Stacking the Pantry
BY LOGAN MOYER
Dylan Houck has gotten much older, but his urge to feed those in need hasn’t gotten any weaker.
Dylan was a 4-year-old when he started his annual Helping Hunger Food Drive in 2015. He collected 400 pounds of food over two weeks in his inaugural effort.
Dylan, now 15 and a freshman at Pequea Valley Secondary School, is aiming to collect 20,000 pounds of food for the Chester County Food Bank (CCFB) in this year’s drive.
“Children in the summer whose parents can’t come home from work and feed them, they don’t really know where their next meal is coming from,” Dylan said. “They don’t even know when they’ll eat next.”
Dylan, the son of Jackie and Thomas Houck of Gap, is joined in the effort by his two younger brothers, Wesley and Tyler. Last year, the family delivered 19,360 pounds of food to CCFB in early May.
The effort began in 2015 when a
BY LOGAN MOYER
Joseph Amaral remembers pulling up the captain’s ring like it was just yesterday.
Amaral was a 34-year-old commercial diver when he found the captain’s ring of the legendary DeBraak shipwreck. The Parkesburg resident turned 76 last month, but the day is still clear in his mind.
Last year, he decided it was time to write a book to share
power outage sparked a conversation about lost food. When Dylan’s parents explained to him that not every family could just go out and get more food, Dylan didn’t sleep too well that night.
his experiences from four decades of diving. He started writing the novel in September, and it was done and published by Christmas. Not too shabby of a turnaround, especially for a first-time author.
“Without (my publisher), I couldn’t have moved as quickly as I did,” Amaral said. “I was able to tell my stories.”
Amaral’s book, titled “My Hunt for the Lost Ships of History,” is a six-chapter,
“I woke up the next morning still pretty upset,” said Dylan, whose parents suggested they get some food and donate it to a food bank.
“Then I started naming all of my little preschool friends, asking if
Food Drive pg 3
Southeast Region of PFBC Promotes Waterway Well-being
BY JEFF FALK
The southeast portion of Pennsylvania is the most densely populated part of a predominantly rural state. But that doesn’t mean all those residents have to travel far to enjoy Pennsylvania’s outdoor recreational activities.
One of the main initiatives of the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) is to provide and promote natural fun in and around water.
“I think we really need to make people aware of all the opportunities around them,” said Andy Desko, who’s been the outreach and education coordinator for the Southeast Region of the PFBC for 18 years. “We want to help introduce folks to them right in their backyards. There are many accesses (to water) out there. People may not be aware that there are boat accesses near them. I want to inspire people to check out the opportunities.”
The PFBC’s Southeast Region office is headquartered just north of the town of Lititz, at 255 W. Brubaker Valley Road, Lititz, at Speedwell Forge Lake. The Southeast Region office, which is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Mondays through Fridays, primarily serves as the rules and regulation enforcement headquarters for PFBC, but it does offer some services and amenities.
As outreach and education coordinator, Desko does work out of the Lititz office periodically, but he spends the majority of his work time in the field and around water.
Joseph Amaral’s book, “My Hunt for the Lost Ships of History,” came out in December and was published by Arnica Press. Photo by Logan Moyer
Dylan Houck and his mom, Jackie, have been staging the Helping Hunger Food Drive every year since 2015.
Gap and Other Villages
Submitted by Leona Baker for the Historical Society of Salisbury Township In 2026, the United States is celebrating its 250th anniversary. In 1776, the people were seeking freedom from what they considered an oppressive government. Whether those who were rebelling were Patriots or Tories depended on lifestyle as well as point of view. The next few “From the Attic” columns will discuss the beginnings of villages established before that time in what would later become Salisbury Township. At first, explorers and trappers traded with the Native Americans. Later, hundreds of European families arrived, escaping either religious persecution or dire poverty. They settled in the forests, cutting trees for wood to build homes and barns, and clearing fields
to begin raising crops in the rich soil of the valley. Where one family settled, others soon joined, until a small village evolved.
The first village to endure appears to have been at the crossroads of what became Gap-in-theHills. Evidence indicates that Gap was already a geographical entity when Jonas Nilson traveled from Philadelphia to trade furs for goods in 1644. Nilson used a road that lay on the north-south trade route from New Castle, Del. Apparently, trading was brisk and profitable, and by 1701, when William Penn came west to confirm relations with the Susquehannock Native Americans, pioneers were using that north-south trail as one of the clearest routes to the frontier. Francis Jones recognized the importance of providing goods and lodging to those travelers and, in 1726, built a tavern on today’s Gap Road to accommodate those coming from New Castle, as well as others traveling from Philadelphia on what was called the Minquas Path. Today, Gap remains a crossroads, and Newport Pike (Route 41) and Lincoln Highway (Route 30) are two of the busiest highways in the county.
