In this episode of Open House, join Gerry for a conversation with Michelle Zemba, Gifts Officer at New Hope Ministries. Together they explore the organization’s mission, the support it offers to families, and the range of programs it provides to the community.
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A Gettysburg Christmas Festival – Annual Tree Lighting 2025
Join us as we follow Santa from Gettysburg Railway to the Gettysburg Square where he will officially kick off the 2025 Annual Gettysburg Tree Lighting, a part of the A Gettysburg Christmas Festival.
A Gettysburg Christmas Festival is brought to you by Main Street Gettysburg.
The Annual Tree Lighting is brought to you by the Gettysburg Area Retail Merchants Association (GARMA).
Huge thank you to everyone involved to help make this possible every year!
Final Week of Franklin County Festival of Trees 2025: There’s a Song in the Air
Chambersburg, PA – Not only is there a song in the air at the 2025 Franklin County Festival of Trees but there is also an abundance of holiday cheer, sparkling trees, and beautifully bowed wreaths. With an inch or so of snow on the ground, it is truly a winter wonderland at the Franklin County 11/30 Visitors Center, on the southwest corner of Memorial Square. Franklin County’s 2025 Festival of Trees is finishing the final days of the event–Thursday, December 4, through Saturday, December 6, at the Franklin County 11/30 Visitors Center in Chambersburg, PA. The event features a variety of creatively decorated trees and wreaths available for silent auction and voting, with all proceeds benefiting the Cumberland Valley Breast Care Alliance (CVBCA).
The 2025 Festival of Trees has cactus trees, upside-down trees, pencil trees, and many trees decorated with candy themes, patriotic themes, musical themes, and classic Christmas themes. Overall, about 40% of the 2025 decorators of Festival of Trees are new to the event.
King Street Church Pottery Studio Ministry is a returning decorator and is again using hand-crafted pottery ornaments made and donated by the pottery class. In 2024, the Pottery Ministry won recognition as the tree with the highest bid in the silent auction. This year, the Certified Tourism Ambassador tree—an elegant, dark chocolate tree with a woodsy theme—is leading silent auction tree bids. The wreath with the highest bid in the silent auction was the Capitol Theatre wreath, and it is again leading the wreath category. See everything in person or check out the trees and wreaths online here.
Event Schedule
View the sparkling displays and place bids during these final hours:
| Date | Time | Special notes |
| Thursday, Dec 4 | 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM | |
| Friday, Dec 5 | 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM | Email bids close at 8 PM fcvbfestivaloftrees@gmail.com |
| Saturday, Dec 6 | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Phone bids close at 10 AM (866.646.8060 or 717.552.2977). In-person bids close at noon. |
| Saturday, Dec 6 | 1:15 PM -3:15 PM | Silent auction winners announced, and visitors center reopens for tree and wreath pick-up. |
How to Bid
If you want to place a bid on an item, you have several options:
- In Person: Visit the Franklin County 11/30 Visitors Center during the open hours listed above.
- By Email: Send your bids to fcvbfestivaloftrees@gmail.com. Email bids must be submitted by 8:00 PM on Friday, December 5.
- By Phone: Call 866.646.8060 or 717.552.2977. Phone bids must be submitted by 10:00 AM on Saturday, December 6.
Keep track of the current high bids online or in person. A competitive bid is the best way to win a favorite tree or wreath.
For more to see and do in Franklin County PA, visit ExploreFranklinCountyPA.com or contact Franklin County Visitors Bureau at 717.552.2977.
Adams County Association of Township Officials Convention – 11/19/2025
The Adams County Association of Township Officials Convention held on November 19th, 2025.
Hanover Christmas Tree Lighting 2025
The 2025 Hanover Christmas Tree Lighting and Ceremony, held on November 29th at 6pm, as part of the Christmas in Hanover event by Main Street Hanover.
Hanover Christmas Parade 2025
The 2025 Hanover Christmas Parade, held on November 29th at 11am, as part of the Christmas in Hanover event by Main Street Hanover.
Rise Yoga opens new location in downtown Gettysburg with an emphasis on accessibility and community connection
Gettysburg, PA – Rise Yoga Gettysburg will open their newly renovated studio location in downtown Gettysburg this week after 2.5 years of service to the community at Phoenix Wellness Center, with their first classes in the new space held on Thanksgiving morning. According to owner and Gettysburg native, Alli Crowell, the intention of this relocation is to increase accessibility, expand the number and variety of weekly class offerings and to continue to build community collaboration and connection. “We are excited to double our class offerings, including beginner-friendly classes, chair yoga, restorative yoga and a variety of Vinyasa-style classes. In addition to the weekly classes we offer in the studio, we have had the incredible opportunity to collaborate on wellness offerings with organizations such as Gettysburg College, the National Park Service, Wellspan, the Children’s Advocacy Center, Healthy Adams County and the Arts Council, as well as personalized offerings for private groups ranging from senior centers to bachelorette parties. We hope that our new home in downtown Gettysburg will enhance our ability to serve the community and partner with local organizations and wellness spaces. With proximity to schools, we are excited to increase our family and youth programs including summer camps and after school programming. We are an endorsed studio partner of the LoveYourBrain Foundation, which gives us a unique ability to collaborate with local clinical spaces to offer research-backed accessible yoga and mindfulness classes specifically designed for the brain injury community. Our dynamic team of instructors are trained in trauma-informed practices to serve a wide range of needs, abilities and experiences. We want to disprove the notion that yoga is only for folks who are ‘fit and flexible.’ In fact it is quite the opposite.”
In addition to the convenience of its downtown location, Rise studio adds ease of access to downtown walkers and bicyclists, has ample parking in the surrounding block, and is a wheelchair accessible facility. Rise offers accessible pricing plans, including regular pay-what-you-can offerings and a free monthly community class on First Fridays. The studio provides all of the equipment one might need, including yoga mats free of charge for those who prefer to borrow. Rise will offer weekly free open studio hours to come with your questions and inquiries.
