The Mets Are the Latest Stop in Travis Jankowski’s MLB Odyssey
BY JEFF FALK
There’s a difference between lucky and fortunate, and being fortunate takes on many different forms. Travis Jankowski is fortunate, but he has created his own good fortune.
Through perseverance, persistence and positivity, Jankowski has carved out his own personal niche in Major League Baseball. And do you know what else Jankowski is? Grateful. “I think (perseverance, persistence and positivity) are the cornerstones,” said Jankowski. “In baseball, we’re failing 70 to 75% of the time. If you don’t have resiliency, you’re not going to last in this game. These are challenges, not obstacles. Those things have all contributed to it. That’s the make-up of 99% of majorleaguers. Talent only takes you so far. You have to do something to separate yourself.”
A 2009 graduate of Lancaster Catholic High School, Jankowski is an outfielder in New York Mets organization. Jankowski was signed by the Mets on June 10, about a week after being released by the Tampa Bay Rays.
Jankowski is in his 11th season as a bigleaguer, and the New York Mets are the eighth franchise for which he has played.
After being acquired from the Chicago White Sox on April 26, Jankowski appeared in 14 games for the Rays. In his 31 at-bats with Tampa Bay, Jankowski batted .258 with six runs, two RBIs, two stolen bases and two doubles.
“This has probably been the most whirlwind season I’ve had,” said Jankowski, who spoke with the Manheim Township Merchandiser before his release from Tampa Bay. “It’s been a whirlwind, but it’s been so much fun. It’s a blessing. If I’m in the big leagues, no matter where I’m at, I’m pretty happy.”
After starring at SUNY-Stony Brook, Jankowski was drafted 44th overall by the San Diego Padres in 2012. The former Crusader also enjoyed stints with Cincinnati, Philadelphia, the Mets and Seattle before winning the World Series with Texas in 2023.
“For me, my career has fulfilled every expectation I’ve had,” said Jankowski. “I won a World Series in 2023; that’s an opportunity kids look
BY GEORGE DEIBEL
Lynn Walker was worried.
In 2013, after her son Caleb had undergone his third brain surgery, a friend sent the family away for an extended weekend trip to Ocean City, N.J.
Caleb explained that while biking by the ocean he had felt normal for the first time in four years. “He said, ‘When you get away from everything else, you get to feel normal. This is what I want to give people,’” said Lynn.
For the last 11 years, the organization Caleb formed, A Week Away Foundation, has
Caleb had been gone for more than two hours on a beach bike expedition, and Lynn was getting anxious. “Caleb comes bursting through the door and says, ‘I know what I’m going to do! I’m going to start a foundation!’” Lynn recalled.
BY JEFF FALK
There are touchdowns and first downs. There are offenses and defenses. There are teammates and opponents.
It’s the same flag football game. The Chuckie Magee Flag Football and Cheerleading League just plays it a bit differently.
“Our (participants) are more in it for the fun than the competition,” said Madison Heider, a program director at Aaron’s Acres and the league’s unofficial commissioner. “They just like to
LCHS graduate Travis Jankowski played in 14 games for Tampa Bay this season.
Cheerleaders inspire players during a Chuckie Magee Flag Football
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Lititz Is as American as Old Glory, Freedom and Pie-Eating Contests
BY JEFF FALK
It is sometimes difficult to find common ground, to identify things we agree on. A special kind of platonic love, patriotism possesses the power to unite the citizens of the United States.
“To me personally, patriotism means you love your country,” said Kellye Martin, who’s been heading the Lititz Springs Park board’s Fourth of July committee for nine years. “You have the freedom to celebrate. (The country) is a melting pot, and all of our different backgrounds is what we’re looking at this year. When you put them all together, it makes a beautiful mosaic. We love to see the red, white and blue everywhere. We have the freedom to gather and put all of our differences aside and say we’re grateful for today.”
Patriotism will be just one of the major themes celebrated when the park board stages its annual Independence Day festivities for the 207th time at
Lititz Springs Park, 24 N. Broad St., on Friday, July 4. There is an admission fee associated with the afternoon and evening celebration, which features entertainment, food and community fellowship and serves as Lititz Springs Park’s only fundraiser of the year.
The rain date for event is Saturday, July 5.
“One of the reasons that people love this event is because it feels like something from another era,” said Martin. “It’s Americana. There aren’t many place like this left. These are really special traditions we’ve held on to, and we want the next generation to experience these events. We want to kind of push the envelope with what we can do.”
Festivities will get underway at 11 a.m. with the Lititz Lions Club’s patriotic parade through downtown. The 60-minute parade will form at Locust Street and East Main Street, process west to the square, take a left on Broad Street, then a right on Orange Street before disbanding at Warwick High School.
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Travis Jankowski
for in T-ball. There are some people who would probably say, ‘He’s been a fourth or fifth outfielder for his entire career.’ For me, it’s just noise. If you would’ve told me when I was drafted that I would still be playing in the big leagues in 2025 and would have a World Series ring, I would’ve said, ‘That’s great.’”
“Looking back on my career, I don’t think you can say that it’s been anything but successful,” continued Jankowski. “There are obvious reasons for it. I’ve had great coaching, great teammates, and I’ve been on great teams. I think another reason is being present in the moment.
