Amish Country News Holiday Winter 2015

www.AmishNews.com • Holiday 2015 - Winter 2016 • Amish Country News • 1

A heartwarming Christmas story of the beauty in giving

A

n elderly Amish woman faces her first Christmas since losing her

husband to cancer, but just when she thinks she might give up, an anonymous gift arrives. Will a series of mysterious gifts help her rediscover joy and peace this Christmas?

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DUTCH HAVEN W

AMISH COUNTRY LANDMARK

hile driving along Route 30 in Lancaster County, you may see both familiar and unexpected sights. Certainly the Plain folk and their horse and buggy transportation will seem a step back in time. But one unique and unmistakable landmark is the Dutch Haven windmill. Its revolving arms have been drawing thousands of visitors each week ever since it first opened as a restaurant back in 1946.

And while hungry visitors could satisfy themselves on any number of Penn Dutch specialties, it was Dutch Haven’s shoo fly pie that put it on the map…and in the record books as “America’s Best Shoo Fly Pie.”

Made with a secret recipe, some 40,000 pies are sold in the store or shipped via UPS all over the USA. Indeed, so popular and delicious are the pies that some faithful customers have been buying them for over 50 years!

This is undisputedly Amish Country’s most famous dessert, and all you have to do is walk through the door at Dutch Haven to be offered a sample taste of this amazing treat, warmed and topped with whipped cream, just as it was served in the restaurant all those years ago.

The pie that was featured in TIME magazine still plays a feature role at Dutch Haven. But the windmill building is now home to an amazing selection of over 10,000 items. One of the area’s best selections of primitive Amish furniture includes corner cupboards, pie safes, chests, and shelves.

T-Shirts

Souvenirs

Woodcrafts, souvenirs and collectibles of all kinds fill the former dining rooms. Also on the shopper’s menu would be everything from spice mats and Amish dolls to jams, jellies, and local honey. Who can resist buying a T-shirt, or maybe a bonnet or Amish felt hat? If you grow tired looking at all of the Dutch Haven gift items, relax in one of the Troutman Rocking Chairs, from the oldest rocking chair company in America. Also deserving of a trip home in your car are the colorful and decorative hex signs, a perfect reminder of a visit to Dutch Country.

Dutch Haven’s shopping hours are Sun.-Thurs.

9am-7pm, Fri. & Sat. 9am-9pm. For more information about this Lancaster County landmark, call (717) 687-0111 or visit www.dutchhaven.com.

A visit to Dutch Haven, “the place that made shoo fly pie famous,” will make your trip to Amish Country even more memorable…and tasty!

Hex Signs

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Get to Know Jake’s Country Trading Post

By Clinton Martin

G

etting to know Jake’s Country Trading Post is like making a new friend. There’s never a dull moment when walking the aisles of this spacious country store with fashionable merchandise, and the family behind this business is ever personable and friendly.

“All of the staff at Jake's would like to thank everybody for making 2015 such a terrific year. We hope to see all our friends in 2016 as well as meeting and making many new friends.” Ed & Melissa Jackson, proprietors.

Visitors who have been to Jake’s many times know well the numerous reasons to go back again. The selection at Jake’s continues to change and renew with fascinating lines of purses and fashionable apparel such as scarves, ponchos, socks, gloves, and much more.

Among a half-dozen quality purses and bag brands newly introduced at Jake’s, including the locally handcrafted SH Bags made right here in Lancaster County, Jake’s proudly displays the American-chic and patriotic-cool bags and accessories by the up-and-coming premier brand, Bella Taylor.

Bella Taylor came to market in 2008. Taylor, to honor the owner’s name, and Bella thanks to the company mascot, a Bichon Frise often seen in the company’s advertising. Bella Taylor is rapidly becoming America's premier go-to brand for on-trend quilted handbags. All designs, shapes and colors are created in the US, and imported from India. Bella Taylor epitomizes fun, affordably priced American style – from wallets and accessories to small and medium handbags and larger travel items.

Scarves are now available to coordinate with many collections.

Dozens of colors and shapes are available, with new launches every six months – see the current winter line crisp and cool on display at Jake’s.

Many ladies find shopping for handbags akin to meeting a best friend, but for the men in their lives, perhaps finding a new purse or clutch isn’t as appealing. Jake’s has the guys covered too. Jeremy, the official Jake’s sports guy, has included all the latest for sports fans with lots of team support goods. More than a few square feet of floor space are dedicated to auto accessories like team steering wheel covers, hitch plates, floor mats, and other cool items. For the home - cups, mugs, bottle openers, clocks, signs, window clings, serving ware, even a line of team tooth brushes are available.

But, to really impress upon the neighbors who the team of choice is, Jake’s has a fine outdoor lineup of great team gear – tree faces (team swag you attach to your trees to give them a great visual), flags, wind chimes, even a stumpy selection of grotesque garden gnomes sporting team paraphernalia.

Seasonal choices are also en vogue at Jake’s.

A large selection of florals, wreaths, berry garland, and candle rings will help visitors of all ages ring in the Holiday season. Family gatherings, meals, movie nights, caroling, wassail, whatever the family tradition a

4 • Amish Country News • Holiday 2015 - Winter 2016 • www.AmishNews.com

certain décor and atmosphere is necessary.

Jake’s has the goods to make any home the right place to celebrate.

Truth be told, Jake’s is actually more like two stores on the same property. There is an upper and a lower building. The lower building now has locally hand crafted brooms and lots of bird feeders and houses.

This is also where the outdoor patio and garden merchandise is displayed. In 2016, look for Jake’s to expand the lines of mini fairy garden décor and concrete statuary.

The selection was never anything to scoff at, but the Jacksons are excited to bring even more to their customers just in time for the end-of-winter outdoor shopping needs.

The staff at Jake's is always friendly and ready to help visitors find what they need to decorate any room for any season. Put their know-how to the test and enjoy a visit to Jake’s today. You’ll shake a few hands, fill a shopping bag or two, and walk away imagining your next visit to this new old friend.

Jake’s Country Trading Post is located at 2954 Lincoln Hwy. East, Gordonville PA 17529. Call (717) 687-8980, or visit www.jakeshomeaccents.com for more information.

www.AmishNews.com • Holiday 2015 - Winter 2016 • Amish Country News • 5

(717) 687-8980 • www.jakeshomeaccents.com

On Route 30 in Paradise • 2954 Lincoln Highway East

with $20.00 purchase or more and this coupon.

Limit one coupon per family. (Expires 3/31/16) Note Pad valued at $4.00.

FREE NOTE PAD

“Walkin’ In A Winter Wonderland”...

NOT Just a Song ... Experience Koziar’s Christmas Village Decorations and lights originally

By Clinton Martin

W

hat is now the wonderful Koziar’s Christmas Village attraction was originally known as Spring Lake Dairy Farm.

Family patriarch William M. Koziar began decorating the farm for Christmas in 1948 for the enjoyment of his family (wife Grace and four children).

were centered on the house and barn, but he soon expanded with more elaborate displays and incorporated the farm’s lake, walkways, trees, Continued on Page 10

Where the Amish Are Our Neighbors.

Flory’s

Cottages Camping Hosts: Claudette, Lou & Shelly

Level Shaded

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E,W,S Cable TV & Wi-Fi Pet & Smoke Free

*Cottages *Guest Rooms

717.687.6670

www.floryscamping.com

*Camp Store *Pavilion *Laundry *Bathhouses

99 N. Ronks Rd. PO Box 308 Ronks PA 17572 Between US 30 & Rte. 340

For over 100 years, the PA Dutch have been using

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Use BISMOLINE to treat and prevent minor skin irritation, prickly heat, chafing, itching, diaper rash, athlete’s foot, perspiration, wetness,and odor.

Available at these local stores

Zimmerman’s Hardware

306 Hartman Bridge Road, Strasburg

Plain & Fancy

3121 Old Philadelphia Pike, Bird in Hand

Just one of a jillion flavors you can create, taste, and make a commercial for at the Turkey Hill Experience. Place your reservation and buy tickets now at TurkeyHillExperience.com.

Columbia Exit of Rt. 30 | 301 Linden Street, Columbia, PA 17512 1-844-VISIT-TH (1-844-847-4884)

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Miller’s Smorgasbord

2811 Lincoln Hwy E, Ronks

Old Village Store

2705 Old Philadelphia Pike, Bird in Hand

800.669.8795 Visit www.Bismoline.com

A New Century at Brickerville Antiques

By Clinton Martin

S

omeone who picks up this copy of Amish Country News will read it, rely on it, take it home, and toss it in a drawer. Fifty years from now they’ll clean out that drawer, and it’ll go in a box. In the attic.

Twenty years after that their descendants will clean out that attic, and they’ll find this copy of Amish Country News. They’ll say, “Wow, cool. Check out these neat old ads. Things sure were different back then!”

there – the perfect vintage or antique accent piece to start a whole new collection.

Brickerville Antiques is located at the intersection of Routes 322 and 501, five

miles north of Lititz, eight miles west of Ephrata. Call (717) 626-0786 for hours. www.BrickervilleAntiques.com

People love vintage advertising. It is a window into a bygone era. It portrays cultural realities at a particular snapshot in time – the good, the bad, and the ugly. It is a populist record book of how things were for everyday people. You can learn from it. Old advertising is absolutely intriguing.

Brickerville Antiques has an incredible selection of not only vintage advertising, but also 3,300 square feet of other eclectic items to rekindle memories and freshen up a home’s décor. Furniture, ephemera, glassware, primitives, stoneware, toys, tools, jewelry, collectibles, postcards, coins, art, dolls, textiles, kitchenware, books – it’s all

Expires 12/31/15.

AT MOUNT HOPE

www.AmishNews.com • Holiday 2015 - Winter 2016 • Amish Country News • 7

HOLIDAY EVENTS 2015 Through November 28 “Josiah for President” – The New Musical Bird-in-Hand Family Restaurant & Stage Nov. 7 - Jan. 2 - Christmas Display Koziar’s Christmas Village Nov. 7, 8, 14, 15 - Holiday Open House Eastland Alpacas

Handcrafted Amish Furniture done

Right!

Solid hardwood Furniture for every room in your house.

Customized just for you.

Camp Hill 3424 Simpson Ferry Rd. 866.291.GISH (4474)

www.gishs.com

Nov. 27 – Dec. 31 - “A Christmas Journey” Magic Lantern Show Plain & Fancy Theater Nov. 27 – Dec. 20 - Christmas Trains Strasburg Rail Road

Drink in Vienna When Dining at Union Barrel Works

By Clinton Martin

U

nion Barrel Works has been an Amish Country News dining darling for years, going back to virtually day one of UBW’s existence. We’ve loved sharing the stories behind the fresh flavors with our readers. However, sometimes the delicious burgers, brats, and stews are outshone by some excellent, finely crafted small-batch beer.

The newest star on UBW’s menu is none other than the special Double Barrel lager.

UBW crafted it in the traditional Vienna style, which includes barrel-aging for over six months. This creates not only a wonderful deep lager, but adds subtle flavorings from the maturation process in the barrel, teasing out floral and deep vanilla essence from within the staves themselves.

Lancaster 2191 Lincoln Hwy E (Rt. 30) 866.925.GISH (4474)

Hours Mon., Wed., Fri., 10-8pm Tue., Thur., Sat., 10-6pm

Nov. 12 – Dec. 31 “A Christmas Story” The Musical Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre

Delivery Anywhere!

Visit Union Barrel Works today to try a pint of Double Barrel. For GPS directions, use 6 N. Reamstown Road, Stevens, PA 17578. For hours call (717) 335-7837. www.unionbarrelworks.com

Sing Auld Lang Syne With Your Sweetheart at Eden Resort's New Year’s Eve!

liday o h e it r o v fa ’s e n o Every e! movie live on stag

November 12December 31

By Clinton Martin

W

hat should we do for New Year’s Eve, Honey? Oh, nothing special.

