Donegal Band’s Quest Ends in Glory
BY CAT SHANNON
With a theme of “The Search for El Dorado,” Donegal High School marching band did much more than find a mythical city during its most recent season. The band also earned its third consecutive Cavalcade Championship on Nov. 1 at Dallastown Area High School. Additionally, the band took home awards for High Music, High Overall Effect, Best Percussion Section and High Visual.
the band vice president and woodwind section leader and plays the alto saxophone.
This year’s band featured about 30 students, who delivered a show full of drama and flair.
“We traveled through the jungle and over a river and through the mountains to find El Dorado,” said Abigail Waldron, a senior who is
Senior Samantha Alampi, who is the band president and percussion section leader, plays electric keyboard in the band. She explained the qualities judges consider when awarding the honors.
“High Music is the highest score overall for music,” she said. “It’s
focused on what the musicians are playing, disregarding any visuals. High Visual judges the color guard, partially on technique and partially on form. Are we in straight lines, and things like that.”
Best Percussion ranks the percussion section out of 200 points, and Overall Effect considers the show as a whole.
“It’s like a vibe check of the
Heart,
BY CAT SHANNON
In “Steel Magnolias,” one line captures the heart of the story: “Laughter through tears is my favorite emotion,” says Truvy Jones, the beauty salon owner at the center of the tale. It’s a promise the show keeps. When Susquehanna Stage brings the play to life, audiences can expect a ride full of
humor, heartache and, above all, love.
“The emotions in this show are very up and down,” said director Chris Koslosky. “It’s a really funny show. It starts out as a comedy, but then it takes a turn.”
“Steel Magnolias” focuses on six very different women who bond during their sessions in Truvy’s salon.
Sports Buzz Into 2026 With Beekeeping Skills
BY CAT SHANNON
Looking to try a new hobby in 2026 and help the planet at the same time? Sign up for the Lancaster County Beekeepers Society’s New Beekeeper Workshop. The workshop will be held on Saturday, Jan. 31, 2026, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at The Gathering Place, 6 Pine St., Mount Joy. Doors will open at 7:15 a.m.
“Beekeeping is a deeply rewarding hobby that has a meaningful impact on the environment,” said Kim Fairfield, secretary/communications director for the society. “For some, this can be a lucrative enterprise, but for most hobbyist beekeepers, the reward is in the calming, hands-on care for the bees that improves pollination in our communities, encourages stewardship of nature and promotes individual mindfulness. Of course, there’s also the sweet, golden reward of harvesting your own honey and beeswax!”
During the workshop, participants will receive all the essential information they need to begin beekeeping.
“We will cover topics that include the biology of bees, how to source your bees, how to set up and position your hives, caring for your bees, beekeeping equipment and costs, pest control, honey extraction and more,” Fairfield shared. “Attendees have the opportunity to speak one-on-one with seasoned beekeepers, win door prizes and enter (giveaways) to win hives and other equipment.”
The workshop fee will include lunch and all materials and take-home handouts, as well as
The Donegal High School marching band
The cast of “Steel Magnolias”
PUBLISHED BY:
PUBLISHED WEDNESDAYS DISPLAY ADVERTISING DEADLINE Friday at 10 A.M.
DISPLAY AD CUSTOMER SERVICE:
Phone: 717-492-2530 • Fax: 717-892-6016
SUBMIT CAMERA-READY ADS TO: sales@engleonline.com
SUBMIT CLASSIFIED ADS ONLINE AT: epcclassifieds.com • classifieds@engleonline.com
The Merchandiser reserves the right to reject any advertisement. The Merchandiser assumes no financial responsibility for any typographical errors in advertisements but will reprint that portion of an ad in which error occurs. Advertisers submitting artwork and images for use in advertisements assume all liability in regards to trademark and copyright infringements.
CIRCULATION/DISTRIBUTION:
Phone: 800-800-1833 ext. 6014 circulation@engleonline.com
Mailed outside our circulation area for $36/year.
NEWS DEADLINE: Thursday at 12 Noon
MAIL NEWS TO: Merchandiser Editor PO Box 500, Mount Joy, PA 17552 Phone: 800-800-1833 ext. 6018 news@engleonline.com
We encourage local nonprofit groups, schools, churches, and others to submit news releases. Dated articles, highlighting local activities and events, and undated articles of general interest are used as space allows. Related photographs of good quality, with complete identification, are encouraged.
show,” Samantha said. “It’s focused on how impactful our choices are and how impactful the design is.”
Donegal’s visuals included costume changes for the color guard members, when they transformed from wearing beige safari outfits to glittery gold costumes, as well as backdrops that included curtains constructed of artificial vines that parted to reveal a digital image of El Dorado.
The band members expected to do well going into the competition, because the season had already been a successful one for the group.
“We won all of our other competitions, and we also got the highest scores out of our division,” shared Rita Engel, a junior who is the band secretary and plays the mellophone. “We were in first place for our whole season. We had to just make sure we were in the right mindset to work hard and get the job done. Most of the band was confident we were going to win.”
knew they had done their best, but they were still nervous to hear the results, Samantha said.
“We stood there, holding hands really tight while they were announcing every other score possible except for our division,” she noted. “It was a long wait to hear our name, and then a couple of us were crying. We were all really excited to win.”
In the past, the band members have been greeted by supporters when they returned to the high school after the competition, and they’ve even been treated to an escort through town.
“This year, we didn’t get back to school until about midnight, so it more low-key this time,” Samantha said. “We did go to McDonald’s with the whole band on the way home.”
Step Into German Christmas Magic
BY CAT SHANNON
This holiday season, take a trip to Europe without leaving Lancaster County.
“Ditch the mall and go straight to Germany for the day!” said Elise Fasnacht, chair of Lancaster Liederkranz’s Christkindlmarkt. “It only happens for one day, and it’s the most authentic holiday magic you’ll find in the area. It’s the perfect place to find a truly special, nonmass-produced gift.”
