Community Invited To Celebrate Christmas in Christiana
BY FRANCINE FULTON
This year’s Christmas in Christiana celebration, presented by the Christiana Lions Club, will take place on Saturday, Dec. 13. A host of activities will take place at the William P. Brinton House, 17 Green St., headquarters of the Christiana Historical Society (CHS), and at the Christiana Freight Station, 10 Railroad Ave., home of the Lancaster Chapter of the National Railway Historical Society. Events will also take place at community organizations throughout the borough.
Santa Claus will be on hand at the freight station from 3 to 5 p.m. Children age 12 and under are invited to attend accompanied by
a parent or guardian. Children will receive a hot dog dinner and a photo with Santa. There will also be hayrides and refreshments.
Mini train rides will be available from the Brinton House to the freight station, which will be open for touring. Visitors will be able to tour a retired Conrail caboose, enjoy a 10-by-30-foot model train layout and learn about the railroad history in Christiana through a display of photos and other artifacts. The freight station will also hold an open house on Sunday, Dec. 14, from 1 to 4 p.m. Christmas at the Brinton House will be celebrated from 3 to 8 p.m., where guests may enjoy complimentary refreshments. “We will have salty snacks like pretzels, trail mix and popcorn, plus coffee
See Christmas pg 2
BY FRANCINE FULTON
“We started in 2019. This will be our seventh time placing wreaths,” noted Paula Diem, when describing the annual Wreaths Across America program during which volunteers place wreaths at the graves of veterans to remember and honor those who served in the military. “We started with 1,250 wreaths. This year, we will be
placing over 3,000 wreaths in 30 cemeteries. It is such a labor of love. I feel so blessed that our community loves our veterans and wants to do this.”
This year’s National Wreaths Across America Day will be observed on Saturday, Dec. 13. Locally, the program will begin with a ceremony at noon at the Pequea Valley Secondary School, 4033 E. Newport Road, Kinzers.
The Christiana Singers performed at last year’s Christmas celebration on the porch of the Brinton House.
Paula Diem (left photo) unpacks wreaths at the Gap Fire Company before they are placed on the graves of veterans at local cemeteries (right photo).
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and hot chocolate,” said CHS member Patti Shrom of Gap. “They will have a variety of sweet snacks and baked goods at the freight station.” Live music by the Englerths and the Christiana Singers will be featured on the porch of the Brinton House from 4 to 7:30 p.m. CHS has been renovating the Brinton House since it acquired the building in April of 2022. Local residents will get a peek inside the house on Dec. 13. “The front two rooms will be open,” said Shrom. “Coffee will be available in one, and the other will be decorated for Christmas.”
Also at the Brinton House, guests will be able to ring a railroad bell next to the porch for a donation, with proceeds to benefit the ongoing restoration of the building. A bonfire will be tended throughout the evening by members of Boy Scout Troop 20.
The Christiana Fire Company will escort Santa Claus through Christiana and the surrounding area
from 6 to 8 p.m. Santa will be portrayed by Jeff Rowe, president of the Lions Club. His wife, Denise, will portray Mrs. Claus. As they ride through the area, firefighters will collect nonperishable food items for the Octorara Area Food Cupboard.
Suggested donations included canned fruit and vegetables, boxed potatoes, peanut butter, boxed pasta and rice and meaty soups. Donations will also be accepted from 3 to 8 p.m. at Christiana Borough Hall, 10 W. Slokom Ave.
Also offered on Dec. 13 from 3 to 8 p.m. will be guided tours of the Underground Railroad Center at Zercher’s Hotel, 11 Green St. Darlene Colón, CHS president, will offer the tours.
A “Light Up Christiana” lighting and decoration contest will be presented by the Christiana Lions Club. Judging of homes will begin at 6:15 p.m., and cash prizes will be awarded for the winners in the categories of Santa’s Choice,
Up-Town and Down-Town. There will also be three honorable mention prizes. Homes will be judged on amount of effort, curb appeal, use of luminarias and creativity.
The Lions Club is also sponsoring a sale of luminarias. There will be a fee for a set of five luminarias. The order deadline is Wednesday, Dec. 10. Payments can be dropped off in the front door slot at Shivery Funeral Home, 111 Elizabeth St., Christiana. Orders will be delivered on the morning of Dec. 13. All proceeds from the sale of luminarias will help support the Lions Club’s activities throughout the year, such as maintaining the park and supporting programs for the visually impaired.
