After an unsuccessful 1776 siege of Charleston, S.C., and an American victory at Moore’s Creek Bridge, N.C., the British largely left the southern colonies alone for several years as they concentrated their actions in the northern colonies. This does not mean that things were peaceful in the South. The civil war that took place throughout
Gettysburg Area School District’s Board of Directors, in a split vote, raised taxes for the 2026-27 school year by 3.5%. Business Manager Belinda Wallen said the average taxpayer will incur a $112.35 increase in their annual bill, based on an assessed value of $279,555. The district will allocate 2.5% of the increase to its general
Nicholas Jacobs, Colby College; Institute for Humane Studies Since 2016, when Donald Trump shattered the Democrats’ blue wall by winning working-class voters across the Midwest, a cottage industry has sprung up on the left dedicated to answering a single question: How can Democrats win back the working class? The answers come in different forms. Sometimes
June 1-13 – A Night with Janis Joplin @ Totem Pole Playhouse www.totempoleplayhouse.org Totem Pole is proud to present the regional premiere of this Broadway powerhouse sensation. This thrilling theatrical concert traces Janis Joplin’s musical journey – from her Texas roots to her meteoric rise in the 1960’s rock scene – while honoring the blues
The Conewago Valley School District celebrated the graduation of the class of 2026 on Wednesday evening at the Colonial Stadium. Longtime teacher Dr. David Bowman, the faculty speaker, reflected on the ways students had developed their individual voices over their lives, supported by friends, family and their school faculty and staff. “Remember, your voice isn’t
Nestled in the green hills of Caledonia State Park, Totem Pole Playhouse’s doors opened for the summer Friday evening to a wild and wonderful ride to the1960s when a trailblazing young woman crashed the male-dominated rock scene. “A Night With Janis Joplin” — the autobiographical show (written and created by Randy Johnson) which appeared on
Along with the long-since abandoned beliefs in “judicial restraint” (Republicans now applaud the most radically activist Supreme Court in the nation’s history) and “fiscal restraint” (Eisenhower was the last Republican president who EVER experienced an annual deficit smaller than the one he inherited), let’s add “federal over-reach” to the discarded set of once-core conservative beliefs.
Members of the Biglerville High School Class of 2026 were celebrated May 27 during commencement exercises that blended reflection, gratitude, humor, and advice for the future. The ceremony honored 122 graduates as they completed their high school careers and prepared to pursue college, careers, military service, and other opportunities. School officials noted that 53 percent
Gettysburg Area High School celebrated the graduation of its 140th graduating class Wednesday evening at Warrior Stadium, where students, families, faculty, and community members gathered to honor the Class of 2026 and reflect on a journey shaped by resilience, change, and perseverance. Student speakers repeatedly returned to the challenges their class faced after the COVID-19
The Gettysburg Brass Band Festival is again pleased to welcome the All-Star Brass and Percussion of Columbus, Ohio. Dr. Eric Aho, Director of Bands and Orchestra at Independence High School, founded the group in 1986. Students involved in the band must receive a nomination and successfully complete an audition process. Young musicians from over 40
Dear Editor, The Emmitsburg Gettysburg Ukraine Support Coalition thanks the area residents who helped make the coalition’s first fundraiser a huge success. The event, held May 15 at Gettysburg Rec Park, raised close to $3,000 to benefit war-ravaged Ukraine. We thank the 60 residents of Emmitsburg and Gettysburg who attended and the volunteers who helped
What’s so special about the Battle of the Bulge? Well, much as it pains a Gettysburg resident to admit this, it’s the largest and most consequential battle ever fought by the U.S. Army. But, more, it was the ultimate soldier’s battle. There were plenty of heroics and soldier decision-making on Omaha Beach as well, but
The Adams County Arts Council invites participants for the seventh production/exhibition of The PEOPLE Project. Artists, storytellers, and musicians are invited to participate in this event and exhibit. The theme for The PEOPLE Project 2026 is “Generations & Crossroads,” and will include a performance event in the Majestic Theater’s Cinema One on Thursday, October 15
Gettysburg residents, the Gettysburg Police Department has received reports of a black bear sighted this morning in the Hanover Street area of the Borough. While black bears are generally shy and tend to avoid humans, we want everyone to stay vigilant and take proper precautions. Safety Tips & Precautions: • Do not approach the bear
