OCC_050124

Library group sets plant sale, barbecue

BY FRANCINE FULTON

Children in search of a Mother’s Day gift and anyone looking for plants to enhance their patios or gardens are invited to attend the annual spring plant sale being presented by the Friends of the Moores Memorial Library on Saturday, May 11, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Lions Community Park, 325 N. Bridge St., Christiana. The event will also feature a chicken barbecue. Plants for sale will include a large assortment of hanging baskets and premade patio containers. “We will have 4-inch pots of germaniums and other flowers that children can buy for Mother’s Day the following day,” said Friends member Kate Valentino, noting that a baseball game is generally taking place in the park during the event. “We have a lot of kids come from the ball field, and they can get something for mom.”

All plants will be on display in the pavilion at the park. In the case of rain, plants will be available in the Lions Community Building at the park. This year, no bedding plants or herbs will be sold.

“We buy (the flowers) wholesale,” Valentino noted. “We will have more container pots this year because we sold out of them last year.”

Chicken barbecue meals will be available beginning at 10 a.m. The cost of a meal includes a halfchicken, a bottle of water and a bag of chips. Randy Yoder will prepare the chickens on-site.

“We do a half-chicken (rather) than chicken legs,” noted Joan Esworthy, Friends president, adding that the barbecue sells out quickly, so attendees are encouraged to arrive early.

Check and cash will be accepted for payment at the flower sale and the barbecue.

All proceeds from both events will benefit the many activities

See Library Friends pg 8

Sadsbury Friends Meeting to host Peace Tea

BY FRANCINE FULTON

Local residents looking for volunteer opportunities in the community are invited to attend a Dawg Days at the Park recruitment event on Saturday, May 11, from 9 a.m. to noon in Minch Park, 111 West St., Parkesburg.

During the event, being presented by the Parkesburg Consortium of Community Leaders, attendees will be able to visit with leaders of local nonprofit organizations to discuss volunteer opportunities and ask questions.

“There are multiple service organizations and committees in Parkesburg,” said Tina O’Connor, who is a member of the consortium as well as the Parkesburg Action Committee (PAC). “Many of those entities need volunteers.”

Organizations that will be represented at the event include PAC, Parkesburg Parks and Recreation Commission, the Parkesburg Free Library and the Parkesburg Lions Club, as well as the Borough of Parkesburg.

BY FRANCINE FULTON

Sadsbury Friends Meeting, a Quaker house of worship that is observing its 300th anniversary this year, is planning a Peace Tea fundraiser on Saturday, May 11, from 2 to 4 p.m. The event, which will offer attendees an assortment of teas and traditional high tea fare, will take place in the downstairs community room at the Meeting, 1089 Simmontown Road, Gap, located one half-mile east of Route 41.

Proceeds from ticket sales will

Organizers include (back, from left) Friends members Joan Esworthy, Toady Kennel, Karen Woods and Karen Gallagher; library director Trish Vandenbosch; and (front) Friends members Ginny Rettew, Kate Valentino and Cindy Logic.

Members of the Sadsbury Friends Meeting are looking forward to hosting a Peace Tea.

Additionally, Humble Hounds Animal Rescue, a foster-based, all-breed, no-kill animal rescue will be on hand with adoptable dogs. Founded by Kaitlyn Fitzpatrick in 2020, Humble Hounds is in need of volunteers willing to care for rescued dogs until their permanent homes can be found.

“We always need foster families,” said Fitzpatrick. “All of our applications to foster or adopt are on our website, or people can email us for more information.” To learn more, visit www.humble hounds.org or www.face book.com/humblehounds animalrescue or email info@ humblehounds.org.

Dogs are welcome at the upcoming event, and a DIY dog photo booth will be available. Karen’s Pet Clips will be on hand to offer nail trimmings for a fee, with a portion of the proceeds being donated to a local charity. Pastries from the Baker’s Basket will be available for purchase.

The consortium, which formed in the spring of 2023, is made up of community service organizations in the area. Its first initiative was a community engagement event held at the Keystone Valley Fire Department last April. Attendees were invited to learn about organizations and businesses in the area, as well as upcoming events. “The consortium is a group of leaders that bring those (volunteer) committees together as one,” O’Connor added.

Individuals may contact O’Connor at experience positivetherapy@gmail .com for more information.

Students become stewards of the Octoraro Watershed

BY FRANCINE FULTON

Students who take the earth and space science class at Octorara JuniorSenior High School now have an opportunity to become Stewards of the Octoraro Watershed as part of a new program developed by science teacher Amanda Kieffer, with help from members of the Octoraro Watershed Association (OWA).

Kieffer said the activity is part of an effort to get students involved in hands-on learning to supplement what is taught in the classroom.

“I taught middle school for 26 years, and I just officially transferred in December to the high school and wanted to do something more than just in the classroom,” said Kieffer. “I had known that the OWA is an active group and (I decided), let’s make (the students) stewards of the watershed and get more involved. I reached out to (the OWA) and said I wanted to create some sort of partnership. It’s a new endeavor for all of us. I was certain (they) were people who will take us under their wing.”

