Fairfield explores future of sports

Enrollment data for Fairfield Area High School

Fairfield Area School District administrators proposed Monday night that the district allow some athletes to play for another school district. Athletic Director Keith Bruck told several dozen people gathered in the high school auditorium that he and High School Principal Brian McDowell do not believe the district has enough students to support football, wrestling, or

Gettysburg Borough tax, parking rate increases proposed

Gettysburg Borough Parking Manager Becka Fissel demonstrates how parking rates are adjusted as Borough Police Chief Robert Glenny looks on.

Taxes and some parking rates are likely on the rise in Gettysburg Borough.  During their final budget workshop of the year, council concurred that a 9.08% real estate tax increase is needed to balance the 2025 budget. Under the current proposal, parking meters that currently cost $1 per hour will increase to $1.50.  Borough Manager

Vanessa Sanders is new GASD Communications Coordinator

Vanessa Sanders

A longtime reporter will be the Gettysburg Area School District’s next communications coordinator. During its meeting on Monday, the board voted 7-1 to hire Gettysburg Times reporter Vanessa Sanders.  Cynthia Ayers voted against the motion, as she has been against every human resources recommendation for several months because she believes the district needs to study

Gettysburg faces $500,000 budget deficit 

Gettysburg Borough Police Chief Robert Glenny

As the Gettysburg Borough Council closed its second budget workshop on Monday evening, they realized the actual deficit for 2025 is about $500,000. “The deficit is the deficit,” Council President Matthew Moon said after the governing body spent more than four hours over the past two weeks discussing possible revenue sources and spending reductions. The

Gettysburg School Board, teachers’ union, reach agreement

GASD-Logo

The Gettysburg Area School District Board of Directors and its teachers’ union have a new contract. During a recent meeting, the board approved the agreement in a 7-1 vote. Michelle Smyers was absent and Cynthia Ayers dissented. The four-year agreement gives teachers an average 3.9% salary increase in the first year of the contract, according

Gettysburg nixes proposal to cut police force

Current staffing levels for the Borough of Gettysburg.

Gettysburg Borough staffing levels were the focus of the borough council’s first budget preparation workshop this week. The borough currently budgets for the following full-time staff members in each department: three parking, four planning, four office of the manager, four public works, 14 sworn police officers, and one police secretary. In 2025, the borough hopes

Gettysburg budget season begins

Facts about the 2025 Gettysburg Borough Budget

A financial boost to the Borough of Gettysburg is drying up. During Tuesday’s meeting, Borough Manager Charles Gable told the council that the municipality has $716,000 remaining of the $3.1 million it received from the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA). The borough has been using the money to cover revenue shortfalls in its

Gettysburg expects to keep parking fees the same in 2025

gettysburg connection gettysburg parking

When the Gettysburg Borough Council meets, one can safely assume that parking will be discussed. During Monday’s council workshop, the governing body advanced more more paid spaces, discussed the holiday season fee waiver, and contemplated rates for 2025. Fees Borough Parking Manager Becka Fissel is not proposing any changes to parking fees in 2025. She

Fairfield School District Explores Facility Fees

Fairfield Area School District logo

Proposed fees associated with a Facility Use Policy initiated a lot of discussion at a recent meeting of the Fairfield Area School District Board of Directors. Superintendent Thomas Haupt told the board in September that the district does not charge outside groups anything to use its facilities. The district, in turn, then loses money because

Gettysburg elementary schools seeing success with new schedule

James Gettys Elementary School

Gettysburg Area School District leaders say they are seeing success with a new way to teach fourth and fifth grade students. During their meeting on Monday, James Gettys Elementary School Principal and Kindergarten teacher Nicole Roy touted the school’s many accomplishments. Departmentalization, or having teachers teach one subject matter, topped the list. Wells said departmentization

Gettysburg approves revised sign ordinance; council silent on Lincoln Square camera request

Gettysburg Square1

With no fanfare or public comment, the Gettysburg Borough Council unanimously approved changes to its sign ordinance on Monday.  “This has been a long time coming; we have been working on this for almost eight years,” Borough Council President Matthew Moon said.  The new ordinance allows structures with one business tenant to have up to

Gettysburg construction project will not block businesses 

A map shows the impact a construction project will have on Gettysburg's North Washington Street this fall.

Gettysburg Borough Manager Charles Gable wants to stress that all North Washington Street businesses will be accessible during a four-month construction project. The borough will replace water and sewer lines, add crosswalks, and extend sidewalks between Railroad Street and Racehorse Alley. The $1.07 million project will begin after Labor Day and be finished by Christmas.