Don’t worry about it. It’s just one night every year. WARNING! WARNING! WARNING! Don’t fall for it. Yes, it is an important night.

And, yes you should do something. But, you don’t have to fret or worry about planning a complicated, drive-here, drive-there evening out. The Eden Resort has one of the most enjoyable, truly exciting and sparkling evenings around planned for couples ready to ring in the New Year with delectable food, bubbly beverages, music, and classy accommodations.

All the favorite scenes are here: The Big Award, Ralphie asking for the Red Ryder BB Gun, the tongue stuck to the pole and the stolen turkey.

The Eden Resort offers two different New Year’s Eve packages. One includes a live band playing the best classic rock and roll legends and hits of the 50’s and 60’s, while the other features an incredibly talented live DJ spinning requests all evening long.

The Main Street Cruiser Package. The Main Street Cruisers perform a high energy, extremely entertaining show that features comedy and true-to-original tributes to classic rock and roll. Revelers need not worry about missing the drama and festivity of the big ball dropping in Times Square, since a jumbo screen provides a live stream from the Big Apple. The splendor of the grand enclosed courtyard hall makes for an amazing atmosphere. Doors open at 7:45pm. The bar remains open until 1:30am.

Hats and noisemakers are provided and, of course, there’s the traditional champagne toast at midnight.

The Eden’s superbly talented kitchen presents a dinner buffet from 8:15pm to 10:00pm, including table service of jumbo shrimp cocktail and a mixed green salad. The buffet includes carved prime rib au jus, baked salmon with lobster hollandaise, cheddarand-asparagus-stuffed chicken, crab Alfredo penne, and smoked Gouda scalloped potatoes, all complementing the chef’s vegetable selection, as well as a grande dessert station with a “make-your-own sundae” bar.

The DJ FREEZ Package. DJ FREEZ really is that cool. He’s easily Central-PA’s most sought after DJ. Only the Eden Resort has the class, cred, and hutzpah to get him on

Call today for tickets!

717-898-1900 Or order online at

DutchApple.com

510 Centerville Rd Lancaster, PA

New Year’s Eve. Eat your heart out everyone else! DJ Freez will play all requests, all night long, ensuring an electrifying atmosphere of great tunes. DJ Freez has worked events for The Eagles, Lenny Kravitz, Sting, Paris Hilton, The Sugarhill Gang, DJ Craze, The X-Ecutioners, The Cover Girls, and this New Year’s Eve --- the guests lucky enough to be at the Eden Resort for this awesome party.

Year right, as is of course, a champagne toast at midnight. Cheers!

The event is held in an expertly appointed Eden Resort Ballroom. Rest assured this isn’t your grandpa’s fire hall! It’s a bona fide ballroom with a fine, upscale sense of place.

Doors open at 8:00pm. The bar remains open straight through to 1:30am. Hats and noisemakers are included to ring in the New

No matter which reasonably-priced package appeals most, I do suggest you call and make your reservation early. The event will sell out, so plan ahead and call 866-801-6430.

Remember, the Eden Resort is a great place to dine, stay, and play at any time of the year.

Read more at www.edenresort.com.

A sumptuous dinner buffet by the expert Eden chefs is served from 8:15pm to 10:00pm, including mixed green salad, carved prime rib au jus, flounder imperial roulades, chicken bruschetta, ravioli with sautéed shrimp, and smoked gouda scalloped potatoes, along with the dessert station mentioned above.

www.AmishNews.com • Holiday 2015 - Winter 2016 • Amish Country News • 9

Koziar's Christmas Village Continued From Page 6 and fences. Over time, the private display became a popular local attraction known as the “Christmas House.” Traffic jams were common as locals pulled up next to the farm to catch a glimpse of the splendid lights.

Eventually, visitors were welcomed and the Christmas Village became an official attraction. The wheat field became parking space. The dairy farm remained active at first, but it proved inconvenient in that the Koziars had to wait until the cows were milked before they could turn on the lights! You see, there just wasn’t enough electricity in the grid to

power the milking machines and the lights at the same time.

Many of the Holiday dioramas were housed in old chicken coops, displaying toys and clothes of the Koziar children and grandchildren.

Now, 69 years later, three generations of Koziar family members are still involved in the family-owned business. The displays, walk-throughs, pathways, and buildings have grown immensely over the decades, with trains, decorations, ornaments, music, gifts, food, and all-around Christmas Joy permeating the charming tradition-laden attraction.

In its long history, Christmas Village has received many awards, including Best Outdoor Christmas Display in the World, the Award of Excellence as One of the Top Ten Attractions in Pennsylvania, and one of the Top 100 Group Destinations in North America.

Here is Koziar’s 2015 schedule: Nov. 7th through Thanksgiving, Fridays 6:00pm – 9:00pm, Saturdays 5:30pm - 9:30pm, and Sundays 5:30pm - 9 pm. Beginning Thanksgiving, and running through January 2nd, Monday-Friday 6:00pm - 9 pm, Saturdays 5:00pm - 9:30pm, and Sundays 5:00pm – 9:00pm.

Give Gifts that Celebrate the True Spirit of the

Christmas Season...

KensingtonBooks.com/Kleanreads

ON SALE NOW

10 • Amish Country News • Holiday 2015 - Winter 2016 • www.AmishNews.com

Koziar’s Christmas Village is an easy drive from Lancaster County (only 30 minutes north of Adamstown – Antiques Capital, USA). For GPS directions, use 782 Christmas Village Rd. Bernville.

For further information visit www. koziarschristmasvillage.com. You’ll never forget that first view of the lights as you come over the top of the hill!

You’ll Laugh Yourself Hoarse at Dutch Apple’s “A Christmas Story” Special to Amish Country News

Y

ou'll shoot your eye out, kid! It’s the famous refrain from the beloved 1983 movie, which is fun to watch every Christmas. What’s even better is to catch this classic story on stage at Dutch Apple Dinner Theater. When “A Christmas Story” was first staged as a musical, there were more than a few devoted fans of the movie that voiced their concern. Why tinker with something so great? The first curtain calls came and went, and the naysayers had become fans of not only the movie, but now also the musical!

"Joyous! … A musical that dares mess with one of the most popular Christmas movies of all time and yet manages not only to do the film justice, but top it. … It’s a charming triumph of imagination.” —Associated Press

movie classic that runs round-the-clock on television every Christmas. Set in the 1940’s in the fictional town of Homan, Indiana, the musical follows 9-year-old Ralphie Parker on his quest for the Holy Grail of Christmas gifts—an Official Red Ryder carbine-action 200-shot Range Model air rifle.

Rebuffed at every turn with similar echoing warnings, Ralphie plots numerous schemes in his desperate desire for the coveted BB gun.

All the iconic scenes from the movie are here: Ralphie’s friend, Flick, getting his tongue stuck to the flagpole; his brother, Randy, getting dressed in his snowsuit; the bullies, Farkus and Dill; the leg lamp award; the bunny suit; the Chinese restaurant; Christmas dinner; and many others.

"I was dazzled.” —The New York Times

The delightfully versatile score ranges from gentle ballads to show-stopping full-ensemble numbers, such as “Ralphie to the Rescue!”

“A Major Award,” “Sticky Situation,” “Up on Santa’s Lap,” “Somewhere Hovering Over Indiana,” and the inevitable “You’ll Shoot Your Eye Out!”

This musical, which received rave reviews during its Broadway debut, is based on the

“A Christmas Story, The Musical” will bring a new excitement to those who have seen the

"A true gift! A sparkling adaptation with a surefire charmer of a score.” —New York Magazine

movie and will certainly put those that haven't in the holiday spirit!

“A Christmas Story” runs at Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre from November 12 through December 31. Call for tickets, 717-898-1900, or visit www.dutchapple.com to view performance times. The theater is located at 510 Centerville Road, Lancaster PA, 17601.

Fresh Art. Incredible Talent. Innovative Design.

Be inspired by stunning exhibits and learn from the best instructors in quilting.

Shop aisle after aisle of fabrics, machines, and quilting supplies.

Detail: Delightful SpiralS by Robbi Joy Eklow

There is something for everyone at QuiltWeek!

Lancaster, Pennsylvania • March 16–19, 2016 Lancaster County Convention Center Doors open at 9:00 a.m. each day $14 daily • $35 for all four days

NATIONAL BRAND PARTNER

For more information, visit us at QuiltWeek.com or call 270-898-7903 www.AmishNews.com • Holiday 2015 - Winter 2016 • Amish Country News • 11

Sarah Price: Falling in Love With Life Again

A

s a masterful storyteller, Sarah Price’s best-selling Amish fiction novels present an authenticity that pulls at the heartstrings of readers, giving them a renewed faith in life, love, and friendship. Price brings every page alive with warm, endearing characters and the beautiful imagery of a breathtaking Amish countryside.

happy face, and living with a positive attitude came to a head when I fell into a depression.

I experienced PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) from all of the complications and issues during my experience.

But behind these exquisitely crafted stories, Price faced a personal struggle that taught her about faith and the drive to accomplish her calling.

Having long talks with God and spending a lot of time reading the Bible helped me get through this rough patch. I also felt the power of prayer as so many of my readers prayed for me. And when I say that I felt it, I felt it. When people did prayer chains, I could actually feel the burden lift from my shoulders and the weight of despair vanish from heart. Those prayers chased away the bad things and helped me open myself to God.

How did you learn you had breast cancer?

How has this experience impacted your writing?

I knew before they told me. For several months, I had a painful lump in my left breast.

Unfortunately I was under the impression that breast cancer doesn’t hurt, so I did not attend to it as quickly as I should have. However, from the moment I had my mammogram and ultrasound, I knew. The doctors jumped into action, making phone calls to my insurance company and scheduling a biopsy that same afternoon. Two days later the biopsy came back positive for breast cancer. I was not surprised and embraced the diagnosis without tears or fear. I turned it over to God and accepted His will.

What was the hardest part of your treatment process?

I encountered so many setbacks and problems that even my doctors told me that my situation was very unusual. After my first double mastectomy and reconstruction I developed an infection that resulted in the loss of the left breast within two weeks and the loss of the right breast six months later. I had multiple surgeries to try to save the breasts and also a life-threatening infection that landed me in isolation for ten days.

I almost died. The infection created a hole in my breast that was two inches wide and about one inch deep, exposing my chest wall.

Nothing would stop the infection and the doctors were afraid it would reach my heart.

Finally, I had to help restore my white blood count, so they gave me a blood transfusion (which is not something that had previously been on my bucket list).

What helped you through your treatment?

The primary thing that helped me through my treatment was turning it over to God. I never once questioned what was happening to me or wondered, “Why me?” When people would say something questioning why I had

Special to Amish Country News breast cancer, I would always respond “Why not me? And, frankly, I’m glad it’s me and not you.” People were often surprised with that response, but I genuinely meant it. God allowed this cancer for a reason, and who am I to question His decisions?

So I relied heavily on God to get me through it, reading my Bible, especially Proverbs and Ecclesiastes, which are my favorite books in the Old Testament, as well as the Gospels and Book of Acts.

Keeping a positive attitude and surrounding myself with positive people was something else that helped me. I also did a lot of research so that I could ask questions and understand what treatment I was given. I made certain that I was informed enough to understand the possible long-term ramifications of such decisions.

What advice would you give to other women facing illness?

My advice would be to remember Jeremiah 29:11. God’s plan is not always our plan.

The sooner we accept that, we can begin focusing on our spiritual healing. A lot of people question God when tragedy strikes.

Having a grounded sense of faith heals us.

No matter what we do, we cannot change God’s intended outcome. So what is the point of crying or feeling depressed? To me, that indicates wavering of faith.

Now, don’t get me wrong. I had my moments.

It’s OK to cry and to feel blue or depressed.

