Juniata’s Baublitz to compete at US NavalAcademy 2—Lewistown, PA
The Sentinel
Friday, April 24, 2020
SPORTS SHOWCASE
By WILLIAM WHISLER Sports editor
wwhisler@lewistownsentinel.com
MIFFLINTOWN — Few have left a mark on their school in the same way that Juniata’s Garrett Baublitz did as he prepares to graduate from Juniata High School in a little over a month. Baublitz collected hardware in the state’s top competitions, earning three state medals in cross country and a gold medal in the latest indoor season. His unbelievable performance at the 2019 PIAA championships resulted in two golds within two hours in Shippensburg and put recruiters on notice. After mulling his options, Baublitz decided that he will
be taking his talents to Annapolis in the fall, where he will compete for the US Naval Academy. “It was honestly just the school for me,” Baublitz said. “I loved everything about it. The coaches and athletes went out of their way to be nice to me and the program is one that I see myself fitting in really well at.” Baublitz chose Navy over Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Cornell, Army and Penn State because of the tightknit family approach that allowed him to live out another dream of serving his country. “The military aspect definitely made it more appealing to me,” Baublitz said. “I have always had thoughts of being in the military and this school let me follow that
dream while earning a great education and competing at a great level of college sports. It was the perfect school all around and I couldn’t be happier with the choice I made.” Without a spring season to compete in, Baublitz will not have a chance to defend his gold medals in both the 800 and mile runs at the PIAA championships. Fittingly enough, Baublitz did win gold in the mile at the PTFCA indoor state championships in March, in his final race in an Indians’ uniform. Had there been a season, his goals were to defend his gold medals while attempting to hit new personal records and of course, stay healthy. Regardless, he’s See Baublitz / Page 4
Sentinel file photo
Juniata High Schoolʼs Garrett Baublitz, right, competes in the final race of his high school career at Penn Stateʼs Ashenfelter Complex. Baublitz is headed to Navy.
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Keegan Prendergast 7th Grade Mifflin County Middle School
Morgan Riley Weston Senior Mifflin County High School
Mifflin County’s Yetter to play at Division I Marist Friday, April 24, 2020
Lewistown, PA—3
The Sentinel
SPORTS SHOWCASE
By WILLIAM WHISLER Sports editor
wwhisler@lewistownsentinel.com
LEWISTOWN — When the PIAA made the final decision to cancel the spring sports season on April 9 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Mifflin County senior Brian Yetter’s Husky baseball career had abruptly ended. Yetter’s time on the diamond is far from over, however, as he will attend Marist College in the fall as a member of the Red Foxes’ baseball program. Yetter, a dominant arm and hitter at his best, is excited to take his talents to the next level. His decision to attend Marist was all about finding the right atmosphere and Yetter felt right at home at the small Division I school in New York. “Marist was a standout of all the colleges I visited because of the coaching staff,� Yetter said. “Those guys welcomed me in as one of their own and it felt like home the moment I stepped on campus. I’m so excited to work with and learn from those guys.� The recruiting process included stops at multiple Power 5 schools, but Yetter made his decision early, committing to Marist in No-
vember of 2018, before signing last November. “To be honest with you my recruiting process was very difficult,� Yetter admitted. “When I was really young, like 15 or so, I was visiting a lot of big-time power 5 D1 schools and as I got older, I had to take that label away and push it aside to see what school was best for me. It turned out to be a small D1 school off of Route 9 in Poughkeepsie, New York. You have to find a place that’s comfortable for you and a place you’re going to get playing time.� Yetter excelled in his junior season, hitting well over .300 while leading the team in on-base percentage, RBIs and extra base hits. He also led the team in walks, hits and runs. He was no slouch on the mound either, as the Husky hurler had a 2.30 ERA and finished second in strikeouts behind Tristin Lockett. “My successes on the baseball field have come from nothing except hard work,� Yetter said. “I’ve had great coaches and my dad is one of the best of them. He’s my biggest fan and my biggest critic. That’s how it should be. You know, hard work is everything to prepare for a season. You have to get nasty in the weight
room and get your reps in off the mound and at the plate, so when it comes time to play, instincts take over.â€? His stellar season resulted in him winning the inaugural Buck Riden/Jim Hockenbrock Award, awarded to the school’s top baseball player. The award is voted on by local media and representatives of Mifflin County High School’s athletic department. “I think the Riden/Hockenbrock award was a great establishment for MCHS,â€? Yetter said. “Players want something to play for and on a personal note that’s something I looked forward to playing for and winning this coming year. Obviously, the Sentinel file photo opportunity didn’t present itself but to be the first guy to Mifflin CountyĘźs Brian Yetter, right, has had success at every level in his baseball cawin it is really neat. I just reer. Yetter was a member of the 13-year-old Babe Ruth World Series team. hope future players have that same desire to win the award and keep the tradition going.â€? Yetter also excelled from a young age in the sport, as he was a key member of the 13-year-old Babe Ruth World Series championship team back in 2016. He won two MVP awards in the Mifflin County Babe Ruth League for McVeytown and was the first player in more than 46 years to win the
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The Sentinel
SPORTS SHOWCASE
going out on top and isn’t dwelling on what could have been. “I can still be happy with what my team and I accomplished,” Baublitz said. “The past almost four years have been amazing and something that I wouldn’t give up for the world. The places I’ve been, people I’ve met, and the races I’ve ran have changed me into
the person that I am today. It took a lot of hard work to get here, but I just want people to know that they can accomplish whatever they want if they put their minds to it.” Early in his career, Baublitz burst onto the scene as a sprinter, but the transition to mid-distance, along with his impeccable work ethic transformed him into one of the region’s most formidable competitors in the 800-meter run and the mile. “I’m very excited to run in
