COLUMBIA SPY

by Robert Misciagna- activist, school director, progressive What would $1800 more a year do for you and your family? That is how much many Lancaster County residents could save if we achieved affordable housing for all. In America today, housing is expensive. Economists recommend that every family budget 30% of their income for housing. In the year 2020, that is simply an unrealistic expectation. Nearly half of Americans spend more than 30% of their income to put a roof over their head. 18 million spend more than half of their paycheck just for shelter. In Pennsylvania, with our state minimum wage of $7.25/hr, if you want to find yourself a one-bedroom apartment, and have it considered affordable, you have to work 86 hours a week. If you want a two-bedroom apartment, and don’t want to work more than 40 hours a week, you better be making more than $19/hr. Otherwise, be prepared to spend an even larger chunk of your income on housing, or to put in significant overtime. Th...

(Pictured: A photo from a video announcement shared by Sparrow Websites, showcasing three of Justin Rule, new sole owner of the business.) Justin Rule, previous co-owner of Sparrow Websites, announced changes in the business including his new role as sole owner. Adam Grim and Joe Byler, both previous stakeholders in Sparrow, are continuing to work with Sparrow on a part-time basis while perusing additional business passions. Sparrow Websites began in 2016 by Rule and Grim as a website design company for small businesses out of Lancaster, PA. Its mission to deliver affordable, expert products to entrepreneurs, nonprofits, and other small businesses continues to be at the forefront of the organization. Since 2016, Sparrow has grown in services, employees, and physical location. In December of 2019, Sparrow made the move to the Ignite Building in downtown Columbia, what was once Columbia Life Network. Sparrow took a special interest in the local community and participated in mul...

This week's photos of Columbia (Click/tap on photos to see larger, sharper images.) Old friends Pride Flag -  Columbia moves into the 21st Century. Backyard flags Ready to embark Holding down the roof at Holy Trinity Tribute to World War II submarine crews (Locust Street Park) Painting continues at Global Time Wizard Once again, dumping Lighting up at 403 Locust  Construction vehicles used at the 401-403 Locust Street project did a number on the curb at the lot at 4th & Locust. Although the sidewalk was replaced last week, the curb still needs tender loving care. As Colonel Bull Meechum would say, "Grossly insufficient!" Signs at 430 Walnut Working on that bottom panel Meanwhile, across the street  at 421 Avenue G A 19-space parking lot with fence and gate is currently under construction there. The permit was apparently signed on August 4, 2020 by Interim Zoning Officer Ka...