In addition, Moores Memorial Library, 9 W. Slokom Ave, Christiana, will
provide free refreshments from 6 to 8 p.m., and New Beginnings Church of the Cross, 1 Penn Ave., Christiana, will present a live Nativity from 6 to 8 p.m. The Borough of Christiana is also holding a gingerbread house competition. Members of the public may vote for their favorite on Dec. 13 from 3 to 8 p.m. at Christiana Borough Hall. Christiana United Methodist Church, 14 S. Bridge St., will be open from 6 to 8 p.m. Visitors will enjoy music by organist Robert Trimble and be able to meet pastor Trevor Webster. Refreshments will be provided.
For more information about events, visit www .christianahistoricalsociety .com/events or www.face book.com/christiana historicalsociety. Free parking will be available at the Brinton House.
Two rooms of the Brinton House will be open and decorated for the season. Photo by Francine Fulton
Mini train rides will be available from the Christiana Freight Station to the William P. Brinton House.
Christmas Traditions
Submitted by Leona Baker, Historical Society of Salisbury Township
It is December. And while Christmas glitter and gloss have been with us for some time, many of us who are not Amish wonder how this very conservative branch of Christianity celebrates the holiday.
It is important to remember that Amish traditions vary from family to family and community to community. But for all sects, Christmas is the year’s most important and festive holiday. Some groups may dedicate Dec. 25 to fasting and prayer. Others may also celebrate a “second Christmas” on Dec. 26. Others observe “Old Christmas” on Jan. 6, the Epiphany, which commemorates the visit of the Magi. This day may also be dedicated to rest, prayer and fasting. No matter the style of celebration in any Plain community, once the daily chores are completed, this is the holiday to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. The day is spent relaxing and enjoying each other’s company, eating a festive supper with extended family and perhaps a hymn sing later in the evening.
The church service is not on Christmas Day, but on
the Sunday before or after the 25th. Christmas Day celebrations focus on God and the family. This may surprise those of us who, even if we don’t attend church regularly, make sure to go on Christmas and Easter. Amish church services are held in people’s homes. Preparations are made days, even weeks in advance. The house, barn and grounds are cleaned and tidied, fand food is prepared for as many as a hundred worshipers.
While there are no Christmas trees, Santa Claus, tinsel or bells, the Amish in Lancaster County are influenced by German Christmas traditions. Decorations may include greenery, holiday cards, hanging stars and candles placed throughout the home, and of course, special Christmas cookies. Many adults and children make stamped Christmas cards to give to their friends.
Some communities hold annual programs at their one-room schoolhouse on the last day of school before Christmas. Children have an opportunity to show off their recitation and singing skills. In some schools, the children may exchange gifts after first drawing a name out of a hat. Families supply
snacks and cider. Gifts are usually writing paper, needlepoint kits, chalk or something practical. Each child will receive something, and the gift may have been handmade.
In the Historical Society of Salisbury Township’s book “How They Learned Their ABCs,” one tale is about a boy who carefully carved a face out of a potato as his offering. Unfortunately, the girl to whom he gave his carving did not appreciate the gesture!
But within the Amish home, gift giving is minimal. Perhaps the children will receive useful items like ice skates or knitting supplies from their parents. Relatives might give younger children small gifts. But adults rarely exchange gifts. The emphasis is on God, Jesus, and the family … in that order.
Some material for this article was gathered from www.DiscoverLancaster .com and the Amish Country News. While these offered good information, this is a good time to reach out to your Amish neighbors and share homemade cookies and stories of how each of your families celebrate this most exciting time of the year.
2025-2026 SCHOOL TAXES PEQUEA VALLEY SCHOOL DISTRICT
Pequea Valley School District Real Estate Taxes were mailed to all property owners in July 2025. The Penalty payment period will end December 31, 2025 and all delinquent payments will then be turned over to the Lancaster County Tax Claim Bureau. If you have not received your tax bill, please call Lancaster County Tax Collection Bureau at 717-569-4521 - Option 4. Failure to receive a tax bill does not relieve your responsibility to pay taxes.
