CELEBRATING LANCASTER COUNTY'S PEOPLE, SCENERY,

HERITAGE, STYLE & POINT OF VIEW SINCE 1987.

The Lancaster Conservancy … Nature’s Helping Hand

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The shuttering effect from social distancing prompted by the coronavirus has led many of us to reconnect with nature. As a result, new faces now behold the beauty Mother Nature has bestowed upon Lancaster County. But, even before the country was thrust into a state of national emergency, a groundswell of interest in our environment had been gathering steam in Lancaster County. For one organization, the movement has been a half century in the making.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Lancaster Conservancy, the entity determined to provide our community with wild and forested lands and clean waterways … forever.

“We were founded by hunters, anglers and naturalists who wanted to make sure there was forested, natural lands here for the public to enjoy in perpetuity,” says Fritz Schroeder, senior vice president of community impact at the Conservancy.

The Conservancy’s mission follows three principles focusing on land, community and water. The goal is simple: purchase and protect land suitable for sustainability and recreation, engage with and educate the public, and clean our local waterways – for today’s use and for the benefit of future generations.

The goal is simple, but the effort is big.

Lancaster Conservancy by the numbers:

• 7,200+ acres protected
• 2,300 Conservancy members
• 540 volunteers steward the preserves
• 365 days a year preserves open
• 68 conservation easements
• 46 nature preserves
• 40+ miles of trails
• 27 municipalities with preserves
• $0 the cost to use preserves

(Protect) LAND

“The number-one guiding principle behind our organization is to protect as much of [Lancaster County’s] forested land as possible,” Schroeder says and further explains the Conservancy’s unique approach to purchase land outright to ensure its future protection. “We have a pretty unique model compared to land conservancies around the country. A lot of times, conservancies will just ease the land and it will remain privately held and not open to the public.”

The Conservancy manages 46 nature preserves and 69 conservation easements around the county, making up more than 7,000 acres. Once the land is protected, the Conservancy’s Stewardship Team undertakes a deliberate and time-consuming process of incorporating the new land into an overall management plan. The result is an investment in infrastructure (parking, signage and trails), which allows visitors to explore the preserves while protecting water quality and critical habitats for birds, insects and other wildlife.

Trout Run, with its off-the-beaten-path appeal and streambank access, is Schroeder’s favorite preserve. Located off Stump Road in New Providence, Trout Run offers 2.2 miles of multiple looping trails – ranging from moderate to difficult – as they wind through a heavily wooded ravine. There’s an old railroad tunnel at the north end and outcrops of schist bedrock protrude from the landscape. Another advantage to Trout Run is its connection to wildflower-rich Steinman Run, enabling visitors to access two sets of trails from one parking lot.

“There are many benefits to preserving natural land and I think now more than ever people are really starting to understand that,” he says.

(Engage) COMMUNITY

Helping people realize the importance of land preservation and foster appreciation is the second pillar in the Conservancy’s mission. The organization hopes to expand its natural holdings and create a flourishing environment. Interior forests support a special habitat teaming with birds, insects and other wildlife while fostering the growth of natural flora. By inviting the community to workshops, hikes and other events, the Conservancy spreads this knowledge and educates all ages.

“We’ve also been developing a robust volunteer program,” Schroeder says. “We host over 20 work days every year where volunteers come out and interact with our stewardship crew and actually help maintain our preserves.”

One of the culminating evenings of the Conservancy’s community outreach efforts is the Save Woods & Water party held at LUCA during the Extraordinary Give in November. The open-house-style event combines local libations (from the likes of St. Boniface Craft Brewing Co.) with food from one of the premier restaurants in Lancaster. “We combine community engagement with a little bit of fundraising and a lot of education,” Schroeder says.

(Clean) WATER

The Conservancy’s biggest events focus on Water Week, which is part awareness campaign and part community festival focused on clean streams and rivers. Normally held in June, this year it will take place August 7-15. 

Lancaster County is home to 1,400 miles of rivers and streams, half of which are impaired or polluted. This county is the largest polluter of nitrogen, phosphorus and sediment to the Susquehanna River, which in turn is the largest polluter to the Chesapeake Bay.

“It’s a problem we have caused and it’s a problem we can solve. With focused direct attention in the next 20 years, we could actually clean our streams and rivers,” Schroeder says, stressing the Conservancy is not the only entity focused on correcting these issues. “The Conservancy is just one partner amongst many who are addressing the issue of clean streams and rivers.”

During Water Week, a slew of organizations, businesses and individuals come together to host gatherings, seminars and other events. In 2019, Water Week attendees could do everything from attend a presentation at Millersville University about visionary ecologist Dr. Ruth Patrick, whose 1948 Conestoga Study was a breakthrough in freshwater science, to gather the family at a clean streams farm tour of Oregon Dairy, complete with a BBQ picnic dinner. There’s biking, hiking and running events, stream cleanups, First Friday activities, lectures and more. I signed my school-aged son up for snorkeling in the Conestoga River at Poole Forge! 

Going into Water Week’s fourth year, the success and participation by the public has exceeded the Conservancy’s expectations and Schroeder credits business partners who have stepped up to make monetary, physical and logistic contributions.

“MY” PRESERVE

The popularity of the Conservancy’s preserves exploded this spring. In a statement issued by President Phil Wenger on March 24, he noted, “An interesting thing has happened! Thousands of people descended on our preserves … escaping into the woods for the ‘Nature Rx’ we’ve been inviting them to take advantage of for years. Our small preserve parking lots were often overflowing. People were desperate to find something to take their minds off of the anxiety-inducing cascade of negative headlines.” The influx of visitors caused the indefinite closure of the parking areas and River Road access to Tucquan Glen and Pyfer nature preserves in the Southern End. 

The preserve I visit most often is the Welsh Mountain Nature Preserve. The easy to moderate trails (sometimes rocky) centered around a 2.4-mile loop offer wonderful walks in the woods for all fitness levels. There’s even a half-mile, fully forested universally accessible trail. A few connecting trails lead to the adjacent Money Rocks County Park.

“It’s one of our favorite preserves. We have a great relationship with the municipality and great neighbors. It’s a real success story for us as it is our single-largest preserve by acreage,” Schroeder says.

Along the trail visitors can spot wild azaleas and low-bush blueberries. The highlight of Welsh Mountain is the scenic overlook. From one of the highest points in the county, hikers who take the short but steep, white-blazed trail to the overlook can enjoy a wonderful view of East Earl and Carnarvon townships’ fertile fields. Access to the parking lot and trailhead is at 835 Gault Road, East Earl. Happy hiking!

