When they contain information which is news worthy rather than just analysis, NewsLanc's often publishes correspondence for a few days under News & Commentary before moving then to Letters.
NewsLanc is meant to be a cooperative of knowledgeable individuals sharing their expertise and insights. Without such participation, it could be little more than a blog.
Thursday, December 4, 2008
LETTER: Let trash authority pay
I noted in a recent story that you said in part, "…funding to conduct a study to determine whether a fourth boiler should be added to the county's incinerator in Conoy Township."
1) To be clear – there are two governmental bodies in this story – Lancaster County and Lancaster County Solid Waste Management Authority (LCSWMA) an independent authority.
2) The independent trash authority owns the incinerator in Conoy Township – not the county as stated in the story.
3) Since this authority owns the incinerator why are they coming before the county commissioners for this grant application? Why can't the authority apply for it directly?
4) The grant apparently has a 20% matching grant requirement , is the cash-rich, trash authority going to be paying that part of the study? This is really the most important of the questions!
1) To be clear – there are two governmental bodies in this story – Lancaster County and Lancaster County Solid Waste Management Authority (LCSWMA) an independent authority.
2) The independent trash authority owns the incinerator in Conoy Township – not the county as stated in the story.
3) Since this authority owns the incinerator why are they coming before the county commissioners for this grant application? Why can't the authority apply for it directly?
4) The grant apparently has a 20% matching grant requirement , is the cash-rich, trash authority going to be paying that part of the study? This is really the most important of the questions!
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
LETTER: Library System's luxury offices
Do you know that the Library System is paying $130,000 for high end rent for their offices? That is outrageous over the next 10 years!!
Why can they not find more reasonable housing for their offices?
Why can they not find more reasonable housing for their offices?
Commissioners approve funding for incinerator study
At their Wednesday meeting, the commissioners approved a grant application to the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection for funding to conduct a study to determine whether a fourth boiler should be added to the county's incinerator in Conoy Township.
Thomas Adams, Recycling Manager with the Lancaster County Solid Waste Management Authority, said that a new boiler could have a capacity up to 50% higher than the current boilers (400 ton current vs. 600 ton new).
He said the study would help determine the exact benefits and logistics of such a move.
The study will cost $95,740, 80% of which is state funding with a 20% local match.
Also, Wednesday, James Cowhey, the Executive Director of the Lancaster County Planning Commission repeated that the $12 million renovations to the Lancaster Amtrak station are scheduled to begin "by Spring."
And Suan Hauer, Administrator of the Library System of Lancaster County asked the Commissioners to reconsider their $150,000 funding cut for the library system.
She suggested that the cut comes at a bad time and that the libraries will find a way to make up the funding should the commissioners find themselves willing to reinstate the funding.
She and other library officials will argue their case at a budget work session on Thursday at 2:30 p.m. on the fifth floor of the county courthouse.
Thomas Adams, Recycling Manager with the Lancaster County Solid Waste Management Authority, said that a new boiler could have a capacity up to 50% higher than the current boilers (400 ton current vs. 600 ton new).
He said the study would help determine the exact benefits and logistics of such a move.
The study will cost $95,740, 80% of which is state funding with a 20% local match.
Also, Wednesday, James Cowhey, the Executive Director of the Lancaster County Planning Commission repeated that the $12 million renovations to the Lancaster Amtrak station are scheduled to begin "by Spring."
And Suan Hauer, Administrator of the Library System of Lancaster County asked the Commissioners to reconsider their $150,000 funding cut for the library system.
She suggested that the cut comes at a bad time and that the libraries will find a way to make up the funding should the commissioners find themselves willing to reinstate the funding.
She and other library officials will argue their case at a budget work session on Thursday at 2:30 p.m. on the fifth floor of the county courthouse.
LETTER: "Italian/Jewish" - It's taste that counts.
Italian/Jewish - my only concern - does it taste good?!
If it means anything - 'Muffin Street' is where the library system buys their rugala. Why don't you visit and give your valued opinion on the quality of the product. How much rugala does $87 buy?
If it means anything - 'Muffin Street' is where the library system buys their rugala. Why don't you visit and give your valued opinion on the quality of the product. How much rugala does $87 buy?
LETTER: Jewish or Italian?
I don't know anything about the library, library system, or how they operate; however, I must set the record straight...rugelach (there are quite a few accepted spellings) is a pastry/delicacy of Jewish descent. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rugelach
I might also add, as a self-proclaimed aficionado, it is very tough to find a decent piece of rugelach, as with most other good/high-end pastries, here in Lancaster County...the birthplace of the 'doughy roll'. A good sign are those that are sold by the pound, not by the piece. Locally I would recommend Binderup's and La Dolce Vita...yes that is an ITALIAN bakery serving a JEWISH treat.
I might also add, as a self-proclaimed aficionado, it is very tough to find a decent piece of rugelach, as with most other good/high-end pastries, here in Lancaster County...the birthplace of the 'doughy roll'. A good sign are those that are sold by the pound, not by the piece. Locally I would recommend Binderup's and La Dolce Vita...yes that is an ITALIAN bakery serving a JEWISH treat.
LETTER: Fund the libraries, not the Library System
Rugala is an Italian pastry and other things I learned from the Library Systems Budget
I learned that Rugala is an Italian pastry from the Lancaster Library System. [Editor's note: The System provides services for the libraries.] No, not from a novel but from an expense listings while examining their budget a few years ago when they were campaigning for a dedicated library tax.