One of reasons that’s not as obvious might be my faith. As much as I love this game, it’s not who I am; it’s what I do. You need an anchor. I attribute my success to being grounded in my faith. I have an incredible support system.”
Jankowski was born in Ephrata and grew up in West Hempfield Township. The work ethic that Jankowski developed at Lancaster Catholic, where he played baseball, football and basketball, has served him well during his career.
“For me, those were
incredible days,” said Jankowski. “Getting up early, going to the weight room every single day, going to classes and then practicing was a routine, but it wasn’t fun. You’ve got to be uncomfortable at times to achieve your dreams. I think that work ethic and determination becomes a lifestyle. It’s a choice you make every day.”
Now 34, Jankowski still has a lot to give to the game, not the least of which is himself.
“From a physical standpoint, my body still feels great,” said Jankowski. “I’m still getting through the long days. The two things that will end my career are when teams stop paying me to play or when I hear from my kids, ‘Daddy, we need you home more.’”
“I’m not naïve enough to think I’m this great major league player,” continued Jankowski. “I’ve been around a lot of great players, and I’ve adapted my style of play. There’s a very short window in this game to make money for your family. If I can do something to lead or to help another player, I’m going to do it. I’m a selfless player who will do anything to help the team win.”
Lititz Chocolate Walk Slated
Lititz Springs Park will open the gates for its Fourth of July celebration at noon, and the annual baby parade will get things started at 12:30 p.m. The park bandshell entertainment will feature the Lititz Community Band at 1 p.m., the adult pie-eating contest and the kids’ whoopie pie-eating contest at 2 p.m., the yacht rock band Three Hour Tour at 3 p.m., the Jesse Zimmerman Band at 4:30 p.m. and the 11-piece ensemble band The Maxwell Project at
See Lititz pg 3
Tickets will go on sale on Tuesday, July 1, at midnight for the 24th Lititz Chocolate Walk hosted by the Kiwanis Club of Lititz Area. The walk will take place on Saturday, Oct. 11, with more than 25 stops throughout downtown Lititz serving chocolate treats.
Tickets for the walk usually sell out, so early ticket purchase is recommended. Tickets may be purchased by cash or check at Wilbur Chocolate, 45 N. Broad St., Lititz; Zum Anker Alley Shoppes, 22 E. Main St. (rear), Lititz; Aaron’s Books, 35 E. Main St.,
Lititz; Lititz Public Library, 651 Kissel Hill Road, Lititz; and Manheim Township Public Library, 595 Granite Run Drive, Lancaster. Credit card purchases may be made at www.lititz chocolatewalk.com for an additional fee.
Planning for this year’s walk is headed by Lititz Chocolate Walk founder and chair Mark Freeman. There will be both old favorites and new chocolatiers featured on the walk.
For more information, contact Michele Rossi at mlrossi444@gmail.com or 717-507-5102.
The Kiwanis Club of Lititz Area is part of Kiwanis International,a worldwide service organization that is devoted to serving the children of the world, one child and one community at a time.
For more information about the Kiwanis Club, contact Charlie Stickler at 717-560-2295, email kiwanis clublititz@gmail.com, or visit lititzkiwanis.org.
A Week Away
been providing families with weeklong vacations.
“Our mission is to provide respite weeks for families that are battling a life-threatening illness, thereby enabling them to come back refreshed from some time away so they can re-engage and continue to fight their disease,” said Lynn, who is the director of the registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit.
There are no age limitations for people going on the trip, which is for a patient diagnosed by a medical doctor and undergoing treatment, as well as family members and friends who have been caring for the patient since the diagnosis.
The site of the respites must be drivable and within a 500-mile radius of A Week Away’s coverage area, which is made up of Adams, Berks, Bucks, Chester, Cumberland, Delaware, Dauphin, Franklin, Lancaster, Lebanon, Lehigh, Montgomery, Perry, and York counties, along with Philadelphia.
A Week Away has granted 305 respites. Beaches are a popular destination, and the foundation also provides trips to the Pennsylvania mountains and will send families to urban areas if the patient has a particular interest in a cultural activity.
“The life of anyone involved with fighting
cancer or any chronic life-threatening illness is turmoil,” Lynn said. “It’s like living in a cement mixer, and they never, ever get a break. If we can take them out of that world, that reality, for a week and give them a stress-free experience at no cost for them, we can buy time. And if we have time, we can give God and science a chance to work.”
Before he was diagnosed with brain cancer after having a seizure, Caleb was a seemingly healthy senior at Lampeter-Strasburg High School two months before graduation with plans to study pre-med and wrestle in college.
He was briefly paralyzed following the first of his six brain surgeries but bounced back and was able to run and ride a bicycle.
Lynn recalls a visit to the Children’s Hospital of Pennsylvania when Caleb was 18. “He put his head on my shoulder and started crying,” she said. “That wasn’t like him at all.”
Caleb had noticed a young mother holding a tiny infant and said, “We’re so blessed. We have our family and our faith. Who helps them?”
Lynn said, “That was the day the seed (for the foundation) was planted. On the boardwalk, it sprouted.”
