June is often seen as a time for new beginnings — the start of summer vacation for students, June brides, the opening of amusement parks, community pools, summer concerts and the promise of a slower pace.

It is in the spirit of new beginnings that I embark on my new role as a columnist for Western Salisbury, taking the reins from the capable hands of Rebecca Foehrkolb who has kept you informed over the last 12 years.

Faithful readers of the Salisbury Press know I am not new to this publication as I have been covering the Salisbury Township School District School Board meetings and Salisbury Township Recreation Advisory committee meetings as well as photographing events since 2021.

After a 30-year career as an educator, I value my role as a reporter to use the power of the written word to accurately inform readers about their local community.

Here’s to new beginnings.

June 12 marks the last day of school for students of the Salisbury Township School District. It is my experience that teachers as well as students feel the same amount of joy on that long awaited day. Have a relaxing, safe and fun filled summer – you’ve earned it!

If you are looking for something to keep the kids busy and engaged, the Wildlands Conservancy may be the answer. Despite the recent bridge collapse at the Dorothy Rider Pool Wildlands Sanctuary, summer camps will continue as modified plans have recently been put in place and there are several camps still open for registration. For more information about registration and the new drop-off/pick-up procedures check the website at wildlandspa.org.

Salisbury Township’s Summer Playground Program will run June 18 through July 25. The program will be held 9 a.m. to noon Monday through Friday, with additional evening hours 6:30-8 p.m. Wednesdays. Locations include Lindberg, Devonshire, Frank McCullough Sr. (formerly Green Acres) and Laubach parks. This program is for elementary-aged children of Salisbury Township residents, who have completed kindergarten through age 12. Please note: Registration is now exclusively online and must be completed by a parent/legal guardian before the child’s first day of camp. To register, visit salisburylehighpa.gov. Click on “Register for Summer Park Program” under Quick Links.

Jerusalem Western Salisbury Church will hold a Christmas in July Craft and Vendor Fair 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. July 26 sponsored by the Ladies Aid Society. Enjoy local crafts/vendors and a bake sale.

Calling all baseball fans for a fun night of IronPigs baseball, fireworks and $1 hotdogs! Salisbury Night at the IronPigs will be held July 1. Tickets must be ordered by June 20 using the registration form on the Salisbury Township website. Tickets include a concession credit. For more information, contact Lisa Casey at 484-661-5814 or lcasey@salisburylehighpa.gov.

Continuing with the theme of “new beginnings” summer is also a time for repaving projects throughout the township. Is your street on the repaving list? Find out all you need to know at www.salisburylehighpa.gov for a complete list of projects slated for the coming months.

Yard waste drop-offs are open. The Devonshire site will be open June 12 and 14 and the Franko site will be open June 16, 19 and 21. Hours of operation are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays and Thursdays and 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays.

“Whatever you do, always give 100%. Unless you’re giving blood.” Bill Murray