Gettysburg Area School Board approves coaches, gives district residents free parking at the Middle School lots

The Gettysburg Aear School District logo.

The Gettysburg Area School Board decided Monday that district taxpayers will receive free parking in town and fall coaches will be paid for their services.  Earlier this month, the board failed to approve supplemental contracts for 31 fall coaches. Although the vote was 4-3, it failed because board rules state that the majority of directors—not

Fairfield improves technology as new school year approaches

Fairfield Area School District logo

Fairfield Area School District leaders are transforming the way students learn in a digital world. During their August meeting, Aaron Taylor, assistant to the superintendent, told the board that the administration is implementing several changes this school year to help students learn. With snow days being a thing of the past, the district is making

Major construction project to affect Gettysburg’s Washington Street

A map shows the impact a construction project will have on Gettysburg's North Washington Street this fall.

Gettysburg Borough leaders are preparing for an expensive, inconvenient, but necessary construction project on North Washington Street.  The borough will replace water and sewer lines, add crosswalks, and extend sidewalks between Railroad Street and Racehorse Alley. The work is expected to begin after Labor Day and be finished by Christmas. The borough hired York Excavating

Gettysburg School Board sees parking revenue, denies coaches’ agreements

Gettysburg Warrior logo

Charging the public to park in downtown lots is proving to be financially beneficial for the Gettysburg Area School District. During Monday’s meeting, business Manager Belinda Wallen reported that the district earned $2,500 for the first month it charged people to park in Lincoln Elementary and Gettysburg Area Middle school lots. The district only expects

Gettysburg reinstates bus parking spots

Gettysburg Borough

Buses once again have designated parking spots in Gettysburg Borough.  At their monthly meeting on Monday, the borough council authorized management to create bus-only parking spots where they deem them to be suitable. The spots are another iteration of a pilot program that was deemed to be a failure in 2023. Judie Butterfield, Chad-Alan Carr,

Gettysburg focuses on signs during monthly workshop

Gettysburg Borough

All signs indicate that Gettysburg Borough Council will talk about signs for a while. Whether it is the sign ordinance or signs telling people where to park and for how long, the municipality’s leaders remain focused on the topic. Sign Ordinance Planning Director John Whitmore told the council during its workshop on Monday that he

Fairfield looks to implement mental health curriculum

Fairfield Area School District logo

Fairfield Area School District administrators want to help students develop resiliency and improve their mental health. Aaron Taylor, assistant to the superintendent for curriculum, special education, and student services, told the board of education in June that the district would begin looking out for struggling students and better prepare them to reach out for help

Gettysburg School Board explores paid parking, OKs tax hike

GASD Middle School scaled

The days of parking for free on Gettysburg Area School District grounds in Gettysburg Borough and walking around town may end. At their meeting on Monday, the board voted unanimously to enter into an agreement with Parking Management Company to manage parking at Lincoln Elementary and Gettysburg Area Middle schools.  “We are not aiming to

Gettysburg Area School District honors retirees

Gettysburg Area School District retirees.

As the 2024 school year ends, more than 372 years of experience leaves Gettysburg Area School District. During Monday’s meeting, the district’s board of directors recognized 13 retiring employees. Dr. Jason Perrin, superintendent, expressed appreciation to the staff members for supporting the district’s students.   “A lot of institutional knowledge walks out the door with them,

Biglerville High teachers combine creative forces for art show

Hannah Meeson and Heather Sefcheck

Two Biglerville High School teachers who share decades of memories invite the public to experience their art-filled world. Hannah Meeson and Heather Sefcheck refer to themselves as the Double-h 8-bonds since their first names begin with the letter H and their birthdays fall on the 8th of the month, Meeson’s in April and Sefcheck’s in

Gettysburg honors Sgt. Larry Weikert, questions gift of gun

Gettysburg Borough Mayor Rita Frealing, left, congratulates retiring Police Sgt. Larry Weikert.