Yes that's right, I discovered multiple instances of the library system's bureaucrats buying this fancy treat with our tax dollars – does this sound like someone who having trouble with money? ($67 and $87 seems like an awful lot of rugala but then what does this simple dutch boy know about such things?)
I guess buying your own rugala doesn't occur to these bureaucrats because they also had regular deliveries of coffee and spring water that every other Lancaster County government office worker buys out of their own pockets.
In a six month period they spent over $1,000 on TWO occasions to have a lavish meals at the Olde Greenfield Inn. In another example, in April of 2003, the Library System has a surplus of $100,000 – what should they do with that money? According to their meeting minutes:
'She (Shannon Pierce, bookkeeper for the library system) reported that this is the first year the Library System will have a surplus. It could be distributed to member libraries, but it would negatively impact their local effort, or it could be used to move the System office.'
So rather than give money to libraries where the kids, moms, dads and business people actually use books and receives services – the library system took that $100,000 and fixed up an office space that includes 585 square feet for each of the 23 employees! They also signed a lease that committed them for over a million dollars for the 10 years and ever increasing condo fees from High Properties in their bookless Greenfield offices.
When Lancaster County taxpayers fork over $2 million to the Library System do they realize that very few of those dollars actually reach the libraries themselves? For instance, Lancaster City's Library on Duke Street is in serious need of funds to renovate and improve a well-used and needed building. Meanwhile, the Library system bureaucrats live in relatively luxurious digs out in the country with rugala served to them – thanks to your tax dollars.
At tonight's budget meeting, the commissioner heard various library supporters ask for more money from county taxpayers that would go to the Library System. My suggestion is that the commissioners allocate the $2 million NOT to the Library System but to each of the various libraries throughout the county. Then let the Library System justify their existence to the member libraries. I know when I see the conditions in the downtown library, that they are working hard to provide needed services to people under trying circumstances. When you give money to people like this – they will not only be grateful for the money but will spend it wiser than those who are snacking on rugala.
I learned that Rugala is an Italian pastry from the Lancaster Library System. [Editor's note: The System provides services for the libraries.] No, not from a novel but from an expense listings while examining their budget a few years ago when they were campaigning for a dedicated library tax.
Yes that's right, I discovered multiple instances of the library system's bureaucrats buying this fancy treat with our tax dollars – does this sound like someone who having trouble with money? ($67 and $87 seems like an awful lot of rugala but then what does this simple dutch boy know about such things?)
I guess buying your own rugala doesn't occur to these bureaucrats because they also had regular deliveries of coffee and spring water that every other Lancaster County government office worker buys out of their own pockets.
In a six month period they spent over $1,000 on TWO occasions to have a lavish meals at the Olde Greenfield Inn. In another example, in April of 2003, the Library System has a surplus of $100,000 – what should they do with that money? According to their meeting minutes:
'She (Shannon Pierce, bookkeeper for the library system) reported that this is the first year the Library System will have a surplus. It could be distributed to member libraries, but it would negatively impact their local effort, or it could be used to move the System office.'
So rather than give money to libraries where the kids, moms, dads and business people actually use books and receives services – the library system took that $100,000 and fixed up an office space that includes 585 square feet for each of the 23 employees! They also signed a lease that committed them for over a million dollars for the 10 years and ever increasing condo fees from High Properties in their bookless Greenfield offices.
When Lancaster County taxpayers fork over $2 million to the Library System do they realize that very few of those dollars actually reach the libraries themselves? For instance, Lancaster City's Library on Duke Street is in serious need of funds to renovate and improve a well-used and needed building. Meanwhile, the Library system bureaucrats live in relatively luxurious digs out in the country with rugala served to them – thanks to your tax dollars.
At tonight's budget meeting, the commissioner heard various library supporters ask for more money from county taxpayers that would go to the Library System. My suggestion is that the commissioners allocate the $2 million NOT to the Library System but to each of the various libraries throughout the county. Then let the Library System justify their existence to the member libraries. I know when I see the conditions in the downtown library, that they are working hard to provide needed services to people under trying circumstances. When you give money to people like this – they will not only be grateful for the money but will spend it wiser than those who are snacking on rugala.
Library funding top public concern at county budget presentation
The County Commissioners held their annual public budget presentation on Tuesday night and the top concern expressed by those in attendance concerned funding for the county's public libraries.
At issue is a proposed $150,000 cut in funding for the county library system. The county currently funds the libraries at a cost of $2.3 million dollars a year. In the proposed 2009 budget, that funding would decrease to $2.15 million.
P.J. Reilly paraphrased Susan Hauer, Administrator of the Lancaster Library System, in the Nov. 28 Intelligencer Journal as follows:
"If the commissioners stick with the proposed 2009 appropriation of $2.1 million, Hauer said the library system will be short-changed and the member libraries likely will get no county funds."
Unless she was speaking in hyperbole, in want of county funding, it is curious that the "system" would so readily pass that loss along to each of the individual libraries, where the end delivery of programs takes place.
The fact that the county is proposing cuts in funding to the system at all was enough to prompt at least half a dozen library administrators to ask the Commissioners to reconsider.
"Your public libraries in this county are preventative maintenance," said Deb Beisel, Executive Director of the Elizabethtown Public Library. "Every penny spent on libraries is going back into the community."
Other administrators spoke of positive programs at their libraries that might suffer like reading for children, and financial literacy for adults.
Hauer noted that the library system has been flat funded since since 2000.
Debra Rosser-Hogben, Executive Director of the Lancaster Public Library said, "Eventually we're not going to be able to draw any more from our endowment."