1257 Horseshoe Pike, Downingtown, PA 19335
VITA Program Seeks Volunteers
The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program is seeking volunteers. VITA provides free tax preparation services for low- and moderate-income households.
Volunteers are needed to serve as greeters and tax preparers at multiple locations, as well as data entry starters at the Coatesville location. The hours are flexible. No experience is necessary, and free training is provided. For more information or to volunteer, visit www .vitafreetaxhelp.org or call 610-380-9099.
Winners of School Bus Driver Safety Competition Announced
Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP), and school bus safety advocates recently honored three school bus drivers for their superior driving skills during a ceremony at the State Museum of Pennsylvania.
During the ceremony,
officials spoke to the critical role that school bus drivers play, transporting more than 1.4 million students across Pennsylvania daily. Officials also recognized the winners of the 46th State School Bus Driver Safety Competition that was held in June at Bald Eagle Area High School in Bellefonte. More than 50 drivers were judged based on their performance on a written
exam and a practical driving skills test on a closed course.
The winners in the conventional bus category this year were JoAnne Cowan with Krapf School Bus in Chester County, first place; Angie Martin with Brightbill Transport in Lancaster County, second place; and Patricia Carey with Krapf School Bus in Chester County, third place.
Community Calendar
Dec. 10. Narcotics Anonymous
IMPACT Church
101 E. First Ave., Parkesburg, 5 p.m.
Dec. 12. Parents’ Night Out
Parkesburg Free Library
105 West St., Parkesburg, 6 to 9:30 p.m. Parents may drop off their children - ages 3 to 10 - at the library while they catch up on last-minute holiday tasks. Children are invited to wear their favorite pajamas. There will be a fee per child. Stop at the library to reserve a spot.
Dec. 12 and 13. Live Nativity
IMPACT Church, Parkesburg, 6 to 8 p.m. The live Nativity will be presented in a drive-through format. Actors will portray scenes from Christ’s birth to His death and resurrection. www.facebook.com/impactchurchparkesburg/events.
Dec. 13 and 14. Ten Thousand Villages Gift Shop
Oxford Presbyterian Church
6 Pine St., Oxford, 10 a.m. to noon. Items offered for sale will include handmade jewelry, seasonal decorations, ornaments and pottery. Call the church at 610-932-9640 for more information.
Dec. 14. Church Services
Safe Harbor Baptist Church
478 Daleville Road, Cochranville. Sunday school is held at 10 a.m. followed by Sunday services at 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. The service features the King James Version of the Bible and traditional hymns. A Wednesday night prayer and Bible study is offered at 7 p.m. www.safeharborcochranville.org
Dec. 13. Kids’ Christmas Event
Limeville Church
5783 Limeville Road, Gap, 3 to 5 p.m. Children are invited to visit with Santa, hear the Christmas story, make crafts and enjoy cookies and hot chocolate. There will be a Christmas tree lighting at 4:45 p.m. www.limevilechurch.org
Feb. 20 and 21, 2026. Octorara Invitational
Indoor Wiffle Ball Tournament
Octorara Junior-Senior High School 226 Highland Road, Atglen. Registration for the 16th annual event is underway. The tournament is open to male and female players from fourth grade to adult, who will participate in various age divisions, A fee will be charged per team. Proceeds will benefit the Octorara baseball program. To register and for more information, visit www .octorarabaseball.com/ wiffle-ball-tourney-reg.
The Community Calendar is a weekly feature of the Community Courier. Submit your meeting or event for consideration in writing at least two weeks prior to the event. Email submissions to ffulton@engleonline.com. For more information, call 800800-1833, ext. 6018.
Railroad Museum Posts Photography Class
The Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, 300 Gap Road, Strasburg, will offer a Railroad Photography class, led by noted railroad photographer and author Brian Solomon, on Saturday, Dec. 13, from 9 to 11 a.m.
The class will have a “traveling during the holidays” theme and will coincide with the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania’s Home for the Holidays annual event. Attendees should bring a smartphone, digital camera, or film camera to take photos of the historic locomotives and railroad cars, including some equipment interiors, during the session. The museum will be decorated for the holidays.