Perhaps two years of holding it in, showing a

12 • Amish Country News • Holiday 2015 - Winter 2016 • www.AmishNews.com

I’m writing a lot more about deeper issues now. A perfect example is Secret Sister: An Amish Christmas Tale (Realms, 2015). Many Amish fiction books tell a similar story: young woman meets young man, they fall in love, there is a problem, and then they overcome it.

Secret Sister is a deeper examination of one woman’s entire life. She struggles with faith as she faces the first Christmas as a widow.

I drew from my experiences when I wrote this novel because there are some emotions you can only write about after you have lived through them.

What do you hope to accomplish in your future novels?

My future novels will continue to evolve with my experiences. I want to include more issues that my readers can relate to, issues that are not usually discussed in inspirational fiction.

Additionally, I am hoping that my daily video blogs and weekly podcasts continue to reach my followers so that I might help them through difficult times.

Sarah Price’s family emigrated from Europe in 1705, settling in Pennsylvania as part of the area’s first wave of Mennonite families. At nineteen, she befriended an Amish family and lived on their farm. Twenty-five years later she splits her time between her family in the New York City metro area and a home that she shares with an Amish woman in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, where she retreats to reflect and write. As a masterful storyteller, Price prides herself on presenting an authentic Amish experience for her readers. www.facebook.com/fansofsarahprice www.sarahpriceauthor.com Instagram: @sarahpriceauthor

“Gifts That Make A Difference”

By Clinton Martin

I

n 1920, a group of Mennonites created the Mennonite Central Committee to aid hungry people in Russia and Ukraine.

Today, the MCC is at work on every continent except Antarctica and Australia. Regional offices in 50 countries operate as bases from which disaster relief, vocational development, or peace-building reach at least 60 nations.

In the Democratic Republic of Congo, armed groups from within Congo and from neighboring countries rule many areas of Eastern Congo. They fight each other and the Congolese army to defend or to gain land, resources and power, terrorizing and killing villagers in the process.

Decades upon decades of violence and unrest is, however, not the only story to be told in Congo. The MCC is very active in the nation building and maintaining schools in refugee camps, and providing families with seeds, tools, and land with which to grow their own food.

A young man named Matthieu Kisanula, whose education is being covered by the MCC, summed it up perfectly. “I could have been a bandit. I could have gone to the market to steal. Now I am expecting to complete my studies and be someone in life.” His mother, thinking about all that has happened in her life, says she feels good to see her children growing and going to school. “What was lost was lost. Now I am looking toward a future for my children.”

All this great work takes more than just a desire and a mission. It takes money to accomplish. Where does it all come from?

Actually much of the money generated for supporting the MCC’s efforts comes out of our own backyards. MCC benefit sales, such as quilt auctions, are a common way for local chapters to raise money. Just recently, a quilt named “Plain & Fancy” sold at an MCC sale for $9,000. Over 100 talented Amish and

Mennonite women had participated in the painstaking work of the now famous textile.

But a $9,000 quilt is only a drop in the bucket when it comes to supporting the mission of the MCC. Over 12 million dollars of the MCC’s annual budget comes from a very interesting source, a network of independently owned and operated MCC Thrift Shops throughout the US and Canada. The largest concentration of MCC Thrift Shops is right here in PA (19 shops) and the largest concentration in PA is, of course, right here in Amish Country (6 shops).

While you’re in Amish Country, please visit these shops. You’ll know that while you are filling your shopping bag with unique merchandise, you are also helping a worthy cause. Seek out as many of these shops as you like, and discover a whole new kind of shopping. Find out more about the MCC in general at www.mcc.org. For more information about the MCC Thrift Shop network, visit www.thrift.mcc.org.

Country Gift & Thrift Shoppe 717-768-3784 In the quaint village of White Horse, amidst the tranquility of Amish farms, shop two floors of upscale high-quality merchandise and treasures for the whole family. This hidden gem is your source for beautiful linens, lightly used clothing and shoes, brand name purses, jewelry, housewares, crystal, toys, books galore, and must-see vintage and antiques. The inventory changes literally every day.

Watch quilts being stitched by local groups in the Quilting Room. They have a 50 cent clothing rack and a store-wide weekly halfprice color tag, plus select clothing is only a buck on Saturdays.

www.AmishNews.com • Holiday 2015 - Winter 2016 • Amish Country News • 13

The store is open Monday-Friday from 9:00am to 5:00pm, and Saturday 9:00am to 4:00pm. Shop the store in person and like them on Facebook.

2016 marks the 26th year of this shop.

The store’s staff and volunteers are happy to proclaim, “God has blessed us beyond our imagination to reach out to the community around us, and to those in need around the world.” www.countrygiftandthrift.com.

Ephrata Re-Uzit Clothing & Housewares - 717-733-4982 The small-town of Ephrata embodies the best of downtown Amish Country. There is plenty to do in this venerated borough, including some excellent thrift shop bargain-browsing.

The Ephrata Re-Uzit shop is located right beside the old train station, now the town’s visitor center, with plenty of free public parking, including hitching rails for buggies since the local Amish & Mennonite communities enjoy shopping here, too.

With one of the thrift shop network’s widest selections of clothing, this store offers a fine way to clothe the kids, mom, dad, friends, family, and even grandma and grandpa. There

is also plenty of glassware and kitchen items, plus a well-stocked toy corner full of dolls, trucks, puzzles, and plush items.

Ephrata Re-Uzit Furniture & Books - 717-733-4934 Also on State Street at the south edge of Ephrata is a furniture and book warehouse not to be missed. Luxurious used leather couches and sectionals are available at fantastic prices, while a large selection of wooden furniture like hutches, dining room sets, desks and end tables are on display beside an impressive variety of upholstered choices.

Sharing space in this store is an extensive selection of books and other media. Locals and visitors alike love that every purchase helps support disaster relief around the Country and the world.

The easiest way to reach this store is to head north on Route 272 from Lancaster, taking State Street at the Y (use the Wendy’s as a landmark) and turn right into the parking lot of the store directly after turning onto State Street.

Re-Uzit Shop of New Holland 717-354-8355

14 • Amish Country News • Holiday 2015 - Winter 2016 • www.AmishNews.com

At the intersection of Route 23 and Shirk Road in New Holland is a very special thrift shop. It started in 1976 and was the first MCC Thrift Shop in Lancaster County. This is one of the largest thrift shops in the entire MCC-supporting network. Retail space alone accounts for 26,000 square feet of items on display, with the entire building occupying 40,000 square feet!

There is plenty of furniture, clothing, crafts, gifts, decorations, small kitchen appliances, dishware, hardware, antiques, collectibles, and lamps available in this multi-floor shopper’s delight. This store has selected items for half price every week, based on the color of the price tag. In addition, there is a section for 50 cent clothing.

Known for a bright, clean atmosphere with friendly, helpful staff, this Re-Uzit offers shoppers a fine way to spend an afternoon in Amish Country. www.newhollandreuzit.org

Morgantown Re-Uzit Shoppe 610-286-7233 Morgantown is often considered the gateway to Amish Country from the east. It is an easy hop and skip off the PA Turnpike, the first welcome to Amish Country many visitors see, and can be easily reached from Berks,

Chester, and Lancaster Counties. On Route 23 just west of Morgantown stands a Re-Uzit shop full of thrifty and useful finds. This store has everything for daily life’s necessities.

Apparel, décor, home goods, toys, gifts – shop here before you go to a regular retail store.

You’ll probably find what you’re looking for, save money, and support a worthy cause all at the same time. A great collection of vintage collectibles and antiques is a fun bonus. Like the store on Facebook to see more photos, specials, hours and directions.

Mount Joy Gift & Thrift 717-653-8318 Recently, the Mount Joy Gift & Thrift Shop contributed $80,000 to the MCC. Since the shop opened in 1977, it has contributed over 4.6 million dollars! It’s all been made possible by the generous support of customers, and by a hardworking core of 185 volunteers that do any number of jobs from cashiers and sorters to pricers and receivers.

The shop is professionally run, and the spacious, clean, and handsomely appointed rooms display quality merchandise at a variety of price points. Items are available at any budget. Christmas, clothes, stationery, games, housewares, and books are available in a wide range of styles and genres.

The store is easy to find on Main Street in Mount Joy, which is only minutes from the Spooky Nook Sports complex. www.mtjoygiftthrift.org.

The Main Street Closet 717-464-2038 Main Street Closet is 5 minutes south of Lancaster at 2842 N. Willow Street Pike in Willow Street, PA. The shop has been at this new location since April of 2013 and is growing by leaps and bounds. The inventory changes daily with a large assortment of housewares, vintage items, collectibles, glassware, tools, books, shoes, games, puzzles, linens and a huge variety of clothing for the entire family. Every week items with a different color price tag go on sale at half price throughout the store. You are sure to find that special something to add to your collection, a craft item you have been looking for, a cute outfit for one of the kids and even something for yourself or your spouse.

Check out this fun store and see what treasure you might find! From Lancaster take Route 272 south. Turn left on the second road past Kendig Square shopping mall which is West Willow Road. Proceed several blocks to the corner of West Willow and 272 North. If traveling north on 272, turn left onto West Willow Road to enter our parking lot.

With items on display at the various stores above always changing, stop in at one or more of them and remember that you are not only helping yourself to quality merchandise at a fair price, but helping other folks in need at the same time.

Fantastic articles! Money saving coupons!

A guide to Amish Country! For an Amish Country News annual subscription, complete this form and send a check or money order for $30 to: Amish Country News, PO Box 414, Bird-In-Hand, PA 17505

Amish Country News is printed 7 times per year.

Please check an issue to start your subscription.

Spring (April/May) June July August September October Winter (Nov/Dec)

Visit us online at www.AmishNews.com where you'll find archived issues, Brad Igou's continuing Amish Series, recipes from dining issues and lots more!

www.AmishNews.com • Holiday 2015 - Winter 2016 • Amish Country News • 15

Variations of this sign appear throughout the town today. McNabb’s Hotel was destroyed by fire in 1851. By the following year, a three-story hotel was built to replace it. More recently, it was Bitzer’s Hotel before becoming the present Village Inn of Bird-in-Hand, a beautiful bed and breakfast property. The Historic Preservation Trust of Lancaster County states that the

30

CHURCH RD

Plain & Fancy Farm Aaron & Jessica's Buggy Rides Amish Country Homestead Amish Country Tours Amish Experience Theater Amish View Inn & Suites Magic Lantern Shows Plain & Fancy Restaurant

Mt. Hope Wine Gallery

d

Bird-in-Han

IRIS

HTO

WN

RD

HARVEST DRIVE Zook’s Homemade Chicken Pies

LEACOCK RD

To

Bird-In-Hand Farmers Market Bird-In-Hand Family Inn & Restaurant

340

RONKS RD

Bird-In-Hand Bake Shop

RONKS RD

The legend of the naming of Bird-in-Hand dates to the time when the Old Philadelphia Pike was being laid out. By 1734, surveyors at McNabb’s Hotel were discussing whether they should stay at their present location or return to Lancaster to spend the night. One of them said, “A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.” The sign in front of the inn, which became known as the Bird-in-

BEECHDALE RD

Hand Inn, is known to have once "portrayed a man with a bird in his hand and a bush nearby, in which two birds were perched."

GIBBONS RD

MONTEREY RD WEAVERTOWN RD

O

f the many unique village names that dot the Amish Country map, one of the more interesting is Bird-in-Hand.

William Penn, an English Quaker, had founded the colony of Penn’s Woods, and settlers began arriving from Europe in the early 1700’s, moving westward from Philadelphia. The trip by stagecoach, or Conestoga wagon with freight and merchandise, lasted several days.

Inns were built every few miles, identified with signs held by an iron pole or attached to the side of the building. The reason for the signs was so that they could be understood by all nationalities. Further, since many teamsters or wagoneers were poorly educated they could not read. Given orders to stop at a certain inn, they were able to do so by recognizing the artwork on the signboard.

