Historical Society Will Host Candlelight Christmas
Paloma Students Will Dance Their Way Into Holiday Hearts
BY JEFF FALK
BY GEORGE DEIBEL
Wagons and wassail. They will be just two of the highlights of the Conestoga Area Historical Society’s annual Candlelight Christmas.
The event will be held Saturday, Dec. 13, from 5 to 9 p.m. at the historical society, 51 Kendig Road, Conestoga.
There is no admission fee, but donations will be appreciated, museum vice president Jim Kauffman said.
There will be pottery demonstrations by juried potter Bob Hughes, who travels the Eastern Seaboard plying his trade. Karen Hurd will teach attendees about tinsmithing. There
will also be spinning by Linda Funk, blacksmithing by Dave Kauffman and Frank Gillespie, wool dyeing by
MAHS To Host Program on General Custer
The Millersville Area Historical Society (MAHS) will host a presentation titled “From Pennsylvania to Custer’s Last Stand and Back” when it meets at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 13, in the Millersville Borough Administration & Police Building, 100 Municipal Drive. Doors will open at 8:30 a.m. and close at 9:15 a.m.
The speaker will be longtime “Custeriana” student Steve Custer, whose grandfather and General
Steve will discuss the many connections between Pennsylvania and General Custer, including some in Lancaster, as well as connections to other individuals involved with the Battle of the Little Big Horn. Steve indicated that several of these relationships are well known, but most are surprising and include sites in Pennsylvania that are open to visitors. A question-and-answer period will conclude the meeting.
and
Members of the Paloma School of Irish Dance have something for you.
It’s a gift of experience. It’s a gift of culture. It’s a gift of themselves.
“I think there’s a lot more dancing and a lot more music in (Irish) culture,” said Esther Pujol, the founder and owner of Paloma School of Irish Dance. “I think the show embraces that, embraces that spirit. It’s about communities coming together and celebrating music and dance. The purpose of the show is to spread holiday cheer and bring some Celtic traditions to Lancaster County.”
Paloma School of Irish Dance will present its Celtic Christmas Show present to the community at 6 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 14, at Lancaster Mennonite School’s High Fine Arts Center, 2176 Lincoln Highway East, Lancaster. Modestly priced tickets for the school’s first-ever Christmas performance, which will feature traditional and modern Celtic dance and music, can be purchased in advance at www.palomaboosterclub.com/ celtic-christmas-show-2025. html or at the door on the night of the show.
“I think the audience is going to fall in love with Irish dance,” said Pujol. “I hope (the audience members) are pleasantly surprised, like it’s better than they expected. I think there was a generation who was familiar with Riverdance. But I think there’s a younger generation who hasn’t been exposed to it or know what it is.”
Debbie Hauck, carpentry by Gary Hoglenboth,
broom-making demonstrations.
See Candlelight Christmas pg 9
Custer were third cousins.
Museum vice president Jim Kauffman stands in a building on the grounds of the Conestoga Area Historical Society. Photo by George Deibel
Steve Custer
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Handbell Ensemble To Perform Holiday Concert
The Hershey Handbell Ensemble will present a holiday concert on Sunday, Dec. 14, at 3 p.m. at Grace Lutheran Church, 517 N. Queen St., Lancaster.
The ensemble was formed in 2004 and is based in southcentral Pennsylvania. It was created to be an auditioned community ensemble made up of people able to play advanced literature
and interested in advancing the art of handbell ringing through education and performance while uniting people through the musical arts. The 15-member group under the direction of Shawn Gingrich performs on seven and a half octaves of Malmark Handbells, four octaves of Petit and Fritsen Handbells, silver melody bells, handchimes,
and other assorted instruments. In 2015, the ensemble performed at the White House.
A freewill offering will be accepted. The ensemble will have a selection of its CD recordings available for purchase at the concert.
For more information, visit www.hersheyhandbellensemble.org or call 717-298-7071.
We encourage local nonprofit groups, schools,
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 driv -
ing 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.
VisionCorps has largeprint 2026 calendars available now. The 2026 calendar is 21.5 by 17 inches when opened, and each date square is 2.25 by 2.75 inches.
