People across Lancaster County enjoyed their Memorial Day weekend, but many found this year's holiday more expensive than in years past.

More families are feeling a financial pinch because of growing gas and food costs. With barbecues and cookouts taking place across the county, grocery shoppers felt tight on money.

The Intelligencer Journal interviewed a number of Long's Park picnickers Monday. As the charcoal from the grills around the park perimeter created a smoky fence, people talked frankly about their concerns.

"I try to go to discount stores," Lisa Reed, of Leola, said. "It's too expensive at regular places."

Sue Richards, of Lancaster, has discovered her shopping habits are changing. "I'm using more coupons now and buying more store-brand items than before."

For the Chambers family, with three children, food is even more important. "I'm going to wherever there are sales now," Bridget Chambers said.

Nationwide, the cost of basic goods and services has risen about 4 percent in the past year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

And shoppers have responded. According to recent news stories, sales at discount grocery chain Sharp Shopper locations have increased 8 percent to 20 percent locally over the past year, as compared to only 4 percent in 2007.

The Chambers family has found the rising gas prices and food costs are causing them to focus more on how they travel.

For many Lancaster residents, enjoying vacation by staying home has become the norm.

"I am originally from Akron, but instead of visiting family I just wanted to stay home and relax," Janelle Maysilles, of Lancaster, said.

"We normally travel to the mountains for the holiday weekend" but skipped it this year, Jonathan Chambers said.

Many people are trying to change their routines to lessen the amount of traveling they must do. Gas is nearing $4 a gallon, and transportation costs are up 7.1 percent in the past year, according to recent news articles.

Sue Mills has tried to consolidate her time in the car. "Whether I'm going to the store or somewhere else, I try to minimize my trips," she said.

Few of those interviewed at Long's Park thought politicians would do much to change the situation. "No one will be affected (by new leadership), except stockholders," said Michael Dragoo.

"Politicians won't change the economy," Sarida Figueroa, of Lancaster, said.

"They always talk bull on that. That's why they're in politics."

Despite the economic and political issues around the country, many still flew flags, had cookouts and remembered those who have served and protected the United States.

Most of those at Long's Park were willing to put the economy on the backburner for the day.

Theresa Spath was visiting family from out of town, but transportation prices did not affect her plans, which did not involve just Memorial Day.

"Sure gas is expensive," she said, "but it's not enough to stop me from being here for my sister's birthday."

E-mail: jwalk@lnpnews.com

E-mail: lfreeman@lnpnews.com