Lancaster Family Fall Winter 2024 by Engle Printing & Publishing Co., Inc

Tracing your roots: Exploring Genealogy as a Family

RUN THRU THE LEAVES

Whether running is your hobby or your lifestyle, we have what you need to get the most out of your hard work.

Jocelyn Engle CONTRIBUTING

Cathy Molitoris

Melissa McKee

Greg March

Randy Miller

Creating the perfect JACK-O'-LANTERN

Jack-o'-lanterns are ubiquitous in October, and a refresher course on carving and decorating pumpkins can help families with kids of all ages create masterpieces this fall.

Don't carve too early. Although it can be tempting and fun to carve a jack-o'-lantern once the calendar turns to October, it's unlikely the finished product will make it all the way to Oct. 31. Horticulturists indicate that jack-o'-lanterns have a shelf life of roughly five to 10 days, though an especially cold October could shorten that life expectancy even further. If you want your jack-o'-lantern to greet trick-or-treaters on Halloween, wait to carve it until a few days before the big day.

Use a dry-erase marker to outline the design. It's easy to make mistakes when carving a jack-o'-lantern. Use a dry-erase marker to trace the design onto the pumpkin before you make a cut. Children can be tasked with drawing the design, leaving the actual carving to adults and older teens.

Avoid severing the stem. When carving, many people remove the top of the pumpkin so candles or lights can be placed inside. However, the custom pumpkin-carving experts at New Yorkbased Maniac Pumpkin Carvers note that removing the top cuts off the vine, which supplies the pumpkin with nutrients and moisture, even after it's been cut. A hole in the back of the pumpkin can provide easy access when placing candles or lights inside, and cutting here won't cut off the nutrient and moisture supply a pumpkin needs to avoid drying out.

Scoop everything out.

Kids can help remove all the seeds from the interior of the pumpkin. The seeds can later be roasted to make a snack for the family to enjoy while gazing at the lit jack-o’-lantern. In addition to removing the seeds, be sure to get all of the pulp out. Pulp left in the pumpkin will soon get moldy, and that can shorten the lifespan of the jack-o'-lantern. In addition, try scraping the front inner wall of the pumpkin, which will make it thinner and easier to carve.

Use an LED light inside the jack-o'-lantern.

Candles might seem like the most authentic and even spooky way to light the interior of the pumpkin, but the heat produced by a burning candle can shorten the life expectancy of the jack-o'-lantern. An LED light won't give off much heat and will provide ample illumination.

Consider methods other than carving.

While families may want to utilize kitchen knives or carving tools to craft their pumpkins’ designs, those with young children can opt for a different method of celebrating the season. Give youngsters any assortment of decorative materials such as googly eyes and other stickers, age-appropriate paints, stencils, markers – the sky’s the limit! –and let them have a blast personalizing their pumpkins.

The value of volunteering Families can make a difference together

BY CATHY MOLITORIS

If you’re searching for a family bonding opportunity that helps others at the same time, look no further than volunteering. Options abound in the local community for volunteers, said Joel Janisewski, vice president of impact for United Way of Lancaster County.

“There are ways to contribute as a volunteer from almost any age,” he said. “This region is home to hundreds of nonprofit organizations, and they rely on the generosity of the community to fulfill their mission.”

The United Way hosts a volunteer portal where organizations provide information about opportunities, including specific details of needs.

“United Way of Lancaster County’s Get Connected volunteer site is

Volunteers pack food boxes at the United Way.

the place to start,” Janisewski said. “It’s a resource of hundreds of volunteer opportunities submitted by nonprofit organizations around the county. It’s regularly updated.”

Janisewski suggests families that are interested in volunteering together take time to consider their interests.

“Think about if there are certain issues or geographic places in the community where you want to serve,” he said. “That will help you narrow your focus.”

Be sure to check age requirements, since many opportunities have a minimum volunteer age, but don’t be discouraged if you have young children. They can help, too, Janisewski said.

“Families with children of any age can be involved in gathering items like toiletries or school supplies,” he said. “This is an easy way to support an organization.”

Once a family has chosen an organization to support, Janisewski recommends contacting the organization directly to confirm its needs.

“The needs organizations have change over the course of the year,” he said. “Certain times of the year, they might need more help than other times. Check in and see what opportunities are available.”