N. HARVEST DR.

Welcome to the Village of Bird-in-Hand 340

To Gordonville Bookstore

existing brick building “may be one of the few 19th century inns in the context of a small town in Lancaster County, which survives with a high degree of architectural integrity.” It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

When referring to their bird in hand symbol, some residents say that the bird nestled in the human hand indicates friendship, comfort, and hospitality, all of which you’ll discover in this perfectly delightful little village of shops, farmers markets and eateries.

The Magic & Wonder Show

Live on Stage in 2016 The Bird-in-Hand Stage delights audiences with Broadway-style musicals from Amish Country, and has become one of Lancaster County’s must-see stops for live performances. We’re thrilled to announce our 2016 season.

The Magic & Wonder Show - April 21-October 22

Josiah for President - July 22-November 5

The Confession - May 5- July 14

Our Christmas Dinner - November 11-December 31

Tickets go on sale December 1, 2015. Call (800) 790-4069 to reserve tickets or visit Bird-in-Hand.com for more information.

The Confession

$3 Off Dinner Smorgasbord Not valid with any other offer or discount. Limit two adults per coupon. Expires 2/29/16.

Bird -in -Hand Family Re st aurant 2760 Old Philadelphia Pike, Bird-in-Hand • (717) 768-1500 • Bird-in-Hand.com

16 • Amish Country News • Holiday 2015 - Winter 2016 • www.AmishNews.com

ACN

Quality wooden toys to last generations Lapp’s Toys is a second generation toy manufacturing company located in the heart of Lancaster’s farmlands.

Come visit our retail outlet to browse over 100 products, all handmade on site! ∙ ∙ ∙ ∙ ∙ ∙ ∙ ∙

Handmade in Lancaster County Children’s furniture & playsets 18” doll furniture Wooden trunks Trucks & trains Marble rollers Puzzles & pull toys Wholesale inquiries welcome

2220 Horseshoe Rd. Lancaster, PA 17601

717-945-5366 www.LappsToys.com

Bismoline – A Favorite Amish Stocking-Stuffer

By Clinton Martin

A

mish people will go the hospital.

They’ll go to a family doctor, a chiropractor, or any other kind of specialist. But even though they can and will seek medical help, you often hear of the Amish making use of home remedies and homeopathic methods as preventative measures.

They’d rather not go to the hospital if they can take care of themselves at home. There are plenty of reasons for that, but that discussion remains for another day. Of interest here is what you’ll find in the average Amish family’s medicine cabinet.

Bismoline Medicated Powder is truly a stand-by for the PA Dutch. It has been around for over one hundred years, and it has over one hundred uses. Bismoline is formulated to aid in the prevention and relief of minor skin irritations. It works equally well on adults and babies. Bismoline is excellent for diaper rash, adult rashes, prickly heat,

chafing, urine burns, and athletes’ foot. It is also a great deodorant.

Reviews abound online, such as this testimonial…

It’s easy to find at local shops (try the Old Village Store at 2705 Old Philadelphia Pike in Bird-in-Hand), but can also be ordered over the phone or online. 800-669-8795 or www.bismoline.com.

"I love this powder....smells so good and I like starting my day with a shake of it in each shoe....pure comfort."

www.AmishNews.com • Holiday 2015 - Winter 2016 • Amish Country News • 17

18 • Amish Country News • Holiday 2015 - Winter 2016 • www.AmishNews.com

Welcome to Intercourse PA INTERCOURSE 772 Zook’s Fabrics Store

340

To Country Knives To Country Gift & Thift

Old Candle Barn

340

Esh Handmade Quilts

OLD PHILA. PIKE

CENTER ST.

Old Woodshed Intercourse Canning Co.

HARVEST DRIVE

P

erhaps no other town in the entire country can claim its fame on just one simple thing --- its name. Harrison Ford drove a buggy past the road sign on a memorable visit in the Hollywood blockbuster hit of the movie "Witness." For years people have postmarked “Intercourse” on envelopes, and the jokes from visitors who travel through Bird-in-Hand to Intercourse are endless. There are several theories for the name, but that which we find most plausible follows.

Around 1730, the Old Provincial Highway (now Route 340) was laid out to connect Philadelphia with Lancaster. Conestoga wagons hauled freight back and forth between the two cities. Providing

QUEEN RD.

Dutchland Quilt Patch

Best Western Intercourse Village Inn

772

To Gap

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rest for travelers and horses, taverns sprouted along the way, becoming centers for news, gossip, and commerce. The construction of a log tavern in 1754 at the intersection of Newport Road and the Highway took “Cross Keys” as its name.

It remained such until 1814, when the name was changed to Intercourse as part of a failed real estate scheme of a Mr. George Brungard, who had acquired 48 acres of nearby land and attempted to lay out a town site and divide it into sections for sale by a lottery, advertising “151 handsome building lots of $250 each to be drawn for by number.” Renaming the town made sense, as intercourse had a common usage referring to the pleasant mutual fellowship and frequent

intermingling which were so common in the informal atmosphere of the quiet country village.

Over time, Brungard’s scheme begat others. As recently as 1971, an enterprising soul tried to take advantage of the town’s name by selling deeds for one-inch square plots of Intercourse to visitors. Creative, but nonetheless a failure. By 1880, Intercourse had a population of 280 with a post office that actually moved among stores or restaurants as owners hoped visits by residents would increase their business.

The local stagecoach service started around 1898 as “a single horse conveyance similar to a market wagon, with a roll-up curtain and double set of seats.” When the stagecoach driver knew of passengers beforehand, their comfort on cold days was added to with the placement of hot bricks heated in the oven, and wrapped in newspaper to preserve their warmth.

As the days of the dirt road drew to a close, so too did the stagecoach era. In 1923 a transit company was organized and bus service initiated to and from Lancaster. While “many of the Amish residents of the area were eager to see the line started, they did not want to invest in stock of the Company. Instead they bought books of tickets which were really prepaid bus fares.” Enough money was raised to buy a Mack Auto Bus for $6,800. It held 25 passengers and even had solid rubber tires! Today Intercourse has been recognized as a “foodie” town by the Discover Lancaster Visitors Bureau. You'll soon discover why walking the streets of this tiny hamlet is an absolute must-visit for everyone.

www.AmishNews.com • Holiday 2015 - Winter 2016 • Amish Country News • 19

Huacaya Alpacas --- Warm, Cozy and Fashionable at Eastland Alpacas

By Clinton Martin

E

astland Alpacas doesn’t always keep regular hours at their farm boutique, but the holiday season is a fantastic opportunity to enjoy the farm’s exquisite selection of clothing and more. Open hours are not “by chance” or “by appointment” at this time of year!

farm also has an on-site store stocked with items made from alpaca fiber --- sweaters, scarves, hats, gloves, socks, sofa throws, stuffed animals, and yarn, ranging from raw fiber to roving, yarn from the farm’s own animals, plus a wide color selection of authentic Peruvian yarns.

Eastland Alpacas is a 30-acre farm less than eight miles from Spooky Nook Sports Complex. In addition to raising alpacas, the

Visitors of all ages will enjoy a visit to the farm, the alpacas, and the farm store. During the Open House, visitors can come and see,

feed, and even lead the alpacas. Farm wagon rides are also offered. A food stand benefitting a good cause dishes up good eats. The alpacas show off by skillfully traversing an obstacle course. And of course, the farm store itself is open with hundreds of wonderful you-can'tfind-elsewhere gift items.

Take Some Farm-Fresh Goodness Home!

$

.00 OFF

ANY $

PURCHASE

At Intercourse Canning Company Limit one coupon per family.

Cannot be combined with any other offer. May not be used on sale items and not valid on mail orders. Offer ends 12/31/15.

Looking for a taste of Pennsylvania Dutch Country?

Featuring over 300 varieties of pickled vegetables, salsas & sauces, fruit, jams & jellies, coffee, snack foods and more! Also, see what’s cooking in our canning kitchen; live demonstrations Wednesday thru Saturday from 11am - 3pm.

April - December Store Hours Monday thru Saturday 9:30am - 5pm • Sunday 10am - 4pm

13 Center Street Intercourse, PA • 717-768-0156 • intercoursecanning.com

Holiday Open House hours are November 7, 10:00am-4:00pm. November 8, 12:00pm4:00pm, and November 14, 10:00am-4:00pm, November 15, 12:00pm-4:00pm. Regular store hours continue November 16 – December 31, Monday through Saturday, 10:00am-4:00pm; Sundays, 1:00pm-4:00pm.

For GPS directions, use 2089 Risser Mill Road, Mount Joy, PA. Call (717) 653-2757.

Be sure to check out the darling alpacas online at www.eastlandalpacas.com.

BRING IN AD FOR FREE GIFT!

Over 8000 Items of Fine Cutlery on Display!

4134 Old Philadelphia Pike 2 Miles East of Intercourse on Rt. 340

717-768-3818

Hours: Monday - Saturday 9-5

www.countryknives.com 20 • Amish Country News • Holiday 2015 - Winter 2016 • www.AmishNews.com

High Tea Served with Holiday Panache at Sugarplums & Tea

By Clinton Martin uffets, Family-Style, and Smorgasbords – they’ve got their place. But, in Amish Country when you’re looking for something a little different, Sugarplums & Tea is at the top of my "highlyrecommended" list.

B

High Tea is served in a cheery, refreshing atmosphere at this charming tea room and bakery café. Displayed on a three tiered server, High Tea is truly a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

Gordonville Bookstore just south of Intercourse on Old Leacock Road has one of the area’s best scrapbooking and stamping supply rooms.

A freshly baked scone with luscious condiments is one of many options on the top tier. Savories, such as Maryland crab dip, Hawaiian chicken salad, or roast beef with onion jam fill the second tier. A trio of sweets end the culinary progression on a high note.

Over 120 loose-leaf tea blends from around the world are available for your sipping pleasure You’ll find Sugarplums & Tea at 403 Bank Barn Lane, Lancaster, PA. Hours are Tuesday-Saturday, 11am-4pm; Sunday, 12

1-800-247-4784

noon-5pm. Call (717) 394-9166 or visit www.sugarplumsandtea.com.

Available at the Amish Experience, Plain & Fancy Farm, Lifeway, by phone and online at leading book web sites.

www.AmishNews.com • Holiday 2015 - Winter 2016 • Amish Country News • 21

Amish Farmlands • SuperSaver Tour • Visit-in-Person

Tours Since 1959

Amish Farmlands Tour

YOUR BEST VALUE!

Journey along back country roads, deep into the Amish Farmlands to discover sights rarely seen. Under the watchful eye of your certified guide, you’ll gain insights into the “how” and “why”of an everchanging culture, and see at-the-moment activities of the Amish.

If you’ve seen the Amish portrayed on the various “Reality” TV shows, and you wonder what really is true and not true about the Amish, this is the tour you won’t want to miss! We’ll debunk myths about the Amish and provide accurate, respectful, and authentic information, just like we have done for over 50 years.

Plus, now through November 30, 2015 we’ll provide each guest who purchases the Amish Farmlands Tour, when combined as part of your SuperSaver Tour, with a voucher for a FREE BUGGY RIDE at Aaron & Jessica’s, plus a free autographed Amish Cookbook.

The SuperSaver Tour includes the Amish Farmlands Tour, the acclaimed “Jacob’s Choice” at the Amish Experience F/X Theater, and a tour of the Amish House & One-Room School. As a bonus, receive an Amish cookbook and a voucher for a FREE BUGGY RIDE from Aaron & Jessica’s on property.

Buggy ride offer valid through November only.

Duration: 1 1/2 hours 7 Days in November, December 5, 12, 19, 21-24, 26-31, Closed January-February Mon-Sat, 10am, 12pm, & 2pm Sun, 10am, 12pm & 2pm

This is your Total Amish Experience!

