Susquehanna Style November 2021

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As Lancaster’s most trusted health system for generations, we never stop working to deliver care far beyond our doors by teaming with equally dedicated partners to improve lives, here in the place we call home.

Learn more about our community initiatives at CaringForLancaster.org

CONTENTS

DEPARTMENTS

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TALK OF THE TOWN Our favorite things about featured town, Bedford

november VOL 27 | ISSUE 10

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SHOP IN STYLE

Step it up with a few fall footwear favorites

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PEOPLE & PLACES

An inside look at how Nourish Salon is transforming self care for all

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LIVE WELL

Practical preventative tips in honor of National Diabetes Awareness month

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FOODIE FINDS

Inside the kitchen at Cafe 301

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DISH IT UP

Thanksgiving shake ups from Lancaster Local Provisions’ Chef Diana Smedley

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5 THINGS

Local nonprofits benefiting and empowering women

FEATURES

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WOMEN OF STRENGTH

A look at our 2021 Women of Strength and how they are driving change

ON THE COVER

A few of this year's readernominated Women of Strength.

Photography by Karlo Gesner

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SUSQUEHANNA STYLE | NOVEMBER 2021

M Y L A G O S M Y W AY

C AV I A R C O L L E C T I O N S

NOVEMBER 2021 | SUSQUEHANNA STYLE

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PUBLISHER'S LETTER

PRESIDENT/CEO Paul Prass VICE PRESIDENT/COO Lisa Prass ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Samantha Quisgard DIRECTOR OF CREATIVE SERVICES Erica Montes ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES Sue Otteinheimer, Sherry Smith GRAPHIC DESIGNER Madison Eckert MARKETING & EVENTS COORDINATOR Marianna Torres INTERN Lindsay Garbacik CONTRIBUTORS Rachel Curry, Karen Hendricks, Diane McCormick PHOTOGRAPHERS Karlo Gesner PROOFREADER Kate Pistone ACCOUNTING

Women of Strength Strength—it’s a word with so many different meanings, and I could not think of a better descriptor for the women featured in this month’s Women’s Edition. The business owners, leaders, and influencers highlighted in this issue are truly unique, amazing changemakers inspiring us all to continue to reach higher and do better. As a woman leading a fully female team myself, it’s women like these and their stories that energize me every day.

themselves to others—their jobs, their families, their friends, and more—so this event is for each and every one of them to take a night for themselves. It's a night of networking and meeting new women filled with food, drinks, shopping, fashion, inspiration, and more.

This November also marks our first Women’s Edition in two years, where we are able to welcome back our annual Celebrate Women event in person on November 18 at the Cork Factory in Lancaster. So many women give all of

Hope to see you on November 18th!

We hope this issue inspires, empowers, and builds the strength that already exists in each and every one of our readers.

Head to susquehannastyle.com/celebrate/ celebrate-women to get your tickets for this year’s Celebrate Women event.

Donna Bachman, Sarah Varano CIRCULATION MANAGER Andrea Karges

CONTACT US: Editorial: Send your compliments, comments, story ideas, and suggestions to: Editor, Susquehanna Style, 202 Butler Avenue, Suite 102, Lancaster, PA 17601; or squisgard@susquehannastyle.com.

Subscriptions and Backorders: For new subscriptions, changes of address, or questions about an existing subscription, call 800-896-1392, Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m., EST. Annual subscriptions (11 issues/year) are $12. Postmaster please send returns to: Susquehanna Style, P.O. Box 2548, Orlando, FL 32802.

Advertising: To request a media kit or to receive other information on advertising, call 717-581-6550, fax 1-717-581-6552, or visit www.SusquehannaStyle.com.

Staff directory at www.SusquehannaStyle.com or call 717-581-6550.

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH:

SAMANTHA QUISGARD Associate Publisher | squisgard@susquehannastyle.com

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SUSQUEHANNA STYLE | NOVEMBER 2021

@susquehannastyle

© 2021

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NOVEMBER 2021 | SUSQUEHANNA STYLE

5

WHAT'S ONLINE?

SUSQUEHANNASTYLE.COM SEASONAL DECOR 101

The experts from Ville + Rue have some tips to help you decorate your home for the entire winter season.

12 DAYS OF HOLIDAY GIFTING

Fountain Avenue Kitchen’s Ann Fulton is here to take your homemade holiday gifts to the next level.

ACHIEVING EMPOWERMENT THROUGH MONEY MINDSET

Financial tips and tricks to take control of your life from Holly Mann of Fresh Habits.

HOW TO SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE & BE HAPPY

De-stress and get back to basics just in time for the holidays with this guide from Josie D. of The Cheetah Buzz.

BRIGHTEN YOUR DAY IN A SUBARU

LancasterCountySubaru.com 6

SUSQUEHANNA STYLE | NOVEMBER 2021

LIFESTYLE

PHOTOS COURTESY OF OMNI BEDFORD SPRINGS RESORT

Lifestyle Opener

TALK OF THE TOWN

Your itinerary for a trip to Bedford, PA including the must-visit Omni Bedford Springs Resort.

Read more on page 8.

NOVEMBER 2021 | SUSQUEHANNA STYLE

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF OMNI BEDFORD SPRINGS RESORT, SOUTHERN ALLEGHENIES MUSEUM OF ART, HEBREWS COFFEE COMPANY

TALK OF THE TOWN

LIFESTYLE

BY LINDSAY GARBACIK

Bedford

Known for its medicinal hot springs, Bedford’s relaxed town atmosphere is a spa lover’s dream destination. With artisan coffees, teas, wines, and a bevy of places to relax and unwind, this is a fabulous spot for a day trip with your girlfriends or a fun family adventure.

OAK SPRING WINERY BEDFORD

SPRINGS ETERNAL SPA AT THE OMNI BEDFORD SPRINGS RESORT

Home to the largest wine tasting room in Pennsylvania, this winery makes for a perfect girl’s trip or date night. There are guided tasting events to educate customers about the process of wine making. With four acres of vineyards, tours and tastings are available, along with a number of fun weekly events like Friday Wine Downs and Wine and Paint Nights. The vineyard has white, red, and holiday wines available and ships out about 6,500 cases of wine annually.

With a world-class Springs Eternal Spa and relaxing indoor and outdoor pools, it’s no wonder Bedford is known as a spa capital. There are 30,000 square feet of historic ‘Bedford Baths’ on the property that feature aromatic steam, a mineral deluge, and ends with a cool plunge that relaxes your muscles and leaves you feeling rejuvenated. Additionally, there is a restored 18 hole golf course and a selection of excellent wedding venues on the property. What’s harder, choosing a spa treatment or removing yourself from this resort?

2401 E Pleasant Valley Blvd, Altoona, PA facebook.com/OSWBedford

2138 Business, 220, Bedford, PA omnihotels.com/hotels/bedford-springs

SOUTHERN ALLEGHENIES MUSEUM OF ART BEDFORD This community art museum is a great way to spend an afternoon and see art from current local artists. If you've had your fill of one museum, there are four other branches in the system that carry similar artworks from the Alleghenies located in Altoona, Johnstown, Ligonier, and Loretto. The museums share a permanent collection of more than 7,500 works made by artists from the community and around the world. The museums also have an excellent education program, making them an educational and exciting place to bring kids.

137 E Pitt St, Bedford, PA sama-art.org

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SUSQUEHANNA STYLE | NOVEMBER 2021

EVERYTHING TEA Cozy up with a fresh cup of tea from Everything Tea’s extensive collection of teas from around the world. With over 140 fresh, high quality loose teas and accessories, there is always a new tea to try. If you really love tea, join the Teas of the Month Club, and always have a new tea to try. The shop is also located conveniently next to Yarn Knitch, so you can stock up on fresh tea and knitting supplies for your next cozy night in.