For more information about the Lancaster Conservancy, visit lancasterconservancy.org. 

Working & Watching the News in the Coronavirus Era

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I hope you, your family and friends are in good health. Undoubtedly, the coronavirus and its fallout are presenting the most daunting challenges any of us have ever faced. But, like the other wars and catastrophes this country has dealt with, we will somehow overcome it – after all, it’s the American way. 

Despite dealing with the feeling of being frozen in time, the world moves forward. Fortunately, our parent company, Engle Printing & Publishing, has been able to remain in operation. Employees were given the option of working from home or coming to the office. I am one of a handful still in the office. As I explained to my sister, I am a freak of nature – I’ve never ordered anything from Amazon, I’ve never seen a Star Wars movie, I don’t drink coffee and I don’t have a computer or an internet connection at home. 

I’m fine with coming to the office. Social distancing-wise, there isn’t a person within 300 feet of me. I leave my house, drive to work, enter the building, stay put and do the reverse at the end of the day. 

With everyone else working from home, this issue of the magazine was planned, written, edited, proofread and designed via cyberspace and Zoom. Fortunately, because May is always our garden issue, the photography for the features was completed last summer. (It’s timely, because I have a feeling a lot of us will be summering in our backyards.) Jordan Bush also photographed his column last summer. Nick Gould photographed Cocina Mexicana a few hours before Governor Wolf issued his stay-at-home order.  

Despite a world in upheaval, human nature has managed to prevail. We Americans are a nosy bunch and the coronavirus could not quell that trait. Like millions of other viewers, I instantly became infatuated with the concept of television anchors and reporters delivering the news from their homes. Viewers have been privy to everything from home libraries, kitchens and man caves to guest rooms, offices and basements. Apparently, the location is determined by the area of the house where Wi-Fi reception is the strongest. 

The anchors/reporters are winging it and are in charge of everything from lighting and sound to doing their own hair/makeup, which explains why some appear to be in a dimly lit bar or broadcasting from the bottom of a tin can. Poor Judge Jeanine Pirro (Fox News) had crazy hair one Saturday night and social media lit up about her “drunk hair.” In all fairness, she blamed it on a sound wire that got caught in her hair and made a chunk of it stick out. She also took to social media to say she does not drink. 

Reporting from home started with the Today show’s Al Roker and Craig Melvin, who were homebound because of being exposed to a co-worker who was diagnosed with coronavirus. 

Melvin’s first appearance set social media atwitter because of the tropical wallpaper that served as his backdrop. Viewers either loved or hated it – there was no middle ground. Reporters from The Washington Post identified the pattern as being Palm Tree from Serena & Lily. It retails for $98 a roll. (I was compelled to check it out, so of course, now my Facebook feed is flooded with sponsored posts from the company.) The wallpaper caused such a hubbub that Melvin soon repositioned himself in his basement, where a Joanna Gaines-inspired shiplap wall provided a nondescript backdrop. 

Al Roker began delivering the weather report from his kitchen but then moved to what appears to be his dining room, where you get to see a wall covered in what looks like silk wallpaper. Depending on where he is seated, you can sometimes see into a sitting room that has a really beautiful fireplace. 

Over on ABC, Robin Roberts, who has battled her own health issues, has been anchoring Good Morning America from her basement, which she shared is her go-to place to watch televised sporting events. She appears to be seated at a desk with a credenza behind it that is always topped with a bouquet of flowers and family photos. In early April, she admitted part of the credenza is actually a “wine cooler” and could not believe viewers noticed that fact. 

Robin Roberts, ABC News

Roberts’ co-anchor, George Stephanopoulos, has also been working from home – his “set” is a replica of the Times Square studio. But, we did get to see a bedroom, too – his wife, Ali Wentworth, was quarantined there due to her coronavirus diagnosis and filmed an update on her condition from her comfy bed. Meanwhile, the show’s Lara Spencer has been doing cooking demos from her kitchen. 

CBS’s Gayle King’s backdrop is a wall of what appears to be black-and-white photos (undoubtedly, there are a few of Oprah and the Obamas), while her colleague, Anthony Mason, delivers the news in front of what appears to be a wall of very nice art. 

One night on CNN, Anderson Cooper treated viewers to a view of the library in his West Village home that features walls of bookcases, a leather wingback chair and a fab chandelier. It was very Ralph Lauren! 

Speaking of CNN, who knew that the Cuomo brothers – Anchor Chris and Governor Andy – would become the hit reality show of the coronavirus era. On Monday nights, viewers have had front-row seats to bantering that ranges from brotherly love to sibling rivalry. My radar went up on March 30, when Chris was suddenly anchoring his show from his basement, which prompted some jabs from his brother. 

The next morning, it was disclosed Chris had been diagnosed with the virus, which made for dramatic television that night. There was Chris – now quarantined to a very beige basement with a dimly lit staircase leading to seemingly nowhere looming in the background – ever at the ready at 9 p.m. “Even the dogs don’t come down here,” he lamented. Apparently CNN made some lighting changes – the following night, the basement (including the staircase) looked less ominous.  

Local anchors and newscasters have also been working from home. WGAL’s Kim Lemon appears to be anchoring from a home office. Behind her you can see books and family photos. There’s always a vase of flowers, too. 

Local meteorologists, including Tom Russell (and his cute dog) and Steve Knight (WHP), Dan Tomaso (ABC27) and Joe Calhoun (WGAL) have also been delivering their portions of the newscasts from their homes. On the first night Tomaso telecasted from his living room, his newsroom cohorts seemed amazed by his surroundings. “That’s your house?” one asked. “That is a beautiful room,” said another as she took in the champagne-hued surroundings. 

See, even members of the media are intrigued. 

In the Community

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These past few months have been trying for our community. Shutdowns and quarantines were enforced as COVID-19 spread across the globe and into our county. Despite the frightening reality that settled in, we stood together and tried to find positivity amidst the fear.

