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Taking care of your Loved One Is What We Do BEST!

It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.

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Home Care In Columbia, PA

Home Care Columbia, PA

They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.

Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.

Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Columbia, PA is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

 In-Home Care Columbia, PA

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The Always Best Care Difference

Since 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.

Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.

The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.

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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider They're reliable, they're prompted, and their caregivers are very efficient and always do what you ask them to do. The assignment of the caregiver: they really try to match them to the person's personality.”

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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider It is a very excellent company. I didn't know about this agency until I reached out for help. They have done everything that they could. They came to my home and helped me sign up since I couldn't leave my husband.”

David T.
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“I am a current client of this provider Well, they are convenient and are very understanding; anytime I've asked about anything, I always get responses. My health has never been any more organized in a long time.”

Christine F.
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“I am a past client of this provider I liked everyone they sent. They were all very kind and knowledgeable. It greatly reduced my stress because I knew he was in good hands.”

William D.
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“I am a current client of this provider If someone needed the help, I would definitely recommend them. I have a muscle condition and need the help.”

Nicholas V.
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“I am a current client of this provider I like that the aide we have been given is just perfect for our needs. They have helped the most because the hours they give us are from one person, not a variety of people; it's one person you get to know well.”

Elmer A.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a past client of this provider I liked that they were prompt and courteous. I liked that it made it easier for me to go to work and know that she was taken care of safely. I did not have to worry about her.”

Josephine P.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider They have good/quality service. I've been caring for him for the past year, and with their help, it frees up my time.”

William R.
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“I am a current client of this provider The scheduling woman has worked so well with us. They get him up and out and moving about.”

Elwood C.
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“I am a current client of this provider I like that they are prompt. I have great respect for the way they handle business. I am very pleased. They keep things clean. They don't mind staying a little late or coming in a little early. They are always nice and ask if there is anything else they can do for me.”

Sterling D.
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“I am a current client of this provider I like that they are very accommodating to the schedule. The providers have all been gracious and nice. The quality of care has been good.”

Alfred C.
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“I am a current client of this provider I like that the way the woman works with me. She comes and gets things done and does what she needs to do. The provider has helped me the most by lifting my spirits.”

Kenneth B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider They're very contentious and kind. They keep me in good communication. If somebody has to be out, and they're not available, they get a substitute for me. The services allow me respite so I can get away from the house without worrying about his care and his needs being met.”

William R.
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“I am a current client of this provider The care was very genuine. I have very caring caregivers.”

Ronald M.
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“I am a current client of this provider I like that the agency has always taken care of me. The services helped me very much.”

Joseph H.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider I like that they are really kind, and their communication, openness, and flexibility are great. They keep him on track with his daily routine and hygiene.”

Gale B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider I like that they have caregivers that I can rely on. They have been extremely nice and they address my questions.”

Hilary W.
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“I am a current client of this provider I have a lady in the morning that takes care of quite well. She knows what to do. She helps me get around.”

Gary M.
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“I am a current client of this provider They provide care. They respond. They care and work with me.”

Joseph M.
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“I am a current client of this provider The provider has helped me most by just being present in the home. Something I like about the agency is the quality of care they allow my father to receive.”

David D.
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“I am a past client of this provider They gave me good care. They fulfilled my needs. They did a good job of caring for me.”

Barry S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider They help me with things I can't do, like clean the bathroom. I like the caregiver and her personality.”

Guy A.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I have had the honor to work with John and his team. They are some of the most kind hearted and loving people I have met. Truly professional and really care for people. Highly recommend them!!”

Antonio L.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider The agency has made my experience positive by doing the house cleaning. I like that the caregiver the agency sent me is prompt.”

Jack G.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider They help me get things done. They do what I ask them to.”

James C.

What is Non-Medical Senior Care in Columbia, PA?

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Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.

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When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.

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The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.

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At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.

 Senior Care Columbia, PA

Types of Elderly Care in Columbia, PA

To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:

Personal Care

Personal Care Services

If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.

Common personal care services include assistance with:

  • Eating
  • Mobility Issues
  • Incontinence
  • Bathing
  • Dressing
  • Grooming

Respite Care Columbia, PA
Home Helper

Home Helper Services

Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.

