When the Goodwill Fire Company No. 1 merged with three other Manor Township fire companies to become Blue Rock Fire Rescue (BRFR) in 2011, the Blue Rock Support Group (BRSG) was created. As an auxiliary to the new entity, BRSG coordinates Blue Rock apparel for BRFR members, hosts annual banquets, and contributes to the purchases of new apparatus. It also hosts the annual Washington Boro Tomato Festival.

Last year's event morphed into a food truck festival due to COVID-19 restrictions, but this year's Tomato Festival will return to its true form when it is held on Saturdays, July 10 and 17, from 3 to 9 p.m. The rain-or-shine event will take place at the Washington Boro Community Park, 2010 River Road. Stands will begin serving food at 3 p.m., two hours before the carnival games and live music will kick off.

For the first time, Barnett's Farm Market and Greenhouse will supply the tomatoes. Folks traditionally queue up for tomato sandwiches and, in recent years, BLTs. In 2017, the BRSG sold 3,000 bacon, lettuce, and tomato sandwiches during the two days of the festival. In addition to tomato sandwiches, there will be hamburgers, hot dogs, barbecue, soft-serve ice cream, corn soup, fruit, candy, and more.

On July 10, the bands Border Line and Relics will perform songs from many genres, and two bluegrass bands, Hammer Creek and Barley & Steele, will perform on July 17. There will be opportunities to enter a drawing for a Vizio 50-inch LED smart television, a Samsung Chromebook laptop, a Fitbit, or $100 cash prizes.

"I'm looking forward to people coming out to enjoy the big community event and the food," said BRSG member Richard Schock.

Proceeds from the festival will benefit BRFR. Additional help is needed to make the Tomato Festival a success. Those interested in assisting in the kitchen or with the games may call Schock at 717-951-6411 and leave a message. To learn more about the Tomato Festival, search for "Washington Boro Tomato Festival to benefit Blue Rock Fire Rescue" on Facebook.