Robert Gault brought his family to the New World in 1709. Legend has it that upon arriving in New Castle, Gault traveled ahead to search for the “perfect” place to settle. But after collecting his family, he turned
north too early and could not find his marked land. Instead, he settled near a spring on the high ridge above today’s Cambridge Road. As other families joined him, the village of South Hermitage began to grow. Today, the family homestead still stands; the 300-year-old Pequea Presbyterian Church continues to thrive; the White Hall school, built in 1834, remains as a private home; and the farmland surrounding continues to produce abundant crops. Legend says that the name South Hermitage derives from a religious group from upper New York that came south to the area and decided to keep its village name, adding “south” to distinguish the change of location.
White Horse, a good day’s journey from Philadelphia, began as a settlement along the Colonial road built in 1733. Known as the Kings’ Highway, the road roughly followed Old Peter’s Road, a trade route used by the French-Canadian fur trader Peter Bisaillon. Bisaillon’s route probably followed even older Native American trails. The White Horse Inn, around which the village grew, served many of the pioneers traveling along the route. Today, the old inn is a private home, and the village thrives.
Some information shared in this column can be found in Joan Lorenz’s 2002 book, “The History of Salisbury Township, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania.”
14
they could come and do it as well ... It’s kind of ramped up every year from there.”
Since then, Dylan has collected and donated 62,756 pounds of food to CCFB and other local entities.
This year’s drive began on April 13 and will run through Wednesday, May 13. On weekends, Dylan and his brothers will set up shop at a local grocery store and ask shoppers to donate items.
“The Grocery Outlet and Dutch-Way are usually pretty big supporters,” Jackie said. “We just hand people slips of paper on their way in, and then they do their shopping and then hand the groceries to us on the way out.”
New for this year’s drive, the family has started a GoFundMe page to raise
money to buy additional food, the idea being that the money will allow the family to buy food in bulk and save some funds that way. The family has also reached out to businesses, schools and sports teams to join in on the effort.
To donate to Dylan’s effort, visit www.gofund me.com/manage/join -dylans-mission-to-fight -hunger. Those interested may also drop items off at Keller Williams, 131 Woodcutter St., Suite 100, Exton. Items needed for this year’s drive include peanut butter and jelly, beans (especially black beans), rice, tomatoes/sauce, oils, mayo, spices, canned tuna and chicken, juiced canned fruits, applesauce, pasta, macaroni and cheese, individual bottled water, granola bars, personal
Girls’ Night Out Event Planned
Homestead Studios, 100 Main St., Parkesburg, will host the Ultimate Girls’ Night Out on Wednesday, May 6, at 6 p.m. The event will celebrate the five-year anniversary of the shop’s relocation to Main Street.
The Ultimate Girls’ Night
Out will feature Western apparel from Wander West Mercantile, wine tastings with Britain Hill Winery, sourdough specialties from the Kitchen Klutz and complimentary charcuterie from Let It Brie!, as well as artisan chocolates and spring decor.
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hygiene items like deodorant and toothpaste, feminine hygiene products like tampons and pads, diapers, toiletries like toilet paper and tissues and cleaning supplies.
While the drive is underway, some of the food is kept in the family’s garage, while the rest of it is held in storage units or in trailers.
The food will be delivered to CCFB on Thursday, May 14, as part of a “Red Day” collaboration with Keller Williams Real Estate in Exton, where Jackie works. Agents from Keller Williams take the day off to help the family box up the food and deliver it to the food bank.
“One of the things that’s really important to Dylan is making sure that people recognize that there’s a need,” Jackie said.
Laundry Love Program
Posted
WordUP Ministries and Laundry Love will offer an opportunity to wash and dry clothing free of charge on Thursday, May 7. The program will take place from 1 to 3 p.m. at Gap Laundry, 5291 Lincoln Highway.
For more details, contact Buck Mowday at buckmowday@gmail.com or 717-330-0561.
The food will be delivered to Chester County Food Bank on May
as part of
“Red Day” collaboration with Keller Williams Real Estate in Exton, where Jackie works.
ONLINE AT: epcclassifieds.com • classifieds@engleonline.com
White Horse Fire and EMS Prepares for Gallop
BY LOGAN MOYER
& Boots For The Whole Family
White Horse Fire and EMS Company will host its fourth annual White Horse Gallop 5K, 10K and community day on Saturday, May 23.
The event will feature a 10K and 5K cross-country run, as well as a fun run and several free community activities. It will take place at the fire station, 111 White Horse Road, Gap. There is a cost to register.
The race has become known for its unique start, which features a white horse opening the gallop.
The horse comes from a local farm.
“When we decided to call it a White Horse Gallop, we felt like we needed a horse,” said Alvin Stoltzfus, one of the organizers of the event. “I know (the farmer) spent some time training the horse ... he takes a lot of pride in it.”
