CELEBRATING LANCASTER COUNTY'S PEOPLE, SCENERY,

HERITAGE, STYLE & POINT OF VIEW SINCE 1987.

Ramping Up for Spring

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Often called “wild leeks,” ramps are delicate, cool-weather vegetables similar to chives or onions. This ephemeral plant is easily over-foraged, which has led to ramp patches – including a few in this area – becoming closely guarded secrets. 

Harvested ramps showcasing white bulbs and green leaves. Wild ramps propagate through the division of bulbs and through seeds produced in the fall.

In the past, only one “outsider” was granted the opportunity to visit a well-guarded ramp patch that is harvested by Jim Switzenberg, the owner and executive chef at the John Wright Restaurant. To my delight, I became the second. While I was granted permission to bring a camera to the location, like the person who visited before me, I was required to wear a blindfold and turn off my cell phone so that I could not identify the route we took to get there or pinpoint its exact location. I must admit, the CIA-like maneuvers were well worth it. Upon arriving, I was introduced to the mother lode of ramp patches!  

Community-to-Table 

If you grew up going to mountainous destinations such as Wellsboro and Coudersport in Tioga and Potter counties respectively, you may have noticed local fire companies advertising ham-and-leek dinners. Growing in cool weather, ramps (Allium tricoccum) are bulbed vegetables with flavor characteristics adjacent to onions, chives, scallions or larger, cultivated broadleaf leeks. In such places, ramp-digging is a pastime, while the aforementioned dinners are held to celebrate the arrival of spring and benefit local fire companies and other organizations throughout the Appalachians. West Virginia appears to be the epicenter of dinners and festivals that are dedicated to ramps.    

John Wright Restaurant’s owner and executive chef, Jim Switzenberg, with his dog, Zeke, ahead of their first foraging trip of 2022. Jim reports that Zeke knowingly anticipates harvest time, as it allows him to explore the myriad of scents and curiosities of the ramp patch.

Searching for ramp sources closer to home (Lancaster and York counties are about as far to the east as they grow), I came across an Etsy “store” that listed ramp oil for sale by WrightsvilleFoods. Knowing the John Wright Restaurant offered ramps for sale and infused menu items with them in the spring, I thought there must surely be a connection. It also occurred to me that for a restaurant to procure the number of ramps that would be needed for such purposes, they would need access to the mother lode of ramp patches. 

As it turns out, WrightsvilleFoods is a part of John Wright Restaurant’s efforts to diversify revenue streams for greater stability. John Wright Restaurant is also home to The Real Food Emporium, which is stocked with an ever-changing selection of unique take-out items and cooking ingredients. The new operations were launched to fulfill a need during the pandemic. “We never want to be in a position where we can’t take care of our employees,” Jim explains.  

A massive, Wrightsville-area ramp patch conserved in part with the John Wright Restaurant, is located on private land. Locating a patch of ramps filling the area of a square yard is typically considered a success.

The opportunity to add ramps to the menu arose roughly seven years ago when guests questioned Jim about his familiarity with ramps and if he knew what to do with them. One of the guests explained, “I hear I have a gold mine of ramps.” As it turned out, the guests’ property is home to a ramp patch they had been mowing over for 25 years. “Every year when we run a ramps special, we’ll invite them down,” says Jim. “I give them purée, as much as they want. I taught them a few dishes to impress their friends. These guys know that I really care. For us, it’s community-to-table.”

Going In Blind 

Visiting this acclaimed ramp patch took more than a year of conversations and planning before Jim would eventually agree to take me along on a foraging trip. It was decided that I would have to go in blindfolded. Spared from knowing the location of their ramp patch, this protected the source and I’d be freed of inquiries on how to get there (so don’t ask!). In the spring of 2021, I narrowly missed the first opportunity after uncommonly warm weather literally steamed the ramps in the ground. The damp soil and jarring heat turned the ramps yellow overnight, abruptly ending the foraging season at a third of its usual duration of six to eight weeks. Larger harvests come at the end of the season, leaving yields low and so, my foraging trip had to wait another year.

Healthy wild ramps display broad leaves that grow to about 4-inches wide. Preferring cool, damp conditions, ramp leaves develop in early spring and wilt in the warmth of late spring.

In April of 2022, the day finally arrived. It was a picturesque spring morning at the restaurant that awards guests with stunning views of the Susquehanna River. Nature roused from its annual slumber beneath clear skies, as the warm sun fended off the cool, brisk air. We met outside the restaurant, where I was greeted by Jim and his dog, Zeke (Ezekiel), who was every bit as excited about our expedition. “What every forager needs is a good dog who wants to go with them,” says Jim. “He knows. He knew the season was coming,” he says of Zeke sensing something special was in store that morning. As Jim gathered his foraging tools, Zeke and I settled into the front of his truck. “We’re going harvesting, not foraging,” says Jim with a lofty grin. Powering off my phone to disable GPS, I pulled my baseball hat over my eyes and our adventure began.

The Harvest 

Arriving at our undisclosed location, we found ourselves surrounded by ramp patches. “Just wait,” Jim exclaims. “We’re not even there yet!” Even if someone had no idea what ramps look like, their presence is alerted by your nose. The air offered fresh scents of spring, laden with robust notes of sweet onions or perhaps garlic. It was a familiar smell, yet somehow new. We walked a short distance and Jim’s grandiose claims materialized. A dense swath of green leaves filled the wooded hillside. I started to question if a camera could capture the massive scale of this ramp “patch.”

Like Jim, I soon viewed this place as special. He understood the resource that grew before us, the importance of growing and protecting the patch by limiting harvest to sustainable, though still incredible, volumes. “We treat it like conservationists,” he says, explaining that by harvesting 100 pounds of ramps, John Wright’s chefs can produce 15 gallons of purée. 

Jim is the right person to utilize this patch. He respects it and the landowners, cherishes it, shares it and even utilizes it to foster the local community. I suspect that 25 years of mowing over the patch and not harvesting from it made it what it is today, since the lawnmower blades helped to disperse seeds and force new growth. Jim has essentially taken that development a step further by bringing the flavor of ramps to the community through the John Wright Restaurant in a sustainable, easily attainable way.

Slow and Vulnerable 

While ramps are a perennial plant returning each year, they are incredibly slow to propagate. This is the reason foraging must be sustainable or else ramp patches will disappear. Ramps multiply in one of two ways: splitting bulbs in the soil or germinating seeds dropped later in the year. According to Dr. Eric Burkhart, program director at Shaver’s Creek Environmental Center and associate teaching professor at Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences, it can take three to five years until the seed turns into a bulb, creating a conservation issue. In the wild, if each forager harvests 10% of a patch, in no time at all it will become depleted.

Jim uses a pick to harvest, not forage, ramps for use in menu items and products sold at the John Wright Restaurant.

Because the land-use legacy throughout Pennsylvania has changed often over the past 300 years, ramps have been removed. As lowland areas were cleared for agriculture, they became scarce. “People are starting to chip in to move plants around,” says Dr. Burkhart. Once considered a lower-class food due to the smell, “We’ve gone from rags to riches when it comes to ramps,” he notes.

Ramp Foraging Tips 

Depending on the region and weather, ramps can be ready to forage anywhere from the end of March into early- or mid-April. Waiting as little as four weeks to harvest in May will require less than half as many plants to produce an identical volume of smaller, less mature ramps. This can make all the difference in terms of sustainability and even flavor, as it’s more developed in mature plants.

WrightsvilleFoods Ramp Oil is made and bottled in the kitchen of the John Wright Restaurant. Concentrating and preserving the flavor of ramps extends the season well-beyond springtime and across many plates.

When harvesting, select only the most mature ramps (with three large leaves) on plants that have a seed stump from the previous year. Mature plants should be surrounded by smaller seedlings, which can be moved to start new patches if replanted quickly. In commercial operations, ramps are harvested from rotating or gridded areas. 

Some advocates encourage only harvesting the leaves and leaving the bulbs in place. In any case, harvesting must be sparse, not done in groups or patches, while trying to leave the soil undisturbed to keep weeds down. Think to cull, not clear. Harvesting, not destroying.

If you’d like to forage for ramps, start by looking for them on shaded, northeast-facing banks. Their stalks can be red or green, usually with three and sometimes four leaves. Ramps can tolerate full sun if there’s enough moisture nearby to stay hydrated. They prefer damp soil rich in calcium and low in acidity. Nearby trees that thrive on water sources can be clues to finding them; they include sugar maple, tulip poplar and slippery elm. Carry a soil or garden knife; I prefer the Japanese-style hori hori knife. Also carry a drain spade to tilt the soil and carefully pry ramps out of the ground. Remember to pat down the ramps you don’t intend to harvest.

Storage and Cooking 

John Wright Restaurant’s Rampi Scampi is anything but bashful. The tangy bite of foraged ramps stands out with the tooth of the al dente pasta, sweet shrimp, silky stewed tomatoes and thin slices of parmesan cheese. It’s served with Pour Man’s Brewing Company’s Perspective Pilsner.

Bulbs will last up to three months in cold storage, while leaves will start to wither and yellow in a matter of days (store them in a Mason jar with a little cool water to keep moisture in the stems). 