Give the gift of time

It’s fun to get gifts at the holidays, but how about giving the gift of your time and talent to the countless organizations that need volunteers? Here are a few options for volunteer opportunities during the holiday season, provided by Janisewski:

“United Way of Lancaster County has an online Holiday Giving volunteer guide that is published on our volunteer website,” Janisewski said. “Opportunities include food drives, holiday meals, gift drives and more.” The Holiday Guide will be featured on the Get Connected website starting in November and will include opportunities from around Lancaster County. Check out Get Connected here: https://uwlanc. galaxydigital.com

Lancaster Toys for Tots

Donation sites are located in dozens of places around Lancaster County. Find more information here: https://tinyurl.com/5n99wccv

United Disabilities Services Gift Wrap Booth

Volunteers age 14 and up are needed every day of the week from late November through Christmas for this opportunity, happening at Park City Center. Learn more here: https://udservices.org/gift-wrapbooth-volunteers/

Volunteers help with landscaping as a service project.

Volunteering can build a sense of camaraderie.

Volunteering as a family benefits both the organization being served and the volunteers themselves, Janisewski shared.

“One of the biggest benefits to families is they get to spend time together doing something different,” he said. “It’s often a chance to try something they haven’t done before.”

That experience can lead to discovering new passions or building life skills, he noted.

“A volunteer with Habit for Humanity, for example, could learn some basic homebuilding skills,” he said.

Volunteering as a family can also help kids step out of their comfort zone in a safe way. “When you try something new or things you didn’t know you could do before, if you’re doing it in the context of your family, that can give you some extra support,” Janisewski noted.

Families may also find connections with other families in the community as they volunteer together. “The odds are, if a family is volunteering somewhere, it’s going to be in a place where other families are volunteering, and it’s a chance to meet new people and expand their social circle.”

Janisewski encourages families to get started today by visiting https://uwlanc.galaxydigital.com.

“Volunteering is so important, because these organizations are our neighbors in our community, and they rely on volunteers for support,” he said. “They value the time, effort and expertise volunteers have.”

Volunteers participate in a project to benefit people who face food insecurity.

Volunteers organize food for a service project.

Hannah and Nate Canfijn vacuuming Mission Church

Options for volunteers can include helping with new home construction.

A volunteer cleans a kitchen as part of a service project.

Tracing your roots

Exploring genealogy as a family

BY CATHY MOLITORIS

Does your daughter look just like her greatgreat-grandmother? Does your son’s red hair come from his great-uncle? Through genealogy research, families can learn more about their ancestors while spending time together and having fun.

“One of the reasons why I think genealogy is such a popular hobby is because it involves the entire family,” said Eric Schubert, founder and genealogist with ES Genealogy. “I always have said that anyone can do it, with a little practice. Millions of Americans participate!”

Schubert knows what he’s talking about. He got his first taste of genealogy when his mom

gave him a DNA test kit when he was in elementary school. “I started young, because not thinking it would stick, I began when I was home from school,” he recalled. “But here I am, many years later. That gradual research hunt began a long project of piecing together my family story. This is a sentiment that I am sure many other family historians share.”

Ruth Seibert, founder of the Seibert Genealogy & Research Library, and her mother, Lillian, in 1923

Discovering your family tree

If your family is considering exploring genealogy, get everyone started with these unique gift ideas this holiday season:

• A membership in a genealogical or historical society or to an online database such as Ancestry.com

• A DNA test kit such as 23andMe

• A map of your family’s homeland or even a world map for members of your family to color in or mark as relatives are discovered

• A recipe book with foods focused on your family’s heritage

• Record-keeping journals or family tree books such as “My Family Tree: A Genealogy Workbook for Kids” by Amy Coulterman

It can seem overwhelming to dive right into your family’s history, so Schubert recommends focusing on one step at a time.

“When beginning genealogy research, starting small and with the basics is really important. I say this frequently,” he shared. “Start with your parents, perhaps by trying out a free online federal U.S. Census search online, and go from there. Talk with your extended family, other family members, to see what memories, stories or information may already be out there for you to dig into. Write everything down.”

Everything does not have to be done at once, he noted. “Start those discussions with your family about ancestors, what you know and what you wish you knew,” he said. “If you are not interested or involved in research because you think it is too much work or not exciting, do it a little at a time. Watch how research can evolve,

and questions you may have come up.”

