YRK Magazine, Summer 2021

Living

by

aking a

SUMMER '21 / YORK, PA

Take Me, I’m Free

M

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Making a Living by Making a Difference : Smith Wealth Advisory Group

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Ambitious Caban: Doing Good, Tryna Do Better : Cultural Alliance of York County

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When a Bouquet is More Than Just a Bouquet : CGA Law Firm

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Getting Away is a Given at Revival Social Club : Revival Social Club

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Making York’s Water Cleaner and Healthier for All : Watershed Alliance of York

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New Name. New Look. Same Traditions. : Traditions Bank

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ONE Hospitality Group: Is Expanding Its Empire Beyond York Roots : ONE Hospitality Group

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You Can Have it Made Here : Explore York

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For Affordable Housing Advocates it’s All in the Name : Affordable Housing Advocates

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Together We Grow : House of Yoga

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Latinos Unidos Envisions a More Empowered York : Latinos Unidos

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York, PA. A Place to Live, Work, and Thrive : YRK Magazine

@YRKMagazine /YRKMagazine @yrkmagazine info@yrkmagazine.com yrkmagazine.com

Ideas, questions, advertise, etc. Contact YRK: bre@lumicreates.com YRK LLC has made every attempt to ensure that all information contained in this publication has been obtained from reliable sources, but all such information is provided “as is” with no guarantee of completeness or accuracy. The views of contributors and advertisers do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of YRK LLC. YRK LLC cannot be held liable for errors or omissions contained in, or reliance made upon, the contents of this publication. Content may be paid advertisement placement.

Copyright: YRK 2021 © YRK LLC. All rights reserved. Photography or page layout contained in YRK should not be reproduced, in whole or in part, without the specific written permission of YRK LLC.

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YRK SUMMER 2021 EDITION CREDITS: Publisher : Breanna Shorten

Executive Editor & Art Director: Rebecca Tibbits Managing Editor: Marley Dahlheimer Digital Marketing Manager: Kate Knox Contributing Designer: Theresa Quedenfeld

Thank you

for supporting our small business!

All good things must come to an end, or sometimes, like in this case, a pause. YRK Magazine will take a break through 2021, but will be back with new stories to share in 2022. With our 30th (yes you read that right) issue, we have reflected on our past 8 years as York’s story-tellers and we are so incredibly grateful for everyones support! From our readers, supporters, investors, long-time and new advertisers we are so thankful for every one of you for allowing us to be apart of your jourrney through York and the surrounding areas!

In this issue you will discover the most relaxing outdoor oasis at Revival (page 12), explore how one florist really benefited from seeking help from a local law firm (page 10) and learn how one grant changed an entrepreneur’s life (page 08)! Check out these stories and more. Keep supporting local busisness and making York better every day!

Until next time,

Rebecca Daubert Executive Editor & Art Director

A

production lumicreates.com @lumi.agency

/LumiMrktg

Contributing Writers: Rachel Curry Michael Vyskocil Photographers: John Williams Eric Forberger Lyndon Eugene Amanda Naylor Allison Witherow Visual Impact Group & Bold Creative Seth Shimkonis Cover photograph: John Williams

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smith wealth advisory group writer michael vyskocil photographer john williams

Making a Living by

Making a Difference Forbes, Financial Times recognize Kevin J. Smith for exemplary wealth advisory services

York can be proud that one of Pennsylvania’s and the nation’s premier advisors is a product of the local community. Recently, Kevin J. Smith was named to both the Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Advisors list and the Financial Times list of Top 400 Financial Advisors nationwide. These distinguished honors, based upon numerous qualitative and quantitative criteria, spotlight advisors that encompass the highest standards of best practices and represent the best of the financial services profession.

“

Forbes and Financial Times recognitions underscore his commitment to making a difference in the lives of his clients...

“I am honored and humbled to have been named to the Forbes list of Best Pennsylvania Wealth Advisors and the Financial Times list of Top 400 Financial Advisors in the country,” Kevin says. “I’m blessed to love what I do, to have made my passion my vocation and to work with a phenomenal team. I’m also grateful beyond words to have such wonderful clients who make it all possible and personally meaningful. Receiving such recognition is as much if not more a reflection of them than of me.”

For Kevin, these Forbes and Financial Times recognitions underscore his commitment to making a difference in the lives of his clients through trusted financial guidance and

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advice. He credits his upbringing for shaping the values upon which his wealth advisory practice was built.

