Hershey
LOCATION
A popular tourist destination that attracts over two million visitors a year and with a local population of over 13,000 residents, Hershey Pennsylvania has both the intimate feel of a small town coupled with the cosmopolitan flavor of a big city. A subsidiary of Dauphin County, Hershey is located in the lower eastern portion of the state of Pennsylvania. Easily assessable, Hershey is 90 miles from Baltimore, 175 miles from New York City, 100 miles from Philadelphia and 150 miles from Central New Jersey. Hershey is also located within fifty miles of three airports: Harrisburg International Airport in Dauphin County PA, Lancaster Airport in Lancaster and Reading Regional in Berks County. Hershey is close to Interstates 76 and 78 and highway 283. Hershey is a short fifteen-minute drive to the Harrisburg Train Station. Seven trains arrive daily from Philadelphia alone making it an easy commute to any big city destination.
BRIEF HISTORY
Milton Hershey was a man not easily discouraged. Determined to create a chocolate factory that would rival the superlatives reserved only for the Swiss manufacturers, Hershey experienced failure at his first two candy making ventures; one in New York, the other in Chicago. Unlocking the mystery to milk chocolate magic, in 1903 he began construction on what was destined to become the world's most famous chocolate factory. Mr. Hershey's aspirations did not end there. Recognizing a moral and personal responsibility to the surrounding community, Hershey constructed a model town around his factory to provide an inclusive way of life that could be enjoyed by his employees. Mr. Hershey outfitted the town with public transportation and affordable housing and areas of easy recreation. Mr. Hershey wanted to create a town full of individuality and charm as opposed to an impersonal industrial center. To that end he also provided a ballroom, swimming pool, amusement rides and an extensive park. Curious visitors soon flocked in by trolley to experience first hand the special town that chocolate had created.
SPECIAL ATTRACTIONS
More than a child's fantasy, Hershey Pennsylvania is home to a variety of sweet distractions from the floral abundance of the breathtaking gardens to the North American wild life park Zoo America, Hershey deservedly attracts over two million visitors annually. Hershey Pennsylvania is full of family fun. Hershey Park, a thrill seeker 's paradise, is full of speedy roller coasters, amusement rides, and family shows. Zoo America is an eleven-acre facility that recreates the terrain and habitat of over 75 species of native North American animals. The Hershey Gardens was a labor of love for Milton Hershey. Opened to the public in 1937 as a 3 ˝" acre rose garden it has since blossomed into a 23 acre beauteous world of botanical brilliance. From humble beginnings the elaborate garden now includes a Japanese Pavilion, rock garden, arboretum and a magical outdoor butterfly house. And of course no self-respecting child can pass through Hershey without taking a peek in the factory to discover the secrets of the most popular chocolate in the world. Hershey provides a wealth of interesting experiences that titillate every sense from the mouthwatering aroma of cooking chocolate that permeates the town to the twinkling lights and lamp post kisses that brighten the night time promenades. Hershey is a land of mouthwatering fun.
Health Care
Hershey Pennsylvania is home to one of the most prestigious medical facilities in the country. Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Penn State College of Medicine, and Penn State Children's Hospital comprise a health care triumvirate that embodies state of art technology and distinguished patient care. Penn State College of Medicine is a dedicated to a high standard of education for all students pursuing a career in the medical profession. Milton S. Hershey Medical Center is committed to educational programs and patient services that promote a healthy style of life. The medical facility also includes a highly developed research center that is at the forefront in the advancement of medical and scientific knowledge. Focused upon providing a full range of professional patient care services for the residents of central Pennsylvania, Hershey Medical maintains its reputation as one of the nation's premier academic medical centers.
Harrisburg
LOCATION
With a population of over 50,000, Harrisburg Pennsylvania is a thriving mixture of culture and commerce. Situated on the Susquehanna River, Harrisburg is within easy proximity of many major metropolitan centers. Located along the Pennsylvania Turnpike with its network of major interstate junctions Harrisburg is within manageable travel distance to any point in the northeastern United States. New York is an easy198 miles, Baltimore 81 and Washington DC 133. Harrisburg International Airport is a short commute and Amtrak connects Harrisburg to the entire eastern seaboard. Named after John Harris who planned the town, Harrisburg was almost overwhelmed by Confederate forces during the Civil War but gained a reprieve when the battalions retreated after the battle of Gettysburg. Today Harrisburg stands tall with a strong economy, low crime rate and conservative values. Harrisburg has experienced a positive resurgence in the past ten years that has resulted in a better quality of life for its residents.
SPECIAL ATTRACTIONS
There is an abundance of recreational, cultural and historical attractions in Pennsylvania's state capital. Experience Harrisburg's old world charm on City Island, the city's island park. Accessed by paddle wheel boat or a short bridge crossing, City Island offers carriage rides, a mini steam train, an old fashioned carousel and plenty of shopping opportunities. Or take a visit to the State Capitol building with its majestic domed roof that was inspired by St. Peter's Basilica. The State Museum of Pennsylvania houses a comprehensive collection of arts and artifacts ranging from prehistoric people to American folk art. Visitors can step back in time and take a dinner cruise along the beautiful Susquehanna River on the Pride of the Susquehanna an authentic paddle wheel riverboat. Harrisburg is also within easy access to many points of natural beauty as well. The Gifford Pinchot State Park is full of hiking trails, wildlife and outdoor adventure.