Engle Printing & Publishing Co., Inc. PO Box 500, Mount Joy, PA 17552 TOWNLIVELY.COM
She noted that having elaborate scenery and props worked in the band’s favor to win over the judges, but it required extra effort from the band members themselves.
“Usually, bands march onto the field,” she said. “We had to sprint onto the field, pushing props and boxes, and set it all up before the show started. We were usually out of breath before the show even began.”
When it was time for the announcement of the winners at the Cavalcade, the band members
The girls emphasized that their success would not be possible without the support of many people, including director Dale Sellers; visual director Nicole Witmer; color guard instructor Yasmine Moyer; and Stan Tucker, who helps in a variety of ways.
“Shout out to all of our directors, the parents who help get us on and off the field and pack up the band, the band moms who keep us fed and the other high school students who help with props,” Samantha said. “Everyone who helped who isn’t in the band also deserves a huge shout-out for winning the championship. Without them, we’d all be hungry, tired, annoyed, and we wouldn’t be able to perform our best.”
Breakfast With Santa Planned
St. John’s Episcopal Church, 239 E. Market St., Marietta, will host Breakfast With Santa on Saturday, Dec. 13, from 8 to 10 a.m.
Santa Claus will be available at the pancake breakfast to greet guests and take wish lists from children. With the help of Mrs. Claus and an elf, Santa will give out small gifts to each child under
age 12. Parents are encouraged to take pictures.
The breakfast will include pancakes, sausages, fruit, homemade goodies, juice, and coffee. There is a fee; children under age 5 may eat for free.
Proceeds from the breakfast will benefit the church’s outreach programs. For more information, call the church at 717-426-3189.
Christkindlmarkt will be held on Sunday, Dec. 14, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Lancaster Liederkranz, 722 S. Chiques Road, Manheim. It will feature a variety of food, fun and entertainment for the whole family.
People are invited to browse more than 30 craft and gift vendors and enjoy traditional German food and beverages such as Gl√ºhwein, a hot mulled spiced wine. A variety of musical performances from various Liederkranz groups will entertain guests as well. Pictures with St. Nick and Ruprecht will be offered, along with access to a children’s playground and a bonfire with s’mores. Children’s crafts and gift shopping at Kinderland will be held inside the clubhouse on the lower level. Fest food and beverages will be sold outside at the pavilion, with seated dining available in the clubhouse.
“We hold traditional events like this to share, celebrate and support the preservation of German culture,” Fasnacht said, noting that the Liederkranz has been a vibrant part of Lancaster’s German-American heritage for almost 150 years. “This event is particularly special to me as it was the brainchild of my late mother, Monica. There is a Christmas tree at the pavilion dedicated in her memory.”
She hopes that people who have never come to Christkindlmarkt before will check it out and that returning attendees will come back again this year.
“From the Glühwein recipe to the German choruses, for people of German descent, it offers a tangible link to their heritage,” she said.
Parking is available with a charge per car in a lot adjacent to the clubhouse as well as one across
the street. Free parking will be available at Farm Credit, 15 Eby Chiques Road, Mount Joy, and a
A firepit is the perfect spot to make s’mores at Christkindlmarkt.
See Magic pg 5
People shop at a previous year’s Christkindlmarkt.
BOSSLER MENNONITE CHURCH: Located at 2021 Bossler Rd., Elizabethtown. Phone: 717-367-5167. Web site: www.bosslermennonite.org Sunday Worship held at 10 am. Preschool: 717537-8192.
CHIQUES METHODIST CHURCH:
1215 E. Main St., Mount Joy. Doug Paglia, Pastor. Worship Service at 9-10 am Children’s Sunday School: 9-10 am. Refreshments & Fellowship: 10-10:30 am. Adult Sunday School at 10:30-11:30 am. Nursery Provided, Handicapped Accessible. For more information, call: 717-653-5175.
CHRIST EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH
75-125 East High Street, Elizabethtown 717-367-2786. Rev. Albert J. Domines, Jr., Sr. Pastor. Rev. Gerald R. Kliner, Jr., Assoc. Pastor. Liturgies of Holy Eucharist Saturday at 6pm and Sunday at 8:15am & 11am. Sunday school for all ages 9:45am Handicapped accessible. Morning Prayer Wednesdays at 8:30am. Visit us online at: www.christlutheran-etown.com
COMMUNITY BIBLE CHURCH: welcomes you to Love God, Love Others, and Reach Out with us! Join us for worship on Sundays at 8:00, 9:30, or 11:00 a.m. We’re located at 331 Anderson Ferry Road in Marietta (off Rt 441 on Rt 772). Learn more at cbcpa.org.
ELIZABETHTOWN MENNONITE CHURCH:
300 S Spruce St. (corner of S. Spruce & E. Bainbridge) Elizabethtown, PA 17022. You are welcome to join us for Sunday School at 9:00 am and Sunday Worship at 10:00 am - in person or livestreamed on our YouTube Channel. Ph: 717-367-7089 info@etownmennonite.com Visit us online at www.etownmennonite.com
ETOWN GRACE CHURCH, 305 Anchor Rd, Elizabethtown, PA 17022. Dr. Rick A. Clark, Pastor. Sunday: SS and Adult Bible Classes 9 am, Morning Worship 10:15 am. Wed night 6:15-7:45 pm AWANA (Children’s Ministry). Website at etowngrace.com
FLORIN CHURCH OF THE BRETHREN: You are welcome here! Worship service is at 10:15am Sunday mornings at 815 Bruce Avenue, Mount Joy PA 17552. Now LiveStreaming on YouTube - Search for us @florinchurch For more information, visit us at www.florincob.org Phone: 717-6531202 Email: secretary@florincob.org
GLOSSBRENNER CHURCH: 713 Church St. (located on the corner of Church & Angle Sts.), Mount Joy. Sunday Worship Service: 10:00 am (In-Person or Live Streamed). Nursery Provided, Handicapped Accessible. Sunday School for all ages: 11:15 am. Pastor: Heather Hammel. Church Office: 717-653-5683. "Like" us on Facebook: Glossbrenner Church. www.glossbrenner.net
GRACE COMMUNITY FELLOWSHIP CHURCH OF MANHEIM: 1483 N. Colebrook Rd., Manheim. SUNDAYS: Adult Bible Class at 9:30am and Worship Service at 10:30am. Wednesday Evening Prayer is held from 6:30pm-7:30pm For more details, please visit http://www.gcfmanheim.org or call 717-665-7222.