111 W Pitt St, Bedford, PA everythingtea.webs.com

5078 Jonestown Road Harrisburg, PA 17112 717.233.2955 53 North York Street Mechanicsburg, PA 17055

is now

717.766.4741 www.davidsinteriors.com

10/09 KITCHEN Featuring New American cuisine made from the freshest ingredients and menu by acclaimed chef Nick Letzo, this is a delicious place for an upscale dinner. This classy spot is open Tuesday through Sunday starting at 5 p.m. and is open for lunch as Nick’s Sandwich Company. The restaurant began as a new partnership with Dalesmen Distillery and Brewery in Historic Bethlehem in the fall of 2020.

There is a generous selection of beers, wines, and signature cocktails for this adults-only geared environment.

132 E Pitt St, Bedford, PA 1009kitchen.com

While our name and look has changed one thing has not-our commitment to our David’s family.

We are committed as ever to provide first-rate customer service while helping each customer navigate through the design process so they can feel confident knowing they will be taken care of and their finshed rooms will be breathtaking.

Stop in and see the David’s Difference for yourself!

Nov_Sus Style_2021.indd 1

9/27/21 12:46 PM

HEBREWS COFFEE COMPANY Using fresh Latin Blend coffee brewed from the two best coffee beans in Latin America, HeBrews creates beverages with a taste and freshness unmatched by any other coffee shop. However, there is more to the shop than just coffee.

There are also cappuccinos, lattes, mochas, tea, smoothies, and baked goods at this cute local coffee shop that are sure to leave your mouth watering for more. What better way to start the day than with a perfectly ground cup of coffee?

103 S Richard St, Bedford, PA facebook.com/HeBrews-Coffee-Company NOVEMBER 2021 | SUSQUEHANNA STYLE

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SHOP IN STYLE

LIFESTYLE

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SUSQUEHANNA STYLE | NOVEMBER 2021

T.S. DOBBINS tsdobbins.com

1. Eros Western Block Heel in Grey, $139 2. Sante Fe Ankle Boot in New Red, $139.99

PAPPAGALLO pappagallolancaster.com

3. Jeffrey Campbell Black Matte Snakeskin Loafer, $140 4. Sanctuary Black Honey Heels, $119

THREE LITTLE BIRDS BOUTIQUE tlbboutique.com

5. Shu Shop Agnetta Cow Print Mule, $88 6. Matisse Mon Amie Oxford Shoe in Natural, $124

PLUM BOTTOM SHOES plumbottom.net

7. Dolce Vita Heeled Boots in Dune Suede, $140 8. Eric Michael in Cognac Croc, $165 PHOTOGRAPHY BY KARLO GESNER

GOOD FOOD FOR EVERYONE! Local, gourmet, artisanal cheeses

Homemade accompaniments and crackers Signature 3 year old aged sharp cheese Handcrafted cutting boards and woven baskets Business & corporate gift programs Goot Essa Cheese subscription

gootessacheese.com

800-490-4387

SHIPPING TO ALL 50 STATES! NOVEMBER 2021 | SUSQUEHANNA STYLE

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PEOPLE & PLACES

LIFESTYLE

You've Got to Nourish to Grow How Nourish Salon of Lancaster is practicing radical self care for all

BY RACHEL CURRY PHOTOGRAPHY BY KARLO GESNER

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SUSQUEHANNA STYLE | NOVEMBER 2021

Meanwhile, Markiana is working on new treatments to add to her repertoire, which already consists of organic hair mask and scalp detox treatments, non-toxic keratin treatments, and coloring from fume-free, vegan dyes. To become more entwined with her craft, she's learning how to source and create her own products, too.

At the end of the day, Markiana knows that nourishment doesn't happen on its own. With all the ways we must care for ourselves—our skin, our food, our work-life balance, just to name a few—Nourish aims to simplify the process for one very important part of a woman's life: her hair. For Lancastrians, it's a gift that women of every creed and color get the opportunity to care for their hair the Nourish way.

Self care can be hard work, but Nourish Salon & Blow Dry Suite in Lancaster simplifies the process—at least when it comes to hair.

Markiana Polite started the salon as a way to care for herself and others, regardless of ethnicity, culture, or hair texture. Plus, it was a way for Markiana to put her long-held gift to work: caring for and styling all hair types.

Markiana started in the world of hair care at a young age. She spent 13 years in salons and found they often catered to a more honed clientele.

"There wasn't an acceptance from most of those salons for people of various cultures.

It was just either one or the other," she says.

Markiana, an African American and Latina woman, had the idea for a cross-cultural salon bouncing in her head for seven years before she decided to bring it to fruition.

In that time, Markiana's two kids got a little bit older, her work got a little bit more strenuous, and she found she was juggling more than felt right. As she was going to school at Lancaster Bible College and studying to be a social worker in hospitals—just four classes away from earning her BA—the perfect storm of life events caused her to pivot.

"I needed time to just stop and think," she says.

"Going to school full time, working a full-time job, and being the mom of two very strongwilled teenagers was just pulling me in too many directions."

Today, she has successfully built a salon that fuels her rather than causing burnout. Yes, that means setting boundaries for herself, like only accepting women ages 13 and up as clients. But it also means creating a destination she knows serves as a safe space for the women who choose to visit.

The clients she serves can bring their full selves in and feel comfortable.

Right now, Markiana is the only stylist at Nourish, making the environment a true extension of herself—but she's open to expanding her team. Like the rest of her salon, she wants that expansion to happen organically. Markiana won't hire someone just to hire them, but she's open to connecting with "nourishers," as she calls them, or people who are about the Nourish lifestyle. For Markiana, that lifestyle is holistic, organic, open, and inclusive; it's giving people the opportunity to come as they are, and letting yourself do the same.

Nourish Salon & Blow Dry Suite 128 E Grant St, Suite 301 Lancaster, PA 17602 nourishsalonpa.com

As Markiana looks back at her journey leading up to Nourish, she realizes the salon has helped her understand all the ways she's changed and what she's learned.

"Now more than ever, I am learning to pause, to rest, and to stick to healthy boundaries," she says, reflecting on the years of burnout she dealt with before making the bold choice to start Nourish. With that rest, she has been able to develop novel ways to increase her footprint in her community.

Markiana is a licensed cosmetology instructor and a natural teacher. Inspired by young teens coming into the salon, Markiana decided to start hosting curly hair care sessions for parents and children. She says the intention for these classes is to extend that care you get into the salon at home, so parents can help their kids foster healthy, natural hair that they're proud of as they get older.

"I need to teach parents that hair grows. You just have to maintain that growth," Markiana says, adding that it's especially important for young ethnic children with thick, curly hair.

NOVEMBER 2021 | SUSQUEHANNA STYLE

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GOOD

GOOD

GOOD

music. food. friends.

It’s the recipe for a perfect evening. Lombardo’s is a destination for enjoying live music, signature cocktails, and the savory flavors of fresh-made, authentic Italian dishes cooked with love.

lunch Tuesday to Saturday 11–2:30pm dinner Tuesday to Thursday 4–9:30pm Friday and Saturday 4–10pm

Visit lombardosrestaurant.com or call 717.394.3749 for reservations 216 Harrisburg Avenue, Lancaster, PA 17603

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SUSQUEHANNA STYLE | NOVEMBER 2021

Diabetes Prevention

LIVE WELL

LIFESTYLE

BY SAMANTHA QUISGARD

34.2 million—that’s the number of adults in the US who have diabetes and according to the CDC, and 1 in 5 of those Americans don’t even know they have it. November marks National Diabetes Awareness Month, so we talked to UPMC’s Vice President of Chronic Disease Management Population Health and Division Chief of Endocrinology, Dr. Renu Joshi, to take a deeper look at some practical preventative tips.

START IN THE KITCHEN Like many elements pertaining to our health, our eating habits can play a large role in Type 2 diabetes prevention. “​​The data from diabetes prevention trials indicate that a variety of eating patterns are appropriate for preventing diabetes,” says Dr. Joshi. “The goal of 7% weight loss is very important to prevent diabetes. That can be accomplished by many different kinds of diets. This includes a low carb diet, Mediterranean diet, intermittent fasting, plant-based diet, and many others.” According to Dr. Joshi, a good balanced diet of 50-55% carbs, 20-25% fat, and 20-30% protein will work as a guideline, but it’s important to remember that each body is different, and you may need further personalization. When adding a weight loss component, consider your overall caloric intake, and start modifying by subtracting 500 calories per day.

