Local caterer Theresa Ortwein acquired a recently closed Mediterranean restaurant space to transform it into Cafe Haj Paj, marking the biggest expansion in her company’s eight-year history.
Davis Shaver
Davis Shaver is the publisher of LebTown. He grew up in Lebanon and currently lives outside of Hershey, PA.
Posted inHistory
When did abolitionist Frederick Douglass make a speech in Lebanon, PA?
The famed abolitionist Frederick Douglass drew an overflow crowd to Lebanon County’s courthouse in 1867, where he spoke for two hours in a visit arranged by local businessman D.M. Karmany.
Posted inNews
Lebanon cafe owner joins mayoral race, pledges community-first approach
Lebanon cafe owner Damian Vargas, 32, has joined the Republican primary race for mayor, challenging incumbent Sherry Capello and photographer Scott Church.
Posted inHistory
Strasburg Rail Road’s restored Cherry Hill station once stood sentinel in Lebanon
A century-old railroad watchman’s box from Lebanon found new life at Strasburg Rail Road, where it has stood since 1960 as the Cherry Hill station welcoming tourists with its whimsical “population 17, more or less” sign.
Posted inNews
Scott Church to run for Lebanon mayor
Lebanon photographer Scott Church announced his bid for mayor during a radio interview, setting up a Republican primary challenge against four-term incumbent Sherry Capello.
Posted inCrime & Safety
West Virginia shooting leaves 2 dead, 2 injured, all with ties to Lebanon County
Family members of former Cornwall Borough councilman Steve Tribioli were victims in a Saturday, Dec. 28, shooting that took place in Calhoun County, WV.
Posted inBusiness & Nonprofits
With Steinman Foundation backing, Central Pennsylvania selected as one of 20 first Press Forward local chapters
Press Forward, the national movement to strengthen communities by reinvigorating local news, announced Tuesday that Central Pennsylvania would be among the first 20 Press Forward local chapters across the country.
Posted inLebTown Announcements
LebTown to host bilingual journalism event at city library on coverage of election and Hispanic community
On Wednesday, Oct. 16, LebTown will host its latest community listening event at the Lebanon Community Library (125 North 7th St., Lebanon).
Posted inHistory
‘Die Gluft’ chronicles stories of the Lebanon Valley’s PA German heritage
Former state Rep. Peter Zug revives father’s oral history project, publishing “Die Gluft” to preserve local stories from western Berks and eastern Lebanon counties.
Posted inNews
Thousands without power after turkey vulture apparently lands on breaker
Lebanon County’s power outage saga continues for a third week, with a turkey vulture and squirrel causing a circuit breaker malfunction at Met-Ed’s North Lebanon Substation, affecting approximately 4,700 customers.
Posted inCrime & Safety
Suspect in Wednesday night assault at Downtown Lounge flees from police
Lebanon City Police are seeking the public’s help in locating a 27-year-old Lebanon man, Ricardo Berrios-Hernandez, over his role in an assault at the Downtown Lounge on Wednesday evening, June 12.
Posted inNews
Poison hemlock: A growing threat calls for increased public awareness
The population of poison hemlock, a lethal plant easily mistaken for wild carrots, has been steadily increasing in the Lebanon Valley, leading to calls for greater public education and control measures.
Posted inPeople & Places
Unraveling age-old mysteries of Swatara Creek: A journey into geologic time
Geological research suggests that the Swatara Creek, a tributary of the ancient Susquehanna River, could predate the dinosaurs and has played a significant role in the region’s geological and human history.
Posted inNews
North Cornwall Twp. sees lion’s share of county growth, according to census data
Despite a county-wide slowdown in population growth, North Cornwall Township saw a 10.86% increase in residents from 2020 to 2023, the largest change in Lebanon County, according to U.S. Census Bureau data.
Posted inEducation
Susquehannock Fly Fishers: More than a fishing club, it’s a community builder
For over 15 years, the Susquehannock Fly Fishers have organized fishing events for IU-13 students, fostering skills and creating cherished memories with the help of club volunteers.