Reasons to Smile

Local Businesses:

“We are thankful that we are well and that we enjoy being in our house and walking about our property. Our Magnolia stellata is blooming its little heart out right now, its blossoms filling the air with its sweet perfume. Just smelling and looking at it lifts our spirits. If the coronavirus had to come to us, I am so glad that it came at this time of year. Our earth’s beauty is a powerful stress-reliever – and never more so than in the springtime.” – Vivian of Pheasant Run Farm Bed & Breakfast

“Honestly, our community is what’s keeping us smiling these days! Even though we had to close our physical studio space, our teachers have been sticking with us and their students, posting and recording virtual class offerings to keep our offerings going, no matter what! At first, we posted through Facebook Live and now we’ve started a West End Yoga Lancaster YouTube channel! We can’t pay the teachers this week, but they’re still generous enough to put up these classes for their students for free(!!). And we’re hearing from our students and community members that it is helping so much. It just feels like no matter what challenge we’re going through, we’re all sticking together and facing it together.” – Jonina at West End Yoga 

“I would say for the staff here at RCC, the things that have made us smile would be truly experiencing how much Lancaster City supports their local businesses and how so many people have gone out of their way to stop in and purchase gift cards or give us a shout out. Simply seeing how through such a stressful time, the people of Lancaster city have been so kind with their words to our staff of encouragement or going above and beyond leaving them tips way higher than necessary simply to help them financially. It has all but brought tears to my eyes (and a smile of course) to see how generous and kind the folks of Lancaster can be in times of difficulty.” – Rolled Cold Creamery

Facebook/Social Comments:

“Cleaning and purging and enjoying a fresh room!” – Dyan E.

“The ability to video chat with family and friends that I can’t visit in person right now!” – Kristin F.

“Sunshine”  – LCM Instagram follower (@beckmiri) 

“Went for a walk with our dog and 16-month-old this beautiful morning and saw 2 ducks!”
– LCM Instagram follower (@ajcb1515)

Local Businesses Doing Good: 

Through generous donations from local individuals, Speckled Hen Coffee was able to provide 50 meals and coffee to nurses and staff at Lancaster General Hospital, gift cards to families in the community, 7 meals to Timberline Church transitional housing for single moms, and over 60 meals distributed by The Factory Ministries – in just one week!

Oola Bowls added a “Donate a Bowl” option to their online ordering for essential workers like nurses, doctors, police officers and grocery store employees. So far, they have already made donations to the Emergency Department at Lancaster General Hospital and the Hospitalist Team at WellSpan Ephrata Community Hospital.

551 West offered “Carry Out with A Cause” where a portion of their sales went directly to nonprofits. They’ve made donations to Vision Corps, Meals on Wheels and Arch
Street Center.

Per Diem at Rock Lititz made care packages for their employees while they were closed.

Mail Order Mudbugs

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It’s probably safe to say we’ve all been cooking up a storm at home over the last few months. No doubt, you were missing your favorite restaurants that specialize in farm fresh, regional and international fare. And, with summer approaching, you’ve probably been thinking about your favorite vacation destinations and the restaurants you always frequent. Who knew what we would be facing when I drafted this copy last spring, only to revise it in mid-March to reflect the message: if you can’t travel to enjoy your favorite food, you have the option of having the food delivered to you.

Dreaming of food always takes me to Louisiana and the traditional crawfish boil. I don’t get back there as often as I’d like, and this spring holds little promise of traveling there anytime soon. Instead, I try to recreate the tastes of one of my favorite places on Earth at our home in Ephrata. 

If ever there’s a relaxing way to spend a springtime Saturday, it’s peeling crawfish shells for hours on end with friends (or, in the age of coronavirus, all by your lonesome). Corncobs, quartered potatoes, lemons, heads of garlic and an array of spices accompany crawfish (and perhaps sausage) in a large pot over a roaring propane flame. As I’ve discovered, preparing this time-honored Southern feast is possible even in the North.

Matt Jordan pours a 30-pound bag of live crawfish shipped from CajunCrawfish.com in Louisiana into a cooler. With the cooler drain open, crawfish can be picked over and easily rinsed without the risk of drowning them.

Yes, it’s an undeniable struggle to source crawfish comparable in quality to the local “mudbugs” of the Pelican State. Once you’ve had them, nothing else compares. 

Truth be told, crawfish, which are a staple throughout the Gulf Coast, have had a difficult time finding a dedicated following outside of that region. In unlikely attempts to scratch the itch, I’ve tried peeled and frozen crawfish that are often shipped frozen from overseas. Sourcing them locally is nearly impossible. 

Some of these little “mudbugs” were late-season monsters.

These frustrations were shared on one occasion with a New Orleans friend who moved north from the “504.” We got each other wound up recounting the joys of Crescent City cooking, the kind of heartache that can only be soothed with a home-cooked meal. Unable to compromise, we decided to hold a boil ourselves and began to research sources in Louisiana. When you can’t go to the food you want, bring the food to you.

Crawfish availability is seasonal – starting early in the calendar year, with peak season arriving between March and May. Tourists who visit outside of that timeframe are disappointed to learn they can’t order five pounds of fresh crawfish. 

Thick gloves are key for a pinch-free day.

What are crawfish? They are freshwater crustaceans that resemble small lobsters, hence their nicknames, freshwater and mountain lobsters. In Louisiana, they thrive in swamps, ditches, running streams and paddy fields. In this area of the country, we call them crayfish, while in the West, they are referred to as crawdads. In Louisiana, they are considered an agriculture product, yielding more than 120-million pounds a year. In April and May, they are the “soul” of community-based crawfish boils. (Picture a crab feast, only messier and more boisterous.) 

Unfortunately, coronavirus is affecting the industry. What appeared to be a banner season (because of plentiful rain and warm temperatures) has hit a major roadblock. By late March, New Orleans had become a coronavirus hot spot (the spread of the virus is being attributed to crowds on hand for Mardi Gras celebrations). Because restaurants were closed and offering only take-out, demand for crawfish fell. Coupled with that, the processing plants were seeing labor shortages. The only good news was that prices were declining. 

While a larger, 80-quart stockpot is ideal for cooking a single, large batch, we made do with a 20 quart and repeat boils.

Mail-Order Mudbugs

When I lived in Louisiana, in-season crawfish were served cooked for a few bucks a pound, much lower than the early season rates for smaller-sized mudbugs. As we discovered, shipping live crawfish comes at considerable cost. 

When placing a live crawfish order (peruse the Internet and you’ll discover dozens of companies offering such services), there are a few deceivingly appealing options for the price-discerning customer. Field-run crawfish are pulled directly out of traps and then tied off in sacks without cleaning or sorting. Covered in grass and mud, it saves the added time and expense of grading crawfish by size. Here’s the rub: field-run orders may include surprise bonuses in the sack which may slither, bite or pinch differently than what you’re paying for. 

Save yourself the trouble and order a washed and graded sack. If possible, have your order scheduled for delivery on the day of your boil. Overnight shipping is an essential expense and worth embracing in order to lower dead loss. Yes, it will increase the cost but more of the crawfish you bought will survive the trip.

