Tomato lovers and everyone in the family will enjoy a visit to the Washington Boro Tomato Festival, to be held on Saturdays, July 9 and 16, at Washington Boro Community Park, 2010 River Road, Washington Boro. Food service will start at 3 p.m. each Saturday, with games and music running from 5 to 9 p.m. There is no admission fee.

Tomatoes will be the theme for the event, and organizers state that Washington Boro has long been known for growing some of the best tomatoes in the country. "Most people say it's the soil; it's a sandy-type soil that grows good tomatoes," said Richard Schock, who is committee co-chair along with Bob Howell and Carl Miller. "Most people grow stake tomatoes. Jet Star seems to be the most popular variety around here."

Tomatoes will be on sale, and visitors can enjoy tomato sandwiches along with many other food choices. Menu items will include chicken corn soup, sausage sandwiches, hot dogs, hamburgers, hamburger barbecue, french fries, funnel cakes, soft-serve ice cream and beverages.

Attendees will have an opportunity to win prizes, including a big-screen television and 10 cash prizes.

On July 9, music will be provided by BorderLine, which plays a variety of new and old country music, classic rock and oldies. The Hammer Creek Bluegrass Band will be featured on July 16. Attendees should bring lawn chairs or blankets for seating.

The Tomato Festival began under the Washington Boro Lions Club. When that organization dissolved, the Washington Boro Fire Company took over the event.

It has continued as the event sponsor even through the merging of area fire companies into what is now Blue Rock Fire Rescue. "This is the only major fundraiser that we have," Schock said. "It helps buy firefighters gear or anything that would benefit them."

In addition to Schock, Carl Miller and Howell, the organizing committee is composed of Brenda Miller, Dan and Doris Ditzer and Kathy Frey.

Volunteers are still needed to help with running booths and kitchen work. Anyone interested in volunteering may contact Schock at 717-951-6411 and leave a message.

Washington Boro Community Park is located at the corner of Route 999 and River Road. Outdoor activities may be curtailed in the event of severe weather. Food will be available rain or shine.

This is a family-friendly event, and no alcohol is permitted in the park.