Gettysburg Borough Council and Mayor Rita Frealing unanimously praised retiring Police Sgt. Larry Weikert while questioning whether to give him his department-issued gun during their meeting on Monday. Weikert joined the borough staff in 1988 as a code enforcement officer and part-time patrol officer. The borough hired him as a full-time police officer in 2003

Gettysburg council discusses complicated and contentious issues

Gettysburg Borough

Navigating Gettysburg’s sidewalks can be tricky. Fixing the problem is equally challenging.  During their workshop on Monday, the borough council focused on two of the many issues surrounding sidewalks – stormwater management and tree damage. They also discussed two other heavily debated topics — the town’s sign ordinance and reserved parking spaces.  Stormwater management When

Fairfield board moves towards tax increase 

Fairfield Area School District logo

The Fairfield Area School Board plans to raise taxes by 3.63 percent this year. During their April 22 meeting, the board unanimously approved a $22 million preliminary budget proposal. The board expects to give the budget final approval on June 24. Business Manager Tim Stanton told the board the budget focuses on tackling deferred maintenance,

Gettysburg advances zoning change for libraries

The Adams County Library System is seeking a zoning text amendment so it can relocate its Gettysburg Branch from Baltimore Street to the United Lutheran Seminary,

The Gettysburg Borough Council is one step closer to allowing libraries in the institutional zone. However, elected officials made it clear Monday that approval does not mean they are permitting the Adams County Library System to move its Gettysburg branch. That decision lies solely with the library system’s board of directors.  During their regular business

Parking enforcement issues continue to plague Gettysburg

parking meter

Parking meter bags have created a firestorm in the Borough of Gettysburg over the past several years. Discussions to remedy the issue continue to fall flat. At borough council’s workshop on Monday, representatives from Christ Lutheran and Saint Francis Xavier Roman Catholic churches said borough staff told them they were no longer allowed to place

James Gettys Elementary leaders discuss accomplishments

James Gettys Elementary School

James Gettys Elementary School teachers visited the Gettysburg Area School District Board of Education meeting this week to tout the school’s many successes. Principal Ted Wells told the board he was proud of the school’s Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA) results and Acadience Reading K–6 benchmark goals. “We have really weathered the COVID storm

Gettysburg seeks grants, approves bus parking pilot program

Gettysburg Borough

The Borough of Gettysburg is actively seeking several grants to improve infrastructure and keep citizens safe. It is also making another attempt at relieving traffic congestion caused by tour buses. At their meeting on Monday, the council unanimously approved applying for the federal Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) grant. The borough is

Fairfield chooses no changes to football program

Fairfield Area School District logo

The Fairfield Area School Board threw a Hail Mary to the varsity football program during its Feb. 12 meeting. High School Principal Brian McDowell said the district’s size has made it difficult to recruit new players. In 2009, 437 students attended Fairfield Area High School. Currently, 283 students are enrolled. Last year, The Knights ended

Gettysburg Council discusses library move, thefts, and towing

Gettysburg Borough

The Gettysburg Borough Council discussed a zoning amendment, vehicle thefts, and towing fees during its February meeting. Zoning Proposal Council unanimously advanced an initiative last week that will help the Adams County Library System move its Gettysburg branch. After much discussion, the council unanimously voted to draft an ordinance that would allow libraries in the

Franklin Township Elementary leaders share successes; GASD renews Vida Charter School

Franklin Township Elementary School

Franklin Township Elementary School’s success was on full display at the Gettysburg Area School District Board of Education meeting on Feb. 5.  Dr. Shelly Lappi, principal, brought several teachers, parents, and children to the meeting to tout the school’s accomplishments. Lappi’s presentation was part of an ongoing series of visits from school administrators at board

YWCA CEO resigns, leadership group focused on future

YWCA Gettysburg & Adams County

YWCA Gettysburg & Adams County CEO Melissa Leathery has submitted her resignation, according to a press release from the organization. Leathery joined the YW in July 2023. The YW has named an interim leadership team, the release states. The team includes YWCA Advocacy Director Nancy Lilley, Board Chair Lyne Aurand, Vice Chair Julie Haller, board

Gettysburg Council aims to help library stay in the borough

The Adams County Library System plans to move its Gettysburg branch to the United Lutheran Seminary campus.

The Adams County Library System hopes to keep a branch in the Borough of Gettysburg. Similarly, the borough council seems committed to making that happen. At their workshop on Monday, council members expressed support for a zoning text amendment that will allow the library to build on the United Lutheran Seminary campus on the borough’s

Fairfield teachers ask for biliteracy certification

Fairfield Area School District logo

Fairfield Area High School teachers hope to give students the opportunity to add one more credential to their resume. At their Jan. 9 meeting, foreign language teachers Ute Cline and Tara Phillips asked the district’s board of education to adopt the Pennsylvania Seal of Biliteracy. The seal recognizes students who can speak, listen, and write

Gettysburg Borough Council sets 2024 priorities

Gettysburg Borough

The Gettysburg Borough Council’s 2024 priorities will be a sign ordinance, boroughwide rezoning, sidewalk ordinance, and a code enforcement ticketing ordinance. Elected officials unanimously chose the priorities during their first business meeting of 2024. Borough Manager Charles Gable said the council setting priorities helps staff know what they should focus on. Previous councils, Gable said,

Matthew Moon named Gettysburg Borough Council president

Gettysburg Borough Council President Matthew Moon, left, accepts the gavel from former President Wesley Heyser.

