Salem Branch 654 of the Loyal Christian Benevolent Association (LCBA) was recently presented with the BROOM Award by the national LCBA office. Rose Bedell, right, president of Salem Branch 654, is shown receiving the Branch Recognition of Outstanding Merit (BROOM) Award from Samantha Toscano of Erie, Pa., national LCBA branch manager. Only one of six LCBA branches across the U.S. to earn platinum award status, the 28 Salem branch members performed over 5,000 hours of volunteer and community service hours during 2024. The platinum award earned the local group $2,500 with which to continue supporting the Christina House, Sophia House, St. Paul School, Salem Food Pantry, the Banquet and other Salem non-profits. For information about Salem LCBA Branch 654, call 330-337-8353. New members are welcome. (Submitted photo)