Manheim Township
BY JEFF FALK
DVisionCorps can bring life into focus
ennis Steiner is legally blind. That doesn’t make him any more qualified to be the president and chief executive officer (CEO) of VisionCorps, but it certainly does provide him with a unique perspective and a very specific insight into the organization and its purpose.
“Our focus is not about taking care of people but giving them the skills to take care of themselves and be independent.”
“It does give me a perspective that others might not have,” said Steiner. “There are qualities that a CEO must have. But I don’t think blindness gives me any leadership qualities.”
“My vision tends to fluctuate,” Steiner continued. “I don’t drive a car. I take the bus to work and usually catch a ride home or use Uber. I use assisted software on my computer (to read). If I’m reading for extended periods of time, I use audiobooks. For me, I grew up with vision loss. I don’t think of my vision loss as who I
am. It’s something I deal with.”
Located at 244 N. Queen St., Lancaster, VisionCorps serves the blind and visually impaired. It seeks to enrich the lives of those who have experienced sight loss through preventative, rehabilitative, educational and employment programs and services.
“Our mission is to empower individuals with vision loss to attain independence,” said Steiner. “If people are experiencing vision loss, they should reach out. I think people need to recognize that vision loss is not the end of the world. People can live successful lives, happy lives
and continue to do the things they like to do. We can have a very positive impact on people’s lives.”
VisionCorps serves about 1,500 people annually, 75% of whom are over the age of 65.
VisionCorps also administers 10,000 vision tests to preschool students in Lancaster, York,
BY JEFF FALK
COBYS Family Services’ upcoming multifaceted Bike & Hike event is the organization’s biggest and most beneficial fundraiser.
“My favorite part is seeing everyone come together,” said Anne Stokes, who’s been COBYS’ director of development for six years. “There is a lot going on that day. But the beauty is that the participants can pick what makes the best sense to them. There are a lot of different options so participants can choose what they want to be a part of. It’s amazing to see a lot of different people.”
“The purpose of the event is to make sure COBYS can provide all of its services, day in and day out,” Stokes added. “People learn about all the things COBYS is doing.”
The 28th edition of COBYS’ annual Bike & Hike event will be presented on Sunday, Sept. 8, from noon to 3 p.m. at Lititz Church of the Brethren, 300 W. Orange St., Lititz. The event will feature three active options for supporters to choose from.
“It’s a very family-friendly
Youth participants navigate an elevated obstacle course during a VisionCorps summer camp program.
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VisionCorps
Lebanon, Adams and Chester counties each year.
“I don’t think everyone is aware of the opportunities that are available (through VisionCorps),” said Steiner. “Based on census data, we know there are more people out there who could benefit from our services. Some people are reluctant to reach out, and I think part of it is fear. I don’t think anyone accepts vision loss. We like to call it adjustment.”
VisionCorps employs about 200 people in Lancaster, Lebanon and York counties, as well as in Little Rock, Ark., and about half of those individuals are visually impaired.
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“Those of us who are vision impaired have a saying; ‘The only things we can’t do is drive a car or fly a plane, but give us the keys and we’ll try,’” said Steiner. “People say, ‘I can’t read the newspaper anymore.’ But there are a couple of ways around it. Part of our job is to teach people how to use those services.”
VisionCorps began its mission in 1926 and went through a number of name changes before settling on its current one.
“One of my staff came up with the name Vision -
Corps. It’s like the Peace Corps focused on vision,” said Steiner. “A lot of the organizations for the blind started in the early 1900s. We had a lot of vets returning from World War I experiencing vision loss. VisionCorps was started by a group of women who wanted to help those folks. Our focus is not about taking care of people but giving them the skills to take care of themselves and be independent so they can start families, build houses and earn sustainable wages.”
For additional information about VisionCorps, go to www.visioncorps.net.
Academy to offer prekindergarten program
Free prekindergarten openings for income-eligible children ages 3 and 4 are available for the 202425 school year at the Owl Hill Learning Academy in Lititz.
The Pennsylvania Keystone Star 4 program at Owl Hill Learning Academy is licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Education Bureau of Private Academic Schools to offer full-day prekindergarten to state-sponsored subsidized and tuition-based families in need of early care and education.
event,” said Stokes. “The day itself is very fun and uplifting. It’s people deciding to go do something exciting and be a part of what COBYS is doing. People come with smiles on their faces. You’re helping foster kids; you’re helping to provide counseling services. It’s a relaxed day. We encourage everyone to join us if they can.”
The Bike & Hike event features a 25-mile bicycle ride that begins at 12:30 p.m., a 10-mile bicycle ride that begins at 1:30 p.m. and a 3-mile walk that begins at 1:30 p.m. Registration for the rides and walk is now open at www.cobys.org. and can also be done on the day at the event.