college. It definitely lessens the blow of not having a season this spring,” Baublitz said. “It will be nice to have several guys on the team who can kick my butt and have them pull me along in workouts. I am looking forward to traveling around to meets with the team and making new friends in the collegiate sports atmosphere.” Baublitz is currently undecided on a major, considering chemistry, mathematics and engineering — although he
has a good idea on what he wants to do after graduation. “I would love to become a naval pilot someday,” Baublitz said. “I have always been drawn to the idea of becoming a pilot — ever since I was a little kid. Going to the Naval Academy is more than just an opportunity to run, it is a chance to honorably serve our country and what it stands for. That is my main goal for the future.” Baublitz thanked his parents, coaches Jeff and Shari
Swartz continues to shine at LHU By LUCAS LENZE
Sentinel reporter llenze@lewistownsentinel.com
LOCK HAVEN — Josie Swartz has proven herself to be a dynamic scorer, both on the soccer field and the hardwood. Success has followed the former Juniata Indian into her collegiate career at Lock Haven University, where Swartz is majoring in athletic training and competing as a member of the Bald Eagle’s women’s soccer team. Swartz was one of the most successful two-sport athletes to come out of Juniata High School in recent seasons, and getting the opportunity to share the experience with her sisters in soccer and basketball made the experience all the more special. “It was fun, getting to play
with my siblings and constantly competing,” she said. On the soccer field, Swartz is in a league of her own. She was named as the unanimous Tri-Valley League MVP twice in her high school career. Swartz finished her high school soccer career with 102 goals, which is the second-most in Juniata history behind Kelly Weaver. Swartz’s soccer career was an overwhelming success, as soccer runs in her blood. The sport has been a part of her family for as long as she can remember. “We are a very soccer oriented family,” Swartz said. “The success wasn’t expected at first, but everything revolved around soccer, so that is where it all came from.” For as good as Swartz was on the soccer field, she was
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Miller, Kim Hart and Ronald Sprecher, as well as teammates Clay Yeager, Jeremiah Parson, Tad Shellenberger, James Hazard, Barrett Walters and Will Tyson for their support and for pushing him to be his best on the track. Overall, Baublitz’s biggest takeaways aren’t in his many triumphs, but in the things that competing in track has brought into his life. “It has been an interesting and exciting four years for sure,” he said. “All of the par-
ticular races and meets will blend together, but two things will always be clear in my mind — my amazing team and the supporters that I am blessed to have. They have made these four years the best of my life. I wouldn’t be where I am without such a supportive team, coaching staff and an amazing set of parents. They will be what I remember, and I am so thankful to have experienced such great memories for my time in Juniata High School sports.”
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Former Husky Chayce Macknair excels at Ship Friday, April 24, 2020
Lewistown, PA—5
The Sentinel
SPORTS SHOWCASE
By WILLIAM WHISLER Sports editor
wwhisler@lewistownsentinel.com
SHIPPENSBURG — The final race of Chayce Macknair’s Mifflin County High School career paints an accurate picture into the legacy of one of the county’s best runners. In the 3,200-meter run at the PIAA championships last season, Macknair’s final push was an incredible display of sheer determination that put him from the back of the pack all the way up to second place, where he held on to take the silver medal. His personal best of 9:07.88 knocked more than 22 seconds off his previous PR after entering as the No. 15 seed. The race was just Macknair at his best. He left Mifflin County with six state medals, including two silvers, five district titles and four Mid-Penn Conference titles combined in cross country, indoor and outdoor track to go along with multiple school and county records. In the fall, Macknair took his talents to Shippensburg University, a school wellknown for its rich history of dominance in track and cross country. He made an immediate impact, leading the Raiders as their top runner throughout the cross
country season. “The adjustment from high school to college was much more exponential than I was anticipating,” Macknair said. “In high school, I averaged 35 – 45 miles a week at easy pace, whereas in my first year of college cross country, I averaged 65 – 80 miles a week all at a prescribed pace that was very difficult to maintain. My freshman year of cross country went very well. I ran through several nagging injuries and still was able to put together a complete season where I finished as the top runner for Shippensburg in all but one of my races.” Macknair shined at the PSAC Championship meet, finishing 11th to earn AllPSAC First-Team honors and secure the best finish for an SU freshman in 10 years with a time of 26:04 in the 8K event. SU finished third at the meet. The biggest challenge Macknair faced in his freshman year was competing in his first 10K at the NCAA regional while battling through a hip and back injury. Macknair finished 38th at the regional meet. “It ended up being my worst race of the season,” Macknair said. “I went into the race being too confident and ended up going out too hard. I ended up placing outside of the Top-25 in the end. My takeaway from the race
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is to be more conservative at the 10K distance in the future, and to move up gradually as the race goes on, rather than try to hold a top position the entire 10K.” Overall, the race gave Macknair something to grow on in upcoming seasons. Among his future goals are to continue to shave time off his mile and 5K and earn a spot at the Division II Cross Country Championships. “Next season I would like to qualify for NCAA Nationals in cross country, indoor track and field, and outdoor track and field,” he said. “I would also like to run sub 4:10 in the mile and sub 14:45 in the 5K.” Macknair chose Shippensburg after visiting 10 See Macknair / Page 11
Courtesy of SU Sports Info.
Mifflin Countyʼs Chayce Macknair, center, became one of the top runners at Shippensburg University during the 2019 cross country season as a freshman.
Sentinel file photo
Mifflin Countyʼs Chayce Macknair left Mifflin County with six state medals and multiple county records.