Visit-in-Person Tour

Rare is the opportunity to meet with Amish families willing to share their traditions and beliefs with you. In a group whose size is never more than 14, this is the only Amish Tour to be designated an official “Heritage Tour” by the County of Lancaster. Visit an Amish farm at milking time, stop at a Cottage Industry, and finally gather round a living room in an Amish home for an informal conversation with the family. Includes FREE BUGGY RIDE voucher.

Duration: 3 hours Saturdays Only in November Departs 5pm.

3121 Old Philadelphia Pike, Rte. 340 Bird-in-Hand, PA 17505-0414

FREE AMISH BUGGY RIDE Receive a voucher for a free “Cookie Run Buggy Ride” just a few steps away at Aaron & Jessica’s Buggy Rides with the purchase, at the Amish Experience Theater Box Office, of a regularly priced Supersaver, Theater/House Combo, or Amish Visit-in-Person Tour.

at Plain & Fancy Farm

One voucher for each adult or child ticket purchased with this coupon. Not valid with any other offer or with group tours. Offer expires 11/30/15. Valid up to six people. Coupon must be presented at time of purchase. BUGAN

(717) 768-8400 Ext.210 AmishExperience.com

Advance Tickets, including Free Buggy Ride Voucher,

by Phone or Online:

Plain & Fancy — Farm to Table Since 1959 Where It All Began

Over 50 years ago, Plain & Fancy Farm opened to provide delicious, authentic Amish meals to visitors from all over the world, the first family-style restaurant in Lancaster County. Today Plain & Fancy is a destination all its own, featuring the acclaimed “Jacob’s Choice” at the Amish Experience Theater, Amish Farmlands and Visit-in-Person Tours, the Heritage Site Amish House & One-Room School, and Aaron & Jessica’s Buggy Rides.

The onsite Country Store offers excellent country shopping, and the newest addition to the property, Amish View Inn & Suites, has a brand new extension with great views and luxurious lodging surrounded by stunning Amish countryside.

A Lancaster Original

Amos, Ben, Manny and Elmer are some of the Amish farmers who supply the restaurant with the farm-fresh produce it serves on a daily basis. Depending on the season, sweet corn, tomatoes, watermelon, cabbage, broccoli, squash, peppers and onions are all sourced from farms within a horse-andbuggy’s drive. These neighbors, and the neighbors before them, have helped Plain & Fancy go “from farm to table” for over 50 years. The restaurant is AAA recommended, a PA Preferred and ServSafe award winner, and the Pennsylvania recipient of USA Today’s Great Plate Award.

The Amish Farm Feast

Plain & Fancy Farm Restaurant is best known as Lancaster County’s original family-style restaurant. The all-you-can-eat Amish Farm Feast includes your entrees, side dishes, starters, desserts and beverages. Enjoy fried chicken, roast beef, chicken pot pie, baked sausage, real mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, green and yellow string beans, sweet shoe peg corn, chow chow, cole slaw, raisin bread, rolls and apple butter, lemonade, iced tea, hot tea, coffee, sour cream apple crumb pie, shoofly pie and vanilla ice cream. It was this very meal that drew Man Vs. Food’s Adam Richman to Amish Country, where he went behind the scenes in the Plain & Fancy kitchen for one of his popular show’s episodes.

The New “a la carte” Menu

The restaurant also offers a new a la carte menu featuring mouth-watering appetizers, signature soups and salads, charbroiled burgers and sandwiches, and made-from scratch entrees and platters, including several PA Dutch specialties. Guests can “build a platter” with items from the family-style menu or choose one of the daily specials starting at $10 or less. You can do it all at Plain & Fancy, so why not come and “spend the day!”

Fantastic Amish Tour Savings

By Caleb Bressler

Y

ou’re visiting Lancaster County, but where do you even begin to learn about Amish culture?

Fortunately, it’s easy! Drive down Route 340, an AAA designated Scenic Cultural Byway, and you’ll find the Amish Experience at Plain & Fancy Farm. Surrounded by farmlands, you’ll feel immersed in the culture even before stepping from your car. Even better, until the end of the 2015 season, there is a great offer on the Amish Experience Combo Package.

The Combo includes a tour of the Amish Country Homestead & One-Room School, and

“Jacob’s Choice,” a one-of-a-kind experiential theater experience, for only $17.50 for ages 13+ and $13.50 for ages 4-12. The Combo Package provides a perfect introduction to the Amish lifestyle in just 90 minutes and represents a savings of $7.50 per adult.

The tour begins in the one-room school, furnished with desks from an actual Amish school, where your guide discusses Amish education and church. You then move into the 9-room house, where your knowledgeable host discusses daily life, Plain clothing, and life without electricity. At Christmastime, the schoolroom and kitchen are decorated for the holidays, Amish-style. This is the only Amish

house tour in Lancaster officially named a Heritage Site, awarded only to attractions that provide an interpretive, authentic experience.

After the conclusion of your guided house tour, head up to the Amish Experience Theater, just a few steps away. The acclaimed “Jacob’s Choice” begins every hour on the hour, from 10:00am-5:00pm.

This 40-minute experience is the story of a young Amish teenager struggling with his decision of whether or not to join the Amish church. Incorporating Amish history into an emotional story, “Jacob’s Choice” uses a 3-dimensional set, immersive special effects, and five screens to engage viewers, drawing them into what is truly an unforgettable story.

If you choose, you can dive deeper into Amish culture by upgrading to the Super Saver package and explore roads less traveled on a 14-passenger shuttle bus on the Amish Farmlands Tour, for an even greater value.

Call for more information at 717-7688400 ext. 210 or buy tickets in person at the box office at (GPS address) 3121 Old Philadelphia Pike, Ronks, PA. Visit www.

AmishExperience.com for details. The Amish Experience is open every day in November except Thanksgiving. Open Saturdays in December, and daily December 21-31, excluding Christmas Day.

LOCALLY MADE

• Quilts • Fabric & Patterns • Primitive Country Decor & Lighting and much more!

2 LOCATIONS Village of Dutch Delights

Rt. 30, 1/4 Mile East of Miller’s Smorgasbord 717-687-0534

Intercourse Store (No Fabric)

Look for the green sign on Rt. 340!

3453 Old Philadelphia Pike 717-768-3981

Mon-Thur 9-6 ∙ Fri 9-8 ∙ Sat 9-7 ∙ Closed Sunday Shop On-Line at www.DutchlandQuilts.com

24 • Amish Country News • Holiday 2015 - Winter 2016 • www.AmishNews.com

Scribble In Quilt Week On Your Calendar --- Sew it Shall be Written, Sew it Shall Be Done!

By Clinton Martin isiting Lancaster has become a pilgrimage for quilters. While the area’s Plain People came to quilting only after their English neighbors introduced them to it in the late 1800’s, the art of creating beautiful, colorful, yet practically useful folk art was a natural fit for the psyche of the Amish.

Quilting and Lancaster simply go together.

V

This love of quilting caught the attention of the American Quilter’s Society, which began hosting annual quilt shows in Lancaster in 2010. The show has grown every year, and anyone who loves textiles, the fiber arts, quilting, or folk art simply won't want to miss the 2016 show. Mark your calendars now for March 16-19, 2016. The show is held at the Lancaster County Convention Center.

She show includes adjudicated contests, showcasing the best quilts submitted from around the world, plus a huge merchant mall with anything from spools of thread up to and including the finest high-end sewing machines. Seminars, classes, and socials are offered with nationally recognized instructors and moderators, plus the Marriott Center itself offers delicious dining and plush upscale lodging. www.quiltweek.com.

The Good ’n Plenty Experience Stop in at Good ’n Plenty today to enjoy our traditional Lancaster County home cooking and you’ll see why we’ve been chosen as one of AAA’s Top 10 BEST “down-home dining” restaurants in North America. Staffed with local cooks who have devoted years to preparing outstanding food, Good ’n Plenty is like no other restaurant in the heart of the Pennsylvania Dutch area.

Three Delicious Ways To Dine Family Style Dining Our traditional all you can eat family style dining is our most popular dining option with all the food brought to the table by our experienced and friendly servers.

Menu Dining Our menu dining area is perfect for guests with a smaller appetite who would like to dine at individual tables. In addition to all the Pennsylvania Dutch favorites, our menu dining features fresh made soups, garden fresh salads and made to order sandwiches.

Takeout Want all the

delicious food but no time to sit down? The Good ’n Plenty takeout program is ideal for people on the go.

Please visit goodnplenty.com for current serving hours and valuable coupons

Rt 896, Smoketown Lancaster County, PA 17576 (717) 394-7111

www.AmishNews.com • Holiday 2015 - Winter 2016 • Amish Country News • 25

People of Peace — Victims of Violence Part Seven in a Series...

H

ow is it that the Amish, who by faith lead a quiet and peaceful lifestyle, are at times the victims of unspeakable violence? Our 2015 seven-part “Amish Series” concludes with a remembrance of a shocking event that focused the eyes of the world on the Lancaster Amish, and their response.

by Brad Igou

• The guard struck the Amish boy, “knocking him down and stabbing him with his bayonet. He made a cut in his pants and a gash in his hips about two inches long.”

• A 45-mile rock-throwing spree resulted in damage to four carriages, nine homes, one school…and one dead Amish baby.

• The arsonist managed to set fire to seven Amish barns in two hours, destroying six of them, killing 177 horses and cows, with damages estimated at one million dollars.

Part 7: SCHOOL SHOOTINGS The West Nickel Mines Amish School tragedy on October 2, 2006 was simply unimaginable. A local milk truck driver took ten young Amish girls hostage at gunpoint, killing five, and leaving the rest seriously injured before police arrived. In the years since, surgeries, daily medical care, and healing of psychological scars of all involved have continued, with one girl remaining seriously disabled.

In the immediate response, we observed the close interaction between the Amish and non-Amish here, since many Amish serve in volunteer fire departments. The actions of officials, volunteers, medical teams, police and local government showed understanding and respect. Even the media, often desperate to find someone who would talk on camera or knew something about the Amish, were forced to play largely by Amish rules.

During the emotional period immediately following, the world learned things most people did not know about the Amish here, including: • The strong support system that a closeknit family and community provide.

• The power of their faith.

• Their belief in forgiveness. One Amishman told me his first very human reaction was anger, but that he was soon struggling to forgive.

Beyond the first shock of the act itself, something the Amish could never have expected, came a second shock --- the support of so many people around the world. Many of us were moved to tears at the letters and donations of support from the "English," overwhelmingly from people the Amish did not even know. Without trying, the Amish had sent quite a message to the "outside

world" with the great compassion and amazing grace evidenced as they came to grips with an event as tragic as anyone could imagine.

We were preoccupied, looking for an explanation of why this happened.

There really was no way to make sense of this senseless act. As an Amish mother said, "All the time the question 'Why?' comes to our minds.

But we should not expect to be able to understand everything in this life, and should never put a question mark where God has put a period." Little children were promised the kingdom of heaven.

The school was quickly demolished.

Following the funerals and the media attention dying down, the students were encouraged to attend informal school sessions at an Amish property. By February of 2007, a new school had been built in a new location.

Classes began in the New Hope School on April 2nd, only six months after the killings.

The Amish tried to make the new schoolroom as "different" as possible, even down to the flooring. A row of five pear trees were planted at the old site, as close to a memorial of some kind as the Amish would get.

The school was indeed a new beginning. A relationship soon developed between the shooter’s family (especially his mother) and the parents and grandparents of the children.

Forgiveness underscored the interchanges as everyone continued the healing process.

According to the excellent book, AMISH GRACE, “in summer 2007, a picnic, or what locals called a reunion, was held for police officers, fire company personnel, emergency responders, Amish parents and families, and the shooter's family.” But, except for some

26 • Amish Country News • Holiday 2015 - Winter 2016 • www.AmishNews.com

of the families gathering informally in the years since, there have not been any formal “observations” of the anniversaries of the incident.

