Building Business Value from the Inside Out: Strategic Accounting and Fractional CFO Services
After more than 15 years serving as a fractional CFO to small businesses, I’ve observed a consistent truth: The effectiveness of an accounting system depends far less on the software and far more on the quality of its workflows, controls and people.
The Clarity Gap
Many small business owners rely on accounting personnel who are stretched thin or lack the training to produce decision-ready financial information. As a result, they operate without a crucial leadership tool: clarity. This clarity gap can erode competitive advantage and reduce enterprise value over time.
The Financial Awareness Gap
Even when accounting systems function properly, many owners struggle to interpret financial statements or identify the management reports required to lead strategically. This lack of financial fluency limits their ability to make confident, forward-looking decisions
Eliminating the Gaps: Strategic Small Business Accounting Services
To address these challenges, Regal Wealth Advisors is launching Strategic Small Business Accounting Services an integrated outsourced accounting platform operating under fractional CFO oversight.
We offer wealth management services for owners of growth-stage small businesses that include:
• Accurate, GAAP-compliant accounting that drives timely financial reporting.
• Structured monthly closes that produce reliable financial statements
• Customized management reporting aligned with how the owner runs the business
most asset.
is often their most valuable asset. Strengthening its financial foundation is central to long-term wealth planning and successful exit outcomes
By building financial clarity from the inside out, we help owners lead with confidence today, while positioning their companies for stronger valuation and more successful exits tomorrow.
Clarity + Financial Awareness = Enterprise Value
As a Certified Exit Planning Advisor (CEPA), I work within the concept of a value gap the difference between a company’s current value and its potential value if operating optimally Too often, weaknesses in accounting clarity and financial awareness suppress that potential.
• Rolling forecasts and forward-looking analysis to guide decision-making.
• Ongoing fractional CFO guidance focused on profitability, key performance indicators, cash flow and long-term value.
• Ongoing owner education that builds confidence in financial statements and performance dashboards.
The result is more than highly effective bookkeeping it is financial infrastructure designed to support sustainable growth and increased enterprise value.
Let’s Talk
If you own a growing small business but fear that your financial systems are lagging and are hindering future growth opportunities, we invite you to explore how Strategic Small Business Accounting Services could be a thoughtful next step in strengthening both your company and your longterm wealth strategy.
A Natural Fit for Regal Wealth Advisors
Business value and personal wealth are deeply interconnected, and for many small business owners, their company
John W. Packer, CPA, CEPA, MBA, is Regal Wealth Advisors’ Small Business Advisor, providing fractional CFO and exit planning services
BALANCE MAGAZINE
Ilove this time of year We have all the best weather ahead of us and hopefully the worst weather behind us. There’s still a lot to do in the spring - cleaning, home improvements, weeding, more weeding. But there’s also small moments to slow down, enjoy the sunshine and warmer days, and be well. We tried to pack this issue with spring wellness - health benefits of a sauna, how to incorporate a wellness space in your home, treating yourself to a fun day trip, and the latest accessory trends to get us in the spring mindset. We hope you enjoy this issue Happy spring, and thank you so much for reading
ON THE COVER
Published by
President: Chris Stahl
Editor-in-Chief: Lindsey McCallum
Creative Direction: Amy Rodriguez
Content Editor: Margaret Gates
Design: Kim Buckwalter, Christine Vernon, Amy Rodriguez, Bailey Watro
Photography: Quinn Staley, Vinny Tennis
Writers: Krista Lockwood, Lindsey McCallum, Christine Vernon, Bailey Watro
Production: Kim Buckwalter, Erica Feltenberger, Sally Reynolds, Tim Trinh, Sydney Ward
Subscriptions to LNP|LancasterOnline: Call 717.291.8611
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P.O. Box 1328, Lancaster, PA 17608-1328
Copyright © 2026 LNP Media Group All Rights Reserved.
Lindsey McCallum | Editor-In-Chief | lmccallum@lnpnews.com
HANDCRAFTED FOR QUALITY, Made-to- Order Furniture
Photo by Quinn Staley
Ashley Schmouder steps into a sauna at Doro Health in Lititz
8 Relax, recover, renew - by Krista Lockwood
See
18 Turn up the heat - by Christine Vernon
With potential
26 Visit Phoenixville - by Bailey Watro
36 All about that base - by Lindsey McCallum
Creating g WELLNESS SPACES S at home
BY KRISTA LOCKWOOD
PHOTOS BY KRISTA LOCKWOOD,BEN SHEARD,STACY MARTIN, AND JOANN CANOSA
Our homes,whether apartmentswe rent or houses we own, areahugepart of ourlives.Theyare set up for sleeping, cooking, storage,gathering, andfor feeling safe and secure, but theycan be usedfor so much more.
Wellness rooms,for example,havebeen growing in popularity sincethe pandemic. Awellness space canbeas simple asa thoughtfully decorated meditation nook, or alargerspace for asaunaorhot tub.
Wellness spacesdon’t have to be elaborate; they canbeasbudgetfriendly or as high-end as someonechooses Thecommon factor when creating your personal wellness space is intention Choose apurpose, whetherit be for
reconnectionand grounding, creating, mental well-being or physical recovery. Thegoalissimply to create aplace supportive of whatever kind of wellness someone wantstobring to their dailylife.
Helene Williams,aregistered nurse and certified medical Reiki master,advises focusingonwhat truly brings asense of peace, and incorporating those elements into your wellness space.These could be plants, lighting, music, or personal items She emphasizes that awellness space worksbest when it is uncluttered.Whena space gets toofilled with objectsitstarts to feelchaotic rather than calming.