MARY MOTHER OF THE CHURCH (A Roman Catholic Parish): 625 Union School Rd., Mount Joy. Pastor: Rev. Ted Keating. Mass Times: Saturday Vigil 4:30pm, Sunday 8:30 & 11 am; Monday thru Friday 8:30 am. Confessions: Sat 3:30pm. 717-653-4903, visit us online at www.marymotherparish.org
MAYTOWN CHURCH OF GOD: 14 West Elizabeth St., Maytown. Scott Sweigart, Pastor. All are w0elcome! Sunday Worship Service at 9:00 am. Phone: 717-426-3117. www.maytowncog.org
MILTON GROVE CHURCH: 2026 Cloverleaf Road (located N. of Rt. 283 Rheems/ Elizabethtown Exit) Mount Joy. Pastor: Jamie Pietsch. Join us Sundays at 9:30 am for in-person worship and on Facebook live at www.miltongrovechurch.com
Milanof-Schock Library Posts
Activities
OPEN DOOR MISSION MIRACLE LIFE CHURCH: 201 S 2nd St. Wrightsville Bridging gaps, Uplifting Lives, Revealing God's Love. Pastor Stephen Rambler Sundays 10:30AM & 6:30PM ODMMLC.COM 717-854-1220
PROCLAMATION PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (PCA): Meeting at Kraybill Mennonite School, 598 Kraybill Church Rd., Mount Joy, PA 17552. Sundays at 10:30am We Welcome You! Visit us online at www.proclamationpca.com
RUHL’S CHURCH: A growing church committed to Christ. Worship on Sunday morning at 8 am for a traditional feel. Sunday School for all ages at 9:15 am., 10:30 am. Worship led by praise band. (Nursery available. Handicap accessible.) For more information, please call 717-665-3400 or visit www.ruhlschurch.org Located at 4810 Elizabethtown Rd, Manheim.
SAINT LUKE EPISCOPAL CHURCH: 209 S. Market St. at Columbia Ave., Mount Joy. Phone: 717-653-4977. Sunday Holy Eucharist at 11 am. Wednesday Morning Prayer at 10 am in the Education Building. Taize Service 1st Sat. of the month at 5 pm. stlukesmountjoy@gmail.com www.stlukesmountjoypa.org Handicap Accessible.
SAINT PAUL’S CHURCH (A united Methodist Congregation): 398 N. Locust Street (North Spruce and Oak Streets), Elizabethtown, PA 17022. Phone:717-367-1889. Sunday Worship: Traditional at 8:30am, Grace Kids (ages 0-12 yrs) at 10:15am, Contemporary 10:15am.Email:office@wearesaintpauls.com Visit us online at: wearesaintpauls.com
ST. MARK’S UNITED METHODIST CHURCH: Loving, growing, and sharing JOY through Jesus! Sunday service times: 9 and 10:30 a.m. 27 E. Main St., Mount Joy 717-6535493. www.connectstmarks.com Livestream at facebook.com/ConnectStMarks
TBC BIBLE CHURCH: Together Becoming Christ-like. 5880 School House Rd., Elizabethtown. We are a friendly, family-like atmosphere welcoming you to join us for Sunday school for all ages at 9:30 am & worship at 10:30 am. (jr. church included). Afternoon / evening gatherings meet on various Sundays for prayer, Bible study and fellowship. Wednesday prayer meeting at 7:00pm. Monthly men’s and women’s Bible studies offer an opportunity to grow deeper in the Word and to fellowship with others. tbcbiblechurch.org or call 717-433-7585
THE ENCOUNTER CHURCH: A gathering of imperfect people seeking to know and encounter God. Sunday morning prayer at 9 am & worship at 10 am. 221 N. Front St., Bainbridge. www.encounter-connect.org
WAYSIDE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH: 600 Stony Battery Rd., Landisville (near Hempfield High School). Rev. Dr. Stephen P. Fritz, Pastor. Sunday morning Worship with Nursery: 9am Traditional, 10am Fellowship, 10:30am Contemporary with Children & Youth classes. www.waysidepc.org or call: (717) 898-1551.
WORD OF LIFE CHAPEL: 139 Wickersham Rd., Bainbridge. 717-426-1171 Sunday Service - 10:15 am (Children’s Ministry & Nursery Care Provided). Visit us online at www.wordoflifechapel.org We welcome you!
ZION EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH/ LANDISVILLE: 85 East Brandt Blvd. 717-898-2911; adminzelc@comcast.net In-person worship at 9am. Live-stream link can be found at zionhempfield.net under the worship tab and on the Zion Lutheran Hempfield Facebook page. Adult Sunday School in-person at 10:15am. Pastor Timothy Seitz-Brown.
Please Note: Updates can be made to your church’s listing for 1st issue date of each month only. (Changes must be submitted by the previous Wednesday.)
For More Information On Church Listings And Rates, Call Justin at 717-492-2533
Milanof-Schock Library, 1184 Anderson Ferry Road, Mount Joy, will offer a variety of special events and programming. All programs are free, unless stated otherwise, and require preregistration. For more information and to register, visit www.mslibrary .org or call 717-653-1510.