The day’s festivities will be capped off by the event’s Incredible Ice Cream Celebration, begin-
ning at 2:45 p.m. at Lititz Church of the Brethren.
A group of several hundred family members, community members and supporters are expected to attend COBYS’ Bike & Hike. Organizers are hoping to make $130,000 from a combination of the event proceeds and preevent fundraising.
“COBYS’ mission is important because all of us have times in our lives when we need assistance,” said Stokes. “Our mission is to find kids and families in need of an extra set of hands and someone to walk alongside of. Kids are the next generation of society. We want them to go into their next phase of life with success.”
COBYS Family Services, which is located at 1417 Oregon Road, Leola, was founded in 1979.
The Owl Hill Learning Academy, located at 506 Owl Hill Road, Lititz, is able to enroll children from all surrounding school districts, including Warwick, Manheim Central, Ephrata, Conestoga Valley and Manheim Township. For more information, contact the school at 717-626-9052 or email ohlclititz@gmail.com and the enrollment specialist will answer all inquiries. More information is also available at www.owlhill learningacademy.com.
Nature preserves in Elizabeth Township are work of Lancaster Conservancy
BY JEFF FALK
Of all God’s gifts, of all the natural resources we’ve been given, land is among the most precious. It’s certainly worth protecting.
The Lancaster Conservancy exists for the sole purpose of preserving land
and ensuring that its use is beneficial to all. It’s the type of work that sometimes can go unnoticed or be taken for granted.
“We’re trying to protect as much land as we can and make it available to the community forever,” said Keith Williams, vice president of engagement
VisionCorps president and CEO Dennis Steiner
Participants in last year’s COBYS Bike & Hike Event walk for a good cause.
and education for the Lancaster Conservancy. “We do that mostly by buying land and opening it to the public. We’re not anti-development; we think it should be done in the right way and in the right place.”
“We know that clean air and clean water come from protected land,” Williams continued. “It’s also for recreation. We’re giving our communities a way to get outside so people can restore themselves physically, mentally and spiritually. And with every habitat we protect, we’re slowing the loss of species in our area.”
In Elizabeth Township, just west of Brickerville, the Lancaster Conservancy has acquired and protected nearly 300 acres of wooded land at four preservesthe 108-acre de Perrot Woods Nature Preserve, the 90-acre Speedwell Forge Nature Preserve, the 91-acre Rannels Kettle Run Nature Preserve and the 8-acre Upper Hopewell Forge Wildlife Sanctuary. Some of the preserves permit hiking, and all have been set aside to conserve natural resources and species native to those areas.
“Those preserves are very typical of what we do as an organization,” said Williams. “Each piece of land we protect is special. They’re in close proximity to other protected land. We have limited resources. We can’t go out and buy everything.”
The acquisition of the four preserves and wildlife sanctuaries occurred between 1998 and 2022 and involved either family donations or Lancaster Conservancy purchases.
“Speedwell Forge is one of our oldest holdings,” said Williams. “De Perrot Woods is special. It’s a beautiful nature reserve.”
Over the 53 years of its existence, the Lancaster Conservancy, which operates in both York and Lancaster counties, has acquired and protected more than 10,000 acres of land through 50 nature preserves. Much of the Lancaster Conservancy’s current holdings in Lancaster County are concentrated along or near the Susquehanna River.
“If the Lancaster Conservancy didn’t exist, there would be a decrease in the quality of life,” said Williams. “From (Lancaster), you can drive 30 minutes in any direction and be on a beautiful nature preserve, any day of the year. We’re this little nonprofit working hard to help everyone in the community.”
Headquartered at 117 S. West End Road, Lancaster, the Lancaster Conservancy, which was founded in 1969 by a group of hunters and fishermen, is operated by 25 staff members. The organization’s work is funded through donations and government grants.
“(The Lancaster Conservancy) was a small little nonprofit for a long time, run by all volunteers,” said Williams. “They just became extremely entrepreneurial and started to acquire land quickly. We’re in a race to get as much land as we can. Land is a limited resource. When it’s gone, it’s gone.”
For additional information about Lancaster Conservancy, go to www .lancasterconservancy.org.
Flu vaccinations available
The Giant Company has announced that flu vaccinations are now available at all Giant and Martin’s in-store pharmacies.
Flu shots for the 2024-25 flu and cold season are all trivalent and intended to protect against three strains of influenza: H1N1, H3N2 and a B/Victoria lineage virus. Giant and Martin’s pharmacies carry several different types of flu shots for children, adults and seniors, including standard and high-dose products.
