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Cornerstone to host Ladies’ Tea and Auction

BY FRANCINE FULTON

Plans are underway for the 14th annual Ladies’ Tea and Auction that will be presented by Cornerstone Reproductive Health (formerly Pregnancy Resources at Cornerstone). The fundraiser will take place on Saturday, May 4, at 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.

A highlight of the event each year is the table decorations. Individual hostesses volunteer to decorate a table, and they invite their friends

to sit at their table. The ladies decorate their tables on the Friday evening before the tea. Themes last year included lemon-themed tables, a bird-themed table and a Christmas table featuring the hostess’s nutcracker collection.

“One lady got custom cookies to give to her guests as a gift that matched her table. It’s very fancy,” said Jennie Straub, Cornerstone’s executive director, noting that a hat contest will also take place.

A panel of volunteers will judge the tables and the hat contest to determine the winners. “(They will judge) the theme of the table, the elegance of the table and the originality,” explained Straub. “(For the hat contest), winners

will be the hat that matches the theme, the prettiest hat and the most original hat.”

Menu items, which will be prepared by Hillary Prickett from The Salted Apron, will include veggies and cream cheese on a flatbread, yogurt parfait, chicken salad on a croissant, veggie wraps, pinwheels with pesto, tea sandwiches and scones with lemon curd and jelly. Desserts will be mini apple rose pies, lemon mascarpone tarts and blackberry cupcakes.

Additionally, the tea will feature a live auction, including live flowers and items donated by local businesses. This year, auction items will include tickets

See Ladies’ Tea pg 5

BY JEFF FALK

Sometimes we try too hard. Sometimes we overthink things. Sometimes the answer is right in front of us.

The PA Family Travel Fair has a unique way of simplifying things. The lively event focuses on recreation, on Pennsylvania, on family.

“Recreation is so important to your well-being,” said Wendy Royal, organizer of the PA Family Travel Fair and editor of Where & When Pennsylvania. “It’s crucial to your health to check out of your job. It can just be a long weekend. But it’s time with kids too. It’s important for families to spend time together. It’s important to

get away and make those memories. You only get 18 summers with your kids.”

The sixth edition of the annual PA Family Travel Fair, hosted by See Travel Fair pg 4

Limeville Church sets spring craft show

BY FRANCINE FULTON

Building on the success of its first craft show last fall, Limeville Church, 5783 Limeville Road, Gap, will host a spring craft fair on Saturday, April 20, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The spring event will feature even more crafters than the first one, as well as food items prepared by church members.

“We had a lot of people filtering in and out (at the fall event) and everyone said how nice it was. We kept hearing compliments

throughout the show,” said congregation member Melanie Shivery, who is organizing the event along with Danae Baldwin. “This time, we will have hot dogs and beef barbecue for anyone who would like to eat lunch.” Takeouts will also be available. The craft fair will be set up downstairs in the church’s fellowship hall. Crafts for sale will include leather jewelry and leather crafts, custom iced coffee cups, crocheted stuffed animals and crocheted dresses. “We also have Dresden & Company baskets, and

See Craft show pg 2

Organizers include (from left) Kathy Greig, Jennie Straub, Grace Frey, Beth Mellinger, Courtney Rylee, Hillary Prickett and Olivia Imchen.

A little girl meets the Achenbach Pastries mascot at last year’s PA Family Travel Fair.

we have someone making homemade paper crafts - cards and banners - and homemade sewing crafts and beaded items.”

The fall event featured 16 crafters, including Shivery, who sold jewelry and cups. “(This time) our cap is 24 (crafters), and we are up to 19 crafters,” she noted.

All proceeds from the craft fair will support the church’s children’s ministry and the Limeville’s Blessings store, which offers free clothing, household items, children’s toys, toiletries and more to people in need. The store, which Shivery operates, opened at the church in July of 2022. Anyone in need of assistance is welcome to visit the store, and no proof of income or residency is required. Limeville’s

Blessings is currently open on Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

“Last year, we finished out the year helping 839 families,” Shivery reported. “This year, we have already helped a little over 200 families.”