Stewards of the Octoraro Watershed is open to all students in grades 10 to 12 who take the earth and space science class as an elective.

“We are in the infancy and blossoming stages,” said Kieffer. “It’s open to all my classes, about 60 to 70 kids. Right now, we do everything as part of our class. I am looking toward next year as being more robust.”

The first activity of the newly formed group was to take part in the fourth annual OWA Photography Contest. As part of the event, participants were asked to submit photos taken in the watershed area, which includes 208 square miles in southern Chester and Lancaster counties, as well as Cecil County, Md. The contest included four categories for youths and adults: Wildlife, Landscapes, Trailcam and Agriculture. In the past, the contest was digital, but for the past two

years entrants were asked to submit hard copies of framed and matted photos.

“We hosted Chotty Sprenkle (OWA president) and Mary Kay Phillips (OWA director) to come into the classroom as an outreach,” Kieffer explained. “My stu-

dents wanted to participate in the contest, and they sent me their photos. I sent them to the photography teacher, and he printed them and matted them.”

Five students from Octorara placed in the con-

Photos by Elizabeth Novak (left photo) and Abby Fleming (right photo) captured first-place honors in the OWA Photography Contest.

See Watershed pg 7

Submitted by Wanda Smale, webmaster and Facebook editor, Historical Society of Salisbury Township

The first official observance of Memorial Day’s predecessor, Decoration Day, took place on May 30, 1868. That year, 183 cemeteries in 27 states celebrated Decoration Day, and observance grew in the years that followed. By 1890, all the northern states had made it an official state holiday. The southern states began celebrating Decoration Day after World War I, when it changed from honoring Civil War dead to honoring the American dead of all wars.

Memorial Day, as we know it, came about in 1967, when Decoration Day was renamed Memorial Day. In 1968, it was permanently moved from May 30 to the last Monday in May to create a three-day

Memorial Day

weekend. It became an official federal holiday in 1971.

Despite the increasing celebration of the holiday as the beginning of the summer season, there are some informal, as well as formal, rituals still on the books.

on June 6, 1971, in Gap when Route 41 was closed for services taking place at the Gap Town Clock.

In early 2019, the historical society was contacted by Jos Punie, a historian in Belgium, who said, “7 September 2019 would mark 75 years ago that our village Kortessem (Belgium) was liberated from German occupation by American troops. Cpl. Clarence Hershey Wenger was one of two American soldiers killed in the fighting.”

Americans observe Memorial Day by visiting cemeteries and memorials and holding family gatherings. More formal rituals include hanging the American flag at half-staff until noon on Memorial Day, then raising it to the top of the staff. And since 2000, when the U.S. Congress passed legislation, all Americans are encouraged to pause for a National Moment of Remembrance at 3 p.m. local time.

Thousands of parades are held during Memorial Day in large and small cities throughout the United States. Most parades feature marching bands, servicemen, veterans and military vehicles from various wars. One such parade took place

Punie said the town was publishing a book about their village during World War II. He was requesting a photo and short biography of Wenger, who hailed from Salisbuty Township, so “he becomes more than just a name for our fellow villagers and will always be honored and remembered.”

The society sent the following information, and the book was published later that year: Prior to enlisting in the U.S. Army Infantry on Dec. 7, 1942, at just 18 years of age, Clarence was a farmhand, living with his parents and siblings in Salisbury Township, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. Cpl. Wenger, at the time a Technician 5th Grade with the 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Division, was killed in action on Sept. 7, 1944, at Kortessem, Arrondissement Tongeren, Limburg, Belgium. His final resting place is Hershey Mennonite Cemetery. He was 20 years old.”

Let us pause this Memorial Day to honor and remember all of those who made the ultimate sacrifice so that freedom may continue to ring throughout our nation, as well making it possible for freedom to ring in many other areas of the world. Our military heroes will not be forgotten, both here and in many foreign countries where their sacrifices have touched the lives of others forever.

Route 41 near the Gap Town Clock was closed on June 6, 1971, for a Memorial Day parade.

Community Calendar

May 1. Kacie’s Cause Support Group

Parkesburg Baptist Church

103 West St., Parkesburg, 7 to 8 p.m. www.facebook.com/KaciesCauseParkesburg

May 1 and 8. Bible Study Group

Parkesburg Mennonite Church

44 E. Second Ave., Parkesburg, 10 a.m. Matthew’s parables of the kingdom will be explored. The topic on May 1 will be “The Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard.” The topic on May 8 will be “The Parable of the Ten Virgins.” Coffee and pastries will be provided.

May 2. Narcotics Anonymous

IMPACT Church

101 E. First Ave., Parkesburg, 5 p.m.

May 4. Macro Photography Class

Moores Memorial Library

9 W. Slokom Ave., Christiana, 9 a.m. to noon. Led by professional photographers Ed and Zach Heaton, attendees will take part in a hands-on close-up photography class. A fee will be collected per person. Proceeds will benefit the library. To register, stop by the library or email chrlib@christianalibrary.org.