WATCH THE SCALES Part of preventing diabetes is understanding the effects it has on your body. “Type 2 diabetes causes blood glucose (or sugar) levels to rise higher than normal,” says Dr. Joshi. “If you have Type 2 diabetes, your body does not use insulin properly, in a condition called “insulin resistance.” Insulin resistance increases directly with weight gain. Hence why obesity is a major risk factor for developing diabetes. Therefore, it makes sense that losing weight can either reduce your chances of getting Type 2 diabetes or help you keep it in control.”

CATCH SOME ZZZ’S AND ZEN Dr. Joshi indicates, “People who get less than seven hours of sleep a night have higher rates of diabetes, heart disease, and obesity. Lack of sleep can lead to more inflammation in your body and change how your body handles glucose, which contributes to Type 2 diabetes.” In addition to lack of sleep, too high of stress levels can increase your risk, making it crucial to find a balance.

GET MOVING Data suggests that 150 minutes of exercise per week can help lower your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Not only can exercise help maintain a healthy weight, but it also helps control your blood sugar, lowers blood pressure and cholesterol, reduces your risk of blood heart disease and stroke, and relieves stress and eases signs of depression—all contributing to a lower risk of diabetes.

UNDERSTAND YOUR PERSONAL RISK FACTORS

KNOW THE SYMPTOMS AND MONITOR YOUR HEALTH Prediabetes presents no symptoms; however, some common symptoms of diabetes include: blurry vision, cuts or sores that don’t heal, extreme fatigue, frequent urination, increased appetite and thirst, numbness or tingling in the hands or feet, and weight loss. When it comes to monitoring, Dr. Joshi says the best way to learn if you have prediabetes is through a blood glucose test which measures your blood’s glucose levels.

Should your results indicate prediabetes, your doctor will work with you on a diet and exercise program and follow up with another round of glucose testing in six months.

Resources: UPMC Health Plan offers members one-onone support to prevent prediabetes or manage diabetes. UPMC Health Plan members can call 1-866-778-6073 Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. to speak with a health coach or log in to UPMC MyHealth Online.

Harrisburg Area YMCA’s also offer a Diabetes Prevention Program. To learn more, visit: ymcaharrisburg.org/locations/ymca-centerhealthy-living/programs or call 717-232-2004.

While there are several diabetes risk factors that can be controlled or lowered through habitual life changes, some factors such as race, age, family history, and other health issues can directly affect your risk of developing diabetes. According to Dr. Joshi, you may have a higher chance of developing Type 2 diabetes if you: are 45 or older, are Black, Hispanic, Asian, Pacific Islander, or Native American, have a family history of diabetes, have a history of gestational diabetes, have high blood pressure, high triglycerides and/or low HDL cholesterol, or have a history of polycystic ovarian syndrome, stroke, or heart disease.

NOVEMBER 2021 | SUSQUEHANNA STYLE

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‘TIS THE SEASON FOR

seasonal flavor

Book your Private Holiday Event with Harvest & celebrate with our local Farm-to-Table Menu.

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THE SHOPPES AT BELMONT 1573 FRUITVILLE PIKE // LANCASTER, PA THE SHOPPES AT SUSQUEHANNA MARKETPLACE 2625 BRINDLE DRIVE // HARRISBURG, PA

EAT & DRINK

INSIDE THE KITCHEN WITH CAFE 301

From chicken and waffles to soul rolls to shrimp and grits, Cafe 301 is bringing a new flavor to Columbia.

Explore more on page 18.

NOVEMBER 2021 | SUSQUEHANNA STYLE

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EAT & DRINK

FOODIE FINDS

Laurie Myers handed in her two weeks’ notice.

She loved her job supporting children with disabilities, but her dream of a life in food was knocking.

“At that point, doors were flying open,” she says. “I didn’t look back.”

Today, Myers is the founder, owner, and president of Café 301. In the square of Columbia, PA, the restaurant stands as testament to letting go of fear and believing in your talents.

Growing up, Myers gravitated to the kitchen of her aunt, whose weekday meals were as elaborate as Sunday dinners.

“I didn’t go to school for this,” she says. “I feel we all have our gifts and talents, and this is definitely one of mine.”

But cooking wasn’t her profession until she heard a conference speaker say that something is birthed inside of each of us, and trusting in God brings it out.

“I knew that fear was holding me in,” she says.

“I knew if I didn’t trust what was inside me, I would always be living in fear.”

The journey began with courses and a women’s learning circle from Assets, the Lancaster-based nonprofit creating economic opportunity for social good. Her catering business launched in 2016. Early in the journey, someone asked her to cater a meal for 300 people.

“Maybe 100,” she told him. “300? No way.

You’re crazy.”

Love and Southern-style cooking: Café 301 brings community to the heart of Columbia

BY M. DIANE MCCORMICK PHOTOGRAPHY BY KARLO GESNER

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Of course, she said yes. She has a photo of herself with all that food—collard greens, roast beef, chicken, yams, roasted potatoes, green beans.

“They called me back three times,” she says.

Myers, a native of Lancaster, wanted to get started in a small town, away from the rush of a larger city. Another chef woman entrepreneur suggested the Columbia Market, and Myers was wowed by the Lancaster County town’s architecture and character.

She set up a stand in the market, and that’s when another door opened. Columbia-based real estate investor Don Murphy, of Cimarron Investments, offered to rehabilitate the former Jack Horner Shoe Store in the heart of downtown. When the call came, “Every hair on my body stood up,” she says.

She told Murphy, “Okay, let’s see the property.

Let’s meet. Let’s talk. Let’s hear my idea.”

chicken sandwiched in the biscuit, and a drizzle of honey on top.

Eighteen months later, in October 2018, Café 301 opened its doors. Myers owns and manages the building and the business.

“I like food that is textured, savory, and sweet,” Myers says. “I like people to say, ‘What’s next?’

There was expertly prepared coffee, fresh from Lancaster-based Square One Coffee.

And there were Myers’ soul rolls, “my MVP, my most valuable product.” Her signature creation is a kind of egg roll stuffed with collard greens, rice, and chicken barbecue. The chorizo sausage, egg, and caramelized onion soul roll is equally popular.

Inside the café, sun streams through plate glass windows that were once bricked over.

Guests sit at counters or tables, or lounge on the sofa while children play. A front-window high-top affords a 360-degree view of people coming and going amid Columbia’s historic architecture.

“Ultimately I wanted a place to call home for those in the community and the surrounding area,” Myers says. “Everyone is welcome to the table and surrounded by the love of my group.”

Myers’ love for travel, and a touch of her Lancaster upbringing, inspired the menu.

Fried chicken and waffles topped with hot sauce, with syrup on the side. Shrimp and grits. Fried green tomato sandwich on a house-made biscuit, loaded with caramelized onions, spinach, and fried egg. Chicken strips or grilled cheese for kids. House-made lemon pound cake for dessert.

Twice-monthly Sunday brunch brings sausage gravy that’s “a little bit different,” with fried

The pandemic closed the café for three weeks, but Myers wouldn’t let the doors close forever.

She queried her staff (“They’re phenomenal”) for ideas. They offered a takeout and curbside menu. Part of the proceeds from sales of t-shirts were donated to Assets, which had provided Myers with a grant so that others can receive the same kind of help.

“It worked,” says Myers. “The community really stepped up and helped.”

As for the future, Myers sometimes catches herself writing “Café 302,” and she thinks, “Lord, you’re funny,” but a second location or food truck is possible. Myers is proud to be a Black woman business owner, hopefully setting an example for her young staff and her 3-yearold grandson, the one who “rules this café” on his visits and talks to guests, just like his grandmother.

In the meantime, Café 301 welcomes locals and tourists, regulars and new faces. Southern visitors have been known to taste the food and ask, “Whose grandmom is in that kitchen?”