“While our vision is expanding, our values remain the same. Our intention is to create a space that feels like home, where anyone, regardless of ability or background will feel safe and supported to grow in their yoga and meditation practice and most importantly, to continue to nurture community wellness and connection. We can’t wait to share it with you!”
Alli Crowell, MAT, RYT-200, is the owner and founder of Rise Yoga Gettysburg. She is certified in Hatha and Vinyasa Yoga, Restorative Yoga, Accessible Yoga, Yoga for Children and has trained in trauma-informed mindfulness and meditation practices through the Spirit Rock Meditation Center. She currently serves as a facilitator and lead retreat instructor for the LoveYourBrain Foundation and is a graduate of the Accessible Yoga School, an organization with a commitment to equity and accessibility in yoga instruction. Her mission, along with the entire instructional team at Rise is to offer yoga and mindfulness for every body, every mind, and every season of life.
Rise Yoga Gettysburg is a space of purposeful inclusion. You are welcome regardless of ability, experience, age, gender identity, sexual orientation, racial or cultural identity, neurodiversity, financial means, educational background, religious or spiritual perspective. Bilingual instructional support in Spanish is available in some classes.
430 Baltimore St. Gettysburg, PA 17325
434-242-9844
Instagram: @riseyogiburg
Facebook: RISE Yoga Gettysburg
Adams Rescue Mission – Littles Ones Daycare LLC
Adams Rescue Mission is super excited to announce their first location for their new ‘Little Ones Childcare LLC’! Take a look at the new space, located at Chapel Hill Church of God, hear from the Director of Child Development, Rachel Greathouse, and the Executive Director Will Hudson.
For enrollment information you can contact Rachel at:
717-334-7502 x 27
or email: rgreathouse@adamsrescuemission.org
“Littles Ones Childcare is designed as a steppingstone to traditional daycare settings. Our hope is most children will transition within one to two years, allowing us to support as many families as possible. Each year, we will meet with parents to provide resources, updates, and guidance to support your child’s next steps.”
Members from The Rotary Club of Gettysburg Met with Adams Regional Emergency Medical Services (AREMS)
Members from The Rotary Club of Gettysburg met with Adams Regional Emergency Medical Services (AREMS) at United Hook and Ladder in Bonneauville , to take a look at the sterilus machine that the Rotary and other community organizations helped the Fire Dept aquire. This machine helps dispose of hazardous needles and other medical waste by sterilizing, then grinding it.
If you’d like to donate toward the operation of this machine or the Rotary Club you can visit the websites below.
To learn more about the Rotary Club visit: www.gettysburgrotary.org
To learn more about United Hook and Ladder visit: 33fire.com
Hanover Borough Council Meeting – 11/25/2025
Tuesday, November 25, 2025
HANOVER BOROUGH COUNCIL MEETING
1. Call to Order
1.01 Call Meeting to Order: 7:00 PM
1.02 Pledge of Allegiance
1.03 Moment of Silence
1.04 Roll Call
2. Acknowledgement of Executive Session, if any
3. Presentations and Proclamations
3.01 Consideration of a motion to appoint Joseph Campo to the position of Police Seargent, effective December 22, 2025.
a. Oath of Office: Mayor Whitman
3.02 Employee Service Awards/Certificates of Appreciation: President Reichart
Kevin H. Starner – Public Works – 6/11/1973 – 52 years
Jeffrey L. Klinedinst – Public Works – 8/25/1975 – 50 years
Vickie A. Roberts – Police Dept. – 1/2/1985 – 40 years
Dorothy C. Felix – Administration – 5/20/1985 – 40 years
Charles E Amspacher – Fire Dept. – 5/22/1995 – 30 years
Lori A. Musselman – Public Works/Admin. – 10/30/1995 – 30 years
Philip M. Brady – Public Works – 12/4/1995 – 30 years
4. Public Comment
4.01 Hear Citizens concerning items presented in the Council Agenda
5. Consent Agenda
5.01 Approve Minutes:
a. Council Meeting October 22, 2025
5.02 Finance Reports:
a. Approve Bills for Payment
b. Accept Monthly Financial Statement
c. Accept Report of Monthly Investments
5.03 2026 Budget:
a. Approve legal advertisement for public inspection
5.04 890 McCosh St:
a. Approve Resolution No. 1451 for Preliminary / Final Subdivision Plan Conditional Approval for All Saints Protestant Episcopal Church at 890 McCosh St
5.05 Zoning Ordinance:
a. Accept recommended work product of the Planning Commission, comprised of their specific amendments to the Hanover Borough Zoning Ordinance and Zoning Map and authorize the Solicitor and staff to collaborate to provide all required legal notices, postings and scheduling for a future public hearing.
5.06 460/470 High Street:
a. Approve release of a performance bond in the amount of $21,524.45
5.07 Local Share Account Grant Application:
a. Approve Resolution No. 1452 to apply for LSA Grant in the amount of up to $300,000 for the purchase and installation of a new emergency generator for the 44 Frederick Street Public Safety Facility
6. Finance, Personnel and Administration – Mr. Kress
6.01 2026 Annual Main Street Allocation
a. Approve legal advertisement for ordinance designating $40,000 allocation
6.02 2026 Annual HEDC Allocation
a. Approve legal advertisement for ordinance designating $30,000 allocation
6.03 Fire Commission
a. Direct Staff and Solicitor to provide notice of intent to withdraw from the Hanover Area Fire and Rescue Commission effective December 31, 2026
7. Additional Public Comment
7.01 Hear Citizens concerning all other items relating to Hanover Borough Council
8. Announcements – Mr. Reichart
8.01 Please plan to exit the building within 15 minutes following adjournment so staff may secure the building and depart for the evening.