Commissioner Scott Martin told NewsLanc that everyone has had to make sacrifices to avoid raising taxes and that, despite the value of libraries, they are not a mandated service.
Chair Dennis Stuckey said that he and his fellow commissioners are not requiring the library system to cut back on funding for programs at the individual libraries.
Stuckey added that he will listen to the comments of library advocates at the remaining budget hearing and take their comments under advisement.
"I'm interested in hearing what they have to say. We haven't closed the door completely yet," he said.
The commissioners will be having their next budget worksession on Thursday, Dec. 4 at 2:30 p.m.
The county budget as a whole will appear before the commissioners for a vote at their regular meeting on Wednesday, Dec. 17.
At issue is a proposed $150,000 cut in funding for the county library system. The county currently funds the libraries at a cost of $2.3 million dollars a year. In the proposed 2009 budget, that funding would decrease to $2.15 million.
P.J. Reilly paraphrased Susan Hauer, Administrator of the Lancaster Library System, in the Nov. 28 Intelligencer Journal as follows:
"If the commissioners stick with the proposed 2009 appropriation of $2.1 million, Hauer said the library system will be short-changed and the member libraries likely will get no county funds."
Unless she was speaking in hyperbole, in want of county funding, it is curious that the "system" would so readily pass that loss along to each of the individual libraries, where the end delivery of programs takes place.
The fact that the county is proposing cuts in funding to the system at all was enough to prompt at least half a dozen library administrators to ask the Commissioners to reconsider.
"Your public libraries in this county are preventative maintenance," said Deb Beisel, Executive Director of the Elizabethtown Public Library. "Every penny spent on libraries is going back into the community."
Other administrators spoke of positive programs at their libraries that might suffer like reading for children, and financial literacy for adults.
Hauer noted that the library system has been flat funded since since 2000.
Debra Rosser-Hogben, Executive Director of the Lancaster Public Library said, "Eventually we're not going to be able to draw any more from our endowment."
Commissioner Scott Martin told NewsLanc that everyone has had to make sacrifices to avoid raising taxes and that, despite the value of libraries, they are not a mandated service.
Chair Dennis Stuckey said that he and his fellow commissioners are not requiring the library system to cut back on funding for programs at the individual libraries.
Stuckey added that he will listen to the comments of library advocates at the remaining budget hearing and take their comments under advisement.
"I'm interested in hearing what they have to say. We haven't closed the door completely yet," he said.
The commissioners will be having their next budget worksession on Thursday, Dec. 4 at 2:30 p.m.
The county budget as a whole will appear before the commissioners for a vote at their regular meeting on Wednesday, Dec. 17.
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
LETTER: A good move!
The Dec. 2 Intell editorial, 'Blurred Vision', on Lancaster Square presented the idea that the former Hess Department Store Building could be used as a new home for the North Museum of Natural History & Science. This location would place North Museum in close proximity to other museums, such as the Heritage Museum, Quilt Museum, Demuth House, Lancaster Art Museum, Hole in the Wall Puppet Theater and Museum, as well as the Academy of Music and Central Market. It would be directly across from Binn's Park.
Even though North Museum is a non-profit, it would bring people downtown who would eat in nearby restaurants and shop in downtown stores. It certainly would bring families with young children into center city who do not ordinarily do so.
...An initiative for moving into the Hess building had been made several years ago, but several concerns involving ownership rights to the building surfaced and the proposal was tabled. I am hoping that these concerns can be resolved in order to make it possible for North Museum, that has been seeking a new home for several years, to relocate into the Hess building.
This move would not only give the Museum greater access and visibility, but would provide room to display more of its current collection and to expand.
Even though North Museum is a non-profit, it would bring people downtown who would eat in nearby restaurants and shop in downtown stores. It certainly would bring families with young children into center city who do not ordinarily do so.
...An initiative for moving into the Hess building had been made several years ago, but several concerns involving ownership rights to the building surfaced and the proposal was tabled. I am hoping that these concerns can be resolved in order to make it possible for North Museum, that has been seeking a new home for several years, to relocate into the Hess building.
This move would not only give the Museum greater access and visibility, but would provide room to display more of its current collection and to expand.
Amtrak station renovations to start in March
Additional abatement work and bureaucratic red tape have pushed the cost of the renovations to the Amtrak station $136,000 above the previously-projected $400,000 in county share of the $12 million project, county planners told the County Commissioners Tuesday morning.
Although the $136,000 is above the previous projections, it is covered by the proposed 2009 budget, according to James Cowhey, Executive Director of the Lancaster County Planning Commission.
Showing a rare indication of frustration with the delays in the process, Cowhey said, "I have to be honest. [Amtrak] has been very difficult to work with."
Cowhey said that he does not expect any more cost increases for the project.
Construction bids for the renovations are due by February 13 with a notice to proceed expected in March, said Assistant County Transportation Planner Chris Neumann.
Although the $136,000 is above the previous projections, it is covered by the proposed 2009 budget, according to James Cowhey, Executive Director of the Lancaster County Planning Commission.
Showing a rare indication of frustration with the delays in the process, Cowhey said, "I have to be honest. [Amtrak] has been very difficult to work with."
Cowhey said that he does not expect any more cost increases for the project.
Construction bids for the renovations are due by February 13 with a notice to proceed expected in March, said Assistant County Transportation Planner Chris Neumann.
Newspaper advertisements off everywhere
According to an Associated Press article of Dec. 2, newspaper advertising revenue dropped by 18 percent in the third quarter of 2008. The data supports NewsLanc's observations about the lack of display advertisements running in the Lancaster Newspapers.