Childhood trips with his grandfather to meet with his financial advisor first inspired Kevin’s career interest to help people in a similar manner. Through his mother’s example, he learned the importance of hard work, perseverance, compassion and serving a purpose greater than his own. Although Kevin lost his grandfather in 1986 and his mother in 2010, their legacies endure in the mission and values that have distinguished Smith Wealth Advisory Group of Janney Montgomery Scott, LLC as the premier wealth management firm it has become.

Together with Alyssum M. Keefer, Vice President – Wealth Management and Branch Manager, and Tyler L. Lerman, Financial Advisor, Kevin and his team apply their collective expertise in a manner that enables their clients to not only optimize their monetary wealth, but also fully appreciate the riches of life itself.

In the midst of the coronavirus pandemic affecting the nation and the world, Kevin acknowledges the strength and resilience demonstrated by his clients in the midst of such challenging times. “In times of crisis, it’s natural to turn to family for comfort and support.

“

We consider our clients to be an extension of our family, and words can never properly convey our heartfelt love and appreciation.

We want our clients to know that we are always here for them. Whether they realize it or not, it gives us considerable solace and comfort to know that they are always there for us.”

Reflecting on his life’s avocation and the well-being of his clients, Kevin acknowledges, “True wealth has little to do with money. It’s a state of mind centered upon happiness and contentment. It’s memories and experiences with friends, family and those you love. It’s finding meaning and purpose, pursuing passions, chasing dreams and embracing life for all it has to offer. Given the pandemic, now more than ever I believe we all have a newfound appreciation of what true wealth is all about.”

YRK PERSPECTIVES:

How has the York community supported the growth of your small business and what is your hope for York County in the next five years?

“I believe the local community tends to rally behind its own. People generally prefer to work with someone they know and trust. As a native of York County, the person I am today is largely because of being raised in a supportive home community with solid smalltown values. I’ve built my business upon these same values, and the community has responded accordingly for which I’m quite grateful and proud. My hope is that York County will maintain its unique small community charm, and continue to thrive and prosper in a manner that similarly resonates with others as it has with me throughout my lifetime.”

—Kevin Smith, Executive Vice President – Wealth Management/Financial Advisor, Smith Wealth Advisory Group of Janney Montgomery Scott, LLC

2315 N. SUSQUEHANNA TRAIL, SUITE A YORK, PA 17404 717.779.2769 /smithwealthadvisory smithwealthadvisory.com Member: NYSE, FINRA, SIPC

Ambitious Caban:

doing good,

tryna do

better

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cultural alliance of york county writer rachel curry photographer lyndon eugene

Why “peace is worth so much more than wealth” to 2020 Artist Innovator Award winner Ambitious Caban

As a cross-genre musician who cares deeply about her craft, Ana Mercado—who goes by the name Ambitious Caban—felt validated when she received the first-ever Artist Innovator Award from the Cultural Alliance of York County. With that award came $10,000 and countywide recognition as one of York’s most prominent movers an d shak er s.

Months later, Mercado has made some marked shifts in how she approaches her life, her barbershop, and her music.

“I feel as though I’ve gotten 100 percent out of barbering because I gave barbering 100 percent, so I can only get 100 percent out of my music career if I give 100 percent back to myself,” Mercado says.

With that realization came a professional pivot. In the long term, Mercado aims to go full-time with music. Until then, she’s partnering with her sister, owner of Picalonga Sabor Tropical in York, and relocating Royal Court Barber Lounge from its Pine and Philly stomping grounds.

The word “caban” comes from the Latin word capanna.

In some Spanish-speaking cultures, the name was given to poor farmers who lived in modest housing. For her, the name Ambitious Caban is anything but an oxymoron.

“I’m an entrepreneur, I’m an artist, but mainly I would like people to see me as someone who wants better for our community,” Mercado says.

I’m an entrepreneur, I’m an artist, but mainly I would like people to see me as someone who wants better for our community,” Mercado says.

Lyrics like “peace is worth so much more than wealth” from her song Lor Baby and “I’ve been fighting with the darkness in my mind” from Who I Am show the real s ide of Mercado, who believes we could a ll u s e a bit m ore em pathy.

Since receiving the Artist Innovator Award, Mercado has been honing her craft, and she refuses to chain herself down to any one genre. Reenergized with the gusto to make R&B, hip-hop, Spanish or even gospel music, Mercado says, “I just hope that I can add value to my city and take this to the next level.”

Artists have until the end of August to apply for the 2021 Artist Innovator Award. Visit culturalyork.org for more information. Fans can keep up with Ambitious Caban on Instagram at the handle: @ambitious_caban

YRK PERSPECTIVES:

What is your hope for York County in the next five years?