People are permitted to visit the store to collect free items once per month. “We have people from all over coming. I post on Facebook when we are opening the night before or the morning before, and usually we

have 15 to 20 people sitting on the door stoop when the volunteer gets there,” Shivery noted. “There are a lot of people in need of clothes.”

Donations of gently used clothing, shoes, bedding, blankets and small kitchen appliances are also accepted during store hours. All donated fabric items must be freshly laundered and all clothing items should be separated and labeled by size and gender. Bedding

and sheets must also be marked by size. “We have donation guidelines. Everything has to be presorted,” noted Shivery. “We were getting shoes mixed in with clothes and towels.”

She said that those who receive children’s clothing from the store frequently return it to keep the cycle of giving going. “We get a lot of single parents who come. When our seasons change, they swap out their kids’ outgrown stuff and get new stuff,” Shivery said. “So they are helping the community while they are helping themselves.”

For more information about the craft fair or Limeville’s Blessings, visit www.facebook.com/ LimevillesBlessingsStore.

The Solanco Class of 1975 is starting to plan for its 50-year class reunion to be held in 2025. The first planning meeting will be held on Monday, April 22, at 6:30 p.m. at Wesley

Displaying craft items that will be for sale are (clockwise, from left) Skylar Shivery, Melanie Shivery, Deb Baldwin, pastor Don Hall, Joann Dickel, Danae Baldwin and Aubree Shivery.

Photo contest winners announced

BY FRANCINE FULTON

Chotty Sprenkle, contest organizer, recently announced the results of the fourth annual Octoraro Watershed Association (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.

A total of 65 photos were entered in four categories for youths and adults: Wildlife, Landscapes, Trailcam and Agriculture. “We had a tremendous response this year with some really outstand-

ing photos all taken within the Octoraro Watershed,” said Sprenkle.

All photos are now part of a traveling display. The photos will be on exhibit at the Atglen Public Library (APL), 121 Main St., Atglen, through Wednesday, May 1. The exhibit will then be featured at the Oxford Library Company and then the Quarryville Library.

Best of Show was awarded to Steven Berkowitz of Kirkwood for his photo that features a bald eagle in flight while clutching a piece of a fish and a stick in its talons. “It looks like a carp because there are a lot of them in the back section of the reservoir,” noted Sprenkle.

In the adult Wildlife category, Tom Murphy of Kirkwood won first place and was a People’s Choice award.

Karen Neuhauser of Parkesburg won second place and third place.

Winners in the adult Landscapes division were the following: Anita Bower of Nottingham, first place; Donna McCool of Cochranville, second place and a People’s Choice

award; and Darlene Kreider of Quarryville, third place.

McCool was also the firstplace winner in the adult Agriculture division. Berkowitz earned second place and Cindy Emery of Kirkwood captured third place.

In the adult Trailcam division, Rupert Rossetti of Port Deposit, Md., won first and second place, and Sprenkle won third place.

In the youth Wildlife division, Joelle Russell of Quarryville won first and second place, and Nick Kostyk of Cochranville won third places.

Winners in the youth Landscapes division were 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, and Joelle Russell of Quarryville won second and third place.

The winners of the show were announced at the OWA annual membership meeting on March 23 at Britain Hill Venue & Vineyard in Quarryville. Attendees were asked to vote for their favorite photo at

the event, and there was a People’s Choice tie between McCool and Murphy.

This year, students from the newly formed Students of the Watershed club at Octorara Junior-Senior High School, led by teacher Amanda Keifer, also participated in the contest.

“This was our first venture with them. We went into class and described what the OWA was and what we do and how we could partner together.

Best of Show was awarded to Steven Berkowitz of Kirkwood for his photo that features a bald eagle.

Travel Fair from pg 1

Where & When Pennsylvania, will be presented on Saturday, April 27, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at a new location, John Bonfield Elementary School, 101 N. Oak St., Lititz. The event is free to attend.