The Mount Joy Chamber of Commerce has arranged for Santa Claus to visit the library on Saturday, Dec. 13, from 11 a.m. to noon. Each family will receive a complimentary photo to take home, and the library Friends group will offer a craft for children. There will be free cookies and hot chocolate, and the Friends will also hold a holiday bake sale. Noel’s Caf é Coffee/Beverage Truck will be in the parking lot. There is no need to register for the program, and library cards are not required. Programs for children and families will include Reading with Sasha, a KPets therapy dog, Thursdays, from 5 to 7 p.m. (15-minute time slots are available); Wiggle and Giggle Story Time, Monday, Dec. 22, at 10:30 a.m. and Saturday, Dec. 27, at 10 a.m. for children age 6 months through 2 years; and Family Movie Matinee, Dec. 22 at 10 a.m. The featured movie will be “Frozen!” There will be free popcorn, but participants should bring a covered beverage and may bring other snacks if desired.
As part of Movie Night, the library will show the 1994 version of “Little Women” on Wednesday, Dec. 10, at 6 p.m. Free popcorn will be provided. Curious Minds Story Time, led by a member of the Janus School team, will be offered on Tuesday, Dec. 16, at 10:30 a.m. There will be a themed story, songs and a craft. Snuggle Up Family Story Time with Miss Alyssa will take place on Dec. 16 at 6 p.m. Kids
may wear their pajamas and bring a favorite stuffed animal.
Activities for adults will include Closely Knit, a program for knitters and crocheters, Dec. 22 at 1 p.m., with no registration necessary; Adult Book Bingo, Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2 p.m.; Joyful Stitchers Cross-Stitch Club, for people of all skill levels, on Saturday, Dec. 20, from 9:15 a.m. to 12:45 p.m.; Make-It Monday on Dec. 15, 6 p.m., when families will make a winter-themed scenery decoration; and Adult Game Night on Dec. 17 at 5 p.m. Easy Writer Club, for writers of all levels, will meet on Dec. 17 at 6:30 p.m. No registration is required.
The library will have Family Story Time, featuring stories, songs and a craft, at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesdays, Dec. 10, 17 and 24, and Thursday, Dec. 18.
Family Twister will be featured on Monday, Dec. 29, at 10:30 a.m., and Wee Build Free Build will be offered on Tuesday, Dec. 30, at 10:30 a.m. during which families can enjoy unstructured play and building.
A Special Guest Story Time, led by a member of the Janus School team, will take place on Dec. 18 at 10:30 a.m. Story time will include a themed story, songs and a craft.
Families are invited to celebrate the New Year on Wednesday, Dec. 31, at 11 a.m. with an hour of stories, dances, music and crafts.
The library will close at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 24, and will be closed on Thursday, Dec. 25. The library will also close at 2 p.m. on Dec. 31, and will be closed on Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026.
Gently used books and media can be donated to the self-service shed behind the library on Mondays through Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Donegal Winter Sports Kickoff
Basketball
Boys' Schedule
Wed. 12/3 at Eastern York 7:30 pm
Tue. 12/9 vs Manheim Township 7:30 pm
Thu. 12/11 vs Elco 7:30 pm
Mon. 12/15 vs Octorara at Donegal 7:30 pm
Thu. 12/18 at Lampeter-Strasburg 7:30 pm
Sat. 12/20 at West York 2:30 pm
Mon. 12/22 at Solanco 7:30 pm
Mon. 12/29 at East Pennsboro 11:30 am
Fri. 1/2 at Lebanon 7:30 pm
Mon. 1/5 at Lancaster Catholic 7:30 pm
Wed. 1/7 vs Milton Hershey 7:30 pm
Fri. 1/9 vs Manheim Central 7:30 pm
Tue. 1/13 at Elco 7:30 pm
Sat. 1/17 vs Warwick 7:30 pm
Fri. 1/23 vs Lampeter-Strasburg 7:30 pm
Mon. 1/26 vs Elizabethtown 7:30 pm
Thu. 1/29 vs Lancaster Catholic 7:30 pm
Tue. 2/3 at Manheim Central 7:30 pm
Thu. 2/9 vs Ephrata 7:30 pm
Bowling
Mon. 12/1 vs Elco 3:30 pm
Thu. 12/4 vs Cocalico 3:30 pm
Tue. 12/9 at Manheim Central 3:30 pm
Thu. 12/11 at Lancaster Mennonite 3:30 pm
Mon. 12/15 vs Garden Spot 3:30 pm
Thu. 12/18 at Lampeter-Strasburg 3:30 pm
Mon. 1/5 vs Northern Lebanon 3:30 pm
Fri. 1/9 at Cocalico 3:30 pm
Sat. 1/10 vs Conrad Weiser 10:30 am
Tue. 1/13 vs Manheim Central 3:30 pm
Thu. 1/15 vs Columbia 3:30 pm
Fri. 1/16 vs Janus 3:30 pm
Thu. 1/22 vs Lancaster Catholic 3:30 pm
Fri. 1/23 at Elizabethtown 5:30 pm
Thu. 1/29 at Northern Lebanon 3:30 pm
Girls' Schedule
Mon. 12/1 vs Garden Spot
7:30 pm
Wed. 12/3 at Eastern York 7:30 pm
Fri. 12/5 Donegal Tourn. 6:00 pm
Sat. 12/6 Donegal Tourn. 1:30 pm
Tue. 12/9 at Hempfield 7:30 pm
Thu. 12/11 at Elco 7:30 pm
Mon. 12/15 at Northern Lebanon 7:30 pm
Thu. 12/18 vs Lampeter-Strasburg 7:30 pm
Mon. 12/22 vs Solanco 7:30 pm Fri. 1/2 vs Lebanon 7:30 pm
Mon. 1/5 vs Lancaster Catholic 7:30 pm
Fri. 1/9 at Manheim Central 7:30 pm
Mon. 1/12 at Warwick 7:30 pm
Tue. 1/13 vs Elco 7:30 pm
Thu. 1/15 vs Northern Lebanon 7:30 pm
Mon. 1/19 at Red Land 7:00 pm
Thu. 1/22 vs Dover 7:30 pm
Fri. 1/23 at Lampeter-Strasburg 7:30 pm
Mon. 1/26 at Elizabethtown 7:30 pm
Thu. 1/29 at Lancaster Catholic 7:30 pm
Tue. 2/3 vs Manheim Central 7:30 pm
Thu. 2/9 at Ephrata 7:30 pm
Wrestling
Boys’ Schedule
