This episode brings a unique twist as we delve into the often-overlooked realm of bedding essentials — sheets. While Gardner's Mattress and More, our sponsor, buzzes with activity on Presidents' Day, we take a quiet moment to explore how the right set of sheets can transform your sleep experience.

Joined by our producer, Chris Stone, we unpack the secrets behind thread counts, material quality, and how choosing the perfect sheets can elevate your overall sleep system, ensuring you wake up happy and refreshed each morning.

Tune in as we guide you through thoughtful considerations that go beyond just the mattress, highlighting the importance of investing in quality sleep accessories for a restful night's sleep. Whether you're a warm or cold sleeper, or perhaps curious about the latest in bedding technology, this episode offers insights to make your next sheet purchase the best one yet. So, prepare to discover a restful sleep awaits you with the right sleep environment and essentials.

In this episode, we’re joined by Jeannette Wehye of THEM Collective (To Heal and Encourage Musically), a musical group based in Central Pennsylvania. Alongside DeJuan Rosado, Jeannette leads the collective in its mission to use music as a transformative tool to heal, inspire, and empower communities, particularly youth. In this conversation, Jeannette shares how THEM Collective works to foster connection and positivity through their unique sound, and how they aim to encourage growth and uplift music lovers everywhere. Tune in to hear about the collective’s powerful journey and the impact they’re making through the healing power of music.

In this episode, we chat with Reji Woods, an actor, director, and producer making his EPAC directorial debut. With a career spanning Broadway, Off-Broadway, national tours, and international stages, Reji has also appeared in TV shows like Orange Is the New Black and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, and films like Tapawingo. He’s the co-founder of Bending Threads Cabaret Company and founder of Reji Woods Productions. Alongside his performing career, Reji teaches voice and acting in Lancaster County and serves as Theatre Director at Ephrata High School. Tune in to hear more about his creative journey and upcoming projects!

Welcome to a new episode of Lancaster Connects! In this week's episode, Ben dives into the fascinating world of sleep accessories, with a special focus on choosing the perfect pillow. Gain insights into how the right pillow can transform your sleep, alleviate pain, and enhance your overall well-being. Ben shares the expertise amassed at Gardner's Mattress and More, guiding you through the maze of choices to identify a pillow that perfectly complements your body and mattress. From understanding different pillow materials like memory foam and latex to discovering the benefits of custom-built pillows and sleep system bundles, this episode is packed with valuable information. Whether you're struggling with neck pain or seeking tips for reducing snoring, tune in to learn how Gardner's guides can empower you to wake up refreshed and happy every day.

In this episode, we sit down with Francisco Cleaves, President of Lancaster Inferno, and Teresa Rook, a former professional soccer player and coach. Francisco shares his journey from growing up in Honduras to leading Lancaster Inferno to multiple championships. With a coaching career spanning high school, college, and professional soccer, he earned UWS East Conference Coach of the Year honors twice.

Teresa reflects on her standout playing career, including her time at James Madison University and her professional stints in the U.S., Sweden, and Iceland. Now a coach with over a decade of experience, Teresa also teaches second grade. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about leadership, soccer, and their shared passion for the game.

In this episode, we chat with Cory Van Brookhoven, a third-generation Lititz historian and President of the Lititz Historical Foundation. Cory has written over 150 articles and four books on the area's history, and since 2013, has led the foundation in preserving Lititz’s rich heritage. The foundation, founded in 1961, maintains two 18th-century buildings and offers a variety of events, including walking tours, ghost tours, and a whiskey & history tour in partnership with a local distillery. Tune in to hear about Cory’s work and the fascinating history of Lititz!

In this episode, we talk with Dr. John R. Gerdy, founder of Music For Everyone (MFE), a Lancaster-based nonprofit that has invested over $6.5 million into local music education and community arts since 2006. Dr. Gerdy, who served as MFE’s Executive Director until 2024, has a diverse background, including roles as Associate Commissioner of the Southeastern Conference and Legislative Assistant at the NCAA. A former All-American basketball player at Davidson College, he’s also a lifelong musician, performing under the name Willie Marble and teaching music to children.

Dr. Gerdy is the author of several books, including The Journey of an Old White Dude in the Age of Black Lives Matter and Lights on Lancaster, both released in 2023. In this conversation, he shares his passion for using music to build community and his experiences in both sports and the arts.

Join us for a special year-end celebration—The Lancaster Connecties Awards Show! Hosts Ben McClure and Producer Chris Stone will recap an incredible year of Lancaster Connects, honoring standout guests who brought tremendous value to the Lancaster community and made the show extra fun. We'll highlight inspiring non-profits, share memorable moments, and even throw in a few surprises! Whether you're a dedicated "watchener" or a new fan, don't miss this fun-filled event as we celebrate 2024 and gear up for more amazing episodes in 2025. Tune in live and be part of the celebration!