According to the report, print ad revenue dropped 19.3 percent. Online ad revenue only fell by 3%, although Internet revenue had been growing by double-digits ever since 2004.
It is fortunate that major employer Lancaster Newspapers Inc. has profitable investments in coal and other enterprises. Otherwise it might not be able to put off major reductions that have taken place elsewhere, such as the elimination of the evening New Era.
According to the report, print ad revenue dropped 19.3 percent. Online ad revenue only fell by 3%, although Internet revenue had been growing by double-digits ever since 2004.
It is fortunate that major employer Lancaster Newspapers Inc. has profitable investments in coal and other enterprises. Otherwise it might not be able to put off major reductions that have taken place elsewhere, such as the elimination of the evening New Era.
Deja vu "Blurred vision"
The Dec. 3 Intelligencer Journal editorial is aptly headed "Blurred vision." It refers to the inception of the misbegotten Lancaster Square Project, conceived despite ample evidence at the time of a lack of downtown market for the 220 room Hilton Hotel and for the Hess Department Store.
Due to low occupancy, the hotel entered foreclosure, lost its Hilton franchise and has struggled ever since. The department store closed its doors within two years. Prominent members of the local business community had predicted what occurred.
"Blurred vision" may also apply to the current development of the Convention Center and Marriott Hotel. Not only have experienced business leaders predicted dire outcomes, but a feasibility study by one of the leading consultants in the world predicted huge annual losses for convention center and hotel alike.
The root of the "blurred vision" in both cases is the the failure of local leaders to understand the strengths and limitations of the City. They continuously perceive Lancaster as though it were the economic capital of the region when, in fact, it is dwarfed by Philadelphia, Baltimore, Harrisburg, and even nearby Reading.
Downtown Lancaster is not going to attract office tenants from outside the region.
The Watt & Shand site is too small and streets too congested. There is no Interstate access. There are few, and sometimes no, scheduled commercial flights from the airport
Tourists choose to stay nearer the Amish. Most commercial travelers are making calls outside the city and thus have no reason to come downtown.
The decision making pertaining to Lancaster Square was made in an honorable context with input from the thirty to forty major businesses of the day and based on studies performed by national experts. Alas, none of this applies to the Convention Center Project, a monument to greed, power, bullying, waste and possibly corruption.
"Clear vision" requires seeing Lancaster City for what it is and building upon its strengths. Efforts in promoting the arts have proven successful. However, the very best opportunity is the expansion of the Pennsylvania Academy of Music (PAM) into a world class music campus, in part by absorbing the former Hilton and current Brunswick Hotel as dormitories, cafeteria, practice rooms, and student center.
Due to low occupancy, the hotel entered foreclosure, lost its Hilton franchise and has struggled ever since. The department store closed its doors within two years. Prominent members of the local business community had predicted what occurred.
"Blurred vision" may also apply to the current development of the Convention Center and Marriott Hotel. Not only have experienced business leaders predicted dire outcomes, but a feasibility study by one of the leading consultants in the world predicted huge annual losses for convention center and hotel alike.
The root of the "blurred vision" in both cases is the the failure of local leaders to understand the strengths and limitations of the City. They continuously perceive Lancaster as though it were the economic capital of the region when, in fact, it is dwarfed by Philadelphia, Baltimore, Harrisburg, and even nearby Reading.
Downtown Lancaster is not going to attract office tenants from outside the region.
The Watt & Shand site is too small and streets too congested. There is no Interstate access. There are few, and sometimes no, scheduled commercial flights from the airport
Tourists choose to stay nearer the Amish. Most commercial travelers are making calls outside the city and thus have no reason to come downtown.
The decision making pertaining to Lancaster Square was made in an honorable context with input from the thirty to forty major businesses of the day and based on studies performed by national experts. Alas, none of this applies to the Convention Center Project, a monument to greed, power, bullying, waste and possibly corruption.
"Clear vision" requires seeing Lancaster City for what it is and building upon its strengths. Efforts in promoting the arts have proven successful. However, the very best opportunity is the expansion of the Pennsylvania Academy of Music (PAM) into a world class music campus, in part by absorbing the former Hilton and current Brunswick Hotel as dormitories, cafeteria, practice rooms, and student center.
City eyes tax hike, Gray won't rule out layoffs
City council and guests received an overview of the factors driving the 5% hike in city taxes under the proposed 2009 budget on Monday night.
It's the economy, stupid.
At least that's where Mayor Rick Gray and City Business Administrator Patrick Hopkins pin most of the blame.
"We're definitely seeing an impact from the national economy on our local revenues," said Hopkins.
Gray brought up "unfunded mandates" from the state and federal governments, and also noted the high number of not-for-profit organizations located in the city.
"We're probably 30% tax-exempt," Gray said. He added, "It's logical that most of them are located in the city" but went on to call it a burden on taxpayers and said that the state and federal governments should provide some tax relief.
Hopkins said the city has "been able to pretty much hold the line on expenses." In fact, total expenditures have risen only 1.8% above the 2008 budget, according to the figures he presented.
Instead, the problem is on the revenue side of the equation.
Sources of projected loss include: $300,000 (or a 37% decrease) in revenue from building permits, $450,000 (a 50% decrease) from interest earnings on the city's reserves, and a 10% drop from 2008 in revenues from the real estate transfer tax.
If the city were to balance the budget without tapping reserves, a tax increase of 25% would be necessary, according to Hopkins.
Instead, the city is hiking taxes 5% and tapping $3.6 million from its reserves to make up the deficit.