Some members of Gettysburg Borough Council and others in the local government have encouraged residents to believe information from borough government and its partners instead of published articles by local residents relative to the Gettysburg Station project and the Rezoning effort. One apparent “partner” is the developer of the Gettysburg Station project, Mr. Harrison. His
Pennsylvania farmers affected by a devastating April freeze will now have access to federal disaster assistance after the U.S. Department of Agriculture formally designated 17 counties as disaster areas. U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins signed the declaration yesterday during a visit to the state, citing significant crop damage caused by below-freezing temperatures that struck between
Community members are invited to attend “Healthcare Affordability in Adams County,” a public forum focused on the rising cost of healthcare, access to care in rural communities for seniors and others, and the impact of recent changes to Medicaid, Medicare, Pennie, and the Affordable Care Act on local residents. The event will take place at
Young entrepreneurs ages 7 to 17 are invited to showcase their businesses at the 70th Annual Market on the Square in New Oxford on Saturday, June 20, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. The New Oxford Area Chamber of Commerce is seeking youth vendors for the annual event, which brings shoppers to New Oxford Square
Gettysburg, PA – Mission of Mercy is proud to announce a new collaboration to offer free dental care for veterans through monthly dental clinics. This initiative is dedicated to serving veterans who do not have access to dental care by providing free high-quality, compassionate treatment. Starting June 2026, Mission of Mercy’s state-of-the-art, three-chair mobile dental
The colonies immediately recognized the importance of naval warfare. Although the 13 colonies had no real naval force, they did have a shipbuilding industry, many merchant vessels that were engaged in domestic and foreign trade, and many captains and sailors who were familiar with the open sea and with warfare. In fact, the colonies did
Memorial Day ceremony at Lincoln Cemetery Gettysburg’s Memorial Day observances kicked off on Sunday with a day-before Memorial Day ceremony at Lincoln Cemetery. Jean Howard Green, President of the Lincoln Cemetery Preservation Association, welcomed the visitors and said she was proud to continue the long tradition of Memorial Day events on the Sunday preceding. She
Christopher Justin Einolf, Northern Illinois University Social scientists and commentators have for years been expressing concerns about what they call the “authoritarian playbook.” To be clear, no such book exists. But would-be and actual dictators do tend to follow a common set of strategies to consolidate power. Since the 2000s, populist leaders from Russia to
The Upper Adams School Board spent much of its May 19 meeting focused on district finances, staffing changes, and concerns from community members about employee morale and contract negotiations. Two residents used public comment to voice concern about staff retention and district leadership. One presenter expressed disappointment over the resignation of Director of Student Services
@Home in Adams County used an online coalition meeting on “destigmatizing and demystifying housing” this week to highlight how affordability, stigma, public policy, incarceration, and limited awareness of available resources can deepen housing insecurity the county. The meeting brought together housing advocates, nonprofit leaders, and community members to examine barriers that can prevent residents from
The Majestic Theater will be featuring the award-winning documentary, “Steal this Story, Please!” for a one week run, starting Friday. The documentary, by Oscar-nominated filmmakers Carl Deal and Tia Lessin, profiles the life and career of journalist Amy Goodman. Goodman, described as “the warm, wise-cracking granddaughter of an Orthodox rabbi – raised in a tradition
Memorial Day weekend in Gettysburg and Adams County will offer residents and visitors a mix of remembrance ceremonies, patriotic music, historic tours, and community celebration. The weekend begins Saturday, May 23, with the 2nd annual SummerFest at Gettysburg Rec Park, where live music, food vendors, and family activities will kick off the holiday weekend beginning
By Laurie Gelb Recently, while dining with family in Gettysburg, I saw a poster advertising the Loomis Circus coming to nearby Cumberland Township. What troubled me most was that this traveling circus promotes acts featuring tigers and an elephant. My concerns about the use of wild animals in entertainment deepened after a volunteer visit to
As communities across Adams County prepare for Memorial Day parades, ceremonies, and gatherings, local veterans advocate Stan Clark hopes residents will take time to remember the true purpose behind the national holiday. Clark, Director of Veterans Affairs for the Adams County Office of Veterans Affairs, explained that “Memorial Day is much more than the unofficial