When he realized he would not have time to graduate from Millersville,
Caleb took on a variety of jobs in the city to raise money for A Week Away.
The Light the Tree campaign is one of the foundation’s big fundraisers. In 2014, Caleb arranged for an ill child to hit the button that turned on the lights on the Christmas tree in Penn Square. In October, he suffered 40 seizures in one day, and doctors told him he likely had less than a month to live. “You have to get me to my fundraiser,” Caleb responded.
He survived long enough to see the foundation grant its first respite and deliver a speech during the tree-lighting ceremony. Caleb died days later on Dec. 3, 2014, after becoming unconscious while writing thank you letters. It was one week before his 24th birthday.
Lynn keeps a collage on her desk featuring photos of some of the businesses and community members who have helped the foundation raise more than $2.5 million. “It’s a reminder that so many people have been with us for 11 years,” she said.
Lancaster County Motors Subaru sponsors the annual August golf tournament, which is already sold out. Members 1st Federal Credit Union, Speedwell Construction, and Hess Auctioneers are also major contributors. “My favorite donation is someone who
by George Deibel
gives $2 a month,” Lynn said. “That always puts a smile on my face.”
There are many avenues to help A Week Away, including the donation of a property that can host respites. “God has blessed this organization. He has taken care of it,” Lynn said. “(The organization) always needs money, but the best way to help us is to give us referrals. We want to help people.”
For more information about the A Week Away Foundation, go to www .aweekaway.org.
“It’s Caleb’s legacy,” said Lynn, who keeps a quote in her office that reads, “I’ve not heard your voice in years, but my heart has conversations with you every day.”
“This is my way of being able to support his dreams,” Lynn added. “There’s a little selfish part, too. It puts me in touch with people who loved him and who he loved.”
6:30 p.m.
At 8:15 p.m., the traditional Queen of Candles ceremony will be staged, followed by a DJ-infused dance party at 8:45 p.m. Lititz Springs Park’s famous choreographed fireworks display will get underway at 9:30 p.m.
“The committee is always asking itself, ‘How can we top last year?’” said Martin. “I think we’ve gotten a reputation of balancing small-town traditions and one of the best fireworks shows around. We try to give everybody what they’re looking for. We want to make sure we have enough to fill the day, but we don’t want to be overwhelming, so we build in breaks throughout the day. We hope
people enjoy it.”
The day’s events will be spiced up by the presence of 23 food trucks; a kids’ zone featuring games, crafts, rides, stories, face painting and a balloon artist from noon to 5 p.m.; and a teen zone starting at 5 p.m.
“I hear people say, ‘I remember when …’” said Martin. “Everyone has a different story to tell. To me, that says how special this event has been for so many years. So many people have made memories with their families.”
As many as 12,000 people are expected to attend Lititz Springs Park’s Fourth of July celebration - locals, individuals from surrounding communities and folks from across Lan-
Participants compete in last year’s whoopie pie-eating contest at Lititz Springs Park.
caster County. The park board is hoping to realize $100,000 from the event, which requires about 200 volunteers to stage.
“Lititz Springs Park is a private park for public use, and we get no funds to maintain it,” said Martin.
“(The Fourth of July celebration is) our one fundraiser, and it’s important our one fundraiser does well. The bulk of the money goes into maintaining the park grounds. We have to upgrade our equipment, and we have to pay our staff, and we also
operate the welcome center. All of those things are what the Fourth of July funds are used for.”
Lynn Walker is the director of A Week Away Foundation.
Photo
Lititz from pg 2
Manheim Community Blood Drive
705 Graystone Road, Manheim 17545 In the Bloodmobile
Tuesday, July 1st
• 11:00 am - 7:00 pm
Everyone will receive:
• 2 Lancaster Stormers ticket vouchers, good for any 2025 regular season home game
• Papa John’s buy one Large Pizza get one FREE certificate
• Penn Cinema Movie Pass
• Blood Donor T-Shirt
3 ways to schedule your donation appointment:
• go to 717GiveBlood.org
• call 1-800-771-0059
• scan the QR Code
AGING: WHAT’S THE PLAN?
Join in the conversation with other Lancaster County seniors about how we plan to remain informed, involved and independent in our homes and community. Learn about how a “village” supports neighbors helping neighbors.
IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN...
• Social Events
• Supportive Community
• Health & Wellbeing
• Help With Everyday Tasks
• Recommendations & Resources
• Neighbors Helping Neighbors
JOIN US AT ANY OF THESE LOCATIONS...
• June 26 - 1 P.M.: St. Luke’s UCC, 222 N. Broad St., Lititz
• July 16 - 1 P.M. Landis Homes, High Foundation Auditorium, 1001 E. Oregon Rd., Lititz
Should a “village” be part of the plan for Lititz?
More information can be found at https://lancaster.helpfulvillage.com
KBA Students Will Live and Learn Their Faith Every Day
BY JEFF FALK
Founding a school is a huge, complicated undertaking that requires in-depth planning and critical thinking, and it’s not without risk. For Kingdom Builders Academy (KBA), it is truly a leap of faith.
