for the wedding in the week leading up to it.

The Chapel in the Barn

When Candace purchased the property, she was aware the house would not be large enough to accommodate family gatherings. So, she transformed the lower level of the barn into a multi-purpose room that would provide ample space for family events, parties and other activities.
Thus, the barn would be central to the wedding. Candace envisioned its upper level as the site for the ceremony. It would be divided into thirds, with one portion serving as a guest entry, the second dedicated to the ceremony and the final third transformed into a lounge.
The entry held vintage signage, an old suitcase in which guests could drop “love notes” and an antique sleigh that was filled with throws that invited guests to “wrap themselves in the warmth” of the occasion. (The upper level is not heated.) “They served as gifts for the guests,” Jill notes of the throws.
The ceremony site was lined with wooden benches. Floral Designs placed towering branches of white birch, creating a canopy effect for the space (uplighting further enhanced it). Live evergreens filled the front of the ceremony site. (They would be planted on the property after the wedding.) The trees twinkled with white lights and were decorated with various kinds of birds, which were handcrafted by Jim Showers at Floral Designs. Jill also recruited Randy and Diane Brubaker to make Moravian stars that would illuminate the soaring space. “The largest was 64 inches, the smallest 18 inches,” says Jill of the dozen stars that served to create an intimate space in which the vows were exchanged.
The highlight of the lounge area was the “sectional sofa” Jill crafted from hay bales, which were covered in fabric and made more comfortable with throw pillows. The lounge was used for cocktails and dancing.

Dinner: Rustic Elegance

The decorative elements used upstairs continued below. Elegant chandeliers contrasted with the wood and stone that denote the space. Tables, the fireplace and windowsills were all topped with greenery that was embellished with magnolia leaves, pinecones, birch branches, snow-white hydrangea, moss and woodland creatures. Mercury-glass containers held floral designs that included ranunculus and roses. Flower-filled cloches topped the tables, as well. Candlelight twinkled from within mercury-glass votives. Two dozen terrariums – dainty-sized woodland “creatures” peered from within them – also topped the tables. “They were intended as keepsakes for family members,” Jill explains. “We kept them simple so they would be easy to care for.”
Dinner was accompanied by music provided by The Silverwood Trio. Dessert consisted of a woodland-themed cake and an array of cupcake flavors. Outside, s’more-making stations were situated around firepits that dotted what once had been the barnyard. The trees surrounding the barn twinkled with white lights. The final touch: illuminated lanterns were launched into the night sky. “Every detail was addressed and met,” says Jill. “It was just magical.”

Credits:

Floral Design/Decorating: Floral Designs of Mount Joy
Live Trees/Exterior Lighting: J. Hubler Landscaping, Elizabethtown
Interior Lighting: Schumaker PDT, Lancaster
Custom Moravian Stars: Randy and Diane Brubaker, Elizabethtown
Linens: Special Occasions, Lancaster
Catering: Hershey Pantry, Hershey
Wedding Cake/Cupcakes: Hershey Pantry
Photography: Epic Photography, Elizabethtown

Falling-Off- the-Bone Deliciousness

December 23, 2014 by Joanne Thomas Leave a Comment

It’s January. In my book that means cold-weather cuisine. Nothing hits the spot like meat on the bone, which after long, slow, braising is rendered more tender and flavorful than any other cut. I’m referring to shanks, short ribs and oxtails. Something truly special happens as these otherwise tough bovine cuts are transformed into delicacies.

Ossobucco

Ossobucco Milanese

Ossobucco or “bone with a hole,” is made from cross-section slices of veal shank. This hard-working part of the animal literally resembles donuts of meat wrapped around sections of marrow bone. This classic Italian dish is typically made by seasoning and dusting the shank slices in flour, browning them well, and then braising them in white wine and broth, along with diced vegetables, until the meat is literally falling off the bone. As the meat cooks, the cooking liquids thicken into a luscious sauce that is finished with diced fresh tomato and a traditional “gremolata” of fresh chopped parsley, optional garlic and a scatter of fresh lemon zest, which serves to lighten and brighten the entire dish. Serve it with the classic pairing of Risotto Milanese and this dish may become one of your new favorite special-occasion meals.