In selecting the total amount of weight for your order, four to five pounds of crawfish per person is a healthy portion for those who love peeling. Similar to a lobster, crawfish meat is found primarily in the tail, so don’t underestimate the total weight. We ordered 30 pounds of crawfish from a company in Branch, Louisiana – for six people – which was plenty, knowing some folks would peel more than others. 

You’ll also need a large stockpot. According to TigerDroppings.com, a Louisiana State University sports fan forum with plenty of tangent discussions, an 80-quart stockpot is one of the most popular sizes for larger boils. Smaller stockpots with baskets can be put to work with smaller batches – simply add more seasoning between each round. 

Ensuring you have enough propane in the tank to get through the boil, a high-pressure burner is the last main component you’ll need.

The Boil

Upon delivery, give the crawfish a rinse in their shipping container, being sure to carefully punch holes for drainage at the bottom, as they will otherwise drown. Large coolers with open drains are essential for rinsing the opened sack of crawfish, for storing hot crawfish after the boil and for the cold beverages of your choice. 

Coolers are excellent in keeping crawfish hot for a slow day of peeling, eating and easy living.

Wash and prep whole potatoes, onions and corn. You’ll also need sliced lemons. My library of Junior League cookbooks from the South simply detailed adding salt, pepper and cayenne in the boil. Fortunately, our order of crawfish included a healthy supply of seasonings. Keep hot pads, a long stirring paddle or spoon and a clean cooler for cooked crawfish near the burner.

Of course, shrimp would be an alternative to crawfish. Frozen, fresh and peeled shrimp are less intimidating, readily available and less expensive. You’ll waive some of the core experience and the price is worth taking a second look considering the volume required, but they are a worthy substitute for the methods mentioned here.

The Peel

Serve the feast buffet-style or spread it out on a table atop clean newspapers. Taking in the excitement and all of your hard work, the spread is an uncommon sight for many. While approaching the feast laid out before us, one friend exclaimed, “This is like a summer Thanksgiving!”

A summer Thanksgiving: crawfish, sweet corn and potatoes, piled on newspaper (to absorb the water).

Shortly after everyone took their seats, anticipation turned to complete silence. The marathon meal got underway with a leap forward as everyone dug in. As hands turned orange to red with the savory spices of the boil, phones remained absent and out of sight. For a few hours, we ceased to look up lyrics to that song from 1991 or the actor from that movie as we were practically handcuffed to our feast. 

Thanks to the slow pace of peeling, the feeling of being stuffed never really sets in (again, similar to crab picking).

Libations

Kent Falls Brewing Co.’s (Connecticut) Partagé was on tap: a tart, fruity American farmhouse ale that was exceptionally light and reminiscent of a full-flavored lemonade. 

Crawfish for Brunch

Incredibly, we ended up with extra crawfish, which we peeled as a group and stored in the refrigerator. At this point, everyone was in the zone and many hands made for swift work. We discussed at length what we’d do with the leftovers: crawfish etouffee, gumbo … the possibilities were endless.  

Cooked and peeled crawfish tails sautéed in brown butter provide the makings for Crawfish Stuffed French Toast, with cream cheese, spices and a hot honey drizzle. Chickory coffee is a perfect accompaniment for this decadent brunch dish.

Unsure how it would be received, almost reluctantly I brought up the most memorable crawfish dish I’ve ever experienced. It’s one meal I’ve missed terribly and savored during a Sunday brunch at The Chimes in Baton Rouge: Stuffed Seafood French Toast. Words cannot convey how decadent it was. 

So, it was unanimously decided that Sunday brunch was the only way to go. The next morning, we sliced French bread loaves lengthwise, dipped the pieces in a batter of milk, eggs and sugar and fried them on a hot skillet. Crawfish were heated in browned butter with leftover seasoning and then mixed into chilled cream cheese to form the perfect consistency and temperature. Matt Jordan, who hosted the crawfish boil with his wife, Sarah, took it further, making a deliciously simple drizzle with honey, Crystal Hot Sauce and seasonings.

For More information, visit cajuncrawfish.com

Doing Good During COVID-19

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Chantelle Delaney, a teacher for the School District of Lancaster, is coordinating free meals for essential staff at Lancaster General Hospital. Her good deed started out as a Facebook post with a simple goal – to provide a pizza dinner for the hospital staff. Chantelle was overwhelmed with donations and was able to continue sending meals for days. Many local restaurants even matched donations or gave their food for free. According to Lancaster Online, Chantelle has collected well over $1,000 in donations in less than a week.  

 

So far, participating restaurants included Steel Peel Pizza, House of Pizza (Chestnut St), Panera Bread Fruitville Pike, Sprout of Rice and Noodles, Isaac’s Downtown, Max’s Eatery, Kirchner Beverage Distributor, Hammond Pretzels, Longhorn Steakhouse East Lancaster, Café East, Trio Restaurant, Caruso’s Silver Spring, and Jimmy John’s.  

 

 

Oola Bowls added a “Donate a Bowl” option to their online ordering. Customers can choose to pay it forward for essential healthcare workers. So far, Oola Bowls has already made donations to the Emergency Department at Lancaster General Hospital, the Hospitalist Team at WellSpan Ephrata Community Hospital and the Lancaster General Community Testing Site.

 

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OOLA NEEDS YOUR HELP: • We continue to be so thankful for the support we have received from our loyal customers during a hard time for us over the last few weeks. One of the most exciting and consistent question we have gotten is “Can I donate an Oola Bowl to someone else in Lancaster who could use one right now?” This is just such an incredible testimate to the people of this city but one we haven’t had an answer for and we are looking to you to help us! • HERE’S HOW TO HELP: We will be choosing groups of individuals to deliver bowls to based on YOUR nominations -Please comment below, send us a message, or send us an email to info@oolabowls.com with the following: 1-The group that you want bowls delivered to (think nurses, police officers, grocery store employees, etc.) 2-The number of bowls that would be needed 3-A contact person so we can safely coordinate the delivery • Those who want to help, can go onto our website (oolaorders.com) and choose “donate a bowl” with a specified amount • The bowls will be discounted to simply cover our costs on the ingredients, and once we have reached our goal for each group we will make them and deliver them. Once one group has been fed, we will move to the next group! We will keep you in the loop and set goals every day to get food to the selfless individuals who deserve it in this tough time! • Please help us by sharing this post or encouraging people you know to donate! 💜

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Bird-in-Hand Fabric and Mennonite Disaster Service partnered with sewing volunteers to make masks. If you’re in need of a mask or fabric to make your own, you can visit them at their drive-thru window at the fabric shop. Each visitor is welcome to take 5 masks at no cost, but donations to MDS are greatly appreciated. If you are in need of a large amount of masks, call and place your order at 717-823-0952.