Solomon earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in photographic illustration from the Rochester Institute of Technology. He produces a daily blog about railroad photography, and his articles and photography have appeared in many railway magazines. He was presented with the Railway
& Locomotive Historical Society’s Fred A. & Jane R. Stindt Photography Award in 2020 for his lifetime achievements in railroad photography.
Solomon is the author of more than 70 books and writes a monthly travel column and feature articles for Firecrown Media’s Trains Magazine. He is the marketing manager of New Hampshire’s Conway Scenic Railroad. Copies of many of his books are available for purchase in the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania’s Whistle Stop Shop museum store.
The class size is limited, and there is a fee. To register, visit www.eventbrite.com.
The Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania is home to a collection of about 100 historic locomotives and railroad cars, a research library and archives, a working restoration shop, an immersive education center, and a museum store. For more information, visit www .rrmuseumpa.org or call 717-687-8628.
PennDOT Provides Tips for Wintry Weather
Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) recently offered ways the public can prepare for the winter season. Members of the public can access travel information on nearly 40,000 state-maintained
roadway miles year-round at www.511PA.com, and during the winter, they can find plow-truck locations and details of when state-maintained roadways were last plowed. The information is provided via PennDOT’s
SINGING SPRING FOODS
Automated Vehicle Location technology, which uses units in the department-owned and rented plow trucks to send a cellular signal showing a truck’s location.
To help the public prepare for the season and
Grocery Aisle
share information about winter services, PennDOT offers operational information and traveler resources at www.pa.gov /agencies/penndot/ traveling-in-pa/winter. The site also has a complete winter guide with detailed information about winter services in each of PennDOT’s 11 engineering districts. Motorists should prepare for potential wintry weather by ensuring they have supplies in their cars before heading out, including food, water, blankets, extra gloves and hats, a cellphone charger, hand or foot warmers, a windshield brush and scraper, and any specialized items like medications or baby and pet supplies. If motorists encounter snow- or ice-covered roads, they should slow down, increase their following distance, and avoid distractions.
Local Author Receives National Award
The National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) recently awarded local author Bruce Mowday a DAR America250! Commendation for his efforts in raising awareness about Revolutionary patriots and America’s 250th anniversary.
I host live “Moving On: Downsizing to Right-Sizing” seminars for seniors, and most recent attendees said they learned about the event through my ad in the Merchandiser. It outperformed all my other advertising efforts—postcards, social media, and other newspapers—proving how effective local print advertising can be in reaching my target audience. This is a valuable and effective local publication for connecting with readers for the audience I was seeking.
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Diem, who is the location coordinator for the local program, will lead the ceremony, which will be held indoors and is free and open to the community. “I will talk about Wreaths Across America and the meaning of the day,” she said, noting that there will be special wreaths presented to local veterans and community members representing the branches of the military. “We will present eight wreaths on behalf of the Army, Marines, Air Force, Navy, Space Force, Merchant Marines, Coast Guard and the POW/MIAs.”
Following the ceremony, the special wreaths will be transported to the Gap VFW by auxiliary member Dick Martin. The eight wreaths will be displayed on the front lawn of the building.
The wreaths that will be placed at cemeteries in the Pequea Valley and Octorara areas will arrive at the Gap Fire Company on Thursday, Dec. 11. “A Tyson Food truck brings our wreaths to Gap, and then students from Pequea Valley unload the truck with their adviser,” Diem explained. “For some students, this is their fifth year to do it. These kids started in eighth grade. This group (of students) is special to me.”
Once the boxes are unloaded from the truck, they are organized inside the fire company. “On Saturday morning at 8 a.m., the local fire companies come to the Gap Fire Hall, and they take the boxes of wreaths and deliver them to our cemeteries,” noted Diem.
Volunteers, including members of Boy Scout troops from Parkesburg and Paradise, will lay the wreaths on the graves that are marked as veterans
either with a flag or plaque.
“At each grave, while laying the wreath, we are to say the veteran’s name, branch of service and thank them for their service,” Diem said, noting this tradition is practiced nationwide at all Wreaths Across America events.
The wreaths are purchased through fundraising efforts and with donations from local businesses and individuals. “Each wreath is $17, so (we need) over $50,000,” noted Diem. “We have two bingos a year, a golf outing, plus our craft show. We also sell candles.”
