Fans of Lebanon Levi of reality show "Amish Mafia" will get to meet the character March 24 in an event benefiting Matthews Public Library in Fredericksburg, Lebanon County.
John, Alvin, Levi, Jolin - the subjects of "Amish Mafia"
“We know Lebanon Levi has lot of local fans. We decided it might be a fun way to hold a fund-raiser – what better place to have a fictional character than in the library,” said librarian Sheila Redcay, who is a fan of the show.
Lebanon Levi, star of Discovery Channel's "Amish Mafia," lives in Richland, Redcay said, and is a roofing contractor. "The guy's a regular guy and he goes to Walmart and Kumm Esse Diner and people snap his picture," Redcay said.
The show is about Levi and his gang of renegade “Amish” who live outside the community’s rules.
Lebanon Levi will be prepared to answer questions, Redcay said, although she said he won’t be doing media interviews. “Our first and foremost question will be ‘Does Merlin know you’re here?’ “ Redcay said, sticking to the plot of the show. Some of her other questions pertain to Levi’s relationship with Esther, whether he’s still dating Barbara and more. “I think we’ll have fun with it,” she said.
As to why Levi agreed to the library appearance, Redcay takes her answer from the show: “He said ‘All he wants to do is help people.”
Redcay said she has “laughed out loud” watching the show. “I know it’s controversial. But I grew up in Lancaster County, and I’m not offended,” Redcay said. All proceeds will benefit the library.
Redcay said she’s thrilled Lebanon Levi said yes, since she’s “used to rejection.” In summer of 2010, Redcay mounted a Facebook campaign to try to convince Keith Richards to visit the library in a book-signing for his autobiography, “Life.” A huge Richards fan, Redcay adopted a campaign motto, "Let no library be exiled from Main Street.“
Sadly, Richards declined, saying he was doing only one book signing, in New York City.
The March 24 event is 2-5 p.m. Redcay said the library can accommodate about 100 people, and if demand warrants it, they may assign time slots. Tickets will go on sale Feb. 20, and are $10, which includes a snack buffet. No tickets will be sold at the door. To purchase tickets visit the library, 102 W. Main St., Fredericksburg, or purchase online.