From there, Schubert said, it’s easy to expand your research. “Start small, build a family tree from the beginning as you know it and try out basic online resources such as the most recent federal censuses,” Schubert recommended. “People are surprised when I say this, but sometimes Google really is your best friend, too.”

Discovering your family’s history can uncover details you never knew while building quality time together as a family.

“I could go on and on about why genealogy is important,” Schubert said. “It is your family story! Every generation, every extended family, has that family historian - and it can be you. Learning the stories of those that came before us, their occupations, the troubles they faced and the lives they led can inform the present. Sharing

research with family is always important and gratifying as well.”

It's also fun, he said, noting, “I constantly refer to research as a journey, because that is what it is. You might find that the research hunt is one of the more enjoyable parts.”

Whenever you’re ready to tackle your family’s legacy, just take that first step, Schubert said. “The one and only regret I always hear from people is that they just wish they started sooner,” he said.

Schubert, an Elizabethtown College graduate who lives in Lancaster city, added that he’s available to assist families on their journey.

“I am always happy to help those in the local community, whether it be with a family tree or via DNA,” he said. “Hearing success stories and discussing genealogy every day is something I always appreciate.”

Local genealogy resources:

ES Genealogy: www.esgenealogy.com

Evangelical and Reformed Historical Society: www.erhistoricalsociety.org

Historical Society of the Cocalico Valley: www.cocalicovalleyhs.org

LancasterHistory: www.lancasterhistory.org

Lancaster Mennonite Historical Society: www.mennonitelife.org

Lancaster Public Library: www.lancasterpubliclibrary.org

Lancaster Theological Seminary: www.lancasterseminary.edu

Lititz Historical Foundation: www.lititzhistoricalfoundation.com

Manheim Historical Society: www.manheimhistoricalsociety.org

The Seibert Genealogy Research Library at the Winters Heritage House Museum

inLove

Tasty seasonal dinners to make ahead of time

Individuals may be presented with plenty of opportunities to cook for family and friends over the course of a typical year. But no time of year is more synonymous with large sit-down meals than the holiday season.

For home cooks who want to prepare in advance and then enjoy themselves on the actual holiday, it may be best to choose foods that taste better the day after the dish has been cooked. Many recipes develop deeper flavor profiles after they have been left to rest and are then reheated. Holiday hosts can explore these ideas for meals that can be cooked in advance and may taste even better when reheated after a day in the refrigerator.

Stew

A stew that's been simmering on the stove or in the slow cooker all day will have a winning flavor. But stew can be even more delicious the next day. The starch in the potatoes will enable the sauce of the stew - whether it's tomatobased or a mix of brown gravy and meat drippings - to thicken. The meat may continue to cook and tenderize while reheating. As a one-pot meal, stew is simple to prepare in advance and then serve in an attractive crock for the holidays.

Lasagna

Lasagna is a layered pasta dish featuring flat noodle sheets, cheese, sauce, and sometimes meat like ground beef or sausage. Lasagnas that are served right out of the oven can be runny even if they taste scrumptious. Baking a lasagna and letting it sit overnight allows all of the layers to set, making for a much more cohesive and fortified dish the following day.

Curries

Curries are typically made with many spices that help to make the dish flavorful. A curry that is freshly made may feature intense flavor because each of its components can be tasted individually. After a night of resting in the refrigerator, those flavors meld and mellow. Furthermore, if potatoes are used in the recipe, a night in the fridge gives the potatoes an opportunity to absorb the spices, making for an even tastier meal.

Meatloaf

The herbs and spices in a meatloaf continue to release their flavors, and letting the loaf sit can improve the texture and the ability to slice it without it falling apart. Consider pan-frying individual slices of meatloaf until they're browned so they'll be crisp on the outside and tender in the middle.

Many meals can be made ahead of time for holiday dinners and will taste even better when they are served the following day.

Up on the housetop, hanging lights

Decorating for the holidays safely

When December arrives, decorations are hung both inside and out at millions of homes, with some celebrants going to great lengths to express their holiday spirit. Although this tradition can make the holidays even more festive, decorating a home’s exterior has safety risks. The following tips may help homeowners to stay safe.

Homeowners should never decorate alone.

A second person can ensure a ladder remains steady while the other decorator is hanging lights, and they can help lift potentially heavy lawn decorations, thus reducing the risk of injury.

The appropriate decorations and tools should be used.