We spoke with three Lancastrians who have transformed parts of their homes into
wellness spaces. Each createdadifferent kind of space,but all shared acommon goal: to create aplacetounwind,promote self-careand recovery at home.
AR OOMFOR MEDITATION & INTENTION
JoAnnCanosadescribes herwellness room as an energetically inspiringspace, one that helps her feelgrounded and aligned with love andpositivity.She uses her meditation room everymorning and will revisitthe room occasionallylater in theday when she’sfeeling unbalanced or stressed.
“Today wasone of thosedays Ineededtocomeintwice,” shesays. “When Igointomy meditationroom in the morningI am aligning with my higher self,sothat I makemychoices from aplace of love and notfear.”
Canosa and herhusband have lived in theirhouse forroughly 11 years, and the space has served as herwellness room for just as long.She chose this room in her home becauseapastorpreviously lived in the houseand used the room to write his sermons
“When Iwalked in, Ijustfelt good energy,” shesays.
To add to the ambiance, shedesigned herwellnessroom with ahardwood floorand soft greenpaint. The walls are decoratedwith photographs shetookof hearts shefound in nature,suchasheartshaped stonesand flowers
Herwellness room features adesk where shecan journal,alarge window fornatural light and aview, amat with ameditation bench, aReiki table, and an altar with items personal to her,like stones, beads, notes from grandchildren, art, booksand pictures.Canosa says the most important elementis personal intention.
Above:Stacy Martin’sgarden, Lancaster, PA
Left:JoAnnCanosa’sheart art low: JoAnn Canosa’swellnessroom, Lancaster, PA
Locally Made Patio Fur niture
“Intuitively listen to howyou’re beingguided and howyou want to use thespace,” she says.“It’s very personal, whateveritisthat makesyourheartsing.”
BACKYARD RETR EAT
While her home supports herwellness in many ways,Stacy Martin says her personal wellness oasis is hergarden. Working with her hands in the soil is her wayofunwinding and reconnecting.
“I think it’saway underutilizedformof therapy,”she says.She strongly believes
Photos courtesy BenSheardofLancoSaunas
in the science of being outside and gardeningto supportmental health.
Herthird-of-an-acre property is abundant with plants,two ponds, asauna, and asmall
“she-shed” tucked among the greenery.Manyof the artpieces that are thoughtfullyplaced around the yard were createdbyher partner, Kevin Lehman, aceramic and glassartistand the creatorofLancaster
CreativeFactory
“It’slikemyrelaxation area,mycreative area,my little laboratory,”
Martin says When the winter arrivesand the garden turnsdarkand brown, Martin bringsher garden indoors. She moves roughly 70 pottedplants into her home to keep her space greeninthe colder months and continuesher wellness practicewith indoor gardening.
“Itjustadds betterenergytothe space in general.”
WhenMartin and Lehman were brainstormingwhere to put asauna, theyrealized it would work best in the garden tucked amongtropical plants. Lehman built the saunahimselfand installed aheaterwith the help of friend who’sanelectrician.The unit uses about the same voltageasanovenand includes asmall ventilation opening.
Martin says sheoften adds essential oil likeeucalyptusorlavender, or
sweetgrass or sage to water to pour over the lava rockstoadd humidity and a refreshing aromatherapy effect. They typically useitfor 15-20minutes at a time,steppingoutsidetocooloff before goingback in, even in the frigid winter.
Martin’s “she-shed” is asmall, brightly coloredgardengetaway with adaybed, artwork, alittle campingfan, battery-poweredlights,glass doors recycledfromachurch, and windows overlooking the yard.
“I wanted apottingshed, but really I wanted some place to nap and daydream outside …but inside,” sheexplains, so shecreated this garden nook in an area of heryardthat wasn’t ideal for planting. In the warmer months,the space is her favorite place to relax.
“I canwalk up to it with my book or magazines or just even if Iwanttowatch ashoworsomethingonmyphone,”she says.“Ijusttakeupadrink,and Ilay there, and Ilook out.”
Whendesigningher garden wellness space,Martin designs it all in herhead, carefully considerslight exposure, and tackles onesectionatatime.
RECOVERY AT HOME
Recovery is just as important as the workoutitself, Donna Boomsma says “People work outsohard, and they don’t realize howimportantthe recovery side of it is,” sheexplains. “Having somethinglikered-light therapyor beingable to go relax in ahot tubora saunaissobeneficial.”
Boomsma, an employeeofUniversal AthleticClub in Lancaster, sees the advantages of recovery regularly.
Inspired by these benefits, she incorporates similar recovery tools in her own home.
Her wellness space began during the pandemic, when she and her husband decided to bring home a hot tub to relax, ease sore muscles and improve circulation They expanded their patio to make room for it in their yard, where large trees provide privacy and a calming atmosphere
“I’m out there almost every night,” she says. “Just go out in the back, have quiet time to just relax, put some music on in an ear bud and just chill.”
Along with the hot tub, Boomsma also uses red-light therapy. Her red-light device is a class II medical device that can be wrapped around joints like knees or shoulders to reduce aches, inflammation and arthritis, while supporting collagen production. It can toggle between red, green and blue lighting, each offering a different benefit
“As my kids were going through high school lacrosse, if somebody came home with aches and pains, I could wrap it around them,” she says
A wide variety of red-light recovery products are available, Boomsma says, such as large redlight beds, infrared sauna beamers, electromagnetic pads and more Another tool for recovery are NormaTec Boots that increase circulation and help lymphatic drainage, she says.
“Just make sure you’re buying the best quality that you can afford, because it is an investment,” she says. “Not everything is created equal; if you’re gonna do it, you do it right.”