“It’s a larger undertaking because we’re starting from the ground up,” said KBA principal Kelly Burrows. “It takes a lot finances, a lot of people, and it takes a vision. The risk is you build all this, and are people going to come? Are people going to trust you because you’re a new school?”
KBA’s plans for opening at the start of 202526 school year are well involved. KBA, a nondenominational, faith-based school, will provide educational opportunities for children in kindergarten through eighth grade, with the school year beginning Tuesday, Aug. 26.
KBA is affiliated with
Church of the Word International, which meets at 2124 Old Philadelphia Pike, Lancaster. KBA will be housed in six rooms in a current building also located on Old Philadelphia Pike.
KBA, which is registered with the state as a private school related to a religious organization, is required to meet educational standards established by the Pennsylvania Department of Education. Depending upon its levels of success, KBA is also considering plans to extend educational offerings to students in grades nine through 12 in the future.
“We are creating lifelong learners,” said Burrows.
“We are raising (students) up to fulfill whatever it is God has called them to do. We want to provide opportunities for children to learn truth. Our school is going to have more parental involvement. It gives us a chance to partner with parents.”
After receiving Pennsylvania Department of Education approval in April, KBA is in the process of hiring a staff of about eight to 10 teachers, aides and staff members for the upcoming school year.
About six or seven families with school-age children from the Conestoga Valley, Warwick, Ephrata, Hempfield and Easter Lancaster County school districts, some of whom attend Church of the Word, have expressed interest in KBA.
KBA will operate under a hybrid educational model where students will attend classes in person on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays and attend classes virtually on Mondays and Fridays. Instruc-
tors will oversee grading and the development of lesson plans, and parents will be encouraged to take hands-on roles in their children’s education.
“Some of them are people who have expressed interest in faith-based education,” said Burrows, a resident of East Hempfield Township. “Some (of the families) are from church. Some are friends of friends. Some are just finding about it online. Some have said they are looking for a model like this. Some have said they’ve been praying for a church school to open up.”
“We kind of want to be a reflection of the church,” added Burrows. “(The school’s opening) has also spread through word of mouth. It’s starting to catch on now that we exist. We want to get our name into the community a little more.”
KBA will be funded mainly through tuition, but the school will also apply for educational grants.
“This year will be a building year while looking to expand to high school in
years to come,” said Burrows. “We’re hoping to be fully established by year three or four. ... We’ll be conducting yearly school evaluations, which will help us determine where we’re at.”
Families seeking private education in Lancaster County are afforded a wealth of learning options.
“I do think we have to distinguish ourselves,” said Burrows, noting that the hybrid aspect is one way of doing that. “I think parents want to be involved in their children’s educations, but they’re not required to come up with the curriculum.”
“This is something the Lord has put on my heart,” continued Burrows. “I really believe it’s the right timing for the school to exist. This is a place for growing and encouraging kids to be builders of the Kingdom of God. That’s how we’re going to speak to our kids and look at them. The school is going to be like a family.”
For additional information, go to www.kingdom buildersacademy.org or call 223-365-7758.
Church Plans Puzzle Palooza
Faith United Methodist Church, 1290 Fruitville Pike, Lititz, will host Puzzle Palooza on Saturday, July 12, from 1 to 2:30 p.m. The doors will open at 12:15 p.m. Teams of two to four people will race to complete a 500-piece puzzle as fast as possible. The winning team will receive
a prize, and all teams will be able to keep their puzzles after the event.
Preregistration is required, and space is limited to 20 teams. There is a fee per team. To register, visit www.faithumc.us, click on “Online Giving,” and choose “Puzzle Palooza.”
No refunds will be available if a team cannot attend the event. Individual team member substitutions are allowed.
Participants may join in a puzzle swap to exchange puzzles in good condition from 12:15 to 1 p.m. Proceeds from the event will help support the church’s ministries.
Children interested in Kingdom Builders Academy tour the private school’s facilities.
Flag Football
hang out. We have some people already looking forward to it. No one wants to miss a game. We might be lax with the rules, but we have referees. Having fun is the only special rule.”
Aaron’s Acres’ Chuckie Magee Flag Football and Cheerleading League is for individuals between the ages of 18 and 40 with intellectual and developmental disabilities is currently reforming and gearing up for another successful season. This year, games will be played in the gymnasium at Manheim Brethren in Christ Church, 54 N. Penryn Road, Manheim.
The 10-game season will open Saturday, Aug. 2, and conclude on Saturday, Nov. 8, with a celebratory awards banquet. Players, cheerleaders and volunteers interested in participating in the free program can register at www.aarons acres.org/programs/ chuckie-magee-flag-foot ball-cheerleading-league before Monday, June 30.
“We’re basically playing the whole time,” said Heider. “It can be challenging for this group to get into traditional exercise activities. This is an event where you can learn physical activity. (Clients) may not be looking for it, but it’s something they get from it. There’s certainly motivation for them to do their best.”
Last year, about 30
individuals participated in the Chuckie Magee Flag Football and Cheerleading League. This season’s goal is to add at least 10 more participants so four teams can be fielded and two games can be played simultaneously.