Most insurance plans cover flu shots with $0 copays, including Medicare Part B. Flu shots are administered by immunizing Giant and Martin’s pharmacists and specially trained pharmacy team members, subject to state regulations.
Walk-ins are welcome, but customers can also make an appointment if they prefer. In addition, starting on Friday, Aug. 30, customers who present their Giant or Martin’s card and receive a flu shot can get an offer for $5 off $25 of a future grocery order.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone age 6 months and older get a flu vaccination. While the CDC recommends flu shots
by the end of October for everyone 6 months and older, certain groups of people are at greater risk for complications from the flu. These groups include people with diabetes, pregnant women, adults over age 65, children under age 5, those with asthma and other chronic lung diseases, those with kidney and liver disorders, heart disease patients and those with compromised immune systems.
To find the nearest Giant or Martin’s pharmacy, visit www.giantfoodstores.com or www.martinsfoods.com or download the free Giant or Martin’s pharmacy app.
De Perrot Woods is one of four nature preserves in Elizabeth Township protected by Lancaster Conservancy.
Community Blood Drive
541 Airport Rd., Lititz 17543 - IMAX Theater Lobby
Thursday, September 5th • 11:00am - 7:00pm
Everyone will receive:
• Blood Donor T-Shirt
• Penn Cinema Movie Pass
• Papa John’s buy one Large Pizza get one FREE certificate
3 ways to schedule your donation appointment:
• go to 717GiveBlood.org
• call 1-800-771-0059
• scan the QR Code
New scholarships created
The Institute of Hazardous Materials Management (IHMM) has created $32,000 in academic scholarships. The scholarships will be split evenly into $16,000 for students enrolled in undergraduate or graduate education in approved schools and who have also achieved the Student/Certified Hazardous Materials Manager (ST/CHMM) designation
and $16,000 for students enrolled in undergraduate or graduate education in approved schools and who also have the Student/Associate Safety and Health Manager (ST/ ASHM) designation.
IHMM has named this scholarship the Dr. John H. Frick Memorial IHMM Scholarship in honor of one of the principal founders of IHMM, who passed
See Scholarships pg 6
RUN THRU THE LEAVES
Whether running is your hobby or your lifestyle, we have what you need to get the most out of your hard work.
Never Forget 9/11 Cruise slated
The fifth annual Never Forget 9/11 Cruise, organized by 717 American Crew, will take place on Saturday, Sept. 7, to honor the heroes and victims of 9/11. The outing will depart from Root’s Country Market, 705 Graystone Road, Manheim, at 9 a.m. and end at the Ephrata-Reading Elks Lodge 115, 170 Akron Road, Ephrata, at approximately noon. After the cruise, lunch will be available, including ice cream from Penny’s. The event will also include music from DJ Jon and giveaway drawings. Lape
Brothers Photography will also participate.
The event is open to everyone. Participants are encouraged to display their red, white, and blue; no political flags will be permitted. In the case of rain, the event will be held on Sunday, Sept. 8.
There is a fee, and all proceeds will benefit the Brickerville Fire Company No. 21. T-shirt and tank tops are available for purchase.
Local businesses may donate giveaway drawing items or money.
For more information, call or text Kole Bauer at 717-371-5366.
LBC to present
“Our Town”
Students from the Lancaster Bible College (LBC)
Music, Worship & Performing Arts Department
will present the classic American play “Our Town” by Thornton Wilder. Performances will take place at 7 p.m. on Fridays, Sept. 6 and 13, and at 2 and 7 p.m. on Saturdays, Sept. 7 and 14, in Good Shepherd Chapel on LBC’s campus at 901 Eden Road, Lancaster.
“Our Town,” written in 1938, is set in the fictional Grover’s Corners, N.H., between 1901 and 1913, and it depicts the everyday lives of the town’s citizens. The play centers on George Gibbs and Emily Webb, the latter of whom is played by senior musical theater major Elsa Rogers
of Columbia, as they navigate love, life, and loss. The show conveys the characters’ reflections on life and death, emphasizing the notion that people often overlook the simple joys of living, while also exploring the themes of love, family, and the passage of time. The show is a play within a play featuring the character of a stage manager who takes the audience on an emotional journey. “Our Town” saw both Broadway success and a Pulitzer Prize for Drama.
To purchase tickets, visit www.lbc.edu/events. To learn more about the Music, Worship & Performing Arts Department, visit www.lbc.edu/mwpa.
Announcing the Never Forget 9/11 Cruise are (front, from left) Ray Redcay, Todd Meyer, Cindy Mellinger, Karen Herskowitz, Karla Sweigart, Kole Bauer, (back) Josiah Martin, Keith Martin, Chief Jeff Strauss, Bryon Wenger, and Barry Wenger.