The cover of the calendar is in blue tone. The inside calendar pages are in black and white for contrast, and the numbers are large and in bold print, making them easier to see. This year, the calendar’s cover includes some historical photos to celebrate the organization’s 100th anniversary.
For more information on how to purchase a calendar, contact Tyler at therbein@visioncorps .net or call 717-2054153. Calendars will be sent out in the mail.
VisionCorps To Offer 2026 Calendars Church Plans Community Meal
Joseph’s Table at Ascension Lutheran Church, 600 E. Penn Grant Road, Willow Street, will offer a takeout meal to members of the community on Thursday, Dec. 18.
Meals may be picked up from 5:30 to 6 p.m. There is no charge. Those who would like a meal should enter the parking lot from Penn Grant Road and exit onto Shiprock Road.
The Hershey Handbell Ensemble
Conservation District Celebrates 75th Anniversary
The Lancaster County Conservation District held a gala at Moonstone Manor in Elizabethtown on Sept. 25 to celebrate 75 years of conservation efforts in Lancaster County. For 75 years, volunteers and district staff have worked with landowners and communities to care for natural and agricultural resources in local watersheds that have a direct impact on the Chesapeake Bay. In 1950, Lancaster County commissioners approved establishing a countywide conservation district, initially working
with farmers to maintain soils and installing sustainable conservation practices like field contour strips, cattle crossings, streambank fencing, and no-till planting practices. Today, the district’s mission remains to promote the stewardship of natural resources for Lancaster County and beyond.
Dan Lynch, former Pennsylvania Game Commission educator, hosted the program, and Commissioner Ray D’Agostino shared remarks and presented a proclamation on behalf of the Lancaster County com-
missioners. Other speakers at the celebration included Sonia Wasco, district board chair; Chris Thompson, district administrator; Jill Whitcomb, Pennsylvania Deputy Secretary of the Department of Environmental Protection’s Office of Water Programs; Doug Wolfgang, the executive secretary of the State Conservation Commission; Don McNutt, former district administrator; Jim Caldwell, Rettew Associates; Matt Kofroth, assistant district manager; and Dan Zimmerman, district associate director. Pennsyl-
vania Secretary of Agriculture Russ Redding closed out the program, and the evening ended with a toast by Chris Thompson, recognizing the district’s strong reputation for high-quality service and opportunities for the future.
Present at the gala were (from left) state Rep. Keith Greiner, state Rep. Nikki Rivera, Sallie Gregory, Matt Kofroth, Sonia Wasco, Chris Thompson, Pennsylvania Secretary of Agriculture Russ Redding, and state Rep. Brett Miller.
Penn Manor Winter Sports Kickoff
Basketball Wrestling
Boys'
Schedule
Tue. 12/2 at Conestoga Valley 7:30 pm
Fri. 12/5 at Waynesboro 7:30 pm
Sat. 12/6 vs Cocalico 5:30 pm
Tue. 12/9 vs Exeter 7:00 pm
Thu. 12/11 vs Manheim Township 7:30 pm
Tue. 12/16 vs Lebanon 7:30 pm
Thu. 12/18 at Hempfield 7:30 pm
Mon. 12/22 at West York 7:30 pm
