This is the second year that the Ephrata Lions Club has organized a Veterans Expo on Veterans Day weekend. For 2024, the club has partnered with the Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus of Lancaster - Santa Marie Assembly 915 to provide dinners for attendees. "That's a complimentary plated meal for veterans," said Lions Club representative Steve Montpetit, who is helping to plan the event.

As with last year's expo, more than 20 veteran artisans and veteran-owned businesses will be present along with a number of nonprofit organizations that support veterans. The Ephrata Lions Club Veterans Expo will be held in the ballroom at the American Legion Post 429, 300 Cocalico St., Ephrata, on Sunday, Nov. 10, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The Lions have lined up a variety of vendors to set up displays at the event. "We will have woodworking and a couple of jewelry (makers)," said Montpetit, who added that a coffee company would also have a display.

"We have a lot of veteran organizations," stated Montpetit, who noted that the Lebanon Veterans Association will have a display for the first time this year, along with the returning Patriotic Stitchers for Veterans, a group that makes quilts and blankets for veterans, and Triggered 22, an entity that promotes awareness of post-traumatic stress disorder with a goal of preventing suicide.

"We are excited about the meal," noted Montpetit. "It's a full plated meal with dessert, coffee, and tea." Montpetit stated that the meal is free for veterans in the Ephrata Legion Dining Room from noon to 2 p.m. Other attendees may purchase meals at a set price. Individuals who wish to have a free or purchased meal are required to register by calling Bill Childs at 717-413-4562 by Friday, Nov. 1. Dinners for those taking part in the expo will be served prior to the start of the event.

There is no admission charge to attend the show, but monetary donations and pairs of socks to be donated to the Stockings for Soldiers programs will be welcomed. "We will also take any personal hygiene items as donations," said Montpetit.

Artisans and nonprofits will donate items for prizes and giveaways. Themed baskets that will be given away as prizes will include baskets donated by businesses, including Mary Kay and Mission BBQ. Live music will be provided by Guitars 4 Vets from 1 to 3 p.m.

Readers who would like more information may search for "Ephrata Lions Club" on Facebook and click on "Events." The Ephrata Lions Club meets at the Ephrata American Legion building on the first and third Thursdays of each month at 6 p.m. The group welcomes new members.