Oxtails

OxtailsFilipino-style Soy-Vinegar Braised Oxtails with Jasmine Rice

Oxtails look somewhat like Ossobucco, only they’re much smaller, so you’ll want to have plenty. Oxtails always make me think of my friend Ron, whose mother hailed from the Philippines. She introduced our group of friends to that country’s marvelous food. Goat, mussels with bitter melon, pancit and those super tasty, meat-wrapped bones (oxtails) come to mind.
Mrs. Decanay simmered her oxtails in vinegar and soy, which reduced down to a broth-like glaze. She served them with steamed jasmine rice and plenty of sriracha sauce. The resulting dish was a study in spectacular simplicity. I remember being one happy teen when I ate dinner at Ron’s house. It didn’t even occur to me that being introduced to these different flavors would help to shape my culinary future. If you like the more tender bits of braised goodies Ω and licking your fingers as you nibble between the little nooks and crannies to get to the good stuff Ω then you will love oxtails!

Short Ribs

BBQ Braised Short Ribs With Butter Beans

Thanks to the growing interest in all things barbecue, more and more people are falling in love with the world of slow-cooking with smoke. As a result, smokers have become backyard staples, not to mention the number of take-out shops that are on the rise. At this time of the year, even the most die-hard barbecue aficionado might have to throw in the towel and give in to Mother Nature.
If you find yourself not wanting to brave the cold, try an easy-to-prepare barbecue fix that utilizes short ribs. When rubbed with barbecue seasoning, roasted and then braised in broth-thinned barbecue sauce, this cut of meat becomes deeply flavored, tremendously tender and supremely satisfying. Serve them over luscious butter beans and I guarantee the combination will get you through your craving. Just think, only another two months until you can fire up the grill or smoker!

Austin & Tara Groff … Happy New Year!

December 23, 2014 by Joanne Thomas Leave a Comment

New Year’s weekend provided the perfect backdrop for a wedding that was planned in a matter of four months.

Holiday ornaments served as gifts for the guests

The Backstory

Austin, who grew up in Lancaster County, is the owner of Embroidery by Artwear, a full-service company providing apparel and promotional items with embroidered or silk-screened logos. The company is currently based at Schaum’s Corner in Brownstown. Tara , whose Irish-Italian roots are Philadelphia-based, has been a Lancaster resident since 2000, when her father’s job brought the family here. Until her marriage, she was a paraeducator at Carter and MacRae Elementary School in Lancaster.

How They Met

The date was October 30, 2011, a Sunday. They were attending a football party. Ironically, Tara and Austin are not football fans. Each simply wanted to go out for the evening. Especially Tara. Two months earlier, during an early-morning run along a rural Lititz-area road, she was hit by a car. Her injuries ultimately required five surgeries. “I was able to leave the house once a week and Sunday was usually the day,” she explains (she depended upon her family for transportation). That Sunday evening, she planted herself in the vacant chair next to Austin. They talked non-stop. “Five hours later, I got up and left,” she recalls. Their first date took place five days later. “We went to Starbucks and took turns reading Scripture to each other,” Tara says. From that day forward, the two became inseparable. “We were best friends from the beginning,” Tara reports.

Shades of salmon were used for attendants’ gowns./ Winter-inspired “trees” topped the dinner tables.

The Proposal

Recognizing marriage was in their future, Tara and Austin enrolled in pre-engagement counseling sessions offered by their church, Harvest Bible Chapel-Lancaster. As for the formal proposal, most expected Austin to pop the question during a Biblical Missions trip that took the couple to Trinidad in July 2013. Only known to Tara’s father, Austin had indeed purchased a ring prior to the trip. But, he didn’t want to risk losing it and asked the store to keep it safe while he was gone.
Instead, he chose to propose on a day in late August. “It was a beautiful, sunny day and I was spending my last day before school started in the backyard,” Tara recalls. “Suddenly, Austin walked into the backyard. It was unusual to see him during the day; he’s usually at work.” Austin remembers asking Tara if she would be his wife.

Why January?

Tara and Austin knew they wanted to get married within the year. But, when they started perusing the calendar, they discovered 2014 would be filled with weddings of friends and family – seven in all – some of which they would be involved. They were faced with the choice of getting married in early 2014 or waiting until fall of that year. “A friend pointed out that 1/4/14 would be a memorable date,” Austin notes. On closer inspection, they decided the date would work well for all involved: Austin generally closes his business over the holidays and members of Tara’s family who lived in other parts of the country were already scheduled to spend New Year’s in Lancaster.

The salmon-and- white color scheme echoed in the cake and floral arrangements.

Let the Planning Begin!