Fri. 12/5 Solanco Tourn. 8:00 am Sat. 12/6 Solanco Tourn. 8:00 am
Wed. 12/10 vs Warwick 7:00 pm
Wed. 12/17 vs Cocalico 7:00 pm
Mon. 12/29 Donegal Holiday Tourn. 8:00 am Tue. 12/30 Donegal Holiday Tourn. 8:00 am
Tue. 1/6 at Conestoga Valley 7:00 pm
Thu. 1/8 vs Lampeter-Strasburg 7:00 pm
Sat. 1/10 at McCaskey 7:00 am
Wed. 1/14 vs Garden Spot 7:00 pm Fri. 1/16 vs Lampeter-Strasburg 7:00 pm
Wed. 1/21 at Elizabethtown 7:00 pm
Girls’ Schedule
Wed. 12/10 at Warwick 6:30 pm
Wed. 12/17 vs Elco 6:30 pm Thu. 1/8 vs Lampeter-Strasburg 6:30 pm Fri. 1/16 vs Lampeter Catholic 6:00 pm Wed. 1/21 at Elizabethtown 6:00 pm
Content represents the schedule available at press time.
Truvy, played by Vicki Schneider, works alongside her eager assistant Annelle, portrayed by Libby Hardesty.
The women welcome in wealthy widow and former first lady of the town Clairee, played by Lisa Lawmaster-Hess; curmudgeon Ouiser, portrayed by Robin Payne; loving mom M’Lynn, played by Becky Groff; and M’Lynn’s daughter, Shelby, portrayed by Libby Casey-Stauffer.
Shelby is in the midst of planning her wedding, and the women share wit, wisdom and heart as they chat during their appointments.
The show is set in the 1980s, which presented a bit of a challenge for Koslosky, she said.
“I’m almost an interpreter besides a director,” she said with a laugh, noting that she often had to explain time-period-specific references in the script. “There’s a lot of nostalgia in this show.”
Audiences may be familiar with the show from the Golden Globe-winning movie of the same name, which starred Sally Field, Dolly Parton and Julia Roberts, among others.
“One of the challenges of presenting a show like this is half the audience is going to want to see the movie on stage, and the other half will be expecting a play,” Koslosky said.
The play packs a powerful emotional punch, she said, noting, “It’s a very well-written play. It’s based on a true story, and that makes it all the more poignant.”
Assistant director Heather Strunk said audiences can expect to see six strong characters who come together
and support each other as the story takes place over many months.
“I think in all of its ups and downs, what I like about the show is it shows real people,” she said. “It’s six real women who are really strong, feisty women. They don’t all start out that way, but as a community of strong women, they build each other up.”
Courage and optimism run through the play, with the actors portraying characters audiences will connect with, she said.
“It’s a dynamic cast of six really incredible women who are playing the roles of six incredible women who are the epitome of love and friendship and care, all while being absolutely hilarious,” Strunk shared.
“If you want a good laugh, it’s your show. If you want a good cry, it’s your show. It runs the gamut, all held together by these six incredible characters.”
Ultimately, “Steel Magnolias” is about the power of female friendship.
“In the end, you walk away feeling proud of those women and what they’ve accomplished and how they have supported and lifted each other up, despite sadness,” Strunk said.
“They didn’t let the sadness define who they are. They’re too strong for that.”
“Steel Magnolias” will be performed at Susquehanna Stage, 133 W. Market St., Marietta, at 7:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, Dec. 12, 13, 19 and 20, as well as at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 18, and at 2 p.m. on Sundays, Dec. 14 and 21. For more information, visit www.susquehannastage.com.
Women’s Meeting To Feature Craft, Bible Study
Women of all ages and preschool children are invited to attend Neighbors Sharing and Caring (NSAC), a women’s ministry of the Chiques Church, 4045 Sunnyside Road, Manheim, on Tuesday, Dec. 16, from 9 to 10:45 a.m.
The day’s program was originally scheduled to take place on Dec. 2 but was rescheduled due to snow. As part of the program, participants may pick either a craft or a Bible study.
The craft will be a wire Christmas Nativity led by Paige Haldeman of Manheim. For this craft, participants will twist metal to create a unique piece of art that can be used as a Christmas decoration.
The Bible study will be “Growing Deep Roots in Winter” led by Christy Shenk, a member of Chiques Church. The Bible study will juxtapose strategies for getting the most enjoyment out of the winter season and practical approaches for enduring and even valuing times of spiritual testing.
During the program, child care will be provided for infants through prekindergartners. Readers may contact Bonnie at 717-361-2613 or Veronica at 717-626-7603 for more information and a copy of this year’s schedule.
Magicfrom pg 2
free shuttle bus will transport visitors to Christkindlmarkt beginning at 10:30 a.m. Christkindlmarkt is a cash-only event. An ATM is located on-site.
For more information, visit https://bit.ly/48FEWs0.
Donations Sought to Aid Homeless Students
The Mount Joy Area Chamber of Commerce is once again accepting gift card donations for students experiencing homelessness in the Donegal School District. This year, 36 students are currently identified under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act.