Staff say they feel like family.

“That’s what creates Café 301,” Myers says. “It’s community. It’s family. It’s love.”

Café 301 301 Locust St, Columbia, PA 17512 717-992-4148 Cafe301.net NOVEMBER 2021 | SUSQUEHANNA STYLE

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DISH IT UP

EAT & DRINK

Thanksgiving Twists

RECIPES AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY DIANA SMEDLEY

Roasted Squash & Mushroom Farrotto serves 4 as main dish, 8 as a side *Plant-Based Recipe A unique twist on risotto using farro instead of rice. Smashed roasted squash adds a flavorful creaminess, but you can use pureed beets or greens to alter the recipe. This is an easy show stopper for a plant-based Thanksgiving!

2 cups of farro or brown rice 1 small onion, diced small 3 cloves of garlic, diced O il (I prefer sunflower oil from Susquehanna Mills Co.) 4-6 cups of veggie & mushroom stock made

by Crowded Foods ½ cup of sherry or port made by Deerfoot Vineyards & Winery 1 Tbsp Garden Citrus Blend made by Calicutts Spice Co. Salt & Pepper 2 cups diced winter squash 8 oz Mushrooms (Shiitake & Maitake are my picks) Optional ingredients: 4 small winter squash for serving the risotto 8 oz goat cheese from Linden Dale Farm 1. Preheat oven to 425° F. 2. If you want to serve the risotto in roasted squashes, cut them in half lengthwise, and cut a flat side on the bottoms of the halves so they don’t move around when filled. Scoop out the seeds, sprinkle with oil, salt & pepper, and place with the cut side down on a baking sheet. Bake for about 25 minutes until tender.

I’m using both delicata and honeynut squash for this recipe.

Meet Chef Diana Smedley, your guide to seasonal cooking in Lancaster County.

Chef Diana gets it, life is busy! She’s here to help parents, home cooks, and aspiring vegetable lovers by making it easy to enjoy healthy, local food.

Chef Diana is the co-founder of Lancaster Local Provisions (LLP), a farm-fresh food delivery service based in Lititz, PA. Every week, she curates Farm Share Boxes with seasonal recipes in mind. All of the sustainably grown, local fruits and veggies work together in the kitchen; and members of Lancaster Local Provisions receive simple recipes every week.

Check out all of Chef Diana’s fabulous, seasonal recipes at chefdianaskitchen.com.

Scan the QR code to shop products used in these recipes and more!

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3. Toss the diced squash & sliced mushrooms with oil and salt & pepper.

4. Place squash and mushrooms on the same baking sheet, but keep them separate.

5. Bake for about 20-25 minutes until golden. Mash the squash and set the mushrooms aside.

6. Meanwhile, in a large Dutch oven or pot, put a glug of oil and over medium heat, cook onion and garlic until translucent, about 3 mins.

7. Add in farro, and toast for 2 minutes. Start adding in your stock, a ½ cup at a time.

Stir occasionally.

8. Once liquid is absorbed by the farro, add more stock. Half way through cooking, add in the port wine.

Sweet & Spicy Smashed Sweet Potatoes *Plant-Based Recipe No one will be missing marshmallows this year!

These Sweet & Spicy Smashed Sweet Potatoes are crunchy and beyond delicious. Also, potato skins are packed with nutrients. When they get all crispy, you’ll want to eat them!

2 lbs sweet potatoes, leave the skin on ¼ cup sunflower oil plus more for baking sheet from Susquehanna Mills Co. 2 cloves of garlic, made into paste ½ Tbsp Chipotle & Honey Spice Blend made by Calicutts Spice Co. 2 Tbsp Imperial York Apple Vinegar from Keep Well Vinegar Salt & Pepper ¼ tsp local honey 1. Heat oven to 425 F. 2. Slice the potatoes into ½ inch rounds. Keep the skins on until they get crispy, and keep the rounds together during smashing.

3. In a large pot, cover the spuds with 2 inches of cold water, and salt generously.

4. Once at a boil, cook them for about 10 minutes until fork tender but not falling apart.

5. W hile the potatoes are boiling, whisk the rest of the ingredients into a dressing.

6. Drain and transfer potatoes to an oiled baking sheet.

7. Using the bottom of a glass or a fork, gently smash each piece.

8. Use half of the dressing and spoon over the rounds.

9. Bake for 10 minutes. Then flip all the pieces, spoon the rest of the dressing, and bake for another 10-15 minutes until extra crispy!

NOVEMBER 2021 | SUSQUEHANNA STYLE

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DISH IT UP

EAT & DRINK

Salty Maple Pie Bars Makes 16 bars (Should be made the day before serving) *Vegetarian Recipe This recipe is for those cooks who are timid about baking a pie. It’s essentially a shortbread cookie crust with a custard mixture poured over and baked as a slab pie. Slicing it into triangles makes it look extra fancy.

For the Shortbread Crust: 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (I like Small Valley Milling) ½ cup confectioners/powdered sugar ¾ tsp fine sea salt ¾ cup butter, room temperature ½ tsp Autumn Harvest Blend made by Calicutts Spic Co. For the Filling: ½ cup plus 2 Tbsp butter, melted & cooled 1 c up Dark, Grade A maple syrup made by Patterson Farms ¾ cup packed light brown sugar ¼ c up yellow cornmeal from Castle Valley Mill ¼ tsp fine sea salt

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3 whole eggs plus 1 yolk, at room temperature ¾ cup local heavy cream 1 tsp vanilla extract ½ tsp Autumn Harvest Blend made by Calicutts Spic Co. Flaky or coarse sea salt, for sprinkling on top 1. Preheat oven to 350 F. 2. First make the crust: combine dry ingredients, then pinch in the butter with your hands until it becomes a sand-like texture. When you can form a ball with the mixture, it’s ready.

3. Press into the bottom of a 9 x 13 inch baking pan in an even layer.

4. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the edges just begin to brown.

5. Cool slightly on a rack. Lower oven temp to 325 F.

6. Using an electric mixer with a whisk attachment, whisk the melted butter and maple syrup together for two minutes.

7. W hisk in the brown sugar, cornmeal, salt, and Autumn Harvest blend.

8. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, yolk, and cream together. Slowly pour that mixture into the maple batter. Whisk until just combined.

9. Pour the filling on top of the balked crust, and bake at 325 F for 35-40 minutes, until the edges are puffed and the center jiggles slightly. It will firm up as it cools.

10. Let cool completely, then cover and place in the fridge to chill for 4 hours.

11. Sprinkle with coarse salt and cut into fancy triangles. * These bars can be stored at room temperature for 3 days.

GIFTING DONE BEAUTIFULLY

a new, hilarious end-of-the-world

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primatheatre.org NOVEMBER 2021 | SUSQUEHANNA STYLE

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2021-2022 SEASON CONCERTS

AN EVENING WITH LEO KOTTKE & MIKE GORDON

FAMILY

SONIA DE LOS SANTOS

Friday, December 17

Sensory-Inclusive Presentation Sunday, April 3

BIG BAD VOODOO DADDY’S WILD AND SWINGIN’ HOLIDAY PARTY

UNDERWATER BUBBLE SHOW Thursday, April 21

Saturday, December 18

MADAGASCAR THE MUSICAL

GORDON LIGHTFOOT

Saturday, May 14

Wednesday, February 9

COMEDY

THE LIFE AND MUSIC OF GEORGE MICHAEL Saturday, February 26

PAULA POUNDSTONE Friday, December 3

BROADWAY’S NEXT HIT MUSICAL Friday, January 28

SON VOLT

Thursday, March 3

START MAKING SENSE: A TALKING HEADS TRIBUTE

BROADWAY GLATFELTER INSURANCE BROADWAY SERIES

RENT - 25TH ANNIVERSARY FAREWELL TOUR

Saturday, March 5

Wednesday, February 2

LOS CHICOS DEL 512: THE SELENA EXPERIENCE

GLATFELTER INSURANCE BROADWAY SERIES

WAITRESS

Saturday, April 16

Wednesday, April 13

THE MACHINE PERFORMS PINK FLOYD

This holiday season, give the gift of Membership to the Appell Center!