With only four months to plan their wedding, the couple had to begin making decisions. Tara points out that she is a rarity where wedding-planning is concerned. “As a little girl, I never dreamed about my wedding,” she relates. It was Austin to the rescue! The Inn at Leola Village is a client and he suggested they meet with them. Thankfully, the date was open. And, to the couple’s relief, working with the venue equated to one-stop services, as the inn provided everything: food, flowers, cake, rooms for the ceremony and reception, guest accommodations and even spa/salon services. “We did get to do taste-testing for everything,” Tara comments. “That was so fun!” For other vendors, the inn was able to provide a list of recommendations. One of the needed vendors was the photographer. Matthew Tennison came highly recommended by both the inn and a friend.

The Forecast Includes Snow!

Early in the week prior to the wedding, forecasters began using the word “blizzard” to describe the weather for Thursday/Friday. Wonderfully, the warnings were reduced to a mere snowstorm. An icy snow began to fall Thursday evening. Tara and Austin remained unflustered. “I love the snow,” Tara says. “I thought it would be cool to have snow from a picture perspective.” The two discussed the situation with Matthew and decided they would take advantage of the winter-wonderland scenery and shoot some portraits along the backroads of Leola between the morning rehearsal and the 4 p.m. ceremony. “We loved Matthew’s approach,” Tara comments.

The salmon-and- white color scheme echoed floral arrangements.

A Perfect Day to Praise God

The inn proved to be the perfect choice for Tara and Austin’s wedding. Knowing the weather could be problematic and with 240 guests scheduled to attend, they decided to hold all aspects of their big day at the inn. In regards to the ceremony, Austin is of the opinion that “a church is not a building; it’s a group of people.” He adds: “We wanted to focus on giving glory to the Lord.”
The plan was to hold the ceremony in the Dietro Room and then move the guests to another area for hors d’oeuvres. A sit-down dinner would then follow. The newlyweds chose to dance to Inland by Jars of Clay. The day closed with an after-party. Guests were given gifts of Christmas ornaments that bore words taken from Scripture (Austin imprinted the ornaments himself). “We thought they would be meaningful,” he says.
Tara’s favorite memory from the day is two-fold: She will never forget seeing “most of the people we love gathered in one room.” She also cherished the fact that she and Austin were “worshipping Christ for the first time” as a married couple. As for Austin, he’ll never forget his first glimpse of Tara at the “First Look” photography session.

A Year Later

The Groffs will be expanding their family this month. “A 1/5/15 delivery date would be amazing!” Tara says of the birth of their first child.

lockwise from left:/ Because so many guests would be arriving from out of town, the Groffs decided to have the ceremony and reception at The Inn at Leola Village./ Holiday ornaments served as gifts for the guests.

WOLVES OF WINTER

December 23, 2014 by Joanne Thomas Leave a Comment

January 18 will mark the first full moon of 2015. It has several names: the Old Moon, the Moon After Yule and the Full Snow Moon. Perhaps its most famous name is the Wolf Moon; many Native American tribes so-named it in honor of bands of wolf packs whose hungry howls carried far and wide in the winter nights.
Wolf Sanctuary of PA offers By the Light of the Moon Tours during each month’s full moon, including one for the January Wolf Moon.
Located in Speedwell Forge outside Lititz, the sanctuary is an educational facility featuring 20+ acres of natural woodland and dozens of rescued wolves. The sanctuary provides the wolves with food, shelter and veterinary care using funds from visitor donations and contributing members; it receives no government or corporate assistance.
By the Light of the Moon Tours are $20 per person. Tours (no reservations are needed) begin at 7:30 p.m. The tours are restricted to those over the age of 16 (please call ahead if special assistance is needed).
Can’t make it for the Wolf Moon tour? Wolf Sanctuary of PA is offers daytime tours throughout the winter, too. Hours: Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10 a.m. (reservations required; admission charged); Saturdays and Sundays at noon (no reservation required, but admission charged).
717-626-4617 or wolfsanctuarypa.org.

Bridal Fashion Notes

December 23, 2014 by Joanne Thomas Leave a Comment

Brent L. Miller Jewelers & Goldsmiths’ New Sparkle

What a way to celebrate your 35th anniversary! Brent L. Miller Jewelers & Goldsmiths is now located in a stand-alone building at 1610 Manheim Pike (just across from its previous location in Chelsea Square) that you can’t help but notice! Mother-son owners Jo and Ryan Miller took the green route by infusing an established building with a new purpose. Formerly the home of Precision Machine Company, the Millers worked with Beers & Hoffman Ltd. Architects and Warfel Construction to transform the building into a jewel. At 7,500 square-feet, it more than doubles the size of the former store. The unique, curved-glass entrance/foyer ushers visitors into a modern space that offers a larger display floor, ample work areas for goldsmiths, as well as a private room for selecting engagement rings and wedding bands.
Brentlmiller.com

My Shoshanna!