Fri. 12/26 Warwick Holiday Tourn. 6:30 pm
Sat. 12/27 Warwick Holiday Tourn. 4:30 pm
Wed. 1/7 vs McCaskey 7:30 pm
Fri. 1/9 at Cedar Crest 7:30 pm
Mon. 1/12 at Manheim Township 7:30 pm
Thu. 1/15 at Lebanon 7:30 pm
Fri. 1/23 vs Hempfield 7:30 pm
Sat. 1/24 at Daniel Boone 12:30 pm
Thu. 1/29 at McCaskey 7:30 pm
Fri. 1/30 vs Carlisle 7:30 pm
Tue. 2/3 vs Cedar Crest 7:30 pm
Thu. 2/5 vs Mechanicsburg 6:00 pm
Bowling
Mon. 12/1 vs Elizabethtown 3:30 pm
Fri. 12/5 at Manheim Township 3:30 pm
Tue. 12/9 vs Cedar Crest 3:30 pm
Fri. 12/12 at McCaskey 3:30 pm
Tue. 12/16 at Warwick 3:30 pm
Fri. 12/19 at Ephrata 3:30 pm
Tue. 1/6 vs Hempfield 3:30 pm
Thu. 1/8 vs Manheim Township 3:30 pm
Mon. 1/12 at Cedar Crest 3:30 pm
Fri. 1/16 at Conestoga Valley 3:30 pm
Tue. 1/20 vs McCaskey 3:30 pm
Tue. 1/27 vs Lebanon 3:30 pm
Girls' Schedule
Tue. 11/25 at Conrad Weiser 4:00 pm
Fri. 11/28 Penn Manor Tourn. 5:00 pm
Sat. 11/29 Penn Manor Tourn. 5:00 pm
Tue. 12/2 vs Conestoga Valley 7:30 pm
Fri. 12/5 at Waynesboro 6:00 pm
Sat. 12/6 vs West York 2:30 pm
Fri. 12/12 at Manheim Township 7:30 pm
Tue. 12/16 at Lebanon 7:30 pm
Thu. 12/18 vs Hempfield 7:30 pm
Sat. 12/20 vs Ephrata 2:30 pm
Mon. 12/22 at Cocalico 7:30 pm
Fri. 1/2 at Dallastown 7:30 pm
Wed. 1/7 at McCaskey 7:30 pm
Fri. 1/9 vs Cedar Crest 7:30 pm
Mon. 1/12 vs Manheim Township 7:30 pm
Thu. 1/15 vs Lebanon 7:30 pm
Wed. 1/21 at Warwick 7:30 pm
Fri. 1/23 at Hempfield 7:30 pm
Thu. 1/29 vs McCaskey 7:30 pm
Sat. 1/31 vs Kennard-Dale 2:30 pm
Tue. 2/3 at Cedar Crest 7:30 pm
Swimming
Thu. 1/29 at Hempfield 3:30 pm Tue. 12/2 at Manheim Central 7:30 pm Tue. 12/9 at Ephrata 4:00 pm Thu. 12/18 at Warwick 7:30 pm Tue. 1/6 vs Hempfield 4:00 pm Thu. 1/8 at Lancaster Catholic 7:30 pm Tue. 1/13 at Manheim Township 4:00 pm Tue. 1/20 vs Cedar Crest 4:00 pm Tue. 1/27 vs McCaskey 4:00 pm Thu. 1/29 vs Lampeter-Strasburg 4:00 pm
Boys' Schedule
Wed. 12/10 at Ephrata 7:00 pm
Fri. 12/12 Penn Manor Tourn. 8:00 am
Sat. 12/13 Penn Manor Tourn. 8:00 am
Tue. 12/16 at Manheim Township 7:00 pm
Wed. 12/17 at Lebanon 7:00 pm
Fri. 12/19 vs Cedar Crest 7:00 pm
Sat. 12/27 Conestoga Valley Tourn. 8:00 am Sun. 12/28 Conestoga Valley Tourn. 8:00 am
Sat. 1/3 vs Elizabethtown Tourn. 8:00 am
Tue. 1/6 vs Hempfield 7:00 pm
Wed. 1/14 vs Solanco 7:00 pm
Wed. 1/21 at McCaskey 7:00 pm
Girls' Schedule
Mon. 12/15 vs Elizabethtown 7:00 pm
Wed. 12/17 at Lebanon 7:00 pm
Sat. 12/20 Big Spring Tourn. 7:00 am
Thu. 1/8 at Manheim Township 7:00 pm
Wed. 1/21 vs McCaskey 7:00 pm
Tue. 1/27 at Dallastown 6:30 pm
Wed. 1/28 vs Central Dauphin 7:00 pm
Wed. 2/4 at Lampeter-Strasburg 7:00 pm
Content represents the schedule available at press time.
The Celtic Christmas Show is a 90-minute performance that will be divided by a 15-minute intermission. Irish music, featuring fiddles, will accompany the 20 dance numbers, but the show will not include singing.
“I think the best way to describe the atmosphere is merry,” said Pujol, a resident of Manheim Township. “Everyone is just so excited and preparing for the performance. I think people are going to feel the joy of the holiday season from the stage. It’s a chance for the performers to share what they do. They love to perform.”