Friday, April 22

THE FITZGERALDS Friday, April 29

Ticket pre-sales, monthly discounts, exclusive access and more!

Membership helps bring world-class entertainment to our stages and ensures that we remain a vital economic driver in the community.

For information about membership, call 717-825-2236 or e-mail ksoderberg@appellcenter.org.

CORINNE BAILEY RAE Friday, June 17

BIG BAD VOODOO DADDY

LEO KOTTKE AND MIKE GORDON

SUSQUEHANNA STYLE | NOVEMBER 2021

RENT - 25TH ANNIVERSARY FAREWELL TOUR

photo: Amy Boyle 2019

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photo: Jeremy Daniel

WAITRESS

UNDERWATER BUBBLE SHOW

SUPER WOMEN OUR 2021 WOMEN OF STRENGTH

BY KAREN HENDRICKS

SURPRISED, HUMBLED, HONORED. Those are the words our six Women of Strength used to describe their reactions, upon hearing they’d been nominated for our 2021 recognition. And isn’t that the true mark of community leaders? They are often so focused on the greater good that their humble view on the world doesn’t see the super hero cape around their own shoulders. But thankfully, community members, colleagues, and friends see those capes every day—and made us aware of their super hero status. We are the ones who are surprised, humbled, and honored to present their stories.

WHEN ABBY HOY landed her first job—the day after graduating from college, “Something that never happens, right?,” she admits with a laugh—she immediately needed a business casual wardrobe.

“I didn’t own a dress—just black pants and v-necks,” she says. “I had about $90 to my name, so I bought a bunch of pieces to mix and match.”

She started gleaning clearance racks and thrift stores, then she discovered dress swaps. The community theatre where she worked had dancestudio style mirrors, so she started taking pictures of her outfits every day and posting them online.

That was about eight years ago. Today, Hoy’s messages are resounding more than ever with her 91k+ Instagram followers and a TikTok audience of 36k+.

“It started with being fatpositive,” says Hoy, 29, who goes by the handle Penny Darling, based upon a pseudonym she dreamed up back in middle school.

“But now, I’m trying to shift away from fashion. I advocate for body-positivity, fat-positivity, and mental health—all three,” Hoy says.

There’s also a dash of the theatrical. Well, maybe more than a dash.

“I have a vibrant personality … I like to say I exist loudly.

And everything good that’s happened to me,

has happened through the theatre,” says Hoy. “I met my husband while doing a show. We were engaged at a theatre, and married at a theatre.”

Hoy, who grew up in Reading, now calls Harrisburg home with husband Preston. And you might call him Penny Darling’s best supporting actor. Not only does he play a starring role in many of her photos and posts, but he’s often the one behind the camera.

This plus-sized social media darling is also on the brink of becoming a published author. Hoy’s first book, Yes, You Can Wear That is coming out this fall via publishing giant Simon & Schuster.

The title comes from conversations Hoy frequently has with her mother.

“Fat women often feel limited in what fat women can wear,” Hoy says. “My Mom will call me and ask, ‘Can I wear yellow?’ or ‘Can I wear skinny jeans?’ and my response is always, ‘Yes, you can wear that.’”

Hoy says her goal in writing the book is to “change personal narratives” about fashion.

“People will tell me I’m brave to wear shorts. And I say, ‘No, I’m not brave—ER workers are brave.’ I’m wearing shorts because it’s normal to wear shorts in the summer when it’s hot,” Hoy says.

ABBY HOY

Social Media Darling, “Penny Darling”

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STRENGTH DEFINED BY ABBY HOY: “I’ve learned to love who I am. I like to put out the message that femininity is still as strong as hell….

And I like to spread the message that academic intelligence and emotional intelligence can exist in a fat-wrapped package.”

Abby Hoy is on Instagram and TikTok @thepennydarling.

JAMIE BERGER NEVER saw her career unfolding the way it did.

“It really was by accident, but it was definitely God’s plan for me,” says Berger, 45, who was born and raised—and currently lives—in Harrisburg. She was a paralegal, attending law school with every intention of becoming a lawyer.

But in 2004, Berger and her friend Carisa founded C&J Catering, because the Lions Club meeting at their church needed a caterer. Pretty soon, a second Lions Club hired them. From there, catering contracts snowballed: doctors’ offices, government and corporate contracts, the Capitol Restaurant inside the state capitol, and Hershey’s Antique Auto Museum. Along the way, Carisa bowed out as part-owner, although she continues to work for Berger. Just recently, C&J Catering was named official caterer of all concessions at the Farm Show Complex.

C&J is a PA Preferred caterer, which means they’re committed to purchasing 70% of their products from Pennsylvania providers, which Berger says sets them apart from other caterers.

She organized a weekly dinner drive-through pick-up, as well as food boxes. Several times, she outright purchased food boxes and distributed them in central Pennsylvania neighborhoods where the need was the greatest.

Berger says she has more compassion as a result of a tragic loss. Her daughter Kasie passed away in 2018 at the age of 24.

“She had epilepsy, but it was very well controlled—she worked full time for Disney and lived on her own,” Berger says.

“But one night she had a seizure in her sleep and never woke up. There’s nothing harder than losing a child.”

WHAT ARE JAMIE BERGER’S THOUGHTS ON STRENGTH? “I think especially in business, as a woman, you have to be strong for your family. I think women have a bigger challenge in the workforce because they tend to be the primary caregiver at home, too. When I think of strength, I think of the ability to manage both your personal and professional life.”

For more information on C&J Catering, see candjcatering.com.

Following Kasie’s death, Berger didn’t work for about six months—and she still feels indebted to her staff. Today, she focuses on her college-age son, as well as her business.

“I definitely feel like professionally, I’m just getting started, even though I’ve been in business for 16 years,” Berger says, “Because I still see growth opportunities.”

“I love contract work—I’m a relationship person,” Berger says.

“I grew up in a family of partythrowers, so I love to entertain, to make people happy—I’m service and hospitality-oriented.”

It was her hospitality towards her 150 employees and their families amid the pandemic that earned her this nomination as a woman of strength.

“I love my people,” Berger says simply. “We had 80 people laid off, but we still had a little revenue coming in from government contracts, so we tried every single week to give back, to let people know we cared about them.”

JAMIE BERGER

Catering to Clients— and her Community NOVEMBER 2021 | SUSQUEHANNA STYLE

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HOW DOES YALONDA RICE DEFINE STRENGTH? “Strength, to me, is courage.

It’s being who you are and not making any apologies for it. It’s walking in your truth, not being afraid of being transparent—it’s owning who you are.”

For more information on the American Cancer Society, see cancer.org.

CANCER IS PREVALENT in Yalonda Rice’s family. So much that her family formed a Relay for Life team back in her hometown of Baltimore, in 2005. Every year since then—for 16 years—her family has come together for the event, a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society (ACS).

Little did Rice know, she’d be working for the nonprofit one day.

Rice, 43, started out in journalism, working for the Baltimore Sun. She shifted into the nonprofit sector via a position with the Girl Scouts. When she moved to Pennsylvania to pursue her MFA, she applied for a job with the ACS. “Every day, I’m giving back in a way that far surpasses my family’s original commitment,” she says. The nonprofit’s mission “to save lives, celebrate lives, and lead the fight for a world without cancer” resonates with her.

As Senior Development Manager for the Northeast Region for the past seven years, she lives in Millersville and oversees Central Pennsylvania ACS events— Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Central PA, Real Men Wear Pink, and Relay for Life Lebanon County.

it spans all the ribbons, and when we’re talking about survivors, that’s the heart of it,” Rice says.

“My Aunt Cammie was diagnosed with breast cancer in the early 2000s,” Rice says. “She embodies the survivor story because she never gave up and was very transparent in her journey.”

At the family’s Relay for Life events, it was Aunt Cammie who walked the “survivor lap” at the beginning to start things off.