Common home helper care services include assistance with:

  • Medication Reminders
  • Meal Preparation
  • Pet Care
  • Prescription Refills
  • Morning Wake-Up
  • Walking
  • Reading
 Caregivers Columbia, PA
Companionship Services

Companionship Services

Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors.

Common companionship services include:

  • Grocery Shopping
  • Transportation to Appointments
  • Nutritional Assistance
  • Conversation
  • Planning Outings
  • Completing Errands
  • Transportation to Community
  • Events and Social Outings
Home Care Columbia, PA
Respite Care

Respite Care Services

According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.

At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.

If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.

 In-Home Care Columbia, PA

Benefits of Home Care in Columbia, PA

Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:

Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.

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Aging in Place: The Preferred Choice for Most Seniors

While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.

In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.

Here are just a few of the reasons why older men and women prefer to age at home:

How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?

A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.

With the help of elderly care in Columbia, PA, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.

Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.

Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.

For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.

More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.

In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.

With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.

 Elderly Care Columbia, PA

Affordable Care

In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.

Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.

At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.

In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:

If your loved one qualifies, Medicaid may help reduce in-home care costs. Review your PA's Medicaid program laws and benefits, and make sure your senior's financial and medical needs meet Medicaid eligibility requirements.
Attendance and aid benefits through military service can cover a portion of the costs associated with in-home care for veterans and their spouses.
Many senior care services like in-home care are included in long-term care insurance options. Research different long-term care solutions to find a plan that provides coverage for senior care.
Home care can be included as part of a senior's private insurance plan. Read over your loved one's insurance policy carefully or speak with their insurance provider to determine if in-home care is covered.
Depending on the life insurance plan, you may be able to apply your policy toward long-term care. You may be able to use long-term-care coverage to help pay for in-home elderly care.
 Senior Care Columbia, PA

Compassionate Care. Trusted Caregivers.

When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.

Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.

At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Columbia, PA understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.

Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.

Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.

Assisted Living Referral Services

While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.

Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.


Respite Care Columbia, PA

At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.

Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:

  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Recreational Activities
  • Social Outings
  • Emergency Medical Response
  • Medication Monitoring
  • Family Visitation
  • Personal Care
 Caregivers Columbia, PA

At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.

Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.

Home Care Columbia, PA

For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.

 In-Home Care Columbia, PA

Taking the First Step with Always Best Care

The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:

A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way

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A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive

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Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider

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Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.

If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.

At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Columbia, PA 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.

When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.

 Elderly Care Columbia, PA

Latest News in Columbia, PA

Raw beef stored above raw fish, and other Lancaster County restaurant inspections for Sept. 21-27

The state inspected the following food establishments in Lancaster County. To find more restaurant safety information, view full inspection reports, and sign up for real-time text or email alerts for specific restaurants or locations, visit Spotlight PA’s Restaurant Safety Tracker.The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture produces retail food inspection reports for 61 of Pennsylvania's 67 counties using the FDA Model Food Code. Inspections are conducted regularly throughout the state, and results are posted as inspections are c...

The state inspected the following food establishments in Lancaster County. To find more restaurant safety information, view full inspection reports, and sign up for real-time text or email alerts for specific restaurants or locations, visit Spotlight PA’s Restaurant Safety Tracker.

The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture produces retail food inspection reports for 61 of Pennsylvania's 67 counties using the FDA Model Food Code. Inspections are conducted regularly throughout the state, and results are posted as inspections are conducted. As noted by the Department of Agriculture, inspections are a “snapshot” of a particular day. Many violations are relatively minor and are fixed at the time of inspection.

