Good morning, Lancaster County.

The sun's coming out today with highs in the mid-50s - a great reminder that spring in Lancaster County is worth getting out and enjoying. This edition has a big economic win for the county, a week full of live music, and a few fun ways to get outside before the weekend.

In today's Lancaster Local:

  • GSK secures $9 million state grant to advance its $800 million Lancaster County pharmaceutical expansion

  • The Lancaster Symphony Orchestra brings the Beatles to life with a one-night symphonic concert Tuesday

  • Motown royalty The Temptations and The Four Tops hit the American Music Theatre stage Thursday

  • Trap shoots, a vineyard book club, and a birding night round out your week's local calendar

Community News

GSK Lands $9M State Grant for Lancaster County Vaccine Facility

GSK’s pharmaceutical campus near Marietta just received a major boost. The Shapiro administration awarded the British drugmaker a $9 million state redevelopment grant to help fund construction of a $72 million drug-substance facility at 325 N. Bridge St. in East Donegal Township.

The new facility will manufacture a vaccine targeting pneumonia and meningitis and is expected to create 54 new jobs at a campus that already employs 353 people.

It’s only one piece of GSK’s much larger commitment to Lancaster County. The centerpiece of the company’s broader $800 million local investment is a 300,000-square-foot drug product facility expected to open in 2029, adding another 140 to 150 jobs.

Lancaster County’s manufacturing future continues to look strong.

EVENTS

🎵 Lancaster Symphony Orchestra: Revolution - The Music of the Beatles - Lancaster County Convention Center - 25 S. Queen Street, Lancaster, PA 17603. Tuesday, April 7 at 7:00 PM. The Lancaster Symphony Orchestra reimagines the Fab Four's greatest songs with the full power of a live orchestra - a one-night-only concert that's perfect for music lovers of any age. Tickets are available now and this one won't last. Get tickets →

🎤 The Temptations & The Four Tops - American Music Theatre - 2425 Lincoln Highway East, Lancaster, PA 17602. Thursday, April 9 at 7:30 PM. Two of Motown's all-time legendary groups share one stage for a night of classic hits - from "My Girl" to "I Can't Help Myself" - at Lancaster's premier concert venue. Check availability soon; shows like this sell fast. Get tickets →

🎯 Southern Lancaster County Farmer-Sportsmen's Trap Shoot - SLCFSA Club Grounds - 742 Hollow Road, New Providence, PA 17560. Every Tuesday, 2:00–7:00 PM. At just $5 per 25-shot round, this weekly public trap shoot is one of the best deals in Lancaster County for outdoor fun. Eye and ear protection required - and if you're feeling ambitious, indoor archery runs from 6–9 PM at the same location. More info →

📚 Thorn Hill Vineyard's Book Club - Thorn Hill Vineyards Lancaster Tasting Room - 1945 Fruitville Pike, Lancaster, PA 17601. Wednesday, April 8, 6:00–7:30 PM. No wine club membership needed - this public book club is open to everyone, and you're encouraged to bring a friend. Good conversation, great local wine, and a relaxed evening in a welcoming setting. More info →

🎯 Columbia Fish & Game Public Trap Shoot - Columbia Fish and Game Club - 4339 Fairview Road, Columbia, PA 17512. Every Wednesday, 6:00–8:00 PM. Another weekly public trap shoot, another $5-per-round deal - this one on the west side of the county in Columbia. Whether you're a regular shooter or looking to try something new outdoors, this is a welcoming spot to do it. More info →

🐦 Lancaster County Bird Club Monthly Meeting - Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area Visitor Center - 100 Museum Road, Stevens, PA 17578. Thursday, April 9, 7:00–8:30 PM. Bird Safe Harrisburg chair Zach Richard presents "2025: A Year in Review," covering the organization's work protecting birds in urban environments. All are welcome - it's a wonderful evening of community and learning for anyone who loves birds or the outdoors. More info →

WEATHER

Monday, April 6 - Mostly sunny skies today with a high near 56 and a westerly breeze gusting up to 23 mph - not a bad day to get outside between commitments. Tonight cools down to around 36, so keep a layer handy if you've got evening plans.

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