8.02 REMINDER: Saturday November 29 Christmas Parade 11:00 AM and Tree Lighting Ceremony 6:00 PM, for other activities see the Main Street Hanover Website
9. Adjournment
Gettysburg Borough Council Work Session – 11/24/2025
Borough of Gettysburg
Council Work Session Meeting Agenda
Monday, November 24, 2025 – 7:00 PM
I. Call to Order
II. Welcome and Opening Remarks
III. Announcements
An executive session was conducted by the Borough Council of the Borough of Gettysburg immediately following the adjournment of its November 10, 2025 monthly general business meeting consistent with section 708(a)(1) and section 708(a)(5) of the Sunshine Act.
An executive session will be conducted by the Borough Council immediately following the adjournment of this evening’s monthly work session public meeting consistent with section 708(a)(1) and section 708(a)(5) of the Sunshine Act for the following purposes: (1) to provide updated information and to discuss matters involving the employment or appointment of current, prospective or former Borough employees, the terms and conditions of employment, and the evaluation of performance of current Borough employees; and (2) to review and discuss matters of Borough business which, if conducted in public, could lead to the disclosure of information or confidentiality protected by law.
IV. Special Presentation
None.
V. Public Comment (Restricted to items appearing on the agenda – not tabled items)
VI. New Business
Waste Hauler Contract
Discussion on what to include
Timeline
VII. Current and Old Business
Review of two-year accomplishments / Priorities in 2026
VIII. Public Comment
IX. Adjournment
X. Executive Session
Borough of Hanover Police Issue Kindness Citations
Hanover, PA — The Hanover Borough Police Department is proud to announce three recent Kindness Citations presented to community members whose generosity and service continue to uplift the Hanover area.
Provide-A-Lunch Volunteers Recognized for Lifelong Service
Probationary Patrol Officer Noah Schaefer awarded a Kindness Citation to several volunteers of the Hanover Area Council of Churches Provide-A-Lunch (PAL) Program. Since serving its first meal on April 23, 1983, the PAL Program has provided two hot meals daily to individuals in need. The volunteers’ ongoing dedication plays a vital role in improving the health, nutritional wellbeing, and overall quality of life for community members, reflecting the program’s long-standing mission of compassion and care.
Library Leader Honored for Exceptional Dedication
Probationary Patrol Officer Griffin Kuhn presented a Kindness Citation to Barb Hentz, President of the Friends of Guthrie Memorial Library. Hentz has significantly strengthened the library through her leadership, positivity, and tireless volunteer efforts. She has organized successful book sales and donation drives—raising tens of thousands of dollars—and previously earned the library’s first-ever “Volunteer of the Year” award. Known for her enthusiasm and encouragement of both staff and volunteers, Hentz continues to inspire others while fostering a welcoming and supportive library environment.
Community Volunteer Recognized for Supporting Veterans
Officer Jose Gonzalez, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and retiree, issued a Kindness Citation to Melissa Goodwin for her long-standing commitment to honoring veterans. Since 2005, Goodwin has been a warm and
welcoming presence at the Hanover Market House, especially during the weekend closest to Veterans Day. Each year, she distributes gifts such as Christmas ornaments, Bibles, and other tokens of appreciation, while personally purchasing breakfast and lunch for numerous veterans. Her tradition of service began in childhood while helping her mother serve meals to veterans in Baltimore, and her compassion has continued to grow ever since.
Borough of Hanover Vision Statement
“We envision a thriving, welcoming community appealing to individuals, families and businesses where best-practices shape delivery of exceptional municipal services and citizen engagement. By providing efficient, high-quality services, we support a clean and safe environment, inclusive recreation, and a vibrant, drug-free downtown for all.”
The Borough of Hanover, York County, Pennsylvania, was incorporated in 1815. The Borough serves the public through stewardship, government, development and improvements of public assets including water/sewer/stormwater & refuse utilities, parks & recreation facilities, the Hanover Market House, the Guthrie Memorial Library, as well as Code Enforcement, Police & Fire Departments. It is governed by the Borough Council, overseen by the Borough Manager, and staffed by administrative, public service, public works, sewer, water, refuse and engineering professionals. Known as the Snack Food Capital of the World, Hanover is home, not only to numerous food industries, but also to manufacturing, technology, commercial sales, and services. Hanover Borough offices, located at 33 Frederick Street, can be reached at 717-637-3877 or by email at Info@HanoverBoroughPA.gov. More information is available at www.HanoverBoroughPA.gov.
Hanover Borough Finance & Personnel/Council Workshop – 11/19/2025
Wednesday, November 19, 2025
HANOVER BOROUGH FINANCE AND PERSONNEL
COMMITTEE MEETING
1. Call to Order
1.01 Call Meeting to Order: 7:00 PM
2. Public Comment
2.01 Hear Citizens concerning items presented in the Borough Finance and Personnel Agenda
3. Acknowledgement of Executive Session, if any
4. Presentations and Interviews
4.01 Finance Director Jim Shelton: Budget Presentation
Download the Budget Presentation here.
5. Consent Agenda
5.01 Minutes: Approval of Minutes of October 15, 2025
5.02 Finance Reports:
a. Approve Bills for Payment
b. Accept Monthly Financial Statement
c. Accept Report of Monthly investments
5.03 2026 Budget:
a. Approve legal advertisement for public inspection
5.04 2026 Annual Main Street Allocation
a. Approve legal advertisement for $40,000 allocation
5.05 2026 Annual HEDC Allocation
a. Approve legal advertisement for $30,000 allocation
6. Planning Commission
6.01 890 McCosh St:
a. Approve Resolution for Preliminary / Final Subdivision Plan Conditional Approval – All Saints Protestant Episcopal Church 890 McCosh St
6.02 Zoning Ordinance:
a. Approve advertisement for the public hearing and adoption of the proposed Zoning Ordinance
6.03 460/470 High Street:
a. Approve release of a performance bond in the amount of $21,524.45
7. Finance, Personnel and Administration
7.01 Local Share Account Grant Application:
a. Approve Resolution to apply for LSA Grant in the amount of up to $300,000 for the purchase and installation of a new emergency generator for the 44 Frederick Street Public Safety Facility
8. Reports of Council Members, Council Committees and Other Public Bodies
9. Management Reports
10. Correspondence and Information
11. Additional Public Comment
12. Announcements, if any
• Please plan to exit the building within 15 minutes following adjournment so staff may secure the building and depart for the evening.