Diem said that the Wreaths Across America tradition continues each holiday season no matter the conditions. “We have been in the rain and 30-mile-an-hour winds and 20-degree weather, and one year we had to dig out snow to place wreaths,” she said. “But our veterans did things in zero degrees and 140-degree weather. It’s only an hour of our time, and it was their way of life.”
Those who would like to help place wreaths on Dec. 13 should contact Diem at 717-587-1315 or register at www.wreathsacross america.org/papqvc. Volunteers are also needed to remove the wreaths on Saturday, Jan. 31, 2026.
“From the time we start on Thursday to the day we pick up the wreaths after they have been on the grave for approximately six weeks, there are over 300 volunteers,” Diem added. “We can’t do it without them.”
For more information about the local program, visit the previously mentioned website or search for “Wreaths Across America Pequea Valley Cemeteries” on Facebook.
Dog Rescue Sets Open House
Delaware Valley Golden Retriever Rescue (DVGRR) will hold its monthly open house from 10 a.m. to noon at its Golden Gateway facility, 60 Vera Cruz Road, Reinholds, on Saturday, Dec. 13. The public is invited to meet the golden retrievers and other dogs that are available for adoption. Admission is free. Staff
members will be on hand to answer questions, and food will be available for purchase. Photos are not permitted, and attendees should not bring other dogs to this event. For more information, contact info@dvgrr.org or 717-484-4799 or visit https://dvgrr.org/adopt/ monthlyopenhouse/.
Linda Mitchell lays a wreath at Upper Octorara Cemetery in Parkesburg.
Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful Holds Annual Conference
Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful (KPB) marked 35 years of impact at its annual conference held in October in State College. The event drew environmental leaders, volunteers, educators, and policy makers from across the commonwealth.
The two-day event, themed “35 Years of Stewardship, Sustainability, and Environmental Education,” featured workshops and community engagement sessions focused on solar energy, secondhand markets and recycling, programming and education that encourages waste minimization and inspires the next generation, leveraging corporate partnerships to advance a mission, and more.
Highlights from the conference included a keynote address by Lara Fowler, Penn State Dickinson Law, emphasizing the power of community in fostering local resilience and economic well-being; youth engagement with four KPB Young Ambassadors representing Erie, Pike, and Chester counties bringing fresh perspectives and energy to the event; and a “Shark Tank”style competition in which KPB affiliates showcased their most innovative and impactful community improvement ideas. The competition was hosted by Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection secretary Jessica Shirley, and Scranton Tomorrow took home the $3,500 grant to expand its collaboration with Marywood STARS, an afterschool mentoring program for junior and senior high school students that aims
to cultivate knowledge in native sustainable horticulture, foster civic engagement, and instill community pride. The program will culminate in a student-designed landscape planting at the Scranton Courthouse.
The conference was sponsored in part by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. Other sponsors include Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau, Centre County Recycling and Refuse Authority, Hershey, Republic Services, Foundation for Pennsylvania Watersheds, The GIANT Company, Goodwill Keystone, and The Hartman Group.
For more information about Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful and its upcoming initiatives, visit www .keeppabeautiful.org.