Our goal with the travel fair is to keep some of those tax dollars here. We’re trying to get people to spend some of their money in our state.”

“There’s nothing else like this in the state of Pennsylvania,” said Royal. “We call it a travel fair because it’s fun and informative. I’m amazed by how little people know about things to do in Pennsylvania. I’ve had so many people say to me, ‘Why doesn’t the state do this?’ The state of Pennsylvania tourism office’s job is to bring people in.

484-883-0303

More than 40 exhibitors will be represented at the PA Family Travel Fair, including visitor’s bureaus, museums, state parks, amusement parks, historical sites and Keystone State destinations. The low-pressure, laid-back atmosphere is enhanced by food trucks, live shows, giveaways, face painting and balloon artists.

In addition to substantial giveaway drawings from exhibitors, Where & When Pennsylvania will be giving away a Potter-Tioga getaway for four. The grand prize includes four nights of lodging at the Penn Wells Lodge; passes to museums, attractions, and tours; food vouchers; and more.

“We cater to our exhibitors,” said Royal. “They’re handing out free information. The cool thing is you get to talk to someone. You get first-hand knowledge and advice from someone who knows. When you’re there, it’s a lot of fun because we involve the kids.”

According to Royal, Pennsylvania is a unique travel destination.

“You can’t really compare it to other states,” said Royal. “The country was born in Pennsylvania. It all

started in Philadelphia, and at one point, Pittsburgh was the wild west. So much has happened here. There’s so much history, and there’s so much fun.”

The PA Family Travel Fair was started in 2018 as a way to meet a need for affordable family vacations. Since then, the need for recreation or for family togetherness hasn’t changed. In fact, if anything, it has grown stronger.

“Way too many of us are leaving vacation days on the table at the end of the year,” said Royal. “(Family vacations are) a time when we can connect. We encourage families to spend time together and disconnect from technology. There are

a lot of fun things to do with the family, and it doesn’t have to be expensive. Or you can make it a history trip.”

For additional information about the PA Family Travel Fair, go to www .pafamilytravel.com.

Church posts community meal

The mission committee of the Leacock Presbyterian Church, 3181 Lincoln Highway East, Paradise, will serve a hot meal from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 25. The menu will consist of lasagna, garlic and plain bread, tossed salads, fruit salads, and dessert.

The meal is free and will be served in the handicapped-accessible Smith Fellowship Hall.

For additional information, call the church at 717-687-6619.

A representative of the Pennsylvania Great Outdoors Visitors Bureau distributes information at the 2023 PA Family Travel Fair.

With assistance from an audience member, a representative of Clyde Peeling’s Reptiland presents information about an amphibian at last year’s PA Family Travel Fair.

A representative of DelGrosso’s Amusement Park & Laguna Splash interacts with a visitor at the 2023 PA Family Travel Fair.

Ladies’ Tea from pg 1

to Sight & Sound Theatres, paintings, flower arrangements, jewelry, gift baskets and restaurant gift cards. Proceeds from the auction will benefit the ministry. “Cornerstone is a nonprofit medical clinic for women or men who are experiencing an unintended pregnancy. We changed the name officially last summer,” Straub explained. “We changed to reproductive health because we are offering

more services now. We do STI and STD testing that is free. We felt that reproductive health was more up-to-date and encompassing all the services we provide, not just pregnancy services.”

Cornerstone also has a new mobile medical unit that is ready to provide services. “Our plan is to have the unit go out two to three days a week and on the other days have it

here at the clinic available for appointments,” Straub noted.

For more information, to host a table or to purchase tickets for the upcoming tea, visit www.pacorner stone.org, choose “About” and then select “Events.” The tea is open to women age 18 and older. Tickets purchased before Thursday, April 25, will be discounted. Tickets will also be available at the door.

Youth event to focus on outdoor activities

Lancaster County Sportsmen for Youth will host the 29th annual Youth Field Day on Saturday, June 1, from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Southern Lancaster County Farmer-Sportsmen’s Association, 742 Hollow Road, New Providence.

