American poet, memoirist, and civil rights activist Maya Angelou is credited with saying, "Be present in all things and thankful for all things." For the fall season, employees at the Quarryville Borough have planned an essay writing contest for children where participants will explain why they are thankful for living in the Quarryville Borough.

This past year, the borough has hosted a variety of contests for Quarryville residents. Most recently, 36 children participated in a sidewalk chalk art competition. "We decided to plan these events to boost morale and get the community to come together in spite of what's going on," explained Michelle Evans, administrative assistant for the Quarryville Borough. Evans noted that these community contests are something the borough plans to continue.

For the essay writing contest, there will be three age groups: kindergarten through second grade; third grade through fifth grade; and sixth grade through eighth grade. First-, second-, and third-place prizes will be awarded in each age group. First-place winners will receive a $100 Visa gift card, second-place winners will receive a $50 Visa gift card, and third-place winners will receive a $25 Visa gift card.

Evans noted that she is thankful for living in Quarryville because she loves the community. "People are so willing to help," she said. "If something happens, you can always count on this community. No one's going to tell you no. It's just a close-knit community."

Only Quarryville residents may enter the essay writing contest and must email Evans at evansm@quarryvilleborough.com for entry paperwork. All entries are due by Friday, Nov. 19. Participants can email their finished essays to Evans with their name, address, and grade. Entries can be typed or handwritten.

Evans mentioned that the borough would be unable to host the contest without its sponsors: Dewald's Funeral & Cremation Services, Inc.; Susquehanna Ford; Alltypes Insurance & Financial Services, Inc.; Rhoadstar Tire; RTW Landscape Supply; Agway; and Paul Risk Construction.

For more information about the Quarryville Borough, visit https://quarryvilleborough.com.