December Community News
December Community News
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year to you and your family!
"Your neighbors and friends"
IF YOU NEED HELP DURING THE HOLIDAYS
If you or someone you know needs help this holiday season with food or other needs, please contact
New Hope Ministries, 99 W. Church St., Dillsburg, call 717-432-3053 or nhm-pa.org
PROFESSIONAL COUNSELING AVAILABLE @ HARMONY CHURCH FOR THE HOLIDAYS
If you need help dealing with the stress or loneliness that the holidays bring for many, please contact Reduce Stress and ThriveCounseling Services with Dr. Geraty is available at Harmony Church by appointment. Appointments can be made by email: drshawn@reducestress.life or by calling: 717-516-1199. Financial help is available to those who need it. Please inquire about it when making an appointment.
DILLSBURG SENIOR ACTIVITY CENTER NEEDS YOUR HELP
Many seniors in our area are struggling. The Dillsburg Senior Activity Center at 1 N 2nd St., in Dillsburg helps to service the needs of seniors in our area. They can use your help! They are in need of volunteers to drive for their home delivery meal program. And they are looking for volunteers to help with things like cutting grass and doing some upkeep at the center. If you have the time and are willing to help, please call 717-432-2216 or email at dillsburgseniorcenter@verizon.net for more information.
THURSDAY CHAIR EXERCISE CLASS @ HARMONY CHURCH, 9:30am
Every Thursday morning at Harmony Church, you can attend a chair exercise class beginning at 9:30am. It is free, a great way to exercise without standing and meet new people! It is held in the multipurpose room. There will be no classes on Christmas Day or New Year's Day, but will resume on January 8, 2026
SURFACE BREAKERS SUPPORT/CONNECTION GROUP
If you are looking for a space to connect with other people and talk about the ups and downs of life, this might be the group for you. This group meets each Monday evening from 7:00-8:00pm at Harmony Church. It is not a class. Each week is different. You don't have to talk; you can just attend and listen. You are always welcome to give it a try. If you decide it's not for you, no one will pressure you. The purpose of the group is to help people in our neighborhood find connection and community with others. During the upcoming holiday season, this group will meet only on the following Mondays at 7pm: November 17, December 1 & 15 and January 5, 2026.
TIPS FOR YOU STAYING HEALTHY THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
Drink water
Winter may be a good time for hot cocoa and cider, but always make water your drink of choice. While hot beverages can be great for warmth, remember to keep it balanced with at least 8 cups of water per day. A glass of water with and between each meal can keep you hydrated, healthy and ready to fight off any germs winter may bring.
Stress less
Over-the-top holiday excursions can be stressful, which isn't how you should feel in this joyful season. Focus on your holiday traditions — don't worry about the rest. Make time for friends, family and good cheer, and embrace relaxation when you can.
Sleep enough
Don't neglect the value of sleep. Do all that you can to stick to your typical sleep schedule, even around all the celebrations and traveling. Avoid or limit caffeine, alcohol, daytime napping and large meals before bed. These factors can interfere with a good night's rest.
Dress warmly
Remember headwear that fully covers your ears, wear mittens rather than gloves and pull on well-insulated socks when dressing for the weather. Instead of wearing one big coat, dress in several layers of loose, warm clothing. This will better protect you against wind, snow and rain. If your clothes become wet, change them as soon as possible.
Limit time in the cold
Pay attention to weather forecasts and windchill readings. Dress accordingly, but also watch for signs of frostbite, such as red or pale skin, prickling and numbness. Seek emergency help right away if you experience any signs of hypothermia, including intense shivering, slurred speech, loss of coordination or fatigue. You can avoid these cold-weather hazards if you take measures to protect yourself against the cold, such as packing an emergency supply kit and warm clothing while traveling.
Exercise
Cold air sometimes can discourage you from keeping up with your fitness routines. It's easy to let these habits slide for the season, but remember that regular activity can keep you healthy, both mentally and physically. Choose an indoor exercise if the temperature is below zero or the windchill is extreme. Workout apps or online exercise programs are great tools to get you moving in the comfort of your home. If you prefer to exercise outside, dress appropriately. Too many layers can make you overheat, so choose layers you can easily remove.
Keep the germs away
Three words: Wash your hands. This is one of the best ways to avoid getting sick and spreading common winter illnesses, such as colds. Germs accumulate through nearly everything you do or touch, so wash your hands frequently. Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds, scrubbing all surfaces and rinsing well. Also, get flu and COVID-19 vaccines to avoid being sick during the coldest time of year.
Following these tips can ensure you have a safe, happy and healthy holiday season.
Peter Reisner, MD (Mayo Clinic Health System)
KEEPING YOUR PETS SAFE DURING THE HOLIDAYS
Human foods & holiday treats
Chocolate (especially dark or baking chocolate) contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs and cats.
Xylitol (found in sugar-free gum, candy, baked goods) can cause life-threatening drops in blood sugar.
Grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, nuts, fatty meats, bones, and raw dough all carry dangers like kidney failure, pancreatitis, or GI obstruction.
Tip: Keep human food out of reach. If you want to treat your pet, choose ones made specifically for them and double-check the ingredients.
Decorative hazards & ornaments
Tinsel, ribbons, string, and small decorative items may be irresistible, but swallowing them can lead to dangerous blockages.
Glass or sharp ornaments can break and cause cuts or internal injury.
Electrical cords, lights, and candles also present risks of burns or electrical shock if chewed or knocked over.
Tip: Keep decorations out of reach and secure your tree or displays so curious pets can't pull them down. Skip tinsel or ribbon if your cat loves to chew (it's safer and easier to clean up later!).
Provided by:
Little Paws Animal Clinic
1110 Eichelberger St. Hanover, Pa 17331
717-633-3603
CHRISTMAS @ HARMONY CHURCH
Join us any Sunday in December for our worship service at 10:30am as we celebrate the Christmas season of love, hope, peace and joy in Christ. There is also a time to pray for those who need this weekly.
But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger. Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”
- Luke 2:10-14