Ramps, which are high in Vitamin C, can be fermented and pickled. Fresh ramps can be sautéed in butter with mushrooms or pasta. They can also be stir-fried or used to create pesto and flavored butter. Dried bulbs can be ground into powder and used in place of garlic powder or salt. Ramp oil purée preserves and extends the availability of ramps throughout the year while adding pungent flavor in smaller amounts across many dishes, including stews, eggs, pizza and bread. The possibilities are endless! 

Mediterranean-Style Gardens: What is (Very) Old is New Again

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It appears that European gardeners – even the English – discovered the allure of Mediterranean-style gardens last season. Now the trend is crossing “the pond” and will be making an impact on American landscaping and gardening in 2023. 

Mediterranean-style gardens are distinguished by vibrant colors, decorative tiles, stone texture, terracotta containers, fragrant plants and spaces dedicated to dining.

Readers who, like your columnist, have been gardening for decades, have seen many trends come and go. It took years for us to get over our enchantment with those deep English perennial borders that not only required a squad of gardeners to maintain, but sooner or later succumbed to our hot and humid summers. 

The next trend we fell for was ornamental grasses – touted as low-maintenance and the more the better. Right. Over the course of a few years, we learned they die out in the center and require the assistance of a rugby player to divide. But far worse, those Asian grasses have now seeded all through the meadows and woodlands of our county. Just look, you’ll see them. As a result, I’ve removed all my Miscanthus plantings.

Musts for a Mediterranean-style garden include: A shaded area filled with interesting architectural plants.

In recent years, the “New American Garden” has been the rage, highlighting native plants. It’s become a mania with some home gardeners. I try to appreciate their position, but we can’t overlook the countless non-native plants that deserve to be stalwarts in our borders. Besides, there are native plants that qualify as thugs. I also ask the question, native to where? Just the county? The eastern U.S.? One should not dispute that conifers (evergreens) from Asia are fundamental to providing structure in our gardens. And don’t forget that the much-loved and coddled turf grass dominating the suburbs is not native.

A Solution For a Changing Climate 

What can we learn from the gardens of Spain, France, Greece, Morocco and Italy? And why copy? While it may be trendy, the fact of the matter is the gardening style employed in those countries is determined by their hot, dry, sunny climate. Notwithstanding the fact that some areas in the western U.S. had record-breaking rain and snow in recent months, global climate change is predicted to bring hotter and dryer conditions to our northeast summers. 

Musts for a Mediterranean-style garden include: Walls (or portions of walls) painted a vibrant color.

The changes in our climate have been noticeable. Providing supplemental watering July into August has become typical. Families returning from a few days away, find their water-needy plants parched. Due to those circumstances, why not try to adapt our borders to this changing state of affairs?

Mediterranean Characteristics 

Gardens in the Mediterranean are all about sensory experiences: vibrant colors, gravel paths, decorative tiles, stone textures, cane furniture, painted walls, terracotta pots and fragrant plants. Casual gatherings with friends. Coffee with a book enjoyed under a pergola. Low maintenance. Really. 

The cushion upholstery can provide a needed pop of color in the garden.

Why not adapt this casual, elegant style to your own backyard? Such gardens have a timeless feel. Think of a Greek balcony or an Italian terrace garden. Some plants found in such gardens are native, but those grown in similar climates – California, South Africa and Mexico – obviously would be good choices for adapting the style to South Central Pennsylvania.

Structure  

All too often we think gardening is first and foremost all about the plants. But successful gardens start with structure. Mediterranean gardens incorporate natural materials in their walls and paving. The natural landscape of the area is mineral-based and entails lots of stone, sand and gravel. 

Low-maintenance, heat-loving plants flank a stone-and-gravel staircase.

Gravel is used for patios, paths and to mulch the plant beds. (Happily, the bark mulches your writer disdains have no place here.) The gravel paving takes the place of time-consuming, water-dependent grass. The light color of the gravel will reflect heat back onto the vibrant, sun-loving plants. Edges between gravel mulch and paving can be softened with low-growing fragrant herbs. Here and there some larger rocks or boulders can be arranged on the gravel (as long as it looks natural).

Characteristically, glazed tiles in patterns or pulsating colors are used on stair steps or as accents on walls or counters. These brighter touches are tempered by the earth tones of pavers on patios and terraces.

Musts for a Mediterranean-style garden include: Stone and gravel for texture.

Sure, pastel walls look great as a background to plants, but why not jazz things up a bit by painting the walls in vibrant shades of terracotta, mustard, lapis blue or even magenta, which are so often the distinctive background colors that are seen in hot-weather countries. Perhaps paint just a section of a wall or an alcove because most of the color should come from the flowering plants. 

A nice feature is a small pool or fountain (made from natural materials) to provide soothing relief from the reflected heat. For sure, include a bird bath not far away.

As the finishing touch for the style, patio furniture should preferably be a natural material like cane or rustic wood. And, of course, a pergola defining the dining spot with some climbing plants to provide dappled shade.

A pergola creates a defined space for dining.

For a small urban garden or a suburban home that has added one of the “outdoor-living” terraces featured in “landscaping” (actually hardscaping) ads throughout LCM, perhaps the Mediterranean style is just the ambiance needed for relaxed, outdoor living even in temperate Lancaster County.

Cultural Requirements 

A south-facing site that receives six to eight hours of sun throughout the season but is also protected from the elements is ideal. If you already have light sandy soil, you’re ready to go, but if you garden on clay, you’ll need to mix in plenty of gravel to provide adequate drainage. Your plants will all require good year-round drainage. If the area you want to plant is frequently waterlogged, that is, it stays wet after heavy rain or snowmelt, you’ll either need to construct raised beds or put all your plants in pots. (Ensure good drainage in your pots by mixing in gravel, sand or perlite.)  

Plants can spill over and soften rock walls.

Plants growing in conditions seen in Mediterranean countries prefer nutrient-poor soil, so hands off your beloved fertilizers! In next month’s Gardening Journey, I will suggest appropriate container and in-ground plant choices.

Containers 

The warm color of terracotta pots is traditional in Mediterranean gardens to set off the vibrant colors of the flowers, tiles and walls. Terracotta soaks up and reflects the heat and is available in pot sizes large enough to accommodate “architectural” plants like palms and yuccas. 

Musts for a Mediterranean-style garden include: Terracotta containers and decorative items.

Be certain the terracotta you purchase is frost-proof; it’s more expensive but will ensure that your pots get through cold winter weather. The cheaper versions from the box stores will shatter eventually when exposed to below-freezing temperatures. Also think about adding an enameled cobalt-blue container to contrast with the terracotta.

As you prepare your containers for planting, you’ll soon become aware of how heavy they become. Perhaps put them on casters before filling with soil if the planting will need to be moved to a protected area during the winter. Display the pots in a sunny area and water only when the soil feels dry. Use a gravel mulch on the containers for appearance and to keep the roots cool.

Spend the early spring readying your sunbaked patio for a transformation into a Mediterranean-style getaway. In next month’s column, I’ll provide your planting list. By then, soil will have warmed up and our splendid local nurseries will be well-stocked. This summer you will be transported to another world just outside your door. Only missing is a view of the sea and a bocce-ball court!

Edward Babiarz: The Paper Artist

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Edward Babiarz dips his hand into a 10-gallon bucket filled with a bright-red slurry. It is almost comforting to watch the texture move as his hand becomes the agitator. He cups a small handful of what looks like liquid but with a squeeze of his fingers against his palm it transforms, and he hands me soft, tepid and malleable pulp. This is the moment his art takes shape.

Edward Babiarz, pictured at his home in Berks County, found his artistic calling after attending an exhibition at Franklin & Marshall College. His self-curated display, The Paper Trail, runs through April at the Yocum Institute for Arts Education’s Holleran Gallery in Reading.

“There’s always been a creative component to my life that I felt I needed to get out,” says Edward, who initially thought his artistic release would come through the piano. An early stint in broadcast journalism provided a creative spark, but even though he loved his time behind the mic at WBQW in Scranton and programming for WKRZ out of Wilkes-Barre, he had to find something else. In the ’90s, Edward was living in Elizabethtown, working as a care-management professional, when he found his true artistic calling. He attended a showing by paper artist, Jeanne Petrosky, at Franklin & Marshall College and had an immediate connection with the work. “I was captivated.” 

The two chatted and soon Edward was attending her workshops on papermaking; he then began renting an area in her studio until his art outgrew the space. He then created a workspace in his current home just outside of Reading. (Edward and Jeanne became lifelong friends and he even attended her wedding to Dennis Guzenski, a faux-finish artist, with whom she collaborates to create, per artfulhome.com, “things you don’t need, but that deep down, your soul requires.”) 

A detailed look at Irene, inspired by the artist’s vibrant aunt, shows vivid hues of blue paper carefully arranged.

Edward officially started displaying his artwork in 2001 “and from there it just built,” he says. “It was a natural progression, and I didn’t feel forced to succeed.”

Well, succeeded he has. In his element in his kitchen, with plates of pastries laid out on the counter and Cuban coffee brewing, it is easy for Edward to talk about his art. His art is his voice, a reflection of his thoughts and emotions and after we chat for a bit, he leads me downstairs to his studio/office where I can observe the process and reflect on several of his pieces still in his possession.