The Gettysburg Borough Council unanimously named Matthew Moon its president during the governing body’s biennial reorganization meeting on Tuesday. He succeeds Wesley Heyser, who did not seek re-election. Councilperson Judith Butterfield will support Moon as council vice president. She succeeds Moon, who served as vice president last year. Moon, a Democrat and San Francisco native,

Majestic’s Jeffrey Gabel takes final bow

Jeffrey Gabel, founding executive director of Gettysburg College's Majestic Theater, is closing out his career.

For 20 years, a man with a dazzling personality, bright smile, colorful bowties, and incredible work ethic has been the cornerstone of the arts community in historic downtown Gettysburg. Under Jeffrey Gabel’s tutelage, the Majestic Theater on Carlisle Street underwent a $16.5 million renovation and several other upgrades.  Gabel welcomed national stars such as Hal

Gettysburg Borough Sign Ordinance changes postponed

Proposed changes to the Gettysburg Borough Sign Ordinance.

Changes to the Gettysburg Borough sign ordinance are on hold. During their meeting on Monday, the council unanimously voted to delay voting on proposed revisions until April 2024.  Councilperson Judie Butterfield was absent. The decision came after several public comments, including from the leaders of four business advocacy groups.  Carrie Stuart of Gettysburg Adams Chamber

Ferguson-Miller to lead Fairfield Area School Board

Fairfield Area School District logo

Candace Ferguson-Miller is the new president of the Fairfield Area School Board. She replaces Jennifer Holz, who remains on the board. The board chose Jack Liller to retain his position as vice president. At their biennial reorganization meeting on Dec. 4, the board welcomed new members Erica Bollinger, James Fisher, and Melissa J. Kearchner. The

Hassinger, Dickerson to lead Gettysburg Area School Board 

The Gettysburg Area School Board reorganized on Dec. 4. Kenny Hassinger and Michael Dickerson were named president and vice president, respectively.

The Gettysburg Area School District Board of Directors once again named Kenny Hassinger and Michael Dickerson its leaders during their annual reorganization meeting on Monday. Hassinger will serve as president and Dickerson will be vice president. The board first elected Hassinger president in December 2019 and reappointed him in December 2021. The board appointed Dickerson

Gettysburg Borough Council talks trees

shade trees

The Gettysburg Borough Council hopes to increase communication with the group that plants Gettysburg’s trees. The Shade Tree Commission is responsible for the planting, replanting, pruning, health, and removal of plants, shrubs, and trees within the borough. The commission has been inactive for several years, but Chair David Rice and his team are eager to

Gettysburg Area School District to enhance emergency communications

Gettysburg Warrior logo

Gettysburg Area School District leaders are working to enhance emergency communication. District Director of Safety and Security Jim O’Shea told the board on Monday that the administration is slowly rolling out the Raptor Alert System. O’Shea said the phone and computer app will allow staff and administrators to report emergencies in real-time and call 911

Gettysburg Borough OKs longer rec park lease

GARA operates the Gettysburg Rec Park.

The Gettysburg Area Recreation Authority (GARA) is here to stay. At its meeting on Monday, the Gettysburg Borough Council unanimously approved a 25-year lease of the Gettysburg Rec Park between the borough and GARA. The Borough of Gettysburg and Cumberland Township formed GARA in 2013 as an intermunicipal authority with a primary purpose of managing

Gettysburg budget plan includes no property tax hike

Gettysburg Borough

Gettysburg Borough Council plans to pass a 2024 budget that includes no property tax increase. The council expects to double the fire tax from 0.25 to 0.5 mills. The fire tax is sent directly to local volunteer fire companies. At their Oct. 30 budget workshop, the council took a deep dive into Police Chief Robert

Gettysburg plans changes to parking department

The Gettysburg Parking Department is seeking increases to its residential parking permit program.