On the day of the race, registration will begin at 6:30 a.m. The fun run will start at 8 a.m., followed by the 10K at 8:30 a.m. and the 5K at 8:35 a.m.
Both the 5K and 10K routes remain unchanged. As in the past, runners will leave the fire company and
travel south on Route 897 and return on Route 340 (Old Philadelphia Pike). Sections of both roads will be closed during the run; hills will be featured on School Lane Road during the second mile of both runs.
The fun run, limited to youngsters age 9 and under, will be a circular course around the entire station.
The fun run portion of the festivities was new for last year’s event.
Following the run, ambulance “touch-a-truck” opportunities, as well as both a bounce house and a candy drop from a ladder truck, will be available.
Safety demonstrations will also be conducted, and the Pennsylvania State Police will stage a helicopter landing.
Food will be available throughout the day. Breakfast will be served from 6:30 to 10 a.m. and will feature sandwiches, along with breakfast bowls and a coffee bar serving lattes and spritzers. Lunch will then be available from 10 a.m. to noon, featuring
pulled pork sandwiches, baked beans and fries.
“They do a phenomenal job with it,” Stoltzfus said of the food committee. “It makes it so nice.”
Runners interested in the race, which will be electronically timed by 2L Race Timing and Services, can register at www.run signup.com/Race/PA/Gap/ WhiteHorseGallop.
Registration forms may also be picked up at the fire company and at local businesses. To receive a free T-shirt, mailed registrations must be postmarked by Wednesday, April 29. Online registrations will close prior to the race. Participation awards will be given to each child who participates in the fun run. Prizes will also be awarded to the top overall male and female runners, and to the top three males and females in nine age groups, which will be 9 and under, 10 to 14, 15 to 19, 20 to 29, 30 to 39, 40 to 49, 50 to 59, 60 to 69, and 70 and above.
Last year, the event had more than 400 runners.
The gallop will feature its signature white horse.
Book
225-page novel that details his experiences with shipwrecks like the DeBraak, L’Auguste, John Dwight, Alva and SS Brother Jonathan. Visit www.captainjoseph amaral.com for purchasing options.
Amaral grew up in Massachusetts, just west of Cape Cod. Like many from his generation, he served in Vietnam right out of high school, earning two Purple Hearts and a Bronze Star for Valor.
He is also a graduate of a scuba school in Key West, Fla., which was operated by Navy SEALs.
“Being a Vietnam veteran, the war wasn’t too popular,” Amaral said. “My dad was giving me a lot of heat, telling me to straighten out my life. I picked up a Skin Diver magazine and saw an (advertisement) for a commercial dive school in Texas.”
Amaral sold everything he had and drove across the country to attend the school. He paid for his own tuition and graduated seventh out of 44 students in his class.
He was working for SubSal, a corporation based out of Reno, Nev., when he found the ring.
“It was the best day of my life,” he said. “I found the ring and didn’t think much of it ... but it turned out the ring is what proved it was the captain. It was a memorial to his brother.”
Amaral’s experiences with the DeBraak, a
Dutch ship that was eventually captured by the British, and other famed shipwrecks were featured in TIME Magazine and a documentary on Discovery Channel. Now, he can say that he chronicled his experiences for himself.
Two copies of Amaral’s work are available to be checked out of the Parkesburg Free Library, 105 West St., Parkesburg. He hopes to hold a book signing at the library in the future, but details have not been finalized.
Amaral has been married to his wife, Christine, for more than 30 years. She attended Harvard Medical School and was also a diver. The pair met on board.
“I wouldn’t let her off the boat until she gave me her phone number,” Amaral said. “Every fortunate moment in life is meaningless unless it is shared with those you love.”
The pair moved to Chester County after Christine got her first job out of school. Amaral finds it funny that a couple of divers wound up in a landlocked state.
“I was like a fish out of water for the first year,” he said.
Amaral is already working on a second book, one he is co-writing with colleague Rob Morris, another former diver. His second book, like the one published in December, will be published by Arnica Press.
Funding Available to Farmers
The Lancaster County Conservation District (LCCD) has funding for Agricultural Best Management Practices (BMPs) for farmers in Lancaster County. The funding is provided through the State Conservation Commission Agriculture Conservation Assistance Program (ACAP).
Lancaster County has $2.3 million in ACAP funds for BMP projects, including grassed waterways, terraces, streambank fencing, stream crossings, barnyards, roof gutters, and manure storage structures. The conservation district provides up to 90% cost share through ACAP toward installation of practices to address existing conservation resource concerns related to manure management and soil loss.