• REMINDER: Saturday November 29 Christmas Parade 11:00 AM and Tree Lighting Ceremony 6:00 PM, for other activities see the Main Street Hanover Website
13. Adjournment
Open House – A Gettysburg Christmas Festival (Main Street Gettysburg)
In this episode of Open House, Ray welcomes Jill Sellers, President of Main Street Gettysburg, for a conversation about the upcoming A Gettysburg Christmas Festival, happening December 5th, 6th, and 7th. Jill shares the history of the festival, offers behind-the-scenes insights, and gives a sneak peek at the exciting new additions planned for this year’s celebration.
www.agettysburgchristmasfestival.com
www.mainstreetgettysburg.org
Dedication Day Ceremony 2025
The 162nd Anniversary of Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address. Held on November 19th, 2025 at the Soldiers’ National Cemetery in Gettysburg. Presented by the Lincoln Fellowship of Pennsylvania, with President Wendy Allen and Vice President Ken Kime. Featuring: Keynote speaker Dr. Jonathan White, Naturalization Ceremony, ‘The Gettysburg Address’ read by Dr. Michelle Krowl, music from the Gettysburg High School Ceremonial Band and more.
The Dedication Day Ceremony is an official America 250 PA event.
Adams County Sports Hall of Fame Banquet 2025
The Adams County Chapter of the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame inductees for the Class of 2025.
The recipients of this honor are: Kirby Scott, Little All-American football player and Division
III All-American sprinter from Gettysburg College; Laike Gardner, three-year state medalist
wrestler from Biglerville High School, with Canner school records for wins in a season and in a career; Brett Smith, Delone Catholic multi-sport athlete, who had outstanding high school careers in football, basketball, and baseball, and went on to excel at Buckell University in baseball; Andrea Wickerham, Gettysburg High School graduate, who had an exemplary career as a coach and athletic administrator at the collegiate level; Terry Conrad, who was an outstanding basketball player at Delone Catholic, and went on to have success as a college basketball coach; and Joe Egresitz (deceased), Gettysburg College football player and track and field athlete, who earned Little All-American status in college, and played in the NFL.
Plainville Farms Announces Major Donation Event Benefiting Eastern Adams Regional
New Oxford, PA – Plainville Farms is gearing up for another large-scale holiday donation aimed at supporting families in need across Pennsylvania. The company hosted its annual giving event on November 18 at 11:00 AM at its headquarters on York Road in New Oxford, partnering once again with Eastern Adams Regional.
The turkey producer has become a familiar name in local hunger-relief efforts. Last year, the company donated more than 46,000 pounds of turkey, including over 3,000 whole turkeys, to organizations serving several counties. According to company representatives, they expect to exceed those numbers this season.
Plainville Farms leaders say the effort comes at a critical time. Food insecurity continues to impact thousands of families in the region, and the holidays often bring heightened demand for nutritious meal options. The company describes its annual turkey donation as part of a broader commitment to addressing hunger and strengthening local communities. ‘Plainville Farms is committed to making a difference by providing nutritious, high-quality products to those who need them most.’
Gettysburg Planning Commission Meeting – 11/17/2025
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING AGENDA
Monday, November 17, 2025, at 7:00pm
1. Convene Meeting
2. Review and Approve Agenda
3. Review and Approve Meeting Minutes
A. October 20, 2025, Planning Commission Meeting Minutes
4. Public Comment Restricted to Items on the Planning Commission Meeting Agenda
5. Tabled Old Business
A. SLD-240003 / Gettysburg Station / 108 North Stratton Street Extension Request – Extension to January 20, 2026.
B. SLD-250002 / Simrat, LLC / 351 East Water Street Discussion of change of development plans and anticipated extension on December 15, 2025.
6. New Business
A. SLD-250003 / Beyond All Boundaries, Inc. / 26 East High Street Review of a minor subdivision / parcel boundary adjustment for property located at 26 E. High Street comments received to date.
7. Announcements
A. Borough Council will be voting on the Zoning Ordinance update on Monday, December 8, 2025, at 6:00 p.m.
B. The next Planning Commission meeting is scheduled for Monday, December 15, 2025, at 7:00 p.m.
8. Additional Comments from Planning Commission Members
9. Public Comment
10. Adjourn
Open House – Gettysburg Area Retail Merchants Association (GARMA)
In this episode of Open House, Ray sits down with Jennie Dillon, President of the Gettysburg Area Retail Merchants Association (GARMA). Together, they explore GARMA’s mission and highlight the festive initiatives the organization brings to the Gettysburg community during the holiday season.
Open House – The Chamber of Gettysburg & Adams County
In this episode of Open House, guest host Sarah Dull sits down with Carrie Stuart, President of The Chamber of Gettysburg and Adams County. Discover what the Chamber does, the events they organize, and the many ways you can get involved in supporting our local business community.
Carroll Valley Borough Council Meeting – 11/12/2025
BOROUGH COUNCIL AGENDA
Wednesday, November 13, 2025 – 7:00 P.M.
Richard Mathews, Council President, presiding Pledge of Allegiance
Roll Call
REGULAR MEETING
- Approval of Minutes: October 14, 2025, Regular Meeting
- Approval of Minutes: October 21. 2025, Budget Workshop Joint Meeting with Finance Committee
- Open to the public a. Citizens wishing to comment will be recognized in the Order of their listing on the Appearance Sheet and are asked to stand up and give their name, address, and organization they represent (if applicable). Impromptu comments are limited to five minutes per individual.