“She was such a motivator— the life of the party,” Rice says. “She would be there wearing her pink ribbons, encouraging us to get our checkups.”

Rice’s Aunt Cammie was a breast cancer survivor, but liver cancer ultimately and quickly took her life.

“Within the American Cancer Society, we talk about our why—why we do what we do,” Rice says. “My family is my why, and I press forward to honor my family. I want to continue building on my work for community advocacy, strengthening health equity reform in communities where screenings aren’t as prevalent, bringing my voice and experiences where I can make a difference in people’s lives.”

“Relay for Life is a celebration of all cancer survivors—

YALONDA RICE Her Family is Her “Why”

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WHAT ARE DEB ROHRER’S THOUGHTS ON STRENGTH? “Strength is how we respond to challenges and setbacks—because we all have them.

To me, strength is getting up in the morning and saying, ‘What am I going to do to make someone else’s life better?' which will in turn make my life better. But more importantly— there’s no shame in failure. The saying I want to push back on is, ‘It is what it is.’ I always want to say, ‘Why is it you feel… it is what it is?

What do you want to do about it?’ When we realize we have a choice—that it doesn’t have to be what it is—that to me is strength.”

For more information on Music for Everyone, see musicforeveryone.org.

DEB ROHRER WAS “looking for something to do” when her daughters were old enough to start school, which led her on a path to nonprofits.

“I worked with the March of Dimes for several years—and I just loved being part of an organization that had such a wonderful mission about children’s and maternal health,” says Rohrer.

Her next position, with the United Way of Lancaster County, “was a wonderful experience partnering with nonprofit organizations and private companies that just wanted to do good—it really felt like we were making a difference,” Rohrer reflects.

She then spent 10 years as Executive Director at Leadership Lancaster, where, “After each year-long class, people became more inspired to become more involved in the community, to pay it forward,” Rohrer says.

She retired in 2017 to spend more time with her family but continued having coffee with people seeking career or leadership advice.

“So I decided to become certified as an executive coach, to start my own coaching and consulting business focused on coaching

DEB ROHRER

nonprofit leaders and executives,” Rohrer says. “That continues to be so rewarding and motivating.”

Then another nonprofit came calling. Friends on the Music for Everyone board asked for her help, and in 2019, she took a part time position as the organization’s director of development.

“I love the mission of the organization, and I love what they do in our community,” Rohrer says.

“When you see people rally around handing out instruments to kids, when you see the look on kids’ faces when you hand them a violin, you see in the eyes of those kids what a difference it makes.”

Today, at the age of 59, Rohrer thinks her job—despite changing positions—remains the same: to continue developing community leaders.

“All the work I was doing at Leadership Lancaster—they were adults in their careers looking for leadership opportunities—but now, I’m providing leadership development opportunities to our students, through music,” says Rohrer. “This is my job, but it also becomes a passion—that’s what nonprofit work has done for me.”

Leading Lancaster’s Leaders NOVEMBER 2021 | SUSQUEHANNA STYLE

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HOW DOES TAMARA HYSON DEFINE STRENGTH? “When you’ve been in the industry for so long, you do get weary, raising a family and running two businesses. So strength to me means perseverance.

WHEN WE CONTACTED Tamara Hyson to tell her she’d been nominated as a Woman of Strength, she tried to give her nomination to someone else.

Giving is what she’s all about.

A trained stylist who’s “been behind the chair for 28 years,” Hyson is a Lancaster native who owns two salons—Ego Trip Hair Salon, Lancaster; and Pure Passion Hair Lounge, Columbia.

She also describes herself as “a Christian business owner.”

“We play all Christian music—I like bringing people to church, without bringing them to church,” says Hyson, who turns 47 this month. “We even pray in the salon. It feels more like a ministry than a salon.”

Her faith deepened, during an experience she had 12 years ago.

“This may sound surreal, but I was 35, and I had uterine cancer,” says Hyson. Then, she found out she had a rare cancer gene, and an ultrasound revealed several tumors on her liver. Thoughts of her family—her Lancaster City police officer husband and four children (two sets of twins) filled her mind. One day, she was overwhelmed by it all while driving to work, so she pulled off the road, called her best friend, and asked her to pray for her.

“That Sunday I went to church— and there was a healing service of all things. That’s when I gave

my life to the lord,” Hyson says.

Although regular screenings often detect pre-cancerous polyps, she is otherwise cancerfree. She’s currently battling advanced glaucoma but despite her health issues, she has a positive outlook.

“What’s so great is—the human body and mind adjust, because for eight years now, I’ve been working with pinpoint vision,” she says.

“I send scripture and encouragement on group chat to all my employees. I just try to be a light to the people around me,” says Hyson. She regularly offers salon pampering days via area churches, and she’s passionate about collaborating with fellow small business owners.

Every fall, Hyson shines a light on her sister’s memory, by hosting cut-a-thons to benefit breast cancer research. This year, she’ll also be honoring her cousin Angela, who works part-time at Ego Trip and is currently undergoing breast cancer treatment.

“My sister was 37 when she was diagnosed with breast cancer, and she was the epitome of strength—she was in the military, and she went through chemo,” Hyson says. “I promised her I would always hold cut-a-thons in honor of her—she was my best friend.”

TAMARA HYSON

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Being a Light

KAREN GLEBA’S WORK may have touched your life—or a loved one’s—without you ever knowing it.

A lifelong architectural engineer, she designs electrical systems for the healthcare industry, including Central Pennsylvania hospitals.

Her work, like everything else in our lives, was greatly affected by COVID-19. In a nutshell, her job was to ensure that hospitals could support the pandemic’s increased electrical loads from ventilators and other machines.

“A key point in our design is to remind people these systems are designed to support lives,” says Gleba, 49, of York. “With Covid, our firm had greater demand to evaluate exhaust and HVAC systems to provide better circulation and filtration.

Now, we’re proactively designing the mechanical and electrical systems to handle any future pandemics.”

As a senior associate at WSP USA, she has a passion for projects.

After dialing her career back to part time status while her two children were young, she returned to management in 2019—and was still the only female engineer.

“I’m trying to retain and get women on upward mobility pathways … I’m trying to be a mentor to younger women because I never had a mentor—I had to create my own path,” she says.

In addition to mentoring, she enjoys touching the community with her talents: She serves on York’s Appell Performing Arts Center’s facilities committee, and she’s volunteered with Bring On Play since it was founded in 2008. They’ve rebuilt 10 York City playgrounds.

WHAT ARE KAREN GLEBA’S THOUGHTS ON THE WORD “STRENGTH?” “I think you have different kinds of strength in different parts of your life. Being a woman in engineering, I’m very often the only woman in the room, and I need to be confident in myself and my voice—that to me is my strength. Having strong values and relationships with family and friends— that’s more of a personal strength, a strong sense of community and doing the right thing. I guess it all adds up.”

If there’s such a thing as an engineering gene, it just might be running through her family: Her husband has worked at the same firm his entire career, and their son is a freshman at their alma mater—Penn State—studying (you guessed it) engineering.

“I love, at the beginning of a project, getting into a room and looking at a blank slate, whether it’s a renovation or construction … getting to know the team, digging in and trying to find the solutions to make this project the best it can be for our hospital clients,” says Gleba. “I love the figuring it out.”

But there’s one aspect of her job she’s had to figure out completely on her own.

“When I was younger and first promoted to management team in 2002, I was the only woman. I was the first woman to earn the professional engineer certification and the first woman project manager,” she explains.

KAREN GLEBA Engineering Her Success

NOVEMBER 2021 | SUSQUEHANNA STYLE

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS Whether it be launching their own businessses, advancing into managerial positions, or dedicating their time to empowering other women, these women and businesses have been breaking down walls (and stereotypes) left and right in the workplace. Here's your chance to meet a few of the amazingly dynamic women making strides in the Susquehanna Valley.

WOMEN IN BUSINESS PROFILES

SHAWNEE S. BURTON: A FIRM COMMITMENT TO TRUST

Shawnee S. Burton loves practicing all aspects of family law and helping people through some of the most emotional and difficult problems they may encounter in their lives. To her, the best part of her work is the connection she makes with clients.