Athletes spend significant money on recovery because they know it helps extend their careers, she says. At home, the benefits can be simpler but still effective by creating a quiet place to relax, ease sore muscles and recover after a workout.
Above: Stacy Martin's she-shed, Lancaster PA Right: Photo courtesy Ben Sheard of Lanco Saunas
Ever Wood® Faux Wood Blinds
Silhouet te ® Sheer Shades
Woven Wood Shades
Piroue
from farm to table
It’s been nearly a century since the Log Cabin restaurant in Leola got its start as a Prohibition-era speakeasy tucked in the dense woods of the Lehoy Forest In 1933, when Prohibition came to an end, the building became a restaurant that operated continuously through the Depression Era and World War II.
The restaurant honors its roots today with a private downstairs room known as the Speakeasy and an annual Roaring ’20s-style party celebrating the end of Prohibition Now in its 93rd year as a “legal” operation, the Log Cabin is one of Lancaster County ’s top fine dining destinations. And while the main restaurant, built out of oak logs from the surrounding forest, has undergone many upgrades over the years, it still maintains the elegance and historic charm of a bygone era.
The Log Cabin now boasts 12 dining rooms spanning three floors, each with its own personality – from the Piano Lounge and Tavern Bar to the Booth Room, where alcohol was once rumored to have been hidden beneath the carved wooden booths.
The newest addition is the semi-private Overlook Room, featuring historic corbels from the old Stevens House Hotel in downtown Lancaster
Among the most requested rooms is the Gallery, a stylish space featuring historic paintings, a stone fireplace, and French doors with views of the Patio and Garden
The Gallery comfortably seats up to 50 guests and can be opened to the outdoors during warmer months for private events and celebrations of all sizes
From April through October, weather permitting, guests can dine outdoors on the Log Cabin’s brick patio or gather for drinks around a fire pit in the garden Surrounded by tall oak trees, the outdoor spaces offer a beautiful setting for a relaxed evening.
Spring is considered an ideal time to visit, whether for a private event, a milestone celebration, or simply a quiet dinner out with loved ones Executive Chef Steve Painter draws heavily on locally sourced ingredients, including herbs and vegetables grown on-site and at neighboring farms Spring plantings include peas, spinach, radishes, kale, and Swiss chard, while perennial herbs thyme, chives, rosemary, sage, and mint are harvested throughout the growing season. Eggs are sourced from an Amish farm just down the road.
Still true to its roots, the Log Cabin has a reputation for craft cocktails and fine wines from around the world. Over the past year, following an expansion of its cellar, the restaurant has more than doubled its wine list and added a broader selection of spirits
The Log Cabin is open Monday through Saturday, 5:00-9:00pm. For more information and to make a reservation, visit logcabin1933.com
HEART BANKING WITH
For many people, working in the banking industry is a job. For Emily Miller, it’s a calling.
Asmarket relationship manager for the Mount Joy and new Lititz-Landis Homes (Lititz community) branches of Everence Federal Credit Union, Miller not only assists members with tasks such as opening accounts and applying for loans but also helps them find financial solutions for life’s expected and unexpected twists and turns
“In this ever-changing world that we’re in, finances are not always the easiest to understand,”
experience that mission in very tangible ways, including the MyNeighbor credit card and relationship checking two programs that help members generate additional resources that they can steward for themselves and the community.
A relationship checking account lets members earn up to 2% APY when they maintain a balance of $1,000 and meet additional requirements,
says Miller, who also oversees strategy for the Lancaster, Lititz, Mount Joy and Ephrata branches. “A lot of the time I’m helping people put on glasses that help them see or take off blinders and connect dots that help them understand their financial picture in a way that makes sense, in a way that also fits their life and their needs.”
of total transactions in the form of an annual check to the member ’s designated charitable organization. Nonprofits can use the MyNeighbor card for their expenses as well, supporting their own cause with every transaction.
Miller shares the story of an Everence Federal Credit Union member who had been earning about $48 per year with a cash-back credit card from another banking institution. When they switched to the MyNeighbor credit card and a relationship checking account
including signing up for online banking and electronic statements, posting 10 monthly credit or debit transactions, and
Miller ’s view of her role reflects Everence Federal Credit Union as a whole. It’s a place where banking is more than simply a transaction; it’s an opportunity to build relationships and have an impact
through Everence, they were able to earn just under $200 in their checking account for the year and still donate 1.5% of their total credit card transactions to their designated charity.
A lot of the time I’m helping people put on glasses that help them see or take off blinders and connect dots that help them understand their financial picture in a way that makes sense, in a way that also fits their life and their needs.
- EMILY MILLER
“Our priority here is the ability to invest in our members,” she says And to help members invest in what matters to them
BANKING WITH IMPACT
Choosing Everence as their primary banking institution allows members to
posting monthly direct deposits or ACH credits that total at least $1,000
The MyNeighbor program makes it easy for members to support causes they care about through their normal shopping routines When members use the MyNeighbor credit card for everything from groceries and gas to dining out, Everence will donate 1.5%
BANKING WITH CARE
Helping members focus more clearly on their financial picture is part of the Everence Federal Credit Union relationship. All branch managers and market relationship managers now hold a Certified Credit Union Financial Counselor designation, which allows them to offer financial wellness counseling in areas such as budgeting, debt management, strengthening credit scores and financial goal setting.
“Working for a faith-based organization is a really unique way that I love that I can show up to work,” Miller says “My first priority in life is to be a disciple of Christ I love that I can do that in tangible ways and help people see the light at the end of
the tunnel. …Itfills me up to be able to usemygifts to actuallyexplain asituation and meetpeople wherethey’re at andgive them hope.”
