IN THIS ISSUE: HEMPFIELD STUDENTS WIN AWARDS page 3
Hempfield
/townlively
APRIL 22, 2020
SERVING THE LOCAL COMMUNITIES SINCE 1954
VOL XXXVI • NO 5
Mental Health Support Available From MHALC By Dayna M. Reidenouer
A lot has been said lately about the importance of physical health as it pertains to the novel coronavirus. However, as people stay confined to their homes or report to jobs where they might be putting themselves at risk of illness, mental health must not be forgotten. “It is just as important to take protective action and precautions for your mental health as you would for your physical health. One cannot exist without the other,” advised Kim McDevitt, executive director of Mental Health America of Lancaster County (MHALC). “COVID-19 has changed the way we think about things. Where we had safety, we have insecurities. We are also conflicted with feeling anxious but also grateful for some of the gifts that we have received as a result of this crisis. The forced series of
events and feelings associated with them can throw our equilibrium off.” MHALC’s mission is to promote optimal mental health through advocacy, education, and support, so the organization has stepped up its efforts to help individuals cope with these trying times. “The uncertainty is what’s unsettling,” McDevitt said. “It’s important to remember, in spite of this all, you still have control over your day-to-day.” Both solitude and unrelenting closeness can be challenges. For people who seek connection, McDevitt recommended video chats with friends and family or calling someone they might not have talked to in a while. She noted that it is valuable to ask three simple questions of someone who might be struggling with loneliness: Do you feel left out? Do you lack companionship? Do you feel isolated? The answers to these See Mental Health Support pg 4
Mental Health America of Lancaster County leaders, including (from left) president Tracey Lavallias, executive director Kim McDevitt, and vice president Julie Weaver, have worked together to ensure their organization is prepared to offer increased mental health support.
Wayside Church Offers Virtual Connections Deadline Extended For Art Contest By Dayna M. Reidenouer
HEM
For the past few years, Wayside Presbyterian Church, 600 Stony Battery Road, Landisville, has livestreamed its worship services to members via
The Rev. Dr. Stephen Fritz
UStream using a secure, password-protected connection. Grace Notes worship band and choir member Chris Rowles, whom the Rev. Dr. Stephen Fritz dubbed the “in-house technology wizard,” formed a volunteer team to run the electronics. Derrick Matthews was hired as audiovisual technician to manage the complexities of running the camera, operating slides, monitoring the internet, and responding to quality control issues submitted by viewers. Thus, when the shutdown was declared in March, Wayside was ready. UStream video administrator Frank Richards removed the password requirement, and webmaster Brian Kosci added a link to www.waysidepc.org. All members of the public may now watch the services, logging on for traditional worship at 9:30 a.m. and contemporary worship at 11 a.m. During the traditional service, director of music Janelle Pabon plays keyboard and sings to the camera and accompanist Deb Konupka plays the grand piano or electronic organ. Parish associate the Rev. Larry Moir offers Scripture readings, prayers, and song support. Grace Notes takes the stage for the second See Wayside Church pg 2
Submissions Sought For Online Gallery By Dayna M. Reidenouer
In January, Mulberry Art Studios founder April Koppenhaver announced that she was accepting entries in the second annual Charles E. Gaul II and Milo “We Love Our Pets” contest and exhibition. April 1 was set as the deadline for entries, and the opening reception was scheduled for Friday, May 1. For obvious reasons, the timeline has changed. See Art Contest pg 2
“All the World,” a chalk art creation by Ethan Cole, 8, is the first youth contribution to Mulberry Art Studios’ new community collective online gallery space. All adults and children are invited to contribute artwork that expresses what they have been experiencing. People may also submit artwork in the Charles E. Gaul II and Milo “We Love Our Pets” contest until June 1.
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