ENCOUNTER CHURCH: 300 Hideaway Drive, Quarryville, PA 17566 Sunday Service & Kid's Church held at 8:30 am and 10:45 am. Church e-mail: office@encounterchurchpa.org www.encounterchuchpa.org Church phone: 717-786-2756
FAITH BIBLE CHAPEL: “Ordinary People Serving An Extraordinary God.” Sunday Worship 9:30 a.m. (Children’s Service during Pastor’s Message). Wednesday Prayer Meeting at 6:30 p.m. We are located at 140 Bernard Ave., Cochranville. Pastor Scott Althouse 610-593-6333 fbchapel@zoominternet.net
GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH: Dedicated to the serious preaching & teaching of God’s Word. Traditional hymns & praise songs accompanied by guitar. Sunday Service 10:40am. 53 Hurley Rd, Parkesburg, PA 19365. 610-593-7123. www. gracecommunitychurch-parkesburg.com for messages, ministries and directions
HIGHLAND BAPTIST CHURCH: 1 EAST HIGHLAND RD., PARKESBURG PA 19365 610-857-1670 www.highland-bc.org
Sunday Services: Sunday School for all ages 9:30 am, Morning Service 10:45 am (nursery is available), Prayer Service 4 pm Wednesday Youth programs 6:30-8:00 pm. Thursday Ladies Bible Study 10:00 am
IMPACT CHURCH: IMPACTING lives with the Hope of Jesus Christ. Sunday Gatherings at 9 am & 10:30 am. 101 East 1st Ave., Parkesburg. Pastor Mike Bailey. 610-857-3887. Visit us online at WWW.IMPACTPA.CHURCH
LITTLE BRITAIN PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
255 Little Britain Church Rd., Peach Bottom (between 222 and 272). Sunday School Classes all ages 9:15 a.m. Worship Service 10:30 a.m. Youth Groups for Elementary, Jr. High and Sr. High, Choir, Bell Choir, Small Groups. Rev. Thomas Milligan, 717-548-2266. Web site: www.littlebritainchurch.org E-mail: lbpc1732@gmail.com
MANOR PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (PCA) “Come find spiritual life in Christ for your family.” Cochranville: Rte. 926, halfway between Rte. 41 & Rte. 10. Rev. Daniel Henderson, Pastor. Sunday School for all ages at 9:30 am. Fellowship & Refreshments from 10:15-10:35 am. Worship with classes for infantsPre-K at 10:45 am Kidsworship for K5th is held during the sermon time. Youth Group for 6th-12th grades twice a month at 6:30 pm 610-869-2402. www.manorpresbyterian.com
MAPLE GROVE MENNONITE CHURCH: 549 Swan Rd., Atglen. 610-593-6658, Lead Pastor: Mike Clemmer, Music Minister: Matt Chambers. Sunday School 9am, Sunday Worship 10am, Children’s Church, Nursery. Youth Group Wed., 7pm. Christian Preschool. Visit us online at: www.maplegrovemc.com
MIDDLE OCTORARA PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH: 1199 Valley Road Quarryville. Sunday Services: Sunday School 9 AM; Blended Worship 10:30 AM. 717-786-3402 Visit us online at www.middleoctorara.org
MT. VERNON CHRISTIAN CHURCH: Growing Deeper, Reaching Farther. 1 Lighthouse Dr, Kirkwood. Pastor Tony Murrin. Sunday School- all ages 9am, Worship 10:00am. Handicap Access. Phone: 717-529-4102. Visit us online at mtvernonchristianchurch.com
PARKESBURG BAPTIST CHURCH: 103 West St., Parkesburg; 610-857-9135 Sunday service 10:30 AM Rev. Dr. Mark Stauffer pbc103west@gmail.com
PARKESBURG WORD OF FAITH CHURCH
Sunday Service 10 am & Wednesday prayer at 7:30 pm - at 501 Lenover Rd., Parkesburg, PA 19365. Call 610-593-2277 www.parkesburgwordoffaith.org
ST. CHRISTOPHER’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH
Where everyone can find a place to belong! 116 Lancaster Pike, Oxford. Sunday Holy Communion Services at 8:00 & 10:00 AM; 10:00 AM also live-streamed. When people warmly welcome you, you will know you have found a church home where you can come just as you are. The Episcopal Church is Catholic in the way we worship and Protestant in the way we think. You’ll find beautiful music, good preaching, and an inclusive community in which to worship God. YOU BELONG HERE! Check out St. Christopher’s website, YouTube, or Facebook for updates and links. Rev. Dr. Mary Ann Mertz rector@stchrisoxford.org 610-932-8134 www.stchrisoxford.org
UPPER OCTORARA PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (EPC): 1121 Octorara Trail (on Rt. 10 a mile south of Rt. 30), Parkesburg. Christ-centered, Handicapped accessible. Sunday School all ages 9:30 am (Sept-May). Sunday Worship (Blended style) 10:30 am. Youth Group & a variety of adult groups. Dana J. Smith, Pastor. (610)857-5787 www.uopc-epc.org Find us on Facebook. Christian Preschool: (610)857-0236
Law Firm Welcomes New Attorney
Unruh Turner Burke & Frees recently announced that attorney Robert C. Jefferson IV has joined the firm. Jefferson’s practice is concentrated on municipal and governmental law, land use, land development and zoning. The announcement was made by Andrew D.H. Rau, partner and member of the firm’s executive committee.