The Process

“I began holistically making paper,” explains Edward, who limited himself to 12” x 14” sized pieces in the beginning. He worked himself into a confident comfort level and the pieces got bigger. The process starts with a raw sheet of 100% first-cut cotton linter. When cotton is processed for clothing and traditional uses, the long fibers are separated from the cotton seed; the seed is then put through a “linter” to remove the fibers remaining inside and these become a medium for papermakers. 

Edward shreds this sheet by hand into a 5-gallon bucket filled with water and then uses an industrial mixer to create a pulp or slurry. To produce the color, he adds a time-tested and proprietary blend of colorized pigments designed to penetrate the fibers of the pulp. Once the desired color is achieved, he retrieves a bit of pulp from the bucket and places it into a mould and deckle used to press the paper into form. “I create my medium; I feel like I have a personal attachment to my art because I know what it is like to make the paper, to mix, to know the right consistency, agitate and produce something that has integrity and strength,” he remarks. 

A commissioned piece, Last Look, depicts an ocean-view sunset.

After pressing, the individual sheets are allowed to dry. No two pieces of paper are the same; each piece has two sides, giving Edward something to consider even before assembly of the pieces as a whole. When the paper is ready to become part of the grand creation, it is lightly misted and manipulated by hand with assistance from any number of objects to provide the depth and motion Edward desires. Finishing sculpting is done with a simple plastic knife. Once complete, larger works can take more than a month – sometimes almost two months – to dry.

“The paper will dictate sometimes exactly what happens to it. Initially, paper is just flat; it’s lifeless. There’s nothing really to the paper at first and I want to transform it into something that has movement, life and energy. Sometimes a piece provides a different meaning for people depending on how they see things,” explains Edward. He seals each of his creations with natural methyl cellulose, an emulsifying and suspending agent, making it impervious to threats like insects and humidity.

Resurrection of My Demon Brother stirs the emotions of many viewers. Edward says sometimes art is cheaper than therapy.

Pieces like Resurrection of My Demon Brother are “cheaper than therapy,” he admits, while describing the artistic process of the piece hanging in his office. The main focus of the work is a papered-over mask with a white form thrusting forth with pages of individual paper striped through the middle with shades of crimson red – “energy that is pushing out,” he explains. The piece incorporates alpaca hair embossed onto the paper. “This piece was shown in Ohio and Canada, and it has gotten some interesting reactions,” he notes.

Exhibits

“My work has been in a number of shows in Lancaster County, and I’ve been honored by the Lancaster County Art Association; they are just fantastic people,” says Edward, whose first appearance in an Association exhibition came in 2006. He has been recognized worldwide for his art, gaining the most notoriety with Canadian curators and collectors. In 2022, he was elected an associate member of The Plastic Club in Philadelphia, a volunteer-run nonprofit started in 1897 to promote the malleable and changing nature of art and to support artists working in every medium – including paper.

Origin is power radiating beyond its constraints.

Now through April 30, Edward offers his artwork in an exhibition benefiting the Yocum Institute for Arts Education and Co-County Wellness Services. Titled The Paper Trail, the self-curated collection of more than 25 works is on display at Yocum’s Holleran Gallery. A few of the pieces included are Origin, Luminescence 1 and Intersectionality. Shows like The Paper Trail provide one of the best ways to experience Edward’s art. “I’m not a marketer. I don’t self-promote. I don’t even have a website, which I probably should,” admits Edward. “I put my voice on paper.”

The Holleran Gallery is located at 3000 Penn Avenue in West Lawn, Berks County. Hours for the exhibit are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-8 p.m., and Saturday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Visit yocuminstitute.org for more information. 

Support a Local Author & Bookstore

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Finding contentment with what one has can be difficult, especially for children. In an often materialistic society, many kids experience the pressure to fit in with peers through possessions such as trendy clothes or the latest gadgets. Local author, Jessica Whipple, addresses the “fuzzy boundary between wants and needs” in her debut children’s picture book, titled Enough Is… The book poses the question: How many friends, clothes, toys or books are enough?

The 32-page book, illustrated by Nicole Wong of Fall River, Massachusetts, follows one child as she learns the difference between wants and needs and, in the end, feels the contentment that comes from being satisfied with what she has. Published by Tilbury House, Enough Is… is recommended for children ages 6-8 years old and will be available to the public April 18. Aaron’s Books in Lititz will be hosting a launch event for Jessica’s debut book on Sunday,
April 16, at 2 p.m.

Meet the Author: Jessica Whipple

Photo by Nick Gould

Jessica, along with her husband and two young daughters, recently moved from Pittsburgh to Lancaster. Jessica has another book on the way this year, titled I Think I Think a Lot, which will be available to the public August 29. Ahead of her debut book release, Jessica shared a glimpse into her journey to become an author.

Q: When did you realize you wanted to be a writer?

A: I have a communications degree, so writing has always been a component of any traditional “job” I’ve had, whether as a copywriter at a marketing agency or writing a newsletter for a nonprofit. But the inkling to see if I could write a picture book came when I was a young mom with a toddler and an infant. It started as curiosity: “Could I do this? What does it take to write and publish a book?” And the more I dug into those questions, the deeper my research took me [and] the more excited I became at the idea. 

Q: Why children’s books?

A: I like the interplay between images and text that’s balanced so perfectly in picture books. They’re the smallest iteration of an idea, in a perfect package of art and words. I like squeezing something big into such a small space.

Q: What inspired you to write Enough Is…?

A: I don’t know where ideas come from, but I don’t feel 100% responsible for my own. Maybe they come from God? All I know is, I didn’t have the idea, and then I did. I know it was fueled by my desire to share things about the world with my own children.

Q: Can you tell me about your other upcoming book, I Think I Think a Lot?

A: That one’s inspired by my experience with OCD, or obsessive-compulsive disorder. It follows an overthinking, worry-filled child as she compares her own thinking patterns to those of her friends. They seem troublingly different, but she comes to discover the beauty in her own way of experiencing the world.

To learn more about Jessica, visit authorjessicawhipple.com. 

Book Launch Details
When: Sunday, April 16, at 2 p.m.

Where: Aaron’s Books, 35 East Main Street, Lititz

What: Jessica Whipple will be celebrating the release of her book, Enough Is…, with a book signing. Enough Is… can be preordered from Aaron’s Books or purchased at the event. Only books purchased  at Aaron’s Books can be signed at the event. RSVPs are required via aaronsbooks.com. 

 

Top 10 To-Dos for April 2023

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1 Rails & Ales | April 1

Photo courtesy of Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, PHMC.

Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania

Enjoy an evening of craft beer samples among a collection of historic trains inside the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania. Rails & Ales will feature over 20 craft breweries, both local and regional. Food vendors will also be on-site, including Blazin’ J’s, Homage Cuisines of the West African Diaspora, Walk-O Taco and more. General admission begins at 6:30 p.m. and last pour is at 9 p.m. Tickets for VIP hour (5:30-6:30 p.m.) are also available. Tickets must be purchased in advance and can be found on Eventbrite. Proceeds benefit the nonprofit, Friends of the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania. Information: railsandales.org or 717-687-8628.

 

2 Nature Series: Growing Community through Urban Agriculture | April 8

Photo courtesy of Madison Walter.

LancasterHistory Tanger Arboretum

Get inspired to grow something new this year at The Friends of the Tanger Arboretum’s Nature Series kickoff event. The Nature Series is a collection of nature- and outdoor-focused education programs. The 2023 Nature Series will start with “Growing Community through Urban Agriculture” on April 8 at 10 a.m. Madison Walter, who is an urban agriculture coordinator for the New Castle Conservation District, will explain how urban agriculture projects transform spaces and empower individuals to reclaim ownership of their environment. Tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for children and can be purchased online. Information: lancasterhistory.org/event-categories/tanger-aboretum or 717-392-4633.

 

3 Invincible Book Launch | April 12

Photo courtesy of Anne Schober.

Our Town Brewery

Anne Schober, Mollie Ayers and 26 other chronic illness patients have created a book called Invincible: Finding the Light Beyond the Darkness of Chronic Illness. The book is a compilation of these individuals’ stories as they experienced the anger, denial, grief, acceptance, triumphs and joys that can encompass the journey of chronic illness. When the creators began writing this book, they thought of themselves as 28 invisible warriors because many of them do not “look” sick. Through the writing process, all the authors came to understand that “they are not invisible; they are invincible.” The book will be released on April 12 during their book launch at Our Town Brewery from 6-8 p.m. Information: Facebook or 717-203-1610.

 

4 River Towns Plein Air | April 12-23

Photo by Kaylee Rex.

Marietta, Columbia and Wrightsville

Explore the river towns as 60 talented artists paint en plein air, which is French for “in the open air.” The event spotlights original artwork completed on location over an eight-day period in the historic Susquehanna River communities of Marietta, Columbia and Wrightsville. The event culminates in a juried exhibition and sale held at the Marietta Community House/Studio 264. The exhibition and sale will be open April 21-23.

On April 15, anyone can participate during the Quick Draw held in Columbia from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Participants of all ages have two hours to paint or draw from observation in a designated area of the town. From 12-2 p.m., finished works of art will be on display, juried for cash awards and available for sale. Registration for the Quick Draw is $10. Information: mariettaartalive.com or 717-314-9551.