The Gettysburg Borough Council continues to take a deep dive into its proposed 2024 budget, having spent about 4 hours and 45 minutes on the topic in the past two weeks. The council made no decisions but is leaning towards approving several changes to the Gettysburg Parking department. Parking fees The seven-member body informally agreed

Gettysburg Area School District to adopt Warrior logo

Gettysburg Warrior logo

Gettysburg Area School District will soon have an official Warrior logo. At the school board meeting on Monday, Board President Kenny Hassinger announced the board plans to officially adopt the arrowhead logo it has been using for several years at its Nov. 6 meeting.  The resolution was created in response to Kierstan Belle’s announcement on

2024 Gettysburg Borough budget talks set to begin

2024 Gettysburg Borough Budget

Manager Charles Gable presented to the council on Monday a 2024 Gettysburg Borough budget proposal that includes a $711,489 deficit. To fill the fiscal hole, Gable suggests elected officials consider a combination of options. Those suggestions include raising property taxes, increasing overnight parking rates, increasing fees, or using American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Funds. Gable

GASD moves forward with elementary renovations 

Lincoln Elementary school renovations will begin next spring.

Gettysburg Area School District will begin elementary school renovations in the coming months at a total cost of $30 million. Improvements to James Gettys Elementary School will begin in March, Dennis Rumsey, senior complex solutions manager of Trane Technologies, told the board during its Oct. 2 meeting. Crews will begin “behind-the-scenes work” after school throughout

Gettysburg council pauses oversized parking study

RVs parking in downtown Gettysburg are causing the council to explore oversized parking spaces.

Oversized parking spaces in the Borough of Gettysburg will disappear after Oct. 8. In July, the borough council approved a 90-day pilot program that set aside some spaces for large vehicles. Council members believe more busses are visiting downtown businesses since General Pickett’s Buffet on Steinwehr Avenue closed earlier this year. The busses are welcome,

FASD asks for public input on its educational program

Fairfield School District

The Fairfield Area School District (FASD) is forming its “Profile of a Graduate” to determine what skills a FASD graduate should have in order to succeed in today’s world. To create that profile, Superintendent Thomas J. Haupt asks parents, citizens, and business owners to complete a survey that will be available on the district website.

Gettysburg Area School District opens coaching positions

Gettysburg Warrior logo

The Gettysburg Area School District will open all head coaching positions each season. Currently, the district has all winter coaching positions posted on its website. Superintendent Jason Perrin wrote in an email Friday that district and board leadership made the decision. Previously, the board approved coaches for one year and renewed the agreement annually.  “The

Board retains Gettysburg Area High School tennis coach

A large crowd gathers to share thoughts on the Gettysburg Area High School tennis coach.

The Gettysburg Area School Board voted 6-2 Tuesday to retain a high school tennis coach whose employment has been the focal point of three meetings. At their meeting on Aug. 21, the Gettysburg Area School District’s Board of Directors voted to remove David Yates from the administration’s list of recommended hires. Yates, who is transgender

Gettysburg Area School Board pulls recommendation to rehire tennis coach

Sasha Yates stands outside the Gettysburg Area Middle School on Aug. 21. Yates has yet to be reinstated as the district's tennis coach. She is a transgender coach.

The Gettysburg Area High School girls’ tennis team is beginning its fall season without an official coach. The district’s school board again decided not to act on a recommendation from its administration to reinstate Sasha Yates, who has coached the boys’ and girls’ tennis teams since 2018. The boys’ tennis team is not affected because

Gettysburg Goods brings artists together

Timbrel Wallace and sign artist Marty Mummert stand near some of Mummert's signs that are for sale in Gettysburg Goods. (Photo by Alex J. Hayes)

Gettysburg will forever be known as the town that changed the course of the American Civil War, but an emerging group of artisans also desire to grow its reputation as a cultural mecca. A local businesswoman, Timbrel Wallace, is helping them to achieve their dream. Wallace’s new store, Gettysburg Goods, solely features items made by

Gettysburg Presbyterian Church says goodbye to Rev. Lou, Nyiri family

The Rev. Lou Nyiri leads a group of children through Gettysburg Presbyterian Church as they tell the congregation "God loves you."

The Rev. Lou Nyiri and his wife, Candace, arrived in Gettysburg weeks after earning their Master of Divinity degrees from the Pittsburgh Theological Seminary in 1996. For 27 years they have been fixtures in the Gettysburg community, especially at Lou’s work, Gettysburg Presbyterian Church. Friends packed the church’s worship area on Sunday, July 9, to

Fairfield school district approves tax hike

Fairfield Area School District logo

Fairfield Area School District property owners will incur a 4 percent tax increase this year. The school board unanimously voted 8-0 to approve the 2023-24 budget. Board member Kelly Christiano was absent. The plan includes $21.2 million in revenue and $22.9 million in expenditures. During May’s workshop, Business Manager Tim A. Stanton told the board

Rotary celebrates a successful year

Rotary Club of Gettysburg officers for the 2023-24 Rotary year.