“My personal favorite part of the program is that anyone can play,” said Heider, a resident of Ephrata. “In other situations, our individuals might not be able to compete. It’s great to see everyone on the field.”
“The league is intended for adults with disabilities,” she added. “But anybody between the age of 18 and 40 can register. The majority of our participants are from Lancaster County, but we will serve whoever comes.”
The league is in its 10th year of operation and its fourth year as an Aaron’s Acres program. Founded by coach Randy Samuels, the Chuckie Magee Flag Football and Cheerleading League was named in honor of a former Aaron’s Acres camper who passed away in 2015.
“It was a friend’s group who started it,” said Heider. “From what I’ve seen, they were playing pickup in a field. It’s now an Aaron’s Acres program, and it’s become more of a formalized group. We have a little more resources, and it’s grown in numbers. Some of
Church To Host Rehearsals for Choir Festival
St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, 10 Delp Road, Lancaster, will host rehearsals for the Ocean Grove annual Choir Festival on Tuesday, July 15, and Thursday, July 17, from 7 to 8:30 p.m.
The 71st annual Choir Festival will be held in Ocean Grove, N.J., on Saturday, July 19, at 7 p.m.
The festival will feature a mass choir of singers from all over the Northeast and will be held in the Great Auditorium of the Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association. For more information about the Choir Festival, how to
the original members are still playing.”
The success of the league has served as a blueprint and laid the groundwork for subsequent Aaron’s Acres sports programs for individuals ages 18 to 40 with intellectual and developmental disabilities, like soccer and basketball.
“Some sports have grown off of it,” said Heider. “This program really focuses on physical activity. It really has been a breeding ground for our adult activities. We started with this football program, and it was an introduction into that 18-to-40 age group. It gave us ideas.”
Located at 1861 Charter Lane, Suite 114, Lancaster, Aaron’s Acres provides individuals between the ages of 5 and 40 with developmental and intellectual
disabilities opportunities to learn, grow and socialize through recreation, activities and programs. Aaron’s Acres, which was founded in 1998 as a summer camp for 11 individuals between the ages of 5 and 9, currently serves about 160 local residents across all of its programs.
“I started at Aaron’s Acres nine years ago as a camp counselor,” said Heider. “In those nine years, Aaron’s Acres has expanded their vision, and now they’ve expanded programs to meet that vision. It’s just a place to have fun. It’s fun for our participants, and it’s about safety for our parents. You see a lot of progress. We have opportunities to join us and to see what’s going on and how we facilitate these programs.”
register as a singer, and transportation options, visit www.oceangrove .org/festival-details. The local rehearsals at St. Peter’s will be led by Tom Berdos, music director at St. Peter’s, and Deborah Berdos, St. Peter’s organist. Tom Berdos also serves as one of the professional conductors at the Ocean Grove Choir Festival. For more details about the rehearsals and obtaining music, email office@stpeters lutheran.org.
For more information about St. Peter’s, visit stpeterslutheran.org or call 717-569-9211.
Giant Announces Healing the Planet Grant Program
The Giant Company, in partnership with Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful, recently announced the return of the Healing the Planet Grant Program.
The grant program, funded by the Giant Company, known locally as Giant and Martin’s, aims to invest in tree plantings across the company’s operating areas in Pennsylvania. A total of $112,000 in funding will be awarded to tax-exempt organizations for tree planting projects this year. Eligible projects must be shovel ready and include tree planting and direct costs relating to tree planting.
The 2025 Healing the Planet grant program is accepting online applications for grants of up to $4,000 now through Tuesday, July 1, via the Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful website. Individuals may visit www.keeppabeautiful.org/ grants-awards/grants and select “Healing the Planet Grant Program, funded by the Giant Company.”
Eligible expenses include but are not limited to trees native to Pennsylvania, equipment, tree signage, tools and supplies. Preference will be given to applications that aim to plant the highest number of trees. Awardees will be announced in late July.
This is the fifth year that the Giant Company has partnered with Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful to offer Healing the Planet grants.
In the past four years, more than $1.2 million has been awarded to 140 recipients for projects which connected people and families to green spaces; improved or helped to protect local waterways and water resources; supported projects that addressed food waste prevention, reduction and recovery; and promoted tree planting initiatives.
Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful has supported community improvement initiatives and encouraged community leadership, responsibility and respect for the environment since 1990. Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful, a state affiliate of Keep American Beautiful Inc. has more than 35 years of experience in organizing volunteer-driven community improvement events. Visit www.keeppabeautiful.org for more information on programs or to find local events.
Other ways that Giant works to heal the planet include zero-waste initiatives, offsetting emissions, reducing food waste and producing green energy and plastic reduction efforts. To learn more, visit www.giant foodstores.com/pages/ our-purpose.
Veritas Community Posts Sermon Series
The Veritas Community is offering a sermon series titled “Romans While We Are Roaming” during the summer. The series explores what the book of Romans says about salvation, God’s plan for the world, and the body of people who partner with God in that restoration.