Farmers interested in implementing BMPs on their operation should contact Kent Bitting, LCCD engineer, at 717-874-2540 or visit www.lancaster conservation.org. Projects
Dog Rescue Plans
Open House
Thank
Delaware Valley Golden Retriever Rescue (DVGRR) will hold its monthly open house from 10 a.m. to noon at its Golden Gateway facility, 60 Vera Cruz Road, Reinholds, on Saturday, May 9. The public is invited to meet the golden retrievers and other dogs that are available for adoption. Admission is free. Staff members will be on hand to answer questions, and food will be available for purchase. Photos are not permitted, and attendees should not bring other dogs to this event. For more information, contact info@dvgrr.org or 717-484-4799 or visit https://dvgrr.org/adopt/ monthlyopenhouse/.
for this round of ACAP funding will need to be completed by Saturday, Oct. 31, 2026.
A manure storage structure funded through the ACAP
HOLLOW RIDGE CONSTRUCTION
Fish and Boat
“I really do enjoy interacting with people from all walks of life,” said Desko. “I grew up in a very rural county. I just enjoy the variety of opportunities around here. We all enjoy fishing. We all come from different backgrounds, but we share this love of being on the water. It feels good to introduce people to these sports.”
Housed in a renovated farmhouse, PFBC’s Southeast Region office employs administrative staff and law enforcement or Water Conservation Officers, who enforce fishing and boating regulations, creel limits and water pollution rules, as well as promote water safety and assist in trout stocking operations. The Southeast Region office also processes boat registrations, launch permits and discounted fishing licenses for disabled veterans, and it offers educational materials and opportunities for residents to borrow fishing rods.
“Our general mission is to protect, conserve and enhance the state’s
Mulch • Soil • Stone
aquatic resources and provide fishing and boating opportunities,” said Desko. “We do deliver educational programming in the Southeast Region. We do a lot of introductory programs, like teaching people how to fish and teaching people how to boat.”
The PFBC’s Southeast Region office is operated in one of six geographical regions throughout the commonwealth. The Southeast Region is made up of Lancaster, Berks, Chester, Lehigh, Bucks, Delaware, Schuylkill, Northampton, Montgomery and Philadelphia counties and is home to a host of lakes; streams; and major waterways, like the Schuylkill, Delaware and Conestoga rivers.
The Susquehanna River serves as a boundary between the Southeast and Southcentral regions.
“There’s a diversity of experiences in the Southeast Region,” said Desko. “We have stocked trout streams and wild trout streams. There are also migratory fish; the Delaware River has shad coming up. There are paddling opportunities for whitewater kayaking, as well as gentle paddling on lakes and ponds.”
“In other regions, mountains and backwoods serve as the backdrops,” con -
tinued Desko. “We have plenty of fishing opportunities here, but they may be in places you don’t expect them to be. There are places you can catch monster flathead catfish. There are a lot of places in this region where you can get into some exceptional fishing; it’s just cities serve as the backgrounds instead of mountains.”
An inland state, Pennsylvania boasts a total of more than 86,000 miles of streams and rivers. In the state, nearly 850,000 fishing licenses, 350,000 boat registrations and 150,000 launch permits are sold each year, all of which help fund the PFBC.
The PFBC stocks 3.2 million raised trout in 684 streams and 130 lakes in Pennsylvania annually.
“We do see people across ages, from youth to retirees,” said Desko. “You have a lot of adults who are starting to mentor their children out on the water. When anglers were surveyed, they said the reason they go out is not to catch big fish; it’s to spend time with family and friends, unplug and get away for recreation. They’re looking to spend time in the outdoors and reset their minds.”
For additional information, go to https:// www.pa.gov/agencies/ fishandboat.
DMVA Offers Assistance to Veterans
The Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) announced that its mobile veterans outreach teams are available throughout the state to assist veterans by obtaining information and initiating benefit claim paperwork through the assistance of DMVA accredited veterans service officers.
The DMVA brings essential services directly to veterans and can be booked online for community events such as fairs and festivals. The vans offer no-cost, on-site assistance with veterans benefits.
Over the past year, outreach efforts supported 468 events, with 8,471 veteran interactions, more than 1,000 of which were with female veterans. Additionally, the DMVA outreach team worked with more than 2,800 veteran family members and caregivers. These teams also coordinated events
with county directors of Veterans Affairs, veteran service organizations, and local and state officials to maximize awareness and attendance.
A wide range of federal, state, and county benefits are available to qualified veterans and their families. These benefits include service-connected disability compensation, pensions, Veterans Affairs health care benefits, burial benefits, education benefits, vocational rehabilitation, veterans homes, and long-term care.
For more details on how to request a van for a community event, visit www .dmva.pa.gov/Veterans /Miscellaneous/Pages/ MobileVeteransOutreach Vans.aspx.
Southeast Region outreach and education coordinator Andy Desko prepares for a PFBC event.
Why Wash Your Car?