The Gettysburg Area School District tax increase is down to three options. The board decided on Monday that it will discuss three options on June 1–2.9%, 3.5%, and 4.12%. All possibilities include a 1% allocation for the future expansion of Adams County Technical Institute (ACTI), with the rest allocated to the general operating fund. The
The Littlestown Area School Board faced public criticism Monday over its proposed 2026-27 budget, while students and parents urged the district to expand athletic opportunities. At the center of the meeting was a proposed budget projecting $44.8 million in spending against $42.16 million in revenue, creating a structural deficit of about $2.64 million. District officials
As President of Main Street Gettysburg, I have the privilege of supporting local initiatives that make a lasting difference in our community’s history, character, and vitality. It is especially meaningful to see how projects impact Gettysburg today, but also how they help shape our community tomorrow. Eagle Scout Projects stand among the most powerful examples
Discussions of allied support in the Revolution tend to focus on the support the new country received from France. And there is no doubt that the French arms and military support were instrumental in the American victory. But focusing on French support, important as it was, tends to obscure the important support received from the
The Lincoln Cemetery Project Association warmly invites the public to attend its annual Memorial Day Program on Sunday, May 24, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at Lincoln Cemetery in Gettysburg. Since the late 1800s, Lincoln Cemetery has honored the Gettysburg community through this longstanding Memorial Day tradition. Established by earlier generations, the annual observance remains a
By Imari Scarbrough The Conewago Valley school board approved bids for the renovation and expansion of New Oxford Elementary School and passed a measure adding girls’ wrestling and recognizing it as a PIAA sport. Renovation of New Oxford and Conewago Township Elementary The board awarded the following contracts: Re-keying buildings: A.G. Mauro, with a cost
Gettysburg Pride’s 10th annual Pride Festival included a ceremony held at the Gettysburg rec park today that connected the LGBTQ+ rights movement to the nation’s 250th anniversary and Gettysburg’s place in American history. The event adopted the theme “Pride 250: A New Birth of Freedom,” drawing on the upcoming 250th anniversary of American independence and
May is National Preservation Month — and every year at its annual dinner, Historic Gettysburg Adams County (HGAC) presents its Barn Preservation and Historic House Preservation Awards to recognize barn and building owners for the restoration and preservation work they have accomplished. This year HGAC’s 19th Annual Barn Preservation Award goes to the Double B
The Gettysburg Area School District Board of Directors took a deep dive into their 2026-27 budget options during their May 4 meeting. This exercise has dominated the past several meetings, with the most recent session lasting almost three hours. While no decisions were made, no one disagreed when board members and staff expressed the need
In a public ceremony last night, Gettysburg’s Interfaith Center for Peace and Justice (ICPJ) awarded its annual, prestigious Peacemaker Awards to “celebrate leaders in peace, service and community”. ICPJ President Darren Glass presented a Lifetime of Peacemaking Award to Vida Charter School, represented by Dr. Christine Miller, Executive Director, who has led the school for
At its May meeting, the Rotary Club of Gettysburg welcomed Club member Ben Hansford, Development Director for Shining Stars Therapeutic Riding Program, and Dan Brannen, Executive Director of Strawberry Hill. Club President Chuck Elder had the pleasure of awarding each organization a grant in accordance with its legacy scholarship endowment. Shining Stars plans to use
A long-standing local tradition will continue this year to honor veterans in the annual Memorial Day observance at Mt. Tabor in Gardners. The Memorial Day Service and Parade is scheduled for Friday, May 22 at 6:00 p.m., at the Mt. Tabor Cemetery Association located at 1345 Mt. Tabor Road. The parade will be held at
Alliance With France. On February 6, 1778, following the shocking surrender of General John Burgoyne’s English army at Saratoga, an American diplomatic team led by Ben Franklin signed a treaty of alliance with France. French King Louis XVI had no love for the American cause. But he had been itching for payback from England since
Healthy Adams County (HAC) will be partnering with local agencies to host Mental Wellness Day at the Adams County Farmers Market on Saturday May 16 from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm at the Gettysburg Rec Park. This family friendly event aligns with Mental Health Awareness Month and is intended to raise awareness about critical mental
Robert I. Harris, Georgia Institute of Technology With gasoline prices still high – averaging over US$4.50 a gallon in mid-May 2026 – President Donald Trump said he wanted Congress to suspend the federal gas tax, which is 18.4 cents a gallon for gasoline and 24.3 cents a gallon for diesel. A bill has been introduced