- Ordinances and Resolutions
- Mayor’s Report – R. Harris a. Police Report b. Around Town c. Upcoming Events & Meetings of Interest d. In Requiem
- Fire/EMS/EMA Report a. AREMS b. Fairfield Fire Company c. Fountaindale Fire Company
- Committee Reports a. Parks & Recreation Committee
- Administrative Business – Borough Manager a. Treasurer’s Report – October 2025 b. 2026 Budget – For Advertisement c. Personnel Manual Update
- Unfinished Business a. Grant Funding Updates b. Vacating portions of Sunshine Trail, Deep Powder Trail and Sunfish Trail – Update c. Fire Tax Distribution Update
- New Business
- Open to the public a. Citizens wishing to comment will be asked to stand up and give their name, address, and organization they represent (if applicable). Impromptu comments are limited to five minutes per individual.
- Adjournment
McSherrystown Borough Council Meeting – 11/12/2025
McSherrystown Borough Council General Meeting Agenda
Wednesday November 12, 2025 at 6:30pm
1. Call to Order
2. Pledge of Allegiance
3. Invocation
4. Attendance Roll Call
5. Approval of October 8, 2025 Meeting Minutes
6. Announcements/Communications
a. Mayor/Police Report
7. Public Comment Period
8. New Business
a. Authorize advertising public notice that the proposed budget is available for public inspection
b. Resolution 2025-04 Traffic Maintenance Agreement
c. Approval of the Expenditures
9. Call for motion to Adjourn
Announcement of Next Public Meeting: The next public meeting of the McSherrystown Borough Council is currently scheduled for Wednesday November 26, 2025 at 6:30pm in the Borough Council Chambers.
Open House – Gettysburg Times
Join Ray on this episode of Open House as he welcomes Wayne Lowman, Publisher of the Gettysburg Times. Hear how the Times continues to shape our community, what’s in store for America 250, and Wayne’s inspiring plans for the future.
18th Annual Foothills Artists Studio Tour in the Fairfield / Orrtanna / Cashtown, PA Area November 22 and 23
Pyle, Anne Finucane, Sarah Maclay, Erin Brown; back row (L-R): Heidi Myers, Jack Handshaw,
Jayne Shord, Jóh Ricci, Daryl Despres, Andrea Finch
Orrtanna, PA – The 18th annual Foothills Artists Studio Tour will be held November 22 and 23, the weekend before Thanksgiving, at various locations in and around the western Adams County (PA) communities of Fairfield, Orrtanna and Cashtown. Fourteen artists will be participating in a special pre-holiday show and sale from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days.
Thirteen returning Foothills Artists are excited to welcome stained glass artist Gretchen Shutt to the tour this year. Eight different studio locations will feature original paintings, pottery, sculpture, woodworking, photography, printmaking, fiber and textile arts, enamels, jewelry, illustration, bookbinding and stained glass. See first-hand where the artists create their work and have the opportunity to buy directly from them. For those interested in making purchases, checks and cash are welcome. Credit cards are accepted by most, but not all, of the artists.
This free tour is self-guided and may be completed in any order. The website, www.foothillsartists.net, includes a map of each studio’s location and street address, as well as links to each artist’s individual website. It also includes biographies and artwork examples for each artist. Several of the artists live and work in historic homes.
The artists:
Erin Brown — Erin Brown Art, 43 Water Street, Fairfield. Erin is an artist who has created whimsical drawings and paintings since graduating from Rhode Island School of Design in 1993. She uses her imagination and nature to inspire her use of color and imagery. She has also focused on capturing the essence of buildings which can be seen in her building portraits.
Daryl Despres — Mountain Woodworks, 59 Ringneck Trail, Carroll Valley. Daryl is a woodworker who has turned his passion into his profession. He creates functional, non-traditional band-sawn boxes using different woods, almost all reclaimed. He prefers to use locally sourced wood or materials given to him by friends.
Andrea Finch – showing at Beech Springs Farm, 784 Mt. Carmel Road, Orrtanna. Andrea creates sculptural quilts of botanical subjects, from realistic to abstract, exploring textile textures. She comes to quilt-making from a different angle, while her botanical obsession began with photographing and creating an arboretum in her yard.
Anne Finucane — showing at Beech Springs Farm, 784 Mt. Carmel Road, Orrtanna. Anne works in a variety of printmaking and other fine art media, and will be showing her linocuts and watercolors on the tour. A long-time organizer and advocate for the arts, her work is consistently accepted into juried exhibitions from DC to NYC.
Jack Handshaw — Hobbit House Pottery, 1575 Mount Hope Road, Fairfield. An award-winning artist for over 45 years, Jack is a potter working in all forms of clay, particularly reduction fired glazed porcelains, raku and redware. He is a juried member of the Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsmen, and has been accepted into numerous juried shows.
Chris Herbert – Rocktop Bookshop and Bindery, 1229 Old Route 30, Cashtown. A graduate of the Clark University School at the Worcester Art Museum, with 27 years of experience in Book Binding, Chris has the skills to help with any book project from restoring a cherished family Bible, to creating a custom gift book for a loved one.
Sarah Maclay – showing at Beech Springs Farm, 784 Mt. Carmel Road, Orrtanna. Sarah has been creating and exhibiting her work for more than 25 years, with a primary focus on landscape painting. Her work lives in collections across the country and reflects the sense of place she has found in south-central Pennsylvania.
Heidi Myers — Haywire Studio, 260 Orrtanna Road, Orrtanna. Heidi is a ceramic artist who has been expressing herself with clay for over twenty years. She enjoys sculpture, slab and hand-building. This year she has continued to explore sgraffito. Heidi’s inspirations can be found in the nature that surrounds her Haywire Studio.
Judy Pyle — showing at Beech Springs Farm, 784 Mt. Carmel Road, Orrtanna. Judy makes jewelry in hand-fabricated silver, torch-fired enamels on copper and fine silver. Her new enamel pieces are wearable sculptures. She has been a life-long art educator, as well as a practicing artist. Her most recent small sculptures — enameled items and other found objects — have been juried into national exhibits.