Through generous donations from local individuals, Speckled Hen Coffee was able to provide 50 meals and coffee to nurses and staff at Lancaster General Hospital, gift cards to families in the community, seven meals to single moms in transitional housing at Timberline Church, and over 60 meals distributed by The Factory Ministries – all in just one week! 

 

551 West offers ‘Carryout With a Cause’ several days each week where a portion of their sales directly benefits local nonprofits and small businesses. They’ve already partnered with Vision Corps, Prima Theatre, Meals on Wheels of Lancaster, and Arch Street Center. Check their Instagram page for their latest fundraiser. In the coming weeks, they will be supporting police, firefighters and Lancaster General ER Staff.

 

 

Rebel Cause Lancaster is serving up free community meals. The organization is a group of Star Wars fans who are dedicated to uniting the fandom and doing good in the community, according to their Facebook page. Rebel Cause was quick to jump in and use their cooking skills to help the Lancaster community during this hard time. The organization is serving hot dinners Monday through Friday and providing bagged lunches over the weekend. All are welcome. Check their Facebook for daily menus and locations. 

 

A few Lancaster distilleries are using their equipment to create sanitation products. Thistle Finch Distillery is making disinfectant sprays for essential businesses in short supply. Lancaster Distilleries and Columbia Kettle Works are partnering to create as much hand sanitizer as they can to help meet the overwhelming demand. 

 

Per Diem may be closed for now, but they are still looking out for their employees with weekly care packages. 

 

Local tourism organization, LoKal Experiences, is coordinating volunteers and donations to create hand sewn masks to help reach the high demand. Their goal is to sew 5,000 masks a day for organizations across Lancaster County. They could still use donations, sewers and meals for their volunteers. See their post below for more information on how to get involved.

 

The Bake Shoppe at Country Table is celebrating healthcare workers with delicious whoopie pies. If you or someone you know is a healthcare worker, contact Country Table here to get on their list. For every $50 in gift cards sold, they will also donate a dozen whoopie pies to local healthcare workers.

 

Brent L. Miller is hosting an online auction to help relieve three local causes including the Boys and Girls Club of Lancaster, TFB Hospitality and Operation Emerald. The auction will be live from April 27th through May 6th. Items will continue to be added as they are donated. 100% of what you pay will be donated.

 

Do you know a business or individual who is doing good in our community? Let us know here.

Reasons to Smile

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Our news feeds are cluttered with scary headlines and statistics surrounding the coronavirus. It is all anyone can talk about.

It is certainly an overwhelming time to be alive. While there is so much to stress about, we want to know what is making you smile.

We asked, and here is what you said.

 

“We are thankful that we are well and that we enjoy being in our house and walking about our property. Our Magnolia stellata is blooming its little heart out right now, its blossoms filling the air with its sweet perfume. Just smelling and looking at it lifts our spirits. If the corona virus had to come to us, I am so glad that it came at this time of year. Our earth’s beauty is a powerful stress-reliever – and never more so than in the springtime.” -Vivian of Pheasant Run Farm Bed and Breakfast 

 

 “Going for a walk and playing games with my pals online.” – Jess C. 

 

“Cleaning and purging and enjoying a fresh room!” – Dyan E. 

 

“Went for a walk with our dog and 16 month old this beautiful morning and saw 2 ducks!” – LCM Instagram follower

 

“Honestly, our community is what’s keeping us smiling these days! Even though we had to close our physical studio space, our teachers have been sticking with us and their students, posting and recording virtual class offerings to keep our offerings going, no matter what! At first, we posted through Facebook Live and now we’ve started a West End Yoga Lancaster YouTube channel! We can’t pay the teachers this week, but they’re still generous enough to put up these classes for their students for free(!!). And we’re hearing from our students and community members that it is helping so much. It just feels like no matter what challenge we’re going through, we’re all sticking together and facing it together.” – Jonina at West End Yoga 

 

“Seeing my friends’ beautiful faces on Google Hangout.” – Evie F. 

 

Photo Courtesy of Melinda H.

Melinda H. got an idea from a Facebook group called Heart Hunters. People across the country are putting hearts in their windows or out in their yard to spread their love and support to their neighbors during this time of social distancing. “As I was driving around town to pick up pizza the other night, I didn’t see any hearts and I thought it would bring our community together even more if each of us did see the same project,” Melinda said. So, she filled her windows with hearts for her fellow Lancastrians to see.

 

“Sunshine” – LCM Instagram follower

 

“I would say for the staff here at RCC, the things that have made us smile would be truly experiencing how much Lancaster City supports their local businesses and how so many people have gone out of their way to stop in and purchase gift cards or give us a shout out. Simply seeing how through such a stressful time, the people of Lancaster city have been so kind with their words to our staff of encouragement or going above and beyond leaving them tips way higher than necessary simply to help them financially. It has all but brought tears to my eyes (and a smile of course) to see how generous and kind the folks of Lancaster can be in times of difficulty.” – Rolled Cold Creamery 

 

“The ability to video chat with family and friends that I can’t visit in person right now!” – Kristin F. 

 

“Sunsets!!!” – Julie R. 

 

“Pennsylvania’s Beauty” – Samantha B.

 

“The sun is shining on me” – Barb B.

 

“Being alive” – Linda G. 

 

“Family dinners, walks, bike rides and game nights!” – Kyra M.

 

“Watching my favorite movies again – mostly Dirty Dancing.” – Angelina L. 

 

What is your reason to smile? Email me and let me know!

Top 10 April To-Dos

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As of press time, the following events were scheduled to be held. We recommend that you call or check the websites to verify they will be taking place.

1April 18
The Grand Purple Gala

Drumore Estate

**This event has been postponed until August 15** Spring Into the Light is the theme of this annual event that raises awareness and strives to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease. The magical garden party is being held at one of the most beautiful estates in Lancaster County! The night will be filled with amazing food offered by multiple local food venues, as well as entertainment. Live and silent auction items will include sports memorabilia and getaways. There will also be a wine raffle. All proceeds will support the programs and research for the Alzheimer’s Association and stay local to Lancaster County. 331 Red Hill Road, Pequea. 4:30 p.m. Information: 717-587-2209 or facebook.com/thegrandpurplegala/. 