The American Red Cross urges individuals to use only decorations designed for outdoor use when decorating home exteriors. Indoor lights should never be strung outdoors, even in small quantities. In addition, the Red Cross recommends that homeowners who intend to use nails or hooks for hanging decorations first confirm they are insulated, which can help to avoid electrocution and reduce fire risk.

People are advised to pick the right day to decorate their home’s exterior. They may consult the weather forecast and choose a day when their efforts will not be hampered by wind, rain, snow, or other inclement weather. If it has already snowed, people should avoid decorating until the snow has melted, as ice may linger beneath the snow. It is also unsafe to work on a snow-covered roof. Homeowners should decorate on a day with ample daylight and put the task on hold if the weather takes a sudden turn for the worse.

Homeowners should inspect their exterior and interior string lights and other plug-in decorations at the beginning of each season to ensure there are no frayed or cracked wires. Damaged wires pose a significant fire hazard, so any damaged strands should be discarded and replaced.

Decorations should be plugged into the correct outlets.

The energy experts at FirstEnergy note that outdoor lights and inflatable decorations should be plugged into circuits protected by ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs). Older homes may not be equipped with such outlets, particularly on their exteriors. Replacing existing outlets with GFCIs is a job that a professional electrician should be hired to handle before decorations are put up.

After the decorations are up, homeowners should utilize a timer for exterior lights. Lights should be not kept on overnight, which can be costly and pose a safety hazard. Utilize a timer so lights come on at night and turn off around bedtime, if not earlier.

Decorating a home's exterior for the holiday season can be fun, but homeowners should prioritize safety and take steps to reduce their risk for accident or injury.

Our uniquely curated museum displays present the town, the people, and the experiences of Hershey.

present the town, the people, and the experiences of Hershey.

Our uniquely curated museum displays present the town, the people, and the experiences of Hershey.

Our museum shop is artisan based and locally focused.

Our facility offers private rental opportunities for special events.

Holiday Train Show

Check website for holiday hours and events!

Check

Holiday Train Show

Check website for holiday hours and events!

Check website for holiday hours and events! History Happens Here

History Happens Here

Featuring one of life’s most savory and delicious comfort foods, join with those who have discovered the “from-scratch” meat pies that are made at Zook’s Homemade Chicken Pies. Surrounded by Amish farmlands in the heart of the PA Dutch countryside, this family owned and operated business uses special mouth-watering recipes that are making their beef, chicken, and sausage pies more famous with each passing year.

From the humble beginnings in their Amish farmhouse kitchen to a USDA inspected commercial enterprise, the quality and taste of their pies remains the same, even as the distribution has increased from one market stand to multiple stores and farm markets throughout Pennsylvania and surrounding states.

You are always invited to stop by the Zook’s retail store to stock up on these quick and easy meals that are tasty and nutritious too! In addition to meat pies. Zook’s has a nice selection of specialty food items, including homemade soups, bake-at-home meals and fresh bakery items.

Fresh Baked Goods

Fresh Made Meat Pies!

Four ways to achieve a greater work-life balance

Individuals have to juggle many different responsibilities on a daily basis. Those with full- or part-time jobs; children, spouses or partners; or aging family members who require assistance will often find they are pulled in different directions. In many cases, work takes priority over family time because people rely on their jobs for the income that funds their lifestyles. Rather than jeopardizing that income, some individuals may make time concessions that favor employment over personal relationships and family time. Recent data indicates that many people are trapped in unhealthy work-life balances and cannot find the time to unwind and enjoy themselves. The e-commerce company Groupon asked 2,000 Americans about stress at work, and 60% indicated that pressures and responsibilities of the workplace and home life do not have boundaries. Learning to balance work and life better may come from following a few tips.

Limit distractions as much as possible.

Distractions pull attention away from tasks, which can make it harder to complete jobs on time. Schedule tasks that require your utmost concentration when other people are not around. Perhaps this means coming into the office during off-peak hours or waiting until a spouse or the kids go to work or school before you start on things that require greater concentration. Some people may find that they prefer to wake up a little earlier and have quiet time to get things done while others are asleep.

Figure out your home priorities. Schedule your home priorities just as you would work meetings and other responsibilities. While you may not be able to attend every sports practice or game, make it a point to get to as many events as possible. Put it in the calendar or planner as a must-do.