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The Sentinel
Friday, April 24, 2020
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EJ’s Thea Neimond to play soccer at Messiah College Friday, April 24, 2020
Lewistown, PA—7
The Sentinel
SPORTS SHOWCASE
By WILLIAM WHISLER Sports editor
wwhisler@lewistownsentinel.com
COCOLAMUS — The East Juniata girls soccer team’s 2019 season was a year of redemption, as the Tigers finally got over the hump to win their first District 4 championship with a 1-0 victory over Bloomsburg. The Tigers went 22-2 last season, losing only to a tough Fairfield soccer program whose senior class had already won a state title. Among the top players on the Tigers’ roster was sensational midfielder Thea Neimond, who was the 2019 Tri-Valley League MVP after a 69-point season that included 25 goals and 19 assists. “Looking back on my senior season, I am so proud of what our team was able to accomplish,” Neimond said. “Although we did not make it as far as we did the two previous seasons, I am still proud of the season we had. I am so grateful that we finally were able to win the District 4 Title because it was devastating to lose it two years in a row. “As a team we knew that not many teams get the opportunity to get to play in a District final three years in a row, so we knew we had to take advantage of our opportunity,” she continued. “As a senior I made up my mind that we would not lose the District final for a third year in a row. Winning the District 4 title is by far the greatest memory I have from high school soccer.” Neimond broke the East Juniata record for goals when she scored her 108th goal on October 17th to pass Hailey Swartz for first on the all-time list. Nei-
mond finished her career with 114 goals. “For me, breaking the school record was just a bonus for the season,” she said. “I was more focused on the team as a whole. I definitely think that trying to break the record served as self-motivation, but it was not the focus of my game. As long as someone was scoring and as long as we continued to win games, I didn’t care who was scoring the goals. I am honored and thankful that I was recognized as TVL MVP and I am grateful for my teammates and coaches and all the memories from my senior season.” Neimond announced earlier this winter that she will be competing at the next level at Messiah College in Mechanicsburg in the fall. The Falcons are fresh off a Division III women’s soccer national championship, after posting a 23-1-2 record. The Falcons defeated William Smith, 1-0. The Falcons have won six national championships, so the program’s history as well as the education drew Neimond in. “I decided to play soccer at Messiah because of the reputation that they have as a program and the school as a whole,” Neimond said. “I always was kind of drawn to Messiah because it is close to home, it provides an amazing Christian atmosphere that I want for my college experience, and it offers a competitive level of soccer. I have never heard anyone say anything bad about Messiah’s soccer program, in fact, many people speak very highly of Messiah women’s soccer.” Neimond said that her recruiting process was draining and something that she had started late in her high
school career, but was rewarding in the end. “I met the coach over the summer and then I attended a camp there and I immediately knew that it was where I was meant to be,” Neimond said. “Messiah gives me a place to play the sport I love while I am surrounded by like-minded people.” Messiah coach Scott Frey mentioned that it was Neimond’s intangible skills that set her apart. “I’m not sure what all Coach Frey saw in me that he recruited me, but when he offered me a spot, he said that I was a perfect fit for the team,” she said. “He said that my work ethic, strength, speed, and attitude were a good fit for Messiah women’s soccer.” Neimond cherishes the memories her East Juniata career provided her with and to her, the memories of hard work and being a part of something greater are the things she will look back on. “I can definitely say that preseasons are probably at the top of that list,” Neimond said. “If you ask any of my teammates, I think that they’d agree that preseason was the worst thing ever. There is no way I could forget struggling running 20 consecutive 400s with my teammates and not doing anything except run-
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Sentinel file photo
East Juniataʼs Thea Neimond, right, will play college soccer at Messiah, after a record setting career in a Tigers uniform.
ning in circles around the track. Although we all hated preseason, we all know that it helped us in the long run. “On a more positive note, I will forever remember our crazy, fun bus rides, our team rants, and the pure joy and celebrations that we had winning games as a team,” she continued. “But winning the District 4 title is by far See Neimond / Page 16
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EJ’s McDonald to play soccer at Lebanon Valley 8—Lewistown, PA
The Sentinel
Friday, April 24, 2020
SPORTS SHOWCASE
By WILLIAM WHISLER Sports editor
wwhisler@lewistownsentinel.com
COCOLAMUS — Being tenacious on defense isn’t something that is always glamorized and defense is something that is almost always overshadowed by offensive firepower. The East Juniata girls soccer team’ put up points in bunches, but the back lines were led by just as talented players that were crucial in the District 4 playoff run, giving the Tigers their first championship after three tries. In fact, the Tigers surrendered just 17 goals all season and didn’t allow a single goal in their district playoff run. The leader of the back line
was senior Madison McDonald, who excelled on defense, while also contributing in the midfield. McDonald announced her decision to play collegiate soccer at Lebanon Valley this past winter. “I have been playing soccer throughout my high school career and those four years have been my favorite,” McDonald said. “It wasn’t until my junior year that I decided that I wanted to play college soccer. I am so thankful for the opportunity to continue playing the sport that means the most to me and I am looking forward to the next four years.” McDonald visited multiple schools and attended an ID clinic in the spring of 2019 at Liberty University where she was introduced to Lebanon Valley coach Leah
McDermott, who welcomed her for an overnight visit in the fall. McDermott continued to recruit McDonald through the summer months and offered McDonald a spot around Christmas following the 2019 season. It was McDonald’s personality, along with her technical skills that made her a good fit, according to McDermott. “In one of our exchanged emails, Leah stated, ‘As I said after the clinic, you are definitely someone that we want to continue recruiting for our 2020 class and believe that you have the technical, tactical and personality characteristics that we want for our team,’” McDonald said, recalling the coaches’ message. “After this email I
realized how bad I wanted to be on Lebanon Valley’s women’s soccer team.” McDonald was honored as a 2019 Tri-Valley League Second Team All-Star in her senior season, a recognition that she was particularly proud of. “With my senior year ending I was sad, but so proud of me team for all of our accomplishments throughout the season,” McDonald said. “I was honored to be recognized as a TVL All-Star. The East Juniata girls soccer team has been a huge part of my life since freshman year and I am so thankful that I was recognized. I wouldn’t have been able to receive it without the help of my teammates.” See McDonald / Page 16
Sentinel file photo
Coach Valeria Dressler puts a medal around East Juniataʼs Madison McDonald at the District 4 title game.