The series started on June 1 and will run Sundays through Aug. 31. The dates and focuses are June 29, The Big Picture in Shorthand: Adam and the Messiah, Romans 5:12-17; July 6, 4th of July Weekend Picnic; July 13, Looking Back on Life Under the Law, Romans 7:13-20; July 20, Creation Renewed and Patient Hope, Romans 8:18-25; July 27, God’s Purpose and Justice, Romans 9:14-24; Aug. 3, The Remnant of Grace, Romans
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11:1-6; Aug. 10, The Living Sacrifice, Romans 12:1-5; Aug. 17, The Weak and the Strong, Romans 14:1-6; Aug. 24, Coming to Rome at Last, Romans 15:14-24; and Aug. 31, Labor Day Weekend Picnic at Buchanan Park pavilion.
A reading plan for the sermon series is available at https://tinyurl .com/3yhyafwz.
The Veritas Community gathers every Sunday at 10:30 a.m. on the second floor of HUB 450, 450 N. Prince St., Lancaster. The first 15 minutes of the event are dedicated to fellowship time. For more information about the Veritas Community, visit www .veritas.community, email Ryan Braught at ryan@ veritaschurchpa.org, or call or text 717-572-5914.
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BROTHER GARY BAILEY will bring the message “Ministering The Spirit In These Last Days“ to PARKESBURG WORD OF FAITH CHURCH. Sat., June 28th, 6:30pm & Sun., June 29th, 10:00am Contact 610-593-2277, or see directions at www.parkesburgwordoffaith.org
INFLATION IS AT 40 year highs. Interest rates are way up. Credit Cards. Medical Bills. Car Loans. Do you have $10k or more in debt? Call NATIONAL DEBT RELIEF and find out how to pay off your debt for significantly less than what you owe! FREE quote: 1-866-272-0492
REPLACE YOUR ROOF with the best looking and longest lasting material - steel from Erie Metal Roofs! Three styles and multiple colors available. Guaranteed to last a lifetime! Limited Time Offer - up to 50% off installation + Additional 10% off install (for military, health workers & 1st responders.) Call Erie Metal Roofs: 1-855-338-4807
ELDER CARE
ASSISTANCE FOR ELDERLY, caregivers provide hygiene assistance, meals, light housework in your home. Insured, Bonded, RN owned & operated. Call Visiting Angels, 717-393-3450.
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
Toys Vintage or Modern, New or Used, Hess Trucks, Barbies, Diecast, Hot Wheels & Matchbox, Action Figures, Models, Trains, Sports Cards/Memorabilia, Movie/Music Memorabilia, Video Games & much more!
Lawn & Garden
AFFORDABLE LANDSCAPING 717-208-2265 • SPRING CLEANUP, MULCH, EDGING, TRIMMING, PLANTING, SM. TREE/SHRUB REMOVAL. Sr. Discount!
FREE REMOVAL of Riding Mowers. Call/text Jim 717-940-9029
RAILROAD TIES FOR SALE #1. Delivery Available GAP REPAIR, 717-442-4781 ext. 2
Pets
ACA WELSH CORGI PUPPIES
Vet checked. b.4/14/25, some tricolor, adorable! $295.00. Call: 717-823-2832
MINI LABRADOODLE PUPPIES
Vet checked, sweetest pets. 2M, 2F CAVALIER PUPPIES
Tiny & adorable. Vet checked. 2M, 2F Ready Now! Call: 717-341-2668 ...
MINI POODLE FOR SALE - male, 8 months old, not neutered, hair color: caramel with white spots, eye color: light brown, vaccines up to date, trained, he's playful, loves people and does great around kids, a fan of cuddles and sleeps in his cage overnight :D Call 407-716-7697
POMERANIAN PUPPY, brown male, UTD vet checked, very cute. $395. Call: 717-285-7445
TOY POMERANIAN PUPPIES
Black & White. Ready to go $600. Call: 717-314-8818
YELLOW LAB/GOLDEN RETRIEVER
MIX PUPPIES, Cream color, UTD Shots, Ready now! $250. 717-405-8500
Miscellaneous
DENTAL INSURANCE FROM Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 350 plus procedures. Real dental insurance - NOT just a discount plan. Do not wait! Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details!1-877-5531891www.dental50plus.com/macnet#6258
DIRECTV OVER INTERNET - Get your favorite live TV, sports and local channels. 99% signal reliability! CHOICE Package, $84.99/mo. for 12 months. HBO Max and Premium Channels included for 3 mos. (w/CHOICE Package or higher.) No annual contract, no hidden fees! Some restrictions apply. Call IVS 1-866-629-6086
DISCOUNT METAL ROOFING & Siding for Houses, Barn, Sheds.Bare, Painted & Stainless Steel. Good Quality Sold As Seconds. Made in Ephrata, PA. Email: sales@7174455222, 717-445-5222
DON’T LET THE stairs limit your mobility! Discover the ideal solution for anyone who struggles on the stairs, is concerned about a fall, or wants to regain access to their entire home. Call AmeriGlide today! 1-844317-5246.
METAL ROOFING - A Real Roof for your House, Garage, Barn, also for Siding & Interior Liner. Seconds at Discount Prices. Made in Ephrata, PA. Email: sales@7174455222, 717-445-5222
PREPARE FOR POWER outages today with a GENERAC Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-855-465-7624 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move.