Hopkins stressed that the city probably won't require all of the $3.6 million, but it's being budgeted for just in case.
The 5% tax increase means that a median city wage-earner ($36,500/year) owning a median-value house ($76,000) can expect to see his/her city taxes increase by a total of $39 in 2009.
To cut costs, the city is eliminating 11 full-time positions for 2009 and is capping all salary increases for both unionized and non-unionized employees at 3%.
Ominously, Gray noted: "There's no guarantee that there won't be layoffs this year."
The proposed 2009 budget can be found here (pdf). (Hint: after reading the Mayor's Message, skip to page 29).
It's the economy, stupid.
At least that's where Mayor Rick Gray and City Business Administrator Patrick Hopkins pin most of the blame.
"We're definitely seeing an impact from the national economy on our local revenues," said Hopkins.
Gray brought up "unfunded mandates" from the state and federal governments, and also noted the high number of not-for-profit organizations located in the city.
"We're probably 30% tax-exempt," Gray said. He added, "It's logical that most of them are located in the city" but went on to call it a burden on taxpayers and said that the state and federal governments should provide some tax relief.
Hopkins said the city has "been able to pretty much hold the line on expenses." In fact, total expenditures have risen only 1.8% above the 2008 budget, according to the figures he presented.
Instead, the problem is on the revenue side of the equation.
Sources of projected loss include: $300,000 (or a 37% decrease) in revenue from building permits, $450,000 (a 50% decrease) from interest earnings on the city's reserves, and a 10% drop from 2008 in revenues from the real estate transfer tax.
If the city were to balance the budget without tapping reserves, a tax increase of 25% would be necessary, according to Hopkins.
Instead, the city is hiking taxes 5% and tapping $3.6 million from its reserves to make up the deficit.
Hopkins stressed that the city probably won't require all of the $3.6 million, but it's being budgeted for just in case.
The 5% tax increase means that a median city wage-earner ($36,500/year) owning a median-value house ($76,000) can expect to see his/her city taxes increase by a total of $39 in 2009.
To cut costs, the city is eliminating 11 full-time positions for 2009 and is capping all salary increases for both unionized and non-unionized employees at 3%.
Ominously, Gray noted: "There's no guarantee that there won't be layoffs this year."
The proposed 2009 budget can be found here (pdf). (Hint: after reading the Mayor's Message, skip to page 29).
Monday, December 1, 2008
What's happening around Lancaster this week?
"Thanksgiving Holiday All You Can Play!" laser tag continues on Monday, Dec. 1 at Laserdome in Manheim. For $20 per person, you can play all day from 12:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. For an additional $5, you can enjoy unlimited soda, popcorn, and two slices of pizza. Laserdome is located at 2050 Auction Road in Manheim.
Each morning, Tuesday Dec. 2 and Wednesday, Dec. 3 is Hoh, Hoh, Hoh! at the Hands-on House Children's Museum. "In this 45 minute morning program childen and adults play and learn together in a class of holiday fun. Ages 2&3 accompanied by a parent, grandparent, or other adult." Includes Santa and his elves. Visit the website for specific times and details. The Hands-on House Children's Museum is located at 721 Landis Valley Road.
Tuesday evening, Dec. 2, Ornament Workshops are being held at the Lancaster Museum of Art. "3-D Moravian star ornaments look beautiful on any tree - now you can add them to yours. We'll unlock the mystery of this traditional craft and show you it's not as difficult as it looks! You'll leave with directions and additional materials to make more at home! Ages 10+." 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM. The cost is $25 per person.
On Tuesday, Dec. 2 at 8:00 p.m., "Mark Harman will read from his translation of Franz Kafka's Amerika, the Missing Person, just release from Shocken Books. Co-sponsored by Judaic Studies, the Klehr Center, German and Russian Department and Writers House. Mark Harman is a renowned translator of Franz Kafka's work and professor at Elizabethtown College." To take place at the Klehr Center for Jewish Life at 645 College Ave. Call 717-291-4300 for more information.
On Wed, Dec 3. at 4:30 p.m., explore The Art of Literary Journalism. "Ruth Franklin is a senior literary editor at the politics and arts journal The New Republic. Previously, she reviewed books for The New York Times Book Review, the Washington Post Book World and the London Review of Books, among other publications. She received a B.A. in English from Columbia University in 1995 and an M.A. in comparative literature from Harvard University in 1998." To take place at The Philadelphia Alumni Writers House on F&M's campus. 633 College Ave. Free. Call 717-291-4244.
On Thurs, Dec. 4 at the Lancaster Museum of Art is Cranes and Other Great Treats. "You'll transform simple snowflakes into elegant window stars using a special paper folding technique. Add color to a sunny winter window with a group of these beautiful pieces of art." 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. The Cost is $25 per person.
Also on Thursday, Dec. 4, the Community Homeless Outreach Center is having an open house."Drop In 2:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. Help us celebrate our one year anniversary! Brief remarks at 3:00 p.m. Experience how your support has made a difference for homeless individuals in Lancaster County. Meet our clients. Hear their SUCCESS stories! See our new shower & laundry facility. Light refreshments served. Additional parking on Water Street." 210 S. Prince St. on the premises of the water Street Rescue Mission.