“We hope to reframe the perception of the arts from “nice” to “necessary.” In 5 years time we will see artists working in healthcare settings to speed up healing and improve outcomes, artists using their talents to bridge the civic and racial divide that we see in our county, and a bounceback of our local economy fueled by the creative sector.”

— Rita Whitney, Director of Communications & Engagement, Cultural Alliance of York County

2536 EASTERN BLVD, PMB 402 YORK, PA 17402 717.812.9255 /culturalallianceyork @culturalyork culturalyork.org

WHEN A BOUQUET IS MORE THAN JUST A

BOUQUET For Amanda Witmer of Everyone Deserves Flowers, family takes precedence—but passion is a close second For many of us, our professional trajectory has taken many of twists and turns. For Amanda Witmer, owner and head designer of Everyone Deserves Flowers in York, it has always included flowers.

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cga law firm writer rachel curry photographer amanda naylor

It has been years since Witmer designed her own wedding (“I don’t recommend anyone doing that,” she says) and she now plans and executes more than 60 events per year.

Witmer makes the magic happen, in a garage that she converted into a workspace—a convenience that saved her big time after the birth of her youngest daughter. Days after giving birth, she prepped wedding flowers while her baby slept and was able to put up an arch on the bride’s big day, just over a week after her delivery. “I honestly have such a dedication to my brides,” Witmer says emphatically.

“It doesn’t matter what’s thrown our way, we’re going to make this work for you.”

From her first job ever working in a flower shop to operating her own wedding flower and decoration business, passion remained at the core. Somewhere along the line, Witmer, pictured above, started a blog called Everyone Deserves Flowers that talked a little about design, but mostly about mom life. Eventually, the blog withered, but the wedding flower business took off. “It ended up becoming what it is today just completely accidentally,” Witmer says.

Today, Witmer is known by brides across the county for her communication, reliability and—of course— timeless style.

Witmer says, “My personal style is light and airy.

I love working with neutrals and just making classic elements that you’re not going to look back in 10 years and wonder, ‘Why did I use orange and purple together?’”

Through her work with Attorney Haley Rohrbaugh at CGA Law Firm, pictured here, Witmer has been able to ensure she’s covering all the business bases.

Witmer says, “Through COVID and these unprecedented times, I wasn’t sure where my business stood with its written contract. I wanted to make sure Everyone Deserves Flowers was covering all important points in our written agreement.” Haley, Witmer says, has kept her business’ best interest at heart, making her partnership with CGA feel more like a genuine friendship than anything.

Photo provided

by CGA Law Firm

It doesn’t matter what’s thrown our way, we’re going to make this work for you.”

Witmer has built a name for herself, earning a spot in Susquehanna Style’s Best of York awards, and partnering with local venues like John Wright, Historic Ashland, and The Booking House, where Everyone Deserves Flowers is a preferred vendor.

– Amanda Witmer, Owner & Head Designer, Everyone Deserves Flowers

YRK PERSPECTIVES:

What is your hope for York County in the next five years?

“My hope for York County in the next 5-years is that we continue to come together to make it a safer, more diverse and inclusive place to live, work, and visit. I hope we continue to embrace change for the better. We have, as a community, made great strides toward these goals and I see a bright and colorful future ahead for York County.”

— Haley Rohrbaugh, Attorney at CGA Law Firm

135 N. GEORGE ST. YORK, PA 17401 717.848.4900 /CGALawFirm cgalaw.com

Getting Away is a Given at Revival Social Club Their new outdoor space is a staycation in downtown York.

What if you could find the respite of a Mexican tiki bar or a Parisian outdoor café without going beyond downtown York?

You can—and it’s at Revival Social Club’s new outdoor space at the corner of George St. and E. Market St. Owner and manager Jessica Ayala helped design the space, which is chock full of warm lighting, tiki lanterns, eclectic vases, flowers and foliage.

Her inspiration? Outdoor bars in Tulum, which she says make you feel “warm and embodied by all of the things around you.”

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revival social club writer rachel curry photographer eric forberger

Just a waltz down the sidewalk from Revival’s indoor restaurant, this staycation space comes at the perfect time.

Social atmospheres are opening back up, and being able to kick back with a great view of York’s most striking intersection feels like a reward for making it through.

While the gardenstyle atmosphere is unbeatable, that’s not even the best part about Revival’s outdoor space. It’s the servers delivering craft cocktails and refreshing meals to your table.