Over the years, nearly $5,000,000 in donations came into the community, administered by an Accountability Committee that supervises a trust fund that supports therapy for the physical and psychological needs of the victims and their families.

I conclude with these eloquent words from AMISH GRACE, which in many ways summarize the actions of the Amish in the face of persecution and violence over the centuries, words for each of us to ponder as we observe religious and political strife both here and abroad today…

In a world where faith often justifies and magnifies revenge, and in a nation where some Christians use scripture to fuel retaliation, the Amish response was indeed a surprise… One message rings clear: religion was not used to justify rage and revenge but to inspire goodness, forgiveness, and grace.

And that is the big lesson for the rest of us regardless of our faith or nationality.

www.AmishNews.com • Holiday 2015 - Winter 2016 • Amish Country News • 27

Strasburg - A Town of Trains & Heritage To

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BACHMAN TOWN RD.

Hershey Farm Restaurant & Motor Inn

RO N K S RD .

V FAIR

J & B Quilts & Crafts NORTH STAR RD

Parking

896

741

A

ll aboard! Strasburg is a destination all its own in Dutch Country, home to many well known attractions. To name just a few --- the Strasburg Rail Road, Ghost Tours of Lancaster, National Toy Train

896

DECATUR STREET

To Village Greens Mini Golf

IEW

Choo

STRASBURG

CHRISTMAS TRAINS

Departing Weekends Nov 27 – Dec 20

UPCOMING EVENTS: Day Out with Thomas™ with pal Percy! Nov 20-22 Santa’s Paradise Express The Night Before Christmas Train Christmas Tree Train Route 741 East, Strasburg, PA 866-725-9666

As early as 1716, when the first wagon was used for hauling goods, the path became known as the Conestoga Road, and the wagons that traveled them eventually became known as Conestoga Wagons. Main Street Strasburg was developed during the next

Icons to use for black & white reproduction. These are shown in 60% of black, but the screen could be changed to work best with the design.

If you choose to alter the colors in this file for use in a specific document, please do a “SAVE AS” so this file remains unchanged.

• A work of art for the entire family to enjoy… so much more than “just trains”!

• Huge layout with 22 operating model trains • Over 150 hand-created animated figures & scenes

Family

50+ owned for

YEARS!

Visit Traintown, U.S.A® at choochoobarn.com Route 741 East, 226 Gap Road, Strasburg, PA (Two blocks from the Strasburg Rail Road) 717-687-7911

28 • Amish Country News • Holiday 2015 - Winter 2016 • www.AmishNews.com

Barn

Strasburg, named for the city in France, was actually “founded” by a Frenchman, Pierre Bezaillion, who traded with the Delaware Indians. The story goes he came to the area in 1693, as French fur traders opened up the first path through this area from Philadelphia to the Susquehanna River.

As an alternative, the icons can be shown in color, but in monochromatic form. In this case, we can change the color to whatever works best with the design of the piece.

For over 50 years, visitors of all ages have enjoyed the realistic detail and creativity of our layout.

Choo

Strasburg Rail Road

Museum, and the Choo Choo Barn. But you may not know much about the interesting history of "Train Town."

Icons that use corporate color builds. These can be used providing the colors aren’t too distracting in the design.

StrasburgRailRoad.com

741

PARADISE LANE

HERR RD.

half century as traffic on this road increased considerably and the first log houses appeared in the village about 1733.

Strasburg continued to flourish in the 18th century primarily because of its location along the major wagon routes between Philadelphia, Lancaster, and the Susquehanna River.

As Strasburg flourished, so did its neighbor to the east, Philadelphia. The commercial interests of Philadelphia pressured the State Legislature to improve the transportation network into their city. As a result, a series of canals along with the Philadelphia and Columbia Rail Roads were constructed.

Strasburg residents became alarmed at the possibility of losing their commercial position and there soon emerged a charter for the Strasburg Rail Road to construct a rail line connecting Strasburg with the Philadelphia and Columbia Rail Road main line near Paradise. Finally in the 1850’s, trains were hauling freight and passengers.

About 100 years later, business had dwindled, and a severe storm in 1957 destroyed much of the track. It seemed the SRR had reached the end of the line. To the rescue came a group of local train enthusiasts who began bringing the SRR back to life in a totally new way.

They added passenger cars and buildings, and today’s Strasburg Rail Road was born, destined to become one of Dutch Country’s top attractions.

Appropriately enough, the State decided to build an expanded Rail Road Museum of Pennsylvania across the street, the ideal place to preserve the history of railroading in Pennsylvania. With the other train attractions nearby, it’s little wonder that Strasburg has earned the title of Train Town!

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Dining • Shopping • Lodging Rt 896 240 Hartman Bridge Road Ronks, PA 17572 www.hersheyfarm.com www.AmishNews.com • Holiday 2015 - Winter 2016 • Amish Country News • 29

mo Bel nt R

741

created. Since the cost was too much for the state to undertake, the company charged with building it was given the power to demand “reasonable” tolls from users. Investors received dividends earned from tolls collected along the gates of the turnpike. (As the toll was paid, the gate or “pike” was turned, hence

Strasburg Rd.

d.

Jake’s Country Trading Post

LINCOLN HWY. EAST 30 Killer Hats

S. Vintage Rd.

30

Not Just Baskets

Dutch Haven

Cackleberry Farm Antique Mall

RONKS RD.

PARADISE

Rainbow’s Comedy Playhouse Historic Revere Tavern

Miller’s Smorgasbord

The origins of RT 30, also known as “Lincoln Highway,” date back to Lancaster’s Colonial days when the frontier county needed a highway to connect it with the provincial capital of Philadelphia. The first road that was constructed is now RT 340, still referred to as the “Old Philadelphia Pike.” Soon, it was apparent that this road was insufficient to handle the increasing traffic, and in 1790, a commission to survey a new route was

Welcome to Our Paradise Dutchland Quilt Patch

V

isitors to Lancaster from the east on RT 30 travel through Paradise.

The town’s story traces back to Europe over 300 years ago, to the area of the Palatinate in Germany where Protestants had settled following the declaration of King Louis XIV that all Protestants in France would be persecuted. Fearing a French invasion, many accepted the invitation to settle in the New World in William Penn’s colony of Penn’s Woods. By 1712, they had secured land in Lancaster’s Pequea Valley as the area’s first white people, living peaceably with local Indians.

the term “turnpike”). The Act described the construction of the highway, which was to be a bed of small crushed stones on top with, rather than dirt, larger stones underneath to prevent carriage wheels from cutting into the soil. This Continued on Page 36

We have a large selection of baskets, quilted throws, men’s and ladies’ everyday accessories and gift items, which includes luxury bath and spa cosmetics, jewelry, cookbooks, kitchen linens, candles, pottery, pet fancies, home decor, framed prints, and many more special items. Choose your basket and gift items and we will customize a lovely gift basket for you. Don’t forget to pick up a souvenir for yourself while you are there.

With $15.00 purchase or more and this coupon.

Only at: Not Just Baskets Limit one coupon per purchase. (Expires 3/31/16.)

30 • Amish Country News • Holiday 2015 - Winter 2016 • www.AmishNews.com

Let the Holiday Season Begin!

Mount Hope Estate’s Annual Open House

Special to Amish Country News

I

t’s that time of year once again! Victorian Mount Hope Estate & Winery, listed on the National Register of Historic Places by the United States Government, will celebrate its annual Holiday Open House 11:00am to 4:00pm, November 27, 28 and 29.

Sample Mount Hope wines and on-site brewed beer, take advantage of special discounts on upcoming event tickets, mingle with Victorian characters, shop for Holiday Continued on Page 33

www.AmishNews.com • Holiday 2015 - Winter 2016 • Amish Country News • 31

A Christmas Journey --- A Magical “Magic Lantern” Show Special to Amish Country News

L

ate fall, early winter in Lancaster County is usually breathtaking…

Smaller crowds, beautiful scenery and a crispness in the air that just refreshes you. And it was on one of those days that my family and I went in search of “new” and “different” Holiday experiences.

As we found ourselves in the heart of Amish country, my daughter chirped up from the backseat, “Can we go to that big Christmas place?” For a 12-year-old to pick up her head, disconnect her headphones and offer a suggestion, I was NOT going to say no. But for the life of me, I had no idea what “that big Christmas place” was.

After some investigation and some questions asked, we discovered that the big Christmas place was the National Christmas Center on Rt.30 in Paradise, PA. And big, it is!

Entering the beautifully decorated building we came into a festive lobby with a cute display of Santa “sacked out,” obviously tired from his night of flying around the world and delivering presents to all the good boys and girls. Off to the left was a gift shop that, for a bunch of Christmas devotees like us, looked dangerous…in a good way!

And then our attention was drawn to a small display and poster talking about a Victorian Christmas Magic Lantern show called “A Christmas Journey.” This was happening at the theater on the grounds of Plain & Fancy Farm in Bird-in-Hand, also home to the acclaimed Amish Experience production of “Jacob’s Choice.”

It turned out that you could buy a discounted combination ticket that included both

activities at either location or online. So we bought the package, thus saving $7.50 per adult, and then headed into….Christmas heaven.

To adequately describe the National Christmas Center is virtually impossible. It is the largest, most comprehensive collection of Christmas displays, lights, Nativity scenes, Santa Clauses, and literally anything else you can think of having to do with Christmas, that I have ever seen.

We began in a room that lovingly displays all of the different Santas from around the world, beautifully rendered with lifelike mannequins all wearing the appropriate

costumes, each astounding.

scene

Then onto a series of rooms with toys and lights all dating from the 1920’s onward, including a re-created Woolworth’s store with all of its merchandise and decorations.

Next came a visit with Santa himself in his workshop at the North Pole. We moved on to the enchanted storybook village called Tudor Towne, with animated creatures and wonderful scenes we could actually walk through. There were Nativity scenes and a trip back to the time of Christ’s Birth that made us feel as if we were there.

Next we found ourselves before a massive train display that actually puts you under a Christmas tree! All in all, it was an experience not to be missed.

A short drive later, we were at Plain & Fancy Farm to have a delicious dinner in the restaurant before seeing the Magic Lantern Continued on Page 39

32 • Amish Country News • Holiday 2015 - Winter 2016 • www.AmishNews.com

Holidays at Mount Hope Continued From Page 31 gifts, and experience the splendor of Mount Hope Mansion decorated in her Holiday finery. Best of all --- admission is free!

Now thru Dec 27

A heart-warming Holiday story of a family finding a way to listen with their hearts.

u

Begin by exploring the rooms of the 1800-era Mansion. In the Library, children create a free Christmas craft. The Dining Room features samples of gourmet hot teas as you explore an extensive collection of teas, tea accessories, and distinctive jewelry. In the Morning Parlor, discounted tickets to upcoming Mount Hope events, including the grand and glorious PA Renaissance Faire, are available.

The Grand Ballroom offers sampling and sales of Mount Hope Wines and Swashbuckler Brewing Company's craft-brewed beers.

Inside the Chapel, visitors play parlor games and sing carols with cast members of “Holidays at Mount Hope.” Previous visitors to the Mansion's “A Dickens of a Christmas,” will love this brand new Holiday show supplanting the Dickens classic. The new show will run December 2 – 23.

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1-800-292-4301

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*New reservations only, cannot be combined with any other discount, $30 menu option or show only. Coupon code: ACN7

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Full event details can be found at www.

PaRenFaire.com. Mount Hope Estate & Winery is located on Route 72, less than a mile south of PA Turnpike exit 266, 15 miles north of Lancaster, and 14 miles east of Hershey.

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www.AmishNews.com • Holiday 2015 - Winter 2016 • Amish Country News • 33

Welcome to New Holland • Blue Ball

Country Lane Quilt Shop

This entire century had been one of continued misery for the peasants of the Palatinate (western Germany). The Thirty Years War had

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23

HILL RD. / WALLACE RD.

he instability in Europe in the late 1600’s spawned and nurtured the pioneer interest in the deep forest lands of Pennsylvania.