May 4. Ladies’ Tea and Auction

Presented by Cornerstone Reproductive Health

Linville Hill Elementary School

295 S. Kinzer Road, Paradise. Registration and a preview of the auction items will begin at 9 a.m., followed by the program at 10 a.m. For more information, to host a table or to purchase tickets for the upcoming tea, visit www.pa cornerstone.org, choose “About” and then select “Events.”

May 4. Drive-through Chicken Barbecue

Russellville Grange

245 Old Limestone Road, Oxford, 3 to 5 p.m. The menu includes a-half chicken, potato salad, pickled cabbage, applesauce, a roll, dessert and a beverage. Preorders are requested. Call or text 717-572-0010 to place an order.

May 5. Church Service, Free Meal

New Beginnings Church of the Cross

1 Penn Ave, Christiana. Sunday morning worship will take place at 10 a.m. and then attendees may enjoy a free smorgasbord-style meal. The church is located between Newport Avenue and Pine Street, two blocks from the light at Route 41 and Pine Creek Drive. www.facebook.com/NewBeginningsCross

May 6. Prayer Group

Our Lady of Consolation Church

603 W. Second Ave., Parkesburg, 7 p.m. The community is welcome to join in praying the Rosary for world peace and unity in front of the Blessed Mother grotto on Chestnut Street next to the church. The group will gather each Monday during the month of May beginning at 6:50 p.m. For more information, contact the rectory at 610-857-3510.

May 11. Rescue Rally

East Fallowfield Park

900 Buck Run Road, Coatesville, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Featured will be adoptable animals from area rescues, local vendors and a chance to win prizes. The event is being presented by Rescue and Recovery. www.facebook.com/RescueAndRecoverr

May 18. Genealogy Workshop

Moores Memorial Library, 10 a.m. Led by Darlene Colón, president of the Christiana Historical Society, attendees will learn how to research their own family history using historical documents. To register, stop by the library or email chrlib@christianalibrary.org.

The Community Calendar is a weekly feature of the Community Courier. Submit your meting or event for consideration in writing at least two weeks prior to the event. Email submissions to ffulton@engleonline.com. For more information, call 800800-1833, ext. 6018.

17th annual EPC Golf Outing to drive out homelessness

BY ADRIAN ESCHENWALD

According to the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, more than 15,000 Pennsylvanians are known to be homeless on any given day. Housing instability and crises can stem from a multitude of factors, affecting men, women and children across the state. In Lancaster and Chester counties, nonprofit organization Good Samaritan Services (GSS) is working hard to combat homelessness by offering a variety of resources to individuals who are experiencing a housing crisis. One of GSS’ largest fundraisers is an annual golf outing that is made possible by a partnership with Engle Printing & Publishing Co., Inc. (EPC). The 17th annual EPC Golf Outing will take place on Friday, June 7, at Crossgates Golf Club, 1 Crossland Pass, Millersville. Tee times will be at 7:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Golfers may also purchase tickets for prize drawings that will feature items donated by businesses in the local community. Food will be included in the cost of admission; breakfast for the morning group will be provided by Joe on the Go Coffee Co., and the afternoon golfers will receive a boxed lunch from Trio Bar and Grill. Morning and afternoon golfers will be able to enjoy a meal from Peters’ BBQ when they finish their respective rounds.

A variety of sponsorship opportunities are available. “On the same day someone becomes a sponsor, a real person on the other end has a place to call home and has security for tomorrow because of them,” said Nate Hoffer, chief executive officer of GSS. “We’re so grateful for the support from EPC and its efforts to support organizations like us. It’s impressive how much dedication and time they put into this event.”

“EPC’s longstanding partnership with GSS, alongside with members from our community, has demonstrated that individuals in need can rely on their communities for support, enabling them and their families to rebuild and thrive,” noted Jocelyn Engle, EPC publisher.

On average, GSS has served 300 people per day and 72,000 meals every year since its founding in 1999. The organization, which began with a single location in Phoenixville, has since expanded to include additional facilities in Lancaster city, Coatesville and Kennett Square, along with a new office Ephrata, which was built last year. The continued expansions have allowed GSS to greatly increase the size of its staff, in addition to the number of people it is able to serve through its programs - and it couldn’t come at a better time. “We really are serving record levels of people; we’re on pace to serve 800 women and children this year, which is a 25% increase from 2023,” Hoffer said. “Our focus is on continuing to respond to the needs of our communities across Lancaster and Chester counties.”

The many programs offered by GSS include seasonal shelter during the cold months, emergency housing to address clients’ basic needs and transitional housing as individuals receive assis -

tance to meet their goals. According to Hoffer, these programs are primarily sustained by funding that comes from individuals and businesses in the community. “What we do provides such a critical, basic need, but the reality is that 98% of our budget comes from the good will of the people in our communities,” said Hoffer. “It keeps our doors open and our programs running.” Registration for the EPC Golf Outing may be completed online before Wednesday, May 29. For more information or to register online, visit https://epcgolfouting .com/register. To learn more about GSS and its programs, visit https:// goodsamservices.org.