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GARAGE SALES
LEOLA THRIFT SHOPPE, 265 West Main St., between Mook’s Fabric & Sharp Shopper - Leola. 1/2 OFF Storewide Sale! Sat. 6/28 • 9-4
MULTI-FAMILY - MANHEIM TWP. Sunrise Ave. 6/28 • 8-2. You want it, we have it. Something for everyone!
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NATIONAL
AGING ROOF? NEW Homeowner? Storm Damage? You need a local expert provider that proudly stands behind their work. Fast, free estimate. Financing available. Call 1833-640-4753. Have property zip code!
BATH & SHOWER updates in as little as 1 DAY! Affordable prices - No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & military discounts available. 1-877-543-9189.
BECOME A PUBLISHED author. We want to read your book! Dorrance Publishing trusted since 1920. Consultation, production, promotion & distribution. Call for free author’s guide 1-877-729-4998 or visit dorranceinfo.com/ads.
CONSUMER CELLULAR - same reliable, nationwide coverage as the largest carriers. No long-term contract, no hidden fees, free activation. All plans feature unlimited talk & text, starting at just $20/mo. Call 1-877751-0866.
DENTAL INSURANCE FROM Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 400+ procedures. Real dental insurancenot just a discount plan. Get your free Information Kit with details! 1-855-5261060 www.dental50plus.com/ads #6258
DIRECTV STREAM - Carries the most local MLB Games! Choice Package $89.99/mo. for 12 mos. Stream on 20 devices at once. HBO Max incl. for 3 mos. (w/Choice Package or higher) No contract or hidden fees! Some restrictions apply. Call IVS 1-866-859-0405.
DON'T LET THE stairs limit your mobility! Discover the ideal solution for anyone who struggles on the stairs, is concerned about a fall or wants to regain access to their entire home. Call AmeriGlide today! 1-833399-3595.
DONATE YOUR CAR to Veterans Today! Help and Support our Veterans. Fast - FREE pick up. 100% tax deductible. Call 1-800245-0398.
HOME BREAK-INS TAKE less than 60 seconds. Don’t wait! Protect your family, your home, your assets now for as little as 70¢ a day! Call 1-833-890-1262
INFLATION IS AT 40 year highs. Interest rates are way up. Credit cards. Medical bills. Car loans. Do you have $10k or more in debt? Call National Debt Relief and find out how to pay off your debt for significantly less than what you owe! Free quote: Call 1-844-955-4930.
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. Offer ends 6/30/25) Call 1-844-501-3208.
MOBILEHELP AMERICA'S PREMIER mobile medical alert system. Whether you're home or away. For safety & peace of mind. No long term contracts! Free brochure! 1-888-489-3936.
GARAGE SALES
NATIONAL
PREPARE FOR POWER outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase* Call 1-855-948-6176 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move.
REPLACE YOUR ROOF w/the best looking & longest lasting material steel from Erie Metal Roofs! 3 styles & multiple colors available. Guaranteed to last a lifetime! Limited Time Offer up to 50% off install + Additional 10% off install (military, health & 1st responders.) 1-833-370-1234.
SUNSETTER. AMERICA’S NUMBER one awning! Instant shade at the touch of a button. Transform your deck or patio into an outdoor oasis. Up to 10-year limited warranty. Call now and SAVE $350 today! 1855-914-1148
WATER DAMAGE CLEANUP & Restoration. A small amount of water can lead to major damage in your home. Our trusted professionals do complete repairs to protect your family & your home’s value! Call 24/7: 1833-887-0117. Have property zip code!
WE BUY HOUSES for cash as-is! No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash offer & get paid. Get your fair cash offer today by calling Liz Buys Houses: 1-844-877-5833.
WESLEY FINANCIAL GROUP, LLC Timeshare Cancellation Experts. Over $50,000,000 in timeshare debt & fees cancelled in 2019. Get free info package & learn how to get rid of your timeshare! Free consultations. Over 450 positive reviews. 1-833-308-1971.
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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
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 This
SERVICES RENDERED
ANDY’S DRYWALL
Interior Remodeling, Hanging, Finishing, Framing, Painting, Basements, Additions, Insured. PA 022669. 717-587-4102
BUSY B TREE SERVICE LLC
Full Service Tree Removal and Trimming License and Insured. 7 Years Experience Call or Text Today For A Free Quote! 717-475-0828
CHIMNEY FALLING APART? WALLS NEED REPOINTED on Your HOUSE, BUILDING or BARN? WE CAN HELP YOU! WE CAN HELP YOU! Fix Your Bricks, LLC Fix Your Bricks, LLC Danny, Danny, 717-342-9039 717-342-9039 | Lic. & Ins.
CLOCK REPAIR - TRAGER 717-786-7053
DO YOU KNOW what’s in your water? Leaf Home Water Solutions offers FREE water testing and whole home water treatment systems that can be installed in as little as one day. 15% off your entire purchase. Plus 10% senior & military discounts. Restrictions apply. Schedule your FREE test today. Call 1-866-996-1526
DRYWALL & PLASTER REPAIR, warr. work; Prompt, clean, neat, prof. Satisfaction guar. 717-951-5077, MasterPlaster.