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Phillips making a name for himself at Rhode Island Friday, April 24, 2020
The Sentinel
Lewistown, PA—9
SPORTS SHOWCASE
By KYLE BRADY Sentinel sports
kbrady@lewistownsentinel.com
LEWISTOWN—When former Mifflin County track star Seth Phillips was in the process of deciding which college he was going to attend in the fall of 2019, Rhode Island stood out among the rest. The program’s energy and interest in the Husky runner put them at the top of Phillips’ list, ahead of schools like Penn State and the University of South Carolina. “When I was going through the application process and I was looking at the different schools—trying to decide— I went on my official visit and Rhode Island seemed very into me,” Phillips said. “I went up and it was great. I loved it. When I came back, other schools didn’t show that as much. They (said they) would love to have me, but they didn’t have that enthusiasm.” It was at that visit where the Rams won Phillips over. The positive atmosphere started at the top with the coaching staff and made its
way down to the student-athletes. “The coaches seemed like they really wanted me,” Phillips said. “I met the whole team that day and they just had fun. They went to practice, and they enjoyed it, it wasn’t like a miserable practice. They carried that enthusiasm the whole night.” Rhode Island has a great track program and going into his freshman year, Phillips knew that he wasn’t going to immediately be as successful as he was in high school. Running at a Division I school would put him up against some of the best competition in the country. “When you go from a really good high school runner to a DI college where everyone was a really good high school runner, it’s a lot harder to win a race, let alone just being in it,” Phillips said. Coming off of a disappointing end to an otherwise successful high school career, Phillips wanted to to rise to the level of his competition and leave his career as a Husky in the past. Phillips looks back on his career fondly, but hasn’t let his showing at last year’s PIAA championships define his
legacy on the track. “Last year, it just kind of went all wrong. It didn’t really go how I wanted it to go. But you know, you can’t really get them all.” Phillips said after failing to make the finals in the 800-meter run. “I knew one bad race wasn’t the end, and honestly at that point everything (with Rhode Island) was set in stone.” Phillips’ best memories of running track for Mifflin County revolve around relays and the success he and his teammates found year in and year out. “Relays. Specifically, the 4x800,” Phillips said about his favorite high school track moments. “I had so many different teammates in that (race) and just about every Submitted photo courtesy of Mike Scott of RIU time, I enjoyed it. It was alFormer Mifflin County Husky Seth Phillips has burst onto the scene at Rhode Island. ways so much fun, and when we would win, it was even better. You could walk into the infield and everybody would come and crowd you. It was amazing to be a part of.” Phillips put together a heroic effort as the anchor of his relay team, helping them qualify for a state berth in his junior season. But, heading See Phillips / Page 17
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Former Husky Tristin Lockett competes at LHU 10—Lewistown, PA
Friday, April 24, 2020
The Sentinel
SPORTS SHOWCASE
By LUCAS LENZE
Sentinel reporter llenze@lewistownsentinel.com
LOCK HAVEN — Former Mifflin County baseball standout Tristin Lockett is in the process of finishing his freshman year at Lock Haven University. Lockett said his experience so far at LHU is the best he has had. “I was able to put myself out there, the baseball guys were all very welcoming, it’s like a brotherhood with them,” Lockett said.“The school work was overwhelming at first, but I got into a groove and am doing much Sentinel file photo better.” As a member of an exFormer Mifflin County Husky Tristin Lockett dominated at Mifflin County and has found tremely young roster, Locksuccess at Lock Haven, pitching a gem before the season was canceled. ett expected a season of growth. clear and he approaches break for players that will them with the same confi- see their careers come to an dence and swagger that he end, but his mindset will has everything else — he’s continue to carry him to success at the next level. award in back to back sea- prepared to dominate. “My goal as a college “My heart goes out to the sons. His success translated baseball player is to obvi- kids that aren’t going to into summer ball as well, ously be the best to ever play baseball after this,” he where Yetter pitched for play at that level. That’s said.“Going forward you Flood City Elite, a travel been my goal at every level can have two responses to • Lawn team based about an hour I’ve ever played in,” Yetter this mess. You can either Fertilization outside of Pittsburgh, as said. “It’s going to continue fold it in and call it a career, well as Mifflin County’s to get more challenging, but or you can find ways and • Weed American Legion team, that’s where hard work and get inventive and find a way Control Post 287. Yetter delivered a my tough mentality comes to continue your career. Eikey performance in an elim- into place. I’m super excited ther way, I’ve loved playing ination game in the Central for the next level. I think with every guy I ever did at • Tree Penn League American Le- I’m going learn a lot of Mifflin County and this Spraying gion tournament, throwing great things that help me place has treated me very well. I thank those guys for • Deep Root six innings, striking out going forward.” Yetter expressed heart- that.” seven and yielding just one Fertilization run on five hits. He also went 2-for-4 at the plate with three RBIs in an 11-1 victory over Altoona at Mansion Park last summer. Yetter expects to be a two-way player as of now at the next level, pitching and continuing to play a corner outfield spot. He believes We can protect you from paying that he will transition into a too much for insurance! pitcher only role later in his Call for a FREE quote. career. 511 Electric Avenue, Lewistown 717-248-4563 His goals in college are
“We are a very young team, there were 11 freshmen brought on this year. We know we could compete with any team and if we got on a roll we would be tough to beat,” Lockett said. Lockett believes Lock Haven’s future teams are going to be something with the youth and talent the team has. He also thanked coach Heath Stover and his teammates for the support he received throughout the offseason leading up to his freshman season. With the COVID-19 outbreak, Lockett’s first year was cut short. The Bald Eagles were practicing for an upcoming series with Millersville University. Stover received a phone call during a practice that other conferences were beginning
to cancel their seasons and that the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference was going to follow. “It kind of shocked us, everyone was being told things about the situation, we did not expect it to take shape that fast,” Lockett said. “The seniors where heartbroken when they heard.” During the quarantine, Lockett has been keeping busy and staying in shape to try and maintain form during this break. He has been working out at a private gym since his local gym closed. He also gets out to throw and lift whenever he gets the chance. “The situation kind of sucks,” Lockett said. “I miss LHU, miss the baseball guys, See Lockett / Page 18
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Juniata’s Pannebaker heads to Pitt-Greensburg Friday, April 24, 2020
Lewistown, PA—11
The Sentinel
SPORTS SHOWCASE
By WILLIAM WHISLER
MIFFLINTOWN — Juniata’s Nylah Pannebaker clearly was set on going out on top and the senior’s final soccer season showed just how good Pannebaker may become. The senior was stellar in the midfield, earning herself Tri-Valley First Team AllStar honors, as well as an opportunity to play at the next level. Pannebaker accounted for 35 points as a senior with 12 goals and 11 assists. “This was my best season with scoring goals,” Pannebaker said. “I knew that I had to practice and step up to become an attacking mid for my senior season. The