 

5 PA Family Travel Fair | April 15

Photo courtesy of PA Family Travel Fair.

Calvary Church

How much of Pennsylvania have you explored? Our home state is filled with unique destinations and experiences, such as museums and historical sites, amusement parks, outdoor adventures and unique lodging. The PA Family Travel Fair is designed to showcase fun and affordable vacation opportunities in the state. At this free, family-friendly show, discover exhibitors from across Pennsylvania and learn how much the state truly has to offer. No sales are involved, just lots of free information, fun children’s activities, mascots, raffle drawings and giveaways. Kids can enjoy performances from magician Papa Tater and Clyde Peeling’s Reptiland. A variety of food trucks will be onsite as well. Information: pafamilytravel.com or 717-492-2544.

 

6 Spring Fling | April 15

Photo courtesy of Conestoga Area Historical Society.

Conestoga Area Historical Society

The Conestoga Area Historical Society will celebrate the opening of their 2023 season with the second-annual Spring Fling on April 15 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. This family-friendly event will feature face-painting, egg-painting, an Easter egg hunt, a balloon artist, building tours, vendors of historical merchandise and food trucks. There will also be demonstrations, such as broom-making, tin-smithing, blacksmithing, cloth-weaving and pottery-making. Be sure to check out the society’s authentic Conestoga Wagon on display! Information: Facebook or 717-872-1699.

 

7 Art at Brunch: Art Bag Challenge | April 16

Photo courtesy of PCA&D – Center for Creative Exploration.

Zoetropolis Cinema Stillhouse

Explore your creative side at the Art Bag Challenge hosted by PCA&D – Center for Creative Exploration. The event is similar to Chopped, but attendees create art instead of food. Participants of all ages will be given a mysterious bag of materials to use in a work of art. Every material must be incorporated. Once finished, participants will title their work and place it in the judging area. Then everyone gets a chance to vote for their favorite art and favorite title. Winners will be awarded crafty trophies. No registration is required but a $5 donation is suggested. If you plan to have brunch at Zoetropolis, reservations are strongly recommended. The event will take place from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Information: PCAD or 717-396-7833.

 

8 Lancaster City Restaurant Week | April 17-23

Photo by Jordan Bush.

Downtown Restaurants

From delicious burgers to authentic cuisine from around the world, Lancaster City offers a dining option for any mood. Explore Lancaster City’s diverse dining scene during Restaurant Week as many restaurants offer special menus or discounts. Support local restaurants by dining in, ordering take-out or purchasing a gift card. Information: lancastercityrestaurantweek.com.

 

9 Race Against Racism | April 29

Photo courtesy of Michelle Johnsen/YWCA Lancaster.

Musser Park

Participate in the 25th-annual Race Against Racism hosted by YWCA Lancaster! Lancaster’s Race Against Racism is the biggest and longest consecutively run in the nation. Run the 5K as an individual or create a team. Children 12 and under can participate in the Kids’ Fun Run. The Race Against Racism raises money for YWCA Lancaster’s Center for Racial and Gender Equity, which aims to root out injustice, transform institutions and help the world see women, girls and people of color as equal, powerful and unstoppable. Information: ywcalancaster.org/raceagainstracism or 717-393-1735.

 

10 Bark for Life | April 29

Photo courtesy of Relay for Life of Lancaster County.

New Life Fellowship Church

Bring the family and your furry friends to this fundraiser hosted by Relay for Life. The event will feature a “Strut Your Mutt” parade, dog games, contests, giveaways, food, vendors, demonstrations from a local search and rescue team and a visit from the East Hempfield Police canine unit. There will also be a live auction starting at 1 p.m., featuring themed gift baskets, gift cards from local stores and restaurants, tickets to local attractions and merchandise from local businesses. Attendees are encouraged to bring donations for rescues, including blankets, treats, toys, food and cleaning supplies. The event will also raise money for the American Cancer Society to help fund groundbreaking cancer research. The free event will run from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Information: relayforlife.org/barklancasterpa or 717-817-6799.

 

 

For more information on local events, click here!

Top 10 March To-Dos

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Photo courtesy of Lancaster County Wood Carvers.

1. Woodcarving and Wildlife Art Festival

March 11-12 | Millersville University Student Memorial Center

This festival will feature exhibitors displaying their woodcarving and wildlife art, live demos, door prizes, presentations, a silent auction, hands-on carving sessions and vendors. Art will be available for purchase from many artists and carvers. This year’s theme is Wonders in Wood and will feature special guest Kevin Applegate, an accomplished woodcarver and member of Caricature Carvers of America. The show will be open Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., and Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission is $5 or free for those with a student or military ID. Parking is free. Information: lancarvers.com.

 

Photo courtesy of LAIF.

2. Lawilowan American Indian Festival

March 11-12 | Park City Center – BonTon Building

Celebrate Native American culture with drumming, singing, dancing, flute circles, crafts, vendors and food. The event will also feature a dreamcatcher raffle to raise money for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW). Admission is $5 per person and free for kids under 7 and adults over the age of 65. Hours are Saturday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m., and Sunday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Information: lawilowan.com or on Facebook.

 

Photo by Kirk Zutell.

3. Charter Day

March 12 | State-owned Museums

Pennsylvania was created when England’s King Charles II granted a charter to William Penn in 1681. The Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission (PHMC) will celebrate Pennsylvania’s 342nd birthday with free admission to certain state-owned museums. Participating Lancaster-area museums include Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum (landisvalleymuseum.org), Ephrata Cloister (ephratacloister.org), Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania (rrmuseumpa.org) and Cornwall Iron Furnace (cornwallironfurnace.org). Information: phmc.pa.gov or 717-787-3362.

 

Photo by Beth Cardwell Photography.

4. WeeUsables Consignment Event

March 15-18 | Spooky Nook Sports

Find everything you need for the little ones in your life, including baby gear, toys, books, puzzles, clothing and more. Over 850 local families have consigned their new and gently used items in this sale. There will also be a variety of vendors on-site. On Saturday, everything will be half off, and from 6:30-7:30 p.m., there will be a cash-only stuff-a-bag sale. Each bag will cost $10, and all money collected will be given to a local charity. Parking is free, as well as admission on Thursday-Saturday. Tickets must be purchased for the pre-sale on Wednesday. Information: weeusablesevent.com or 717-495-2855.

 

Photo courtesy of YWCA Lancaster.

5. Taste of Success Culinary Showdown

March 24 | Listrak

Experience a culinary, interactive cook-off event featuring the talents of students from Lancaster County Career & Technology Center. Enjoy a variety of appetizers and desserts and vote for your favorite dishes. A bar featuring local beer and wine will also be available. The evening benefits the New Choices Career Development Program at YWCA Lancaster, which provides free career development through individualized coaching sessions and workshops. The event will take place from 6-8:45 p.m. Information: one.bidpal.net/newchoices or 717-393-1735.

 

Photo courtesy of Prima Theatre.

6. Into the Woods

March 10-12, 17-18, 24-25 | Prima Theatre

Enjoy this Tony Award-winning musical that takes everyone’s favorite storybook characters and brings them together for a modern classic. A host of fairytale characters pursues their happily ever after, but each must learn the responsibility of wishes that come true. The Prima production will be directed by Galia Backal, who was the resident director of the Broadway hit, SIX. Information: primatheatre.org/woods or 717-327-5124.

 

Photo courtesy of Junior League of Lancaster.

7. Run4Luck

Lancaster Country Day School | March 11

The Junior League of Lancaster is hosting their 18th-annual race to benefit the organization’s mission of improving communities by supporting women and promoting voluntarism. Lace up your running shoes and don your green gear for a 5K, 2-mile walk or a Fun Run for the little ones. There is also a virtual option available. The festivities kick off at 9 a.m. Information: jllancaster.org/run4luck or 717-392-2415.

 

Photo courtesy of Zenkaikon.

8. Zenkaikon

March 24-25 | Lancaster County Convention Center

For one weekend in March, the streets of Downtown Lancaster are filled with mystical creatures, cartoon characters and video-game avatars during Zenkaikon. The three-day event features panels, workshops, screenings, cosplay, video and tabletop gaming, live action role play (LARP), anime music videos (AMV), dances, vendors, artists and more. There will also be a variety of special guests, including voice actors, authors, cosplayers and comedians. Information: zenkaikon.com.

 

Photo courtesy of American Heart Association.

9. Lancaster Heart Ball

March 25 | Lancaster Country Club

Enjoy dinner, music, dancing, an engaging program and silent and live auctions while supporting a worthy cause. Heart disease is the number one killer worldwide, while strokes rank second globally. The American Heart Association raises awareness for cardiovascular health and has invested over $5 billion in research to fight heart disease and stroke. The Heart Ball raises critical funds and promotes the lifesaving work of the American Heart Association. The event will be held from 6-11 p.m. Information: event.gives/56317 or 717-329-4678.

 

Liberty Homestead from Kingsville, MO. Photo courtesy of Lancaster Quilt Show.