Golfers get ready for a day on the green at last year’s EPC Golf Outing to benefit Good Samaritan Services.

Golfers support Good Samaritan Services by taking part in the annual EPC Golf Outing.

improvement homespring

Conservation efforts recognized

Watershed from pg 3

The Lancaster County Conservation District recognized outstanding efforts in natural resource conservation this spring at the organization’s 71th Awards Banquet at the Farm and Home Center in Lancaster.

The 2024 Outstanding Cooperator of the Year Award was presented to the Oberholtzer family farm of Clark and Marissa Oberholtzer, located in Peach Bottom. This distinction is given to a farm operation that has a well-developed working relationship with the Conservation District and partnering agencies, such as the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service, and has demonstrated a commitment to conserving the natural resources on its farm. In the five years since the Oberholtzers acquired the farm, Clark has implemented more than 5,100 feet of piped-outlet terraces; 2,600 feet of associated pipe work; 1,100 feet of grassed waterways; and 9.5 acres of a riparian buffer with the USDA’s Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program, totaling 1,800 native trees and shrubs planted

See Conservation pg 9

test. In the youth Wildlife division, Nick Kostyk of Cochranville won third place. Winners in the youth Landscapes division were all from Octorara, including Elizabeth Novak of Atglen, first place; Kelly Dolan of Cochranville, second place; and Jaymes Cross of Atglen, third place. In the youth Agriculture division, Abby Fleming of Parkesburg won first place. The winning photos were displayed at the high school for a week. “I was astounded at some of the beauty of their artwork. They were so excited,” said Kieffer, noting that students not involved with the class also expressed an interest in the contest. “Seeing the photos inspired the kids. Other kids want to

do it next year.”

All of the contest photos will be on exhibit at the Atglen Public Library, 121 Main St., Atglen, through Wednesday, May 1. The exhibit will then be featured at the Oxford Library Company and then the Quarryville Library.

Future plans call for the Stewards of the Octoraro Watershed to take part in stream studies. “The goal is to get the kids to do work in the watershed, doing water quality and water (testing) and be more active and involved,” noted Kieffer. “My (original) thought was of going to the Chesapeake Bay and I thought, ‘We have a watershed that we are part of. We need to get kids to protect what is in their backyard.’”

Don’t forget we also have all of the accessories!

Clips,

Beartown snowguards

Marissa (left) and Clark Oberholtzer received the Outstanding Cooperator of the Year Award.

Application available for PA Student Teacher Support Program

The Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) has announced that the student application for the new PA Student Teacher Support Program is now available on www.pheaa .org/StudentTeacher.

The PA Student Teacher Support Program is designed to address the financial strain caused by student teaching requirements, incentivize completion at local education agencies and non-public schools that struggle to attract educators, reduce teacher shortages in Pennsylvania, and incentivize cooperating teacher participation. Student teachers may face financial challenges, as they often forgo income while incurring additional expenses such as transportation and professional attire.

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro signed into law Act 33 of 2023, establishing the $10 million PA Student Teacher Support Program, which provides $10,000 to eligible student teachers. There is an option to receive an additional $5,000 for student teachers in highneed areas. The program also provides up to $2,500 to cooperating teachers who will be working with and mentoring student teachers throughout the student teacher experience. Program recipients must commit to teaching in Pennsylvania for three years following the completion of their teaching certification. PHEAA is administrating the program for the commonwealth. The application, along with additional program information, can be found at the aforementioned website.

ENCOUNTER CHURCH: 300 Hideaway Drive, Quarryville, PA 17566 Sunday Service & Kid's Church held at 8:30 am and 10:45 am. Church e-mail: office@encounterchurchpa.org www.encounterchuchpa.org Church phone: 717-786-2756

FAITH BIBLE CHAPEL: “Ordinary People Serving An Extraordinary God.” Sunday Worship 9:30 a.m. (Children’s Service during Pastor’s Message). Wednesday Prayer Meeting at 6:30 p.m. We are located at 140 Bernard Ave., Cochranville. Pastor Scott Althouse 610-593-6333 fbchapel@zoominternet.net

MIDDLE OCTORARA PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH: 1199 Valley Road Quarryville. Sunday Services: Sunday School 9 AM; Blended Worship 10:30 AM. 717-786-3402 Visit us online at www.middleoctorara.org

MT. VERNON CHRISTIAN CHURCH: Growing Deeper, Reaching Farther. 1 Lighthouse Dr, Kirkwood. Pastor Tony Murrin. Sunday School- all ages 9am, Worship 10:00am. Handicap Access. Phone: 717-529-4102. Visit us online at mtvernonchristianchurch.com

Pennsylvania student teachers who will be student teachers in the fall and spring semesters of the 2024-25 academic year are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. Eligible student teachers will need to download or print the PDF application located at the previously mentioned website. Completed applications can be submitted via the PHEAA Account Access Portal, email, or fax. Funds will be awarded on a firstcome, first-served basis per term basis. For more information, visit the aforementioned website.