Gift cards should be in denominations of $5, $10 or $25 so they can be easily distributed among students. The Chamber encourages donors to support local Chamber member businesses when purchasing gift cards. A list of suggested businesses can be found at www .mountjoychamber.com.
Gift cards may be dropped off at the Chamber office by Monday, Dec. 15. Donors are asked to call 717-653-0773 or email info@mountjoychamber .com to confirm office hours.
Santa, Service and Stacks of Pancakes
BY CAT SHANNON
For almost 20 years, members of the Abraham C. Treichler Lodge 682 have held a Holiday Breakfast with Santa as a way to give back to the community. This year’s event will take place on Saturday, Dec. 13, from 7 to 11 a.m. in the Brossman Ballroom of the Freemasons Cultural Center, 1 Masonic Drive, Elizabethtown.
The meal will feature all-youcan-eat pancakes with a variety of toppings; sausage; and coffee, juice or water.
wishes with Santa Claus, who will arrive at 8 a.m.
This year’s breakfast will also feature three giveaway prizes - a vintage train set, a Blackstone grill and a gift basket - as well as a 50/50 giveaway. Proceeds from the breakfast will benefit the mission and outreach of the Lodge.
“The men make the food,” said Dennis O’Connor, current senior warden and past master of the Lodge. “It’s surprising how good men can cook when they’re put to the challenge to raise money for the community.”
He noted that the chefs set up six grills on the loading docks outside of the building, starting at 6 a.m. on the day of the breakfast.
It takes a village of volunteers to pull off the event, which has hosted more than 2,200 people in the past.
“I have roughly 130 volunteers, and they start setting up Friday evening,” O’Connor said. “Our volunteers range in age from 12 years old to men in their 80s.”
Members of Masonic youth groups, including DeMolay International and Job’s Daughters, also volunteer at the breakfast.
“As a Mason, our mission is to help those in need,” O’Connor said. “This is one of our biggest fundraisers. We’ve helped someone who was paralyzed get a chair to assist them in standing up. We’ve provided an accessory for someone to get in and out of their van. We donate to Masonic fraternal care. We help out with buying hospital equipment. We also provide three scholarships for Elizabethtown seniors.”
O’Connor encourages people to come to the breakfast and then head just up the road to an open house at the Masonic Village & Elizabethtown Model Railroad Club, located on the grounds of the village. The open house will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the 13th.
“This is our 19th year for this breakfast, and we’re always trying to think of ways to think outside the box and raise money that will go toward supporting people in our community,” O’Connor said. “Come on out and celebrate the holidays with us. Your donation helps others in the community, people who are less fortunate.”
Advent Penance Service Friday, December 12 7:00pm
Wednesday, December 24 4:00pm, 6:00pm
People who attend the breakfast will enjoy a delicious meal, O’Connor said, while children will have the opportunity to share their Christmas
Tickets are required to attend the breakfast and will be sold at the door. There is no charge for children age 5 and under.
Members of the Abraham C. Treichler Lodge 682 prepare a pancake breakfast.
ELDER CARE
ASSISTANCE FOR ELDERLY, caregivers provide hygiene assistance, meals, light housework in your home. Insured, Bonded, RN owned & operated. Call Visiting Angels, 717-393-3450.
FOR SALE
Bldg. Materials
ASPHALT MILLINGS AND CRUSHED CONCRETE FOR SALE. Call PAVWORX® at 610-929-9971 pavworx.com/millings.html
Collectibles
BUYING TOYS & COLLECTIBLES
www.DNRCollectibles.com
PA’s Largest Buyer of Toys & Collectibles 27 E Lancaster Street, Red Lion, PA Hours: M-W 8am-4pm, Th.-F by appt. 717-329-8167 • rhoward1771@gmail.com Toys Vintage or Modern, New or Used, Hess Trucks, Barbies, Diecast, Hot Wheels & Matchbox, Action Figures, Models, Trains, Sports Cards/Memorabilia, Movie/Music Memorabilia, Video Games & much more!
Furniture
SAUDER TWIN MATE'S BED WITH TWO INTERCHANGEABLE UNDER THE BED DRAWERS. USED ONLY 16 MONTHS. MATTRESS IS INCLUDED. IT WAS IN A PET/SMOKE FREE ENVIRONMENT.
$300 FIRM. FCFS, NO HOLDS. YOU PICK UP. ONLY SERIOUS INQUIRIES PLEASE. CONTACT 717-383-3484
Lawn & Garden
FREE REMOVAL of Riding Mowers. Call/text Jim 717-940-9029
Pets
ACA POODLE PUPPIES
RED and APRICOT TOY, shots, dewormed, 717-661-7947
CHIHUAHUA 9mo. old M tricolor
$900. White POODLE 6YO F $100. Free Brown Toy Poodle 8YO M. 717-687-8791
CHIHUAHUA PUPPIES. 2M, 2F, colorful litter must see! UTD vet checked. $825. Ready 12/13. 717-354-8550
CHRISTMAS PUPPIES. CUTE cuddly mini Aussiedoodles. Merles are black. Ready Dec 15. 717-283-9942
GOLDEN RETRIEVER PUPPIES
7F: $600 ea. 4M: $550 ea. UTD vet checked. Ready 12/19. 717-284-5104
GOLDEN RETRIEVER PUPPIES, ready 12/7. UTD vet checked. $350. 717-548-8947 ext. 3
ICCF CANE CORSO PUPPIES
UTD shots. 4F (ears cropped). Nice built pups! $2,395. 50% OFF until 12/20. Lic. #18916 | 717-654-1075
RED MINI POODLE PUPPIES
$500 registered. 1 Red mini Poodle puppy (no reg.) $250. 717-548-4277
Miscellaneous
BURGUNDY COLOR, 36” Coverage Ag Panel, Metal Roofing & Siding, Winter Special $2.00 L.F. $.67 SQ. FT. Made in Ephrata, PA. Email: sales@7174455222, 717-445-5222
Miscellaneous
DON’T LET THE stairs limit your mobility! Discover the ideal solution for anyone who struggles on the stairs, is concerned about a fall, or wants to regain access to their entire home. Call AmeriGlide today! 1-844317-5246.