Facilities with violations:

Burger King #88331298 Millersville Pike, Lancaster, PA 17603Sept. 23, 2026

1 low priority violation

Casa Huerta (Tfs 3) @ Ephrata Fair9 W. Main St., Ephrata, PA 17522Sept. 22, 2026

2 high priority violations

Columbia Family Restaurant at Prospect3985 Columbia Ave., Columbia, PA 17512Sept. 24, 2026

1 high priority, 2 moderate priority, 2 low priority violations

Grocery Outlet2108 Spring Valley Rd., Lancaster, PA 17601Sept. 22, 2026

1 other violation

Harvest Lancaster1573 Fruitville Pike, Lancaster, PA 17601Sept. 25, 2026

3 high priority, 5 moderate priority, 9 low priority violations

Hong Kong Garden1807 Columbia Ave., Lancaster, PA 17603Sept. 23, 2026

1 high priority, 3 low priority violations

Little Greek House Tfs 3 @ Ephrata FairEphrata Fair, Ephrata, PA 17522Sept. 22, 2026

1 high priority, 1 low priority, 2 other violations

Mcdonald's # 76411788 Columbia Ave., Columbia, PA 17512Sept. 21, 2026

1 moderate priority violation

Rajun Cajun (Tfs 3) @ Ephrata Fair122 Main St., Ephrata, PA 17522Sept. 23, 2026

1 high priority, 1 low priority violations

Rothsville Mini Market2102 Main St., Lititz, PA 17543Sept. 24, 2026

1 moderate priority violation

Shady Maple Smorgasbord129 Toddy Dr., East Earl, PA 17519Sept. 23, 2026

1 high priority violation

Subway1625 S. Market, Elizabethtown, PA 17022Sept. 25, 2026

3 low priority violations

The Pancake Farm Restaurant608 Richmond Dr. Ste 109, Lancaster, PA 17601Sept. 21, 2026

1 high priority, 1 moderate priority, 2 low priority violations

Turkey Hill Minit Market #2644 Hahnstown Rd., Ephrata, PA 17522Sept. 24, 2026

1 moderate priority violation

Two Cousins Pizza112 Townsedge Dr., Quarryville, PA 17566Sept. 22, 2026

1 moderate priority, 2 low priority, 1 other violations

Willow Street Restaurant2601 Willow St. Pike, Willow St., PA 17584Sept. 23, 2026

1 moderate priority, 3 low priority violations

Facilities with no violations:

This post was automatically generated with data from the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture’s database of Food Safety Inspections for Retail Facilities. We have also labeled violations as high, moderate, or low priority. These categories align directly with priority levels identified in the FDA Food Code: Priority, Priority Foundation, and Core.

Priority items contribute directly to the elimination, prevention, or reduction to an acceptable level of hazards associated with foodborne illness or injury, such as handwashing, food handling, and temperature control, or other direct food contamination threats, such as rodents or pests. We noted violations of priority items as high priority.

Priority foundation items support, facilitate, or enable control of risk factors that contribute to foodborne illness or injury, such as personnel training, labeling, and record-keeping. We noted violations of priority foundation items as moderate priority.

Core items usually relate to standard operating procedures, facility structures, equipment design, or general maintenance. We noted violations of core items as low priority.

To read the full inspection reports, you can visit: pafoodsafety.pa.gov/web/inspection/publicinspectionsearch.aspx

Southern Columbia Wins Easily, 46-6, Against Central Columbia

Tigers take care of businessSouthern Columbia entered Friday night’s Homecoming game with the expectations that come with being the defending PIAA champions. Through the journey of a regular season, teams need to take each opponent as if they are the defending Super Bowl Champion like the Seattle Seahawks, or any team before, and not allow for a letdown. The Tigers left their turf in Tiger Stadium looking every bit like a team capable of making another run.Southern scored three touchdowns throu...

Tigers take care of business

Southern Columbia entered Friday night’s Homecoming game with the expectations that come with being the defending PIAA champions. Through the journey of a regular season, teams need to take each opponent as if they are the defending Super Bowl Champion like the Seattle Seahawks, or any team before, and not allow for a letdown. The Tigers left their turf in Tiger Stadium looking every bit like a team capable of making another run.

Southern scored three touchdowns through the air and three on the ground during a dominant first half, building a 40-0 advantage and cruised to a 46-6 victory over Central Columbia.

The win kept the Tigers unbeaten at 5-0 while extending their winning streak over the Blue Jays to 31 consecutive games, including playoff meetings. Central’s last victory over Southern came in 1996.

