As part of its homecoming festivities, Octorara Junior-Senior High School held its Hall of Fame induction ceremony on Oct. 4.

Richard F. Klingler, a member of the Class of 1994, and Joseph Yurick, a member of the Class of 2000, were inducted into the Octorara Hall of Fame. Allison Hess Thaler, a member of the Class of 1997, was inducted into the Octorara Athletic Hall of Fame.

Welcoming those in attendance was senior class president Devon Carroll, who encouraged her fellow students to view the Hall of Fame plaques displayed in the school hallways. "Stop for a moment and read the stories under the pictures, and you can find the significant and timeless contributions that Octorara alumni have made in the world," she stated.

Klingler, who is a furniture maker and member of Keystone Valley Fire Department, where he previously served as chief, was introduced by student Marc DiGregorio. At Octorara, Klinger was an accomplished athlete in both soccer and basketball, and he qualified for districts in track and field. He served the community as an EMT and firefighter and received a Clinical Save award from Chester County Emergency Services for saving someone's life when the person had a heart attack.

"I am truly thankful and surprised for this award," he said regarding the Hall of Fame honor, adding, "Keep on learning, have a good work ethnic and proceed to further your career with whatever craft or field you decide to take."

Yurick, who was introduced by student J.D. Mickel, enlisted in the U.S. Army after graduation and served in Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom, and he operated the Patriot missile system. He spent time as a truck driver and in sales before becoming the owner of his own business, JDog Junk Removal & Hauling Southern Lancaster County. In 2018, he was the recipient of the Business Leader of the Year award from Parkesburg Area Business Association for his work in helping and hiring local veterans.

"No matter what path you are on today, making good choices can turn your life around," Yurick told the students.

Thaler, who was introduced by student Chase Decker, played field hockey and basketball and was a member of the track and field team. She earned 10 varsity letters throughout her high school career, was captain of all three teams and was named an All-Star in the Southern Chester County League in all three sports. She was a member of the Millersville University track and field team, where she won many honors. She returned to coach Octorara middle school and high school track and field this past season and is a volunteer at the Octorara YMCA, where she coaches basketball.

"Seniors, you are on the cusp of adulthood," she stated. "The lessons and experiences you gain will shape your post-high school plans. Make every moment count and give back as often as you can."

Closing remarks were provided by Jonathan Propper, principal. "I hope to see some of you (students) appear on this stage someday being inducted into our Hall of Fame," he said. "Given the talent and the intelligence in this room, we will."

The Octorara Chorale was also on hand at the event to sing the school's alma mater and "The Star-Spangled Banner."