Maximize your paid time off.

Chances are you are entitled to a certain number of days off. Do not squander the opportunity to use these days. Map out priorities for the next couple of months and see when your time away from work will be needed. Then utilize paid time off for these events as well as vacations.

End work at a certain time.

It’s easy to let work infiltrate home time, especially for those who are remote workers. Set a distinct end time for the job, and reinforce it by turning off your computer or other devices, or physically lock the door to your office. Schedule tasks that are important to you directly after work, so you won’t be tempted to continue working.

Finding work-life balance can take time and require breaking established habits, but it is one way to reduce stress and feel more personally satisfied.

TIPS FOR FIRST-TIME HOMEBUYERS

Real estate has garnered considerable attention since 2020. For a variety of reasons, including the pandemic, real estate prices and mortgage interest rates have increased significantly. With those increases, young homebuyers may feel as though their dream of homeownership will never be realized. Indeed, data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) indicates the median age of homebuyers is now significantly higher than it was two decades ago. In 2023, the median age of buyers was 49, which marked an increase of 10 years compared to the age of the average buyer 20 years ago.

First-time homebuyers may face a challenging real estate market, but a few tips can help them navigate their task.

Expect to move quickly. Inventory remains very low, which means buyers are in heated competition for the few homes that are on the market. In late 2023, NAR data indicated the rate of home sales was the lowest it had been in 13 years, so buyers will likely need to move quickly and make an offer if they see a home they like, as chances are the property won't be on the market too long before it's sold. In fact, the NAR noted that homes spent an average of just 23 days on the market in October 2023.

2 Apply for mortgage preapproval. The competitive nature of the market for buyers means it's in their best interests to arrange financing prior to beginning their home search. A mortgage preapproval can be a competitive advantage, as it indicates to sellers that buyers won't be denied a mortgage or lack financing after making an offer. The financial experts at NerdWallet note that buyers will be asked to provide details about their employment, income, debt, and financial accounts when applying for mortgage preapproval. They should gather this information and clear up any issues, such as credit disputes or delinquent accounts, prior to applying for preapproval.

3 Set a realistic budget and expect to offer over asking price. A financial planner or real estate professional can help first-time buyers determine how much they should spend on a home. In the current market, buyers should know that they will likely need to pay more than the asking price for a home. For example, the NAR reports that 28% of homes sold for above list price in October 2023. With that in mind, first-time buyers may do well to look for homes that are under budget in anticipation of offering more than list price after seeing a property.

The real estate market remains competitive for buyers. First-time buyers can utilize these strategies to increase their chances of realizing their dream of homeownership.

Find Fall fun for everyone at The Markets at Shrewsbury! Bring the whole family to enjoy pumpkin season with classic events like Cruise Nights and Community Yard Sales to annual favorites like Trunk or Treat and new events including Customer Appreciation Day!

and

Philadelphia Flower Show - March 6

Day Trips

• Biglerville Apple Festival – Oct. 12

• Longwood Gardens – Nov. 21

• Christmas in NYC (Do As You Please) – Dec. 11

• Christmas in Bethlehem – Dec. 12

Overnight Tours

• New Hampshire – Oct. 14-18

• Trapp Family Lodge – Dec. 3-6

Please visit our

DC Cherry Blossoms - March 27

Grand Ole Opry 100th Anniversary (Nashville, TN) - April 8-13

Mystery Trip - April 17

Chanticleer Gardens - May 14

Annapolis Blue Angels - May 20

St. Michael’s MD - June 5

New England Rails & Sails - June 6-10

Cape Cod & Nantucket - June 23-27

Dates subject to change

A kid’s best friend

Parents recognize the strong bonds children often form with their pets. The unconditional love that animals offer can be just what kids need at the end of the school day, and it's hard to resist cuddle time with a cat or dog.

Pets can also foster learning and growth in youngsters. According to Michigan State University Extension, pet ownership can teach kids responsibility and help them to develop important life skills like trust and compassion.

In a variety of ways, parents can help to guide their children in interacting with and caring for pets.

Teach gentle interactions

Young children need a lot of supervision and reinforcement to learn how to be gentle when petting or engaging with companion animals. Toddlers and even kindergartners may be unaware of how rough they can be, and young children may think of pets as toys. In addition, the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry notes that children age 4 and younger do not have the maturity to control their aggressive and angry impulses. As a result, kids age 4 and younger should be monitored at all times when they are in the company of pets, and all children should be taught to be gentle with these animals.