Taking care of a vehicle involves more than just maintaining the equipment under the hood. There are a number of steps involved in keeping a car or truck in top form, and that includes regular car washes.
Car washes keep a vehicle shiny and clean, which can help it look good while sitting in the driveway or cruising the highway. However, regular car washes are more than cosmetic.
• Protect from the sun: A car that is routinely and properly washed and waxed is less vulnerable to damage from the sun’s ultraviolet rays.
• Extend the life of paint: Dirt and debris can build up on the paint surface and eventually lead to scratches and other damage. Bird droppings and sap can be corrosive. Washing will help remove grime and protect the paint in the process.
• Preserve the vehicle’s value: Drivers who plan to sell or trade in their vehicles in the future should realize that a well-maintained car can bring in as much as 20% more for above-average condition, according to Kelley Blue Book. Maintaining a clean and shiny vehicle can protect its longterm value.
• Remove salt: Drivers who live near the ocean or in areas where roads are salted in the winter to melt snow may have cars with high salt corrosion rates. Unless it’s washed off frequently, salt can take its toll, leading to damage.
• Improve fuel efficiency: Drivers have felt pain in their wallets at the fuel pump in recent years. Dirty cars may be less aerodynamic and less fuel efficient as a result. Keeping a car clean may improve its fuel efficiency.
• Maintain the interior: Car washes are not only about the exterior. Keeping a clean and tidy interior can help improve the air quality inside of the vehicle and prolong the life of upholstery, mats, and interior components.
Car washes should be a routine part of vehicle maintenance. Professional car washes tend to be more eco-friendly than washing a car at home, so drivers are urged to investigate their service plans and features.
Sheriff’s Office Appoints Creighton as Captain
The Chester County Sheriff’s Office has announced the appointment of Kevin Creighton as captain. Drawing on his more than 30 years of law enforcement experience, he will serve in a command role supporting the Sheriff’s Office’s operational and administrative functions.
Creighton has come to the Sheriff’s Office follow
ing a distinguished career with the Pennsylvania State Police, where he mostly served as captain and director of operational training with the Bureau of Training and Education. In that role, he oversaw statewide training operations; supervised instructional staff across multiple facilities; and managed critical areas, including
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
IMPACT CHURCH: IMPACTING lives with the Hope of Jesus Christ. Sunday Gatherings at 9 am & 11 am. 101 East 1st Ave., Parkesburg. Pastor Mike Bailey. 610-857-3887. Visit us online at WWW.IMPACTPA.CHURCH
KINGS WAY INDEPENDENT CHURCH: 55 Morris Lane (Sadsburyville) Coatesville, PA 19320. Sunday Service 11am Children’s Church 11am. Where the Peace of God is Found Pastor Dave Harmer 610-2465749.
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
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
use-of-force review, emergency vehicle incident analysis, and personnel accountability. Throughout his career, Creighton has held key leadership positions at every rank as he rose from a trooper to a corporal, sergeant, lieutenant, and captain. He has supervised large-scale patrol operations, led high-risk incident responses, and directed academy training programs responsible for developing and maintaining operational standards
across the agency. He has also served on multiple policy and promotional committees, contributing to agency standards, curriculum development, and organizational governance. Creighton holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Temple University. He has been recognized by the Pennsylvania State Police commissioner for leadership and service during major operations, including national level-security events and critical incident responses.
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., Parkesburg; 610-857-9135 Sunday service 10:30 AM Rev. Dr. Mark Stauffer pbc103west@gmail.com
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
ST. CHRISTOPHER’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH
Where everyone can find a place to belong! 116 Lancaster Pike, Oxford. Sunday Holy Communion Services at 8:00 & 10:00 AM; 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. Youth Group & a variety of adult groups. Dana J. Smith, 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
Capt. Kevin Creighton
See You at the Fulton
BY JEFF FALK
Is it the inspirational beauty of the venue? Might be.
Is it the storied history of the initiative? Could be.
Is it the quality of the shows being staged there? Should be.
Or maybe, just maybe, the reason the iconic Fulton Theatre is a landmark and destination in Lancaster County is the fun enjoyed there and the memories made there. It is a living testament to the universal appeal of the performing arts.
“I hope people think of us as one of the biggest Broadway houses in the state or the country, offering performances at Lancaster prices,” said Marc Robin, who’s been the executive artistic producer at the Fulton Theatre for eight years. “You don’t have to go outside of the county to see wonderful theater. I think the Fulton has an incredible relationship with the community. I hope people think we are doing it at the highest level.”
The Fulton Theatre, a national historic landmark located at 12 N. Prince St., Lancaster, features Victorian architecture, 13,000 square feet of operational space and ample lobby spaces, and it houses board rooms and administrative offices. The Fulton is actually three theaters rolled into one, including a 650seat main theater, a 100seat theater and a 70-seat theater, as well as a 135-seat multi-use hall.