Starting Thursday, Dec. 4 is the play 42nd Street at the Fulton Theatre. "The mother of all song-and-dance musicals hits the Fulton stage just in time for the holidays, jam-packed with much-loved musical numbers like Shuffle Off to Buffalo, We’re in the Money, You’re Getting to Be a Habit with Me, Lullaby of Broadway, and of course, 42nd Street. Filled with snappy dialogue, show-stopping tap numbers and a wise-cracking love story, this bigger-than-life show will brighten the holiday season for your entire family. So come and meet those dancing feet on the avenue we’re taking you to— 42nd Street!"The show runs until Jan. 4. Showtimes and prices vary. Visit http://www.thefulton.org/pages/index.php?pID=64 for further info.
Dec. 4 and Dec. 6 is the Dog and Cat Charm Show at Ream Jewelers in downtown Lancaster. "Charms will be created to AKC standards and will custom color them to be similar to the markings on your pet. Thur.: 9 am - 5 pm; Fri.: 9 am - 8 pm; Sat.: 9 am - 4:30 pm." Hours are 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Ream Jewelers is located at 58 N. Queen St. in Lancaster.
"Come join the The Lancaster Bible College Worship and Performing Arts Department as they present Christmas In The Village Square, a celebration of the Savior's birth through the music and stories of the Old World. The concert features the LBC Chorale, Chamber Singers, and instrumental ensembles. Friday, December 5th at 7:00 pm and Saturday, December 6th at 2:00 and 7:00 pm. Tickets are free and required." The location is Good Shepherd Chapel.
Downtown Intercourse is holding its 11th Annual Intercourse Holiday Celebration on Dec. 5 and 6. "The Intercourse Merchants invite you to stroll the village and visit many of the stores that open their doors for children and adults, offering storytelling, open houses and holiday musicians." Visit http://intercoursemerchants.com/events.php for further information.
Holiday festivities continue this weekend in downtown Lancaster. "Come to Downtown Lancaster for the holidays! Experience the city with a variety of events, activities and shopping, including visits with Santa, horse drawn carriage rides, holiday movies and storytelling, plus stop at 200+ specialty shops, galleries, museums and restaurants. Fri. 5-9 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sun. noon-4 p.m."
It's a First Friday in downtown Lancaster on December 5. That means "Over 90 art venues and shops extend their hours to 9 p.m. - some even later! Join the thousands who enjoy the evening's artistic energy and fun surprises that make each First Friday special. For more information, visit www.lancasterarts.com." From 5:00 to 9:00 p.m.
It's also First Friday in Manheim. "Extended hours and special happenings at Manheim Businesses which stay open to 8 p.m. or later." Main Street in Manheim.
On First Friday in Lancaster, "Experience the uplifting energy of Kirtan, a form of group chanting from ancient India" at The Yoga Path in Lancaster between 7:45 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. "Afterwards enjoy a sampling of delicious Ayurvedic vegetarian foods, flavored with exotic and healing Indian spices - presented by Spice of Life, Lancaster." Admission is $10 at the door. The Yoga Path is located at 428 N. Duke St.
Gallery dePaul, at 226 N. Arch Street, is showing an exhibit called "In Venice" for the month of December. "In the gallery this month...enjoy the romance, beauty and flavor of Venice captured in print, paint and mixed-media by the artists of the recent Gallery dePaul 3rd Annual Creative Workshop. Artist reception on First Friday, December 5th. from 5 till 8:30 PM."
On Friday, Dec. 5 at 8:00 p.m., the F&M Jazz Ensemble will be holding a concert in the Barshinger center for the Musical Arts on the F&M campus. "The F&M Jazz Ensemble is a 20 member 'big band' under the direction of Jerry Laboranti. Selections include: Caravan by Duke Ellington, A Child Is Born by Thad Jones and Will You Needn't, It's Over Now by Thelonius Monk."
On First Friday from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m., "Join [The Lancaster Heritage and Quilt Museum]...to visit with Saint Nicholas and learn about the history of Christmas. The National Christmas Center Presents a Lancaster Christmas will be FREE to all..." The Heritage Center and Quilt Museum are located at 5 West King St. on Penn Square.
On Friday, Dec. 5 at 7:30 p.m., the Pennsylvania Academy of Music's Next Generation Concert Series continues "featuring winners of the Academy’s annual Concerto Competition. Complimentary admission with advanced reservation. Call 717.399.9733. The Pennsylvania Academy of Music is located at 42 N. Prince St.
On Saturday, Dec. 6 at the Pennsylvania Academy of Music at 8:00 p.m. is a "Jazz in the Atrium Series concert with the Mitchell-Ruff Jazz Duo. Pennsylvania Academy of Music, 42 N. Prince Street, For ticket information, call 399-9733."
On Sunday, Dec. 7 at the Pennsylvania Academy of Music: "Beethoven Series piano concert and colloquia featuring Ann Koscielny playing Sonatas Op. 22, Op. 10 No. 3, Op. 49 No. 2, Op. 31 No. 3. Pre-Concert lecture, Liszt and Beethoven by Dr. Alan Walker. Pennsylvania Academy of Music, 42 N. Prince Street. For ticket information, call 399-9733." 2:00 p.m. lecture. 3:30 p.m. concert.
This weekend is the opening of The Ice Park at Clipper Stadium. "The Barnstormers are once again putting away their spikes and getting out the ice skates for the second season of the popular Ice Park at Clipper Magazine Stadium. The special cooling system will make it possible to skate on our 135' x 80' ice rink in temperatures up to 60 degrees." Admission is $6. Skate rentals are $3. Starts 6:00 p.m. Friday night. For hours and further information, visit http://lancasterbarnstormers.com/icepark.cfm.
