Sunday School Baseball League members, officials, and friends joined in a combined dinner and testimonial Wednesday evening at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church parish house to honor the championship team of that church and to also give recognition to John H. Bower, league organizer and supervisor since 1922.

There were 65 present at the dinner and as many more guests, including St. Mark’s Boys Club members, who came to witness the American League’s sound film on baseball technique.

The testimonial is the first formal event for the parish house since its dedication in June.

The pennant winners were presented sweater awards by W. Herbert Poff, league official, and Mr. Bower was the recipient of a cash gift as a token of appreciation for his many years of service to the organization. J. Mark Good, president of the league made the presentation.

The Rev. J. Ray Houser, pastor of St. Mark’s acted as toastmaster and introduced President Good, who in turn, introduced officials of the league, umpires, and managers. Major C.E. Whipple, who was instrumental in gaining the use of Battery Field for the league. Elmer L. Schuyler, managing editor of the Gazette and Bulletin and veteran baseball enthusiast, Wally Novak, former Williamsport Grays shortstop, now visiting the city and other guests.

Mr. Bower gave a historical review of the league, berated the lack of sufficient playing facilities in the city. He blamed the scarcity of fields for a drop of interest for the league, which at one time numbered 27 entries.

He also reviewed high spots in the league activities since 1922, expressing appreciation to the many men present for their efforts in the organization’s behalf during its existence.

Mr. Bower singled out Howard W. Gair, veteran umpire for a major portion of the credit for the success of the league. Mr. Gair rated as the peer of collegiate and independent arbiters in this section of the state, has been the dean of Sunday School League umpires for years. He has presided over rule discussions for league members and has been instrumental in assisting many younger men with hints and suggestions for proper officiating techniques.