2April 10-12
Easter Bunny Train 

Strasburg Rail Road

**The Easter Bunny Train has been canceled** Welcome the Easter season with a train ride through beautiful farmland with the Easter Bunny as your conductor. Included in the purchase of your train ticket, enjoy an Easter Egg Hunt and other fun activities around the station. 301 Gap Road, Ronks. Trains depart hourly from the station starting at 11 a.m. Information: 866-725-9666 or strasburgrailroad.com.

3April 25
Race Against Racism

Musser Park

**This event is now a virtual race** YWCA Lancaster invites you to attend and/or participate in this benefit race, which is celebrating its 22nd anniversary. Lancaster’s race is the longest consecutive-running Race Against Racism event in the U.S., attracting more than 3,000 participants annually. Proceeds support the YWCA Lancaster’s Social Justice and Advocacy programs. Rain or shine event. 135 N Lime Street, Lancaster. The 5K will begin at 9 a.m. The Kids’ Fun Run, a dash for kids through age 12, will begin at approximately 10:30 a.m. Information: 717-393-1735 or ywcalancaster.org/raceagainstracism.

4April 11
Terre Hill Easter Egg Hunt

Terre Hill Park

**This event is postponed.** Have some Easter fun at Terre Hill’s Egg Hunt for children ages 10 and under. Kids ages 11 and over can participate in a Flashlight Egg Hunt at night. Eggs will be hidden throughout Terre Hill Park and contain candy and opportunities to win special prizes like gift baskets, food and other goodies. 210 Lancaster Avenue, Terre Hill. Easter Egg Hunt starts at 1 p.m. Flashlight Egg Hunt starts at 8 p.m. Information: 717-445-4581 or terrehilldays.com.

5April 4
Rails & Ales

Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania

**This event has been canceled** This beer festival, now in its 5th year, offers craft brews and food from over 20 breweries and vendors and is held among a world-class collection of historic trains. Must be 21 or older to attend. ID will be required for entry. 300 Gap Road, Strasburg. VIP Hour is from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. General admission begins at 7:30 p.m. Information: 717-687-8628 or railsandales.org.

6April 17
Kickin’ Up Kindness

Brick Gables

**This event has been canceled** Join Girls on the Run Lancaster for a special evening supporting the next generation of leaders. Enjoy dinner, a silent auction, live music and the opportunity to connect with local business leaders. All proceeds from the event will support girls’ participation in the organization’s programs. Dress code is “casual with a splash of pink.” 800 E. Newport Road, Lititz. 6:30-10 p.m. Information: 717-869-5655 or gotrlancaster.org/kindness.

7April 22-24
Earth Day 

Sahd Metal Recycling

Learn all about reducing, reusing and recycling this Earth Day. Take a yard tour to see all the big equipment in action, like cranes, trains and shears. With preregistration, enjoy a free hot dog dinner on Friday night at the antique and collectible open house. Vendors will be on location to demonstrate how they reduce, reuse and recycle. Preregister and download the safety waiver for faster check in. 1045 Lancaster Avenue, Columbia. Tours starting at 10 a.m. each day. Rain or shine event. Information: 717-684-8506 or 2020earthdaysahd.eventbrite.com.

8April 9-25
Lancaster Best Kept Secrets Tour

Various Locations

**This tour has been moved to May** Explore every corner of Lancaster County on your own timeline and discover handmade crafts, unusual gifts, artisan wares housed in restored barns, historic buildings, greenhouses, farmers markets and art galleries. The tour features 40 stops, coupons from each business and the chance to win over $1,000 in prizes. Information: 717-721-9409 or bestkeptsecretstour.com/lancaster-county.

9April 18
Spring Benefit Auction

Landis Valley Museum

**This event has been canceled** This annual fundraiser offers the opportunity to buy handcrafted, heirloom-quality items made right at Landis Valley Museum, including art, crafts, and collector-quality items. The auction will benefit the museum’s efforts to preserve local German immigrant history, as well as education and farm-related services provided to the community. 2451 Kissel Hill Road, Lancaster. 4:30-6:30 p.m. Information: 717-569-9312 or landisvalleymuseum.org.

10April 18
PA Family Travel Fair

Calvary Church Campus

**This event has been canceled** We live in a beautiful state full of natural wonders, rich history and family fun attractions. Explore all the destinations and attractions that Pennsylvania has to offer at the PA Family Travel Fair. Enjoy tons of giveaways, activities, food trucks and shows for the kids. 1051 Landis Valley Road, Lancaster. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Information: 717-492-2544 or pafamilytravel.com.

Visit Conestoga

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Because of the coronavirus situation, we suggest that you check with restaurants and stores on their status beforehand.

 

Now that you’ve put Tudbink’s on your shopping agenda for spring, why not plan to spend the day in one of the most beautiful areas of the county? Some suggestions …

Conestoga Area Historical Society

51 Kendig Road

Hours: Saturday and Sunday, 1-4 p.m.; Opening date TBA

Details: Pennmanorhistory.org.

If you are a history buff, you’ll love the Conestoga Area Historical Society. The grounds feature several furnished buildings, a barn filled with artifacts, gardens and a gift shop. Founded in 1990, the CAHS’s mission is to preserve and share the history of the Penn Manor area, including Conestoga, Manor, Martic and Pequea townships, as well as Millersville borough. The season kicks off in April  and continues through mid-December. Several special events will dot the calendar.

Gather Home Boutique & Furniture

29 Kendig Road

Hours: Wednesday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. (open til 7 p.m. on Friday)

Details: Facebook.com/gatherhomeboutique

A treasure trove of unique signage, furniture, clothing, home décor, garden art and more, with the work of local artists and makers well represented.

Conestoga Wagon Restaurant

2961 Main Street

Hours: Monday-Saturday, 6 a.m.-8 p.m.

Details: Theconestogawagon.com 

Known for its home cooking, the Conestoga Wagon’s menu ranges from filling breakfast fare to wraps, sandwiches, soup, salads, subs, pasta and entrees. Where else can you get roasted turkey and filling year round? While specials are offered daily, Wednesdays are extra special – the chicken pot pie (all you can eat) is legendary!

Enola Low-Grade Rail Trail

Access: Parking is available at the end of Colemanville Church Road

Hours: Dawn-Dusk

Details: Conestogatwp.com

In Conestoga Township, the trail stretches from just below the Safe Harbor Dam, south into Martic Township. This portion of the trail is perfect for walking (dogs must be leashed) or bike riding. There is also a scenic overlook at the dam and trestle bridge that spans the Conestoga River; the bridge is being restored in order to connect the trail to its northern end.