Library Friends from

offered by the library, including the Summer Reading Program, as well as library expenditures. The Friends group recently purchased a new outdoor sign for the library and is looking to finance the cost of chimney repairs. A new sump pump is also needed to help with water issues in the basement of the library, where the Friends’ Read Moore Book Store is located. Those interested in supporting the library and joining the Friends are invited to attend a meeting of the group. Meetings are held on the second Thursday of each month at the library at 2 p.m. More information about the group is available at www.facebook .com/FriendsOfTheMoores MemorialLibrary.

In addition, library director Trish Vandenbosch has announced two upcoming events that will be held at the library.

A program about macro photography will be offered on Saturday, May 4, from 9 a.m. to noon. Led by

pg 1

professional photographers Ed and Zach Heaton, attendees will take part in a hands-on close-up photography class. People of all skill levels are welcome. Flowers and other props will be able, and attendees should bring their own cameras and tripods if they have one. A fee will be collected per person. Proceeds will benefit the library.

The library will also present a genealogy workshop on Saturday, May 18, at 10 a.m. Led by Darlene Colón, president of the Christiana Historical Society, attendees will learn how to research their own family history using historical documents. To register for either event, stop by the library or contact Vandenbosch at chrlib@christiana library.org.

Moores Memorial Library is located at 9 W. Slokom Ave., Christiana. For more information about library activities, visit www.christianalibrary .org or www.facebook.com /MooresMemorialLibrary.

GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH: Dedicated to the serious preaching & teaching of God’s Word. Traditional hymns & praise songs accompanied by guitar. Sunday Service 10:40am. 53 Hurley Rd, Parkesburg, PA 19365. 610-593-7123. www. gracecommunitychurch-parkesburg.com for messages, ministries and directions

HIGHLAND BAPTIST CHURCH: 1 EAST HIGHLAND RD., PARKESBURG PA 19365 610-857-1670 www.highland-bc.org

Sunday Services: Sunday School for all ages 9:30 am, Morning Service 10:45 am (nursery is available), Prayer Service 4 pm Wednesday Youth programs 6:30-8:00 pm. Thursday Ladies Bible Study 10:00 am

IMPACT CHURCH: IMPACTING lives with the Hope of Jesus Christ. Sunday Gatherings at 9 am & 10:30 am. 101 East 1st Ave., Parkesburg. Pastor Mike Bailey. 610-857-3887. Visit us online at WWW.IMPACTPA.CHURCH

LITTLE BRITAIN PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 255 Little Britain Church Rd., Peach Bottom (between 222 and 272). Sunday School Classes all ages 9:15 a.m. Worship Service 10:30 a.m. Youth Groups for Elementary, Jr. High and Sr. High, Choir, Bell Choir, Small Groups. Rev. Thomas Milligan, 717-548-2266. Web site: www.littlebritainchurch.org

E-mail: lbpc1732@gmail.com

Hearing assistance devices.

MANOR PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (PCA)

“Come find spiritual life in Christ for your family.” Cochranville: Rte. 926, halfway between Rte. 41 & Rte. 10. Rev. Daniel Henderson, Pastor. Sunday School for all ages at 9:30 am. Fellowship & Refreshments from 10:15-10:35 am. Worship with classes for infantsPre-K at 10:45 am Kidsworship for K5th is held during the sermon time. Youth Group for 6th-12th grades twice a month at 6:30 pm 610-869-2402. www.manorpresbyterian.com

MAPLE GROVE MENNONITE CHURCH: 549 Swan Rd., Atglen. 610-593-6658, Lead Pastor: Mike Clemmer, Music Minister: Matt Chambers. Sunday School 9am, Sunday Worship 10am, Children’s Church, Nursery. Youth Group Wed., 7pm. Christian Preschool. Visit us online at: www.maplegrovemc.com

PARKESBURG BAPTIST CHURCH: 103 West St., (next to Parkesburg Library & Minich Park). 610-857-9135 or Email: info@parkesburgbaptist.org. Pastor: Rev. Mary C. Lewis. Sunday Worship 10:30 am - Nursery Care & Jr. Church provided.

PARKESBURG WORD OF FAITH CHURCH

Sunday Service 10 am & Wednesday prayer at 7:30 pm - at 501 Lenover Rd., Parkesburg, PA 19365. Call 610-593-2277 www.parkesburgwordoffaith.org

SANDY HILL COMMUNITY CHURCH : 420 S. Sandy Hill Rd., Coatesville 610-857-3959; www.sandyhill.net. Sunday service: 10:15am; Bible teaching, music; Children’s classes, staffed nursery; Adult classes, 9:15am, Youth Min., Sundays, 5:30-7:30pm. Small Groups. A Friendly, Christ-centered church. Preschool: Enrolling-2 1/2-5 years, 610-857-1922

ST. CHRISTOPHER’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH

Where everyone can find a place to belong! 116 Lancaster Pike, Oxford (Rt. 472 at the Rt. 1 bypass ramps). Sunday inperson Holy Communion Service at 10:00 AM, also live-streamed. When people warmly welcome you, you will know you have found a church home where you can come just as you are. The Episcopal Church is Catholic in the way we worship and Protestant in the way we think. You’ll find beautiful music, good preaching, and an inclusive community in which to worship God. YOU BELONG HERE! Check out St. Christopher’s website, YouTube, or Facebook for updates and links. Rev. Dr. Mary Ann Mertz rector@stchrisoxford.org 610-932-8134 www.stchrisoxford.org

UPPER OCTORARA PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (EPC): 1121 Octorara Trail (on Rt. 10 a

on the property. Clark has gone above and beyond to conserve the natural resources on his farm for generations to come.