Jóh Ricci — showing at Mountain Woodworks, 59 Ringneck Trail, Carroll Valley. Jóh is a fiber artist, as well as multi-media artist & instructor who is self-taught in a number of techniques & mediums. A recipient of numerous awards, she is nationally recognized for her artwork. Exhibiting in invitational & juried art shows, her work is included in several private collections, numerous magazines & book publications.
Jayne Shord – Beech Springs Farm, 784 Mt. Carmel Road, Orrtanna. Jayne is a photographer, specializing in garden images from her Beech Springs Farm, as well as other locations around Adams County and from her extensive travels. Her work has received local and national recognition.
Gretchen R. Shutt – 30 Water Street, Fairfield. Gretchen is a contemporary stained glass artist whose works include hanging window panels, suncatchers, kaleidoscopes, flower bouquets, dichroic glass and gemstone jewelry. She has over 40 years experience in the Tiffany-style copper foil technique and often incorporates gemstone and mineral specimens into her work.
Geoffrey Thulin – Blue Orchard Studio, 1013 Old Route 30, Cashtown. Geoffrey is a painter specializing in bold animal imagery, landscapes and abstracts. He works primarily in watercolor and gouache. His award-winning work explores color, pattern and rhythm, and their connection to the spiritual aspect of nature.
Debbie Westmoreland — showing at Erin Brown Art, 43 Water Street, Fairfield. Debbie, a fiber artist, creates needle felted, one-of-a kind scarves, and wall art. Silk becomes a canvas upon which wool fibers are combined with hand stitching and embellishments, giving her designs unique textures, color, and special effects.
Borough of Hanover and Guthrie Memorial Library Announce the Inaugural Guthrie Gala: A Night of Elegance and Purpose
Hanover, PA — The Borough of Hanover and the Guthrie Memorial Library are delighted to invite the public to a spectacular fundraising event — the Guthrie Gala — taking place on Friday, November 21, 2025, at the Hanover Country Club, located at 200 Water Street, Abbottstown, PA. The evening festivities begin with a cocktail hour at 6:00 p.m. followed by dinner at 7:00 p.m. Tickets for the Guthrie Gala are $125 and may be purchased online at GUTHRIE25.givesmart.com.
This year’s Gala will feature an enchanting masquerade theme, inviting guests to don their finest attire and most intriguing disguises for an unforgettable evening of elegant dining, dancing, and both live and silent auctions. Music will be provided by DJ Kevin B, setting the tone for a night of celebration and community support.
The event’s Presenting Sponsor is Brightspeed, with Blue Ridge Holdings serving as the Gold Sponsor, and Members 1st Federal Credit Union as the Silver Sponsor. Bronze Sponsors include Ehrhart Law, Hanover Auto Team, the Hanover Home Association, and the Home Association of McSherrystown.
Guests will enjoy a surf and turf dinner featuring roast strip loin garnished with jumbo shrimp, accompanied by haricot vert and roasted red potatoes.
For available sponsorship opportunities or to donate to the silent auction, contact Nia’Kia Cheese, Borough Fundraising and Development Manager, at 717-637-3877 ext. 1027 or via email at NCheese@HanoverBoroughPA.gov.
The Guthrie Gala supports the mission of the Guthrie Memorial Library, a cornerstone of the Hanover community dedicated to providing free access to information, lifelong learning opportunities, and engaging programs for residents of all ages. Proceeds from the event will help fund vital library initiatives, including youth literacy programs, technology upgrades, and community outreach efforts — ensuring that the library continues to educate, inspire, and connect generations to come.
Borough of Hanover Vision Statement
“We envision a thriving, welcoming community appealing to individuals, families and businesses where best-practices shape delivery of exceptional municipal services and citizen engagement. By providing efficient, high-quality services, we support a clean and safe environment, inclusive recreation, and a vibrant, drug-free downtown for all.”
The Borough of Hanover, York County, Pennsylvania, was incorporated in 1815. The Borough serves the public through stewardship, government, development and improvements of public assets including water/sewer/stormwater & refuse utilities, parks & recreation facilities, the Hanover Market House, the Guthrie Memorial Library, as well as Code Enforcement, Police & Fire Departments. It is governed by the Borough Council, overseen by the Borough Manager, and staffed by administrative, public service, public works, sewer, water, refuse and engineering professionals. Known as the Snack Food Capital of the World, Hanover is home, not only to numerous food industries, but also to manufacturing, technology, commercial sales, and services. Hanover Borough offices, located at 33 Frederick Street, can be reached at 717-637-3877 or by email at Info@HanoverBoroughPA.gov. More information is available at www.HanoverBoroughPA.gov.
Gettysburg Borough Council Meeting – 11/10/2025
Borough of Gettysburg
Council Business Meeting Agenda
Monday, November 10, 2025 – 7:00 PM
I. Council – Call to Order
II. Moment of Silence and Pledge of Allegiance
III. Welcome and Opening Remarks
IV. Announcements
An executive session was conducted by the Borough Council of the Borough of Gettysburg immediately following the adjournment of its 2026 budget work session held on October 27, 2025 consistent with section 708(a)(1) and section 708(a)(5) of the Sunshine Act.
An executive session will be conducted by the Borough Council immediately following the adjournment of this evening’s monthly general business public meeting consistent with section 708(a)(1) and section 708(a)(5) of the Sunshine Act for the following purposes: (1) to provide updated information and to discuss matters involving the employment or appointment of current, prospective or former Borough employees, the terms and conditions of employment, and the evaluation of performance of current Borough employees; and (2) to review and discuss matters of Borough business which, if conducted in public, could lead to the disclosure of information or confidentiality protected by law.
V. Approval of Agenda and Minutes – Council
A motion to approve the November 10, 2025 agenda as presented.
