EAST PALESTINE – John Conkle joined the staff at Sprinklz On Top shortly after the restaurant opened five years ago, and he’s been an integral part of the operation since. He works five days a week washing dishes, mopping floors, taking out trash and doing other essential jobs to keep the bustling restaurant clean and tidy.

Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities and Blue Sky Employment Consultants assisted Conkle with finding the job. These organizations faded shortly after Conkle started the job, and the County Board of Developmental Disabilities has provided regular check-ins since that time.

Conkle said he loves his job and he’s proud to earn a steady paycheck for the work he does. This month, he received a Longevity Award from the Columbiana County Board of Developmental Disabilities after he celebrated his five-year employment milestone.

Teresa Sprowls, Sprinklz On Top owner, praised Conkle for his exemplary work ethic and dedication to doing his job well.

“We don’t ever want to lose John,” she said. “He’s helpful in every way. He’s a hard worker. And he’s family.”

Conkle has also achieved another important life goal by buying a home that he shares with another person. He takes great pride in home ownership, and especially enjoys living near town where he can walk to and from the downtown area.

A sports enthusiast from an early age, Conkle is an East Palestine Bulldogs fan through and through. He and his roommate held the team banner at the beginning of the basketball games for many years and he still follows the basketball team each season.

His love for sports began in school when he played for the Robert Bycroft School Comets basketball team. He also enjoys professional sports and follows the Pittsburgh teams, noting that even though East Palestine is generally Cleveland Browns territory, he wears his black and gold proudly. Although this year, he was pulling for the Eagles to win the Super Bowl.

Conkle grew up on a farm outside of East Liverpool. His family home sat on the historic property where outlaw Pretty Boy Floyd was killed on Oct. 22, 1934. Conkle said his late father, Harry Conkle, was a child at the time.

History aside, Conkle has fond memories growing up on the farm where his family grew potatoes, sunflowers, corn, wheat and oats. They also raised pigs and cows and kept a

few horses. He cites driving around the farm on a tractor or his dad’s old truck as memorable parts of growing up, but enjoyed riding his bike more than anything. He said he misses the farm but he’s happy where he is.

Board of Developmental Disabilities Superintendent William Devon has known Conkle and his family for many years.

“His parents were very proud of John and what he could do. They wanted him to be the most successful person he could be. And he achieved that,” Devon said.

Anyone wanting more information about employment services and other opportunities available through the Columbiana County Board of Developmental Disabilities may call 330-424-7788.