Through employees likeMiller and creativebanking programs,Everence Federal Credit Unionhas many tools to assist its members, whether they’re navigating financialdifficulties or hoping to increasetheir generosity. But membership alsocomes withaccessto the manyother servicesofthe broader Everence Financial organization, from assetmanagementand investing to financial planning andMedicare education.
BANKING FOR COMMUNITY
All of thoseservices arenow more convenientfor the Lititz communitywith the recentopeningofthe newestEverence Federal Credit Union branch on the campus ofLandis Homes,which already hosted anEverence Financialoffice.The new branch is an outgrowth of the longstanding relationship between these twofaith-based organizationswho share similarmissions of stewardship and community
On March18, theNorthernLancaster Chamber of CommercejoinedEverenceand Landis Homesleaderstocelebrate aribbon cuttingfor thenew Lititz-LandisHomes Everence Federal Credit Union branch
While the newbranchisopen to the broader public, Landis Homesresidents areparticularlyexcited to welcome EverenceFederal Credit Union to theircampus. AndMillerisequally excited forthe opportunity to buildnew relationships.Creditunion membersare not merely membersshe serves —they are part of ashared community.
“It’s been meaningful to walk arm and arm with these residents thatbelieve in
Kyle Keen,Everencedirectoroforganizational services, greets residents in theEverence officesatLandisHomes
Everence, thatbelieve in the missionof Everence and have asimilarfaith journey,” she says.“Financesjust bring up so many conversations—onmissionarywork, jobs they’ve held, life experiences they’ve lived. IfeellikeI’m surrounded by wisdom and insight.”
Everence FederalCreditUnion is federally insured by NCUA .
Lear n more about becoming a credit union member at everence.com/banking.
Everence offers credit union products that are federally insured by NCUA Investments and other products are not NCUA or otherwise federally insured, may involve loss of principal and have no credit union guarantee Some Everence products and services may not be available in your state.
Maxwell Roman, memberservicesrepresentativeat Landis Homes, and Emily Miller, marketrelationship manager, serveresidentsatthe Lititz-Landis Homes Everence Federal Credit Union branch.
SWEAT LET ’S
it Out
IBY CHRISTINE VERNON TRATIONS BY BAILEY WATRO
TIONS
Saunas have a long history, originating in Northern Europe thousands of years ago. Culturally significant in Finland, where there are over 3 million saunas in use, here in the States they ’re finally growing in popularity.
n recent years, there’s been an ever-growing desire for wellness and well-being that incorporates more relaxing but beneficial experiences, including sauna use
“I think the pandemic played a big part of that, because people started taking their personal health and wellness a lot more seriously,” says Micah Waltman of Lanco Saunas
You may think sitting in a sauna and sweating serves no purpose, but research shows there’s a long list of both physical and mental health benefits, and they’re turning more people from doubters to devout users.
While both traditional and infrared saunas tout a long list of benefits, there is more scientific research and studies for traditional saunas Infrared saunas are newer to the market and haven’t been as widely studied.
BENEFITS
A guest recently finished his infrared sauna session at Beem Light Sauna in Lancaster raving about how relaxed he was and how much better he feels overall. He said he’s even been able to lose some stubborn weight.
“It’s very relaxing,” says Melissa Gonzalez, general manager at the studio “It’ll help you sleep better.”
Studies have shown that sauna use releases endorphins, the body ’s natural mood boosters and pain relievers, which may account for that elevated mood and overall feeling of well-being.
Other potential benefits include:
Exercise recovery: A study published with the National Institutes of Health explored how a post-exercise infrared sauna session increases blood flow to the muscles, shortening recovery time and reducing soreness and pain after exercise
Another study analyzing the heavy sweating induced by high heat exposure in both traditional and infrared saunas measured a higher removal of toxins, such as environmental pollutants and heavy metals, versus sweating alone.
Mitochondrial function: Mitochondria are the little energy plants found in your body ’s cells and while they serve many purposes, one of them is energy production. A 2021 study published in the International Journal of
Environmental Research and Public Health, discusses how regular sauna use can promote the creation of new mitochondria, increase the production of ATP (the main energy store for cells), and trigger the production of heat shock proteins that protect cells from stress.
Heart health: A study published in the American Journal of Physiology takes a deep look at the effects of sauna use finding both traditional and infrared sauna use may offer cardiovascular benefits due to the increased body temperature and slight rise in heart rate that includes improved blood flow and circulation, reduced arterial stiffness and a reduction in blood pressure.
Proper hydration before and after a sauna session is essential to prevent dehydration. Start with shorter sessions and temperatures and gradually increase, and if you feel unwell, exit the sauna immediately, Lanco Saunas advises on its website.
Always consult with a doctor prior to exploring sauna use, especially if you have medical conditions or concerns.
DIFFERENCES
Infrared saunas use infrared near, mid and far wavelengths to penetrate deeply into tissue, warming the body gradually from within, and are used at lower temperatures not surpassing 158 degrees Fahrenheit, Gonzalez says.
“It takes about 20 minutes for it to penetrate and get your heart rate pumping,” she says “It’s heating you up from the core out.”
Infrared saunas produce a dry heat with no humidity. Chromotherapy is available in most infrared saunas, which allows the user to change the light color to support their mood.
Traditional saunas radiantly heat the air, typically with stones that are heated using a wood-burning stove or heating unit producing intense heat upward of 200 degrees Fahrenheit Water is poured over the stones to produce steam to adjust humidity levels Some users will incorporate aromatherapy to enhance their sauna session.