Eastern Market in downtown Lancaster is open this weekend (Dec. 6-7). "More than 60 local artists fill the historic market house with their handmade wares. Live music daily from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Food includes middle-eastern Falafel, Moroccan food, organic Ethiopian food, locally roasted coffee by the cup or by the pound, baked goods from two local bakers and more." Eastern Market is located adjacent to Tabor Community Services at 308 East King St.
ELAN Hair and Spa at 1401 Oregon Pike is having a Holiday Open House on Saturday, Dec. 6."In the spirit of the holiday season we invite you to join us, bring a friend to relax and experience a sample of the services we provide. As our guest you will experience complimentary Chair Massage, Hand Massage, Sensory Journey Aveda Blue Handshake, Aveda Holiday Makeup Featuring Holiday Gift Sets & Hors d’oeuvres." Between 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. For further info, call 717-392-2207.
Continuing this week,the National Christmas Center Presents: A Lancaster Christmas. "With a vision of what Christmas in Downtown Lancaster was like in past eras, nationally-known Christmas historian and founder of the National Christmas Center, Jim Morrison, has prepared a major exhibition of old-fashioned Christmas. Visitors will see recreations of Christmas celebrations from the 1850s through the 1970s. Join us to visit with Saint Nicholas and learn about the history of Christmas. FREE on First Fridays, 5-9 p.m." Program run by the Lancaster Quilt and Textile Museum.
For more events, visit the community calendars posted at http://www.downtownlancaster.com/events.htm and http://www.padutchcountry.com/events_calendar
Each morning, Tuesday Dec. 2 and Wednesday, Dec. 3 is Hoh, Hoh, Hoh! at the Hands-on House Children's Museum. "In this 45 minute morning program childen and adults play and learn together in a class of holiday fun. Ages 2&3 accompanied by a parent, grandparent, or other adult." Includes Santa and his elves. Visit the website for specific times and details. The Hands-on House Children's Museum is located at 721 Landis Valley Road.
Tuesday evening, Dec. 2, Ornament Workshops are being held at the Lancaster Museum of Art. "3-D Moravian star ornaments look beautiful on any tree - now you can add them to yours. We'll unlock the mystery of this traditional craft and show you it's not as difficult as it looks! You'll leave with directions and additional materials to make more at home! Ages 10+." 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM. The cost is $25 per person.
On Tuesday, Dec. 2 at 8:00 p.m., "Mark Harman will read from his translation of Franz Kafka's Amerika, the Missing Person, just release from Shocken Books. Co-sponsored by Judaic Studies, the Klehr Center, German and Russian Department and Writers House. Mark Harman is a renowned translator of Franz Kafka's work and professor at Elizabethtown College." To take place at the Klehr Center for Jewish Life at 645 College Ave. Call 717-291-4300 for more information.
On Wed, Dec 3. at 4:30 p.m., explore The Art of Literary Journalism. "Ruth Franklin is a senior literary editor at the politics and arts journal The New Republic. Previously, she reviewed books for The New York Times Book Review, the Washington Post Book World and the London Review of Books, among other publications. She received a B.A. in English from Columbia University in 1995 and an M.A. in comparative literature from Harvard University in 1998." To take place at The Philadelphia Alumni Writers House on F&M's campus. 633 College Ave. Free. Call 717-291-4244.
On Thurs, Dec. 4 at the Lancaster Museum of Art is Cranes and Other Great Treats. "You'll transform simple snowflakes into elegant window stars using a special paper folding technique. Add color to a sunny winter window with a group of these beautiful pieces of art." 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. The Cost is $25 per person.
Also on Thursday, Dec. 4, the Community Homeless Outreach Center is having an open house."Drop In 2:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. Help us celebrate our one year anniversary! Brief remarks at 3:00 p.m. Experience how your support has made a difference for homeless individuals in Lancaster County. Meet our clients. Hear their SUCCESS stories! See our new shower & laundry facility. Light refreshments served. Additional parking on Water Street." 210 S. Prince St. on the premises of the water Street Rescue Mission.
Starting Thursday, Dec. 4 is the play 42nd Street at the Fulton Theatre. "The mother of all song-and-dance musicals hits the Fulton stage just in time for the holidays, jam-packed with much-loved musical numbers like Shuffle Off to Buffalo, We’re in the Money, You’re Getting to Be a Habit with Me, Lullaby of Broadway, and of course, 42nd Street. Filled with snappy dialogue, show-stopping tap numbers and a wise-cracking love story, this bigger-than-life show will brighten the holiday season for your entire family. So come and meet those dancing feet on the avenue we’re taking you to— 42nd Street!"The show runs until Jan. 4. Showtimes and prices vary. Visit http://www.thefulton.org/pages/index.php?pID=64 for further info.
Dec. 4 and Dec. 6 is the Dog and Cat Charm Show at Ream Jewelers in downtown Lancaster. "Charms will be created to AKC standards and will custom color them to be similar to the markings on your pet. Thur.: 9 am - 5 pm; Fri.: 9 am - 8 pm; Sat.: 9 am - 4:30 pm." Hours are 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Ream Jewelers is located at 58 N. Queen St. in Lancaster.
"Come join the The Lancaster Bible College Worship and Performing Arts Department as they present Christmas In The Village Square, a celebration of the Savior's birth through the music and stories of the Old World. The concert features the LBC Chorale, Chamber Singers, and instrumental ensembles. Friday, December 5th at 7:00 pm and Saturday, December 6th at 2:00 and 7:00 pm. Tickets are free and required." The location is Good Shepherd Chapel.