PREPARE FOR POWER outages today with a GENERAC Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-855-465-7624 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move.
PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED AD ONLINE AT TOWNLIVELY.COM
FREE ITEMS
HAVE SOMETHING TO GIVE AWAY? Place a FREE Ad! Call 1-800-428-4211 15 word, private party ad for 1 week (some restrictions apply)
PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED AD ONLINE AT TOWNLIVELY.COM
NATIONAL
BATH & SHOWER updates in as little as 1 day! Affordable prices - No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & military discounts available. 1-877-543-9189.
CONSUMER CELLULAR - same reliable, nationwide coverage as large carriers. No long-term contract or hidden fees, free activation. All plans unlimited talk & text, starting at just $20/mo. Call 1-877-7510866.
DONATE YOUR CAR to Veterans Today! Help and Support our Veterans. Fast - FREE pick up. 100% tax deductible. Call 1-800245-0398.
HOME BREAK-INS TAKE less than 60 seconds. Don’t wait! Protect your family, home, assets now for as little as 70¢/day! 1-833-890-1262.
JACUZZI BATH REMODEL can install a new, custom bath or shower in as little as 1-day. Limited time, waiving all installation costs! Additional terms apply. Subject to change & vary by dealer. Ends 12/28/25 1-844-501-3208.
MOBILEHELP AMERICA'S PREMIER mobile medical alert system. Home or away. For safety & peace of mind. No long term contracts, free brochure! 1-888-4893936.
NO CLEANING GUTTERS guaranteed! LeafFilter - most advanced gutter protection, backed by no-clog guarantee & lifetime warranty. 1-833-610-1936 schedule free inspection & estimate. Get 75% off install & $250 bonus discount! Limited time. Restrictions apply, see rep for warranty & details.
PEACE OF MIND & early detection - Now more than ever, it’s important to screen for Stroke & Cardiovascular Disease risk. Life Line Screening is simple & painless. 1833-970-4172
PEST CONTROL: PROTECT your home from pests safely. Roaches, Bed Bugs, Rodents, Termite, Spiders & more. Locally owned & affordable. For service or inspection today!1-833-860-0657. Have zip code!
PORTABLE OXYGEN CONCENTRATOR may be covered by Medicare! Reclaim independence & mobility w/ the compact design & long-lasting battery. Inogen One free info kit! Call 1-877-305-1535
REACH MILLIONS OF homes nationwide with one easy, affordable buy in the ADS Network! For more info: www.communitypublishers.com/category/all-products
TOP DOLLAR PAID for old vintage guitars! Gibson, Fender, Martin, Gretsch, Rickenbacker, Epiphone, Etc. 1930s to 1980s. Call 1-866-433-8277
WE BUY HOUSES for cash as-is! No repairs or fuss. Any condition. Easy 3-step process: Call, get cash offer, get paid. Get your fair cash offer today. Liz Buys Houses: 1-844-877-5833.
WESLEY FINANCIAL GROUP, LLC timeshare cancellation experts. Over $50 million timeshare debt/fees cancelled in 2019. Free info package. Free consultations. Over 450 positive reviews. 1-833-308-1971.
PLACE
SEASONAL
COAL/WOOD/PELLET STOVES
& Inserts, New & Refurbished. Over 300 models in stock. $100-$800 & up. Buy/Sell/Trade. Call 717-577-6640
FIREWOOD
SPLIT, SEASONED, $80 a half cord, will deliver. Call David Reist, 717-475-6397
GREINER FARM: FIREWOOD Cut, split, seasoned, pick up or delivered, 717-629-9069
LOST & FOUND
FOUND AN ITEM? Place a FREE 15 word ad in your local issue to locate the owner of your found item. 1-800-428-4211
SERVICES RENDERED
DO YOU KNOW what’s in your water? Leaf Home Water Solutions offers FREE water testing and whole home water treatment systems that can be installed in as little as one day. 15% off your entire purchase. Plus 10% senior & military discounts. Restrictions apply. Schedule your FREE test today. Call 1-866-996-1526
Grandfather, Wall, & Mantel Clocks Cleaned, Oiled, Repaired. We Make House Calls! Free Pick-up & Delivery 717-454-7925
HAUL YOUR JUNK AWAY
Home, yard waste, appliances; Whatever! Also Shed Removal. 717-669-7854
HAULING, JUNK REMOVAL. Bsmts, sheds, garages cleaned out. Tree brush. Odd jobs. We also move people. Free est. Visa/MC/ Disc/AmEx. 717-456-6051; 410-688-7569 CRASS HAULING
INTERIOR PAINTING
Drywall Repairs. Lite Carpentry. Cabinets Painting. Call about our Winter discounts PA032157. Damien 717-940-5912
SERVICES RENDERED
ALLEGIANT TREE CARE Honest pricing w/25 yrs. exp.! Fully ins. Tree pruning/removal • Stump grinding. FREE ESTIMATES! Call: 717-598-9857
AMISH TRANSPORTATION
Meeting all needs. Transporting & Hauling. In state or out of state. : 610-373-9797
ANDY’S DRYWALL
Interior Remodeling, Hanging, Finishing, Framing, Painting, Basements, Additions, Insured. PA 022669. 717-587-4102
CLOCK REPAIR - TRAGER 717-786-7053
DECKS & PORCHES SUNROOMS • SCREENED ROOMS • ETC. 22 Years Exp. � 717-687-0899
DECKS/PATIOS • FENCING • SHED PADS LOT CLEARING • LEAF REMOVAL/ FALL CLEANUP • SNOW REMOVAL HARDSCAPING • LANDSCAPING Atglen, PA : 610-597-7342
JACUZZI BATH REMODEL can install a new, custom bath or shower in as little as one day. For a limited time, waiving ALL installation costs! Additional terms apply. Subject to change and vary by dealer. (Offer ends 12/31/25)Call 1-844-826-2535
JUNK REMOVAL
Basements, garages, attics. Appls. ($20). Five Star Property Service, 717-278-1030
MIKE’S JUNK REMOVAL
YOU NAME IT, WE DO IT! MJR LLC | Millersville 717-672-6483
NO MORE CLEANING out gutters. Guaranteed! LeafFilter is backed by a no-clog guarantee and lifetime transferrable warranty. Call today 1-855-791-1626 to schedule a FREE inspection and no obligation estimate. Get 15% off your entire order. Plus, Military & Seniors get a additional 10% off. Limited time only. Restrictions apply, see representative for warranty and offer details.