Each May, communities across the country celebrate Older Americans Month, led nationally by the Administration for Community Living (ACL). This annual observance recognizes the contributions of older adults, highlights important aging-related trends, and reaffirms our shared commitment to supporting older Americans so they can live with dignity, independence, and purpose. The 2026 theme, Champion Your
Gettysburg’s new police chief, Dave Snyder, is only a few weeks into the job, but he already has a clear sense of both the opportunities and the pressures that come with policing one of the country’s most visited small towns. Snyder, who previously served in Hampstead, Md., and earlier in Lower Merion Township near Philadelphia,
Area residents in Emmitsburg and Gettysburg are rallying to raise funds for immediate needs in war-ravaged Ukraine. Cathy Bodin, who coordinates Emmitsburg’s Sister City program with the city of Lutsk, Ukraine, said interest in assisting Ukraine continues to widen. “We are holding a Party in the Park for Ukraine on Friday, May 15,” she said,
A 160-acre grassland restoration project will begin May 9, 2026, in areas surrounding the Pennsylvania Monument and the Eternal Light Peace Memorial of the Gettysburg National Military Park. As part of the Eastern Grasslands Initiative, this project will help preserve the battlefield’s historic landscape and enhance natural resources by replacing non-native grasses and woody plants
The Upper Adams School District proudly carried on a long-standing tradition as students in fourth, fifth, and sixth grades gathered for the 69th annual Color Day today at the Upper Adams Intermediate School in Arendtsville. This year’s cultural focus was Native Americans. The spirited outdoor day kicked off at 9:30 a.m. with students marching on
The Gettysburg Vegetarian Dinner Club welcomed community members to an evening of tasty vegetarian food and meaningful conversation during a free, four-course dinner. It was held on May 7, 2026 at 6:00 p.m., at the Gettysburg Seventh-day Adventist Church located at 1495 Biglerville Road, Gettysburg. Preregistered guests gathered at 6:00 p.m. to enjoy a thoughtfully
Employees, Adams county officials, and members of the community gathered today to celebrate the official opening of the ACE Hardware Garden Center. The greenhouse, located at 615 York St. is stocked with annuals, shrubs, trees, hanging baskets, landscaping supplies and seasonal plants for Mother’s Day, as well as spring and summer planting. Greenhouse manager Kim Mayers
The 2nd Annual Memorial Day weekend SummerFest will return to the Gettysburg Rec Park on Saturday, May 23, featuring a full afternoon and evening of live music, food and alcohol vendors, games of chance, and a family-friendly vibe. The event will also include a formal rededication ceremony for the rec park amphitheater, highlighting recent upgrades
After fighting well but losing at Brandywine in September 1777 and again at Germantown in October, George Washington faced the inevitable that the British army would spend the winter in comfort in Philadelphia and that his troops would spend another winter in makeshift quarters. On December 19, 1777, he established a winter camp at Valley
York County resident Harry Miller had the honor of representing all American WWII veterans to greet King Charles during his recent visit to Arlington Cemetery. Harry, 98, chatted briefly with the King at the cemetery’s Canadian Cross. “He was very nice,” said Harry. “He asked if I really enlisted at age 15 and when I
The 81st anniversary of the end of the war in Europe is/was May 8. For the American GI, it was a major goal accomplished. The last month had involved intermittent combat, discovering concentration camps, miles driving in trucks, the surrender of many German soldiers, and the growing desire “not to be the last GI to
This year a local institution, a couple, and two individuals will receive the International Council for Peace & Justice (ICJP) 2026 Peacemaker Awards. The ceremony will be held on Monday, May 11, at 7 p.m., in Valentine Hall at United Lutheran Seminary. The ICPJ board chose to give two Lifetime of Peacemaking Awards this year:
Beneath the second star to the right and straight on ‘til curtain call, the amazing kids at Gettysburg Community Theatre are rocking the stage in a joyful evening of musical theater based on Scottish playwright and novelist J. M. Barrie’s beloved story about a flying boy who refuses to grow up. His play “Peter Pan”
The Gettysburg Juneteenth Committee is excited to announce the schedule of events for this year’s Juneteenth Weekend celebration scheduled for June 19-20 at various locations throughout the borough. The celebration of culture, creativity, and connection kicks off on Friday, June 19, at Gettysburg Rec Park and Lincoln Cemetery, and continues Saturday, June 20, with events
The Adams County Farmers Market is maintaining a steady vendor base and a full slate of community events this season, even as a damaging spring freeze threatens to disrupt local fruit production, Market Manager Reza Djalal said in a recent interview. Djalal described the market as stable but evolving, with “a little bit of ebb