A motion to approve minutes of the Borough Council Business Meeting on October 14, 2025; Council Public Hearing (Zoning Ordinance) on October 27, 2025; and the Borough Council Budget Work Sessions held on October 20 and October 27, 2025, and November 3, 2025 as presented.
VI. Nomination, Selection and Appointment of Eligible Person to fill Vacancy on Borough Council
A. Nominations and selection of an eligible person to fill the vacant office of member of Borough Council of the Borough of Gettysburg representing the 3rd Ward of the Borough in order to fill the vacancy in that elective office due to the death of Judith Butterfield.
B. A motion to adopt Resolution No. 111025-1 appointing ____________________ as a member of the Borough Council of the Borough of Gettysburg representing the 3rd Ward of the Borough in order to fill the vacancy in that elective office as a result of the death of Judith Butterfield, with such appointment expiring on January 5th, 2026.
C. A motion to elect and appoint ____________________ as the Vice-President of Borough Council of the Borough of Gettysburg.
VII. Public Comment (Restricted to Items Listed on the Agenda)
VIII. Current and Old Business
A. Planning Department
1. Planning /Zoning/Code Enforcement
a. Departmental Report
A motion to authorize the publication of a proposed ordinance for consideration of intended enactment at the December 8, 2025 monthly general business meeting of the Borough Council, of the proposed comprehensive rezoning and amendment of the Gettysburg Borough Zoning Ordinance and Zoning Map.
2. Historic & Environmental Preservation
a. Departmental Report
b. Motions Needing Council Action
Administrative Approvals since September 17, 2025 HARB Meeting:
Council will review the following Administrative Approvals since the September 17, 2025 HARB Meeting. No vote required.
COA-250081, MINOR PROJECT – 226 York Street – Doris Harman Remove existing wood stockage fence and replace with ‘in-kind’ wood stockage fence in same location. All applications must meet the Secretary of the Interior Guidelines.
COA-250079 Minor Project – 227 Baltimore Street – Amy C. Mozuch-Dell Replace existing rubber roof and asphalt shingle roof with ‘in-kind’ materials and color match. All applications must meet the Secretary of the Interior Guidelines.
COA-250080 Minor Project – 524 S. Washington Street – William J. Adair Replace existing rear stairs at the rear of the building with ‘in-kind’ materials with Timbertek treads and an aluminum vinyl railing and add ADA handrails. All applications must meet the Secretary of the Interior Guidelines.
HARB Motions from October 15, 2025:
Council will consider individually the following motions to accept the recommendations of the Borough of Gettysburg Historic Architectural Review Board (HARB) following its review of Certificate of Appropriateness project applications presented to the Board on their Consent Agenda at their October 15, 2025 meeting:
There were no Consent Agenda Items at this time.
Council will consider individually the following motions to accept the recommendations of the Borough of Gettysburg Historic Architectural Review Board (HARB) following its review of Certificate of Appropriateness project applications presented to the Board under New Business at their October 15, 2025:
A motion to accept the HARB recommendation for COA-250082 MAJOR PROJECT: 125 S. Washington Street – Adams County Arts Council for the façade maintenance project to include the repair and in-kind replacement of the deteriorated wood and façade elements of the front canopy conditioned that the materials used match the existing canopy as presented.
A motion to accept the HARB recommendation for COA-250075 MAJOR PROJECT: 162 York Street – HAP Co Realty for the proposed exterior façade work to include the installation of new architectural asphalt roof shingles, repair or replacement in-kind of the existing windows with previously recommended two-overtwo wood-clad windows, repointing of the brick masonry with lime-based mortar, installation of a projecting sign in the mortar joints, and the removal of the nonhistoric front storm door and canopy awning.
B. Parking Department
1. Departmental Report
2. Motions Needing Council Action
A motion to enact Ordinance No. 1496-25 amending Chapter 15, Part 10, Section 1003 of the Code of Ordinances of the Borough of Gettysburg, for the purpose of designating certain northernmost portions of Hillcrest Place (on both sides of that public street) as residential parking permit street areas.
A motion to enact Ordinance No. 1497-25, amending Chapter 15, Part 4, sections 406.2.A. and 406.2.B. of the Code of Ordinances of the Borough of Gettysburg, in order to designate the entire second block of York Street (on both sides of that public street street), located between Stratton Street and Liberty Street, as areas designated for on-street metered payment parking subject to a twelve-hour maximum parking time limit.
A motion to set a temporary daily rate of $18.00 for parking in the Borough’s Racehorse Alley Parking Garage on Saturday, December 6, 2025, during “A Gettysburg Christmas Festival” holiday special event sponsored by Main Street Gettysburg, Inc.
C. Public Works Department
1. Departmental Report
2. Motions Needing Council Action
D. Borough Engineer
1. Engineer Report
2. Motions Needing Council Action
E. Police Department
1. Departmental Report
F. Office of the Manager/Treasurer
1. Borough Secretary’s Report
2. Borough Manager’s Report
3. Motions Needing Council Action
A motion to approve all bills and payrolls for the month as presented.
A motion to authorize the Borough Secretary, Sara L. Stull, to give notice and to cause the same to be published that the proposed budget, providing an annual estimate of revenues and an annual estimate of expenditures for fiscal year 2026, has been prepared and will be made available for public inspection for a period of not less than ten (10) days commencing on Monday, November 24, 2025 and ending at the close of business on Monday, December 8, 2025, prior to the completion and adoption of the budget for fiscal year 2026 by the Borough Council.
A motion to authorize the preparation and finalization of a proposed resolution, for consideration and intended adoption at the next monthly general business meeting of the Borough Council to be held on Monday, December 8, 2025, for the purpose of setting, updating and confirming the Borough’s fees and charges for the issuance of licenses, permits and the provision of municipal services in fiscal year 2026.