Uncharted Lancaster

Title: Safe Harbor Adventure

Access: Park at 5365 River Road

Details: Unchartedlancaster.com

Part adventure, part history lesson, this trek will introduce you to 19th-century Safe Harbor. The relatively easy 1.25 mile hike will reveal the remnants of a long-gone village, a building that was home to an Odd Fellows Hall (1871-99), the site of the Safe Harbor Independent School, the former site of St. Mary’s Immaculate Conception Catholic Church (1853-83) and a graveyard that is the final resting spot of Civil War veterans and Italian immigrants who helped to build the Enola Low-Grade Railway.

Shenk’s Ferry Wildflower Preserve

Address: Green Hill Road in Conestoga

Details: Lancasterconservancy.org  

Maintained by the Lancaster Conservancy, this 92-acre preserve boasts one of the largest concentrations of wildflowers on the East Coast. (April is prime time to view the blooms.) Wildlife, including more than 50 bird species, is also evident. An easy-to-walk trail follows almost two miles along Grubb Run. A secondary trail connects to the Enola Low-Grade Rail Trail. Ranger-led walks will be held April 4, 5, 18 and 19. Registration is required; visit the website for details.

Pine View Dairy

2225 New Danville Pike

Hours: Monday-Saturday, 8 a.m.-9 p.m.

Details: Pineviewdairy.com

If you’re craving a sweet treat, Pine View Dairy is the place to go. Made on the farm since 1971, Pine View’s homemade ice cream is available in 25 flavors. The specialty cones only add to the fun. Sundaes, shakes, banana splits, moo mixers and the delicious chocolate chip (cookie) sandwich are also on the menu.

Sunshine and Shadows

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Now that spring has arrived, it’s time to renew and revamp our gardens from the ground up. What follows are some suggestions for small-scaled groundcovers that are ideal for edging woodland paths or softening the edges of shady patios.

Sweet Woodruff, Galium odoratum

Sweet woodruff, Galium odoratum

Culture: This seldom-used low groundcover is easily grown in average, medium-to-wet, well-drained soils. It prefers part to full shade. It spreads by both creeping roots and self-seeding. Under favorable conditions it will naturalize. It will go dormant by mid-summer if grown in dry or sunny locations.

Sweet Woodruff, Galium odoratum

Appearance: The leaves are medium-green in color and whorled on the stems. Small, fragrant, 4-petaled white flowers appear in loose cymes in spring.  

Attributes: Plants emit a strong odor of freshly mown hay when the foliage is crushed or cut. Traditionally used in potpourris, the leaves are also used to flavor jellies, teas and cold fruit drinks. Sweet woodruff will grow under a black walnut tree and deer do not browse. 

Black Mondo Grass, Ophiopogon planiscapus ‘Nigrescens’

Black Mondo Grass, Ophiopogon planiscapus ‘Nigrescens’

Culture: This grass-like plant is suitable for shade to full shade. It will do fine in a sunny location if provided even moisture. It grows 6- to 8-inches tall and spreads very slowly. 

Appearance: Small, off-white flowers appear in summer and are followed by dark-purple, glossy, pea-sized berries. 

Attributes: Ophiopogon makes an unusual choice for edgings or in rock gardens. (The cultivar is often listed as ‘Arabicus’, ‘Black Dragon’ or ‘Ebony Knight’.) This might be the blackest foliage of any perennial. Combine it with chartreuse-colored foliage for high drama!

European Wild Ginger, Asarum europaeum.

European wild ginger, Asarum europaeum.  

Culture: This low-growing and creeping woodland groundcover is for the connoisseur. It is surprising that very few home gardeners have it since it thrives in part- to full-shade areas with rich, well-drained woodland soil. The reason could be that it’s pricey and spreads very slowly. I’ve read that ants carry the seeds hither and yon and through the years I’ve noticed it popping up remote from the original planting. The root has a mild ginger aroma but the plant has nothing to do with cooking ginger.

Appearance: The superb leaves of the 4-inch-tall plant are glossy, leathery, heart- to kidney-shaped and a rich dark-green in color.  The purplish-brown, jug-like flowers are usually not observed because they bloom at ground level and are covered by the dense foliage. 

Attributes: While the plants sometimes remain evergreen in mild winters, they usually go dormant and emerge later in spring more robust than the year before.

Sweet Box, Sarcococca hookeriana var. humilis

Sweet box, Sarcococca hookeriana var. humilis 

Culture: Another slow-spreading connoisseur’s plant that will tolerate heavy shade. Taller and also costly because of its slow growth, you will likely have to check at several nurseries until you find this seldom-used groundcover. But, to quote a favorite garden writer, Allen Lacy: “Obtaining what is impossible to obtain is one of the most powerful desires in a gardener’s psyche.” 

Appearance: Sarcococca is in the same family as boxwood but doesn’t look anything like it. The lance-shaped, leathery, shiny dark-green leaves (3-1/2-inches long and 3/4- inch wide) are evergreen on stems that are a foot or more tall. In late winter, the barely noticeable flowers appear at the base of the leaves. Berry-like black fruits follow. 

Attributes: Their fragrance will fill the air and mystify passers-by who won’t easily figure out where the enchanting scent is coming from because the flowers are mostly obscured by the foliage. 

Bunchberry, Cornus canadensis

Bunchberry, Cornus canadensis

Culture: Dogwood trees are growing throughout Lancaster County, both the native, Cornus florida, and the much healthier and ornamental Kousa dogwood, Cornus kousa. But seldom seen is the native groundcover-sized bunchberry, which thrives in sun-dappled conditions and close to full shade. Avoid dry soils. 

Appearance: This dwarf species of dogwood produces the same-shaped leaves and flowers as are found on our native tree except in smaller size. Later, the flowers give way to terminal clusters of berry-like drupes, which ripen in August to bright red and remain on the plant until late fall unless consumed by birds. They are edible for humans. 

Attributes: The foliage of bunchberry does not suffer from anthracnose, which disfigures our native tree. 

Leadwort, Ceratostigma plumbaginoides.

Leadwort, Ceratostigma plumbaginoides.

Culture: Another underappreciated and underutilized 6- to 10-inch groundcover that will do well in any average, well-drained soil in part shade. Commonly called “plumbago,” it will take full morning sun but should have afternoon shade in our area. It spreads underground to form expanding mats of shiny, medium-green foliage.  