2026 marks the 250th anniversary of America! Various states and countries across the nation are celebrating this milestone birthday. Residents across Upper Adams have united to organize an event honoring this historic day. Residents are invited to come together this summer for a patriotic celebration marking America’s 250th anniversary. The landmark celebration, hosted collaboratively by
A late-April cold snap has created significant uncertainty for the 2026 fruit season, and could mark one of the most damaging weather events in the history of of the county, said Biglerville’s Hollabaugh Bros. Farmers Market Business and Market Manager Ellie Hollabaugh Vranich. Hollabaugh said freezing nights in April struck at especially vulnerable moments—after unusually
Jasmine Farrier, University of Louisville May 1, 2026, marks the 60th day of Operation Epic Fury in Iran – a symbolically significant date designating when a president who has mounted unilateral military operations must receive Congressional approval or wind it down. However, the complex history of the War Powers Resolution clock demonstrates it is a
Hundreds of attendees attended a sold-out “Empty Bowl” event last night, supporting The Gleaning Project of South Central PA. Music was provided by Chuck Darwin & The Knuckledraggers. Attendees received a handmade bowl, soup, bread, beverage, and dessert – all generously donated by local businesses and artists.
Upper Adams School District April 21st meeting was a debacle, creating unsafe and unwelcoming conditions amidst teacher negotiations. The meeting was held in the UASD board room, which was inadequate space for the Board members and more than 50 teachers that attended. After teaching classes all day, many of the teachers had to stand, and were
Gettysburg Tours, Inc. proudly recognizes Ron Koontz for reaching an extraordinary milestone: 50 years of dedicated service to the organization. Since joining Gettysburg Tours, Inc. in 1976, Ron has played a vital role in the company’s growth and success. Over five decades, he has contributed to lifelong memories for thousands of visitors to the Gettysburg
While the Cumberland Township administrative building on Fairfield Road is undergoing renovation and expansion, the Board of Supervisors is working on a project to incorporate the colorful history of the township into the newly renovated building. The project is intended to showcase the citizens and important memories of the township’s history and times that have
After several years of planning, construction, and the temporary relocation of its offices, the Cumberland Township administration officially returned home this week and commenced operations in its newly renovated municipal building located at the 1370 Fairfield Road location. The Board of Supervisors held their first monthly BOS meeting on Tuesday in their newly remodeled meeting room,
More than 200 students, donors, and community leaders gathered early this morning for the Adams County Community Foundation’s annual scholarship breakfast, where nearly $200,000 in scholarships were awarded to local students. Foundation President and CEO Ralph Serpe welcomed attendees, noting the unique nature of the event, which brings scholarship recipients face-to-face with the donors who
The Gettysburg Borough Council used its Monday work session to advance changes to rental housing rules, examine pedestrian safety concerns near Vida Charter School, continue a rewrite of the historic district ordinance, and receive an update on the Gettysburg Welcome Center. No formal votes were taken. Council also confirmed executive sessions were held following the
The Gettysburg Area Recreational Authority (GARA) board of directors reported solid financial footing and a slate of improvements and events as it prepares for a busy summer season, including a major July 4 celebration expected to draw thousands from around the east coast. Through March, the board reported year-to-date income of $86,213 and expenses of
We’re still a little stunned by how April 17th turned out. We went into the night with a big goal:we needed to raise money to keep this mission moving, but we also wanted to see peopleconnecting with neighbors and enjoying the space we’ve built together. You all delivered on bothcounts and then some. Between the
Adams County 4-H Teen Senate members were invited to attend the Adams County FarmBureau’s spring meeting on Thursday, March 26, at The Barn Resort. Eight 4-H membersattended where they heard from guest speakers PA state representatives Catherine Wallenand Dan Moul, and staff from Plainville Farms. Each speaker shared the importance ofagriculture and the roles they
Contents Bermudian Springs weighs facilities needs, budget outlook The Bermudian Springs School District board on April 21 reviewed early findings from a facilities study and continued discussions on the 2026–27 budget, both pointing to stable enrollment but ongoing financial challenges. An architect from Crabtree, Rohrbaugh & Associates presented the start of a districtwide feasibility study