BREAKOUT MINISTRIES: Senior Pastors Ron & Mary Buch; Sundays at 10am. Contemporary worship & messages of freedom, healing, deliverance and discipleship. Children’s ministry includes nursery through Sr. High. Wednesday Night Prayer Meeting 7-8pm; Check our web site for scheduled home bible studies.; JA Jesus based recovery meeting Saturday 7-8:30p. Men and Women groups meet monthly. Family Fun Night bi-monthly 6:30-9:00, Jr. and Sr. High youth group meets alternating months. Local and International outreaches. Web site: www.breakoutministries.org or Call for details. 2400 Anita Court, Leola, PA 17540. Ph.: (717)656-8366
HABECKER MENNONITE CHURCH: A growing intercultural church that loves God, its neighbors and the world. Join us for Sunday Worship at 10 am. Located at 451 Habecker Church Rd., Lancaster, PA. Active youth group. All are Welcome! Website: habeckerchurch.com
HIGHLAND PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH: 500 East Roseville Rd., Lancaster (off Rt. 272 / Oregon Pike). (717) 569-2651 Sunday 10 AM Worship Service, also available online. www.HighlandPC.org
LANDIS VALLEY CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP: 2420 Kissel Hill Road, Lancaster. 717589-6051. SUN. WORSHIP SERVICE
9:30am, Sunday School for all ages 10:45am.Children's Church & Nursery. Handicap Accessible.
SAINT JOHN NEUMANN CATHOLIC CHURCH: 601 East Delp Rd., Lancaster, PA 17601 (Off the Oregon Pike - 3 miles North of Rt. 30 Exit at Oregon Pike). Phone (717) 569-8531; Website: www.sjnlancaster.org Saturday 2:30 p.m. Reconciliation. Weekend Mass Schedule: Saturday 4 p.m. Mass (Inperson & Livestream); Sunday, 7:30 a.m. (In-person), 9 a.m. & 11 a.m.(Inperson & Livestream) Rev. Daniel F.X. Powell.
ST. JAMES CATHOLIC CHURCH: 505 Woodcrest Ave., Lititz Ph:717-626-5580
Rev. Stephen D. Weitzel Confessions: Sat. 2:45 pm - 3:45 pm and anytime on request Daily Masses: Tues.-Fri. 9 am Saturday Vigil Mass: 4 pm Sunday Masses: 8:30 am & 10:30 am www.stjameslititz.org for livestream Masses
ST. MATTHEW LUTHERAN CHURCH: A Reconciling in Christ (Open & Affirming Congregation). Located at 700 Pleasure Rd.Lancaster. Robin Fero, Pastor. In-person worship: Sat. 5 pm & Sun. 10 am. Online Worship at www.stmatthewelc.com For more info, call (717) 394-9607, or visit our web site.
TRINITY BAPTIST CHURCH: 596 West Newport Rd., Lititz. Are you looking for a Church that preaches from the King James Bible? Helps your family grow spiritually? Enjoys the old-time hymns? Look no further! Sunday School 10am, Sunday Morning Worship 11am, and Sunday Evening Worship 6pm. Wednesday Evening Prayer & Bible Study 6:30 pm. Pastor Wiliam Hamm, Jr. (717) 575-0292.
WESTGATE BAPTIST CHURCH: 2235 Harrisburg Pike, Lancaster, PA 17601
One mile North of Park City.
Pastor Robert Zimmerman. A beautifully blended Sunday morning service at 11 AM, under the leadership of Pianist David Ryan & known guitarist Chuck Oetelle. Adult Sunday School 9:30 AM during the school year. Preaching/Teaching focus seeks to be distinctively Biblical, relevant, creative, engaging in the midst of today’s moral/cultural chaos. Find us on Facebook: Westgate American Baptist Church. Website: Westgateabc.com
Please Note: Updates can be made to your church’s listing for 1st issue date of each month only.
(Changes must be submitted by the previous Wednesday.)
For More Information
On Church Listings And Rates, Call Justin at 717-492-2533
Exhibit to feature artworks created during the pandemic
“Isolation,” a collection of abstract paintings created during the pandemic by Jeremy Lee Rebuck, will be on display at Mulberry Art Studios this September. The public is invited to join the artist for a First Friday Reception on Sept. 6 from 5 to 8 p.m. Mulberry Art Studios, located in downtown Lancaster at 19-21 N. Mulberry St., offers free parking in its private lot.