A motion to authorize the solicitor to prepare, finalize and publish a proposed ordinance for intended enactment at the next monthly general business meeting of the Borough Council to be held on December 8, 2025 for the purposes of fixing the real property tax rate for the Borough of Gettysburg for fiscal year 2026 at 4.7702 mills, the occupation tax rate at 30 mills, and the fire protection services appropriations tax rate at .5000 mills.
A motion to adopt Resolution No. 111025-2 for the purpose of appointing Maher Duessel, a firm of certified public accountants registered in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, as the independent auditor of the Borough of Gettysburg during fiscal year 2026, in order to perform the examination and audit of the accounting records of the Borough for fiscal year 2025.
IX. Reports
A. Liaison Reports
1. MSG Main Street Gettysburg
2. GARA Gettysburg Area Recreation Authority
3. GMA Gettysburg Municipal Authority
4. SAHGB Steinwehr Avenue Heart of Gettysburg Battlefield
5. ACBA Adams County Boroughs Association
6. ACCOG Adams County Council of Governments
7. HABPI Health Adams Bicycle Pedestrian, Inc.
8. ACTPO Adams County Transportation Planning Organization
9. Trail Feasibility Study
B. Other Reports
1. Recycling Report
2. Gettysburg Fire Department Report
3. Adams County EMS Report
X. Elected Official’s Comments
A. Mayor Rita Frealing
B. Peter Bales
C. Alisha Sanders
D. Chris Berger
E. Patricia Lawson
F. Chad-Alan Carr
G. Vice President
H. President Matthew Moon
XI. Public Comment
XII. Adjournment
XIII. Executive Session
Destination Gettysburg survey shows residents find value in tourism industry
Gettysburg, PA – A survey conducted by Destination Gettysburg found that most local residents believe tourism has a positive impact on the Adams County community.
From April through May, Destination Gettysburg issued a survey to gauge residents’ sentiment toward the Adams County tourism industry. The anonymous 11-question survey was fully completed by 313 respondents. Most respondents identified themselves as Gettysburg area residents who do not work in the local hospitality/tourism industry.
The survey posed questions regarding tourism’s economic impact, whether residents visit local attractions, and how familiar residents are with Destination Gettysburg’s work. Key findings include:
- Nearly 96% of respondents agree that tourism and hospitality industry jobs provide economic value to the Adams County community.
- About 91% expressed belief that tourism and visitors have a positive or very positive impact on the Adams County community.
- About 90% said they were familiar or somewhat familiar with Destination Gettysburg’s work to promote Adams County to visitors.
- About 70% said they always or usually engage with the tourism industry when friends and family visit.
- Nearly 60% said they believe Destination Gettysburg’s marketing efforts have a positive impact on the community.
“This feedback gives our team a clear understanding of where Adams County residents stand and how they feel about tourism’s economic value, impact on quality of life, and the hospitality workforce,” Destination Gettysburg President and CEO Karl Pietrzak said.
Some respondents chose to share additional comments in the open-ended section of the survey. Whether they expressed pride in the place where they live or pointed out issues facing the community, respondents showed they have an active interest and a significant stake in tourism.
The most common positive comments highlighted the area’s variety of restaurants and family-friendly activities.
“The tourism industry allows locals to have access to many arts, culture, dining and events that we wouldn’t find at a small town like Gettysburg and a rural area like Adams County,” one respondent said.
Others shared concerns about the impact of visitors. The most common complaints were regarding traffic and parking.
“The traffic and crowds in town can often lead my family and I out to the surrounding areas when we choose to go out,” another respondent wrote. “I do appreciate that I get to enjoy Gettysburg year round however it does feel like sometimes we don’t get to enjoy some of the best aspects of our town as selfish as that may be.”
Overall, the resident sentiment survey indicates that the local community understands the importance of the travel and tourism industry to the health, strength and development of Gettysburg and Adams County.
“We appreciate those who took the time to share their feedback with us,” Pietrzak said. “This feedback has not gone unheard, and we look forward to using this input to shape Destination Gettysburg’s vision for the future.”
Destination Gettysburg plans to issue the survey again in approximately 18 months.
The summarized survey report can be found at https://www.gettysburgtourismworks.com/residentsurvey2025.html.
2025 Adams County Community Foundation Giving Spree
Join us for live coverage of the 2025 Adams County Community Foundation Giving Spree. We’ll be talking with the nonprofit organization that make our community a better place. To support your favorite nonprofits visit accfgivingspree.org to give online all day Thursday November 6th!
“For 15 years, the Adams County Community Foundation Giving Spree has been a powerful day of giving for our community — a time when neighbors come together to support local nonprofits and give them a financial boost.
Thanks to the incredible generosity of Adams Countians, the Giving Spree has become one of the largest per capita giving days in the nation!”
Borough of Hanover Releases Statement Regarding Jaycees Halloween Parade
Hanover, PA — “Hanover Borough has received a multitude of correspondence regarding the Hanover Jaycees Halloween parade. We thank those who reached out to share their deeply felt concerns. In addition, we want to assure you that your message has been heard and that Hanover Borough elected officials and staff share your sentiments regarding the imagery associated with Nazi Germany which was depicted on the St. Joseph’s School float.
The portrayal of such a hateful symbol is not reflective of Hanover Borough or of our community values and does not align with our commitment to fostering an environment of safety, respect, and inclusivity for all. We recognize the pain and distress that such imagery can cause and stand firmly against hatred in any form.
We met with Fr. Michael Rothan, the Pastor of St. Joseph’s Church, who likewise condemned this symbol on the float and conveyed his remorse for the process failures which unfortunately led to its inclusion. He also expressed his deepest apologies to all those who were justifiably horrified by it.
As a Borough, we will also look to the future and continue to build a community defined by understanding, compassion, unity and forgiveness, in which we all stand together in rejecting hatred, antisemitism and bigotry in every form.
Thank you once again for your advocacy and commitment to the well-being of our community. We continue to strive to ensure that Hanover remains a place where all residents can feel safe and respected.” -Borough of Hanover