The Rotary Club of Gettysburg celebrated another year of service to the community during its annual picnic Monday, June 26, at the Lake Heritage Community Center. Rotary is an international service organization with more than 46,000 clubs across the globe. The Gettysburg club, founded in 1920, has more than 70 members.  President David Kushner told

Ukrainian native connects homeland to Gettysburg

Natalie Raymond, right, packs items collected for Ukraine aid.

Boxes full of clothes, blankets, sheets, scarves, and gloves fill Natalie Raymond’s garage in Cumberland Township. The items are also filling her heart. About a year after the Ukraine native’s mother died in a Polish nursing home, Raymond channels her grief into energy to aid her homeland. When Russia invaded Ukraine on Feb. 24, 2022,

Fairfield football program’s future concerns parents

Fairfield Area School District logo

The future of the Fairfield football program was in the spotlight during June’s board of education study session. Several program supporters told the board that the district’s new coach, Jake Johnson, had announced at a meeting the night before the board meeting that he would recommend the district end the program.  The district hired Johnson

Former Gettysburg pastor marks Golden Jubilee as Catholic priest

Father Bernardo Pistone processes into the Mass celebrating his Golden Jubilee as a priest.

Father Bernardo Pistone loved the people of Saint Francis Xavier Gettysburg when he served as the parish’s pastor. Almost a decade has passed since the Italian native moved from here, but several of his former parishioners traveled to Lancaster on Sunday, June 11 to return the love. Saint Mary’s Catholic Church, where Pistone now resides,

Fairfield commencement highlights students’ plans

Fairfield Area High School graduation

The uniqueness of attending Adams County’s smallest public secondary school was on full display during the Fairfield Area High School graduation ceremony on Wednesday.  Every commencement is about the future. Most have speeches from the valedictorian, salutatorian, and high school principal.  Fairfield’s followed suit.  It also ended with the reading of names and graduates moving

Beer fest, trail run to benefit preservation

Mark Clowney and his son run the Gettysburg Brew Fest and Trail 5K's course.

A brew fest and trail run scheduled will benefit the preservation of a farm that served as a staging area and headquarters for Confederate Major General Edward “Allegheny” Johnson’s preparation and attack of the Union right flank on Culp’s Hill. The 2023 Gettysburg Brewfest & Trail 5K is scheduled for Aug. 19, 2023 at the

Heart attack victim thanks Adams Electric life savers

Adams Electric Director Thomas J. Knaub stands with the life savers who came to his aid during a March heart attack.

Adams Electric’s Member Meeting on March 21 started off as a fun affair. Hundreds of people packed into the Wyndham, Gettysburg ballroom and heard updates about their rural electric cooperative.  Director Thomas J. Knaub greeted many friends that evening, much like he had at many other member meetings since first taking office in 1999. Towards

United Way appreciates many volunteers

Megan Cellucci received the United Way Award for volunteerism.

 The United Way of Adams County celebrated the community’s many volunteers during its annual With Heart in Hand Awards Ceremony on April 24 at Gettysburg College. “It’s awe-inspiring to see the extent and breadth of volunteerism in Adams County and the amount of good that is done in our community,” Mike Jackman, United Way board

Savorhood opens on Baltimore Pike

Customers enjoy Savorhood during the business's opening night on April 26.

Gettysburg’s first-ever food hall, Savorhood, opened its doors to the public April 28. Located at 985 Baltimore Pike, SavorHood is home to 11 Eateries and a brewery. The food hall offers an array of options including barbecue, pizza, Mexican, wings, and seafood. “We are so excited to bring this new dining concept to Gettysburg,” owner

Fairfield approves new district logo

The Fairfield Area School Board recently approved a new Knights logo.

The Fairfield Area School District Knights logo confusion has been settled. Superintendent Thomas J. Haupt told the district’s board of directors recently that more than a half dozen logos are used to represent the school’s mascot, The Knights. Haupt encouraged the board to choose one logo to ensure uniformity throughout the district.  The board was

McDonald’s owner ends lifelong career under the golden arches

Emmett Patterson is retiring as owner of nine Gettysburg-area McDonald's.