The stage inside the Fulton’s main theater is 32 feet wide, 39 feet deep and 29 feet tall.
The Fulton Theatre is the oldest continually operating
theater in the United States.
“The arts community in Lancaster County is unbelievably vibrant,” said Robin. “We are blessed to have so many organizations producing every kind of art. Lancaster County is exploding with creative talent, and we’re really lucky to be a part of it.”
“My goal, when I’m programming, is to find something that will affect someone,” continued Robin.
“We want to elicit responses like, ‘I get that. I loved that.’ Or ‘That’s one of the shows I always wanted to see.’ We want people to see quality and make our patrons proud that we exist.”
The Fulton stages hundreds of performances and shows each year - plays, musicals and concerts. The theater typically offers six shows on its main stage annually, and each show runs for an average of four to five weeks.
As part of its 173rd season, the Fulton Theatre will feature “Hairspray” from Friday, April 10, through Saturday, May 2.
On average, nearly 180,000 people visit the Fulton Theatre each year.
“The arts community encourages everyone to dream, it gives choices to topics of conversation and it improves our lives,” said Robin, “and, most importantly, the arts allow a community to grow. That’s any arts organization. If you put on a play, you’re improving people’s lives.”
The Fulton’s reputation and standing in the arts community allow it to attract performers, actors and stars from Broadway, national tours and major cities. Onstage magic occurs when professionals
interact with local talent.
“Our talent comes from all over the country, and they come here to be part of our community that they’ve heard about,” said Robin. “We also rely on our local community and our homegrown talent, which starts with our education program and outreach. The Fulton, as an organization, concentrates on growing deep, deep, deep and wide roots in our community.”
In 1852, Fulton Hall, named for Robert Fulton, Lancaster’s steam engine pioneer, was built on the Prince Street site of a pre-revolutionary jail as a meeting place for the community. The Fulton has endured a number of changes over the years, including a repurposing as a movie house.
The Fulton Theatre was closed for a time, and during the 1960s “The Grand Old Lady of Prince Street” was saved from demolition by a group of concerned citizens. But it was a $9.5 million capital campaign project in the mid-1990s that propelled The Fulton to its current success.
“I think our past always creates our present,” said Robin. “In the past, (the Fulton) was a touring house, and it was a Vaudeville house. In its heyday, it was one of the most sought-after places to come.”
“In the early 2000s, I think a lot of people were coming here because the building was beautiful,” continued Robin. “Kind of like, ‘Oh, there’s a play on stage.’ Now I think they’re coming because of what’s going on artistically.”
For additional information, go to www.the fulton.org.
White Horse Fire and EMS Company has answered over 25,000 emergency calls and was established in 1913. The company primarily serves Salisbury Township but also answers calls in outer parts of Leacock and East Earl townships.
Funds raised by this year’s races will help the fire company in the second phase of its building project, which includes dismantling and rebuilding the existing kitchen and dining room, as well as connecting the new structure to the in-progress fire apparatus
that will house two engine trucks, a tanker and a utility truck.
The estimated cost for the second phase of the project is $1.65 million. The third phase will house three ambulances, offices for the EMS division and overnight accommodations for White Horse’s volunteer providers.
Stoltzfus said that the committee hopes to raise $50,000 through this year’s gallop - over half of last year’s figure.
“We have exceptional community support,” he said. “We try and do our part in making it worth -
NOTICE of PUBLIC SALE
Gap Self Storage, LLC
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
80 Route 41 Beginning at 10 a.m.
Gap, PA 17527 717-442-3030
Gap Self Storage, LLC, in order to satisfy its statutory lien pursuant to 73 P.S. 1901 et seq., will sell at PUBLIC SALE all the personal property stored in its facility, placed by:
Unit #542 stored by: Luis Rosso
Unit #205 stored by: Kimberly A. Harper
Unit #171 stored by: Joseph Stringer
Unit #355 stored by: Bryant Fry
Unit #LS47 stored by: Bryant Fry
Unit #RV131 stored by: Tracie Jones-Greene
Unit #137 stored by: Gema Sabo
Unit #433 stored by: Theodore Alexander
Unit #124 stored by: Allen D. King
Gap Self Storage, LLC Wednesday, May 20, 2026
845 Houston Run Drive At the conclusion of 10 a.m. Gap, PA 17527 auction listed above 717-442-3030
Gap Self Storage, LLC, in order to satisfy its statutory lien pursuant to 73 P.S. 1901 et seq., will sell at PUBLIC SALE all the personal property stored in its facility, placed by:
Unit #088H stored by: Frank Nieves
Unit #228H stored by: Kweeta L. Togbah
Unit #237H stored by: Bryant A. Fry
Conditions: All units will be sold by competitive bidding to the highest bidder. Bids will be taken only for each unit in its entirety. Payment must be made by money order, certified check or cash only. No personal checks. All goods must be removed from the unit within 24 hrs. Payment is due immediately upon acceptance of bid. Owner reserves the right to bid at Public Sale, reject any or all bids, and cancel or adjourn the sale. F127750
while for people to show up.”