Nearly 70 individuals from Paloma School of Irish Dance will perform at the Celtic Christmas Show, including college dancers, school-age students and adults. Many of the performers reside in the Manheim Township, Warwick, Conestoga Valley, Garden Spot, Lampeter-Strasburg, Donegal, Penn Manor, Solanco and Lancaster school districts.
The family-oriented troupe also includes many parents, children, siblings and cousins performing together.
“These kids are just everything,” said Pujol. “They’re kids who are actively applying to colleges. Some are on the robotics team. Some are National Honor Society
students. Some are football players. Some are very successful in other parts of their lives. They’re just exceptional, exceptional people.”
“When people come up to me at our shows, they say these kids are so talented,” added Pujol. “I’m lucky because I get to work with these kids who are such hard workers.”
A combination of the performing arts and sports, Irish dance demands athleticism, synchronization and repetition to succeed at high levels. Emerging dancers learn collaboration, accountability and problem-solving through their involvement.
“Irish dance still has a lot of its traditional roots,” said Pujol. “Some of the dances we’ll be doing onstage originated hundreds of years ago. A handful of our dancers are actively competitive. A lot of those who will be at the show have competed on the regional, national and world levels. They’re very competitive; they take it seriously. This will kind of be a nice break for them. It’ll be a nice way for them to show their craft.”
Headquartered at 1285 Manheim Pike, Suite 3, Lancaster, Paloma School of Irish Dance was established by Pujol in 2015, partly as a way to stay connected with
itor and partly as a way to honor her roots. There are currently 125 students from all across Lancaster County and beyond enrolled in the school.
“It helps dancers reach their highest levels of dance, reach their potential and have them become good citizens,” said Pujol. “As they’re doing this, they’re learning important life lessons like
leadership, teamwork and hard work. The dancing has opened a lot of doors for our dancers, not just in dancing but also in life.”
“It’s such a niche sport,” continued Pujol. “The school has grown now to bigger than it was before COVID. In a way, it has surpassed the goals I set for it. Now, here we are, and I’m enjoying it.”
Paloma School dancers rehearse for their upcoming Celtic Christmas Show.
The Lancaster County Bird Club (LCBC) will sponsor the Lancaster County Christmas Bird Counts. People may participate in the counts in Solanco on Sunday, Dec. 14; in the Christmas Bird Count for Kids at Lancaster County Central Park on Saturday, Dec. 20, from 9 to 11 a.m.; in Lancaster on Sunday, Dec. 21; and in Lititz on Sunday, Dec. 28.
Since 1900, the National Audubon Society has conducted a bird census called the Christmas Bird Count, with much of the legwork done by volunteers. Birders of all skill levels may participate, including backyard bird watchers. The data
collected has been used for studying bird population trends, migration patterns, and conservation policy.
The Christmas Bird Count for Kids will be held in collaboration with the Lancaster County Department of Parks and Recreation. It is designed to teach children about birding and volunteering as a citizen scientist. All children are required to register with the Parks Department by calling 717-295-2055, and all kids must be accompanied by an adult. Adults without kids are also welcome. Additional questions about the Christmas Bird Count for Kids may be directed to John Lahr
at 717-205-3030 or john lahr324@gmail.com.
For all the Counts, backyard birders are asked to register with the contact person before the event to determine if their home is within the Count circle. Participants will be assigned to a team with leaders who are acquainted with their areas.
For details on the Solanco event, contact Derek Stoner at 484-723-3348 or derek stoner@hotmail.com. For the Lancaster event, contact Roger Stoner at 717393-9030. For information about the Lititz event, contact Ted Nichols at 717-856-3851 or tanichols ii@gmail.com.
The LCBC will also offer a field trip to Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area on Saturday, Dec. 27, at 10:30 a.m. Participants should meet at the Visitor Center, 100 Museum Road, Stevens.
Participants will explore Middle Creek’s winter landscape and observe the season’s local bird species while gaining insight into the process of counting birds for the annual Christmas Bird Counts. No preregistration is required. For more information, contact Nichols, the trip leader.
For more information about the LCBC, visit www.lancasterbirdclub .org, www.facebook .com/lancasterbirdclub, or www.instagram.com/ lancasterbirdclub.