Rebuck, who created the pieces over the course of four years, began painting at the beginning of the pandemic while living alone in quarantine. He found painting to be a great outlet for all the emotions he was feeling. He decided to share his artworks with the community once everyone was able to gather together again; through the project,
he hopes to raise awareness of mental health and the benefits that art and creativity can have. For more information, contact gallery curator
Stephanie Clayton-Kulfan at stephanie.mulberryart@ gmail.com.
Scholarships
away in 2023.
To be eligible, an applicant must be a full-time student who will be enrolled in a graduate or under -
from pg 4
graduate degree program that is an IHMM-approved hazardous materials management or safety, health, and environmental (SH&E) degree program. Applicants should be in good academic standing in their IHMM-ap-
proved degree program with at least a 2.0 cumulative GPA. They must have at least one full academic year remaining at the time of the application deadline, and they must demonstrate a desire to enter the hazardous materials management or SH&E profession upon graduation. The application deadline is Friday, Oct. 18. For more information, visit https:// ihmm.org/scholarship/ or email info@ihmm.org.
Jeremy Lee Rebuck with his paintings
&
Saturday, September 21 Community 11am-2pm prizes to win! Donated by local businesses!
• American Music Theatre
• Decades
• Field of Screams/Corn Cob Acres
• Go ‘N Bananas
• Lancaster Stormers
• Martin Appliance
• Refreshing Mountain
• York Revolution AND MORE!
Food Trucks
Auntie Anne’s, Cupcakes by Casey, Tri County BBQ and more!
ice cream
Free, while supplies last
kids activities
Pumpkin Painting sponsored by Cherry Hill Orchards
Face Painting, Balloon Artist and more!
live broadcast
WJTL FM 90.3 from 11:00am-1:00pm
behind-thescenes tour
EPC is celebrating 70 years of bringing the local “good news” to our communities. Across Lancaster County and beyond, we’re honored to share the stories of the people and organizations that make a difference. Join us for a special celebration as we commemorate the past and look forward to the future together!
Publisher of the Merchandiser, Pennysaver, Advertiser, Community Courier, Lancaster County Magazine, Where & When Pennsylvania, Dining in Lancaster County, and Antiques and Auction News
live music
Blessing & Fowler from 11:30am-1:30pm
Take a tour of Engle Printing & Publishing Co., Inc. and see how your weekly community paper is created! community organizations
Get a close up look at a firetruck, meet a Police Officer, connect with your local chambers in Lancaster, and learn about Lancaster Co. 4H Seeing Eye puppy club.
Learn To Square Dance
FALL COIN SHOW
CASA event will celebrate transformative powers of heroes
BY JEFF FALK
Heroes come in all shapes, sizes and ages. The heroic volunteers of Court Appointed Special Advocates of Lancaster and Lebanon Counties serve, place others ahead of themselves and seek to make the world a better place to live.
CASA of Lancaster and Lebanon Counties’ upcoming gala is the nonprofit’s signature event, partly because it celebrates these heroes. It also brings together volunteers, donors, community members and friends, new and old alike.
from 6 to 10 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 7, at Foundry48, 100 W. Millport Road, Lititz. The gala will feature a reception, drinks, hors d’oeuvres, a buffet dinner and a silent auction.
The deadline for purchasing tickets at www.Story book.Soiree.givesmart.com is Friday, Aug. 30. Individuals can bid on silent auction items or donate directly to CASA of Lancaster and Lebanon Counties at the same website beginning Wednesday, Sept. 4.
“It will be a celebratory evening of recognizing the hard work that the CASA volunteers perform,” said Lamberson. “People can change a child’s story just by being there. It’s an adult evening, but it’s not a stuffy group. This group likes to have fun. It’s an opportunity to do something a little different. Not only will it raise funds to support our mission, (but) it will also raise awareness about what we do.”
resources they need.”
Nearly 300 people are expected to attend the gala. Organizers are seeking to raise more than $200,000 for CASA of Lancaster and Lebanon Counties.
Lebanon Counties currently serves more than 150 at-risk children from infants to 18-year-olds with more than 100 volunteers. In its 15 years of existence, the nonprofit has advocated for more than 1,100 youths.
“It’s always about putting the best interests of youth first,” said Margie Lamberson, CASA of Lancaster and Lebanon Counties’ director of development. “A CASA (court-appointed special advocate) is appointed by the court, and they’re another set of eyes and ears for the judge,” she explained. “A CASA is always there for (children who have been abused or neglected). That’s their sole purpose. They’re constantly asking, ‘What does the child need? Are they being well cared for? How are they doing in school?’”