“I thought we played well in the first half. The offense was clicking on all cylinders, and our defense didn’t give up any big plays,” Southern coach Jim Roth said. “Our defense has made great strides throughout the year. There were those question marks that anyone would have with having to replace a bulk of kids after graduating.”

The Tigers nearly produced 500 yards of total offense, finishing with 497 yards compared to Central’s 139.

“We were focused coming into the game, and I think it showed with the way we played,” said SCA defensive end Chase Williams who blocked a punt to set up the first TD for the host.

The running game accounted for 414 of those yards, with junior Grady Garcia providing the biggest fireworks.

Garcia carried just five times but turned those opportunities into 183 yards and three touchdowns. His scoring runs covered 62, 53 and 61 yards.

The final two touchdowns were especially impressive, as Garcia cut back against the flow of the plays and weaved through Central defenders on his way to the end zone.

“You go out and try to make a play,” Garcia said. “I trust my linemen that they are going to block no matter what until the play is over. I just try my best to do what I can to try and score.”

Garcia credited Southern’s offensive line for continuing to block even when he changed direction.

“When I get out there, I have a lot of trust in my line. Even when I’m cutting back, they are continuously blocking for like 10 or more seconds on some of those plays,” Garcia said.

While Garcia was producing big plays on the ground, senior quarterback Ayden Hockenbroch was nearly perfect through the air.

Earlier Friday, Hockenbroch was crowned Southern’s Homecoming King. Later in the day as September is drawing to an end, he completed five of six passes for 83 yards and three touchdowns.

“We are having a lot of fun playing a game that we love,” Hockenbroch said.

His first touchdown came less than two minutes into the game when he found senior tight end Jace Malakoski for a 13-yard score.

The touchdown was significant beyond putting the Tigers on the scoreboard.

It was the 12th career touchdown reception for Malakoski, giving him the school record for touchdown catches by a tight end. The previous record had stood since 2001. Sean Connaghan was the leader in that mark for more than two decades.

“When you play for Southern Columbia, you need to be able to produce. The expectations are high at our school, so the effort you give is the most important thing,” Malakoski said.

Hockenbroch completed touchdown passes to senior wide receiver Blaise Kissinger twice as well, connecting with him on plays of 26 and 19 yards.

Kissinger finished with those scoring plays to the end zone and also intercepted a pass on defense.

“Ayden puts it right in the breadbasket basically every time, and I have so much time to get open,” Kissinger said. “Our line protects him, so I feel like I have like 10 minutes to get open. It makes it easy for me.”

The three seniors — Hockenbroch, Malakoski and Kissinger — have developed into a productive group for an offense that has traditionally been known for its running game.

Roth said Southern wanted to establish that balance early against an opponent that was the underdog by a significant number, if there was a betting line, entering the midway point of the 2026 regular season.

“We thought that the score might get out of hand since Central is a young team that is trying to build for the future, so I wanted to get our passing game involved early on,” Roth said. “I have said it before, it’s important to have balance on offense and we have gotten that so far this year.”

The Tigers’ defense was equally impressive.

Central managed only two first downs during the first half, and Southern’s starters watched the entire second half from the sideline.

Senior defensive tackle Ty Ruckle said the Tigers approached the game with the same mentality they have used throughout the season.

“We just came out tonight ready to play. The goal was to get out of the game early and get the younger guys a lot of action,” Ruckle said. “We have to come out with the mentality that every game is like our Super Bowl. We don’t take any team lightly regardless of their record.”

The defensive performance is particularly noteworthy considering the number of graduates Southern lost from last year’s record 15th PIAA championship team.

Senior linebacker Nolan Wittig is the lone returning starter in Southern’s linebacker group, but he has seen the new defensive players continue to settle into their roles.

“I feel like our defense up front played very hard in the trenches. That allowed our linebackers and secondary to fly around. I think everybody is getting into the flow of things now,” Wittig said. “It’s going to make it better for us in these upcoming hard games.”

Southern’s starters were finished for the night after halftime, and neither team scored during the third quarter.

Jacoby Karlovich added a fourth-quarter touchdown for the Tigers before Central’s Easton Gonder scored late to account for the final margin.

For Central coach Ky Seesholtz, the game provided another opportunity for his young team to experience what it takes to compete against a program with Southern’s sustained success.