Incorporate play sessions

Playing together is a great way for kids and pets to bond and get some exercise. Purina behaviorist Annie Valuska suggests activities like finding treats in hidden places or practicing commands or tricks such as high five or rolling over. Having children practice commands with the pet not only teaches kids how to interact with pets, but also acclimates animals to following commands from kids. Children also may be able to help pets adjust to a new pet carrier or to wearing a leash.

Take kids along to the vet

Children can learn a lot about pet health and care at the vet's office. Parents can bring youngsters along to help out and see what is involved in routine veterinary visits. Kids can soothe and distract the pet during the administration of vaccines and watch how a vet assesses an animal's overall health. Watching a pet go through a physical examination also may help a child become more brave in relation to his or her own medical checkups.

Choosing Halloween costumes for furry friends

Dressing up for Halloween is a popular way to celebrate the spooky holiday, and children and adults may wish to include their pets in this activity. Some families even plan to match their pet's fall attire to their own.

There are plenty of costumes and pet clothing items designed for pets, but not all of them are recommended by humane organizations or vets. People should keep the following tips in mind when selecting costumes for their pets.

Check that the clothing item is sized appropriately so that it is not restrictive.

The pet should be able to walk properly, jump, groom, and relieve itself, and the costume should not impede its vision. The costume's materials should also be fire-retardant and nontoxic. Pets should not be left in costumes for too long, as the clothing may affect the animal's ability to control its body temperature.

Watch for behaviors that may indicate the pet is stressed by wearing the costume.

Pets feeling anxious may groom excessively or make more noise than usual. Dogs may pant a lot or yawn. If a pet is pawing or pulling at the costume, it might be making the animal uncomfortable.

Make sure the pet is able to relay body language while wearing the costume so it may communicate with other animals.

Costumes could interfere with that ability. If the pet will be wearing the costume indoors and not in proximity to other animals, it may be fine. Pets that will be walking outdoors and come into contact with other companion animals might act differently, and other animals may act aggressively when faced with a pet in a costume.

Involve kids in feeding and bathing the pet

Children can be responsible for putting pre-measured scoops of food in the pet’s bowl and helping to refill the pet’s water dish. Kids also may be able to offer treats to pets that are able to take them gently out of a person’s hand.

When it comes time to groom a pet, children can assist with scrubdowns in the tub or at a grooming station in a nearby retail store. More hands available can help wrangle a wet and slippery animal. Kids may find it soothing to brush pets, but they must do so gently.

Teach about quiet time

Pets need opportunities to rest, and children should understand that quiet time means the pet should be left alone. Kids can help set up a cozy napping spot where a dog or cat can retreat when it needs to rest.

As kids get older, they can take on more significant pet care responsibilities according to their maturity level. Tasks may include feeding pets in the morning or evening, taking dogs for after-school walks, taking pets outside to relieve themselves, cleaning up messes in the yard or emptying litter boxes, cleaning a pet’s food and water bowls, and cleaning up pet play areas, including vacuuming these spaces. The responsibilities can be shared among all the members of the household so that no individual is overloaded with pet care tasks.

Having a pet can provide a variety of benefits as kids grow up, and parents can help to ensure interactions proceed smoothly.

Back-to-school GUIDELINES

With a new school year in its early stages, parents and schools are concerned with ensuring children's safety and well-being. Whether a child is heading to kindergarten or high school, parents may consider the following tips, provided by the Center for Safe Schools.

Parents should maintain open lines of communication with their child. They should encourage the child to share concerns about safety, interactions with peers, or unusual incidents. Awareness of the child's feelings may help parents address issues promptly and offer guidance.

If a child walks or bikes to school, parents should help him or her plan a safe route that minimizes exposure to busy roads and dangerous intersections. Parents and children may practice the route together until children are comfortable navigating it independently. Children should be reminded to wait in well-lit areas, cross streets at designated crosswalks, and avoid distractions like headphones while walking near traffic.

Parents are encouraged to review personal safety guidelines with their children, regardless of the children's ages. Parents may

want to avoid using the term "stranger danger," as statistically, most child abductions are committed by someone known to the victim. Children should be given a list of trusted adults they can contact in an emergency.