Jazz Orchestra Sets Concert
The Corsair Blue Jazz Orchestra will present “Swinging
on Sunday, Dec. 14, at 3:30 p.m. at Millersville Community Church, 163 W. Frederick St.,
The concert will feature a variety of Yuletide instrumental and vocal selections.
A freewill offering will be received, with all proceeds benefiting Loft Community Partnership.
The Corsair Blue Jazz Orchestra is composed of 22 accomplished musicians
and performs the music of jazz bands from the swing era as well as the diverse repertoire of contemporary jazz orchestras. In addition to instrumental compositions, performances feature vocal selections. Founded in 2014, the orchestra continues its mission to honor and support veterans of the United States military as well as community-based charitable organizations and collaborate with student ensembles through performance events.
General Custer
Steve became interested in General Custer at a very young age when his mother traced the family’s genealogy to the general. Steve has accumulated a large assortment of Custer-related books that he started collecting while in high school. Retired from a career in agriculture, he now spends time buying and selling rare and collectible books and serves on the board of directors of the Little Big Horn Associates, a decades-old organization
from pg 1
dedicated to the study of General Custer’s life.
A graduate of Michigan State University, Steve was born and raised in Creston, Iowa. He farmed Christmas trees in southern Berks County before moving to Lancaster in 2011, where he and his wife, Jeanne, currently reside.
Admission is free, and donations are appreciated.
For more details, contact Phil Gerber at 717-8728837 before noon or at pge8507@aol.com.
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.
The Corsair Blue Jazz Orchestra
Bridge of Hope Lancaster Receives Award
Bridge of Hope Lancaster was recently honored with the Division I Top Benchmark Award during the Bridge of Hope National Annual Conference, held Oct. 1 to 3 in Lancaster.
with the family. These benchmark achievements exemplify this year’s Bridge of Hope National Conference theme: “Fostering Community Through Connection.”
ASCENSION LUTHERAN CHURCH: 600 E. Penn Grant Rd., (Mailing: P.O. Box 635, Willow Street, 17584) 717-464-5683 Pastor: The Rev. Maureen L. Seifried Worship w/Holy Communion: Saturday Eve. 6 pm & Sunday 9:30 am. Livestreaming Visit: www.ascensionws.org
BETHEL CHURCH: 3716 Main Street, Conestoga. Sunday worship at 10:15 AM. Pastor: Jake Farnham. For more info, call 717-872-6755.
BREAKOUT MINISTRIES: Senior Pastors Ron & Mary Buch; Sundays at 10am. Contemporary worship & messages of freedom, healing, deliverance and discipleship. Children’s ministry includes nursery through Sr. High. Wednesday Night Prayer Meeting 7-8pm; Check our web site for scheduled home bible studies.; JA Jesus based recovery meeting Saturday 7-8:30p. Men and Women groups meet monthly. Family Fun Night bi-monthly 6:30-9:00, Jr. and Sr. High youth group meets alternating months. Local and International outreaches. Web site: www.breakoutministries.org or Call for details. 2400 Anita Court, Leola, PA 17540. Ph.: (717)656-8366
COLEMANVILLE UM CHURCH: 210 Colemanville Church Rd., Conestoga. Sunday Worship 8:40 AM, Sunday School 10:15 AM. 717-872-7951 Pastor: Manuel Cruz www.colemanvilleumc.org
FAITH BIBLE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH: 151 Donnerville Rd., Lancaster (one block south of Columbia Avenue). Pastor: Keith M. Long. 8:45 am Sunday School (with nursery and classes for children, youth and adults); 10:15 a.m. SundayWorship Service (with nursery and children’s church). Wed.: 6:30 p.m. AWANA Clubs (K6); Wed.: 6:30 pm Youth Group 717-285-1900. www.faithbfc.com
GRACE BAPTIST CHURCH OF MILLERSVILLE 121 Walnut Hill Rd., Millersville. Sunday Worship at 8:15 am & 10:45 am. Sunday School for all ages at 9:45 am. Phone: 717872-4581 www.findgracehere.org
GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH OF WILLOW STREET: 212 Peach Bottom Rd., Willow Street. Pastor- Mike Sigman. Weekend Worship: 6pm Saturday, Contemporary; Sunday Worship: 8 a.m. Traditional; 9:15am & 11am Contemporary. Sunday Schl from infant-5th grade, meets simultaneously with the 6pm, 9:15 & 11am Worship Services. GCC Young Adults - Tues. 7 pm. Youth Ministry- Sun. & Wed. 6:30 pm. Numerous Small Groups. 717-464-5333 www.gccws.net info@gccws.net
MARTICVILLE CHURCH: Located at 641 Marticville Rd. (Rt. 324) between New Danville & Pequea. Pastor: Kevin Kresge. 9:30am worship service. Casual dress. Nursery, handicap accessible. Visit us online: MarticvilleChurch.org E-mail: info@marticvillechurch.org
MILLERSVILLE COMMUNITY UM CHURCH
We are learning to live, love & lead like Jesus. Join us Sundays at 9:00 AM for Traditional Worship at Grace Campus, 163 W Frederick St or at 10:30 AM for Contemporary Worship at Hope Campus, 242 Bender Rd. On-line worship is offered at our website: MCchurch.net
THE WAKEFIELD VINEYARD: 2292
Robert Fulton Hwy., Peach Bottom. Senior Pastors Mark & Pam Couch Join us on Sundays @ 10:15 AM For more info, call 717-955-0173.