Appearance: Later in summer and sporadically until frost, gentian-blue (also sometimes described as “electric blue”), phlox-like flowers appear. But the display isn’t finished! The leaves turn bronze-red in autumn. A perennial that displays fall foliage color! 

Attributes: Great for underplanting shrubs or as an edger. Unless you keep in mind that it emerges late in the spring, you’ll think you lost it. For that reason, I like to interplant it with spring bulbs – like crocus and daffodils – because as their foliage is withering, the leadwort is coming up. It is durable, long-lived and free of diseases and pests.

Fairy Bells, Disporum sessile ‘Variegatum’

Fairy Bells, Disporum sessile ‘Variegatum’

Culture: Variegated plants always add a bit of sparkle and contrast in the border, especially in part to full shade. Disporum insists on these conditions. 

Appearance: The common name, fairy bells, relates to the tubular, bell-shaped, greenish-white flowers that appear in clusters on upright arching stems in April. The leaves are medium-green in color and attractively streaked and edged with white. “Sessile” refers to the leaves that are stalkless. Flowers give way to black berries that ripen in late summer. 

Attributes: Fairy bells will spread agreeably to form a colorful, variegated groundcover in the shadiest areas of your garden.

Creeping Mazus, Mazus reptans. Bigstock photo.

Creeping Mazus, Mazus reptans 

Culture: Creeping Mazus is a very low-growing groundcover – under 2-inches tall. It spreads via creeping stems that root as they go. It is easily grown in average soil in full sun to part shade. 

Appearance: The small, bright-green leaves form a dense, attractive carpet of foliage, which remains green throughout the growing season and well into the fall. Tiny, purplish-blue, tubular, 2-lipped flowers with yellow and white markings appear in small clusters in late spring to early summer.  

Attributes: Since it tolerates foot traffic and mowing, Creeping Mazus is perfect to fill-in spaces between stepping stones.

Jollification! Celebrating the 90th Birthday of Bob Groff

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Ten years ago, his 80th birthday party was cancelled – buried in Snowmageddon’s 20+ inches of snow. When Bob Groff hit the 90-year milestone this year, his family made certain that the redux would be a grand celebration of his many friendships gathered along the way. Fortunately, there wasn’t a flake of snow in sight!

“Joyful” is an often-used adjective to describe Bob Groff. That may seem a bit contrary when one considers his profession as a third-generation mortician, leading Groff Funeral & Cremation Services for four decades before retiring in 2000. Yet, it may be the ever-present reminder of life’s brevity that has prompted Bob’s appreciation for cultivating a life full of profound relationships and rich with curiosity, learning and meaning.

It was only natural, then, that Bob’s 90th birthday celebration, which was held at the Lancaster Country Club, was epitomized by a room filled with 163 friends and family and a shared sense of joy among them that was as effervescent as the bubbles in the champagne.

“I wanted to make up for the past failure of the 2010 cancelled party for all the people I meant to entertain at that point in my life,” Bob says with a laugh.

It was worth waiting for.

Illustrator and artist, Mike Abel, created a bow-tie-inspired invitation for the party.

His encore party was billed as a “Jollification,” a term for festivity and merriment first used in the 19th century.

As emcee and Bob’s best friend Wally Otto good-naturedly reminded the crowd, “You’re lucky you made the cut; you are one of Bob’s 200 closest friends.” Lucky, indeed, as guests were treated to classical music performances by the New York Philharmonic’s violist, Peter Kenote, and William Wright, musical director at Lancaster’s St. James Episcopal Church. A seated multi-course dinner was peppered with eloquent anecdotes that revealed some of the deepest friendships, community contributions and family guidance that Bob has sculpted during his nine decades on the earth.

Bob was surrounded by family for his milestone birthday celebration. Seated left to right: Sandy Groff, Linda Groff (Bob’s wife), Bob Groff, Fred Groff and Lisa Groff. Standing are Tim Watt, Laura Watt and David Groff.

Tom Ryan, the president and CEO of LancasterHistory, credited Bob with refocusing his organization’s mission to include “fun” in every aspect of its work. “Because of Bob’s requirement that his experience of serving on our volunteer board be fun, he changed my perspective,” said Tom. “We now include the importance of having fun in our planning and initiatives for our members, donors, volunteers and staff.”

Bob’s desire for the personal touch was fulfilled by his greeting every guest individually during the cocktail hour.

Tim Watt joined the blended Groff family as a five-year-old, when Bob married his mother, the late Ellen Arnold Groff, who was a dynamic patron of Lancaster’s arts for many years. In a passionate tribute, Tim thanked his stepfather for teaching him “how to say ‘yes’ to life.”

Since many of Bob’s most rewarding moments in his daily life are spent in one-to-one conversations and very small discussion groups, it was important to his family that each table of eight was a carefully selected mix of guests that could foster meaningful relationships. Planning the seating of his guests was one of Bob’s most enjoyable tasks. “The reward for our family was hearing that he enjoyed his party, even though hosting a large crowd is not his daily cup of tea,” said his son, David Groff.

Bob dressed for the occasion, wearing a celebratory bow tie and a rose on his jacket’s lapel.

Ninety, according to Bob, is a fabulous age. He is using his next decade to focus on being fully present and realizing how much fun it is. “At 90, you don’t have too many reflections about the past, and you’re not worried about the future, so you can focus on the now,” he says. “I plan to make this decade especially interesting,” he promises.

In addition to working out for more than an hour three times a week –
treadmill, anaerobic training and stretching – Bob also participates in a philosophical discussion group and schedules numerous breakfasts and lunches with friends to strengthen his relationships with them.

The dessert course included gold candles, which were simultaneously lighted to symbolize the spark Bob added to the lives of his guests.

“Every one of you is very special to me and has played different roles in my life over the years,” he said to his guests. “I have three thoughts to share: thank you for coming, thank you for being my friend, and I intend to increase and deepen our friendship over the coming years.”

Bob’s emcee followed up with a challenge to every guest: “Don’t rest on your laurels,” said Wally. “Be careful so you make the cut for the next decade’s party.”

Bob’s son, David, and good friend, Wally Otto, who served as the party’s emcees, kept the fun flowing.

Along with a trio of desserts, guests received gold candles, which were to be simultaneously lighted. The small flames illuminated the room, a glowing symbol of the spark that Bob added to each of the lives present.

“It was like a kaleidoscope,” Bob says when describing his party. “You get a different design from every guest’s perspective. And, it was that bright and colorful.”

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