Children with access to the internet should be educated about online safety. They should know how to protect their personal information, avoid sharing sensitive data, and recognize potential online threats. Guardians may consider installing parental control software if necessary.

Parents should ensure children know their full name, the parents’ contact information, and emergency contact details. Children should memorize these details in case they need help and cannot access their phone, if they have one.

Parents may want to discuss bullying with children and emphasize the importance of treating others with kindness and respect.

If a child is bullied or witnesses someone else being bullied, the incident should be reported to a trusted adult.

The beginning of the school year likely includes a review of emergency procedures at the child's school. Parents can engage in a conversation with their children about emergency preparedness. Discussing scenarios, creating a plan, and emphasizing the importance of staying calm can empower children to respond effectively in unexpected situations.

As children embark on another school year, a combination of communication, education, and preparation can go a long way in creating a secure environment where children can thrive.

For school safety resources, visit www.centerforsafeschools. org.

Fresh-Picked APPLES

• Garden Center bursting In fall with mums, pumpkins, straw bales & more - and seasonal favorites thru the year.

• Shelves filled with mouth-watering jarred goods, salsas, jams & jellies, butters, preserves and honey

• Baked good treats include scrumptious cookies, whoopie pies, fruit pies & more!

for Thanksgiving Cooking carefully

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) urges added caution when cooking on Thanksgiving, the leading day of the year for home cooking fires. Overall, cooking is the leading cause of U.S. home fires and injuries, and the second-leading cause of home fire deaths. Unattended cooking is the leading contributing factor in cooking fires and fire deaths.

The NFPA offers the following tips for cooking safely on Thanksgiving.

Never leave the kitchen while cooking on the stovetop. Some types of cooking, especially those that involve frying or sautéing with oil, need continuous attention.

When cooking a turkey, remain at home and check it regularly.

Make use of timers to keep track of cooking times, particularly for foods that must be in the oven or on the stove for a longer period.

Keep items that can catch fire, like oven mitts, wooden utensils, food wrappers, and towels, at

least 3 feet away from the cooking area. Avoid long sleeves and hanging fabrics that can come in contact with a heat source.

Always cook with a lid beside the pan. If a small grease fire starts, smother the flames by sliding the lid over the pan, and then turn off the burner. Do not remove the cover because the fire could start again. Let the pan cool for a long time.

If something catches fire in the oven, turn off the heat and keep the oven door closed. The oven door should only be opened once the fire is completely out, and the person opening it should stand to the side as he or she does so. Anyone who has doubts or concerns is advised to contact the local fire department for assistance.

Keep children and pets at least 3 feet away from the stove and areas where hot food or drink is prepared or carried. Hot foods and liquids should be placed away from table and counter edges.

In addition, the NFPA strongly discourages the use of turkey fryers that use cooking oil, which

can cause devastating burns. For a safe alternative, the NFPA recommends purchasing a fried turkey from a grocery store or restaurant or buying a fryer that does not use oil.

For additional fire safety information, visit www.nfpa.org.

Mon.-Fri. 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. • Sat. 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.

LLC Experience the difference - we deliver full cubic yards. Prompt delivery - same day if ordered by noon.

Fast Delivery, Friendly Staff

Garman’s Mulch measures by the cubic yard, not by the scoop. Many of our customers comment on the difference in the amount of mulch they receive compared to other suppliers.

We will work long, work late, or do whatever it takes to make sure you are satisfied with your order.

We offer three grades of natural mulch, three grades of colored mulch, natural colored rubber playground mulch, mushroom mulch and topsoil.

For winter needs, we provide orders of Blaschak Coal with free delivery of 2 ton orders or more.

Garman’s Mulch is conveniently located in Manheim PA. We service all local neighborhoods including Manheim, Mount Joy, Elizabethtown, Lititz, Lancaster, and all remaining Lancaster County communities.

Located in Manheim, PA Manheim Chamber Member and Supporting the Manheim Community

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Ways parents

Nestled between the start of a new school year and the arrival of the holiday season, Halloween is an opportunity for children and adults alike to have fun as they dress up in costumes and indulge in sweet treats. Even though Halloween is designed to be an entertaining day, it is not without risks. Parents can work together to help reduce the safety risks associated with Halloween.