Full of clever names like Chartreuse or Dare and Kisses in the Car, the drink menu is teeming with exotic ingredients. Cocktails come in tall glasses and satisfy a spectrum of palates, from fruity to oaky.

“When we’re creating our cocktails, it’s going off of taste and smell and presentation,” says Jessica, likening the creations to an art form. Revival rotates the menu every few months, keeping things exciting like a real staycation adventure.

According to Jessica, Revival’s riskiest cocktail is called El Chapo, born from cilantro-infused tequila, smoked corn puree, Amaro Nonino, lime juice, and agave chipotle syrup.

It doesn’t matter if it’s mid-week lunch amid the busy business district or Friday night dinner as the sun sets. Revival’s outdoor space paired with a delectable cocktail makes for an authentic getaway—without leaving downtown York. For Jessica, that’s everything.

She says, “It very much is all about everybody coming together to make York a better place.”

It very

much is all

about everybody coming together to make York a better place.

– Jessica Ayala Owner & Manager, Revival Social Club

YRK PERSPECTIVES:

What is your hope for York County in the next five years?

“The struggles of the past year have shown us how many people and things are slipping through the cracks not just in the restaurant industry but all over. I hope we continue to find ways to give ourselves some grace, collaborate and lift up each other.”

19 NORTH GEORGE ST. YORK, PA 17401 717.430.2981 /RevivalYork @revivalsocialclubyork

— Jessica Ayala, Owner & Manager, Revival Social Club

revivalsocialclubyork.com

Making York’s Water Cleaner and Healthier for All HOW WATERSHED ALLIANCE OF YORK PLAYS A MAJOR ROLE IN OUR COUNTY’S ENVIRONMENT When you make a positive difference in your community, the impact often ripples out beyond the immediate border. The folks at Watershed Alliance of York (WAY) know this firsthand. York’s six main watersheds are interconnected with other counties, other states, and the ecosystem at large.

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watershed alliance of york writer rachel curry photographer eric forberger

Rachel Stahlman, York Countywide Action Plan Coordinator, says WAY’s mission is “making York’s water cleaner and healthier for all.” It’s that simple, yet the initiatives that make it happen are anything but.

Those initiatives include working with residents to resolve destructive habits, like overusing pesticides or fertilizers. They also want to help landowners transition from rolling hills of mowed grass to meadows, plant native plants in stormwater basins, and build fences to keep cows out of streams.

These efforts are just the start.

“It’s a variety of different things, but the goal of all of those things is making the water of our community better,” says Stahlman.

WAY is made up of a team of steadfast team members working tirelessly to bring awareness to and improve the health of York’s watersheds. There’s Emily Neideigh, Watershed Specialist for York County Conservation District, who helped to rejuvenate WAY into the growing organization it is today.

Jodi Sulpizio, Master Watershed Steward Coordinator for Penn State Extension, championed a watershed forestry subcommittee.

Her efforts will help plant buffers and convert lawns to meadows all across the county.

And Lettice Brown, MS4 Coordinator for the City of York, is another person who “really lives her life with water quality in mind,” as Stahlman puts it.

From the Greener Codorus Initiative to Watershed Week, there’s no end to the impact that WAY and York’s other eco-minded organizations can have. There are plenty of avenues for locals to get involved as a committee member or volunteer, but people can always join WAY’s mailing list or follow them on social if they just want to get acquainted.

With WAY in mind, Stahlman reminds us that York is teeming with people who appreciate the environment.

Moreover, it’s brimming with opportunities to put that awareness into something that will make a lasting change in York—and well beyond the county bounds.

Then there’s Master Watershed Steward Cindy Pizziketti, who recently received an award for 1,000 hours of volunteer work, all for water quality.

It's a variety of different things, but the goal of all of those things is making the water of our community better.

– Rachel Stahlman, Coordinator, York Countywide Action Plan

YRK PERSPECTIVES:

What is your hope for York County in the next five years?

“Our hope for York County in the next five years is improved water quality and a better community understanding of how our actions impact our water.”

— Rachel Stahlman, Coordinator, York Countywide Action Plan

2401 PLEASANT VALLEY RD. YORK, PA 17402 717.840.7430 /WatershedAllianceofYorkPa @wayorkpa watershedallianceofyork.org

New Name. New Look.

Same Traditions.

Traditions are more than dates on a calendar. They’re the moments that bring us together. For all of us, traditions are an opportunity to make our mark on the people and places we love the most.