First it was bathing suits. Then party dresses. Next up was fashions for little girls. Last year, Shoshanna Gruss was named Style Director for Elizabeth Arden. Now, Shoshanna is conquering the world of bridal. She began with bridesmaid dresses that are truly stylish, form flattering and can definitely be worn long after the wedding is over. Last year, Shoshanna unveiled her new line of bridal dresses that are geared to what she calls the “casual bride,” whose big day may be taking place at the beach, in her parents’ backyard or at a favorite restaurant. The line of 10 white dresses is also perfect for the bride who wants to change into a fun and comfortable dress for the reception. Shoshanna’s description of her dresses – the life of the party – says it all.
Sources for Shoshanna fashions can be found along the Main Line and in Philadelphia (as well as in Washington, D.C.). For store locations, visit Shoshanna.com

A Bag Full of Memories

The new TLC show, Something Borrowed, Something New could have been inspired by Sonia Holbrook, owner of Sonia Rose in downtown Lancaster. Several years ago, Sonia had an idea that involved recycling. The premise combined wedding gowns that were taking up storage space and her love of creating one-of-a-kind bags that are perfect for those social occasions that require something special. Yes, you can take grandma’s wedding gown to Sonia and she can create a memory bag that would be the perfect accessory for … you guessed it, a wedding. Or, if you’re getting married and because of alterations, you have fabric from your own gown, with Sonia’s help, you could create a future heirloom. Also, be sure to check out the shop’s array of accessories, fur cover-ups, lingerie and more.
50 N. Queen St., Lancaster. 394-3700.

Love Anthropologie?

If the answer is yes, you’ll really love the Wayne-based company’s bridal division, BHLDN, which launched its latest collection – Iconic – in late November. This collection stays true to BHLDN’s skill at providing brides with the airy and comfortable vintage and bohemian looks that embody today’s weddings. While the designs may be inspired by recent fashion history – ’20 to ‘60s – BHLDN is adding very modern elements to its collections, including mother-of-the-bride fashions, bridal accessories, fun reception dresses, etc. If you’re planning a beach wedding, BHDLN is for you! Fabrics include silk, crepe, satin and lace.
Where can you get BHLDN? A short road trip to Georgetown (Washington, D.C.) will be necessary (there’s also a store in New York). But, what the heck! You can make a pit stop at the famous Georgetown Cupcake.
3222 M. St., N.W., Washington, D.C. 202-337-1363. BHLDN.com.

New Location for Weddings by Paulette

After 37 years in Millersville, Weddings by Paulette owners Paula Pryer and Ethel Lawrence decided it was time to refocus and relocate. The latter meant searching for a more high-profile address. That was remedied when an employee happened to notice an ad on Craigslist for available space in the Village of Fiddlers Green in Neffsville. Hess Home Builders, which owns the shopping center, loved the idea of adding another woman-oriented business to the mix.
As for refocusing, Paula and Ethel will continue to concentrate on weddings. New bridal lines are being added and a new emphasis will be placed on contemporary fashions for mothers, as well as for bridesmaids. “Today’s mothers are much more fashion-conscious,” Paula says of those bridal VIPs. Considering that the shop is located in the vicinity of country clubs, hotels and other special-event venues, Paula and Ethel hope to attract women in need of special-occasion dresses, as well.
While the new shop is slightly smaller than the previous location, it is more streamlined. “The industry is going in the direction of boutique-like shops,” Paula notes of the atmosphere they are aiming to foster.
2503C Lititz Pike/Village of Fiddlers Green. Weddingsbypaulette.com.

Pizza, Pasta, Subs & More at Caruso’s Fruitville Pike

December 23, 2014 by Joanne Thomas Leave a Comment

The holidays are not quite over! For football fans, January qualifies as the most wonderful time of the year. For college-football fans, this year marks a milestone: a national-championship game will be contested in Arlington, Texas on January 12 (the semi-final games will be played January 1). Also during January, the NFL will be in play-off mode, culminating with the Super Bowl being played in Phoenix, Arizona on February 1 (along with the Puppy Bowl on Animal Planet and the Kitty Bowl on Hallmark). So, put that New Year’s resolution on hold! It’s party time. Pizza, wings, subs, beer … it’s all good. Whether you’re looking to go out or host your own party, Lancaster-area restaurants, bars and grocery stores are gearing up to satisfy your cravings.