Some studies show potential for reducing the risk of Alzheimer’s and other dementias with high-frequency sauna use, although the results are not definitive
Sauna to Where
Finding a local, traditional sauna can be difficult. Some commercial gyms offer communal saunas, typically co-ed, which can be uncomfortable for those preferring more privacy Lanco Saunas offers indoor and outdoor models handcrafted in Intercourse for home use, as well as custom design and construction services. Their eight-person mobile sauna is available to rent by the day or week for events or those who’d like to experience a sauna before investing in one.
“Many of our customers have used saunas in the past and really enjoy them, mostly at a commercial gym or something like that,” Waltman says You may run into issues of ventilation, wear and maintenance at some of those commercial locations, Waltman says “Plus, they also have to share it with strangers, which takes away from that personal aspect of it.”
Easier to install and maintain in smaller spaces, infrared saunas are growing in popularity Home models are typically sold as easy-to-assemble kits that don’t require any special wiring or installation. Some wellness spas and salons have added an infrared sauna to their facilities. Beem Light Sauna is new to Lancaster and offers single- and multiperson infrared saunas and red light therapy. “Our saunas run at a lower temperature, so it makes it more comfortable,” Gonzalez says, which may be more suitable for those that are sensitive to heat.
• Warmth generated by heating stones over wood-burning unit or heater.
• Radiant heating of the air, providing intense heat.
• Dry heat but pouring water over the stones can add steam.
• Operates between 150F to 195F.
• 180F is considered the “sweet spot.”
• Extensive research and studies support regular use for lowering the risk of serious health conditions
• Session length: 10-30 minutes.
• Warm up time: 30-60 minutes.
• Indoor and outdoor models for home use.
vs. vs.
• Warmth generated by infrared near, mid and far wavelengths.
• Heats the body directly, penetrating tissues.
• Dry heat, no humidity.
• Operates between 100F and 158F.
• Fewer research and studies.
• Lower temperatures easier for some to handle.
• Session length: 30-45 minutes.
• Warm up time: 10-15 minutes.
• Indoor models available for home use.
Sources: Lanco Saunas and Beem Light Studio
If you’re starting to think about next steps for a loved one, we’re here to help Landis Homes Personal Care offers daily support, engaging activities, and a warm, welcoming environment for both residents and families. Our Personal Care communit y is here for you. With newly renovated spaces designed for comfort and peace of mind.
Tucked at the end of a winding lane just east of Intercourse on Old Philadelphia Pike sits a world-renowned clinic for rare genetic conditions: the Clinic for Special Children.
From participating in cutting-edge gene therapy trials to treating everyday illnesses like the common cold, the Clinic has cared for thousands of families over the past 37 years. While its patients primarily come from local Amish and Mennonite communities, the Clinic’s impact reaches far beyond Lancaster County.
In recent years, this Lancaster County nonprofit became the highest-enrolling clinical trial site in the world for a now FDA-approved gene therapy to treat spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), a devastating neuromuscular disease. The success of this research has transformed lives globally, demonstrating how discoveries made in a local clinic can influence modern medicine worldwide.
SMA is just one of 511 genetic disorders the Clinic has diagnosed or treated throughout its history, reflecting both the complexity of rare disease and the depth of the Clinic’s expertise.
What makes the Clinic unique extends beyond the population it serves. Unlike traditional health care systems, the organization operates largely through charitable support, allowing it to prioritize patient-centered care and long-term research. Its on-site advanced genetics laboratory is fully integrated into everyday clinical practice, enabling physicians and scientists to work side by side. This collaboration allows genetic testing results to move quickly from laboratory discovery to real-world patient care
As a result, the Clinic identifies a genetic diagnosis approximately 76% of the time, well above the diagnostic rate reported by many large health care systems. Its research program begins with questions raised in the exam room, ensuring that scientific discoveries directly improve treatment options and quality of life for patients and families.
At the Clinic for Special Children, innovation and compassion work hand in hand, proving that world-class medical advances can grow from deeply local roots
From the time a child can walk, they can start learning skills that will carry them into adulthood. That’s the idea behind KidStrong, a nationwide science-based program with a location on Columbia Avenue in Lancaster.
“At its core, KidStrong is a confidence building, movement-based program for kids walking age through 11 years,” says Lauren Griffey, who purchased the Lancaster franchise with husband Justin. “But we are more than that we also incorporate cognitive learning and character-building skills such as grit, bravery, leadership and independence.
“Kids learn skills they can use on the playground, in school, on the sports field and one day at their jobs,” Griffey says “Our main goal is to build confidence in kids through these foundational skills.”
Helping Kids Win at Life
KidStrong is based in Texas, where a team of child development professionals work with the programmers to ensure that physical, cognitive and character development milestones are incorporated into each week’s programming. Classes are divided by age group with age-appropriate activities designed to build core skills
“Every class starts with the affirmation: I am strong, I am brave, I can do this, and includes practicing social greetings, such as a firm handshake with eye contact,” Griffey says.
“The greatest gift we can give our kids is the person we help them become.”
— MATT & MEGIN SHARP, KIDSTRONG FOUNDERS
The Griffeys she’s a former occupational therapist and he works in the insurance industry are Elizabethtown College grads with two young children of their own. They learned about KidStrong from a friend who is a KidStrong franchisee. The Griffeys plan to open additional locations in Central Pennsylvania and Maryland.
“Once we saw what an impact it was making on kids’ lives, we wanted to bring this everywhere we can,” she says.
The weekly 45 minute class then moves through a series of blocks including skill-based warmups, obstacle courses, learning activities, competitions, and character-building tasks such as public speaking, teamwork or problem solving.