coaches moved me around to a couple different positions that I wasn’t used to playing, so I had to work extra hard. I was happy with my success at the end of the season. I made a lot of memories during this season that I will cherish.” Pannebaker helped lead Juniata through a lengthy district playoff run, serving as a captain in her final season. The Indians went 15-7 in 2019 and advanced to the District 6 semifinals, where they fell to Bald Eagle Area. “My senior year was my best year of soccer yet,” Pannebaker said. “The team worked hard as a group. We came together as a team. We had new coaches this year that helped the team get to districts. I worked hard every practice and had fun. I was
nominated as one of the captains for our team and I also ended the season as a firstteam All-Star midfielder for the league.” Pannebaker announced that she will be competing at the University of PittsburghGreensburg next season. PittGreensburg is a branch campus of the University of Pittsburgh. The Bobcats are a Division III program that competes in the Allegheny Mountain Collegiate Conference. Her decision to go to PittGreensburg centered around her love of the game and the campus itself, according to Pannebaker. “I wanted to continue my soccer career since I enjoy the sport and have been
schools, including Penn State, Temple, La Salle, Edinboro, Lock Haven and Duquesne. His final choice came down to Lock Haven, Edinboro and Shippensburg, before Macknair chose SU for its strength in his major, as well as on the track. “I chose Shippensburg for a number of reasons,” Macknair said. “It has a very strong reputation for my major (secondary education) and the cross country and track and field teams are among the highest ranked Division II programs in the nation. Shippensburg also had the best coach [Steve Spence, a former Olympian] among the schools I was looking at and it was also the cheapest option.” Macknair’s favorite memories in his high school career are simply just being a part of the team. “My favorite moments at
Mifflin County were the times I spent with my coaches and teammates,” Macknair said. “The best times of my life were spent with them at practices and competitions.” Macknair thanked his coaches for the success he had in high school and at the next level. “I would like to thank my coaches, Greg Loht, Jen Freed, Scott Gantz, Dick Yearick, Chris Tatom, and Scott Sechler for helping me to get to where I am at today,” he said. Injuries did cause Macknair to miss the indoor track season and he planned to carry a redshirt into the spring season, so the season’s cancellation did not affect Macknair’s eligibility much. “I suffered a fractured bone in my leg that was the result of a stress reaction,” Macknair said. “I was doing too much mileage and was overworking myself without proper recovery and my body collapsed under the
prolonged buildup of stress over time. “I had dealt was a severe hip injury during the cross country season along with a moderate back injury as well and it may have been a result of my legs working too hard to compensate for those injuries,” Macknair continued. “I have been sidelined since early December and am scheduled to return to running in early May. I swam and lifted for the first few months to maintain my fitness and was recently cleared to bike in March.” Despite the injury, Macknair is happy with how his first year went. “My experience at Shippensburg thus far has been a positive one,” he said. “Steve Spence is one of the most successful coaches in NCAA history so working under him has been an amazing experience. He is extremely knowledgeable on the sport and he is a great leader.”
Sports editor
wwhisler@lewistownsentinel.com
See Nylah / Page 16
Sentinel file photo
Juniataʼs Nylah Pannebaker, far right, heads the ball in a game in her senior season. Pannebaker will play college soccer at the University of Pittsburgh-Greensburg.
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on the soccer field, she was nearly as dominant on the basketball court. Swartz averaged 15.4 points per game in her varsity career, including a career high 18.9 points in her senior year. She left Juniata as the program’s all-time leading scorer with 1,553 points. This mark is tops in both boys and girls basketball at Juniata. I started playing when I was young,” Swartz said, recalling the night she broke the points’ record. “I played so many years and had great coaches along the way. It was great to have them there for that moment.” She looks back on her high school career fondly, with many memories that she continues to look back on today, including winning a District 6 title her freshman season and winning a Tri-Valley League title in basketball her senior year. In the fall, she will begin her junior soccer season at Lock Haven. Last season, Swartz led the Bald Eagles in points, netting four goals, while assisting on another pair of goals. “This season was a step up from freshman year. We had a new coach, new things to do, I was just fortunate enough to execute the things we were taught,” she added. Swartz made an immediate impact as a freshman, scoring in just her third game as a Bald Eagle.
The Sentinel She was also third on the team in scoring and named as the teams’ Rookie of the Year. Swartz had made an immediate impact that helped the team greatly. “I was happy to be a part of a team, a team that would grow together. It was also nice to give Janelle and the seniors a great end to their careers,” Swartz said. Looking ahead to the next two seasons, Swartz hopes to lead Lock Haven to the playoffs, among other things. “Getting better every year and growing as a team for sure,” she said. “We don’t want to slack off or drop the ball. I’d like to go back to the playoffs. It is a great experience and with a large incoming freshman class, it would be fun to get ourselves back there.” With the current COVID19 pandemic, people are looking for ways to stay healthy and manage their time. Swartz has been spending time with her family. Swartz said that there is always a new job for everyone to do around the house. Over break, they have painted nine rooms in the home. As far as staying in shape, the trainers have provided Swartz and the team workout routines so they won’t lose a step when they are ready to take the field again in the fall. Swartz’s sister, Janelle, was also a Lock Haven women’s soccer player. In Josie’s freshman season, the duo was reunited on the soccer field after playing together at Juniata. Janelle, now a graduate assis-
tant coach for the team, said that sharing the experience with Josie has meant a lot to her. “It was always nice to have someone else out there with you, someone who you knew was willing to put the work in just like I did,” Janelle said. “As the older sister, I passed that stuff down to them. I’d like to think they looked up to me as the older sister. There was a different dynamic being on the field with her. It was great to see her step up and reach a new level. The team really needed it. It did not take her long to step up to the plate.” After finishing her undergraduate program, Janelle continues on at Lock Haven in graduate school while serving as an assistant coach for the Bald Eagles. The opportunity allowed her to not only play with her sister, but to coach her as well. “It was great to see her step up another level. There are just things you don’t normally see when you are out there yourself,” Janelle said. “With a new coach it was good being able to be there to help the girls through the process of adjusting, as well as school work and helping the coach with things like recruiting requirements and the things like that. Coaching her sister is an experience she has really enjoyed. “To see what she did on the field, being able to watch her in games, on film and even during practice I was like ‘that’s my little sister,’” Janelle said. “I am so proud to be her older sister,” she said.