The event offers kids ages 10 to 15 opportuni -

ties to engage in outdoor activities. During the event, activities will include archery, canoeing, fish/fly fishing, muzzleloading, .22 rifle, trapping, trap shooting, turkey, and waterfowlers. The Pennsylvania Game Commission will give a presentation.

This event is free and includes a free lunch. All

equipment will be provided, and attendees do not need to bring any gear. Parents may accompany their children if they wish.

Preregistration is required at www.register-ed.com/ events/view/208273. For more information, search for “Lancaster County Sportsmen For Youth” on Facebook.

ATGLEN MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH: E. Main and Dallas Sts., Atglen, PA. Joe Newsome, Interim Pastor. Join us Sundays at 11am as we preach Christ crucified, risen and coming again so all may come to a personal, saving relationship with Christ.

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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 mile south of Rt. 30), Parkesburg. Christ-centered, Handicapped accessible. Sunday School all ages 9:30 am (Sept-May). Sunday Worship (Blended style) 10:30 am. Adult choir, Youth Group & a variety of adult groups. Dr. Jerry Iamurri, Supply Pastor. (610)857-5787 www.uopc-epc.org Find us on Facebook. Christian Preschool: (610)857-0236

Please Note: Updates can be made to your church’s listing for 1st issue date of each month only. (Changes must be submitted by the previous Wednesday.)

For More Information On Church Listings And Rates, Call Justin at 717-492-2533

SUMMER 2024 HORSEBACK RIDING CAMP

258 Spring Valley Rd. Oxford, PA

Community Calendar

April 17 and April 24. 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 April 17 will be “The Parables of the Mustard Seed, the Yeast, the Hidden Treasure, the Pearl and the Net.” The topic on April 24 will be “The Parable of the Unmerciful Servant.” Coffee and pastries will be provided.

April 17. Kacie’s Cause Support Group

Parkesburg Baptist Church

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

April 18. Narcotics Anonymous IMPACT Church

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

April 20. Spring Craft Show

Limeville Church

5783 Limeville Road, Gap, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Featured will be vendors displaying and selling their products. Limeville Church will also sell hot dogs, with proceeds going towards Limeville’s Blessings Store and the church’s children’s ministries. Those who are in reserving a table for should visit www .limevillechurch.org and click on the “Craft Show” tab for more information and to fill out the registration form.

April 20. Knight at the Races Fundraiser

Our Lady of Consolation Church

Schneider Parish Center, 2995 Cemetery Road, Parkesburg. Doors will open at 6 p.m.; the first event will begin at 7 p.m. The admission fee includes dinner and beverages. For more information, call event organizer Tom Henderson at 610-304-6546.

April 20. Christiana Historical Society Descendants Luncheon

Masonic Lodge

115 E Slokom Ave Christiana, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The annual luncheon will celebrate the descendants of the Christiana Resistance. Guest speaker will be Darlene Colón, society president, who is a descendant of one of the participants in the Resistance. A fee will be collected per person. Register at www.christianahistoricalsociety.com.

April 21. 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

April 21. Princess Ball

Presented by Moores Memorial Library

White Chimneys

5117 Lincoln Highway, Gap, 2 to 4 p.m.

The event will include food and carriage rides. Attendees are encouraged to attend dressed as their favorite princess. Contact or visit the library to purchase tickets. www.christianalibrary.org

April 24. Story Time

Presented by Moores Memorial Library

In observance of Autism Awareness Month, story time will be held at WaterGap Stables, 352 Noble Road, Christiana. Attendees will enjoy stories with the ponies. Participants should meet at the barn. Parking will be available. www.facebook.com/ MooresMemorialLibrary

April 25. Christiana Historical Society Speaker Series

Christiana Borough Building

10 W Slokom Ave., Christiana, 6:30 p.m. Guest speaker Taylor Lamborn will share his knowledge about Quaker marriage certificates. Everyone is welcome.

www.christianahistoricalsociety.com

May 4. Drive-through Chicken

Barebcue

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.

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 800-800-1833, ext. 6018.