In 1964, as President Lyndon Baines Johnson led the country and war raged in Vietnam, a 16-year-old Emmett Patterson poured his first McDonald’s milkshake as a young crew member in Binghamton, New York. Fifty-nine years later, the owner of nine Gettysburg-area restaurants known for their hamburgers and iconic big arches has sold his stores and

Biglerville councilman seeks county commissioner seat

Rob Smith is seeking the Democratic nomination for Adams County commissioner.

Biglerville Borough Council Member Rob Smith hopes to advance his community service by becoming an Adams County Commissioner. Smith is seeking a Democratic nomination for one of three seats available on the board. Smith is adamant that he is not running against any of the three incumbents – Republicans Randy Phiel and Jim Martin and

Sneak peek into Historical Society’s new home

Adams County Historical Society Executive Director Andrew Dalton conducts a tour of the new facility.

Adams County is best known for apples and the three-day 1863 Civil War battle. Both are essential components of the rural southcentral Pennsylvania county’s history, but its story includes many more chapters. The Adams County Historical Society built a new museum, Gettysburg Beyond the Battle, to share the complete narrative. Beyond the Battle The museum,

Gettysburg Tour Center demolished

The Gettysburg Tour Center is now a pile of rubble.

A building that has stood at Gettysburg’s southern gateway for about 60 years is gone. Demolition crews destroyed the Gettysburg Tour Center store and ticket counter on Baltimore Street Thursday so construction can begin on a new facility. The Gettysburg Tour Center has operated in the same spot since the 1950s. The current building was

Gettysburg High to present ‘Pippin’

gettysburg connection pippin

Gettysburg Area High School thespians are excited for the public to attend its spring musical, “Pippin,” this weekend. As told by a traveling troupe of actors led by the cunning and charming Leading Player (played by Emma Kirk), the show is the story of a young prince (played by Connor Peterman) who is searching for his own

Fairfield looks for new school logo

Fairfield School District

The Fairfield Area School District Knights are experiencing an identity crisis. Superintendent Thomas J. Haupt told the district’s board of directors at its Feb. 13 study session that more than a half dozen logos are used to represent the school’s mascot, The Knights. Haupt encouraged the board to choose one logo to ensure uniformity throughout

Purse auction to aid United Way programs

The United Way of Adams County's Annual Women's Purse Auction is Thursday, March 2.

The United Way of Adams County invites supporters to bid for a good cause at its annual purse auction. The organization’s 16th Annual Women’s Purse Auction returns to an in-person event Thursday, March 2 from 5:30 to 9 p.m. at the Wyndham, Gettysburg. “Run for the Purses” will take on a Kentucky Derby theme so

Kiwanis Club learns about suicide prevention

WellSpan Community Heath Education Coordinator Jayne Miller recently spoke to the Kiwanis Club about suicide prevention.

Everyone has the power to prevent suicide, WellSpan Community Heath Education Coordinator Jayne Miller told the Kiwanis Club of Gettysburg Adams County Monday, Feb. 13. Sixty percent of people know someone who died by suicide, Miller said, and 20 percent will lose a family member by suicide. WellSpan provides several training sessions to help people

Burns highlights nation’s lows during festival

Filmmaker Ken Burns discusses his work with fellow filmmaker, Gettysburg native and festival director Jake Borritt during the Ken Burns Film Festival at The Majestic Theater Saturday., Feb. 11.

History is a tragedy, not a melodrama, a packed house at Gettysburg’s Majestic Theater learned Saturday morning at The Ken Burns Film Festival. “People are complicated,” Burns said during his first-ever film festival.  Burns discussed his work with fellow filmmaker, Gettysburg native and festival director Jake Borritt after a thematic clip reel titled “A Nation

Tour center to be demoed in February

Pictured is an artist's rendering of the new Gettysburg Tour Center building, which is expected to be completed in 2024.

Gettysburg will have a new tour center in 2024. Demolition crews will destroy Gettysburg Tour Center’s store and ticket counter on Baltimore Street in February so construction can begin on a new facility, Felty Investments Owner Max Felty said Friday. The Gettysburg Tour Center has operated in the same spot since the 1950s. The current

Fairfield school board discusses tax resolution, courses, CPR

Fairfield School District

The Fairfield Area School District Board of Directors will not raise taxes more than 4.8 percent this year. At its meeting on Monday, the board unanimously agreed not to seek approval from voters or the Pennsylvania Department of Education to increase the levy more than the state-approved index. Monday’s action does not guarantee the board

HAPBI honors Jolin’s dedication

Healthy Adams Bicycle Pedestrian Inc. Board Member Eric Meyer, right, honors outgoing board member Tom Jolin for his work on the Gettysburg Inner Loop.