Caruso’s Italian restaurant & pizzeria has been serving pizza, pasta and subs in the county for over 30 years. The original Caruso’s opened in 1982 in Neffsville and continues at that location today.

Frank Caruso, who operates the Caruso’s location on Fruitville Pike, explains that each of the seven Caruso’s, including one in Schaefferstown, is independently owned by a different member of the family. “As family members became older, they launched their own restaurants. We pride ourselves on making the best quality homemade pizzas and breads in the area – we try to set the standard for quality for locally-owned pizzerias,” he states.
Although they share a common name and commitment to quality food, each Caruso’s has its own atmosphere. The Caruso’s on Fruitville Pike – where business is evenly split between eat-in and take-out customers — opened in early 2010, and it has a fun vibe. The black-and-white checkerboard flooring is paired with wainscoting, a warm Mediterranean yellow-orange paint and accents such as windows, shutters and window boxes. The overall feel is that of dining outdoors along a narrow Italian street. Seating is mostly tables, but there’s also counter seating in front of a wide front window. There’s a mouth-watering display of specialty pizzas near the counter where customers place their orders.

The menu features an array of items including appetizers, seven varieties of fries, fresh salads, pizza, calzones, stromboli, burgers, wraps, hot and cold subs, pasta dinners and Italian favorites. “Our entire menu is great. I love serving people what I would like to eat, and at the right price,” Frank stresses.
While pasta is popular in the winter and salads rule the summer months, Frank maintains that the popularity of pizza never wanes. Pizza is Caruso’s top-seller, especially the stuffed pizzas such as spaghetti pizza. “When you see it come out of the oven or being served, it’s mouth-watering. Pizza is great, even if it’s just a slice, but the spaghetti pizza is really something special,” he enthuses.
Sandwiches, particularly the cheesesteak, are also popular. “You can’t go wrong with a cheesesteak that features fresh, local in-season produce and homemade bread that’s baked fresh daily,” he says with a smile.
Lasagna is homemade using a family recipe, and Frank points out that his favorite dishes – Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo and Penne Vodka – are customer favorites as well.

During football season – especially the play-offs – pizza and wings are the hands-down top-sellers. On Super Bowl Sunday, party-platters, including a make-your-own-party platter or sandwich, join the line-up as do some special items such as flower rolls. “We do have some TVs here and there are some regulars who come in to watch the games, but on Super Bowl Sunday, most people have parties of their own. That day is just crazy for us – we’re on the go all day,” Frank says.

Caruso’s Fruitville Pike is located at 1908 Fruitville Pike, Lancaster, 519-1919, Carusospizzeria.com/fruitville and on Facebook. Hours are Monday to Thursday, 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.; and Sunday, 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Other restaurants and neighborhood grills to consider for Super Bowl Sunday include:

The Brickyard Restaurant & Sports Pub, 415 N. Prince St., Lancaster, Brickyardsportspub.com. With nearly two dozen TVs, including an 80-inch model above the bar, and a 10-foot projection TV to capture the action, The Brickyard is worth a visit. Food and drink specials, games and trivia round out the Super Bowl Sunday action.
Mosby’s Pub, 215 E. Main St., Mount Joy, Mosbyspub.com. Normally closed on Sundays, Mosby’s will be open on Super Bowl Sunday. The menu will be limited to wings, which are a specialty of the house. Super Bowl fans can enjoy the action at the restaurant or enjoy take-out wings at their own parties.
Stubby’s Bar & Grille, 254 E. Frederick St., Lancaster, Stubbysbarandgrille.com. Stubby’s features 16 TVs, including several big-screens in the bar and dining area. The celebration here includes food and drink specials and a free food buffet at half-time.
Buffalo Wild Wings, 2065 Fruitville Pike (Overlook Town Center), Lancaster. A newcomer to Lancaster’s dining scene, Buffalo Wild Wings, which is heavily touted on Dan Patrick’s radio show, opened in May 2014. Traditional and boneless wings are available; five rubs and 17 different sauces as well as a seasonal special sauce, are the star attractions. Additionally, the restaurant boasts 47 TVs, including three 160-inch projection TVs.
For party trays, local grocery stores such as Stauffers of Kissel Hill, Darrenkamps, Oregon Dairy, John Herr’s Village Market, Ferguson & Hassler, Giant and Weis Market have entered the Super Bowl fray. Here, you’ll find everything from cheese trays to cold cuts to cupcake configurations that are decorated in team colors. Advance notice may be required, so be sure to check with your favorite source.