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
The award recognizes Bridge of Hope Lancaster’s achievement in meeting or exceeding Bridge of Hope benchmarks, which aid in ending family homelessness through Bridge of Hope. The Lancaster branch excelled in both family and Neighboring Volunteer experiences; 100% of families reported experiencing care, friendship, or helpful connections with their Neighboring Volunteers, and 100% of Neighboring Volunteers reported an increased understanding of family homelessness, provided tangible and practical support to the family they neighbored, or developed a positive relationship
Bridge of Hope is a national network of 20 locations across 12 states, with a mission to engage Christian faith communities in ending family homelessness through neighboring relationships that demonstrate Christ’s love. The annual conference brings together staff and board members from across the network to connect, gain innovative strategies, and celebrate the achievements made in their collective work to end family homelessness.
For more information about Bridge of Hope Lancaster, visit https:// lancaster.bridgeofhope inc.org/.
Global Disciples Names New CEO
René Dekker, a Netherlands native, was recently named CEO of Global Disciples, an international missions organization focused on the third of the world that has yet to hear the Gospel of Jesus.
From 2021 to earlier this year, Dekker served as the lead pastor of the Evangelical Church of Bangkok (ECB), Thailand - an international church with over 70 nationalities. For the three years prior, he was ECB’s executive and worship pastor. Dekker also has 20 years of experience as an international business leader working in finance, strategic planning and implementation, business development, and organizational leadership for various international organizations, including Synova, Nidera, Sara Lee, and Eli Lilly. He holds a master’s degree in business economics from Erasmus University in the Netherlands, as well as a master’s degree in ministry leadership from Crown College in Minnesota.
Dekker was unanimously approved by the global board of directors to lead the missions organization, which provides locally sustainable discipleship training in more than 70 countries. In Global Disciples’ last reporting year, over 30,000 disciple-makers were trained, resulting in more than 75,000 new believers established in fellowships around the world.
Receiving the award for Bridge of Hope Lancaster are (from left) Lisa Mohler, assistant program director; Caitlyn Mellinger, neighborhood resource specialist; Jessica Sisemore, program director; and Caleb Simmers, church engagement and housing director.
Christmas from pg 1
Antique toys are always a popular attraction. “We have a big selection of toys that people may have received when they were kids in the early 1900s, late 1800s,” Kauffman said.
Other museum artifacts will garner attention, including an updated display of decoys in the decoy room from Ed Helshe.
Pianist Sharon Gantz will play Christmas songs from 5 to 6:30 p.m., and the Manor Singers from Penn Manor High School will perform at 7 p.m.
Visitors will be treated to free refreshments including cookies, coffee, and wassail, which will be provided by historical society members.
“Wassail is an old-time drink that you drink warm,” said Kauffman. “It’s made from apricot nectar and pineapple juice and cinnamon sticks and cloves. You put all the small ingredients in a pan and let it simmer in a pan of water for an hour. It’s really good.”
