This week in Lancaster County is a reminder of two things we know well: winter can be unforgiving - and community matters.

As dangerously cold temperatures settle in, local organizations are stepping up to protect our most vulnerable neighbors through a Code Blue alert.

At the same time, there are still reasons to gather, move, create, and support one another, from live local music to community fundraisers and hands-on workshops.

Here’s what you need to know today.

As dangerously cold temperatures settle over Central Pennsylvania, Lancaster County has been placed under a Code Blue alert, activating emergency cold-weather protections for residents most vulnerable to the winter conditions.

The alert, in effect through Tuesday and Wednesday, is issued when overnight temperatures or wind chills reach levels that pose a serious risk to health.

During a Code Blue, local shelters, outreach teams, and community organizations mobilize to ensure that individuals experiencing homelessness have access to warm, safe indoor spaces.

Extreme cold can be life-threatening, particularly for people without stable housing, older adults, and those with underlying health conditions.

Exposure to freezing temperatures increases the risk of hypothermia and frostbite, even after short periods outdoors.

Local agencies emphasize that cold weather emergencies are often quiet — but urgent.

During Code Blue conditions, additional shelter beds may be made available, warming centers are activated, and outreach workers actively check known outdoor locations to connect people with help.

Residents are encouraged to look out for neighbors and to call local emergency or non-emergency services if they see someone who appears to be at risk due to the cold.

Community leaders also remind residents that simple actions can make a difference - whether that’s donating winter clothing, supporting local shelters, or sharing information about available resources.

As the cold snap continues, officials stress that no one should have to face freezing temperatures alone, and help is available for those who need it most.

On Friday evening, January 23, New Holland will welcome a down-home sound that’s rooted in Appalachian tradition and local community spirit: Tru-Vintage Bluegrass is bringing their Mid Winter Bluegrass concert to New Covenant Mennonite Church (529 Farmersville Rd) at 7:00 PM with doors opening ahead of time and food available at the event.

Tru-Vintage isn’t just another band passing through - they’re from right here in Lancaster County and have been playing together since 2012, blending tight harmonies with uplifting gospel and bluegrass standards that reflect both their musical influences and their faith. 

Their name hints at what audiences love most about them: a true, vintage sound built on acoustic instruments like banjo, fiddle, mandolin and upright bass, and rich vocal harmonies reminiscent of the Louvin Brothers and Chuck Wagon Gang. 

The lineup brings together local talent like Gary Brubacher on banjo and vocals, Ammon Zimmerman on upright bass and sound, fiddler Ron McVey, guitarist Duane Martin, multi-instrumentalist Kendall Martin, and mandolinist Titus High - a group that’s been steadily building a reputation for heartfelt performances both in the region and beyond. 

Their set lists often blend traditional gospel-bluegrass favorites with original songs, some written by band members themselves - tracks like “I Can Hardly Wait” and “The Pilgrim’s Path” that appear on their recordings. 

Whether you’re a longtime fan of roots music or just curious to experience a lively evening of acoustic harmony, this show promises an authentic Lancaster County musical night out - just right for a chilly January weekend.

See more: truvintagebluegrass.com/events

On Wednesday night, January 21, Garden Spot Fire Rescue in New Holland is trading sirens for country music and inviting the community to step onto the dance floor for an All-Ages Line Dance at its East Main Street station.

The event runs from 6:00 to 9:30 PM, with doors opening at 6:00 and a beginner-friendly lesson from 6:30 to 7:00, making it accessible even for those who’ve never tried line dancing before. After the lesson, the floor opens up for an evening of music, movement, and community connection.

Hosted at Garden Spot Fire Rescue Station 1 (339 E. Main St., New Holland) and led by local instructor Boot Scootin’ Becky, the event is designed to be welcoming for all ages - from kids to grandparents - with an affordable admission of $10 for adults and $5 for kids. Additional donations are encouraged and go directly toward supporting the fire company’s work in the ELANCO area.

Beyond the dancing, the night reflects something Lancaster County does especially well: turning simple, joyful gatherings into meaningful support for local organizations.

Fire companies across the county rely heavily on community fundraisers to help cover equipment, training, and operational costs - and this event offers a fun, low-pressure way to give back while doing something different on a winter weeknight.

Attendees are encouraged to bring their own snacks and water bottles (a refill station is available on site).

For anyone looking to break up the January routine, meet neighbors, or just try something new - this line dance is a reminder that even in the coldest weeks of winter, Lancaster County knows how to keep things moving.

See more on their Facebook event: https://www.facebook.com/events/1786207585327523

Valentine’s season is arriving early in Ephrata, and it’s doing so with glue guns, greenery, and a little bit of whimsy.

On Sunday, January 25, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, locals are invited to slow down and get creative at a Valentine’s Gnome Wreath Workshop, hosted at Old Republic Distillery Tavern in collaboration with Wreaths on Walnut and Javateas Gourmet Café.

The hands-on workshop takes place at 3 Dutchland Ave. and offers a cozy, crafty way to ease into the season of hearts and homemade décor.

Participants will be guided step by step through creating their own Valentine-themed gnome wreath - a playful twist on traditional seasonal décor that’s become increasingly popular in recent years.

All materials are provided, and no prior crafting experience is required. The focus is less on perfection and more on enjoying the process, making something personal, and leaving with a finished wreath ready to hang on a front door or display indoors.

The workshop costs $40 per person, and space is limited, with advance registration encouraged. While the crafting itself is the main event, the setting adds to the appeal.

Old Republic Distillery Tavern will be open throughout the morning offering brunch options and cocktails, while Javateas Gourmet Café will be serving coffee and food, making it easy for attendees to turn the workshop into a relaxed Sunday outing.

Beyond the wreaths, the event reflects a broader winter trend across Lancaster County: creative gatherings that bring people together during the quieter months of the year.

January and February often lend themselves to these smaller, more intimate experiences - opportunities to learn something new, support local businesses, and enjoy a few hours of connection before the busyness of spring returns.

For those looking for a unique Valentine’s decoration, a thoughtful handmade gift, or simply a reason to get out of the house on a winter weekend, the Valentine’s Gnome Wreath Workshop offers a warm, low-pressure way to do just that - one ribbon, bow, and gnome beard at a time.

Click here to register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/valentines-gnome-wreath-workshop-tickets-1980391634690