10. Lancaster Quilt Show

March 29-April 1 | Wyndham Lancaster Resort

Browse a variety of quilts and quilting materials from 45 vendors from all over the country at the 31st-annual Lancaster Quilt Show. Visitors can also participate in a variety of classes and learn how to create table runners, bags, unique quilting techniques and more. Be sure to enter the free raffle to win over $1,300 worth of vendor donated products. Food vendors will also be on-site. Hours each day are 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission and parking are free. Information: Eventbrite.

 

Waterside Getaway

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Who doesn’t fantasize about living by the water! The historically low interest rates, which were available during the pandemic, created a phenomenon that enabled people to realize their dreams of buying second homes. One such couple set their sights on living beside the water in the Annapolis area. Once they found the perfect property, they turned to Kathy Shenk of Interior Fancies, as well as other Lancaster-area companies, to transform it into their home away from home. 

The view of the Severn River is what drew a Lancaster couple to the property they ultimately purchased outside of Annapolis, Maryland. Guests often take a seat in the swivel-chairs and enjoy their early-morning coffee as they take in the views of wildlife and activity on the water.

The avid boaters actually owned a second home in the Fells Point area of Baltimore. However, after nine years, they were ready for a change of scenery. When a potential buyer expressed interest in purchasing their home in early 2020, they saw it as an opportunity to relocate to a less-urban area. Their criteria for buying a new property included an on-site, deep-water dock for him and a pool for her. Other than that, they were open to what the market could provide house-wise. Besides, they knew they could call upon a talented designer for help – Kathy Shenk of Interior Fancies had worked her magic on their home in Lancaster. 

The couple attended some open houses in the spring and summer of 2020 and eventually became clients of a real estate company that specialized in waterfront properties. In late summer, they found a near-perfect candidate. It had the requisite dock and pool, but the house needed updating. “Some of the properties we looked at had no hope,” the wife says of remodeling possibilities. “But there was something about this one that appealed to us,” she says, naming the view of the Severn River as the hook that reeled them in. “That view never looks bad.” 

The concept of the sunken living room – aka the conversation pit in ’60s lingo – is staging a comeback. Now being referred to as Zen zones or lounges, they provide the perfect separation from the togetherness that open-concept floor plans foster. Here, the two steps that span the width of the room’s entry point, replaced the two railings and narrow steps that separated it from the other areas. A sophisticated coastal-inspired color palette and transitional furnishings make it the perfect room for relaxing or socializing. The new windows frame the views of the sky, water and trees. Kathy brought added interest to the decorative ceiling with paint and wallpaper.

In the wife’s estimation, the house needed a major overhaul. Built in 1987, it reflected the design aesthetics of that era. One might describe it as eclectic overload, as it exhibited elements of French provincial, colonial, traditional, ’60s modern, ’80s contemporary and even lodge styling. “That was the ’80s,” Kathy notes. “A little bit of everything!” As it was built just before the open-concept look became popular, the first floor was a maze of separate rooms. “There were five colors of wood flooring on the first floor alone,” the wife recalls. “There were no sight lines,” says Kathy of the river view that begged to be seen and enjoyed.  

The husband had an altogether different opinion about updating the house. While he agreed the kitchen needed a major remodel, he maintained that some minor tweaks would make the house perfectly livable.

Metallic shorebirds add a subtle coastal element to the room’s décor.

Kathy arrived on scene in early fall for a meeting. Obviously inspired by a previous walk-through, her ideas flowed forth! Recognizing her suggestions had merit, the couple came to the agreement that the house would benefit from an extensive remodel on the first floor and a cosmetic refresh on the second floor. The husband did appreciate hearing the good news that 75% of the furnishings from the Baltimore house would be reused and repurposed. Besides, he had his dock. Life was good. 

Team Lancaster

It was immediately obvious that a general contractor would be needed. TK Building & Design, which is headed by Tim Kotzmoyer, who recently became the president of the Building Industry Association of Lancaster County (BIA), was selected to provide its services. “Tim had to get the proper permits in order to work in the state of Maryland,” Kathy notes. Other Lancaster-area companies involved in the project included Wall to Wall Floor Covering in Ronks, Quality Custom Cabinetry in New Holland, Quality Wall Solutions in Manheim, TJ Painting Wallcovering in Columbia, Caliber Hardwood Floors in Ephrata, Keener Insulating & Supply in Lancaster and Sunshine Constructions in Felton, York County. 

The new staircase winds its way from the lower level to the second floor. New hardwood flooring that is used throughout the main level replaced the marble and five hardwood finishes that once defined it.

How does one direct a long-distance project such as this? According to Kathy, technology makes it very doable. “During the construction phase, there was no need for frequent site visits.  A majority of the design details were completed before construction began,” she explains. “If there were questions, we could FaceTime. On projects such as this, I make myself available.” She also accumulated ordered items at her studio until she could fill a transit van, at which time the Interior Fancies team drove them to Annapolis for major installs.  

A Marriage of Styles

Kathy originally began working with her clients in 2010. The challenge then and now was to merge their style preferences into a cohesive design. He’s a traditionalist, while she gravitates to contemporary and what she calls “hotel-chic.” 

By replacing the fortress-like doors at the front entrance with glass-and-wood entry doors, guests are now afforded the opportunity to experience the river views even before they step into the house.

Working with them over the years has allowed Kathy to become attuned to the couple’s tastes and, as a result, balance their two style preferences. “Kathy is so good at conveying both of our aesthetics,” the wife remarks. 

In the case of the living areas at the Annapolis house, transitional styling solves the dilemma. The primary suite, however, is 100% hotel-chic, as it features luxe bedding, exotic lighting, a spa-like bath, a glam walk-in closet and, of course, a view that is well worth waking up to. Even the bathtub is situated so that one can relax (with a glass of wine!) and get lost in the view. 

Creating Design Solutions

In an era when buzzwords such as casual, comfortable and cozy define home design, this house definitely reflected a bygone time period. The formality of the house had to be dialed down a notch! That would be solved by creating an open-concept plan on the first floor. As it stood, each of the rooms was an entity unto itself. One unfortunate point was the fact that the enclosed dining room didn’t offer a view of the river. The kitchen layout was awkward and the cabinetry was outdated. Brick-lined accent walls clashed with the hardwood and marble floors. 

Before Photos

The living room was odd: two banisters (colonial styling) that were inset with etched-glass panels (’80s contemporary) flanked the narrow step-down entry into the sunken room. The modern track lighting didn’t mesh with the scale or the style (ornately classic) of the space. The windows were outdated. 

The marble floor that defined the foyer didn’t complement the style and color of the double entry doors or the style of the winding staircase. Finally, they debated whether to keep the heavily paneled home office as such or repurpose it.

The design plan called for taking down dining room walls. “By doing that, we were able to take advantage of a wonderful curving wall that was perfect for including a bar,” says Kathy. A formal dining room in a getaway home? According to designers and lifestyle gurus, “formal-esque” dining rooms are staging a comeback, even in the case of second homes. The theory is that long, leisurely dinners with a view of nature – especially if you have guests – are what getaway homes are all about. 

The once-enclosed dining room is now part of the open-concept living areas. In addition to the view of woodland, the space now features a sight line that takes in the river.

The redesigned kitchen is a cook’s dream – the wife loves to cook – and again, it lends itself to entertaining 21st-century style, as it isn’t isolated from the other areas. It’s adjoined by a light-filled, glass-enclosed breakfast room that overlooks the back of the property and the river beyond. A cozy sitting area (with a fireplace) is also part of the open configuration. 

As for the living room, the banisters were eliminated and steps that span the width of the room make it an inviting space, along with the fireplace and again, the spectacular view. “We spend a lot of time in that room,” the wife says. “It’s just a peaceful space. Guests love to sit in the chairs by the window and take in the views as they enjoy their morning coffee. I’m glad it gets used like it does.” 

The dining room chairs exemplify the yin and yang of modern-day entertaining. The silk-like starburst fabric on the back of the chairs exudes formality, while the forgiving performance fabric on the front/seating of the chairs addresses casual, carefree comfort.

In the case of the solid-wood entry doors, custom glass-and-wood doors replaced them. “I wanted people to be able to arrive and be greeted by the view of the river even before they step into the house,” the wife explains of the unobstructed view that now exists. 

Regarding the office, those too have become important additions to getaway homes, due in part to telecommuting. “We decided to keep it as an office so that guests have a private place for phone calls or to get work done,” the wife elaborates. Glass entry doors ensure complete privacy. The spectacular staircase winds its way from the lower level to the second floor.   

The round table employs pie-shaped “leaves” that pull-out to easily expand the table’s dimensions. Kathy spied the tables at Furniture Market and shared her find with her clients, thinking the design would be a perfect solution for their needs. “We’ve had as many as 12 people seated around it,” the homeowner reports.

The Annapolis house has also become a perfect getaway for the couple’s Lancaster-based daughter and her family, as well as for their other daughter (and her friends) who lives in D.C. The second-floor guest rooms are decorated to reflect their style personalities. Their grandson’s room is pure coastal, as it exhibits a colorful nautical theme. 

Kathy 

Decorating and interior design have been in Kathy’s wheelhouse for as long as she can remember. As a child, she took pleasure in rearranging the rooms in the house where she grew up. She and her father drew pictures of houses together. “When I played with Legos, I’d build houses,” she recalls. 

Technology such as FaceTime initially allowed Kathy Shenk to stay abreast of how work was progressing, plus answer questions that arose.