Tom Jolin advocates for the Gettysburg Inner Loop with patience, kindness and a smile. If you have spoken to Jolin in the last 18 years, he undoubtedly mentioned the project. The loop is a bicycle and pedestrian path that surrounds Gettysburg with signage, bike racks and road markings. Healthy Adams County Bicycle Pedestrian Inc. (HAPBI)

Beauchat seeks re-election to the bench

District Magistrate Mark Beauchat

Mark Beauchat believes he is a better judge than he was when he took office in 2000. A previous law career mixed with life experiences prepared him to know the law but sitting on the bench for 22 years taught him how to talk to anyone who walks into his courtroom, he said recently in

Racists defile historic Cumberland Twp. bridge

IMG 1377

Racist language covers a historic bridge in Cumberland Township. A cyclist riding over the John Eisenhower Bridge on Water Works Road in Cumberland Township recently found several racist words and a Nazi symbol painted on the structure, Patrolman Ryan Eiker wrote in a press release. The graffiti was reported Tuesday, Eiker reported, and discovered last

Local stars to dance for YWCA, Arts Council

DWLS heads e1673014495347

Local stars will shine on the Majestic stage on Fri., Jan. 13 at 7 p.m. during Dancing with the Local Stars presented by WellSpan Health. The annual event is a fundraiser for the YWCA Gettysburg & Adams County and Adams County Arts Council. Local stars have worked with professional choreographers for months to learn two

County controller not seeking re-election

image0

Adams County Controller John Phillips will not seek re-election in 2023. Phillips became the county’s second controller in 2020. The office was first created in 2012 as Adams County became a fifth-class county. Phillips said he and his wife Kim will relocate to New England after his term ends to be closer to their son,

County loses addiction recovery house operator

mercy house 1

Residential addiction treatment services will soon be on hold in Adams County. The Recovery Advocacy Service Empowerment (RASE) Project, which was operating the county-owned Mercy House, will stop providing services at the end of this month, County Manager Steve Nevada said Wednesday. The county is seeking another provider, Nevada said. “We didn’t anticipate them ending

Slideshow: Low temps don’t stop Santa runners

2022 12 14 santa run 9 e1671913118688

Christmas is centered on traditions, so the thermometer reading 6 degrees at 8 a.m. on Dec. 24 could not stop dozens of people from gathering at the Gettysburg Area Middle School for the town’s annual Santa Run. The run, organized by local resident Jen Daniels, is designed to bring people together and help others. Participants

Gettysburg author invites readers into her world

2022 12 13 hannah meeson e1671118951788

Hannah Meeson wants everyone to meet the characters who have lived inside her head for more than 30 years. “I think about them every night before I go to bed, even to this day,” the Gettysburg author recently said. Meeson, who writes under the name Hannah Rae, first started spilling her world onto paper one

Slideshow: Saint Francis Xavier Run at the Rock

2022 12 10 run at the rock 67 e1670704271646

Saint Francis Xavier Roman Catholic Church, Gettysburg, held its 10th annual Noreen Neitz Memorial Run at the Rock on Saturday, Dec. 10. The 5K, 10K and 1-mile run are held in memory of Noreen Neitz, former parish youth minister. Neitz passed away on July 10, 2013 after a long battle with cancer. The Run at

Commissioners Phiel, Martin seek fourth term

2022 12 09 phiel and martin e1670603760299

A large crowd gathered in the Dobbin House’s Abigail Adams Ballroom Friday morning to listen to what has become quadrennial Adams County tradition – Jim Martin and Randy Phiel announcing their candidacies for Adams County commissioner. The pair of Republicans first took office in 2012; if successful, the term that begins in 2024 will be

Fairfield school board changes meeting structure

Fairfield School District

The Fairfield Area School District Board of Directors is changing how it does business. Beginning in January, the board will hold one study session and one business meeting each month. The board previously held two business meetings each month. Board President Jennifer Holz said the change will “allow the board more time to absorb and

Slideshow: Sgt. Mac Foundation preps wreaths for graves

2022 12 02 sgt. mac

More than 100 volunteers gathered in the Giant parking lot Friday morning to assemble 16,000 wreaths which will be placed on veterans’ graves at Quantico National Cemetery on Saturday. The Sgt. Mac Foundation Wreath placement began in 2006 shortly after Gettysburg native Sgt. Eric McColley was killed in February 2006 along with seven fellow Marines