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Juniata’s Shellenberger to play soccer at Penn College 14—Lewistown, PA
Friday, April 24, 2020
The Sentinel
SPORTS SHOWCASE
By KYLE BRADY Sentinel sports
kbrady@lewistownsentinel.com
MIFFLINTOWN — In an already historic season, Juniata High School’s Tad Shellenberger rewrote the school’s record book, netting two goals in a 7-0 rout of Millersburg. Scoring two goals wasn’t an unusual feat for Shellenberger, but the goals held history value. Entering the game, Shellenberger sat at 72 career goals, which tied him with Corey Suiter for the most in Juniata boys soccer history. With just over 10 minutes remaining in the first half, Shellenberger received a pass behind the defense and fired a low shot that got past the goalie, setting the new record in front of the home crowd that came out to support the team on Senior Night. “Breaking the school record made me feel like I was in a dream for a few minutes; it is by far one of my proudest moments in life,” Shellenberger explained. “The experience of scoring the record-breaking goal was crazy. I would have never thought that the record-breaking goal was going to be on Senior Night with my friends from the football team coming to support me along with my family and close friends.” Suiter, who actually coached Shellenberger in mid-
dle school, reached out to congratulate the senior on his record goal. Shellenberger also mentioned that years ago, Suiter made a comment to him about the school’s goal record. “The former record holder, Suiter, was actually my 7th and 8th grade soccer coach,” Shellenberger said. “I remember him telling me ’If anyone was to break my record, I hope it (would) be you.’” For his superb season, in which he scored 27 goals, Shellenberger was unanimously named a first-team All-Star, which he takes immense pride in. “It felt like I was noticed by other coaches and that working hard every game gets you noticed,” Shellenberger said. “It was a little side goal of mine to get on the first team and winning with a unanimous vote felt amazing.” Along with the career goals record, Shellenberger also broke the single season record with 35 goals, tallied over 100 points in the Tri-Valley League, and led the Indians in goals in his final three years on the team. While Shellenberger’s personals goals were attained, his team eyed something larger: its first District 6 title. With Shellenberger leading the way, the Indians accomplished their goal and took home the district title. Even with the scoring record and all of the accolades that came
with it, Shellenberger knew that he could not win the District 6 championship by himself. “Winning the school’s first District 6 title for boys soccer meant the world to me. It meant that we were the best boys soccer team to ever go through Juniata and that made me feel like I was apart of a once in a lifetime team,” Shellenberger said. “The experience was amazing being able to achieve the things that we have achieved, I couldn’t have asked for better coaches, teammates and friends.” Shellenberger showcased his athletic prowess on more than just the soccer field. He made it to states for track and was named a second-team All-Star as a kicker for Juniata, an honor he did not expect but was pleasantly surprised to receive. “The experience was something different, I played football for five years in my childhood and my dad used to play football in high school so it’s like I almost had the football gene to play, and I enjoyed every second of it,” Shellenberger explained. “Being a second team all-star was surprising because I just wasn’t expecting it, but it was a nice surprise.” With all that he accomplished, Shellenberger was contacted by multiple schools, but Penn College of Technology stood out to him the most. “There were a lot of reasons
Sentinel file photo
Juniataʼs Tad Shellenberger put together one of the most productive careers in Indiansʼ history, leaving as the teamʼs all-time leading goal scorer.
why I chose Penn College; the main one of course being academics,” Shellenberger said. “My second personal priority was being able to play soccer for a high level team where I could get better as a player and a person. One huge thing that made Penn College stand out to me was how close it was to my family and friends.” See Tad / Page 17
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Juniata’s Carly Orris to play at Mercyhurst-NE Friday, April 24, 2020
Lewistown, PA—15
The Sentinel
SPORTS SHOWCASE
By WILLIAM WHISLER Sports editor
wwhisler@lewistownsentinel.com
MIFFLINTOWN— After a lengthy and grueling rehab, Juniata’s Carly Orris found herself in a similar situation before her senior season really took off. Orris, who had recovered from an ACL tear in January of 2019, tore her meniscus just three games into her final season. The injury was devastating and at first, Orris gave up on playing at the next level. Later that year, the coaching staff at Mercyhurst Northeast — a branch campus of Mercyhurst that competes as a junior college — reached out to Orris. “After being injured for my senior year, I wasn’t really looking to play anymore,” Orris recalled. “The coach reached out to me and knew about my injuries and still wanted me to potentially play for them.” Orris eventually chose to further her playing career at Mercyhurst Northeast, choosing the Saints over Penn State Harrisburg and Penn Tech. Her recruiting process was an enjoyable experience, as the talented defender put her name out there with the hopes of playing at the next level. “It wasn’t bad, I put myself out there on recruiting websites and reached out to a few coaches,” Orris said. “Overall it was a good experience.” Orris stood out to the coaches at the school because of her aggressiveness and determination when she wasn’t playing, as she worked herself back from multiple injuries. “The Mercyhurst coach told me he liked my aggres-
siveness on the field and my work ethic on and off the field,” Orris said. In Orris’ junior season, she helped lead a strong defensive unit that rarely conceded goals and was recognized by the league as a Tri-Valley League Second Team All-Star. “After receiving this type of recognition, it truly meant a lot to me,” Orris said. “It was always a goal of mine to make the all-star team.” Defensively, despite not being able to play, Juniata’s success was something that Orris took pride in. The team finished with a 15-7 record and advanced to the District 6 semifinals in 2019. Unfortunately, I only got to play three games with this amazing team, but in the three games I got to play, I knew they were going to go far,” Orris said. “The team put in a lot of hard work on and off the field to better themselves and it really did pay off.” Orris remembered the goals the team set in the preseason and was proud to see some of them come to fruition. “At the beginning of the season we had a goalsetting session where we talked about goals to set this season, one being how many goals we thought we would end up giving up,” Orris said. “Being part of that strong defense my junior year, I was excited to help carry that over into my senior year as well.” Orris’ major is fitting after the hardships she overcame in her own career. Orris plans to study to become a physical therapy assistant. Her favorite high school memory came in her freshman season, when the Indians advanced to the opening
round of the PIAA Class 2A championships in 2016. “My favorite memory throughout my high school career would have to be getting to play in the state playoff game my freshman year,” Orris said. She thanked her coaches, teammates, parents and the athletic trainer for helping her get to where she is today. “I would just like to thank all my high school coaches for everything they’ve taught me,” Orris said “I
would also like to thank my travel coach Brian Robinson for everything he’s done for me and giving me the opportunity to play at college showcases to further my playing career. “I would also like to thank my teammates for always pushing me to become a better player. Lastly, I would like to thank my parents and Anita our athletic trainer, for always supporting me and motivating me to get back out there and work harder.”
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Juniataʼs Carly Orris overcame two devastating knee injuries to play soccer at the collegiate level.