The 2024 Soil Stewardship Award went to Lloyd King of Salisbury Township. This award is presented to a member of the agriculture community in recognition of the recipient’s commitment to conserving soil and water on his or her farm.

King operates a dairy farm that he started 15 years ago, where he milks 70 cows and manages heifers and calves. He manages his herd by rotationally grazing them on 22 acres of pasture. He manages his pastures in a system that

can graze all his cows while maintaining dense vegetation year-round.

The Watershed Department awarded the 2024 Watershed Project Award to Simeon Esh, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Unique Excavating, Donegal Trout Unlimited, and the Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay.

Each partner played a key role in a stream restoration project on the Conowingo Creek. Their collaboration throughout the project, from landowner approval to securing a grant to installing the project, helped make the restoration successful. In total, the project restored 3,000 feet of aquatic habitat and created 4.5 acres of

riparian buffer.

The Erosion and Sedimentation Department presented the 2024 Building Industry Resource Conservation Award to the Walnut Street extension project and its key stakeholders, including High Associates, RETTEW, and Kinsley Construction. The recipients were recognized for their commitment to meeting the regulatory requirements of Chapter 102, demonstrating clear and consistent communication, and joining in the work of conserving the soil and water resources of Pennsylvania.

Ephrata Middle School teachers Jennifer Trout and Joshua Haupt were

each honored with a Conservation Educators Award. They were recognized for their dedication to personal and professional development about environmental literacy and their creative connections to engage students in local real-world water quality topics about stormwater and watersheds.

benefit the Quaker United Nations Office (QUNO), a non-governmental organization that represents the Quakers, also known as the Religious Society of Friends, at the United Nations. With offices in Geneva and New York City, QUNO aims to represent Friends’ concerns for international justice and peace.

“Because we are raising money to donate to QUNO, an organization that works for world peace, we named the (event) Peace Tea,” explained Meeting member Connie Webster, noting that information about QUNO will be displayed at the event.

Meetinghouse members will provide traditional tea cups and saucers and individual teapots. Both tea bags and loose tea made using an infuser will be provided. “We will have sandwiches and scones and there will be other sweets like cookies. We have different people making shortbread cookies and scones,” noted Webster. “We will have different varieties of hot tea, like regular black tea and herbal teas.”

Gluten-free and vegetarian options will be offered, and peanut butter and jelly sandwiches will be available for children.

Webster noted that this is the first tea that the Meeting has been held in several years because of the pandemic.

“We recommend reservations in advance,” she said. “People can call ahead to

reserve a spot, and payment will be accepted at the door. We are taking reservations for every 15 minutes from 2 to 4 p.m. People have to pick a time at 15-minute intervals.”

To reserve a ticket, call 484-985-0454. There will be separate prices for adults and for children age 12 and under.

Walk-ins will be welcome as space permits.

In addition, dark blue coffee mugs featuring an image of the meetinghouse will be for sale as part of the anniversary celebration.

According to www.sads buryfriendsmeeting.org, the meetinghouse is one of the oldest houses of worship in Lancaster County. Sadsbury Friends Meeting was founded in 1724, and

the original meetinghouse was built in 1725. In 1747, a larger meetinghouse, the present stone building, was constructed. Friends members took part in anti-slavery activities using their homes as stations of the Underground Railroad. They were also active in the Christiana Resistance of 1851 and during the time of the Civil War.

Currently, silent gatherings of worship are held on Sundays at 10:15 a.m. with a child-friendly area, and an adult forum is held at 11 a.m.

For more information about the tea and the meetinghouse, visit the aforementioned website or search for “Sadsbury Friends Meeting” on Facebook.

HG42 crawler tractor serial # 14GA510 (very nice); Oliver OC-3 crawler tractorr w/ blade serial # 4501616 (nice); Kubota B6100 diesel 2wd tractor 1775 hours; JD #80 lawn cart; Fairbanks 1.5 HP engine mounted on steel wheeled cart; Waterloo Boy 2 HP engine mounted on large express wagon; Tom Thumb by IH 1 HP engine mounted cart; JD 4.5’ x 16’ bale wagon; Bush Hog 8’ flail mower; IH 7’ pitmanless sickle

2-man saw; 2-man hand

saw; wooden pulleys & clamps; galv. tubs; hand adze; wooden boxes, chests & trunks; ammo boxes; old metal tins & bottles; parking meter; glass insulators; numerous pcs agate; (2) old clocks; WW11 helmet; apple peelers; NI thermometer; hay hooks; small crocks; reclaimed lumber feed chest & cabinet; Lawn & Garden; (5) Stihl chain saws MS461, MS440, MS290, O34 & O28; extra chains & bars; Husqvarna AWD mower w/ bagger; (2) Stihl FS106 string trimmers; Excell 2500 pressure washer w/ 5.5 HP Honda; Stihl leaf blower; Stihl 12V trimmer set; numerous alum & wood step & ext ladders; 1 cord cut & split firewood; misc gates; large amounts hand tools like shovels, forks, rakes, picks, sledges, axes, post hole diggers, post pounders, pruners, cant hooks, log grapples, wedges & digging irons; rope

Joshua Haupt (left) and Jennifer Trout were each honored with Conservation Educators Awards.