ABOUT EDUCATION
Harrisburg has always put a premium on quality education for both children and aspirants of higher learning. The Capital Region Intermediate Unit 15 is an agency that provides educational evaluation for the students of the 25 school districts and addresses the learning needs of the children of Harrisburg. In addition to both parochial and private schools, Harrisburg provides high quality education for those children less fortunate. The king of chocolate and genuine altruist, Milton Hershey, founded Milton Hershey School. Today, those children that come from families with limited income have the opportunity to partake of quality cost free residential education in a safe environment. In addition to a strong curriculum, children attending Hershey School are also provided with clothing, food, medical access and financial support. Adult education and institutes of higher learning figure predominantly into the Harrisburg educational system. Harrisburg is the home of several colleges of academic distinction.
ABOUT HEALTHCARE
As a resident of Harrisburg you can rest assured that you are within easy access of some of the best and comprehensive medical facilities in the nation. The Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center offers highly specialized care complimented by state of the art technical support. The Hershey Medical Center specializes in care for children, family practice, women's care and an urgent care center. The facility also includes research centers and labs devoted to both the prevention and treatment of AIDS, hemophilia, infertility, and pain management. Institutes dedicated to cancer research, sports medicine and biomedical engineering to name a few all centered upon the providing a deeper understanding into the symptoms, prevention and care of those areas that require further understanding and help. In addition to the world-renowned Hershey Medical Center, Harrisburg is also home to several other major health care institutes including the Harrisburg Hospital, Polyclinic Hospital and the Seidle Hospital all geared towards addressing the health care needs of the Harrisburg area.
Lancaster
LOCATION
Lancaster Pennsylvania is a mid size city with a population over 57,000. Located within the south central portion of the state and situated in the heart of the Pennsylvania Dutch country, Lancaster is within an hour drive of Harrisburg, Hershey and Reading and within a 2-hour drive to Baltimore and Philadelphia. Washington DC is a three hour drive and New York City is over four all easily accessed by US routes 30, 283 and 222 or the Pennsylvania Turnpike. Harrisburg International Airport services Lancaster and Amtrak provides a full schedule of daily train departures.
BRIEF HISTORY
Lancaster Pennsylvania has a rich and dramatic history that has placed it literally in the heart of America's heritage. Originally populated by a variety of Native American Indian tribes, Lancaster became a sanctuary for predominantly Amish, German and English immigrants fleeing religious persecution. The city of Lancaster, founded in 1729 and incorporated in 1818, has been an integral participant in both the Revolutionary and Civil Wars, a benevolent stop on the Underground Railroad, a political hotbed which produced many great political figures of the 18th and 19th centuries and has played an important role in the advent of the Industrial Revolution. The commercially charged and forward-looking energy of Lancaster has given rise to many companies that have now become household names. Hershey's Chocolate Company originally was founded in 1894, F.W. Woolworth introduced the world to the 5 & 10 store in 1879 and the Hamilton Watch Company created a line of innovative timepieces including the first battery operated wrist watch.
SPECIAL ATTRACTIONS
Lancaster is known as the heartland of the "Pennsylvania Dutch Country." Time spent in Lancaster will allow you the exceptional opportunity of viewing a world that is as distinct and unique as it is secret and mysterious. Home to the country's oldest Amish community, Lancaster combines the lush beauty of the rolling countryside with the magical serenity of a simpler way of life. In Lancaster one can gain entrance into an extraordinary culture by visiting a working farm, a one-room schoolhouse, or a religious meeting. Or you can enjoy the many historic landmarks from the seat of a horse drawn buggy, the most popular way to see the countryside. For a relaxed and leisurely view of the Pennsylvania Dutch country, climb aboard the Strasburg Railroad, a beautifully resorted authentic passenger train that recaptures the magic and beauty of a by-gone era. Or enjoy a delicious meal in the sumptuous dining car and watch the world pass by. If you require a more exciting excursion, make haste to the Dutch Wonderland Amusement Park, which provides thrills.
ABOUT EDUCATION
Education has always been of primary importance for the residents of Lancaster County. Lancaster takes pride in the active participation and consistent involvement of both parents and community alike in creating a dynamic and vital atmosphere of quality education. Each school district is appropriately accredited, academically sound and characterized by excellent student-teacher ratios. The Lancaster School District offers programs geared toward college preparation as well as comprehensive vocational and technical training. In addition, Lancaster also provides an impressive selection of both private and state affiliated colleges and universities.
ABOUT HEALTHCARE
Healthcare for the residents of Lancaster is a well-organized and comprehensive system including state of the art hospitals and wellness centers, and in addition to a variety in long term care. Four major hospitals in the area provide medical service to the more than 500,00 members in the Lancaster area. Lancaster General is the area's oldest and most continuously operating health center and has been ranked in the top ten percent of the nation's hospitals by the U.S. News and World Report. Lancaster Regional Medical Center is a 268-bed facility that provides health services to patients that require intensive and specialized medical attention. The Community Hospital of Lancaster is in the final stages of construction and will be inaugurated in the spring of 2004. A full service, self-contained facility, Lancaster Community will specialize in wellness support, community education and research into disease awareness and prevention. Ephrata Community Hospital is a non-profit health service that provides primary care and pain management in addition to women's health care.
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