Downtown Intercourse is holding its 11th Annual Intercourse Holiday Celebration on Dec. 5 and 6. "The Intercourse Merchants invite you to stroll the village and visit many of the stores that open their doors for children and adults, offering storytelling, open houses and holiday musicians." Visit http://intercoursemerchants.com/events.php for further information.
Holiday festivities continue this weekend in downtown Lancaster. "Come to Downtown Lancaster for the holidays! Experience the city with a variety of events, activities and shopping, including visits with Santa, horse drawn carriage rides, holiday movies and storytelling, plus stop at 200+ specialty shops, galleries, museums and restaurants. Fri. 5-9 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sun. noon-4 p.m."
It's a First Friday in downtown Lancaster on December 5. That means "Over 90 art venues and shops extend their hours to 9 p.m. - some even later! Join the thousands who enjoy the evening's artistic energy and fun surprises that make each First Friday special. For more information, visit www.lancasterarts.com." From 5:00 to 9:00 p.m.
It's also First Friday in Manheim. "Extended hours and special happenings at Manheim Businesses which stay open to 8 p.m. or later." Main Street in Manheim.
On First Friday in Lancaster, "Experience the uplifting energy of Kirtan, a form of group chanting from ancient India" at The Yoga Path in Lancaster between 7:45 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. "Afterwards enjoy a sampling of delicious Ayurvedic vegetarian foods, flavored with exotic and healing Indian spices - presented by Spice of Life, Lancaster." Admission is $10 at the door. The Yoga Path is located at 428 N. Duke St.
Gallery dePaul, at 226 N. Arch Street, is showing an exhibit called "In Venice" for the month of December. "In the gallery this month...enjoy the romance, beauty and flavor of Venice captured in print, paint and mixed-media by the artists of the recent Gallery dePaul 3rd Annual Creative Workshop. Artist reception on First Friday, December 5th. from 5 till 8:30 PM."
On Friday, Dec. 5 at 8:00 p.m., the F&M Jazz Ensemble will be holding a concert in the Barshinger center for the Musical Arts on the F&M campus. "The F&M Jazz Ensemble is a 20 member 'big band' under the direction of Jerry Laboranti. Selections include: Caravan by Duke Ellington, A Child Is Born by Thad Jones and Will You Needn't, It's Over Now by Thelonius Monk."
On First Friday from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m., "Join [The Lancaster Heritage and Quilt Museum]...to visit with Saint Nicholas and learn about the history of Christmas. The National Christmas Center Presents a Lancaster Christmas will be FREE to all..." The Heritage Center and Quilt Museum are located at 5 West King St. on Penn Square.
On Friday, Dec. 5 at 7:30 p.m., the Pennsylvania Academy of Music's Next Generation Concert Series continues "featuring winners of the Academy’s annual Concerto Competition. Complimentary admission with advanced reservation. Call 717.399.9733. The Pennsylvania Academy of Music is located at 42 N. Prince St.
On Saturday, Dec. 6 at the Pennsylvania Academy of Music at 8:00 p.m. is a "Jazz in the Atrium Series concert with the Mitchell-Ruff Jazz Duo. Pennsylvania Academy of Music, 42 N. Prince Street, For ticket information, call 399-9733."
On Sunday, Dec. 7 at the Pennsylvania Academy of Music: "Beethoven Series piano concert and colloquia featuring Ann Koscielny playing Sonatas Op. 22, Op. 10 No. 3, Op. 49 No. 2, Op. 31 No. 3. Pre-Concert lecture, Liszt and Beethoven by Dr. Alan Walker. Pennsylvania Academy of Music, 42 N. Prince Street. For ticket information, call 399-9733." 2:00 p.m. lecture. 3:30 p.m. concert.
This weekend is the opening of The Ice Park at Clipper Stadium. "The Barnstormers are once again putting away their spikes and getting out the ice skates for the second season of the popular Ice Park at Clipper Magazine Stadium. The special cooling system will make it possible to skate on our 135' x 80' ice rink in temperatures up to 60 degrees." Admission is $6. Skate rentals are $3. Starts 6:00 p.m. Friday night. For hours and further information, visit http://lancasterbarnstormers.com/icepark.cfm.
Eastern Market in downtown Lancaster is open this weekend (Dec. 6-7). "More than 60 local artists fill the historic market house with their handmade wares. Live music daily from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Food includes middle-eastern Falafel, Moroccan food, organic Ethiopian food, locally roasted coffee by the cup or by the pound, baked goods from two local bakers and more." Eastern Market is located adjacent to Tabor Community Services at 308 East King St.
ELAN Hair and Spa at 1401 Oregon Pike is having a Holiday Open House on Saturday, Dec. 6."In the spirit of the holiday season we invite you to join us, bring a friend to relax and experience a sample of the services we provide. As our guest you will experience complimentary Chair Massage, Hand Massage, Sensory Journey Aveda Blue Handshake, Aveda Holiday Makeup Featuring Holiday Gift Sets & Hors d’oeuvres." Between 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. For further info, call 717-392-2207.
Continuing this week,the National Christmas Center Presents: A Lancaster Christmas. "With a vision of what Christmas in Downtown Lancaster was like in past eras, nationally-known Christmas historian and founder of the National Christmas Center, Jim Morrison, has prepared a major exhibition of old-fashioned Christmas. Visitors will see recreations of Christmas celebrations from the 1850s through the 1970s. Join us to visit with Saint Nicholas and learn about the history of Christmas. FREE on First Fridays, 5-9 p.m." Program run by the Lancaster Quilt and Textile Museum.
For more events, visit the community calendars posted at http://www.downtownlancaster.com/events.htm and http://www.padutchcountry.com/events_calendar
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