By Carolyn George Do you know the word “agora”? I always forget whether it’s Latin or Greek, but at the 2026 opening day of the Adams County Farmers market yesterday morning, my neighbor Susie, already clutching a cheerful bouquet at 9am, assured me it’s Greek. “Agora” means “marketplace.” So, “agora” is a public space where
After Washington’s victories at Trenton and Princeton at the end of 1776, the British abandoned all their outposts in southern New Jersey. This meant thy started the 1777 campaigning season precisely where they had been the previous autumn. Having failed to take Philadelphia the previous year by marching through New Jersey, British commander Sir William
Voters in Pennsylvania’s 91st Legislative District will have two opportunities on April 29 to hear directly from candidates seeking their party nominations in the upcoming primary election. Gettysburg Rising will host a Democratic candidate forum from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Gettysburg YMCA, 909 Fairfield Rd. Democratic candidates Tony Nunez-Guzman, Kathleen Pratt, and
Area students recently got an up-close look at the natural world through a series of school visits, book donations, and hands-on programs sponsored by the South Mountain Audubon Association. Nature books were donated to Biglerville Elementary School and Alloway Creek Elementary School in Littlestown, helping expand classroom resources and encourage environmental learning. In Gettysburg, Bright
Gettysburg’s spring brush collection will take place Monday, May 18th- Friday, May 22nd, 2026. Public Works will go around town twice that week picking up brush only. Please do not mix leaves and grass clippings with brush, these items can be dropped off at the Public Works building at 457 East Middle Street. Place brush along the
This week Biglerville High School sophomore American History students recently participated in a National Park Service program that involved each student researching and sharing information about a soldier who was killed on D-Day and buried in the Gettysburg National Cemetery. Students visited the Eisenhower National Historic Site and the cemetery, guided by park ranger Dan
Shawn Datchuk, University of Iowa Recently, I worked with a group of elementary teachers in Iowa to select new reading textbooks and software. They wanted new materials to improve their district’s stagnant reading scores. After several days of reviewing materials from a state-approved list, one of the teachers asked me, “Will any of these help
Community members, local property owners, and stakeholders are invited to attend the Final Public Engagement Event for the Boyds School Road Pathway on Tuesday, April 28. This meeting is the final opportunity for the public to review and discuss the proposed pathway design before the project moves forward. The evening will begin with a property
Gettysburg Combined Area Resources for Emergency Shelter (CARES) hosted a volunteer dinner at the Youth House in Gettysburg yesterday for volunteers, staff, and board members. It connected dedicated volunteers for an evening of appreciation and camaraderie. The gathering served both as a heartfelt thank-you for their ongoing commitment to supporting individuals experiencing homelessness and as
Gettysburg native Christopher Mathias returned home Thursday evening to discuss his new book, To Catch a Fascist: The Fight to Expose the Radical Right, which offers a firsthand look at the extremist movements he has covered as a journalist and challenges popular misconceptions about both fascism and antifa. Speaking at Gettysburg College, Mathias drew on
Gettysburg Area School District’s Board of Directors continued their deep dive into the 2026-27 budget on Monday, with signs pointing towards a tax increase. “If you would ask me, I would make the recommendation no lower than 3.5%,” Business Manager Belinda Wallen said. Pennsylvania law dictates the district cannot raise taxes more than 4.2%. The
View the full meeting here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w-WWIt4ehAA The Gettysburg Planning Commission met Monday at Council Chambers to review ongoing projects, hear public comments, and discuss a zoning exception request for 412 York Street. The meeting opened with approval of the agenda and March 16, 2026, meeting minutes. Stratton Street / Gettysburg Station Project discussion Public comment
The case could still be appealed up to the state Supreme Court. by Katie Meyer of Spotlight PA The exterior to the Pennsylvania Judicial Center. Kent M. Wilhelm / Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan, and nonprofit newsroom producing investigative and public-service journalism that holds power to account and drives positive change in Pennsylvania. Sign
The Adams County sextet Honey on the Rocks played to two sold-out houses at the Gettysburg Community Theatre Saturday, delivering a polished, high-energy showcase of local musicianship at its finest. Rooted in R&B, pop, and soul covers, the band draws from an artfully-curated setlist of standout classics ranging from the B52s to Valerie June. Included
