As legend has it, the Lancaster 505 was created on or around May 5th, 2005 (5-05-05... coincidence?). The concept was born over a lunchtime discussion between co-founders Pete Ruggieri and Dan Ranck. The discussion was concerning how local networking organizations "just don't get it". They were so concerned with titles, collecting dues, and doing service projects that nobody had fun.

So the first "505 Happy Hour" was scheduled. It was touted as just a happy hour with no name-tags, no dues, and bullshit. Just working people getting together after work to blow off a little steam and have fun. We figured that friendships and networking should happen naturally through friendship and not through force.

Since 2005 the Lancaster 505 has had over 200 Happy Hours at local bars, numerous field trips, zero arrests, 3 marriages, and lots of great stories. We've tried to branch out to other cities such as Myrtle Beach & Dallas, but our fledgling chapters died on the vine. Apparently there is something special in Lancaster County, something in the water (perhaps all of the pollutants from the farms and the former RCA plant?) that keeps us wanting to drink on Wednesdays for a mid-week respite? Who knows, but we're going strong.

About the Co-Founders

Pete Ruggieri serves as the 505 Ringleader, Webmaster, and Newsletter Editor. All highly paid and sought after positions. In his spare time he manages to work 40 hours per week for AT&T Mobility selling cellphones (by the seashore?) and another 1-2 nights per week bartending at The Underground. Pete is single and lives in Lancaster City with 2 recycled Dobermans (Dolce & Bella), 3 recycled cats (Alergy, Zero, and Sarah), and 1 recycled Moe (Jeff). He is currently accepting applications to become his future ex-girlfriend. Please apply at lancaster505@gmail.com

 

 

 

 

Dan Ranck manages 505's "future technology" division which includes www.ListItMobile.com (Real Estate Mobile Marketing) and www.505Text.com (Mobile Marketing for everything else). Dan works full-time however as a Mortgage Banker www.LancCountyMortgage.com and on the weekends runs his DJ Business www.TheMusicSourceDJ.com . Dan is married and lives in Manheim with his wife Debby and son Bayley