In 1681 William Penn received his 40,000 square-mile land grant to settle King Charles’ debt to his father. Himself a Quaker, Penn had experienced religious persecution firsthand, and decided to establish his American colony based on complete religious freedom.

To Ephrata

897

RANCK AVE.

RD.

VOGA NVILLE

D ROA

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MAIN STREET Witmer’s Quilt Shop

ERS

Riehl’s Quilts & Crafts E. EBY ROAD

Re-Uzit Shop of New Holland

PET

S. GROFFDALE RD.

23

N. GROFFDALE RD.

LEOLA

NEW HOLLAND

RAILROAD AVE.

Smucker’s Quilts

Flower & Home Marketplace

Country Home Blue Furniture Ridge Furniture

To September Farm Cheese

raged across the area with barbaric ruthlessness.

The peasant inhabitants fled to nearby Holland for refuge. And within a decade of the end of that conflict, King Louis XIV of France started a new religious war in the same general area.

These Palatinate peasants were exhausted by war’s desolation, and were ripe for a new start. Traveling land agents for William Penn’s new colony found listening ears. In addition to religious freedom and a peaceful existence, Penn offered cheap land. The stated price was 100 English pounds for 5,000 acres.

34 • Amish Country News • Holiday 2015 - Winter 2016 • www.AmishNews.com

By 1728, William Penn had been dead for 10 years and his American colony, called Pennsylvania, was being administered by a proprietary governor while the sale of land was formalized by patent deeds.

In 1802, when a post office was established and an official name was necessary, there was no objection to naming the town New Holland. These grateful people remembered how extremely kind the inhabitants of Holland were to them, and the assistance that included funds to cover the cost of the refugee German immigrants’ ocean voyage.

This was no small matter when the alternative was indentured service for a period of years. For adults, indenture frequently meant four to seven years of labor without pay. Minors served until their 21st birthday. But still, William Penn’s Quaker Pennsylvania was liberation compared to the Europe they fled seeking freedom of religion, assembly and speech for all, hopefully, none of which we take for granted today.

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From Kensington Publishing --- Stories to Enrich the Soul this Holiday Season the shop is 1.5 miles south of Route 340, at

By Clinton Martin

K

lean Reads is Kensington’s source for “good clean heartwarming reads that have all of the love and none of the funny business. Stories that reaffirm values in faith, family, and love.” Put another way, these books are proof positive that an excellent read does not need all the schlock to prop it up like so many grocery store checkout line titles designed to catch the eye.

sale now. To pick up a copy while you are here in Amish Country, stop by the Gordonville Bookstore. Open Monday through Saturday,

275 Old Leacock Road, Gordonville, PA 17529. 717-768-3512. This Amish-owned store offers books and much more, even handmade Christmas cards!

Most are Amish-themed, but not all Klean Reads take place in Plain realms. Welcome Back: A Smoky Mountain Novel by Lin Stepp is a perfect choice for a non-Amish read.

Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Great Smoky Mountains, Stepp's sweet and touching story follows one woman's journey back to the home, and the husband, she left behind.

For those who can’t get enough Amish, Klean Reads definitely delivers. The Christmas holiday season offers a particularly intriguing selection of page-turners.

Click on over to www.KensingtonBooks. com/KleanReads and see the latest titles on

www.AmishNews.com • Holiday 2015 - Winter 2016 • Amish Country News • 35

Go Big...Go Christmas...Go to Flower & Home Marketplace

By Clinton Martin

T

here are quaint little shops all around Amish Country. Many would fit in one room in one wing of the Flower & Home Marketplace. This is the region’s largest home décor, craft, flower, and Christmas retailer.

Scores of trees, thousands of ornaments, an equal number of seasonal home accents --and this is only the beginning!

You’ll need to spend a few minutes just deciding how best to spend hours wandering the aisles, becoming inspired with each item you fall in love with, and then picturing them in your home. Custom silk or fresh wreaths and swags can even be made to order at the on-site professional Design Center, all part of this mega Holiday shopping destination.

The Flower & Home Marketplace is located at 196 Broad Street, East Earl, PA 17506.

It is open daily except Sundays. Call 717.351.0015 for more information or visit www.flowerandhome.com.

18th Annual

Intercourse Village Celebration Friday and Saturday, December 4-5 9:00am – 8:00pm

• Special Holiday offerings • Seasonal food and beverage sampling • Gingerbread House Contest • Festive Music throughout the village

www.villageofintercourse.com Paradise Continued From Page 30 revolutionary system of road construction is credited to a John McAdam, whose name became the term for paved or “macadam” roads. The "Lincoln Highway" (RT 30) opened in 1795 as the first long-distance, hard surfaced road in the country. Taverns and stagecoach stops grew up along the turnpike for weary

travelers. Of these, the Revere Tavern, dating back to 1740 and originally called the “Sign of the Spread Eagle”, still proudly stands today.

In 1841, the tavern became the residence of Reverend Edward V. Buchanan and his wife Eliza Foster Buchanan. Eliza was the sister of Stephen Foster, whose immortal songs will always be a part of Americana. Foster not only

36 • Amish Country News • Holiday 2015 - Winter 2016 • www.AmishNews.com

penned music at the tavern, but sent many of his manuscripts to Eliza, also a talented musician, for her approval. On the banks of the Pequea Creek, Eliza and Stephen played many of Stephen’s 200 songs, including “Way Down Upon the Suwannee River” and “Oh! Susanna.” Wherever you happen to call “paradise,” we hope that a little bit of our own Paradise won’t do you any harm!

90,000 SQ.FT. OF SHOPPING!

UNBEATABLE SELECTION! AMAZING LOW PRICES! Silk & Fresh Flowers Baskets & Glassware Dried Flowers & Pottery Everyday Crafts Scrapbooking Supplies Kid’s Crafts & Games 196 Broad St. Blue Ball, PA 17506

LANCASTER COUNTY, PA

Home Accents Seasonal Decorating Outdoor Decor Greeting Cards & Gifts Candles & Potpourri Lamps & Lighting

Tabletop Linens Gourmet Food & Gifts Window Treatments Accent Furniture Year-Round Christmas & MUCH MORE!

FLOWERANDHOME.COM 717-351-0015 Mon-Sat 9a-7p www.AmishNews.com • Holiday 2015 - Winter 2016 • Amish Country News • 37

AV E

.

Free Parking

Welcome Center Train Station

The Lititz story is tied to that of the Moravian faith in Bohemia. As was the case with other persecuted religious groups in Europe, many Moravians sought freedom in the New World, arriving in the early 1700’s, with settlements in Pennsylvania and North Carolina. In 1755 the town actually took the name Lititz, the German spelling for Lidice, where European reformers had taken refuge in the 15th century.

Music and education were important to the Moravians. In fact, the Lititz schoolhouse erected in 1746 marked the beginnings

772

To Lancaster and

30

Lititz Historical Foundation

CEDAR ST.

T

here really is no place quite like Lititz, and visitors should plan time there while in Amish Country.

501

S. BROAD ST.

Lititz Springs Park

MAIN ST.

Free Parking

Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery

LOCUST ST.

LN

WATER ST.

CO

LITITZ

CEDAR ST.

LIN

501

N. BROAD ST.

TO BRICKERVILLE: To Brickerville Antiques

N. STURGIS LANE (Parking)

Historic Lititz • A Hometown Treasure

Moravian Church Square

772

ORANGE STREET

of what was to be Linden Hall, the oldest continuously operating residence school for girls in the United States.

For one hundred years, Moravian church members were the only people permitted to live in the town. It was not until 1855 that non-Moravians were allowed to own their own homes. The complex of buildings comprising the Moravian congregation is well worth seeing, particularly the church built in 1787.

One name is linked forever with the history of Lititz --- Julius Sturgis. It was Julius Sturgis who opened the first commercial pretzel bakery in the New World in Lititz. The year was 1861, and the site at 219 East Main Street is on the National Register of Historic Places.

A tour of the bakery, still in operation, is unlike any other and well worth your time.

Just recently, Lititz won Budget Travel's 2013 "Coolest Small Town in America" competition.

PRETZELS GALORE IN OUR

BAKERY STORE Sweet, salty, & savory gifts plus party treats

Open Monday — Saturday Bakery Tours 9:30am-4:30pm Bakery Store 9am-5pm Always Closed Sundays

38 • Amish Country News • Holiday 2015 - Winter 2016 • www.AmishNews.com

Magic Lantern Show Continued From Page 32 Show. None of us knew what a Magic Lantern Show was, so let me give you a brief introduction of what I learned…

"A

CHRISTMAS

!

Storytelling At Its Best

JOURNEY" November 27-December 31 2:00pm & 7:00pm Shows at Plain & Fancy Theater

Before there were movies, there was the Magic Lantern. It was the grandfather of the motion picture. Combining music with stunning images and some comedy, drama and just plain fun, this show was truly “magical.”

A professional Showman brings to life the joys of Christmas Past and Present, all through the charm and magic of a 19th century lantern.

Experience “A Christmas Carol” in the time of Charles Dickens before the movies plus Parade of Toys, Runaway Snowball, Night Before Christmas and so much more!

It features a very talented performer or “Showman” as he is called, who warmly greets all of the guests as they enter the theater. After some lovely Christmas music, the show begins.

A lively game of Christmas trivia, with prizes for the winners, starts things off. Then the “Professor” gives us a brief history of the Magic Lantern. And what a gorgeous instrument this lantern is! It dates back to the late 1800’s and has three lenses that project the images onto a large screen in the theater.

The Professor then steps behind the lantern to work his magic. The story is about a Victorian family who, like so many of us, spends Christmas Eve together. Their tradition is to have Grandfather read from a large book of Christmas stories. This year is different though, as he has incorporated a Magic Lantern into his readings.

It soon becomes apparent that we, the audience, are “part” of this wonderful family…enjoying the stories and images just as if we are sitting on the floor of that beautiful Victorian farmhouse in the late 1800’s.

From a wonderful version of “Twas The Night Before Christmas” to Christmas toys that “come to life,” this fun and unique show was a wonder to behold. Along with the story of Angels rescuing a small boy in a terrible snow storm, and another about three boys who cause mass devastation from a simple snow ball, this new experience was, simply put, enthralling.

Singing Christmas carols, laughing, shedding a few tears… this and much more was the experience of “A Christmas Journey.” And then to top it off, the most wonderful version of “A Christmas Carol” was brought to life before our eyes. The Professor used multiple voices to convey all of the characters in this classic tale of redemption. It was an amazing performance that moved everyone in the audience.

After the show was over, Professor Firefly (that’s his name!) took questions from the audience. He explained more about the Lantern, where the images came from, the music, the special effects, until literally every question asked about the show was answered.

$3 OFF Each Adult

Route 340 Between Bird-in-Hand & Intercourse MAGICLANTERNTHEATER.COM ❤ 717.768.8400, EXT. 210 After the show, my usually quiet and unconnected family couldn’t stop talking about their favorite parts and “how cool” it was. The “spirits” of Christmas had done it again! We had experienced something as a family that would last in our memories for years to come.

For those of you who haven’t been to this show, I cannot recommend it enough!

If you are looking for something that is different from the everyday Christmas activity, do not miss this wonderful combination of sights and sounds that make up the National Christmas Center and “A Christmas Journey.” My family and I cannot wait to do it all again next year!

Present this coupon at time of purchase to receive $3 off each regular adult admission. Valid up to 6 adults. Not valid with any other offers or group pricing. Expires 12/31/15. ACNML

The National Christmas Center is located at 3427 Lincoln Highway East (Route 30 East), in Paradise, (717 442-7950. Hours of operation and a virtual tour are at www. nationalchristmascenter.com.