Sponsorships for the run are available, ranging from bronze to elite packages that include opportunities to advertise at the event. More information about sponsorship opportunities can be found by visiting www.runsignup.com/Race/ WhiteHorseGallop/Page-1.
Grow PA Grant Program Opens Applications
The Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) is accepting student applications for the 2026-27
Grow Pennsylvania Scholarship Grant Program, more commonly known as the Grow PA Grant.
More than 11,000 applications from 162 schools were received for the current 2025-26 program year, and nearly 5,700 recipients were awarded the grant from 131 participating schools.
The Grow PA Grant Program offers grants of up to $5,000 per year for in-state students who attend college in Pennsylvania, pursue a degree in an in-demand occupation, and agree to work in that occupation in Pennsylvania after graduation.
Grant recipients will be
required to work in Pennsylvania for 12 months for each year they receive the grant; failure to meet this requirement will result in the grant converting to a loan that must be repaid.
A student can receive a Grow PA Grant for a maximum of four academic years. Current recipients must reapply for the grant for each of those four years.
There are more than 460 eligible programs of study or majors that lead to in-demand occupations in a variety of fields, such as agriculture, business, education, computer science, STEM, nursing, allied health, and criminal justice. The application and a list of eligible programs of study or majors can be found at www .pheaa.org/growpa.
PUBLIC AUCTION
COUNTRY BRICK 3 BDRM. RANCHER - 2 CAR GAR. GARAGE/SHOP BLDG. - HORSE BARN w/4 STALLS 5 ACRES m/l OXFORD - JENNERSVILLE AREA
THURSDAY, MAY 28 • 4 P.M.
3697
PLACE AN AD
Hardscaping, Mowing. Female Driver also Welcome! Must be eligible of pulling trailer w/Pickup Truck. ATGLEN, PA. Call for interview at 610-597-7342
IMMEDIATE HELP WANTED!!! We are in need of a permanent PT
well-located home with strong potential. Whether you’re looking to update, invest, or enjoy country living, this property provides a solid foundation in a highly sought-after area. Don’t miss the opportunity to purchase this Chester County property with scenic views and excellent southern exposure. OPEN HOUSE: Thurs(s)., May 7th & 14th 5-7 pm, Sat(s)., May 9th & 16th 1-4 pm.
Christ Taylor AU# 5421
717-371-1915
TERMS AND CONDITIONS: $20,000 down payment at auction. Settlement on or before July 31, 2026. 2% Transfer tax to be paid by the buyer. Real estate taxes prorated from settlement day. Annual property taxes: $5916. Bridge loans & Broker Participation available (preregistration required, contact auctioneer).
Wilmer Martin AU# 6386 717-333-4881 Elvin Stoltzfus AU# 6393 610-333-5447
Sellers: David C Neal
Atty: Ashley Glick - Glick, Goodley, Deibler & Fanning
Rancher w/1680 SF, eat-in kitchen, dining rm., 3 bdrms., 1½ baths, family/breezeway rm., full bsmt. w/daylight entrance, LP gas HW heat sys., central AC, 2 car gar. 22x28, gar./shop bldg. 24x48 w/2 horse stalls, storage, lean-to, 12x50 horse barn w/4 horse stalls, 5 ACRES m/l w/3½ ACRES fenced pasture, lawn, garden area. Zoned R-4/Village Residential. After 30 years, Yarnall Estate serious to sell. House needs TLC/upgraded. Solid dwl., great setting & convenient country location. Minutes to Cochranville, Oxford, Jennersville, Rt. 10 & Rt. 1. Oxford schs. Personal inspection by appointment or open house Sat., May 9, 16 & 23 from 1 to 4 PM. For more detailed information, visit www.klinekreidergood.com Financing, deposit or bridge loan available to qualified buyer. Call Randal V. Kline 717-733-1006 (Lender NMLS ID #834368 & #384426)
Randal V. Kline
Roy E. Good, Jr.
Aaron Z. Nolt
Curvin M. Horning 717-733-1006 Lic. #499, 2116, 5064, 3956
Dean M. Yarnall Estate William H. Yarnall, Exc. 610-283-3975
www.klinekreidergood.com
Directions: From Compass take Compass Rd. South to property on the left.