As a student at Manheim Central High School, her favorite class was an interior design elective. Then, it was off to study at Pennsylvania School of Art & Design (now PCAD), which at the time offered a three-year curriculum. “I could have gone on, but I wanted to get married and start working,” Kathy explains. She launched her career by working for a Lititz design firm called Crisp Interiors. 

She eventually joined forces with Carol Mylin, who specialized in creating floral and greenscaping designs for clients. “Customers often asked her if she knew anyone who could help them with decorating,” Kathy recounts. “She’d suggest me and before I knew it, I had a full-time business going,” she says of working both independently and collaboratively with Carol, who is now retired. 

Subtle coastal influences in the dining room include wavelike blue edging on the draperies and vintage black-and-white photos from Annapolis that hang on the curved wall.

Six years ago, Kathy relocated from Manheim as a result of purchasing Martin’s Interior Design Studio in Lancaster. The name, Interior Fancies, nails Kathy’s intent: The displays and samples within the boutique store make you want to redecorate your entire house! 

Ironically, Crisp Interiors had been purchased by Martin’s when owner Janet Crisp retired. “So, I guess I’ve come full circle,” says Kathy of her 27-year career. 

Going Coastal 

The pandemic forced us to become homebodies. The goal was to create spaces that conveyed peace and tranquility, essentially an escape from the stress we were dealing with due to Covid and all its ramifications. In doing so, we discovered there’s nothing quite like the color blue to bring a sense of serenity to a room. Hence, a design aesthetic called “coastal” captured our fancies. “Coastal has always been a favorite look,” says Kathy. “Because it’s based on natural elements, it never goes away. It’s always evolving.” 

Two islands distinguish the kitchen. The larger island is topped with quartz and is outfitted with brushed gold drawer/cabinet pulls. Amenities include a wine fridge and microwave oven, both of which make the island conducive to entertaining. The smaller island is topped with butcherblock and serves primarily as work space. A coffee station is yet another highlight of the kitchen.

Whether people lived by the ocean, in Midwest suburbia or in big-city high-rises, coastal catapulted into becoming one of the hottest looks over the course of the past three years. If people couldn’t realize the dream of having that second home by the water, they nonetheless decided to bring the aesthetic home. Shades of blue, sisal rugs, slipcover-inspired upholstery and other elements were used to transform homes into waterside-inspired retreats. 

Through attending Furniture Market in High Point, North Carolina (October) and the annual gift shows in Atlanta (January), Kathy took note that coastal is once again evolving. As the Annapolis house proves, coastal can perfectly harmonize with traditional and contemporary styling. “Even with rustic,” she points out. It was also obvious to her that home décor is continuing to reflect our love affair with nature. Paint colors, wallpapers and fabrics are reflecting the best of all worlds – water and woodland – by going in a blue-green direction. The homeowner agrees with that assessment, sharing that while the river views are the main draw, the woodland views from the front of the house are equally as compelling. 

The herringbone wall seamlessly holds ovens, storage cabinets/drawers, the refrigerator and freezer drawers.

Other color observations for 2023 according to Kathy: “Grays are getting warmer and blues are becoming watercolor-like.” Blush tones that deliver barely-there color are also on her radar. “One of the hottest colors is a blush shade of lavender,” she reports. Her travels also reveal that brushed brass is popular, as is mid-century modern furniture. 

The Annapolis house is not Kathy’s first venture into coastal design. Of late, she has been working with clients on designing their home on Kiawah Island in South Carolina, where alligator and golf aesthetics add to the coastal design. Clients in West Palm Beach, Florida, have followed her advice to incorporate a softer color palette into the décor of their home. Transplants on the Gulf Coast of Florida are backing away from their Lancaster County traditional décor and are easing into a more casual and relaxed look for their new home. “I’m trying to expand them out of their comfort zone, to consider other things,” she says.  

A light-filled breakfast room features transitional furnishings and a vinyl carpet.

If you love coastal but are leery of making it your look in land-locked Lancaster County, Kathy says to throw caution to the wind and go for it. No, don’t overboard with obvious displays of shells and beach-oriented tchotchkes and art. Instead, color, fabric and finishes can be used to provide a sense of your happy place. 

The Allure of Annapolis 

While the couple loves their Annapolis home, they still consider Lancaster as home. “Would we ever move there permanently?” the wife muses. “I could see that happening eventually, but our two-year-old grandson keeps us connected to Lancaster.” 

Hotel-chic was the game-plan for the primary suite. Luxe fabrics, Moroccan-inspired lighting, touches of gold and a view worth waking up to make it the ultimate getaway. There’s also a touch of coastal courtesy of the blue-and-white animal-print fabric that covers the bench at the foot of the bed.

For now, the two are enjoying the mini-vacations they take to Annapolis, which is less than two hours from Lancaster. Of course, the water is the main draw – it’s a 20-minute cruise down the Severn to the Chesapeake Bay. 

As for Downtown Annapolis, it’s just minutes away and it seems there’s always something to do. This month, for example, the state’s Irish heritage will be celebrated with all sorts of events, including a large St. Patrick’s Day parade in Annapolis. (Eight traditional Irish pubs can be found in Anne Arundel County/Annapolis alone.) 

The serene color palette in the bath makes for the perfect way to begin or end a day. Features include his-and-her vanities, a spa-like shower, a tub with a view, penny-round tiled walls and Silhouette shades from Hunter Douglas.

Late winter also sees Annapolis host Restaurant Week (cruising up to dock bars is the newest addition to the dining scene.) There’s also a BWI Craft Brewing Trail to explore. 

Spring signals the next edition of an annual film festival, while June hosts Art Week, which entails classes, workshops, gallery exhibits, performing arts and an en plein air event. In September, the Kunta Kinte Heritage Festival pays homage to the perseverance and the cultural/educational heritage of the African Diaspora. As for the holiday season, Annapolis was named by Travel & Leisure magazine (2022) as one of the country’s top Christmas towns. Of course, Annapolis is famously known as being the home of the United States Naval Academy. 

A glam walk-through closet keeps clothing and accessories organized and contained.

As if there’s not enough to do in the Annapolis area, Baltimore and Washington, D.C., are less than an hour away. 

Still, the couple bought a home there for a reason. They love the peace and serenity that their little slice of heaven provides. “Going there provides an escape from the daily grind,” the wife explains. “All the clutter stays in Lancaster,” she says. Even laundry is kept to minimum, as wardrobes revolve around casual living. “It’s just a peaceful place to escape to,” she notes. 

It’s always sunny in this guest room courtesy of the wallpaper. Hues of green and blue add to the serenity of the room.
The coastal version of red, white and blue is executed with quilted bedspreads, pillows and nautical art. The coastal décor extends to a propeller-inspired ceiling fan, woven headboards and a bleached-wood dresser. Cosmetic updates included paint (the red-hued natural wainscoting was painted a crisp white) and the addition of sisal-like carpeting. The room is a favorite escape of younger visitors.
After much consideration, Kathy and her clients decided to retain the home office as is. Home offices have become popular additions in second homes, as they provide owners and guests with a quiet place to work or make phone calls. With the exception of the desk, all the furniture is from the owner’s previous getaway home. The pull-out sofa provides yet another guest room.
The staircase leads to the second floor, where coastal-inspired décor welcomes family and friends to the Annapolis area.

A Homestyle St. Patrick’s Day

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St. Patrick’s Day is surrounded by good intentions, misconceptions and green dye. By learning about the man behind the holiday, as well as the cooking and culinary traditions of Ireland, you may be inspired to host your own St. Paddy’s Day gathering that could include a history lesson (trivia contest!), a home-cooked Irish-inspired menu and a toast to good health. 

On the menu: Traditional Lamb Stew, from The Irish Cookbook by JP McMahon, is simple yet decadent. Lamb shoulder on the bone eliminates the need for stock, broth or searing the meat to coax out rich, savory flavors with a slow cook over low heat. Accented by sea salt, fresh thyme and sweet notes of onion and hearty potatoes, serve it with pours of Guinness Draught Stout.

GET THE RECIPE

St. Patrick’s Day History and Lore

First, a little history is in order. St. Patrick, who is the patron saint and national apostle of Ireland, was born in Britain during the fourth century. At the age of 16, he was captured and enslaved by Irish pirates. He credited his strong faith as the reason he was able to endure six years of enslavement. Upon his escape or release, he made his way back to Britain, where he became a priest. 

A recurring dream compelled him to become the “voice of the Irish.” While he is credited with introducing Christianity to Ireland (he used the shamrock to explain the concept of the Holy Trinity), he was beloved by Christians and non-Christians alike. Legends surrounded him, including the tale that he drove all the snakes out of Ireland (not true). St. Patrick’s Day, which  was initially commemorated as a religious feast in 1631, paid homage to his death date, March 17, 461 A.D. St. Patrick’s Day became an official national holiday in Ireland in 1903. Dublin’s first St. Paddy’s Day parade stepped off in 1931. 