The 14th edition of CASA of Lancaster and Lebanon Counties’ annual Heroes Gala, this year titled “A Storybook Soiree: Changing a Child’s Story One Chapter at a Time,” will be presented
At the gala, CASA of Lancaster and Lebanon Counties will also recognize Jenny Habecker of Hummelstown as its Hero of the Year and TriStarr of Lancaster as its Business Hero of the Year.
“Businesses like TriStarr help promote what we do,” said Lamberson. “Jenny always goes above and beyond; she always goes the extra mile to advocate for the youth in her care and make sure they have all the
Arts and craft show planned
The 36th Heart of Lancaster Arts and Craft Show will take place at Root’s Country Market, 705 Graystone Road, Manheim, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 31, and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 1.
The event will feature artists and craftspeople from the local area and beyond. All works in the juried event are handcrafted by the artists, and the items range from traditional to contemporary works. Demonstrations will showcase the design and construction processes. Those who will give demonstrations include Elizabeth
Carroll, tie-dyeing; Lodema Lindamood from Virginia, carpet bags; Frank LaMartina, pencil drawings; Pam Bartl, weaving; Susan Quinn, decorative painting; Dan Shultz, personalized icicle ornaments; Holly Wellington, sterling silver and gemstone jewelry; Mary Ann Vessey, oil painting; John Paul Warren, broom making; new exhibitor Morgan Pallas, watercolors with a fantasy theme; Andy Smith from Lititz, realistic watercolors; and Susan Wolf, painted gourds for use as boxes, bowls, teapots, and birdhouses. Admission and parking are free.
“The outpouring at the gala is pretty special. We have generous sponsors,” said Lamberson. “We all have stories. The question becomes, ‘How can you change a child’s story?’ We think about the heroes in stories, the characters in stories. Hopefully we’re going to help these children have happy endings to their stories.”
Headquartered at 120 N. Shippen St., Lancaster, CASA of Lancaster and
“Dysfunction in a family can happen anywhere, and it can happen to anyone,” said Lamberson. “It can break a family apart and a child isn’t safe anymore. We’re serving all the children who a judge believes a CASA can (help).”
For additional information about CASA of Lancaster and Lebanon Counties, go to www.casa lancleb.org.
Webinar to focus on feral hogs
Penn State Extension will hold a webinar, “A Squeal for Help: Preventing Feral Hog Invasions,” on Wednesday, Sept. 4, at noon.
Feral hogs are one of the most damaging non-native species in North America. Historically confined to the Southeastern United States, they have spread and now threaten forests, wetlands, and other habitats from Florida to Saskatchewan. In the webinar, participants will learn about the role humans play in feral hog invasions, strategies to
slow their spread, and early intervention steps for new invasions. The program is designed for foresters, landowners, biologists, and other interested parties. There is a fee for those seeking continuing education credits, with no free for all other attendees. Registration is required https://tinyurl.com/ FeralHogInvasion. A link to the recorded webinar will be emailed to registrants after the live event, and the recording will be accessible for six months from the event date.
CASA volunteer Janice Weber-Brown (left) and husband Larry Brown celebrate at last year’s CASA Heroes Gala.
Squadron names new commander
Members of the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) Jesse Jones Squadron 304 held a change of command ceremony at its meeting on Aug. 5 to appoint Cadet Capt. Judah Acosta as the new cadet commander.
During the change of command ceremony, the squadron conducted the formal transfer of command from outgoing cadet commander Cadet Maj. Slater Shannon to Acosta, who will now lead the unit.
Under Shannon’s leadership, Squadron 304 was recognized as the Pennsylvania Wing Squadron of Merit for 2023, an award presented by the Pennsylvania Wing this past January.
Acosta brings a wealth of experience to his new role. His commitment to excellence and leadership skills have been evident throughout his tenure
in the squadron. Acosta follows in the footsteps of his elder siblings, former Cadet Cols. Josiah Acosta and Jurnee Acosta, both of whom have previously held the position of cadet commander.
Jesse Jones Squadron 304 meets each Monday except holidays at 7 p.m. in the Venture Jets hangar, located near the intersection of Lititz Pike and Millport Road at the Lancaster Airport. Visitors are welcome.
CAP is the official civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force. To learn more about the local squadron, visit www.jessejones .cap.gov or search for “Jesse Jones Composite Squadron 304” on Facebook. Information about CAP is available at www.cap.news and www .gocivilairpatrol.com as well as on social media.
Fulton Bank receives Freedom Award
The Department of Defense recently announced that Fulton Bank of Lancaster was one of 15 recipients of the 2024 Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award, which is the highest U.S. government honor to employers for support of National Guard and Reserve employees.
The recipients include small and large private and public sector employers nominated by a National Guard or Reserve Component Service member employed in the organization.