Shawnee feels she is fortunate to practice law in a firm where she is a founding partner with equal say in the way the firm operates and serves its clients.

At Lancaster Law Group, their focus is to provide unparalleled legal services to each client.

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THE GUIDING FORCE BEHIND OAL’S OUTPATIENT JOINT REPLACEMENT PROGRAM

Outpatient Joint Replacement Program is a new program that is the first of its kind, and Weik feels quite passionately about it. Patients can recover in the comfort of their home after surgery with the guidance of a dedicated Outpatient Nurse Navigator. So far, patients

have been extremely appreciative of this new program. A recent patient sent a thank you note, a photo of himself recovered, and money for the whole staff to buy ice cream as a sign of his gratitude for the center’s work. Leadership at the center doubled the patient’s donation and purchased ice cream novelties for the whole staff at both of its locations.

Weik is motivated to continue pursuing her passions after surviving triple-negative breast cancer by the life she has built with her loving husband and the recent arrival of their granddaughter. Weik is also excited to see how NPSC will grow in the future to serve the Susquehanna Valley.

1701 Cornwall Rd, Lebanon, PA 17042 717-277-7009

FIXBONES.COM NOVEMBER 2021 | SUSQUEHANNA STYLE

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS PROFILES

Melissa Weik works as an Executive Administrator at North Pointe Surgery Center in Lebanon and is in charge of outpatient surgery. She has spent over 30 years working as an RN, in roles from critical care to ambulatory care. Weik’s mother was a nurse and she takes pride in following in her footsteps. She is driven to maintain the surgery center as a safe surgical alternative for patients to avoid going to the hospital. Caring for the community and working for a company that has been around for nearly 50 years brings Weik joy.

WOMEN IN BUSINESS PROFILES

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WOMEN CHANGEMAKERS Solvit Academy began as a feeling that education could, and should, be different. Owner and Head of School Melissa Groff knew that she wanted to open a school that was innovative, fun, and relevant to today’s world for her daughters and your family too. She would need a team to help.

Enter Guides Melissa Berardi and Lexi Huhn. Two educators who were ready to use their expertise to foster the innate curiosity of children and celebrate their unique gifts. Their shared mission is to equip and inspire young people to find a calling and change the world.

Serving Kindergarten through 6th grade, Solvit Academy is a licensed, private school built on the foundation that children can be trusted and with support they can accomplish incredible things.

Instead of lectures received at a desk, children are on their feet having discussions, collaborating with peers on hands-on projects, and using the latest, adaptive, game-based technology to cover the basic core skills of reading, writing, and math. Learners are tasked to think critically and ask good questions while they take ownership of

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their goals on a daily, weekly, and yearly basis. In Solvit's studios, each individual is on their own journey to a fulfilling life of purpose.

Breaking from tradition in education can feel like a big undertaking, but the women of Solvit Academy were up for the challenge. Check us out on solvitacademy.com, social media @solvitacademy, or by phone (717) 435-9498.

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS PROFILES

THE FACE BEHIND LANCASTER’S NEWEST JEWELRY DESTINATION Jewelry designer and curator, Laura Wu has lived in Lancaster for nearly 12 years and opened her high-end jewelry boutique Laura Z Tai in September in Downtown Lancaster. Before coming to Lancaster, Wu lived in New York City working as a cake designer under renowned decorator, and former Tiffany designer, Colette Peters.

She appreciates the uniqueness of Lancaster and wants to bring her customers confidence when they wear jewels from her shop.

Wu is very detailed and loves the design, craft, and finishes that jewelry offers.

The vibe of the brand-new boutique is modern and sleek, as are the jewelry designs it features. Wu curates jewelry and watches that are contemporary, simple, powerful, stylish, and unique from brands based in Italy, France, Japan, Switzerland, and a variety of other international countries. Buyers for the store specifically look for special and unique items which Wu appreciates. The store has a museum-like feel where visitors can relax and browse through jewelry as they would with art in an art gallery. After all, jewelry is the art you wear!

Wu is proud of her boutique and the people she employs. Everyone in her store is friendly, passionate and ready to help. She wants visitors to relax and enjoy their time while jewelry shopping. As the holidays approach, Laura Z Tai will have a selection of high-end jewelry and watches to shop. Wu is committed to creating a positive shopping environment while curating the finest collection of high-end jewelry for her Lancaster customers.

101 N Queen St, Suite 111 Lancaster, PA 17603 717-490-6673

LAURAZTAI.COM

@LAURAZTAIJEWELRY

NOVEMBER 2021 | SUSQUEHANNA STYLE

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS PROFILES

JSDC LAW OFFICES WELCOMES FIVE NEW FEMALE PARTNERS

Hershey’s most established law firm, JSDC Law Offices, named five new partners in 2021–and all of them are women.

Christine Taylor Brann has focused her 23-year legal career on litigating family law matters. Christine is a trained mediator, certified to practice Collaborative Law, and is a member of both the International Academy of Collaborative Professionals (IACP) and is the Vice President of the Collaborative Professionals of Central PA (CPCP). She is a member of the Pennsylvania and Dauphin County Bar Associations. Christine also founded and chairs JSDC’s Medical Cannabis Group.

Kathryn L. Mason is a general practitioner who focuses on regulatory and transactional matters, including business transactions, banking and real estate. Katie’s primary concentration within the business, banking, and real estate arena includes loan structuring and consulting, business formations, sale/purchase transactions, creditor’s rights, bankruptcy, workout, foreclosure, municipal law, real estate matters, state board licensing and compliance, funeral director law, and business mergers and acquisitions.

Courtney Kishel Powell joined JSDC in 2002 and concentrates her practice in family law and criminal matters. She serves as a parttime Solicitor to Dauphin County Area Agency on Aging, assisting

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in guardianship matters. She is a member of the Pennsylvania and Dauphin County Bar Association and the William W. Lipsitt American Inn of Court.

Alexis M. Miloszewski concentrates her practice in all areas of family law. She serves on the Family Law Advisory Committee for Dauphin County and previously served as Chair of the Dauphin County Bar Association’s Family Law Section.

Jessica E. Smith focuses her practice on family law and a growing adoption practice. The mother of identical twins is a Past President of the Junior League of Harrisburg, the immediate past chair of the Dauphin County Bar Association’s Young Lawyers Division, and has been named a Rising Star by Super Lawyers annually since 2019.

11 East Chocolate Ave, Suite 300 Hershey, Pennsylvania 17033 717-533-3280

JSDC.COM

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AN UNPARALLELED PASSION FOR DESIGN WOMEN IN BUSINESS PROFILES

Judy Kennedy, owner of JK Home Design, has always been a lover of all things gorgeous. “When I was a little girl, my mum would take me to her appointments at Greenbriar Interiors and I would flip through the fabric books!” So launched her lifelong passion for design.

JK Home Design has a fresh approach with pricing for design services—it’s by the room, not by the hour. Taking time to get to know her clients is key to her success. “A lot of my clients don’t have a design style that fits into a mold - they want a mix of different styles that represents them and their lifestyles.”

Kennedy also provides an idea board full of fabrics, furniture, accessories, and even art as well as 3D renderings that transports the client to their future finished design. Head to jkhomedesign.com to connect with Kennedy for your design needs.

JKHOMEDESIGN.COM

FIRST FEMALE PRESIDENT As the first female president of Elizabethtown College, Cecilia M. McCormick, J.D. is transforming the 120-plus-old institution located in Elizabethtown, Lancaster County. A first-generation college and law school graduate, she has led the institution to welcome its largest incoming classes in nearly a decade for two consecutive years in a row.

“It is an exciting time for Elizabethtown College,” says President McCormick.

“While remaining grounded in our tradition of developing students to think critically, analyze deeply and communicate effectively, we are expanding our academic offerings to include relevant and high-demand fields such as a five-year Physician Assistant program, Exercise Science, Public Health, Data Science, and Social Media and Media Analytics.”