As kids progress and build on their skills, they can rank up and unlock new responsibilities, teaching them about accountability and success through consistency
Programming changes weekly Most kids attend class once a week, and parents are required to stay. “Parent involvement helps to boost confidence in kids,” Griffey says “We want it to be a whole-family experience.”
KidStrong has 180 locations in the U.S. and Canada. The Lancaster location currently serves over 500 kids through weekly programming and offers summer camps, birthday parties and parents’ night out events.
“We’re not just a kids’ gym,” Griffey says “We are a kids’ development program. A KidStrong membership is an investment in helping your kids build the confidence and skills that will last their entire life.”
Willow Valley Communities is honored to have earned the #2 nationwide ranking in Newsweek’s 2026 edition of America’s Best Continuing Care Retirement Communities. This marks the second consecutive year we’ve been honored with this recognition.
Thank you to our residents and team members for making our community a truly special place to live and work.
We invite you to learn more about our newest community, Mosaic! Now is an especially good time to consider Mosaic, as we have announced a target construction timeline, and preconstruction pricing will be ending soon.
Open House
Saturday, April 18, 2026 11:00 a.m.- 2:00 p.m.
Tour the full-scale model apartment, enjoy treats from the Mosaic neighborhood, and meet our team. No registration required.
BY BAILEY WATRO
There is an entire day to be had walking down the length of Bridge Street in Phoenixville You can grab a coffee and artisan pastry, see a movie in a historic theater, do some vintage shopping, grab dinner and end the night with a cocktail at a local distillery.
Throughout the year there are events and festivals around this Chester County town, and in the warmer months Bridge Street turns “Inside Out.” The streets close to traffic and turn into an open-air experience, restaurants expand their seating to the sidewalks, and it’s not uncommon to see families walking, biking or playing yard games in the space of the usually busy thoroughfare.
A former steel town, Phoenixville has revitalized itself in the last few decades with a new crop of shops, breweries and restaurants. The town has become a destination for locals and visitors alike, and at only an hour’s drive from Lancaster, it’s a perfect place for a day trip
events
PXV Inside Out
MAY 22-OCT. 4
100 and 200 blocks of Bridge Street closed, restaurants and breweries extend their seating into the street. Many stores have outside displays and sales.
Do gwo od Festival
MAY 13-16
Reeves Park Parade, carnival and live music.
Phoenixville Vintage Fest
MAY 30-31
40-plus vendors selling vintage clothing, jewelry and home goods
Phoenixville Art Street Festival
JUNE 13
70-plus artists and local entertainment.
PrideFest
Chester County
JUNE 20
Live music and performers, artists, vendors and food stands.
Blobfest
JULY 10
Screenings of “The Blob” and other horror classics, re-enactment of the “Run Out” scene from the movie at The Colonial Theatre, street fair and costume contests.
Activities Around Town
Bridge Street is a great destination for a day of shopping, although you may struggle to see everything in just one day. Phoenixville has curated vintage stores, like Great Scott Vintage and LuLu Boutique & Gifterie, the Reads & Company bookstore, and craft and gift shops. Silly Little Art Shop is a relatively new store on Main Street that sells craft supplies alongside art, jewelry and pins from local artists They also have craft kits that give you everything you need to try out a new project, like a beaded tapestry or watercolor painting. It’s the perfect place to buy craft supplies or try a new hobby. Here and Now Crafts and Perch Plants are similar destinations if you want to stock up on stationery, learn to build a terrarium or shop for unique gifts.
Even with all these options, if you’re a movie fan you would be remiss to spend a day in Phoenixville without visiting The Colonial Theatre, a historic landmark. Originally opened in 1902 as an opera house, the theater quickly began screening films, including the cult classic 1950s sci-fi horror movie “The Blob.” The theater is still in
operation today, screening a mix of modern releases and throwbacks. Occasionally throughout the year you can watch iconic movies of the silent film era, like “Metropolis” and “Nosferatu,” with live organ accompaniment, one of the few places in the country where you can still do so
There are also several nature trails in and around the town. The Schuylkill River Trail, a 120-mile stretch extending all the way through Center City, Philadelphia, runs right through town and has great, even pathways for biking and running. A short drive outside of Phoenixville, you can find Black Rock Sanctuary,
a wetland and meadow preserve with walking paths and educational stations about the nearby wildlife, and Valley Forge National Park, which features 30 miles of trails for walking, hiking and biking through historic landmarks. The Mount Misery and Horse- Shoe Trail loop offers a short but challenging scenic hike through forests, along the river and past stone ruins, which is beautiful in the summer
fo od and drink
If you’re coming into town early looking for breakfast, you will probably notice the line of patient pastry enthusiasts at 260 Bridge. The small bakery serves up coffees, lattes and breakfast sandwiches, but the main event is their freshly baked pastries The rotation of flavors varies from week to week, but you can always find unique and delicious baked goods like their strawberry dragonfruit “pop-tart,” French onion soup danish or a Philly cheesesteak croissant. Lines can be long and they do sell out fast, so if you’re interested make it your first stop
Another popular breakfast option is Steel City, a longstanding coffee shop that has been a staple on Bridge Street for the last 30 years. They have a large lunch and breakfast menu and are open late on Thursdays for live music and open mic nights The interior is casual and cozy, with plenty of seating
Lunch and dinner in town offer even more variety than breakfast, particularly if you’re a beer enthusiast. Phoenixville has a reputation as a brewery town, and you won’t be able to walk a block along Bridge Street without passing multiple microbreweries. Popular spots are Root Down, housed in an old expansive warehouse that also hosts flea markets and art shows, and Stable 12, which houses a dog-friendly beer garden in the warmer months. A beer flight and loaded fries at Stable 12 after a hike or bike ride makes for a perfect afternoon. Both brew their beer on site and have take-home can or crowler options.