Fulton was nominated for the award by Brett Gagnon, chief enterprise architect for the bank and a colonel in the Pennsylvania Army National Guard. Prior to receiving the Employer Support Freedom Award, Fulton Bank received Above and Beyond Awards from the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) for three consecutive years.
The Freedom Award began in 1996 under the auspices of ESGR to recog-
nize exceptional employer support, with 355 honorees to date.
This year, ESGR received 1,758 nominations for employers throughout the 50 states, Guam-CNMI, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia. The recipients distinguished themselves by going far beyond the requirements of the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA) to support their National Guard and Reserve employees.
For more information about the Freedom Award, visit www.freedomaward .mil. More information about ESGR, a program of the Defense Family Office, is available at www .esgr.mil.
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Jesse Jones Squadron members (from left) Lt. Col. Glenn Baugher, Cadet 2nd Lt. Aaron Keohane, Cadet Capt. Judah Acosta and Cadet Maj. Slater Shannon
CLASSIFIEDS
HELP WANTED General
CAREGIVERS NEEDED: CNA'S, HHA's & care assistants, make a difference in the life of a senior & put your caregiving experience to work. All shifts available. Visiting Angels at 717-393-3450.
WAREHOUSE MANAGER
Currently seeking an organized, driven individual to manage our Animal Feed Ingredient Warehouse Facility. Applicants need to have experience operating forklifts as well as experience managing inventory and a small team.
FT day shift position with full benefits.
Contact: Kirby Agri | 717-299-2541
500 Running Pump Rd., Lancaster, PA
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YOUR ATTENTION
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Hospice & Community Care’s LABOR DAY AUCTION SOLANCO FAIRGROUNDS Sat., Aug. 31 & Mon., Sept. 2; 7:30am-5pm Thousands of items to be auctioned, including: Quilts, tools, plants, furniture, artwork, jewelry, sports memorabilia, vacations, gift cards, used vehicles. Amish-made food both days. Visit www.LaborDayAuction.org or 717-295-3900
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ELDER CARE
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FOR SALE
Bldg. Materials
ASPHALT MILLINGS AND CRUSHED CONCRETE FOR SALE. Call PAVWORX® at 610-929-9971 pavworx.com/millings.html
Collectibles
BUYING TOYS & COLLECTIBLES www.DNRCollectibles.com
PA’s Largest Buyer of Toys & Collectibles 27 E Lancaster Street, Red Lion, PA Hours: M-W 8am-4pm, Th.-F by appt. 717-329-8167 • rhoward1771@gmail.com
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Lawn & Garden
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Lawn & Garden
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RAILROAD TIES FOR SALE #1. Delivery Available GAP REPAIR, 717-442-4781 ext. 2
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Livestock
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Pets
ACA WELSH CORGI PUPPIES, blue merle & tricolor, vet checked, family raised, $475 obo. 223-289-0906.
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Sporting Goods
GUNS WANTED INSTANT PAYMENT 1 gun or collection - will travel Kinsey’s Outdoors, 717-653-5524
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GENERATOR FOR SALE - Marine Corps generator. Multiple fuels diesel/ jp8/jp5 10kw 110v and 220v single phase and 220 three phase. Generator only has 33run hours. Manufacturer is Cummings, retails for over $14,000, only asking for $8,500. If interested call for pictures, 215-651-4352
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SEASONAL
COAL/WOOD/PELLET STOVES & Inserts, New & Refurbished. Over 300 models in stock. $100-$800 & up. Buy/Sell/Trade. Call 717-577-6640
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LOST & FOUND
FOUND AN ITEM? Place a FREE 15 word ad in your local issue to locate the owner of your found item. 1-800-428-4211
READ YOUR AD THE FIRST WEEK IT APPEARS
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SERVICES RENDERED
A DRYWALL COMPANY Hanging, Finishing & Repairs KENT SAUDER, LLC Text/Call: 717-989-2069
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SERVICES RENDERED
CLOCK REPAIR - TRAGER 717-786-7053
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ELECTRICAL SERVICES
Master Electrician. Panel/Service upgrades 100/200 amp. Repairs, lights, receptacles, fans, electrical heat, mini split heatpumps. Ins. Free est. PA030435, 717-371-1392
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GARDENING, CLEAN UPS, MOWING, BUSH TRIMMING, MULCHING, ETC. Call Craig at 717-342-4217 www.craigslancasterlawncare.com
GENERAL CONTRACTOR: Additions, Siding, Replacement Windows & Doors. 15 Yrs Exp. Sylvan Miller - 717-468-2693
GUTTERS, GUTTERS
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HOUSE WASHING BY ME
Removal of black stains off roof & exterior cleaning. 717-424-8504
WE TRANSFORM YOUR kitchen in less time, with less stress, at an amazing value. Since 1979, Kitchen Magic, a family-owned business offering cabinet refacing, new cabinetry, and luxury countertop throughout the Northeast. Call today for a free estimate. 1-844887-5145 (PA017137).