Irish émigrés to the United States are credited with transforming St. Patrick’s Day on this side of the pond into a secular holiday. Boston’s first St. Paddy’s Day parade dates to 1737, while New York’s was launched in 1762. Homesick Irish soldiers serving in the British Army are credited with organizing them. St. Patrick’s Day is also celebrated in grand style in Chicago, where the Chicago River has taken on a green hue on March 17 since 1962. Today, bars and restaurants nationwide join in celebrating the holiday with special menus and parties, even if they serve Latin, Asian, Italian, Greek or down-home American food on the other 364 days of the year. After all, as the saying goes, everyone is Irish on March 17. 

Cooking

Yes, we’re familiar with shepherd’s pie, corned beef and cabbage and other Americanized Irish dishes. But, there’s so much more to explore from a culinary standpoint. 

If you plan to cook at home on March 17, you’ll need some inspiration. The Irish Cookbook by Chef JP McMahon, published in 2020, offers bits of history, context and spectacular photographs paired with hundreds of Irish recipes. McMahon reaches into the deepest depths of Irish history, examining the evolution of Irish foods and how they became defined as Irish. Another book I like is My Irish Table: Recipes from the Homeland and Restaurant. Written by Cathal Armstrong and David Hagedorn, it offers recipes of classic, traditional Irish dishes.

The Irish Cookbook by Chef JP McMahon, published in 2020, is a gorgeous cookbook offering historical context of Irish food. Some recipes are more approachable than others, but all are thoughtful and are paired with spectacular photographs. (Follow him on Facebook and Instagram @mistereatgalway.) 

McMahon reaches into the deepest depths of Irish history, examining the evolution of Irish foods and how they became defined as such. He champions the wild, seasonal and sustainable ingredients that especially define western Ireland. His Michelin-starred restaurant, Aniar, in Galway, is regarded as a beacon for contemporary Irish cuisine.  

In his book, Chef McMahon draws attention to the stereotypical potato as a relative latecomer in Ireland’s history, which spans thousands of years. From Celts to Romans, Normans to Vikings, there were many, often dramatic influences bringing change to Ireland. Thus, he defines Ireland as “the ultimate melting pot” in regards to Irish cuisine. 

The potato occupies a critical point in history, preceded and marked by The Great Famine, which had as much to do with oppressive English rule as it did with diseased potatoes. “There was plenty of food in Ireland,” writes McMahon. “It was just not available to the starving tenement farmers and peasants who had relied solely on the potatoes to feed themselves. More food was exported out of Ireland during the famine than before it,” he continues. “Masses of corned beef and barley left the island to feed people elsewhere. The potato was therefore a blessing and a curse for the Irish people. A small patch of potatoes could sustain a family, but over-reliance meant that the failure of the crop contributed to the deaths of a million people and the emigration of as many between 1845 and 1951,” writes McMahon.

Custard pours over slices of buttered bread and sultanas (golden raisins) before baking.

At the time, the potato variety known as the “Irish Lumper,” was predominantly grown and was particularly vulnerable to blight. The plant disease was not exclusive to Ireland, but the forced dependency on the potato amplified starvation through taxation and suppression.

“The potato’s role as a stereotype of Irish food has obscured other valuable products,” writes McMahon. For example, the availability of freshwater fish, eels and access to drinking water led to early settlement of river regions. Seafood such as saltwater fish, oysters, lobster, squid, muscles, crabs and seaweed are in abundance. Cultivated and foraged produce such as artichokes, plums, asparagus, carrots, leeks, mushrooms, nuts and berries abound. Hare, wild venison and domesticated livestock such as chicken, sheep and cattle that were brought to Ireland by settlers and invaders over thousands of years also define Irish cuisine.

Irish Butter

Television viewers may have noticed a story-like commercial that has aired over the past few months. The star of the commercial is Kerrygold Pure Irish Butter. Historically, those living in cooler climates in northern Europe relied on butter to preserve fat, whereas those living in warmer, southern and Mediterranean climates, were blessed with plentiful sources of olive oil. 

Bread and Butter Pudding from The Irish Cookbook by JP McMahon. Slightly chewy and buttery, warm baking notes – provided by cinnamon and nutmeg – are a highlight of the custard. The golden raisins (sultanas) are tender and sweet, blending in with the bread pudding. I’d recommend doubling the custard in the recipe when using thick slices of bread. Also, store the butter (I used Kerrygold Pure Irish Butter, which is available in most grocery stores) at room temperature for easy spreading, holding an extra slice of bread while buttering to make the process less messy. Serve hot in a bowl with a splash of milk.

GET THE RECIPE

 

With ample rainfall, grass grows lush and tall in Ireland, providing food for milk-producing cattle. Irish butter, such as the aforementioned Kerrygold, is higher in milk fat. Clocking in at 82% milk fat – compared to the traditional 80% milk-fat content of butter produced in the U.S. – and containing less water, Irish butter has a higher concentration of flavor while offering a soft, creamy texture that spreads easily. In baking, fat content translates into flaky, airy textures found in the laminating process. A byproduct of butter-making is buttermilk, which is used in Irish soda bread, as well as meat marinades for poultry and wild game.

Irish butter is wonderful on morning toast. Serve it with breakfast tea, which offers higher concentrations of caffeine. Irish breakfast tea is particularly robust in flavor; adding milk to black tea mellows the intensity while adding a creamy texture.

Guinness

Of course, you can’t celebrate St. Patrick’s Day without a beverage. Guinness boasts a fascinating if not incredible history. Finding its start on the last day of the year in 1759, founder Arthur Guinness signed a 9,000-year lease on St. James’s Gate Brewery. Located at the site of a razed entrance through Dublin’s medieval wall, the monthly rent of £45 is still paid to the landowner. Historically, Guinness ale has been paired with seafood, especially oysters. 

Guinness Draught Stout, imported from St. James’s Gate in Dublin, Ireland. Nitrogen fills the hopped, sweet and bitter stout for a creamy mouthfeel. Founded in 1759, Guinness introduced its world-famous stout 200 years later in 1959.

Like the potato in the scope of Ireland’s history, the famed Guinness Stout is comparatively new, originating in 1959. Guinness’ variety is brewed with hops in addition to water, barley and yeast, adding a bitter note to the sweet, creamy flavor.

 Over winter, finding a case of Guinness in my garage isn’t uncommon, and the YouTube channel, Guinness Guru, is a favorite to watch while enjoying a pint. Based in Ireland, channel creator, Daragh Curran, visits pubs in Ireland, the U.K. and Europe, rating the quality and differences of individual pours of Guinness in notable, often centuries-old establishments. Guinness is brewed differently for various regions and the system of delivery varies at each storied pub. The “Guinness Guru Pint Map” showcases each of Curran’s ratings throughout Europe and the U.S.

As a note for those traveling to Ireland: a liquid pint in the U.S. is 16 ounces, whereas the Imperial equivalent is 20 ounces. Low in alcohol (4.2%) and with just 175 calories per 500 ml, the Guinness flavor is still creamy, toasty and bitter.

For more information, visit guinness.com and gurutv.ie/map1.  

Peterson Pipes

Tobacco pipes from Peterson of Dublin. Established in 1865, Peterson is “the oldest continuously operating pipe factory in the world.” Quintessentially Irish and laced with tradition, Peterson’s pipes are often enjoyed after a meal.

After preparing and savoring a hearty meal, it’s time to relax! Continuing with the theme of centuries-old establishments, one of my interests is Peterson Pipes. Started in 1865 as Kapp, it later became Kapp & Peterson, and eventually, Peterson. The company celebrates St. Patrick’s Day annually with a commemorative pipe, whose design is usually announced in February. I own a few, and joining Peterson pipe groups on social media has been enlightening, with members spanning the globe, many from Ireland. Through their conversations, I’ve learned that black tea or Guinness pairs with a pipe just as well (or better) than does a dram of whiskey. Oh, and don’t forget to include a toast to health with the Gaelic word, “sláinte” (pronounced SLAHN-cha). For more information, visit peterson.ie. 

Happy St. Patrick’s Day! And, don’t forget to plant your peas on March 17 for good luck in 2023. 

Lancaster County’s Irish Pubs
If you feel like celebrating at a local restaurant or watering hole, Lancaster is home to several Irish pubs. 

Annie Bailey’s Irish Public House, Lancaster, anniebaileys.com

Brendee’s Irish Pub, Lancaster, brendeesirishpub.com

O’Halloran’s Irish Pub & Eatery, Lancaster, ohallspublancpa.com 

McCleary’s Public House, Marietta, mcclearyspub.com

Tellus360, Lancaster, tellus360.com 

Time Marches On

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I’m probably among the few people who consider March to be one of their favorite months. I like it for the promise it holds – there’s a hint of spring in the air, plants are starting to pop, farmers are prepping their fields, lambs are being born, the March Madness basketball tournament begins and it will soon be time to change out my throw pillows, or better yet, buy some new ones. 

Yes, I’m one of those people who is obsessed with throw pillows. I have a large closet that is filled with them. Sometimes I’ll just go to HomeGoods or the Prussian Street Arcade and wander around the pillow displays. Wherever I travel, scoping out throw pillows is on the agenda. Even the internet is aware of my obsession … ads for pillows constantly pop up on my social media feeds. 