Sit-down restaurant options include The Boardroom, known for its cocktails (all made with Boardroom Spirits out of Lansdale) and raw bar. A martini and a half dozen oysters before your main course makes a satisfying meal. Vintner's Table is a wine bar serving local Folino Estate Italian-style wines Their small plates and charcuterie boards pair great with their wine or mimosa flights. Bistro on Bridge is a large, two-story restaurant with an extensive beer and whisky list and an eclectic menu. Their pho is just as good as their smash burger.
Gemelli Artisanal Gelato is a great way to cap off the trip with a treat. They serve delicious award-winning gelato made with local ingredients and offer seasonal flavors throughout the year, including goat cheese and raspberry jam, ricotta and fig preserve, and lavender
Looking for a nightcap? Try Bluebird, which distills all their own spirits on-site. Their house cocktail list is full of inventive combinations like Campfire Chat, a whiskey cocktail with maple syrup and chocolate bitters that evokes eating a s’more roasted over the fire. Classic cocktails like the Sazerac, martini or old-fashioned are executed beautifully. If you’re tempted to try your own mixology at home, they have a small storefront selling their spirits.
A DELICIOUS LEGACY
Two years ago, Emily Gonzalez was enjoying the growing success of her Lancaster city-based business, GEMs catering, and not looking to put another iron in the fire. But then opportunity came knocking literally.
Gonzalez still recalls the day she got an Instagram message from Inna Kondramashin, the Ukrainian-Polish namesake and owner of Inna’s Pierogi Shop, who specialized in pierogi like her grandma used to make
Although they had never met, Kondramashin was interested in selling her business and asked if they could talk. As it turns out, Kondramashin had driven past the GEMs storefront on North Queen Street one day and decided to check out the website.
“She noticed that I share the same values as her, which is family,” Gonzalez says “Her priority was to focus on finding someone who would carry on the same
values and continue her legacy She wanted to find someone who could love the business as much as she loved it.”
She found that person in Gonzalez. After doing some research, which included working as an employee of Inna’s for a few weeks, Gonzalez decided that the business made financial sense. The fact that her friend, Michael Ortiz, was willing to join her as a partner, sealed the deal.
Today, Gonzalez and Ortiz are committed to ensuring that Inna’s legacy not only continues but grows. They’ve done that largely by expanding on what already existed: a stand at Lancaster Central Market; Inna’s Pierogi Shop, a restaurant and production facility at 811 Rothsville Road, Lititz; and a wholesale business that currently stocks Inna’s pierogi in the frozen food section of 12 stores and counting.
What makes this pierogi special?
At its heart, the success of Inna’s Pierogi Shop lies in the dough recipe, which is unique in that it’s vegan, Gonzalez notes Where pierogi dough is normally made with milk and sour cream, Inna’s uses vegan oat milk made in-house with organic oats They also use non- GMO flour and oleo, along with fresh cut potatoes, local sautéed fresh vegetables, and protein for filling.
“It’s completely different than the pierogi you would buy in the store,” Gonzalez says “What we created is a healthier one.”
Inna’s produces about 3,000 pierogi a week over two to three days of production The traditional flavors, such as potato onion
and potato cheddar, are still the most popular, but Gonzalez has added new flavors, like farmer ’s cheese, cherry and chicken bacon ranch, and new ways to enjoy them.
You can try a meat lover’s entree featuring some new non-traditional flavors like buffalo chicken, chicken cheesesteak and chicken bacon ranch. Additional entree options include vegetarian and hot and spicy. Or you can choose a Polish platter with potato cheddar pierogi served with local kielbasa and sauerkraut
In addition to the pierogi themselves, Gonzalez has expanded the topping options to include broccoli, mushrooms and peppers as well as chipotle and sweet chili sour cream.
Where to find them
If you want to enjoy a sit-down meal, get your Inna’s pierogi fix at the Lititz restaurant, next door to the Artisan Mill Company. Not sure what to try ? Gonzalez recommends the six-pierogi plate, where you can mix and match as many different flavors as you like.
The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating, with plans to expand both. You can also buy bagged pierogi, packed and frozen fresh at the Lititz location, to enjoy later.
“We get people from Virginia, North Carolina, New Jersey,” she says. “They’ll drive here with a cooler and buy 10 bags of pierogies. They’ll put it in a car with ice and drive home.”
Ready-to-eat meals are also available at the Inna’s Pierogi Shop
stand at Central Market Gonzalez and Ortiz opened a new and expanded stand last fall in a more prominent location, next to Mean Cup.
“Our sales have gone up over 70% from last year to this year, which is insane,” she says
Inna’s has also expanded its packaging and hopes to grow its wholesale accounts The pierogi are currently available at all Stauffers of Kissel Hill locations, Lemon Street Market, Harvest Lane Farm Market, Easton Public Market and several Philadelphia-area locations.
“I love being in stores and selling to anyone who is unable to come into our shop,” Gonzalez says.
Gonzalez recently opened GEMs Bodega & Cafe, the new neighborhood corner store on East Ross Street in February as a sales outlet for food she makes for her catering company. She hopes to carry Inna’s pierogi there in the future, so city customers can enjoy them on non-market days, too. But the bodega does sell ready-to-heat, homecooked meals and well as local coffee from Lancaster Coffee Roasters, which comes in handy when you’re a busy entrepreneur running three businesses.
Gonzalez says she loves handling all the behind-the-scenes operations of her businesses, and she’s learning to delegate more of the hands-on tasks.