It’s just a short drive to Plain & Fancy Farm and the Amish Experience, 3121 Old Philadelphia Pike (Route 340), Bird-inHand. For show schedule and to purchase tickets or the combination package online, go to magiclanterntheater.com or call (717) 768-8400, ext.210. Both venues also offer tickets at the door. We plan on making them Christmas traditions!

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ROUTE 322 & 501

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5 Miles North of Lititz at Brickerville House Shops Open Mon-Sun 10am-5pm 2 E. 28th Division Hwy. Lititz, Lancaster County PA

www.brickervilleantiques.com • 717-626-0786 www.AmishNews.com • Holiday 2015 - Winter 2016 • Amish Country News • 39

To Hershey

To Koziar’s Christmas Village (Bernville)

72

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Mount Gretna

To Hershey’s Chocolate World

PA Turnpike

419

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Brickerville

Exit 266

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Brickerville Antiques, and Specialty Shops

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Turkey Hill Experience

Moon Dancer Winery Celtic Concert October 24 -Wyndfall -The Rogues

Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre

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Eastland Alpacas

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Christiana

Our Advertisers

An (S) after the name denotes Open Sunday.

An * before the name denotes a coupon.

ATTRACTIONS

*Aaron & Jessica's Buggy Rides (S)..................... 44 *Amish Country Homestead (S)........................... 42 *Amish Country Tours (S)....................................... 22 *Amish Experience Theater (S)............................. 42 American Quilter’s Society (S).............................. 11 Bird-in-Hand Stage................................................... 16 Choo Choo Barn (S)................................................ 28 Dutch Apple Dinner Theater (S).............................9 Dutch Haven (S)..........................................................3 Eastland Alpacas (S)................................................ 10 Hershey’s Chocolate World (S)............................ 42 Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery.................................. 38 Koziar’s Christmas Village (S)..................................9 *Magic Lantern Show.............................................. 39 *Mount Hope Estate & Winery (S)..........................7 *Rainbow’s Comedy Playhouse (S).................... 33 Strasburg Rail Road (S)........................................... 28 Turkey Hill Experience (S).........................................6

LET'S EAT

Bird-in-Hand Bake Shop......................................... 17 *Bird-in-Hand Rest. & Smorgasbord................... 16 Good 'N Plenty (S)................................................... 25 *Hershey Farm Restaurant & Inn (S).................. 29 *Lancaster Beer & Wine Gallery (S)..................... 27 *Miller's Smorgasbord (S)...................................... 31 *Olde Mill Restaurant (S)....................................... 19 *Plain & Fancy Farm (S).......................................... 23 Revere Tavern (S)..................................................... 32 September Farm Cheese........................................ 36 Sugarplums & Tea (S).............................................. 29 Union Barrel Works (S)..............................................8

*Not Just Baskets (S)............................................... 30 Old Candle Barn....................................................... 20 *Old Woodshed......................................................... 24 Renninger's Antique Market (S)........................... 10 Riehl's Quilts & Crafts.............................................. 18

LODGING

*Country Inn of Lancaster ........................................7 Best Western Premier Eden Resort..................... 33 Flory's Cottages & Camping......................................6 Fulton Steamboat Inn.............................................. 33 *Intercourse Village Inn.......................................... 19

SHOPPING

Bismoline.......................................................................6 Blue Ridge Furniture................................................ 34 Brickerville Antiques (S)......................................... 39 Cackleberry Farm Antique Mall (S)..................... 30 Country Gift & Thrift Shoppe................................. 14 *Country Home Furniture....................................... 35 Country Housewares Store.................................... 34 *Country Knives......................................................... 20 Countryside Roadstand.......................................... 25 Dutchland Quilt Patch............................................. 24 Ephrata Re-Uzit Stores............................................ 13 Esh Handmade Quilts............................................. 21 Flower & Home Marketplace................................ 37 Gish's Furniture & Amish Heirlooms .....................8 Gordonville Bookstore............................................ 21 *Intercourse Canning Company (S).................... 20 J & B Quilts and Crafts............................................. 28 *Jake's Country Trading Post (S).............................5 *Killer Hats (S)........................................................... 31 Lapp’s Toys.................................................................. 17 Main Street Closet Thrift Store.............................. 14 Morgantown Re-Uzit Shoppe............................... 15 Mount Joy Gift & Thrift Shoppe............................ 15 New Holland Re-uzit Store.................................... 14

42 • Amish Country News • Holiday 2015 - Winter 2016 • www.AmishNews.com

Sam's Man Cave...........................................................6 Smucker's Quilts....................................................... 35 Witmer Quilt Shop.................................................... 36 Zook’s Homemade Chicken Pies......................... 24

Holiday 2015 Winter 2016 COVER STORY Jake’s Country Trading Post...............4,5 FEATURE ARTICLES American Quilter’s Society..................25 Amish Experience................................24 Author Sarah Price.............................12 Bismoline...........................................17 Brickerville Antiques.............................7 Dutch Apple Dinner Theater................11 Dutch Haven Shoo-Fly Pies...................3 Eastland Alpacas.................................20 Eden Resort..........................................9 Flower & Home Marketplace..............36 Kensington Publishing.........................35 Koziar’s Christmas Village.....................6 Magic Lantern Show...........................32 Mount Hope Estate.............................31 Sugarplums & Tea.............................21 Thrift Shops for a Cause.....................13 Union Barrel Works..............................8 REGULAR FEATURES Brad Igou’s Amish Series....................26 Dutch Haven Lancaster Landmark.........3 Publisher’s Message............................43 AREA MAP & GUIDES Advertiser Index..................................42 Amish Country Map.......................40-41 Bird-in-Hand..................................16-18 Intercourse.....................................19-27 Lititz..............................................38-39 New Holland/Blue Ball .................34-37 Paradise .......................................30-33 Strasburg .....................................28-29

PO Box 414 • Bird-in-Hand • PA 17505

(717) 768-8400, Ext. 218

www.AmishNews.com

Published by Dutchland Tours Inc. Brad Igou • Editor-in-Chief brad@amishnews.com

Clinton Martin • Director: Sales & Marketing

clinton@amishnews.com Kirk Simpson • Graphic Designer Caleb Bressler • Editorial Assistant

For Advertising Information Contact Clinton Martin (717) 768-8400 Ext. 217.

450,000 copies distributed annually by subscription, and at over 300 motels, information centers and businesses in PA Dutch Country. Copyright ©2015.

All contents of this magazine are protected by copyright and may not be reproduced without prior approval of the publisher.

A

Publisher's Message

s might be expected, Amish Christmas customs are simple, oriented to the family and the religious meaning of the Holiday. So, Amish children don’t visit Santa Claus in a department store. There is no lavishly decorated Christmas tree in the home. And strings of colorful electric lights do not grace the front of an Amish house.

But the making of special cookies and candies is certainly a part of the Holiday activities.

Greens and candles may decorate some home interiors. School children often pick names and exchange small gifts, such as writing paper or a needlepoint kit. Families usually exchange small gifts as well.

Some Amish send Christmas cards, often to their “English” friends. For adults and children the making of handmade “stamped” cards is very popular.

An AMISH Christmas

by Brad Igou

The Christmas church service may or may not be held on December 25th, but both Christmas and the following day, sometimes called “second Christmas,” are holidays for the Amish. This second day is usually one of relaxation or visiting.

Christmas dinners are a special part of the celebration. These are usually large meals, not unlike those served at weddings, and various groups besides the family will hold get-togethers, such as single women, teachers, and others of like interest. These gatherings may continue into January and February of the New Year.

As in any close-knit community, Christmas is also a time to think of others less fortunate.

Following is a story concerning a "deed of kindness" in an Amish community in Wisconsin at Christmastime. It is reprinted from the book THE AMISH IN THEIR OWN WORDS...

It was around Christmas and our family had just retired for the night. We were awakened out of our sleep by the sound of seemingly heavenly music outside the house.

We got up and. after coming to our senses, realized it was the community's young folks caroling for us.

After they left as quietly as they had come, one of us opened the door to peer out into the night, stumbling over a large tub and containers. What was it? Upon investigating, we discovered them filled with ground meat.

We had suffered a fire loss and here they had assembled at one of the neighbors to work up a beef for us. We felt unworthy of such a gift, but filled with gratitude at the thoughtfulness.

Something quite special that happens during this time of year is the Amish one-room school Christmas program, to which each scholar’s parents are invited. This is one of the few times you will ever see Amish children on a “stage” and “performing” for an audience. Carriages arrive and parents file expectantly into the room. Nervous, excited students from grades one through eight step before a group of anxious, but supportive, parents and relatives.

The stories, poems, and plays are filled with humor and messages about the meaning of the season. Some of the dialog from the skits suggests the morals behind the stories...

“Sometimes the gifts you make bring more happiness than anything you can buy.”

“Giving and making others happy is the best part of Christmas.”

“The best gift you can give is simply called love.”

Songs make up an important part of the program, and many are secular Christmas songs or carols with new lyrics. One of my favorites follows, to the tune of “O Little Town of Bethlehem.”

Oh, “peace on earth” is still a dream For which we humbly pray, A song which we would gladly hear In every land today; A song which silver voices raise Wherever men are free, Wherever churches lift their spires And touch eternity.

O little Inn of Bethlehem How like we are to you; Our lives are crowded to the brim With this and that to do.

We’re not unfriendly to the King, We mean well without doubt; We have no hostile feelings, We merely crowd Him out.

My best wishes to each of you for a most blessed Christmas and Happy New Year!

www.AmishNews.com • Holiday 2015 - Winter 2016 • Amish Country News • 43

We Are Open

Thanksgiving & New Year’s Day (Weather Permitting)

START A GREAT FAMILY TRADITION! ~~ BRING THE FAMILY FOR A RIDE ON THANKSGIVING OR NEW YEARS DAY! ~~ OPEN 10AM - 4PM

Ride through our covered bridge!

PRIVATE AMISH ROAD Real Family Carriages Gift Certificates Available With each Certificate purchased receive a custom made Aaron & Jessica's ornament!

Call (727)723-0478 or email us!

www.amishbuggyrides.com

Bring the whole family!

Tours & Pricing “The Cookie Run” Adults $10 Child $5 A 3 Plus Mile Ride Thru an Amish Farm, with a Brief Stop for Optional Drinks and Cookies.

Feel the Country. (20-25 minutes)

Visit a real Amish farm. Get off the buggy and see the cows and big draft horses.

We Absolutely Offer You More!

Visit us first! Here’s what you can see!

• Amish Schools • Quilt Shops • Harness Shop

• Amish Farm Stands • Amish Buggy Factory • Amish Hat Shop

• Furniture Shops • Amish Shoe Store

Free Parking...Lots of It!

THIS MONTH ONLY!

Located in the country at:

Plain & Fancy Farm midway between Bird-in-Hand and Intercourse

3121 Old Philadelphia Pike Ronks PA 17572 ADULT FARES ONLY. Coupon must be given at time of ride & can't be combined with any other offer. All riders must take the same tour. Expires 3/31/16

717-768-8828

Ask about our longer rides!

“Amish Town Tour” Adults $14

Child $6

A 4 Mile Tour Passing Several Amish Businesses in Our Community; and an All Amish Farm Area. Experience Real Amish Life. (30-35 Minutes)

“Amish Farm Tour” Adults $21

Child $11

Visit a Real Amish Farm. Tour the Barn. See the Cows and Big Clydesdale-type Work Horses. America the Way It Used to Be. (50-60 minutes) Our Customer Preferred Ride!

Come See Us and Ask About Our Longest Tour...

“The AMISH JOURNEY RIDE” Tour a Real Working Amish Farm, an Amish Quilts and Crafts Store, and Learn About Amish Life Riding Through the Countryside. (1-3/4 hours)

Private Rides & Gift Certificates Available!

Makes a Great Family Gift!

Email us for details:

amishbuggyrides@gmail.com

Winter Hours: Open 7 Days a Week 10am-4pm (Weather Permitting) Child Rate is 12 yrs. and Under / UNDER 3 is Free!