Kelly Shelly and her family will be doing openhearth cooking in the tavern on the historical society grounds. Dressed in period attire, the Shellys will deep-fry potato doughnuts and hand them out to visitors in exchange for a
donation.
The historical society museum houses three Conestoga wagons. “People always like seeing the wagons,” said Kauffman.
“We had one of our wagons at (Historic) Rock Ford for the Lafayette celebration. People always ask all kinds of questions. We have three wagons, and we’re in the process of making a farm wagon into a prairie schooner.”
As it does during regular hours, the historical society will have members on hand to answer questions from visitors. The gift shop will be open during Candlelight Christmas, as well.
“We have a wonderful gift shop with a nice selection of books, local history books that are for sale, as well as Christmas items,” said Kauffman.
The Conestoga Area Historical Society will close for winter after being open from 1 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 14. It will reopen Saturday, April 11, with running hours from 1 to 4 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Admission is free. Kauffman said museum volunteers will also lead groups on tours during the week. Call 717-872-1699 for more information.
A Women’s Concern Receives Ultrasound Machine
the new ultrasound machine are (from left) Michael Thornton, board president of A Woman’s Concern (AWC); Brian Smith, state treasurer of Knights of Columbus; Fr. Lawrence W. Sherdel, Knights chaplain; Jill Hartman, executive director of AWC; Jack Rosati, state program director of Knights; and Bill Childs, district deputy of Knights.
A Woman’s Concern (AWC) recently received a new ultrasound machine, made possible through the generosity of the Knights of Columbus and the support of many donors.
The fundraising campaign surpassed its goal, enabling AWC to also secure an extended warranty for the piece of equipment.
The Knights of Columbus provided the center’s first ultrasound machine in Pennsylvania 25 years ago.
Jill Hartman, executive director of AWC,
emphasized that ultrasound technology plays an essential role in supporting women’s health. The new machine strengthens AWC’s mission to support both mothers and fathers facing unplanned pregnancies at no cost to them. The organization’s men’s program complements this effort by reaching fathers, who often play a key role in pregnancy decisions.
A celebration and blessing of the ultrasound machine was held on Sept. 29.
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– Evan Courtney,
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our team help you reach your next customer. Contact us today at 717.492.2544 epcdigital@engleonline.com
Celebrating
Ware Center Posts Concert
The Ware Center for the Arts, 42 N. Prince St., Lancaster, in partnership with WITF Music, will present “Lancaster Loves Julia Kamanda & Cabbage Hill” on Friday, Dec. 12, at 7:30 p.m. Lancaster music icon Julia Jordan Kamanda, a singer/ songwriter and teaching artist, brings her natural R&B soul to jazz and folk-inspired tunes. Her debut album, “Urban Legacy,” released in 2007, presents songs about light, love, and trusting life’s changes, lessons she learned from her musical father, Stanley Jordan, and her poetess mother, Sandy Kilpatrick Jordan. She has performed around the world at legendary music venues and events, including the Buzios Jazz y Blues Festival in Brazil, the Cairo Opera House in Egypt, the Long Beach Jazz Festival in California, and Alice Tully Hall in New York City. In her first music-for-film projects, she teamed up with Biko Studios to provide music supervision for two short films, SALAY and Kombra, both of which
have won numerous awards and are currently making their way through the international film festival circuit.
Cabbage Hill is four-piece band from Lancaster that comprises Riley Shaak on guitar, Kieran Benton on drums and vocals, Henry Devorik on keyboards, and Ryan Harrington on bass. The band’s music blends R&B, jazz, and progressive rock. Cabbage Hill has opened for Ghost Funk Orchestra, JW Francis, and Lydia Brittan and The Royal Family and performed in an artist spotlight session with WITF. The band is currently working on its first studio EP with a tentative release in early 2026.
The concert is part of the “Lancaster Loves” series, featuring local music across a variety of genres in an intimate cabaret setting.
To reserve tickets, visit www.artsmu.com, call 717-871-7600, or visit the Ware Center or the Student Memorial Center box office on the Millersville University campus.