York Traditions Bank was created in 2002 to help the individuals and businesses in their hometown succeed. The founders envisioned a community bank that would grow right alongside their friends and neighbors. Now, they are helping folks throughout the Susquehanna Valley under a new moniker: Traditions Bank.

Gene Draganosky, president and CEO of Traditions Bank, has been part of the local organization since 2008. Draganosky says, “While the name and logo have changed—who we are, what we stand for, and what our customers and communities experience have remained the same.”

The new Traditions Bank logo is one of deep meaning. A six-part cube represents the original core values the bank was built upon. Their refreshed values include things that were implied but never spelled out, like equity and inclusion and community commitment. Draganosky says, “These updates make our core values even more impactful.”

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traditions bank writer rachel curry photographer john williams

Within the logo, the subtle presence of the letters T and B can be spotted, as well as the letter Y at the very center, a nod to their York roots. As Draganosky says, “We never want to lose sight of where we started.”

“For us, it’s more than just processing your checks and making loans. It is a higher calling,” says Draganosky. “It’s about people serving people. It’s about making a difference in people’s lives.”

That’s where Tradition Bank’s new tagline, “Make your Mark,” originates. Financial guidance can change your life. Making educated decisions can make your dreams come true.

With a new branch in Lancaster, plus a presence in Harrisburg and Hanover, Traditions Bank looks forward to helping people realize their aspirations beyond the bounds of county lines. For Draganosky, the Susquehanna River is not a great divide between communities, but rather a unifier. To remain independent, he recognizes the importance of growth.

“Typically, when banks are acquired, the things that they stand for—their values, their culture—are going to change,” he says. “We want to remain independent. We want to continue serving all the communities we serve with local support and decision making.”

R E A L R E L AT I O N S H I P S

EXQUISITE EXPERIENCES

STRONG PERFORMANCE

PERSONAL GROWTH

EQUITY & INCLUSION

COMMUNITY COMMITMENT

TRUE TEAMWORK

Draganosky and his team of associates at Traditions Bank are committed to helping people make their mark in the world their own way—and that transcends geographic boundaries.

While the name and logo have changed – who we are, what we stand for, and what our customers and communities experience have remained the same.

– Gene Draganosky, President & CEO, Traditions Bank

YRK PERSPECTIVES:

How has the York community helped Traditions Bank make your mark?

“However they define success, York’s individuals and businesses allow us to play a small role in helping them achieve it. They are the reason for our success and growth. Helping them make their mark on the world is how we make ours.”

— Gene Draganosky, President & CEO, Traditions Bank

226 PAULINE DRIVE YORK, PA 17402 717.747.2600 /TraditionsBankPA @traditionsbank traditions.bank Member FDIC | Equal Opportunity Lender

Is Expanding Its Empire Beyond York Roots

CEO TONI CALDERONE’S PLANS TO FRANCHISE, PLUS HER EXCITING NEW CROWDFUNDING TOOL How does one restaurant turn into a regional empire? Ask Toni Calderone, CEO of ONE Hospitality Group and owner of a whole slew of restaurants. What started as Tutoni’s soon blossomed into a mesh of local favorites including Aviano’s, The Cantina, and Presto Fast Italian.

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one hospitality group writer rachel curry photographer allison witherow

Toni’s calculated business moves led to one of her latest ventures: Fresh, two-ingredient pasta that’s available for e-commerce purchase through Tutoni’s Flour Shop.

The quick-service model for her Presto restaurants is a blossoming empire, too. “Now I really focus on Presto.” Toni says it was the first concept she ever developed when I was in high school. She failed entrepreneurship class over the idea. Now, she plans to franchise the business beyond its current six locations. With a build-your-own pasta model with Tutoni’s Flour Shop pasta as the base for every dish, how could you go wrong?

Toni was always a part of the restaurant industry.

Her grandparents, originally from Sicily, opened the first pizzeria in York County. It was so novel that her grandmother had to teach locals how to hold a slice of pizza. Her father was in the food business, too.

“Everything at ONE more or less revolves around the noodle.”

– ALLISON

As ONE’s Chief Marketing Officer Allison Witherow puts it, “Pasta runs in their blood.”

Toni has even more plans in the work. She expects to sell shares of Presto to the local market through RaisedStake.com, an equity crowdfunding site seeking SEC approval later this year.

Toni says it’s a disruptive tool that will change the way her industry gets financed. “I want to first prove the concept with my community before I offer it publicly to other aspiring restaurateurs,” she says.

