PHOTO PROVIDED A group of Clinton County residents rally with founders Eileen Stevens Parke and Deborah Tonken at Triangle Park on Sept. 6.

The Make America Kind Again (MAKA) movement made a special stop in Lock Haven this month, bringing a message of kindness, cooperation, and civility. Co-founders Eileen Stevens Parke of West Virginia and Deborah Tonken of Maine met with local residents during several events and conversations throughout the community.

Both women are concerned that today’s political divisions are creating a negative climate, especially for children who learn how to behave by watching the adults around them. Through their books, podcasts, website, and in-person visits, they encourage people to choose compassion and respect in daily life and public dialogue.

During their stay, the two leaders:

— Spoke with members of a local church group

— Shared information at the STEP Senior Center

— Led a rally at Triangle Park

— Joined community members for an information-sharing dinner

The visit was made possible through a local connection, Brad Curtis, and both women were warmly welcomed by the community at all events.

The co-founders are internationally recognized for their work. Eileen was recently honored as “An Excellent Woman of Peace” by Pathways to Peace, a United Nations NGO affiliate, and is an author and speaker. Deborah, also an author, has won international awards for her books on family values.

For more about MAKA, visit makanow.org or 12habits4allofus.org, or watch their YouTube interview.