Two years ago, I hit the holy grail. I would be spending Fourth of July weekend in Charleston, South Carolina. My son, Charlie, asked if there was anything in particular I wanted to see or do while we were there. There was only one place I wanted to go – Sewing Down South. For those of you who don’t follow reality TV, Sewing Down South is owned by Craig Conover, who stars on Bravo’s Southern Charm. Craig, who is from Fenwick Island in Delaware, landed in Charleston to attend law school. He exorcized the stresses of studying for the bar by sitting at a sewing machine and making pillows. 

From Sewing Down South: Modern Polka Dots

Granted, his initial efforts were kind of sad; even the grand dame of the show, Patricia Altschul (whose house I found during last summer’s trip), poo-pooed them (maybe because she was in the process of launching her own line of pillows).

He also received pushback from his girlfriend at the time, Naomie, who was growing concerned that he seemed to be devoting more time to the sewing machine and less time to the books. It became obvious she was feeling trepidation at the prospect of marrying a guy who sews as opposed to one who practices law. Craig’s whiny tagline became, “What’s wrong with my sewing?” (You have to hear him say it to get the full effect.) Despite Patricia and Naomie’s dismissive attitudes, Craig thought his pillows had potential. And, so, he sewed on. 

At Sewing Down South on July 4, 2021.

Female fans of the show felt sorry for Craig and began asking if they could buy his handiwork. The growing demand for his pillows prompted Craig to launch a lucrative online business that constantly sold out of products. Two years ago, he opened a gorgeous store on King Street in Charleston. Since then, Sewing Down South’s signature fabrics appear not only on pillows, but on pet items, blankets/throws, towels, aprons, oven mitts and more. Craig has also expanded into apparel (including items with his signature saying on them) and home fragrances. He has partnered with Thomasville Furniture, HSN and Fred Meyer to create special pillow collections. Last summer, Sewing Down South pillows debuted at select HomeGoods stores. (Thus far, no dice in Lancaster … I keep my eyes open!) He also wrote a book, Pillow Talk. 

Prior to leaving for Charleston, I called, texted and emailed the store (numerous times) to make certain it would be open July 4. Late that afternoon, Charlie and I walked in and were like two kids in a candy store. It was the day Charlie experienced a genetic transference and became obsessed with pillows. It was as if lightning struck! It was a bummer Craig wasn’t there, but we didn’t care. We were in pillow heaven and had to touch everything. We made our selections and headed off to join family and watch the fireworks over Charleston Harbor. 

Craig Conover and his first collection for Thomasville Furniture. SDS IG photo.

A few months later, I was in North Carolina to spend Thanksgiving with Charlie and his wife, Jen. The sofa overflowed with pillows. One afternoon, I noticed a UPS truck in the driveway and asked Jen if she was expecting a delivery. “It’s probably one of Charlie’s @#$% pillows,” she responded. 

She was right. When he arrived home, he ripped into the box and proudly displayed a new addition to the Sewing Down South collection. When she questioned why he bought that particular pillow, he reported it was on sale plus who wouldn’t want a pillow with a palm tree wrapped in holiday lights for their very own? Jen says she is giving up on decorating and letting Charlie have full control. 

Last July, I was back in North Carolina. On our way to Bald Head Island, Charlie said we had to make a stop in Southport. He had found the most darling shop that carries pillows from a company called LuckyBird, which is based in Mississippi. Their pillows are genius! They are dotted with four strategically placed buttons onto which decorative “swaps” can be attached. There are hundreds – heck, maybe thousands – of possibilities. Of course, I had to have one. Thus far, I’ve ordered three swap attachments for it. 

A button/swap pillow from LuckyBird.

Then, in August, we went to the farmers/makers market that is held at the Avon Pier on Hatteras Island. We oohed and aahed over a maker’s coastal-inspired pillows. Naturally, we had to inspect and discuss each one. The maker just kind of stood and stared at us. “Is something wrong?” I asked. “No,” she replied. “I’ve just never met a guy who is so into pillows.” We bought several and told her to check out Sewing Down South’s website. 

Pure coastal! The King Crab Collection from Sewing Down South.

Last fall, I did two Best Kept Secrets tours with friends. Of course, I was on the lookout for pillows. I restrained myself but made notes in the tour booklet of shops I need to return to. Oh, and I’ve also been perusing LuckyBird’s website for spring swaps. I also bought a commemorative Poppy the Groundhog pillow (hey, it supports a good cause). 

A friend suggested that I buy a sewing machine and make my own pillows, but I have bad memories of home-ec class in high school. I was so lacking in sewing skills that I would sneak projects out so that one of my aunts could make them presentable. 

Besides, as Craig would probably say, “Sew what! It’s much more fun to shop!” 

— Suzanne Starling-Long

Eclectic Menu, Golf Course View: Blue Collar Restaurant, Bar & Catering

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Tucked into the manicured fairways and greens of Four Seasons Golf Club in East Hempfield Township, Blue Collar Restaurant, Bar & Catering features an adventurous menu and a fun, casual atmosphere.  

On the menu (clockwise from top left): Blue Collar Steak (7 oz. tenderloin topped with lump crab and bleu cheese and accompanied by vegetable medley and potatoes). Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich (fried chicken, lettuce, pickles and spicy mayo served on a sesame-seed bun). Poke Bowl (a vegan and gluten-free-friendly bowl comprised of mango, tomatoes, cucumber, edamame, quinoa, greens, sriracha aioli and wasabi sauce). The bar menu features a full complement of cocktails, spirits, wine, cider and beer.

Blue Collar, which is co-owned by Rob Billas and Kevin White, opened in July 2021. “The biggest thing here is that we have nice people serving really good food. A lot of our staff has been with us since we opened,” Rob says. He goes on to explain that the restaurant’s name and logo relate to his silver Labrador, Mack. “I have two dogs – one wears a pink collar and one wears a blue collar. Mack wears the blue collar. When we were brainstorming about names, we decided on Blue Collar, and Mack is our mascot,” he shares.

Co-owners Rob Billas (left) and Kevin White.

The two worked with Kevin’s father, architect Don White, to transform the former banquet area of the clubhouse into a 170-seat restaurant. By eliminating a dropped ceiling and several walls, they were able to create a light and airy open-concept space. Wainscoting and a blue-and-white color scheme create a modern farmhouse vibe. There’s a hint of industrial courtesy of the now-exposed ceiling. Expansive windows admit natural light and provide a view of the golf course. A large U-shaped bar was also added. A double-sided brick fireplace adds to the ambiance. 

Seating in the dining area is comprised of tables, booths, banquettes and a few high-tops. A portion of the dining area is located in an alcove, which Rob says is perfect for small groups. Two banquet rooms are available for larger groups (a special onsite catering menu is available). 

A double-sided fireplace provides space for socializing on one side and dining on the other.

Blue Collar’s menu is eclectic. “There are a lot of different flavors, so guests won’t get bored with it. Plus, it can appeal to nearly every taste,” Rob points out. The culinary adventure begins with appetizers such as Joe Malo’s quesadilla (filled with butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, bacon, cheddar and finished with a balsamic glaze) and spicy tuna sushi tots (avocado, cucumber, risotto cakes, sriracha aioli and wasabi sauce). In the category of Salads & Bowls, selections include poke and quinoa power bowls, as well as Thai steak tips and Caesar salads. 

Blue Collar’s smash burgers – 4 oz. hand-pressed beef patties served on sesame-seed buns – have become customer favorites, particularly the Kevin burger, which is topped with peanut butter, bacon jam and jalapeños. “It may sound odd to top a burger with peanut butter, but it goes with the other toppings and is really good,” Rob says. 

The former banquet area at Four Seasons was redesigned to create the open-concept restaurant that features views of the golf course.

In the realm of entrées, the selection ranges from jambalaya (with shrimp, chicken and andouille) to shrimp & crab Mack n’ cheese, steak dishes and chicken marsala.  

Vegetarian options include starters like crispy Brussels sprouts (with spicy miso honey drizzle and optional bacon) to salads such as nuts and berries and roasted beets (the latter two are also gluten-free). As for entrées, the vegan jambalaya is also gluten-free. 

Blue Collar’s French onion soup is prepared using a recipe developed by Tim, one of the restaurant’s cooks. 

A special lighter-fare lunch menu featuring smaller portions of regular menu items is available from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday through Friday. There are also daily food specials – Tuesday is wings, Wednesday is nachos and Thursday is rooster fries – all for $9 each. There’s a special kid’s menu, as well.  

A beer cooler is stocked with a wide variety of craft beer, including Mack’s Blue Collar, a New England IPA crafted by Levante Brewing Co. in West Chester.

Blue Collar’s regular menu changes seasonally and there are special additions for holiday events such as Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. Special wine-tasting events feature five food courses and wine pairings. One held in late January featured an Italian theme. (Check the restaurant’s website and social media for upcoming events.)

Blue Collar offers a variety of cocktails, premium spirits, craft brews, ciders and wine by the glass. There’s even a signature craft brew – Mack’s Blue Collar, a New England IPA crafted by Levante Brewing Co. in West Chester. 

Blue Collar Restaurant, Bar & Catering is located at Four Seasons Golf Club, 949 Church Street, Landisville. Hours are Tuesday through Thursday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m.- midnight, and Sunday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Reservations are accepted and can be made online via Blue Collar’s website or by calling the restaurant. Take-out is available, as is onsite catering. For more information, call 717-537-2107 or visit bluecollarlanc.com and on Facebook and Instagram.

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