“Small business was a passion of my father’s. Before he passed we were working on our legacy, and now that I’ve lost him, I have nothing to lose. I’m on a mission to finish what we started with RaisedStake.com, a tool that will help others to build their community.”

– TONI

“Your community wants to see you thrive, so they get a return on it.”

– TONI ONE plans to continue revitalizing York, and they’re starting with a new 15-room boutique hotel downtown. But the franchising capabilities of Presto, e-commerce potential of Tutoni’s Flour Shop and industry-shifting reach of RaisedStake.com all put ONE on a much wider stage.

“If you surround yourself with people just as hungry and smarter than you. The possibilities are endless. ” – TONI

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“It’s just a true love for our hometown.”

– ALLISON

The Foundation for

Scratch Pasta

JUST TWO INGREDIENTS: (it’s vegan!)

+

RIG-A-TONI

ONE’s Sinatra-blaring pasta truck used for product research and development

+

HANDMADE, FRESH, QUICK-COOKING

pasta sold at Presto Fast Italian and across the nation through their Tutoni’s Flour Shop e-commerce site

YRK PERSPECTIVES:

What is your hope for York County in the next five years?

“I’d love to see more of the county to come and experience what those of us in the city have been working diligently on with our restaurants, shopping, events and entertainment. I stayed here from Florida to contribute to the change happening, and although we have come a long way, we have much farther to go. The more patrons, the more the growth for our city!”

— Toni Calderone, CEO, ONE Hospitality Group

1 S. GEORGE ST. YORK, PA 17401 717.804.4118 /onehospgroup @onehospitalityyork onehospitality.group

You Can Have It MADE HERE

Why York’s local businesses are becoming part of something bigger

When I walk through farmer’s market aisles, I feel a sense of camaraderie with business owners and fellow shoppers. I may not know the names of most of the people around me, but it feels like we all belong. All throughout York County, the network of local businesses feels much the same.

What does that say about York? According to Melissa Beaverson, Director of Destination Marketing for Explore York, it says one thing clear: Have it made here.

“You can have memories made here, history was made here, families and fun all can be made here,” says Melissa. And you can have your products and services made here, too.

This slogan, “Have it made here,” encapsulates what York is all about. When businesses begin to adopt this unified, county-wide branding, residents and tourists will be better able to spot and support local businesses.

For brands like Peter Danko Design, Gusa by Victoria and Taqueria El Camino, “Have it made here” resonates. And why wouldn’t it? The slogan carries that age-old dogma of the farmer’s market that practically says, “We’re happy you’re here.

Come see what we’ve got!”

Imagine driving throughout York County and seeing billboards, signage, packaging and murals, all carrying this unifying slogan. To think your business or your favorite local spots are a part of that movement is an invigorating feeling. Plus, we’re all buyers, so relying on “have it made here” branding makes it easier to buy local.

At the end of the day, York is a place burgeoning with talent, innovation, and a whole slew of artisan-makers and local businesses. We’d all be remiss not to see just how much we have it made here.

Over the last year and a half, people have realized how impactful small businesses are across America and in our own county. If there were ever a time to embrace that heritage, it’s now.

Taqueria El Camino

This is a chance to be part of a community working together with a unified message to visitors and locals about our wonderful county.”

– Melissa Beaverson, Director of Destination Marketing, Explore York

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explore york writer rachel curry photographer visual impact group and bold creative

Peter Danko Design

Gusa by Victoria

YRK PERSPECTIVES:

What is your hope for York County in the next five years?

“My hope for York County over the next five years is to see the community come together and embrace our county brand. It is more than just a logo, branded colors, and a tagline. It is a way for our community to show the world we are a welcoming destination that actively works together to make our area as accessible as possible to visitors.”

— Laura Gurreri, President, Explore York

SM

60 E. NORTH ST. YORK, PA 17401 888.858.9675 /ExploreYorkPA @exploreyorkpa HaveItMadeHere.com

FOR

IT’S ALL IN THE NAME After helping lowincome residents for the last 50 years, AHA plans to make York more livable for all

We can’t do it by ourselves.

– Joyce Sant iago, Exec utive Direc tor, Affor dable Hous ing Advo cates

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Affordable Housing Advocates (AHA) may be a new name to you, but this moniker is just a refresh for a non-profit organization that’s been championing low- and moderate-income York residents for the last 50 years.

Formerly the York Area Housing Group, AHA works to enhance the quality of lives and communities by advocating for, creating, and sustaining affordable housing options. Their new name better reflects their mission and helps differentiate them from other organizations in the area.

