Good morning Lancaster!
Has your snow melted yet? I think mine is about 60% of the way there. As we’re climbing into the 40’s and 50’s, it should melt pretty quickly now :)
When I first moved to Lancaster in 2013, one of the things that caught my eye was how well the community took care of those in need.
We live in a time where everyone needs a little more compassion, and sometimes we all need a helping hand.
Today I’m covering an opportunity to help others in need, and one to get help if you need it.
But there’s fun things happening around the county too. Here’s what I think is worth your time today.
Lititz Warwick Community Chest Food Drive Is Running Through The 22nd
One of the most meaningful parts of this community is how consistently it shows up for its neighbors.
Now through February 22, a nonperishable food drive is being organized to benefit the Lititz Warwick Community Chest, supporting neighbors right here in our community who are facing food insecurity.
While the holidays tend to draw the most attention to food pantries, the reality is that the need continues all year long.
Winter can be especially difficult for families balancing heating costs, groceries, and everyday expenses. This drive aims to help fill that gap.
What’s Being Collected?
Residents are encouraged to donate nonperishable food items — canned goods, boxed meals, pasta, rice, peanut butter, cereal, and other shelf-stable essentials.
Monetary donations are also welcome.
The goal is simple: stock local shelves so that no family in Lititz and Warwick Township has to wonder where their next meal is coming from.
The drive is being organized by Wendy Gockley, REALTOR® of Homesale Realty, who describes herself as “a heart for our community.” In partnership with the Lititz Warwick Community Chest, she is coordinating donations and helping make pickup convenient for residents who want to contribute.
Click here to learn more about the Lititz Warwick Community Chest.
Bourbon Styles: A Guided Tasting at The Log Cabin In Leola
The Log Cabin Restaurant in Leola is a place locals go to for both dinner and the atmosphere.
Tucked into the woods off Lehoy Forest Drive in Leola, the historic 1920s cabin feels made for winter evenings - low lighting, warm wood beams, stone fireplaces, and the kind of quiet that makes you want to settle in.
This Wednesday at 6 pm, The Log Cabin is hosting “Bourbon Styles: A Guided Tasting,” an intimate event exploring the range and character of American bourbon.
It’s a structured, guided bourbon experience led by bourbon expert Kirstan Thomas, who brings more than a decade of experience in the spirits world.
Guests will sample four distinct bourbon styles, each selected to highlight how dramatically flavor can vary depending on proof, aging, and grain bill. The lineup includes:
Cask strength
Smoked
Delicate
Rye-forward
The Log Cabin’s hand-selected Knob Creek will also be featured - a nod to the restaurant’s commitment to curated, thoughtful selections rather than generic pours.
To complement the tasting, Chef Steven Painter has prepared a series of small plates designed specifically to match each bourbon’s flavor profile.
Think pairing, not snacking.
Each dish is built to elevate what’s in your glass rather than compete with it - a detail that separates a true tasting event from a casual night out.
All Ages Line Dance With DJ Ray at the Ephrata Legion
This Sunday at 5:30 p.m, the Ephrata American Legion is hosting an All Ages Line Dance with DJ Ray.
It’s going to be a fun night of music, dancing lessons, and getting to know your neighbors.
The event is led by DJ Ray Glick, a familiar name in local dance circles, who specializes in providing music and dancing entertainment that keeps the floor moving.
Doors open at 5 p.m.
Line dance lessons begin at 5:30 p.m.
Open dancing runs from 6 to 9:30 p.m.
Whether you’ve never stepped into a line dance before or you already know your way around a boot-scootin’ shuffle, the format makes it approachable. Lessons first. Then the fun begins.
When: Sunday at 5:30 p.m. (Doors at 5)
Where: 300 Cocalico Street, Ephrata
Cost: Free (12 & under), $5 (12–17), $10 (18+)
The kitchen and bar will be open throughout the evening.
If you’ve been telling yourself you need to move more this winter - or just need an excuse to get out and see people - this might be your moment.
Bergstrasse Community Closet Is Giving Away FREE Clothing, Shoes & More In Ephrata
This Saturday from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m., the Bergstrasse Community Closet is opening its doors in Ephrata and welcoming anyone who needs a little extra help.
Everything is free.
Just walk in and shop.
The closet offers clothing and shoes for the whole family, along with a wide range of practical essentials including coats and jackets, scrubs, maternity clothing, backpacks, purses, bras, socks, hats, gloves, scarves, baby accessories, toys, and even books for children.
It’s designed to meet real, everyday needs - especially during the colder months when coats and warm layers aren’t optional.
The event takes place at Bergstrasse Lutheran Church, located at 9 Hahnstown Road in Ephrata. Parking is available in the lower lot beside the Yoga Place.
Organizers note that while monetary donations are accepted, they are never expected.
The heart behind the event is simple: make sure no one in the community goes without.
That’s todays updates,
Andrew From Lancaster Local