Lawn & Garden
RAILROAD TIES FOR SALE
#1. Delivery Available GAP REPAIR, 717-442-4781 ext. 2
Pets
JACK RUSSELL TERRIER PUPPIES, farm raised, vet checked, shots, dewormed, $150. 717-529-2011
MAREMMANO ITALIAN SHEPHERD
1.5YO F, farm raised, FREE to a good home. Call: Elam King 717-201-6114
Miscellaneous
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Miscellaneous
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DONATE YOUR CAR to Veterans Today! Help and Support our Veterans. Fast - FREE pick up. 100% tax deductible. Call 1-800245-0398.
HOME BREAK-INS TAKE less than 60 seconds. Don’t wait! Protect your family, home, assets now for as little as 70¢/day! 1-833-890-1262.
INFLATION AT 40-YEAR highs. Interest rates are up. Credit cards. medical bills. car loans. Have $10k+ in debt? Call National Debt Relief and find out how to pay off your debt for much less than you owe! Free quote: 1-844-955-4930.
JACUZZI BATH REMODEL can install a new, custom bath or shower in as little as 1-day. Limited time, waiving all installation costs! Additional terms apply. Subject to change & vary by dealer. Ends Soon. 1-844-501-3208.
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NEED CASH QUICKLY? We buy houses in any condition. Get a fair cash offer within 24 hours! Call today. Liz Buys Houses: 1-833-359-4707
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PREPARE FOR POWER outages todayGenerac Home Standby Generator. Receive free 5-Yr. warranty w/qualifying purchase. 1-855-948-6176 to schedule free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move.
PROFESSIONAL LAWN SERVICE: Fertilization, weed control, seeding, aeration & mosquito control. Free quote. Ask about first application special! 1-833-860-0811
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NATIONAL
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PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED AD ONLINE AT TOWNLIVELY.COM
SEASONAL
COAL/WOOD/PELLET STOVES & Inserts, New & Refurbished. Over 300 models in stock. $100-$800 & up. Buy/Sell/Trade. Call 717-577-6640
LOST & FOUND
FOUND AN ITEM? Place a FREE 15 word ad in your local issue to locate the owner of your found item. 1-800-428-4211 READ YOUR AD THE FIRST WEEK IT APPEARS This publication will not be responsible for more than one incorrect insertion of any advertisement.
SERVICES RENDERED
A LOCAL HANDYMAN
Plumbing • Electrical • Custom Carpentry Lic. & Ins. Call/Text 610-547-7789
AMISH MOVING COMPANY AMISH CLEANOUTS Will move households (will go out of state). Fair prices for Clean Outs of Attics, Basements. 717-442-3301
ANDY’S DRYWALL
Interior Remodeling, Hanging, Finishing, Framing, Painting, Basements, Additions, Insured. PA 022669. 717-587-4102
Asphalt Needs by JACK COOPER TAR & CHIP
HALF THE PRICE of Blacktop! • Farm Lanes • Parking Lots • Secondary Roads • Sealcoating • Patching • Crack Filling 717-494-1635
BOOT ROAD TREE SERVICE Expert tree removal, stump grinding & Trimming. Fully Insured 610-656-5880
COMPLETE PROPERTY MAINTENANCE LANDSCAPING DESIGN INSTALLATION/MAINTENANCE FLUID FILM • FIREWOOD Mulching • Tree/Shrub Planting/Trimming Stump Grinding • Seeding • Excavation FREE ESTIMATES • FULLY INSURED Specializing in Honesty & Integrity on Every Job! Rosslawnservice.com 717-468-3632
DECKS & PORCHES SUNROOMS • SCREENED ROOMS • ETC. 22 Years Exp. � 717-687-0899
INTERIOR/EXTERIOR PAINTING Call for a FREE ESTIMATE: BRYAN 223-231-8716
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 12/27/26.) Call 1-844-826-2535.
LOGGING, L O G G
N G , TREE WORK & FIREWOOD
717-925-9032
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PAINTING DONE RIGHT Int/Ext. Res/Com
Detailed custom painting. 33yrs. exp/Refs. All related services, etc. 717-286-5464
PLUMBING
FREE ESTIMATES Lic. & Ins. • 610-547-7789
ROOFING ~ Amish Quality 10 yr. workmanship warranty. Lic. & Ins. EDGE VIEW ROOFING, 717-940-0501
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 and $1,600 Off for a limited time! Call today! Financing available. Call Safe Step 1-833-356-1954.
STUMP GRINDING SERVICES 717-989-7938, leave message.
TONE’S SOLID CONTRUCTION
Remodel • Basements • Additions Decks Fences, etc. We do it all! Insd./PA176621 | 717-984-3865
Tree Trimming & Removal Land/Brush Clearing • Stump Grinding Since 1996 • 717-768-0114 SUNNYSLOPETREESERVICE.COM
WATER DAMAGE CLEANUP & restoration: A small amount of water can lead to major damage in your home. Our trusted professionals do repairs to protect your family & home value! 1-833-887-0117. Have zip code ready!
SINGING SPRING FOODS