Single mothers gather for conference, awards presentation

Scores of women attended the Chester County Single Mothers’ Conference on April 6, title sponsored for a 10th consecutive year by Benchmark Federal Credit Union. Organized by the Chester County Community Collaborative with the support of more than 50 volunteers, the conference was free to all single moms and included free child care and lunch at Oscar Lasko YMCA and Childcare Center in downtown West Chester.

During the event, organizers recognized Jasmine Jones with the Belinda Harrison Award, which honors a working single mom who has overcome adversity and is active in her community. The first runner-up was Diane Bonifacino, and the second runner-up was Alaysia Hawkins.

Jones was nominated by North Star of Chester County. She grew up in West Chester and was educated in the West Chester

Area School District. While attending Cheyney University, she gave birth to her first of two children and was able to complete her studies in political science. She experienced challenging periods when housing, income, and employment were less than ideal, but she

always maintained full-time employment and worked through obstacles to become a role model of what hard work and self-sufficiency can achieve. Jones, a volunteer track coach, became a participant in the North Star of Chester County

See Conference pg 12

Jasmine Jones (second from right) and her family were in attendance at the Chester County Single Mothers’ Conference, where Jones received the Belinda Harrison Award.

material - steel from Erie Metal Roofs! Three styles and multiple colors available. Guaranteed to last a lifetime! Limited Time Offer - up to 50% off installation + Additional 10% off install (for military, health workers & 1st responders.) Call Erie Metal Roofs: 1-855-338-4807.

REPOSSESSED VEHICLE? YOU may be entitled to substantial money and improved credit. REPO ALERT! FREE LEGAL ADVICE 1-800-601-0808

Miscellaneous

DIRECTV OVER INTERNET - Get your favorite live TV, sports and local channels. 99% signal reliability! CHOICE Package, $84.99/mo. for 12 mos. HBO Max and Premium Channels incl. for 3 mos. (w/CHOICE Package or higher.) No annual contract, no hidden fees! Some restrictions apply. Call IVS 1-866629-6086.

DON’T LET THE stairs limit your mobility! Discover the ideal solution for anyone who struggles on the stairs, is concerned about a fall, or wants to regain access to their entire home. Call AmeriGlide today! 1-844-317-5246.

GET DISH SATELLITE TV + Internet! Free Install, Free HD-DVR Upgrade, 80,000 On-Demand Movies, Plus Limited Time Up to $600 in Gift Cards. Call Today! 1855-224-7694

NATIONAL

AGING ROOF? NEW Homeowner? Got Storm Damage? You need a local expert provider that proudly stands behind their work. Fast, free estimate. Financing available. Call 1-888-878-9091.

ATTENTION OXYGEN THERAPY USERS! Discover oxygen therapy that moves with you with Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrators. FREE information kit. Call 1-866-477-9045.

BATH & SHOWER UPDATES in as little as 1 DAY! Affordable prices - No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & military discounts available. Call: 1-877-543-9189.

SAFE STEP. North America's #1 Walk-in tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-the-line installation and service. Now featuring our free shower package & $1,600 off - limited time! Financing available. 1-855-417-1306.

WATER DAMAGE CLEANUP : A small

BUYING TOYS & COLLECTIBLES

www.DNRCollectibles.com

PA’s Largest Buyer of Toys & Collectibles

27 E Lancaster Street, Red Lion, PA

Hours: M-W 8am-4pm, Th.-F by appt. 717-329-8167 • rhoward1771@gmail.com

Toys Vintage or Modern, New or Used, Hess Trucks, Barbies, Diecast, Hot Wheels & Matchbox, Action Figures, Models, Trains, Sports Cards/Memorabilia, Movie/Music Memorabilia, Video Games & much more!

Lawn & Garden

FREE PICKUP

Unwanted Lawn Tractors & Garden Equip. Call Joe 646-591-6527 FREE REMOVAL of Riding Mowers. Call/text Jim 717-940-9029

NEED IRS RELIEF $10K-$125K + Get Fresh Start or Forgiveness. Call 1-877-7051472. Mon. through Fri. 7am-5pm PST.

PREPARE FOR POWER outages today with a GENERAC Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a free 5-year warranty with a qualifying purchase. Call 1855-465-7624 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move.

RUINED CREDIT FROM car repo? REPO ALERT! You may be entitled to substantial money and improved credit. FREE LEGAL ADVICE 1-800-601-0808.