“It’s an honor and a privilege to get the opportunity to play against Southern Columbia. They have been doing it for years. They have had the most success of any program in the state,” Seesholtz said. “I have two guys on my staff in Josh Marks and Steve Toczylousky that played for Southern and I have learned a lot from those guys on what it takes to become a program like Southern. They have that prominence of being the pinnacle and we are trying to get there.”

Seesholtz also pointed toward the Blue Jays’ next opportunity, a rivalry game against Bloomsburg.

“It’s a big game, and I have lived it from my days of playing for Central Columbia. It’s your rival which alone from that aspect provides the energy,” Seesholtz said. “Coach (Mike) Kogut is going to have his kids ready to go. Right now, we are focused on that. The goal is to play a clean game.”

For Southern, however, the attention now shifts to its biggest rivalry.

The Tigers will travel to the Silver Bowl next week to meet unbeaten Mount Carmel Area in a matchup that will feature two 5-0 teams.

“This one is going to feel more like it has a few years back,” Roth said. “There hasn’t been as much of a buildup the past few years because we weren’t both undefeated when we played.”

Garcia knows what awaits the Tigers.

“This is a huge week coming up. Mount Carmel is obviously a really good team, and we have to be ready to play,” he said.

Southern has taken care of business through the first five weeks.

Now, the intensity is about to increase.

NOTE: Before reading the box score, a special recognition is well deserved. Southern Columbia student Noah Hockenbroch has taken the feature photo of each Southern Columbia story for the past few seasons. The talented and inspired young man has been beneficial in capturing the latest part of the Tigers’ success on the gridiron.

Southern Columbia 46, Central Columbia 6

CC — SC

First Downs: 7 — 19

Rushes-yds: 39-131 — 28-414

Passing yds: 8 — 83

Total yds: 139 — 497

Passing (C-A-I): 2-6-1 — 5-6-0

Penalties: 2-10 — 3-15

Fumbles-lost: 1-0 — 0-0

Central Col. (0-5): 0-0-0-6 — 6

Southern Col. (5-0): 20-20-0-6 — 46

1st Quarter

S– Jace Malakoski 13 pass from Ayden Hockenbroch (Lincoln Billig kick), 10:10.

S– Blaise Kissinger 26 pass from Hockenbroch (attempt failed), 6:54.

S– Grady Garcia 62 run (Billig kick), 3:39.

2nd Quarter

S–Garcia 53 run (kick missed), 10:14.

S–Kissinger 19 pass from Hockenbroch (Billig kick), 5:44.

S– Grady Garcia 61 run (Billig kick), 3:27.

3rd Quarter

None.

4th Quarter

S– Jacoby Karlovich 7 run (no attempt), 10:33.

C– Easton Gonder 2 run (kick blocked), 5:24.

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

RUSHING — Southern: Grady Garcia 5-183, 3 TDs; Joey Williams 4-81; Kane Cecco 2-51; Jacoby Karlovich 5-34, TD; Gavin Brown 6-22; Will Wojtowicz 2-14; Gavin Trometter 2-11; Orion Wojtowicz 1-10; Ryan Davis 1-8. Central: Logan Robbins 4-37; Owen Zanoline 11-34; Blake Edgar 9-33; Dominic Keller 8-26; Easton Gonder 3-8, TD; Ahmad Hemphill 1-7; Robert Kressler 2-(-6); Team 1-(-8).

PASSING — Southern: Ayden Hockenbroch 5-6-0, 83 yds, 3 TDs. Central: Robert Kressler 2-6-1, 8 yds.

RECEIVING —Southern: Blaise Kissinger 2-45, 2 TDs; Jace Malakoski 3-38, TD. Central: Owen Zanoline 2-8.

Columbia Borough Council hears residents’ concerns over data center regulations

COLUMBIA, Pa. —The Columbia Borough Council in Lancaster County held a meeting Tuesday night to discuss proposed regulations for data centers, drawing significant community input and concerns about data centers' potential impact.The meeting, which lasted from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., covered about half of the ordinance, with council members planning another meeting to continue hearing public input. Approximately 40 to 50 residents attended to share their thoughts."What protections do you have? I g...