Joyce Santiago, Executive Director of AHA, has a personal connection with affordable housing. She grew up in public housing is “someone who lived through and understands the struggle.”

According to the Housing Alliance of Pennsylvania, the hourly wage you need to afford a one-bedroom unit in York County is $14.21, but the average renter wage in the area is only $13.49.

“Until those gaps are bridged between what people actually earn and what they have to pay to support themselves, we have an issue,” says Santiago.

affordable housing advocates writer rachel curry photographer eric forberger

AHA was originally founded in 1971 following the York race riots of the late 1960s.

Equity has always been at the core of the organization’s values, and their new branding better reflects that.

Moving forward, AHA will continue to support York County by adding to their hundreds of rental units, some of which have built-in subsidies, and all of which are at or under fair market value. They’ll also expand their homeownership opportunities by bringing in more funding and collaborating with homeownership counseling programs.

Meanwhile, AHA is working to develop solutions following the end of eviction moratoriums put in place during the pandemic.

Whatever the goal, Santiago knows this: “The problem is too big for ego.” That’s why AHA advocates for anyone who can help bring affordable housing to York.

“Our ultimate vision is to be the recognized leaders in creating quality, life-changing, diverse housing options throughout York County,” she says. “But we can’t do it by ourselves.”

YRK PERSPECTIVES:

What is your hope for York County in the next five years?

“To increase availability of quality affordable housing stock and to bridge the gap between housing costs and wages earned.”

— Joyce Santiago, Executive Director, Affordable Housing Advocates

3 RATHON ROAD YORK, PA 17403 717.846.5139 /AffordableHousing AdvocatesYork @ahadvocates ahadvocates.org

TOGETHER WE GROW

HOUSE OF YOGA’S DONATION-BASED STUDIO IS THRIVING IN YORK CITY What happens when you give people the option not to pay?

Jackie Dahlheimer, owner of House of Yoga, ran this experiment in her own life. What she found was that people did pay for donation-based yoga services and House of Yoga was then able to provide support to those who needed it.

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house of yoga writer rachel curry photographer seth shimkonis

Dahlheimer built her donation-based yoga studio from the outside in, garnering community support well before anything was official. In 2016, she landed in her original Market Street location with the support of dedicated teachers and students who helped House of Yoga raise funds for their business license, security deposit, and all the other fees that accompany a new business. “All of that was generated by the small community of people that we had started to grow,” she says.

Recently, Dahlheimer purchased the adjacent building to the original House of Yoga. “We just kept praying for the space next

door to open up,” she says. “And then one day, it did.” She cut a doorway to combine the spaces and expanded the small studio to a 3,000-foot building that includes a retail area.

House of Yoga operates on three guiding principles: Take what you need, give what you can, and there’s always enough. For Dahlheimer, this isn’t just about money, but overall support.

Above all else, Dahlheimer’s donation-based operation is about inclusivity. “What I knew when I started teaching yoga is that yoga needed to be accessible for everyone,” she says.

When the community bands together to give and receive support, Dahlheimer says, “Somehow we all just feel abundant.”

House of Yoga offers classes and workshops to help people ground themselves and clear their heads, bearing in mind the trauma and unrest many people still carry from the pandemic. Anyone can join their restorative classes, multi-week chakra series, or other offerings in person or online.

As she expands her studio, Dahlheimer understands that the space is a byproduct of the thriving community from which it was born. She says, “House of Yoga is proof that, at our core, humans are good and kind.”

HOUSE OF YOGA IS PROOF THAT, AT OUR CORE, HUMANS ARE GOOD AND KIND. – Jackie Dahlheimer, Owner, House of Yoga

YRK PERSPECTIVES:

What is your hope for York County in the next five years?

“Oh man I love this town. It’s got heart. My hope for York City is that it continues to thrive, continues to be a hub for artists, free thinkers and innovators.”

— Jackie Dahlheimer, Owner, House of Yoga

19 W. MARKET ST. YORK, PA 17401 717.793.2393 /HouseofYogaYork @houseofyogayork houseofyogayork.com

LATINOS UNIDOS

Envisions a More Empowered York How one organization is building a structure to uplift Latinos and York as a whole It’s one thing to gather a few survey responses. It’s another thing to take a grassroots approach and meet people where they’re at. For Latinos Unidos of York, the latter method is where the real change occurs.

Jose Santiago, Chair at Latinos Unidos, says, “We spend a lot of time in neighborhoods talking to families and finding out what their actual needs are.”