Jefferson previously served as an assistant district attorney in Chester County, where he gained extensive courtroom experience and developed a strategic approach to complex legal matters. He now represents municipalities, developers, and property owners before zoning boards, planning commissions and other municipal authorities.
Beyond his legal practice, Jefferson remains involved in community service and education. He has mentored students in the West Chester Area School District, served on the board of trustees for People’s Light theater and previously supervised the Certified Legal Internship Program at the Chester County District Attorney’s Office. Jefferson has also contributed to organizations such as the Chester County Fund for Women and Girls and
the Crime Victims’ Center of Chester County.
Jefferson has been recognized for his professional excellence by Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch, Super Lawyers Rising Stars, and several regional publications. In 2021, he was appointed to the Pennsylvania Bar Association’s House of Delegates.
Jefferson earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Pittsburgh School of Law and his Bachelor of Arts in finance, cum laude, from the University of Pittsburgh. He is admitted to practice before the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania and is a member of the Chester County Bar Association and Pennsylvania Bar Association.
NOTICE of PUBLIC SALE
Unit #103H stored by: Jessica March
Unit #131H stored by: Tara Pratt
Unit #104H stored by: Teresa Villacana Unit #073H stored by: Jennifer Hatton
Intercourse Self Storage, LLC Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2025
2 Heritage Drive At the conclusion of 10 a.m. Gordonville, PA 17529 auction listed above 717-442-0505
Intercourse Self Storage, in order to satisfy its statutory lien pursuant to 73 P.S.
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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
DENTAL INSURANCE FROM Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 400 plus procedures. Real dental insurance - NOT just a discount plan. Do not wait! Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details!1-877-5531891www.dental50plus.com/macnet#6258
DIRECTV OVER INTERNET - Get your favorite live TV, sports and local channels. 99% signal reliability! CHOICE Package, $84.99/mo. for 12 months. HBO Max and Premium Channels included for 3 mos. (w/CHOICE Package or higher.) No annual contract, no hidden fees! Some restrictions apply. Call IVS 1-866-629-6086
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.
Miscellaneous
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)
SEARCH OUR CLASSIFIEDS online at townlively.com
GARAGE SALES
NOTICE: It is recommended that you begin your garage or yard sale ad with the town, then street address, dates & times.
NATIONAL
BECOME A PUBLISHED author. We want to read your book! Dorrance Publishing trusted since 1920. Consultation, production, promotion & distribution. Free author’s guide1-877-729-4998 or dorranceinfo.com/ads.
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.
DENTAL INSURANCE FROM Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. 400+ procedures. Real dental insurance - not a discount plan. Free info kit! 1-855-526-1060 www.dental50plus.com/ads#6258
DIRECTV STREAM - Carries the most local MLB Games! Choice Pkg $89.99/mo. for 12 mos. Stream on 20 devices. HBO Max included for 3 mos. w/Choice Package or higher. No contract or hidden fees! Restrictions apply. Call IVS 1-866-859-0405.
NATIONAL
REACH MILLIONS OF homes nationwide with one easy, affordable buy in the ADS Network! For more info: www.communitypublishers.com/category/all-products
WATER DAMAGE CLEANUP & restoration. A small amount of water can lead to major damage in your home. Our trusted professionals do repairs to protect your family & home value! 1-833-887-0117. Have zip code ready!
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 YOUR CLASSIFIED AD ONLINE AT TOWNLIVELY.COM
DRYWALL REPAIRS, Painting & Carpentry. Call Ed 484-639-1613
EXCAVATING SERVICES MILLSTREAM LANDSCAPES PROFESSIONAL SITEWORK, SAND MOUNDS & SEWER SYSTEMS, FOOTERS & CRAWL SPACES, STORM WATER MANAGEMENT, AND DEMO PROJECTS. FAMILY-OWNED, PREMIUM QUALITY. (717) 768-8288
MILLSTREAMLANDSCAPES.COM 304 TWIN SPRINGS CT, NEW HOLLAND, PA 17557
Grandfather, Wall, & Mantel Clocks Cleaned, Oiled, Repaired. We Make House Calls! Free Pick-up & Delivery 717-454-7925
SEASONAL
Tel Hai Retirement Community Hertzler Bldg. ~ 1200 Tel Hai Circle ~ Off Beaver Dam Road in Honey Brook Appliances, Furniture, Jewelry, Home Decor, Crystal, Housewares, China, Collectables. Proceeds benefit the Tel Hai Care Assurance Fund For directions visit www.telhai.org RESALE
NATIONAL
1-877-543-9189.
