Morgantown/Honey Brook /townlively
APRIL 15, 2020
IN THIS ISSUE: YMCA LAUNCHES VIRTUAL PLATFORM page 5
SERVING THE LOCAL COMMUNITIES SINCE 1954
VOL XXVIII • NO 12
Staving Off Cabin Fever By Ann Mead Ash
Since Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf ordered a statewide shutdown on March 16, those who found themselves at home - with or without
children - may be struggling to fill the hours in quarantine. Mary Bauer, founder of Lucky Dawg Animal Rescue, based in Chester County, has not hesitated to see the value in the hours. “Take advantage of the quarantine and get some fresh air and exercise with your dog,” said Bauer, who recommended throwing a ball or flying disc or working on basic training techniques. Those without pets to play with also have a variety of options for staving off cabin fever. Time online can be productive for both children
Ethan Lawrie, age 10, son of Mandy Leggett of Conestoga, displays a puzzle he and his family have worked on completing. Activities that are fun and educational can help keep children busy and encourage the making of family memories.
Churches Offer Opportunities To Worship Online While churches and other faith communities are currently not open to the public, worship is still thriving thanks to live events that are offered on websites and Facebook pages. In addition to live streaming services, many facilities are also offering Bible studies, daily devotionals and family game nights. “The church is not about a place where you gather - brick and mortar,” said the Rev. Jimmy Smuda, pastor of Trinity Assembly of God (AG) Church in West Chester. “It’s about the connection to one another and ultimately to God.” Trinity AG is currently offering live streaming of its Sunday service as well as online Bible devotions, prayer nights and more. All are invited to participate; it is not necessary to be a member of Trinity AG to join the programs. So far, the online offerings have been well received by the congregation. “It’s been encouraging to see,” said Smuda. “Not just at our church, but all of our pastors from the local area have
done a fantastic job connecting to their people.” He said that when people are struggling, faith can provide comfort. “I don’t know why this is happening,” Smuda shared. “What I do know is that my faith is what I put trust in - something higher than myself. We are promised through Scripture that no matter what, He is with us and that is where our comfort has to come in.” Individuals may access the services and other online programs at www.trinityag.org or www.facebook.com/TrinityAGWC. Other local churches are also offering online services. Church of St. Benedict in Mohnton live streams its Sunday Mass at 9 a.m. at www.church ofsaintbenedict.com/mass. The link becomes active 10 minutes before the Mass starts. Hopewell Church in Elverson is offering an online ministry that includes words of encouragement, relevant teaching and worship services. To access the programs, which include content for children and youths, readers may visit www.hopewellchurch.org. Brick Lane Community Church in Elverson is
See Cabin Fever pg 2
The members of the Troxell family of Mount Joy, including (clockwise from left) Charli, Charlie, and Alli, played four-square together during a recent day off from school. The Troxell children attend Dayspring Christian Academy in Mountville. Families are encouraged to find safe, fun activities to do together while many of their other activities may be on hiatus.
Precautions Set For Opening Day Of Trout Season Trout fishing season in Pennsylvania is scheduled to open statewide on Saturday, April 18, and the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) is asking anglers to take precautions against spreading the coronavirus. In a statement issued on March 27, the PFBC offered guidelines for those who plan to enjoy fishing in the upcoming months. When bank fishing or wading, anglers should keep a distance of at
least 6 feet between themselves and the nearest angler. It is also recommended that those fishing cover their face with a mask or bandana. If fishing with a child or children, people should advise the children not to wander into the personal space of other anglers. Individuals should also refrain from carpooling and should avoid crowded fishing locations. Everyone should avoid sharing fishing gear. See Trout Season pg 3
Lakes and streams throughout Chester and Berks counties, including Hopewell Lake (pictured), will be open for trout fishing starting on April 18.
See Worshipping Online pg 2
Free Design Carpet Cleaning
Shop at Home Service
Guaranteed Installation
Custom Blinds & Drapes
R057531
We will be Here for You, When this is Over
PRSRT STD ECRWSS U.S. Postage Paid Engle Printing Co
POSTMASTER: PLEASE DELIVER APR. 15, 2020
Postal Patron
MCC
By Francine Fulton
and adults, so consider searching the internet for free classes and other educational resources. Podcasts in an area of interest can help make the hours move more quickly, and online puzzles and games can also help keep the brain engaged. The situation is ideal for families to spend time creating quality experiences and memories. Break out the board games or the playing cards or just engage in an old-fashioned game of charades. Getting outside is also a great option. Yard games such as croquet or badminton are good choices when the weather is fine. A piece of chalk can create a hopscotch game in seconds, and a length of rope can provide hours of jumping activity. Maintaining social distance is easier in the great outdoors, so walking, running, and bicycling are all ways for members of a family to stay active while spending