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SPORTS SHOWCASE The defensive effort for the Tigers is probably what McDonald was most pleased with in her senior season. “As a defender, I can speak for most of us when I say that there is a lot of pressure on us,” McDonald said. “We are expected to not let the ball get past us and to the goalie. In the last three years, our defense didn’t give up many goals, which is pretty good. During our district run I was very happy with our defense and our goalie for not giving us a single goal during those three games. It was a big achievement for us, because my coaches expected that from us and we did just that.” In her senior year, McDonald became a more versatile player, scoring eight Sentinel file photo goals and adding five assists. East Juniataʼs Madison McDonald, left, played extremely McDonald was originally an
well on the back lines, earning a spot to play in college.
playing since I was 4 years old,” she said. “It is a nice small campus and the coaches are very welcoming.” The Juniata senior created a profile on the Next College Student Athlete website and was discovered by Pitt-Greensburg. “I have a profile on the NCSA website and the coaches at University of Pittsburgh at Greensburg found me on the website, did their research, and contacted me,” Pannebaker said. “I played in college showcase tournaments with my club soccer team which gave me exposure to different colleges. I chose from University of Pittsburgh at Greensburg, Messiah College, and Lebanon Valley College.” The coaching staff loved Pannebaker’s ability to play multiple positions on the field. “For my club team I play center back,” Pannebaker said.
Friday, April 24, 2020
The Sentinel
“Pitt-Greensburg said that they liked how versatile of a player I am. They also said that I was fast and that I was a strong defender with a lot of athletic ability.” Pannebaker will miss playing with her sister, Ashlyn, but cherishes the memories. “My favorite memory was heading the ball off a corner kick and scoring. Another favorite memory of mine were the bus rides,” Pannebaker recalled. “Being up front with my sister this year was so much fun. We were always so competitive with each other at
practices which made us both better players.” Pannebaker plans to major in physical therapy in college. “I want to thank my parents for supporting me throughout my soccer career,” Pannebaker said. “I would like to thank all my coaches through my high school career. I would also like to thank my club soccer coach Brian Robinson for taking a chance on me and making me a member of the team. I would like to thank coaches Laresa and Garrick Paden for a memorable, successful, and fun season.”
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offensive player, but the switch was one that paid off exponentially. “As a freshman I played offense most of the season and was upset when I switched to defense,” McDonald recalled. “I hated it at first. I love it now. I think since I had a lot of experience offensively, I was eager to try and score goals I was scoring my freshman year. My coaches knew how bad I wanted to score some goals, so they made sure it could happen. I enjoyed being able to play both positions and contribute to my team.” McDonald’s favorite high school soccer memories include the District championship, state playoff runs and playing alongside the other senior players. “By far my favorite memory was winning a district championship this year,” McDonald said. “We were at districts two years and fell short of the gold. That feel-
ing is devastating — knowing you’re so close, but not being able to finish the job. This year, that feeling was great as we finally won a district championship. “Another favorite memory are all of our runs to the state playoffs,” McDonald continued. “It’s just a cool experience and I’m so thankful for those opportunities. Playing alongside the other three seniors, Thea, Clayre and Paris. I have played with them for a long time and seeing them develop into the soccer players they are today makes me so happy. I loved every single season since freshman year and the bond that we had.” McDonald plans to major in exercise science and will later go into the physical therapy program at Lebanon Valley. She also thanked her parents, her travel and high school coaches for giving her the opportunities to
reach her potential. “I have had so many people who supported me every step. I would like to thank my parents for everything they’ve done for me in the past 12 years,” McDonald said. “They took me to every practice, game and tournament and supported me financially with the sport to make sure I could be at every tournament in the summer. “My travel coaches, Matt Beaver and Brian Robinson showed me my love for soccer and brought out my potential,” McDonald continued. “These two have put in a lot of time and patience with me and supported me throughout my years of soccer. My high school coaches, Val and Christian Dressler, made my love for soccer grow and they are the reason I decided to play college soccer. They knew my potential and pushed me to take my skills to the next level.”
the greatest memory I have from soccer at East Juniata.” Neimond is especially thankful for the opportunity to play soccer and the people who have supporter her throughout her athletic career.
“I am so grateful for my time at East Juniata High School and the opportunity to continue playing soccer at Messiah College,” Neimond said. “I am thankful for the teammates that have been my second family over the years. I am thankful for the amazing support system that I’ve always had behind me from my
family, friends, coaches, and the community. “All these people have helped me become a better soccer player and better person overall and I am so thankful for that. Now that my senior year has been cut short, I really appreciate the time that I did have as an athlete at East Juniata.”
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The Sentinel
SPORTS SHOWCASE
Sentinel file photo
Mifflin Countyʼs Seth Phillips, center, competes in the 800-meter dash at the 2019 PIAA championships at Shippensburg University.
into his freshman year at Rhode Island, Phillips knew that he would have to start at square one, and hopefully work his way up to the top, an idea that brought on a few nerves. “The first meet we had
was an intersquad meet and the nerves were there. For no reason either, it was just a small meet,” Phillips explained. “Regardless, it was (my) first time competing in college and (I was) just wired. You don’t know what to do, you don’t know how to do it and it was a race I had never run before either.” After his first two colle-
When invited to go on a personal tour, the coach of Penn College showed Shellenberger around to help him learn his way around campus, and picture what attending the college would be like. “The coach of the men’s soccer team invited me to go on a personal tour with him around campus and that made me see things a little better,” Shellenberger said. “I showed my interest to Penn College and the coach showed me what they offer as a player and a student.” He plans to study robotics engineering and automation engineering and design when he attends Penn College. As he
looks toward his future at the collegiate level, some high school memories that will stick in his mind besides his accomplishments on the field are bus rides with his teammates, soccer practices, making new friends every year and seeing his family in the stands. With all of the success he found in high school, Shellenberger thanked those closest to him for helping him become the person, and the athlete, that he has become. “I would like to thank my close friends for pushing me during the offseason, all of the teammates that have helped me reach my personal goals,” Shellenberger said. “But most importantly, my mom, dad, and brother. I wouldn’t be the person I am today without my family.”