DON'T LET THE stairs limit your mobility! Discover the solution for anyone who struggles on the stairs, is concerned about a fall or wants to regain access to their entire home. AmeriGlide 1-833-399-3595.
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.
INFLATION AT 40-YEAR highs. Interest rates are up. Credit cards. medical bills. car loans. Have $10k+ in debt? Call National Debt Relief and find out how to pay off your debt for much less than you owe! Free quote: Call 1-844-955-4930.
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
PREPARE FOR POWER outages todayGenerac Home Standby Generator. Receive free 5-Year warranty w/ qualifying purchase. Call 1-855-948-6176 to schedule free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move.
PROFESSIONAL LAWN SERVICE: Fertilization, weed control, seeding, aeration & mosquito control. Free quote. Ask about first application special! 1-833-860-0811
REPLACE YOUR ROOF w/the best looking & longest lasting material steel from Erie Metal Roofs! 3 styles/multiple colors available. Guaranteed to last a lifetime! Limited time offer up to 50% off install + additional 10% off install military, health & 1st responders. 1-833-370-1234.
COAL/WOOD/PELLET STOVES & Inserts, New & Refurbished. Over 300 models in stock. $100-$800 & up. Buy/Sell/Trade. Call 717-577-6640
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 READ YOUR AD THE FIRST
SERVICES RENDERED
AERATING & OVERSEEDING LANDSCAPING DESIGN INSTALLATION/MAINTENANCE
Mulching • Tree/Shrub Planting/Trimming Stump Grinding • Seeding • Excavation FREE ESTIMATES • FULLY INSURED Rosslawnservice.com 717-468-3632
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 BOOT ROAD TREE SERVICE Expert tree removal, stump grinding & Trimming.
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
LOGGING, TREE WORK, AND FIREWOOD 717-925-9032
MAST SEAMLESS GUTTER Gutter • Downspouts • Guard 41 yrs. exp. | lic./ins. 717-548-3797
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.
PAINTING DONE RIGHT Int/Ext. Res/Com Detailed custom painting. 33yrs. exp/Refs. All related services, etc. 717-286-5464
ROOFING ~ Amish Quality 10 yr. workmanship warranty. Lic. & Ins. EDGE VIEW ROOFING, 717-940-0501
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.
SEAMLESS GUTTERS, ROOFING, SOFFIT, FASCIA, GUTTER GUARDS Call Solanco Spouting & Exteriors Lic. & Insd. 717-824-2765
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! GUITARS & INSTRUMENTS WANTED “LOCAL” Collector Buying Gibson, Fender, Martin & Other Brands All Types, Makes & Years Considered Top Cash Paid! 610-363-2802 I BUY LIONEL, American Flyer, Marx Trains, Matchbox, Slot Cars, Hot Wheels, Tonka, Smith Miller, Model Toys, Lead Figures. Call 610-804-6783
WANTED! MOTORCYCLES & MINI BIKES! ANTIQUE AND CLASSIC. Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, Yamaha, Triumph, BSA, and other foreign models.
Fun in the Sun WELLNESS EXPO
Church To Present Live Nativity
The event will depict scenes from Christ’s life from birth through resurrection.
IMPACT Church, located at 101 E. First Ave., Parkesburg, will present a live drive-through Nativity on Friday and Saturday, Dec. 12 and Dec. 13, from 6 to 8 p.m. Attendees will be able to stay in their cars and listen to audio provided
by the church that will narrate through the Gospel of Jesus Christ from birth to death and resurrection. Actors from the church will portray the characters in the various scenes.
The event is free and open to the community.
For more information, visit www.impactpa.church or www.facebook.com/ impactchurchparkesburg. Those with questions may call 610-857-3887, email office@impactpa.church or contact the church via its Facebook page.