With 92-percent of graduates identifying at least one faculty who made them excited about learning, McCormick shares the College’s success starts with its students.

“At Etown, we prioritize student-research, champion service, and focus on building a student-centered culture. Our students are engaged in high-impact experiences to help them live their best life, and our faculty are empowered with the resources to shape a new generation of leaders who will confidently serve the world.”

1 Alpha Dr, Elizabethtown, PA 17022 717-361-1000

ETOWN.EDU

Cecilia M. McCormick, J.D. NOVEMBER 2021 | SUSQUEHANNA STYLE

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

WOMEN IN BUSINESS PROFILES

PART OF SOMETHING BIG

When you walk into The Englewood you’re hit with a sense of magic.

From the state-of-the-art concert venue, to the aromas of the brewery and kitchen, to the details in decor, and the passion of the staff, you know it'll be an experience. One that you can customize every time!

One of the reasons for this charm begins with the passion of Emily Wilson, the Front of House Director. Now 14 years into her career, Emily has seen it all from quaint French bakeries to large scale breweries, in every guest-facing role.

Her personal commitment for entertainment and connection are amplified by the diverse offering of The Englewood. “I love being a part of something this big, that creatively impacts the community.”

She goes on to add, "nothing radiates more than an environment for like-minded individuals to share their creativity with others."

Something she strives to foster at The Englewood.

1219 Research Blvd.

Hummelstown, PA 17036 717-256-9480

ENGLEWOODHERSHEY.COM

MAKING A DIFFERENCE FOR CLIENTS Veronica Morrison considers herself lucky to have found her life’s calling at an early age. “I saw injustices occurring around me when I was young and wanted to help those suffering from injustice,” she recalls. As a partner and member of the Board at the law firm of Mette, Evans & Woodside, she chooses cases where she believes she can make a real difference for her clients. Her litigation approach is purpose-driven for people she regards as “not just clients, but friends.”

Veronica also mentors young lawyers at her firm, explaining that “I want to pay forward what my law partner Mike Reed did for me, helping me to build a strong litigation practice, and showing confidence in me that inspires me to succeed.” While lawyering is a full-time job, Veronica is also thrilled to be a new mother, encountering rewarding experiences every day with her six-month-old son, Wells.

3401 N Front St. Harrisburg, PA 17110 717-827-9882

METTE.COM 38

SUSQUEHANNA STYLE | NOVEMBER 2021

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

PERSONALIZED EXPERIENCE, COLLABORATIVE APPROACH, RIGHT-SIZED SOLUTIONS, AND MAXIMIZED IMPACT. WOMEN IN BUSINESS PROFILES

With a Harrisburg home base but a statewide footprint, Novak Strategic Advisors (NSA) is a comprehensive government and public affairs firm servicing a number of clients from Fortune 500 companies to charitable organizations and small businesses. On their behalf, NSA has effectively achieved numerous legislative victories, educated leaders about clients’ issues, and developed relationships with government entities. At Novak Strategic Advisors, the number one goal is results.

It’s this philosophy that has made Senior Partner, Angela Leopold, grow with NSA over the past 15+ years and be an invaluable asset.

“Every day is a new challenge,” says Leopold. “I love the ability to meet new people, talk about client issues with elected officials, stakeholders and non-governmental officials and strategizing with our team. No room for boredom at Novak!”

Angela Leopold, Senior Partner 500 N Third St, 9th Floor Harrisburg, PA 17101 717-234-9909

NOVAKSTRATEGIC.COM

compasspt.com/client-stories/kitchen-magic

Read About Their Growth Story! ValuePoints ROI 9X in 48 Months!

GROWING

NSA recognizes that the driving force behind every success is a personalized and strategic plan that relies on consensus building, good relationships, and creating cohesive coalitions. At NSA, the philosophy around client relationships is based on simple, yet impactful principles: personalized experience, collaborative approach, right-sized solutions, and maximized impact. NSA tailors every client relationship to be responsive to their clients’ needs and do so by bringing every available asset to the table and those assets include having the right staff.

Kitchen Magic President Brett Bacho with Compass Point Business Advisor Tom Garrity in the company’s Nazareth plant

HOW DOES A FAMILY BUSINESS SCALE FOR GROWTH? They hire the Family Business Experts.

610.336.0514

Take your family business to the next level with Compass Point.

Compass Point Consulting LLC

fambiz_matters

@compasspt

www.compasspt.com

NOVEMBER 2021 | SUSQUEHANNA STYLE

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FIVE THINGS

EAT LIFESTYLE & DRINK

Women rock! There are a bevy of nonprofits that are run by women to benefit women in the Susquehanna Valley. With the holidays coming up fast, now is a great time to catch up on your charity work while supporting the most driven women and women's groups in the region.

5 Female Oriented Nonprofits

BY LINDSAY GARBACIK

YWCA OF GETTYSBURG & ADAMS COUNTY

ywcagettysburg.org | 909 Fairfield Rd, Gettysburg, PA

An organization in existence since 1929, this nonprofit works to improve the community of Adams county with its all-female board of directors. Their goals include eliminating racism and empowering women in Adams County. The group strives to be a place for community growth that connects the cultures of its citizens and encourages healthy lifestyles through the use of its impressive fitness, swimming, and child care facilities and multipurpose space. The group also hosts child enrichment programs at Fairfield Elementary School and at the Adams Commerce Center.

MOMS CLUB OF YORK PA

facebook.com/momsclubyork | York, PA

A chapter of MOMS Club International, the MOMS Club of York is a community organization set on providing a space for moms with young children to bond and commiserate on the ups and downs of being a parent. This fun club is filled with stay-athome or part-time working moms and their children aged newborn to six years old. There are weekly events at parks, museums, and restaurants for both mother and child. Once a month, the club hosts a “Moms Night Out” where members can enjoy a kid-free evening and relax. As both a social organization and a support system, this group will be beneficial to any new mom.

MILAGRO HOUSE

milagrohouse.org | 669 W Chestnut St, Lancaster, PA

Providing housing, support, and education for women and their children who would be experiencing homelessness is an invaluable service that Milagro House provides to Lancaster County. Milagro House believes that education is the catalyst for women moving from dependent to independent in the workforce. The group offers GED classes and a few post-secondary education courses to its members so they can build a solid foundation of education. Once the members are employed, Milagro House works with them to find reliable housing so they are on the path to success with their new job.

DRESS FOR SUCCESS SOUTH CENTRAL PA

Southcentralpa.dressforsuccess.org | 29 S 10th St, Harrisburg, PA

This fabulous nonprofit provides free professional attire and development tools for women in need and serves Adams, Cumberland, Dauphin, Lebanon, Perry, and York county. In addition, they have a Mobile Suiting Program that travels the region delivering workwear to people in south central PA for no cost. There is a boutique in Harrisburg where women can try on suits for job training and interviews. Once they are employed, they are invited back to the boutique to add to their workwear wardrobe. This organization is empowering women to achieve their career goals one suit at a time.

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE INTERVENTION OF LEBANON COUNTY dviolc.org

Providing counselling, sanctuary, and support to victims of domestic abuse, this organization knows how big of an issue domestic violence is. They believe that “no person has the right to harm another,” and provide a host of useful resources on their website for those involved in an altercation. There are also free virtual workshops to help people deal with trauma and work through other domestic violence related scars. The Domestic Violence Intervention of Lebanon County is driven to protect women, children, and everyone harmed by abuse.

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SUSQUEHANNA STYLE | NOVEMBER 2021

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 18TH

6–9 PM | Cork Factory Hotel 480 New Holland Ave #3000, Lancaster, PA 17602

Networking • Hors d'oeuvres • Cocktails Pampering • Shopping • Fashion Show

NOVEMBER 2021 | SUSQUEHANNA STYLE

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SANTA'S ON HIS WAY! ARRIVING NOV. 12

NOW OPEN

COMING SOON ShopCapitalCityMall.com

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SUSQUEHANNA STYLE | NOVEMBER 2021