giate meets, the nerves subsided for Phillips and he was able to get in a groove that turned his freshman season around. “The next meet came up and it was our actual first meet. The nerves were still there. And again, they kinda got in the way... The more meets you go through, the less it becomes a problem
and the more (everything) starts to flow,” Phillips said. “”I was pretty content with (my freshman year). I know I didn’t make the [Atlantic 10] championships. I qualified, but I didn’t actually make it.” Phillips posted a time good enough to qualify for the Atlantic 10 Conference championships, however, his teammates put up better times which ultimately prevented the freshman from competing. “One of the seniors told me, ‘You’re not bad, you’re good. You actually would have made the finals in the championships.’ The problem was, we had three other people that made the finals in the championships,” Phillips said. “We have such a deep roster. That’s a good and a bad thing. The team is going to win most of the time, but the problem is, are you going to be there, or are you going to be cheering for them,” Phillips explained. Going from a star runner to a supportive underclassmen was a bit of a change for Phillips. Instead of competing, Phillips went to the meet to cheer on his teammates
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that qualified for the championships—something that Phillips had never done before. “It was a new experience because I had never gone to a meet just to be there. So, I had to get used that. I think it was definitely a learning experience and I took a lot away from it—just being more of a team player than I was,” Phillips said. Along with becoming more of a team player, Phillips mentioned that he has a lot he wants to improve upon, including starting his summer training earlier, getting stronger and learning as much as he can. Unfortunately, all of that will have to wait. With the coronavirus pandemic canceling the outdoor spring season, Phillips will be forced to work out on his own and focus on the indoor track season—which he isn’t a huge fan of. “I accepted it. I knew it was going to happen,” Phillips said about the spring season being canceled. “After the Ivy League schools pulled out of the spring season, I kinda figured it was going to happen. I’m
kinda mad about it too. I hate indoor track—I like outdoor. And just the fact that I will have back-to-back indoor seasons with nothing in between them, is kinda demoralizing.” With an extra year of eligibility, in a few years, Phillips will have to decide whether he wants to run track a year after he is slated to graduate. Since Phillips hasn’t yet declared what field he wants to study, the thought of his extra year of eligibility hasn’t crossed his mind too often. “I don’t’ know. I’ll definitely keep that in mind, but I don’t know if an extra season of track is worth an extra $40,000 (in tuition),” Phillips said. Until Phillips can get back to Rhode Island and continue working with his teammates, he’ll have to train alone, using what they taught him as a guide to staying in shape to run at the collegiate level. “They really helped push me,” Phillips said. “A lot of the older guys helped me and showed me what to do. Everybody was really patient with me when I was learning what to do.”
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miss my friends. I am excited to get back and get back out with everyone.” Lockett appeared in three games in his freshman season before the year was canceled, including a game in which he pitched six scoreless innings at Virginia State University. Lockett scattered five hits and three walks while striking out two batters to earn his first collegiate victory. With the NCAA offering an extra year of eligibility to spring athletes if their leagues and schools allow players to take them, Lockett is unsure on if he will use the extra year if he is offered one. “I might not use it, not 100 percent sure on it yet,” Lockett said. “I have to see where my classes are at before making any decision. Academics come first, then if I can, I will.” In the mean time, the former Husky is working to improve his arsenal, as the right-hander possesses a two and four-seam fastball, a changeup and a curveball. Lockett consistently hits 8688 mph on his fastball, topping out at 89 mph. Lockett’s goal for himself is to reach 91 mph by the fall. Lockett was dominant in his time at Mifflin County High School. Baseball was his lone sport. From the time he was little, he has played for travel ball teams, played in tournaments with college recruits present, high school, American Legion baseball and now at the collegiate level. “It was a great experience, I wouldn’t trade it for the world,” Lockett said. “Playing with all my friends, the way it brought us all together. The transition to college was a big change. The competition was better and the coaching was different than it was
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Tristin Lockett looks to use his short season and the time off during the COVID-19 pandemic to better his game.
in high school.” Some of Lockett’s favorite memories were the bus rides home from an away game, especially after a win. All the players would have their music going and jamming out singing together. Another favorite memory was whenever Lockett played against Red Land. “I always played well against them,” he recalled. “I just wanted to beat them so bad, I want to compete.” During his last season of American Legion baseball with Post 287, the team had one of the best runs in its history. Lockett played in seven games that season, in order to save his arm for the college season. Even if he wasn’t playing, he was still there to support the team. “We are all friends, best friends, we had a great bond and playing with those guys
was something I will never forget,” Lockett said. Lockett was also a part of a combined no-hitter during the legion season. Lockett and Colby Bodtorf combined to no hit State College. “Coming into the game me and Colby were not expecting it to happen,” Lockett said. After the pitching change the two looked at each other and they knew they would finish it off, Lockett recalled. Lockett thanked his coach and support system who helped get him to the where he is today. “I want to thank God for giving me the opportunity to play the game I love, Coach Stover, for the opportunity to play at the next level, my travel ball coaches, Coach Furman and Coach Espido. I want to thank my parents, friends and family as well,” Lockett said.
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THE BUTCHER’S BUNDLE 4 (5 oz.) Butcher’s Cut Filet Mignons 4 (4 oz.) Boneless Pork Chops 4 (4 oz.) Omaha Steaks Burgers 4 (3 oz.) Gourmet Jumbo Franks 4 (2.8 oz.) Potatoes au Gratin 4 (4 oz.) Caramel Apple Tartlets Omaha Steaks Seasoning Packet $238.91* separately
COMBO PRICE
$
69 0
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+ 4 MORE BURGERS FREE!
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| OmahaSteaks.com/dinner310
Ask for The Butcher’s
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61086MYH
*Savings shown over aggregated single item base price. Limit 2. Free burgers will be sent to each shipping address that includes (61086). Standard S&H added per address. Not valid with other offers. Expires 5/31/20. All purchases subject to Omaha Steaks, Inc. Terms of Use & Privacy Policy: omahasteaks.com/terms-of-useOSI and omahasteaks .com/info/privacy-policy or call 1-800-228-9872. Photos exemplary of product advertised.
Friday, April 24, 2020
The Sentinel
Lewistown, PAâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;19
Woodlawn, Lewistown | 717.248.6727 Stephen C. Burke, Supervisor
Burnham | 717.248.7853 Geoffrey A. Burke, Supervisor
Logan Street, Lewistown | 717.248.7823 Dan Kochenderfer, Supervisor
20—Lewistown, PA
SIX DIFFERENT TYPES OF MULCH: • Double Ground • Red • Black • Super Black • Brown • First Grade Bark • Rubber Mulch (Special Order)
Are You Ready for Spring?
TYPES OF SAND: • Brown Sand • White Sand • Yellow Sand • BC Sand
ROUTE 333 SUPPLIES LLC 717-527-4220
SPRUCE UP YOUR YARD • Pelletized Lime • Weed N’ Feed • Fertilizer • Lawn Seed • Preen • Grub Control • Peat Moss • Lawn Edging Locally Owned & Operated
Friday, April 24, 2020
The Sentinel
Locally Owned & Operated
LOCATED ALONG
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www.rte333supplies.com sales@rte333supplies.com
Mon - Fri. 7am - 5pm; Sat. 7am - 3pm
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