SAFE STEP NORTH America’s #1 Walk-In Tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-the-line installation and service. Now featuring our FREE shower package and $1,600 off for a limited time! Call today! Financing available. Call Safe Step: 1-833-356-1954.
Call Solanco Spouting & Exteriors Lic. & Insd. 717-824-2765
STUMP GRINDING
Free estimates. Insured. Call or text Mitzel’s Stump Grinding 717-858-9347
STUMP GRINDING/REMOVAL!
Top soil if desired. Reasonable pricing. FREE ESTIMATES! Call: 717-598-9857
TONE’S SOLID CONTRUCTION
Remodel • Basements • Additions Decks Fences, etc. We do it all! Insd./PA176621 | 717-984-3865
TRIPLE P PAINTING
Int/Ext. Res/Com, 35 yrs. exp. FREE ESTIMATES, Fully insured Eric, 717-615-6442 PA116089
PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED AD ONLINE AT TOWNLIVELY.COM
ITEMS WANTED
ALWAYS BUYING
Classic, Muscle & Sports Cars Jeff Gast, 717-575-4561
BUYING CLASSIC CARS, TRUCKS, SUVs **American and Foreign** Any Condition. Buying entire car collections. $$PAYING CA$H$$ Please call 717-5778206 KRMiller1965@yahoo.com
CORVETTES WANTED 1953 thru 2019 Jeff Gast, 717-575-4561
DONATE YOUR CAR, truck, boat, RV and more to support our veterans! Schedule a FAST, FREE vehicle pickup and receive a top tax deduction! Call Veteran Car Donations at 1-877-327-0686 today!
GET A BREAK on your taxes! Donate your car, truck, or SUV to assist the blind and visually impaired. Arrange a swift, no-cost vehicle pickup and secure a generous tax credit for 2025. Call Heritage for the Blind Today at 1-844-320-2804 today!
I BUY LIONEL, American Flyer, Marx Trains, Matchbox, Slot Cars, Hot Wheels, Tonka, Smith Miller, Model Toys, Lead Figures. Call 610-804-6783
PINBALL MACHINES WANTED. Any condition, working or not. Call Matt: 717-538-9485, thanks.
You're Invited
You're Invited
Advent's Journey of Hope
Experience the joyful Advent season of the coming of Christ by reflecting on the Gospels, meditating on the music, and experiencing the presence of Christ in the Blessed Sacrament. A perfect time for us to reflect on our journey as we welcome Christ into our hearts. Join us and Mark Forrest, Irish Tenor, for this evening of prayer.
Location: St. Peter Catholic Church 904 Mill Road, Elizabethtown, PA 17022
Date: Monday, December 15, 2025 Time: 7:00 PM
Contact: Parish office 717-367-1255
membership in the Lancaster County Beekeepers Society (LCBS) for 2026.
“This membership gives access to our monthly meetings featuring professional speakers, a members-only monthly newsletter and swag store and monthly hive checks where we gather to examine the LCBS hives and ask questions from our experienced hosts,” Fairfield explained. “Members can also use the club’s 15-frame radial extractor at no fee, sign up to be on our swarm collectors list and have access to a certified kitchen to bottle salable honey for a nominal fee.”
The New Beekeeper Workshop has been a popular public offering of the society for many years, Fairfield said, noting that early registration is recommended since space is limited and the workshop typically sells out.
Lancaster County Beekeepers Society is a member organization, but the group also focuses on public awareness and services.
“One of the key ways we do this is by providing education for aspiring beekeepers in order to promote and endorse safe, responsible and ethical beekeeping practices that protect the community and the environment,” Fairfield said.
The upcoming year is an important one for the club.
MICK BULLER & SON ROOFING
“This year we are particularly excited to be celebrating our 150th anniversary, making us the oldest known beekeeping club in the United States,” she commented.
“We have some special celebrations planned for 2026, so it’s a great year to be a part of the organization.”
Community members can also support the efforts of the group by contacting the club to safely remove a swarm of bees or by sponsoring the society’s upcoming celebrations.
Aronson Charles E. Groff & Sons, Inc. 1284 Cloverleaf Rd., Mount Joy, PA 17552 717.653.1357 • cegmovers.com
(717) 947-4284
“If you aren’t quite ready to start your own hive, please consider joining LCBS,” Fairfield said. “You don’t have to be a beekeeper to be a member, and this is a great way to learn a lot about honey bees and beekeeping and gain hands-on experience with the club hives. You can also follow us on Facebook at ‘Lancaster County Beekeepers Society’ and Instagram at @Lancaster Beekeepers for fun, educational content and to learn about our activities.”
To register for the workshop, visit www.lancasterbeekeepers .org/workshop. Email workshop@ lancasterbeekeepers.org for more information.
Members of the Lancaster County Beekeepers Society check on their hives.
Lancaster County Beekeepers Society member Jordan Shenk volunteers at a community farm show stand.