Program to focus on code breaker

The Historical Society of Salisbury Township will meet on Thursday, April 18, at 7 p.m. at the Salisbury Township Building, 5581 Old Philadelphia Pike, Gap.

Roberta McManus will speak about Juanita Moody, who was a code breaker during the Cuban Missile Crisis.

CCYC adds music studio to foster positive change

The Chester County Youth Center (CCYC) recently added a recording studio to its facility. The studio includes technology for music production, recording book readings, graphic design, and video editing.

The studio was initially suggested by a resident of the Youth Center, and it became a reality after CCYC was connected with Lancaster-based Creative Hope Studios through the Chester County Juvenile Probation Office. Creative Hope Studios engages with youths in the juvenile justice system through hip-hop and creative arts to develop a platform for positive change.

Founded in 2021 by a

team of music industry professionals, juvenile justice trainers and community activists, Creative Hope Studios uses hip-hop’s four fundamental elements in its program: graffiti, break dancing, rapping, and DJing. Participants can write, record, and edit music and lyrics, read a book or record a message for family members, and create graphic designs for album covers. Use of the studio at CCYC is a privilege that is earned.

The Creative Hope studio at the Chester County Youth Center was purchased through a Title I grant, and CCYC staff received training on operating and maintaining it.

Suski chosen to direct transit department

Chester County Commissioners Josh Maxwell, Marian Moskowitz, and Eric Roe recently approved the appointment of Gene Suski as the new director of Chester County’s Community Transit Department, also known as Chesco Connect. Suski has worked for Chester County since 1998, most recently as community services and construction manager for the Department of Community Development. During his career, he has worked with entities such as the Transportation Management Association of Chester County, SEPTA, and the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.

Suski is a graduate of Widener University and a veteran of the Pennsylvania National Guard.

Chesco Connect provides door-to-door shared ride transportation for residents of Chester County to places such as medical appointments, work, grocery stores, pharmacies, and senior centers.

Creative Hope Studios trainer Corey Oatman explains to the Chester County Youth Center’s staff members how to operate and maintain the new music studio.

Gene Suski

Library Friends plan spring tea

The Friends of the Moores Memorial Library will present a “Welcome Spring” tea party on Saturday, April 20, from 2 to 4 p.m. The event, which will be held at a new location this year, will take place at Christiana Fire Company, 214 S. Bridge St., Christiana.

The tea was traditionally held in February, but this year, organizers have changed the time and location of the event. “Since we changed the month, we changed the venue, and instead of having a guest speaker, we have decided to go with a garden theme,” said Friends member Jeannette Kolb.

The last tea hosted by

the Friends was held in 2020, and the theme was “Alice in Wonderland.” Previous themes have include “Downton Abbey” and “Gone With the Wind.” “We had it in February 2020, and then in March, we went on lockdown, so we have not had this event since COVID,” noted Joan Esworthy, Friends president.

Afternoon tea fare will be featured at the event, including scones with lemon curd, assorted tea cakes and a variety of teas. “We will have sweets and savories. The theme is ‘Welcome Spring,’ so we will be decorating the tables for spring,” Esworthy said. “Since there is no guest speaker this year, the women (can) chat.”

“We will also have several photo op backgrounds like a garden bench where attendees can take their photo,” Kolb added.

Attendees are encourage to wear tea attire, which includes hats or fascinators, which are decorative headpieces that are attached to the head with a hair clip or comb. A limited number of fascinators will be available for purchase at the event.

There will also be an opportunity for guests to win door prizes. “Door prizes will be gift certificates for our (May) plant sale and the Read Moore Book Store, books, a garden basket and a John Esworthy painting,” Kolb noted.

All proceeds from the tea will benefit the library.

A fee will be charged per person. For more information or to reserve a ticket, call

the library at 610-593-6683.

Tickets are also available for purchase at the library, 9 W. Slokom Ave., Christiana. Cash, check or Venmo will be accepted for payment.

