Seventy-seven cars and motorcycles, 30 antique tractors and eight tasty pigs made for a memorable day at Salem EC Church this Saturday, Sept. 19, at the 7th annual Pig Roast and Car Show.
Almost 800 people bought meals and additional visitors visited attractions on the church grounds, located off Old Route 22 in Lenhartsville.
“It’s a community outreach event,” said Otto Shick, chair, “and it is our annual fundraiser, too. It was a beautiful day and we had an enthusiastic crowd.”
Dozens of volunteers were crucial. Some prepped the church facility, others cooked the pork or gathered donations. And, of course, many volunteers took shifts on Saturday.
Gladys Adam led the car-show volunteers, registering vehicles and overseeing door prizes, donated by Kuhnsville Car Wash, Allentown. Haldeman Ford of Kutztown was another sponsor.
“We had gorgeous weather and a great turnout,” Adam said. “We had a nice variety of cars and wonderful activities along with delicious food. Everyone enjoyed their day.”
Guests were asked to vote for favorites and winners received plaques at the close of the show: for cars, first place Tim Reid, second place Carl Volker and third place John Henning; for motorcycles, first place Frank Grate, second place Carl Hess and third place Jeff Henning; for tractors, first place Ben Sonon, second place Tyler Phillips and third place Kevin Hartman.
Stand-out tractors included a 1917 Peerless steam tractor and a rare Gee Whiz tractor. Owners of hit-and-miss engines set up a display, grinding corn and working an old laundry machine. Some visitors entered a hay-bale toss; winners included Josh Krick, Matt Logan, Ethan Long and Brandon (last name unavailable).
Other outdoor activities included a “Touch the Truck” exhibit from Dwayne Miller Trucking. Youngsters could visit a bounce house, sponsored by Manmiller Electric, or head inside to the “Pig Pen,” for crafts and free prize drawings.
The gym also highlighted ongoing church ministries like Centershot, the Outdoors Group and MOPS. Visitors could “Guess the Weight of the Ham,” sponsored by Leidy’s Pork Products, or bid on almost 80 silent auction items.
“People enjoyed seeing what items companies provided to support the church and many took part in the bidding,” Tonia Krick, who ran the auction with her husband, Tommy, said. “[Bidders] were anxious to keep an eye on their items of interest throughout the day. This makes it such a fun and interactive event!”
Keystone Miller Bloodmobile was on site, with over 20 people donating blood and/or plasma. There also was a prayer table, staffed by multiple church members. Visitors could fill out request cards or receive personal prayers and encouragement.
The scent of roasted pork drew visitors to the back of the facility where hearty meals were served.
“This event makes for a very long day,” said Beverly Ruppert, who headed up 20 kitchen volunteers, but “the atmosphere is one of joy and laughing because of this church family. They love God so much and it shows in their smiles.”
“My favorite saying is: feed their bellies and the next step is to feed their soul,” Ruppert added. “We reach out to the community in the hopes that they not only come for a delicious meal but also see the love of God pouring out on them.”
Pastor David Long confirmed the day was a great celebration of Salem and the community.
“It’s a great opportunity to connect with our neighbors and to let them know what we’re all about at Salem,” he said. “We want them to see the church as a place where they belong.”
For details about Salem EC Church, call 610-562-5033 or visit www.FB.com/WeAreSalem.