COLUMBIA, Pa. —

The Columbia Borough Council in Lancaster County held a meeting Tuesday night to discuss proposed regulations for data centers, drawing significant community input and concerns about data centers' potential impact.

The meeting, which lasted from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., covered about half of the ordinance, with council members planning another meeting to continue hearing public input. Approximately 40 to 50 residents attended to share their thoughts.

"What protections do you have? I guess I'm saying for all of you to protect us," one attendee said.

The council is working on rules for data centers in light industrial and industrial zones. Earlier this year, Columbia passed a zoning ordinance barring data centers from light business zones, but that ordinance still requires county approval. The new regulations aim to address issues such as where data centers can be located, their size, and their impact on the community and environment.

Hearst OwnedWGAL

Taylor Enterline, a Columbia resident and member of Lancaster Stands Up, said, "We really need, like, strict regulations in place, to protect ourselves from data centers. We know that in Pennsylvania, you legally can't, like, stop a data center. But we can make it really hard. And also put really strict regulations in place that protect us and our community, our environment, our animals, and our pockets."

Enterline and other residents expressed concerns about the size, noise levels, power usage, heat output, and environmental impact of data centers.

Council members reiterated that they cannot ban data centers entirely, as exclusionary zoning is prohibited. "We can't just say no data centers are allowed in Columbia," they said, explaining that at least one location must be available for potential development.

Hearst OwnedWGAL

Despite this limitation, council members assured residents that they are listening to their concerns and will use the proposed rules to address them as much as possible.

When asked about the next meeting, council members said they have not yet set a date but hope to schedule it soon to avoid delays in implementing data center regulations.

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Columbia Borough dealing with the aftermath of heavy storm damage throughout the town

COLUMBIA, Pa. (WHTM) — Meteorologists are surveying the scene in Columbia, where a Thursday storm brought down buildings, trees and power lines, resulting in Lancaster County commissioners issuing a disaster declaration.Mayor Leo Lutz previously declared a state of emergency, which lifted at noon on Friday. The National Weather Service confirmed that a tornado was present during in the storm across the river in York County and will be examining Columbia in the coming days to make an official determination there as well.A ...

COLUMBIA, Pa. (WHTM) — Meteorologists are surveying the scene in Columbia, where a Thursday storm brought down buildings, trees and power lines, resulting in Lancaster County commissioners issuing a disaster declaration.

Mayor Leo Lutz previously declared a state of emergency, which lifted at noon on Friday. The National Weather Service confirmed that a tornado was present during in the storm across the river in York County and will be examining Columbia in the coming days to make an official determination there as well.

A section of Fourth Street is closed to traffic. The brick wall of a historic firehouse came crashing down during the violent storm on top of a ceramic business next door, though no one was hurt in the collapse.

Condemned signs now hang on both.

“I spent a lot of years in that firehouse,” resident Tom Arndt said. “Very historic. It’s just a shame that (it) happened. Freak of nature, I guess.”

He’s just grateful no one was hurt.

“The roar came, then it was a whiteout,” Arndt said. “It was raining so hard. It’s a miracle, absolutely a miracle.”

Driving into Columbia, all seems peaceful, but once in the borough, everywhere you turn, there are roads closed, utility and maintenance crews working to repair damaged homes, businesses and power lines.

Resident Fred Wickenheiser was home when the storm came through. He said his family lost the back and kitchen roofs of their home, and their garage sustained major damage as well.

When the storm came, he and his family went outside to see just how badly the property was hit.

“I watched my front windows vibrate, and you couldn’t see (through) the rain,” Wickenheiser said. “We heard one bang, and that’s when the chimney went down on the back of the house.”

Another longtime Columbia resident, Pete Weimer, could hardly believe his eyes. He doesn’t remember a storm like this one.

“It seemed like it just sort of ripped through the alley here,” Weimer said. “Nothing like this (before), maybe back when they had floods. It’s been a long time.”

But residents are confident this venerable river town that’s celebrating its 300th anniversary this summer will come back stronger than ever.

“Everybody’s all right,” Wickenheiser said. “We’ll live. Columbia is going to rebound. We’re a tough town.”

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