Creative Works Sets
Sock Puppet Play
Creative Works of Lancaster will present “Dye Hard: The Siege of Sockatomi Plaza,” with an original script by playwright Erich Goldstein, on Saturday, Dec. 13, and Sunday, Dec. 14, at 6 and 8 p.m. at Zoetropolis, 112 N. Water St., Lancaster. The nomadic theater company will present this new work as part of its tradition of parodying films
with sock puppets. The performance is not recommended for children.
Creative Works utilizes a pay-what-you-decide ticketing model with no fixed ticket prices. Attendees pay what they think the experience was worth after the show. Tickets can be reserved at www.creativelancaster .org. Tickets may also be available at the door, but reservations are encouraged.
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CHRISTMAS CHRISTMAS & & NEW YEAR EARLY DEADLINES
Engle Printing & Publishing Co., Inc. offices will be CLOSED on THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25TH & THURSDAY, JANUARY 1ST
EXP. FT/PT DRIVERS Straight truck drivers, Class C non-CDL. Retirees also welcome. Punctual Services Inc. 717-252-0487 NAPA AUTO PARTS PT DELIVERY Columbia area, 20-25 hrs. wk.
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Mechanical Trades
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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.
ASPHALT MILLINGS AND CRUSHED CONCRETE FOR SALE. Call PAVWORX® at 610-929-9971 pavworx.com/millings.html
Collectibles
BUYING TOYS & COLLECTIBLES www.DNRCollectibles.com
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Julia Kamanda
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
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DONATE YOUR CAR to Veterans Today! Help and Support our Veterans. Fast - FREE pick up. 100% tax deductible. Call 1-800245-0398.
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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.
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SERVICES RENDERED
A PLUS SERVICE
SPINELLO HOME IMPROVEMENTS
Roof & siding repair, painting, kitchen & bath remodeling, decks, no job too odd or too small, references, insured. PA031727. Call Mike Spinello, 717-464-5466
AERATING & OVERSEEDING LANDSCAPING DESIGN
INSTALLATION/MAINTENANCE
Mulching • Tree/Shrub Planting/Trimming Stump Grinding • Seeding • Excavation FREE ESTIMATES • FULLY INSURED Rosslawnservice.com 717-468-3632
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Honest pricing w/25 yrs. exp.! Fully ins. Tree pruning/removal • Stump grinding. FREE ESTIMATES! Call: 717-598-9857
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SUNROOMS • SCREENED ROOMS • ETC. 22 Years Exp. � 717-687-0899
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INTERIOR PAINTING
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MAST SEAMLESS GUTTER
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NEED LAWN CARE?
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• SKID STEER SERVICES • Land Clearing - Dirt Work - Light Exterior Demo & more! 717-925-0418 StrongholdPropertyServices.com
STUMP GRINDING/REMOVAL!
Top soil if desired. Reasonable pricing. FREE ESTIMATES! Call: 717-598-9857
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.
WANTED COSTUME, BROKEN, FINE JEWELRY
TONE’S SOLID CONTRUCTION Remodel • Basements • Additions Decks Fences, etc. We do it all! Insd./PA176621 | 717-984-3865 Tree Trimming & Removal Land/Brush Clearing • Stump
Answering the Call: The Blue Rock Firehouse Project
The Blue Rock Regional Fire District was incorporated in 2011 through an agreement between Manor Township and Millersville Borough. With a mission statement of One Team. Our Mission. Your Safety., the district covers 55 square miles of Manor Township and Millersville Borough, including six miles of the Susquehanna River.
There is a dire need for a new rehouse to replace the Highville and Washington Boro stations. By building a new station in Washington Boro and with the existing West Lancaster and Millersville stations, Blue Rock will be able to continue to protect and serve everyone in the district.
We need your help to raise $10 million for our new station. Will you answer the call?
The new two-story building will include ve drive-through bays and sleeping quarters for our volunteers.
Blue Rock Regional Fire Rescue handles all of the re and emergency management related activities including structural re ghting, large scale brush res, heavy vehicle and industrial rescue, water rescue and wildland re ghting.
We need your help. Will you answer the call?
Chief – Give $100
Commissioner - Give $500
Champion – Give $1,000
Community Hero – Give $10,000
You can give by mailing your check to:
Blue Rock Regional Fire District
26 East Charlotte St., Millersville, PA 17551 or Venmo at https://venmo.com/u/bluerock re
For