For the past few years, the team at Latinos Unidos has been working on a lofty mission: empowering the Latino community and strengthening bonds to promote social, civic, and economic integration of Latino families in York.

One of the key ways they’re doing this is by developing a partner network of services that can help community members. Angie

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latinos unidos of york writer rachel curry photographer eric forberger

Garrison, Secretary of Latinos Unidos, says, “The services are already available. It’s just bringing the people to where they need to be.”

The organization’s new Ambassadors Program helps to connect the Latino community through events, bringing awareness to issues that the organization can address, and fostering a sense of community empowerment.

Latinos Unidos also has a talent pipeline to build the professional network of Latinos workers in York, as well as a rating system designed to inform community members of the quality of services available to them. They collaborate with community partners to hold events like Spanish children’s book drives, conversational Spanish classes for York City’s police and fire departments, and even Second Friday Latino nights at varying locations in York.

SPONSORE D BY

LEFT TO RIGHT: Jonell Ruiz, Sandra Quinones-Hemphill, Delma Lytle, Liliana G. Fisher, José Santiago, José D. Colón-Bones, and Angie Garrison

Through all this work, Santiago and Garrison hope to achieve a vibrant, connected Latino community that reaches its full potential. With a growing team of volunteers and board members (including Vice Chair Delma Rivera, Treasurer Jose Colon-Bones, Liliana Garcia-Fisher, Sandra Quinones, and Jonell Ruiz), they’re picking up steam.

All of the people working tirelessly to make an impact through Latinos Unidos are volunteers with full-time jobs and busy personal lives. As Santiago reckons, “It’s all about serving community. It’s not about us.”

Find out about what Latinos Unidos of York is planning at facebook.com/LatinosUnidosofYork.

It’s all about serving community.

It’s not about us.”

– Jose Santiago, Chair, Latinos Unidos

YRK PERSPECTIVES:

What is your hope for York County in the next five years?

“Latinos Unidos’s hope for the York Latino community is that they are connecting to resources with more confidence and ease. Also, that our partner organizations will have the correct information to meet those ever changing and growing needs. LU hopes that our efforts will foster a more united and understanding York County.”

— Jose Santiago, Chair, Latinos Unidos

2 W. MARKET ST. YORK, PA 17401 INFO@LATINOSUNIDOS.ORG /LatinosUnidosofYork @latinosunidosyork latinosunidosofyork.org

YORK, pennsylvania A place to live, work & thrive. yrk magazine photography provided by yrk magazine

Since 2013 YRK Magazine has been sharing the stories of York Pennsylvania and it has truly been an honor. York is a special place and we are just grateful for being a part of shaping the narrative.

Q:

How has YRK Magazine help shape my perspective of York?

I picked up my first issue of YRK Magazine at a local pizza place. I was living in an apartment complex at the time.

I initially picked it up because the cover was so well designed. At first I couldn’t believe York could be as cool as this cover however I gave the magazine a chance. I started flipping through the magazine and was continuously surprised! All these cool places are right downtown? After that first issue I was hooked. As soon as my lease was up I found an apartment downtown and really started to fall in love with York, PA. Rebecca Daubert, Executive Editor & Art Director

Q:

What was the most rewarding part of working on YRK Magazine?

Being able to collaborate with the local small business owners and entrepreneurs to bring their ideas to life has been my favorite part of producing YRK Magazine. To date, we’ve published 30 time capsules that showcase the personalities, history, and future plans of dozens of people through an interpretation of their vision and ours. I’m so grateful so many people have put their stories in our hands and so graciously trusted us to do those stories justice.

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Breanna Shorten, Publisher

“YRK’s mission is to share the stories of the people who make York County, Pennsylvania, a place where professionals and creatives live, work and thrive.”

Breanna Shorten, Publisher

Q:

What is your hope for York PA?

It is my hope that York continues to build on the dynamic growth I’ve been privileged to witness firsthand over the last several years. The city and its people have so much potential, and despite the challenges that we have faced in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, I believe that the resiliency of York City, York County and its people will persevere.

For seven years, York, I’ve been blessed to have told your stories on these pages.

Now it is your turn to write the stories of who you are and what you want to become. You all are the authors of your community’s story!

Michael Vyskocil, Former Managing Editor & Writer

/YRKMagazine @yrkmagazine yrkmagazine.com

YRK MAGAZINE 210 YORK ST. | YORK | PA | 17403 INFO@YRKMAGAZINE.COM | YRKMAGAZINE.COM

“Wealth is the ability to fully experience life.”

Henry David Thoreau

Read more on page 04!