“So far I think I’m doing pretty good,” she says
The Lititz location of Inna’s Pierogi Shop is open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday through Saturday. Or visit the Lancaster Central Market stand during regular market hours, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday, Friday and Saturday. Stores interested in carrying Inna’s can contact Gonzalez at 717-681-3309. For more information, visit innaspierogishop.com.
Spring is a time to shake off winter ’s chill, throw open the windows, and celebrate the return of more daylight hours and outdoor activities. Soon, those frigid days spent in front of a roaring fireplace or toasty wood or coal stove will be a distant memory. But before you forget those winter days altogether, add a chimney sweeping to your spring to-do list.
Preventive care for your chimney is just as important as preventive care for your own health. Your chimney system works hard to vent smoke, combustion gases and other byproducts like creosote, a tar-like substance created from the smoke and chemicals released by burning wood.
Creosote is highly flammable. It can build up in your chimney over time, creating a danger for chimney fires and affecting the air quality in your home. A professional chimney sweep not only removes that buildup but also helps to identify any cracks, blockages or other damage before it becomes costly or dangerous.
Chimney sweeps and inspections should be done at least once a year more often if a fire is hard to light or burns poorly, you notice smoke in the home when the fire is lit or a smoky odor when not in use. While you may be tempted to put off chimney care until the cold-weather season rolls around again, here are a few reasons to take care of it now instead:
EASIER TO SC HEDULE:
There’s often a rush for chimney sweeps in the fall when cooler temperatures arrive. Scheduling a sweep for the spring means you won’t have to wait for service when it’s time to use your fireplace or stove.
FEWER ODORS:
Creosote buildup, combined with summer ’s heat and humidity, can cause some unpleasant odors. A good sweep will improve air quality in your home for the rest of the year.
SA
FETY:
It’s always tempting to light a fire when you feel that first nip in the air in early autumn. You won’t have to resist that temptation if you’ve already had your chimney swept and inspected in the spring.
MAI NTENANCE TI ME:
If damage is found, there will be plenty of time to make repairs over the warmer months when you don’t need to use your fireplace or stove. You can also save money with a spring inspection, so schedule one today.
Brightside Chimney & Heating offers chimney sweeping and inspection services for homeowners in Lancaster and surrounding counties. They also specialize in installing stainless steel liners, chimneys, chimney chases and rain caps, as well as woodstoves, pellet stoves and inserts To schedule chimney maintenance, call 717-925-7272
CHIMNEY CAPS
PELLET & WO OD STOV ES
STAINLESS ST EEL LINER
SECONDHAND FO R
fashion for spring FAVO R IT ES
BY LINDSEY MCCALLUM PHOTOS BY QUINN STALEY
Irecently saw a woman wearing cropped tan cargo pants, high white socks with black polka dots, and black loafers. She looked effortlessly cool. I could never think up an outfit like that or have the confidence to wear it.
Fashion can be overwhelming, and even a little confusing. I’ve been fascinated with fashion since playing dress-up as a kid. I still love to watch trends on runways, in magazines, on celebrities, and in local boutiques. But the older I get, the more difficult it feels to keep up with the trends and feel confident while doing so.
I could not get into the crew sock style of late I am the millennial mom at pickup with my ankle socks and sneaks I still can’t wrap my head around barrel jeans, I cannot pull off the slick middle-part ponytail, and I am just never going to be a cowboy boot kind of girl. Lately I have settled into a core wardrobe that repeats classic pieces for each season, but I try to add some trends using accessories. It doesn’t feel like it’s trying too hard, and I still feel comfortable whether it’s a work meeting, running errands or a dinner with friends
Here are my must-have pieces, that I will also splurge on if I find the perfect fit or material: a great-fitting pair of jeans, a super soft sweater in a neutral color, black trousers, the perfect white tee and a classic black shirt. If denim isn’t your favorite, switch that out for a great pair of black trousers. I found a pair with an elastic waist. They have the structure of dress pants but the comfort of loungewear so I can wear them to work dressed up, or with sneakers to run around.
When in doubt you can never go wrong with all black. It always looks chic and no one will notice if it’s the same black top they saw you wearing last time. Even heading in to spring it still works, just add a splash of color a turquoise necklace, a bold shoe, a bright colored bag, etc. If all black in warmer weather doesn’t sound appealing, flip it and wear all white. Just as classy and you can add color the same ways
When you have those essentials that fit well and feel comfortable, you can add your own style from there. You can dress up a basic white tee or add color to an all-black ensemble.
Running errands
Lunch
A blazer, laptop bag, and a bold huggie earring will dress up the plain white tee for work.
Trends from local experts
Brooches are back
Layton Barnard, owner of Boutique Rituals on Oregon Pike, sa “Now brooches are being used for more than just putting them on your sweater. Use on a scarf, on your purse, to hold an oversized sweater. Whatever you can think of. From bold modern styles to your grandmother ’s hand-me-down, they are all great accessories.”
Make a statement
Amanda Sides, store manager and buyer at Lancaster ’s Three Little Birds Boutique, says statement jewelry is back. Look for chunkier statement jewelry - bigger pieces that really stand out, she said.
Beach vibes
Another fun trend for spring: coastal accents “Nautical and Mediterranean-inspired pieces are everywhere right now,” Sides said. “Think fish and shell details showing up on necklaces, bracelets and earrings.”
Think pastels
Mindy Donecker Beatty, owner of MinD’s Boutique in Lititz, notes “colors of periwinkle, aqua and peach with splashes of color But also balanced with neutrals in many shades of tan, light olive and cream.”
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