SWITCH AND SAVE up to $250/year on your talk, text and data. No contract and no hidden fees. Unlimited talk and text with flexible data plans. Premium nationwide coverage. 100% U.S. based customer service. For more information, call 1-888-684-1169.

THE BATHROOM OF your dreams in as little as 1 day. Limited Time Offer - $1000 off or No Payments and No Interest for 18 months for customers who qualify. BCI Bath & Shower. Many options available. Quality materials & professional installation. Senior & Military Discounts Available. Call Today! 1-877-540-2780

BECOME A PUBLISHED author. We want to read your book! Dorrance Publishing trusted since 1920. Consultation, production, promotion & distribution. Call for free author’s guide 1-877-729-4998 or visit dorranceinfo.com/ads.

DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians

Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 400+ procedures. Real dental insurancenot just a discount plan. Get your free Information Kit with details! 1-855-5261060 www.dental50plus.com/ads #6258

DIAGNOSED WITH LUNG CANCER & 65+? You may qualify for a substantial cash award. No obligation! We've recovered millions. Let us help! Call 24/7, 1-877-707-5707.

DIRECTV STREAM - Carries the most local MLB Games! Choice Package $89.99/ mo. for 12 mos. Stream on 20 devices at once. HBO Max included for 3 mos (w/Choice Package or higher.) No contract or hidden fees! Some restrictions apply. Call IVS 1-866-859-0405.

LLC Timeshare Cancellation Experts. Over $50,000,000 in timeshare debt & fees cancelled in 2019. Get free info package & learn how to get rid of your timeshare! Free consultations. Over 450 positive reviews. 1-833-308-1971.

PLACE YOUR

7 MINI BERNADOODLE PUPPIES, b.2/26, 2 ACA BLUE MERLE CORGI Puppies b.2/8. UTD on shots, Vet checked, Family raised. Also 5 yr. old CORGI female ACA reg. $350. 717-687-8252 x1. ACA PEMBROKE WELSH CORGI PUPS, tricolored, shots/dewormed/vet checked, family raised, $325 obo.

THE GENERAC PWRCELL, a solar plus battery storage system. SAVE money, reduce your reliance on the grid, prepare for power outages and power your home. Full installation services available. $0 Down Financing Option. Request a FREE, no obligation, quote today. Call 1-866-783-0292. PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED AD ONLINE AT TOWNLIVELY.COM

DON'T LET THE stairs limit your mobility! Discover the ideal solution for anyone who struggles on the stairs, is concerned about a fall or wants to regain access to their entire home. Call AmeriGlide today! 1-833-399-3595.

DONATE YOUR CAR to Veterans Today! Help and Support our Veterans. FastFREE pick up. 100% tax deductible. Call 1-800-245-0398.

ELIMINATE GUTTER CLEANING Forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debrisblocking gutter protection. Schedule free LeafFilter estimate today. 20% Off Enitre Purchase. 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-833-610-1936.

GET DISH SATELLITE TV + Internet! Free Install, Free HD-DVR Upgrade, 80,000 On-Demand Movies, Plus Limited Time Up To $600 In Gift Cards. Call Today! 1866-479-1516.

HOME BREAK-INS TAKE less than 60 seconds. Don’t wait! Protect your family, your home, your assets now for as little as 70¢ a day! Call 1-844-591-7951

JACUZZI BATH REMODEL can install a new, custom bath or shower in as little as one day. For a limited time, waiving all installation costs! (Additional terms apply. Subject to change and vary by dealer. Offer ends 6/30/24.) Call 1-844501-3208.

MOBILEHELP, AMERICA'S PREMIER mobile medical alert system. Whether you're home or away. For safety & peace of mind. No long term contracts! Free brochure! 1-888-489-3936.

PREPARE FOR POWER outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase* Call 1-855-948-6176 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move.

PROFESSIONAL LAWN SERVICE: Fertilization, weed control, seeding, aeration & mosquito control. Call now for a free quote. Ask about our first application special! 1-833-606-6777

from pg 10

program, which coached her and helped her find scholarship funds. After a 10-year hiatus to focus on her family, Jones completed her graduate studies at American University Washington College of Law in December 2023. Her children are honors students and excel in sports.

At the conference, attendees had their choice of eight workshops covering legal insights, insurance, computer skills, and scam awareness, as well as a financial literacy workshop by Benchmark Federal Credit Union. Additional programming included a self-care lounge, a Community Connections resource fair, pampering, and workshops focused on physical and mental well-being.

Workshop presenters who volunteered their time include Rebecca Worthington, Benchmark Federal Credit Union; Deborah Steeves, Legal Aid of Southeastern Pennsylvania; Chaniera Stewart, Uncommon Women; Sophia Zouras, Wings for Success; Sharon Dickinson and Rachelle Riley, past Belinda Harrison Award winners; Martina Martin, former insurance professional; Michelle Hang, RSVP; and Nikky Richardson, FreeNikk Healing Arts.

More information on the Chester County Single Mothers’ Conference can be found by visiting https://singlemotherscc .org/ or searching on Facebook and Instagram for @SingleMothersCC and #SingleMothersCC.