ELIMINATE GUTTER CLEANING forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today. 20% off Entire Purchase. Plus 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-855-791-1626
Grandfather, Wall, & Mantel Clocks Cleaned, Oiled, Repaired. We Make House Calls! Free Pick-up & Delivery 717-454-7925
GUTTER CLEANOUTS
Quality aluminum Leaf Guard Installation. SAME WEEK SERVICE. Exp. & insured. Call/text 717-715-5844 lv. msg.
GUTTERS, GUTTERS
PAINTING DONE RIGHT Int/Ext. Res/Com Detailed custom painting. 33yrs. exp/Refs. All related services, etc. 717-286-5464
SAFE STEP NORTH America’s #1 Walk-In Tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-the-line installation and service. Now featuring our FREE shower package and $1,600 off for a limited time! Call today! Financing available. Call Safe Step: 1-833-356-1954.
SEAMLESS GUTTERS, ROOFING, SOFFIT, FASCIA, GUTTER GUARDS Call Solanco Spouting & Exteriors Lic. & Insd. 717-824-2765
SPRING CLEAN UP! MOWING, BUSH TRIMMING, MULCHING, ETC. Call Craig at 717-342-4217 www.craigslancasterlawncare.com
STUMP GRINDING/REMOVAL!
Top soil if desired. Reasonable pricing. FREE ESTIMATES! Call: 717-598-9857
TONE’S SOLID CONTRUCTION Remodel • Basements • Additions Decks • Fences, etc. We do it all! Insd./PA176621 | 717-984-3865
Tree Trimming & Removal Land/Brush Clearing • Stump Grinding Since 1996 • 717-768-0114 SUNNYSLOPETREESERVICE.COM
TRIPLE P PAINTING Int/Ext. Res/Com, 35 yrs. exp. FREE ESTIMATES, Fully insured Eric, 717-615-6442 PA116089
NO MORE CLEANING gutters guaranteed! LeafFilter - most advanced gutter protection, backed by a no-clog guarantee & lifetime warranty. 1-833-610-1936 to schedule free inspection & estimate. Get 20% off! Seniors/military save extra 10%. Restrictions apply, see rep for warranty & details.
PORTABLE OXYGEN CONCENTRATOR May Be Covered by Medicare! Reclaim independence and mobility with the compact design and long-lasting battery of Inogen One. Free info kit! Call 1-877-305-1535
Call Mike Spinello, 717-464-5466 AFFORDABLE LANDSCAPING SPRING CLEANUP MULCHING Trimming/Planting Small Tree and Shrub Removal Neglected Overgrowth Cleanup Fast, reliable service. Lic/Insd. Sr.
go out of state). Fair prices for Clean Outs of Attics, Basements. 717-442-3301
Clean, Repair, Gutter Guards. Property Maint. by Steve. 717-892-7411
HANDYMAN
STATES CONSTRUCTION, LLC Painting • Wood/Ceramic Flooring Kitchen/Bath Wall Tile. Kyle: 717-371-8290
HANDYMAN: Painting. Land/Hardscaping. Gutters/Guards, Decks, Siding, Roofing, Mailboxes, 717-826-3680
HARDWOOD FLOOR REFINISHING & INSTALLATION Since 1996. Affordable. Superb work. Licensed. woodfloor.simdif.com 717-468-1164
HAULING, JUNK REMOVAL. Bsmts, sheds, garages cleaned out. Tree brush. Odd jobs. We also move people. Free est. Visa/MC/ Disc/AmEx. 717-456-6051; 410-688-7569 CRASS HAULING
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. (Offer ends 6/30/25) Call 1-844-826-2535
JUNK REMOVAL
Basements, garages, attics, appliances. Five Star Property Service, 717-278-1030
LAND CLEARING SERVICES Forestry Mulching, Bush Hogging and more. Stronghold Property Services PA#114461 Call 717-925-0418 LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE
VAN’S TREES VAN’S TREES: Shrub, Tree trimming, Gardening, Mulching. SP Senior Rates. Insured. 717-393-7729
W. IRON RAILS, gates, fences, restore, concrete, ext. painting. Since 1988 BUCH CUSTOM WELDING 717-664-4388
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. 1-844-887-5145 (PA017137).
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ITEMS
WANTED ALWAYS BUYING Classic, Muscle & Sports Cars Jeff Gast, 717-575-4561
BUYING CLASSIC CARS, TRUCKS, SUVs **American and Foreign** Any Condition. Buying entire car collections. $$PAYING CA$H$$ Please call 717-5778206 KRMiller1965@yahoo.com
BUYING GOLD COINS, Rare Coins, Gold Bars/Ingots *American and Foreign*, Highest Prices Paid, $$PAYING CASH$$. Please call Tony 717-723-9505 or info@cabbage-coins.com
CORVETTES WANTED 1953 thru 2019 Jeff Gast, 717-575-4561
DONATE YOUR CAR, truck, boat, RV and more to support our veterans! Schedule a FAST, FREE vehicle pickup and receive a top tax deduction! Call Veteran Car Donations at 1-877-327-0686 today!
GET A BREAK on your taxes! Donate your car,
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 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
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.
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