The library has also announced that it will hold a Princess Ball on Sunday, April 21, from 2 to 4 p.m. at White Chimneys, 5117 Lincoln Highway, Gap. The event will include food and carriage rides. Attendees are encouraged to attend dressed as their favorite princess. A fee will be charged per person. Children age 2 and under will be admitted for free. Contact or visit the library to purchase tickets.

To learn about other upcoming library events, contact the aforementioned number, visit www.christiana library.org or search for “Christiana Library” on Facebook.

Short Film Festival slated

The 18th West Chester International Short Film Festival will be held from Friday to Sunday, April 26 to 28. Featuring film blocks, parties, workshops, pop-up blocks, and more, the festival will bring films from dozens of countries to downtown West Chester in a celebration of independent filmmaking.

The festival will include productions in many genres. In a single two-hour block of films, audiences can experience drama, a documentary, a creative art piece, animation, comedy, and more. The festival will also include special events, such as the opening night party, a filmmakers meet-and-greet, filmmaker workshops, and the Closing Night Chester Awards Party.

The festival recently announced a new president, Sarah Beck, and five new board members. The festival was previously led

by Carol Quigley.

Beck has been a part of the festival since the beginning. She has a deep knowledge of not only the fest, but also the West Chester community, as she is also the operations manager of the Brandywine Ballet and an adjunct professor at Cheyney University, among other roles.

For additional information, visit www.westchester filmfestival.com, email info@westchesterfilm festival.com, or search for @WCFilmFestival on social media.

Organizers of the event include Friends members (from left) Toady Kennel, Karen Woods, Joan Esworthy, Kate Valentino and Jeannette Kolb.

Celebrating a journey of 30 years

BY ANN MEAD ASH

“I get chills thinking about the changes over the years,” said Carissa Pinkard, director of development with The Factory Ministries. Pinkard is working to plan the upcoming 30th anniversary celebration of the ministry, which began as a youth center in a former sewing factory. “Imagine all that has gone on the last 30 years, last 20, last 10,” Pinkard added.

The Factory Ministries’ 30th anniversary gala will be held on Tuesday, June 18, at Palm Court at the Willow Valley/DoubleTree Resort, 2400 Willow Street Pike, Lancaster. A

VIP hour will be held at 5 p.m., and the event will begin at 6 p.m., with an 8 p.m. dessert and social hour. The celebration will feature a speaker, a silent auction, and a live appeal.

The Factory is a faithbased organization with a mission that reads in part, “Because of what Jesus has done for us, we believe that everyone’s journey matters.” The organization endeavors to offer services and programs to empower whole families and impact “real people with real problems.”

Adam Nagle, executive director of the ministry, will speak about the history of The Factory, with special focus on the last

five years. “There will be people in attendance that don’t know much about The Factory, so we will want to take this opportunity to really share not only where we have come from and how we’ve grown, but why we’re here and what we plan to do and keep doing,” said Pinkard.

A silent auction of about 200 items will feature signed sports memorabilia, items related to singer Taylor Swift and other celebrities, and exclusive travel experiences. Items donated by local businesses will also

be included. Communications director Ellie Green noted that pearl is the 30th anniversary gem. “We are really excited about some pearl items we will have,” she stated. “There will be an authentic pearl in the silent auction.”

The live appeal will be presented by auctioneer Andy Keller. “We are a vessel for the community to care for one another, which is a huge honor,” noted Green. “This event is an opportunity to talk about what’s been going on and what we are hoping for in the future.” Green

went on to say that the community leaders, business leaders, and donors in attendance will have the chance to invest in and be a part of the work of The Factory. Pinkard noted that while recommended attire for the event is formal, organizers do not want anyone to feel excluded by that requirement. “We are not expecting men to wear tuxedoes or women long

dresses,” she said. “(Wear) what would you wear to an evening wedding. It could be a tuxedo, a suit, or dress slacks and a tie. It’s a formal event, but (we want guests to) be comfortable.”

A number of table sponsorship packages are available. Individual tickets may be purchased at www .thefactoryministries.com by clicking on the “30th Gala Event” button or by calling 717-847-9982.