The Veterans Advocate Network (VAN) is a collaborative group dedicated to serving veterans and military-affiliated individuals and families in Adams County. It has grown into a vital resource since its launch in October 2022. The idea for VAN emerged when Elizabeth Cooper, formerly a Veterans Representative with Adams/Franklin County CareerLink and now with the Pennsylvania
The second annual Gettysburg Act Local Fair, organized by Gettysburg Rising, drew a crowd to Lincoln Square this afternoon, bringing together a wide range of local nonprofits and grassroots groups for a two-hour community showcase. Held from noon to 2 p.m., the event gave residents an opportunity to meet directly with organizations working across Adams
Thirty years ago, in the basement of the old Dutch Pantry restaurant on Buford Avenue, a small group of volunteers sat around a table, collating and stapling together a vision. It was the first Community Health Assessment—a stack of papers that would eventually become the roadmap for a healthier, more connected Adams County and the
With the evening show already sold out, only 19 tickets remain for Saturday’s 2 p.m. performance by Honey on the Rocks at the Gettysburg Community Theatre — and organizers are urging fans to act quickly. The local band, formed about two years ago by Bevin Durant Fidler and Josh Fidler has built a strong following
As temperatures rise across Adams County, tick activity is increasing — and with it, the risk of Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses. Health officials say spring marks the beginning of the most active period for nymph-stage deer ticks, which are responsible for many human infections because of their extremely small size, often no larger
Infrastructure updates, new leadership, and preparations for a major November event highlighted the Gettysburg Borough Council meeting Monday night. Council members received updates across multiple departments, including public works, engineering, and finance, while also approving several motions related to borough projects and operations. Public Works Director Robert Harbaugh announced that the borough’s annual spring brush
Decision day is approaching for the Gettysburg Area School District Board of Directors. The elected body must decide next month whether to propose raising taxes for the 2026-27 budget year. Business Manager Belinda Wallen told the board last week that administrators recommend a 3.5% tax increase to help close the $1.8 million deficit. Pennsylvania law
Members of the Gettysburg Connection staff gathered yesterday for a working and social event in Gettysburg. In addition to sharing stories and updating each other on our work, we had a chance to view the Spring 2026 edition of the Gettysburg Connection Magazine, hot off the press. The visitor-centered magazine, available for free at almost
Nearly 100 people attended a program on Mary Jemison’s 1758 abduction by Native Americans during the French and Indian War Tuesday evening at the Adams County Historical Society, underscoring the continued interest in her story. Presenter Debra McCauslin said she was encouraged by the turnout and audience response. “I was delighted to share information about
Fairfield Area School District officials said they plan to keep early elementary class sizes small while preparing for rising costs, growing student needs, and long-term infrastructure upgrades during a wide-ranging “state of the district” presentation Monday night. The April 13 study session, which featured updates from administrators across the district, focused on academics, staffing, facilities,
Waldo’s and Company will host “A Night of Creativity” on Friday, April 17, from 5 to 8 p.m., offering an evening of art, music, and community connection while raising funds to support its mission. The event will feature mocktails sponsored by Sign of the Buck, hors d’oeuvres, and desserts as guests explore the organization’s gallery
In the 1990s, Gettysburg experienced a powerful resurgence that captured America’s attention. A new generation discovered the town and the battlefield, through two cultural forces that brought Civil War history back into the national conversation: Ken Burns’ landmark PBS documentary The Civil War and the film Gettysburg, directed by Ron Maxwell. Together, these projects reshaped
Dear Members of the Gettysburg Community: Our community is suffering. We condemn the alleged acts of abuse by the former mayor. While he served in several positions of influence, including as an elected official, he violated our trust. He is not and should not be considered representative of our community. All people should be held
Community members and families in the Upper Adams School District were invited to explore the growing role of artificial intelligence in education during a special event held yesterday at Biglerville High School. Titled “AI in Education: The Future of Learning,” the program gave attendees a clearer understanding of how AI is shaping classrooms and the