Diane Krulac, owner, Brittle Bark and Cocoa Creek Chocolates, Mechanicsburg, PA

By Karen Hendricks

I recently met two female business owners who seem to defy their ages.

Diane Krulac, 68, is enjoying her third career as a chocolatier. She launched Brittle Bark, Mechanicsburg, PA in 2008 and recently expanded the candy shop’s lineup to include two new chocolate brands, Cocoa Creek Chocolates and Luther’s Bars.

“You’re never too old to continue your dream,” says Krulac. “As I tell people, there is nothing I’d rather do in retirement than what I’m doing now, so why would I retire?”

Meantime, nearby in Gettysburg, PA, Cheri Ann Freeman, 72, recently opened Chez Cheri Café, a culmination of her restaurant and catering expertise which began in 1973.

It’s especially noteworthy that both of these women work in one of the most demanding fields, the restaurant/food industry. Maybe their “recipes for success” stem from their recipes in the kitchen, combined with their strong work ethics?

Enjoy their inspiring stories, in the May issues of the following magazines:

Mechanicsburg’s Sweet Spot: Cocoa Creek Chocolates launches unique line, Susquehanna Style, May 2019

Worldly Flavors, Friendly Faces: Chez Cheri Cafe, Celebrate Gettysburg, May/June 2019

And here’s a behind-the-scenes look at both businesses, during my time visiting and interviewing both women, to learn the stories behind their success: (Click any photo to launch the gallery.)

Diane Krulac, owner

Cocoa Creek Chocolates

Luther’s Trek Bars

Main Street, Mechanicsburg, PA

Cocoa Creek Chocolates

Cocoa Creeek Chocolates

Luther’s Trek Bars

Brittle Bar Chocolate Shop

Chez Cheri Cafe, Gettysburg

Falafel Wrap

Casey Martin behind the camera for Celebrate Gettysburg magazine

Cheri Ann Freeman, restaurant owner

Cheri Ann Freeman being photographed by Casey Martin

Brownie Dessert

Karen Hendricks and Casey Martin on assignment