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Factory Ministries staff members Ellie Green (left) and Carissa Pinkard display pearls that will be up for bids in a silent auction at the organization’s 30th anniversary gala.

Arthur Hall Insurance announces promotion, agency

recognition

Arthur Hall Insurance recently announced the promotion of one of its employees as well as its recognition for being a top performing agency.

Karin G. Ricciardi was promoted to the position of account manager. In addition, Ricciardi has obtained the Certified Insurance Service Representative (CISR) designation.

Ricciardi began her career at Arthur Hall Insurance in 2009 at the West Chester office and recently celebrated her 15-year work anniversary.

Throughout the years in the agency and through her professional experience, she has progressed from a service representative to an account representative, associate account manager and now account manager. As an account manager, Ricciardi will actively market, write and manage client relationships while advising and advocating for her clients.

Ricciardi grew up in a family that was involved in the insurance business, and her father was a source of support as she studied to become a licensed agent. She currently lives in West Chester.

Additionally, insurance carrier Westfield, a U.S.based property and casualty company, recognized Arthur Hall Insurance for demonstrating a proven commitment to customers and superior performance industrywide. A biennial review by Westfield evaluates more than 1,000 independent agencies in nine key areas, such as long-term growth, strategic focus, agency planning, tech investments and digital footprint. Arthur

The CISR designation is recognized throughout the industry as a standard of achievement and ongoing professionalism. To achieve this certification, people are required to successfully complete five courses and examinations in the areas of personal and commercial insurance and agency operations. They must also commit to annual continuing education to update their designation and knowledge in order to serve their clients, agencies and companies at the highest level.

Hall Insurance scored as a top performer in these areas and qualified for Westfield’s Propel program. Propel agencies represent the top performers of Westfield’s overall agency force. These agencies align with Westfield’s promise to provide solutions, and they demonstrate excellence in various performance metrics, including responsiveness and focus on customers and key investments.

For more information about Arthur Hall Insurance, visit www.arthurhall.com.

DVCCC plans

All That’s Purple Celebration

The Domestic Violence Center of Chester County (DVCCC) will hold the All That’s Purple Celebration on Thursday, May 2, from 6 to 9 p.m. at Penn Oaks Golf Club, 150 Penn Oaks Drive, West Chester.

Susan Higginbotham, chief executive officer of the Pennsylvania Coalition Against Domestic Violence, will speak. The event will also include a silent auction and a live auction hosted by NBC10’s Tracy Davidson and TEDx speaker Jen Croneberger.

To purchase tickets by Friday, April 26, or for sponsorship information, visit www.dvcccpa.org/ all-thats-purple. For more details, contact Kathleen Purcell, director of philanthropic partnerships, at 610-431-3546, ext. 116, or email kpurcell@ dvcccpa.org.

The mission of the DVCCC is to reduce, remedy, and prevent domestic violence in Chester County. The organization’s vision is to eliminate domestic violence in Chester County.

Karin G. Ricciardi

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LBC sets open house

Lancaster Bible College (LBC) will host a spring on-campus open house on Friday, April 19. Geared toward prospective high school students and their families, the event will run from 8:45 a.m. to 2 p.m. and will include tours of the Lancaster campus at 901 Eden Road, interactions with faculty and current students, lunch in Olewine Dining Commons, the opportunity to experience a chapel gathering in Good Shepherd Chapel, visits to classrooms and athletics facilities, and more.

Students and families may also ask questions about topics such as LBC’s integration of the Bible into every program, Division III Chargers sports teams, and short-term and semester study abroad programs. They may also learn about student access to the Counseling & Care Center, academic mentoring, writing support, and accessibility services.

To sign up for the open house, visit www.lbc.edu/ openhouse.

Photo winners from pg

3

(We asked the students) to pick out photos from their phones and enter the categories,” said Sprenkle. “The graphic arts department at the school helped them print out the photographs and mount them.”

The photos taken by the Octorara students were on display for a week at the high school prior to being taken to the APL.