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ITEMS WANTED
CLASSIC CARS, TRUCKS, SUVs **American and Foreign** Any Condition. Buying entire car collections. $$PAYING CA$H$$ Please call 717-577-8206 KRMiller1965@yahoo.com
POWERWASHING POWERWASHING & DECK SEALING/REPAIR By Steve, 717-892-7411
ALLEGIANT TREE CARE
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AMISH CLEANOUTS
Attics • Basements • Junk Removal Great prices! 717-205-6067
AMISH MOVING COMPANY
Will move households (will go out of state). Fair prices for Clean Outs of Attics, Basements. 717-442-3301
ANDY’S DRYWALL
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BUSHES PROFESSIONALLY TRIMMED & pruned. Hedges, shrubbery, ornamental plants aesthetically maintained. No job too small. Spring clean-up, mulching, light landscaping. 717-405- 8733
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JACUZZI BATH REMODEL can install a new, custom bath or shower in as little as one day. For a limited time, waiving ALL installation costs! Additional terms apply. Subject to change and vary by dealer. Call 1-844-826-2535
JUNK REMOVAL
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BUYING UNWANTED HEATING OIL 40¢/ga. - will pick up. 717-587-7315.
Field hockey team to sell discount cards
The Manheim Township field hockey team is selling cards offering discounts are various businesses. Each discount can be used an unlimited number of times between Sunday, Sept. 1, 2024, and Sunday, Aug. 31, 2025. All proceeds from the sale of the cards will benefit the Manheim Township field hockey team. To purchase a card, email mtfhbc@gmail.com.
Memorial 5K will focus more on the fun and less on the run
BY ADRIAN ESCHENWALD
The second annual Pete Ruggieri Memorial Un-Run will take place from 2 to 5 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 8, at Phantom Power, 121 W. Frederick St., Millersville. Partic-
ipants must be age 21 and up unless they are accompanied by a parent or legal guardian, and a ticket for the event will include food and a beverage from the bar. Proceeds will benefit Jefferson Health’s Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center to assist its research of thyroid cancer treatments.
The fundraiser will offer a clever take on the traditional 5K run format: Although participants are encouraged to arrive in their favorite activewear in preparation for the “race” at 3 p.m., the “runners” will only need to take one step to cross the finish line. After completing all 0.0 miles of the course, participants may celebrate by enjoying a meal provided by The Fat Is Where It’s At Barbeque.
Registration will include one meal ticket, and a meal will include pulled pork, pulled chicken, macaroni and cheese, smoked beans and coleslaw.
virus pandemic and Ruggieri’s declining health.
After Ruggieri’s death, his wife, Stephanie Horst, began organizing the fundraiser in his memory, and the first Un-Run was held in September 2023. “I decided it was such a great idea that I couldn’t let it die with him,” Horst said.
In addition to entry in the “lengthy” run, registration will include a numbered race bib, a 0.0 sticker and participation in prize drawings. Door prizes will include items donated by local businesses and organizations such as Tellus360, the Lancaster Stormers, Stubby’s Bar and Grille, John Wright Restaurant and Passenger Coffee. The event will also feature yard games, tabletop games and other festivities.
The concept of a runless race was the brainchild of Pete Ruggieri, who died in March 2023 after a long battle with thyroid cancer. Ruggieri started organizing the event a few years ago, but his plans were placed on hold due to safety restrictions brought on by the corona -
Ruggieri was known to many in the Lancaster community as the founder of the Santa Stumble, an annual bar crawl that raised more than $200,000 for the horses and dogs in the City of Lancaster Bureau of Police’s mounted patrols and K-9 units. Nearly 100 community members participated in the first Un-Run, raising approximately $6,000 and sharing stories in memory of their favorite local jokester.
“Pete was a clown, but he didn’t want the attention; he did it because he really recognized the importance of having fun. That’s kind of how he served the world,” said Horst. “I think we build relationships with each other by having fun, and Pete saw it as essential.”
While Ruggieri’s health declined, he participated in a clinical trial at Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center. After Ruggieri’s death, Horst asked family members and friends to send donations to the cancer center in his memory.
For more information or to register for the event, visit https://tinyurl.com/ unrun2024.
More than 100 community members attended the first UnRun, which took place in downtown Lancaster.