Lack of visibility and dim lighting at night can increase the risk of pedestrians’ being struck by cars on Halloween. Improving visibility may go a long way toward cutting down on accidents and related deaths. Homeowners can keep their lights turned on and perhaps illuminate neighborhoods even more by temporarily installing strands of Christmas or bistro-style lights. Children may carry battery-powered flashlights,

can make Halloween safer

lanterns, or glow sticks to make them more visible. Reflective tape placed on candy bags or costumes also can help.

Parents may set up safe trick-or-treat zones. The Trunk or Treat events that emerged several years ago sought to take some of the risk out of Halloween by containing trick-or-treating to a parking lot at a school or church. Neighbors can establish something similar close to home by petitioning their town for permits to close a specific road or roads to vehicular traffic for a block party of sorts. Residents in the area can trick-or-treat and celebrate in the street without risk of injury from cars. Organizers may consider asking participating neighbors to chip in for refreshments and entertainment, if desired.

If children have food allergies, their parents should check the ingredient labels on the candy

their children bring home. Allergens may include peanuts and tree nuts, eggs, dairy, gluten, and soy. Inspecting candy nutrition information can help weed out candy that may cause a reaction for those with food allergies or other concerns.

Adults and parents can take additional steps to prepare their homes for Halloween. They should keep the porch and front yard clear of tripping hazards, such as garden hoses, decorations, and toys. Leaves and branches should be swept away to prevent tripping or slipping, and pets should be restrained so they do not jump on trick-or-treaters. Adults are advised to offer a variety of treats for kids of all ages so trick-or-treaters get age-appropriate items. Halloween fun and safety can go hand in hand this October.

The Lititz Shirt Factory has undergone a multi-million dollar transformation from a turn-of-thecentury brick clothing factory to a contemporary rustic but chic restaurant taproom and entertainment venue. Located just one block from the picturesque town square, The Shirt Factory, in partnership with Collusion Tap Works, offers an affordable opportunity to host your wedding, birthday party, family reunion, business meeting, or corporate gathering. This unique two-tier space consists of a large main floor and a 2nd-floor loft.

This space can be customized for almost any event and includes a fully-staffed 16-tap bar, serving finely crafted beers, wine, and cocktails. The full stagecomes equipped with a professional sound system for dance bands or business presentations. We are dedicated to ensuring your event is special whether for a small gathering of 25 or a large affair for up to 100 people.

Collusion Tap works skilled kitchen staff offers many delicious catering options.

Tips for holiday cookie cutting

Baking is a tradition in many households, and goodies include cakes, pies, and cookies. Cookies are a tradition passed down through the ages. In medieval Europe, small spiced cookies were exchanged as treats, and people still bake and share gingerbread cookies today.

Cut cookies are especially prominent during the holiday season, with some families having favorite cookie cutter shapes and dough recipes. Certain techniques can make baking sessions easier and help to ensure consistent results any time of year.

Working on a lightly floured, cool surface, such as a cutting board or stone countertop, is recommended. Bakers should never work on a warm surface, which can cause dough to spread and stick.

The dough can be rolled out between two sheets of baking or parchment paper to prevent it from sticking. Betty Crocker recommends a thickness of about 1/8 inch, unless noted in the recipe. The parchment paper also enables rolledout dough to be easily transferred to a refrigerator or elsewhere.

When rolling out dough, portioning the dough into a few smaller amounts allows it to roll out more easily. This will also help it to chill more readily.

Cookies cut most easily when the dough is chilled. The dough should be refrigerated for as long as possible, ideally an hour or more - even overnight. The more chilled, the firmer the dough will be.

Rubber rolling pin rings that slip onto each side of the rolling pin can help ensure that the dough is being rolled out to a uniform thickness.

Cookie cutters should be dipped in flour with each cut. It is a good idea to work from the center and move out to the edges when cutting out designs. When cutting, it is a good idea to maximize space and avoid scraps and rerolling.

Some expert bakers say that metal cookie cutters cut cleaner than plastic ones. Whichever cutter is used, the cookie should be cut by pressing straight down. The cookie cutter should not be twisted or jiggled when being used. Doughs with a high butter content can help, as the extra grease helps separate the dough from the cutters.

If cut cookies have gotten warmer, placing them in the freezer for a few minutes will help them firm up again before baking. This will help to ensure the cookies will not spread or become misshapen while baking.

Extra steps may seem like they will take a lot of time. However, the extra effort and attention to detail may help produce better results.