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Zion’s Reformed news
The Rev. Rodger Snyder, pastor, will preach at the 9 a.m. Sunday worship service at Zion’s Reformed United Church of Christ, Ashland. Acolyte — Erika Snyder; lay readers — Scott Neumeister and Danielle Snyder; greeters — Gerald and Paula Kodack; ushers — Debra Leib and Jason Kessler.
Good Shepherd news
The 11th Sunday afterr Pentecost worship service will be celebrated at 9 a.m. at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Ashland. Sermon — The Rev. Dana Heckman-Beil, pastor; worship assistant — Terry Leitzel; lay reader — Frank Rice; ushers — Donald and Heather Lahr; acolyte — Brad Uholik; crucifer — Vanessa Burns; greeter — Heather Lahr; nursery — Megan Lentes.
St. John’s Episcopal news
The Rev. Dolores E. Evans will preach and celebrate the Holy Eucharist at the 9 a.m. 11th Sunday after Pentecost worship service at St. John’s Episcopal Church, Ashland.
Ashland Rotary news
HEGINS — Continuing a tradition during the summer months, the Ashland Area Rotary Club traveled to the “Valley” for a joint meeting with the Hegins-Valley View Rotary Club. The Ashland group look forward to visiting with members of the nearby club.
Two Boy Scouts were present to enlighten us on the requirements to attain the rank of Eagle Scout. Brock Klinger is working toward his Eagle award with a project to design, construct and erect a sign at a nursing home. Daniel Walter has attained Eagle Scout rank with his project to send packages of personal items to service personnel in Iraq and Afghanistan. The fine young men described their efforts in planning and leading their projects.
A special guest was Nelson Texira of Sao Paulo, Brazil. He had been a Rotary exchange student during his senior year in high school and had returned to the area for the 25th year class reunion. He spoke of his current position and commented on the impact that the year as an exchange student had in developing him for his future career.
Many thanks go to our hosts for the delicious meal and great camaraderie. We will attempt to return the favor when they travel to Ashland for the return visit on Tuesday, August 19.
CRUISE CAR RAFFLE TICKETS — Members continue to sell tickets for the Chevrolet Corvette to be awarded Aug. 10 as part of the Great Pottsville Car Cruise. Ticket returns, including unsold tickets, should be made by July 30 to Jerome Schmoltze.
CHICKEN DINNER AND BAND CONCERT — The Cressona Band will be in concert Wednesday, Aug. 13, at Eureka Park. Prior to the concert, the club will hold its annual chicken dinner at the concession stand at the Little League field from 3 to 7 p.m. Club members are selling tickets at $8 for each dinner, which includes three pieces of chicken, baked potato, green beans, cole slaw, dessert and a beverage.
Club members should contact Diane Heidlebaugh to sign up for dessert or beverage donations for the dinner.
CHRISTMAS SHOW AND DINNER — The club is sponsoring a bus trip to the American Music Theatre Sunday, Nov. 9, to see the Christmas show. This trip was scheduled for last year, but was cancelled due to an ice storm. In a most unusual but generous practice, the theater, restaurant and bus owners gave a rain check and have permitted the club to reschedule for this year. Anyone who made a reservation last year is assured a seat, but is asked to confirm their reservation with Connie Wydra as soon as possible. The bus will leave at noon and we will be attending the show at 3 p.m. followed by dinner at the Plain and Fancy Restaurant. There are a few available seats for additional persons that can be reserved by calling Wydra. The cost is $66 per adult, which includes the bus, show, dinner, and gratuities.
LOCAL AREA FOOD PANTRY — The suggested items for donation to the local food pantry for the current quarter are non-perishable breakfast items such as pancake mix, cereal and oatmeal.
UPCOMING EVENTS
• Saturday, July 26 — District 7370 membership seminar in Lewisburg.
• Tuesday, July 29 — The club will host representatives from the Ashland Public Library and the Literacy Council for Schuylkill County who will receive checks from the proceeds of the annual pet walk.
• Tuesday, Aug. 5 — Monthly business meeting.
• Wednesday, Aug. 13 — Chicken dinner and band concert at Eureka Park. No meeting on Aug. 12.
• Tuesday, Aug. 19 — The Hegins-Valley View Rotary Club will travel to Ashland for a joint meeting.
Butler Township
Church of the Nazarene news
LAVELLE — The Lavelle Church of the Nazarene, Route 901, announced the following services and activities:
• Sunday, July 27: 9:30 a.m., Pastor Andy Newman will preach. Nursery care is provided. Children’s church is available. Sunday school classes for all ages will be held at 11 a.m.
• Wednesday, July 30: 6:30 p.m., Women’s Celebrate Recovery Step Group meeting; 7 p.m., Celebrate Recovery Share Groups meeting; adult Bible study; children and teen activities.
Frackville
St. Michael church news
Divine Liturgies will be celebrated by the Rev. Archpriest John M. Fields, pastor, in St. Michael the Archangel Ukrainian Catholic Church, West Oak Street, Frackville, on Saturday, July 26, at 4 p.m. and Sunday, July 27, at 9:15 a.m., changed from 10:30 a.m. due to Ukrainian Seminary Day.
The Holy Mystery of Reconciliation, the sacrament of penance (confessions), will be heard on Saturday beginning at 3:30 p.m. and on Sunday before the Divine Liturgy.
Metropolitan-Archbishop Stefan Soroka and the clergy and faithful of the South Anthracite Protopresbytery will participate in the 11 a.m. Divine Liturgy at St. Nicholas Picnic Grove, Route 901, Primrose, to begin the 74th Ukrainian Seminary Day observance.
For more information, call 874-1101.
Zion Lutheran news
The Rev. Oliver Brown will preach on \”Kingdom of Heaven\” at the 10 a.m. 11th Sunday after Pentecost Holy Communion service at Zion Lutheran Church, Frackville. Worship assistant — Donald Dillman; greeters — Olive Bruchak and Pat Dolan; acolytes — Kayla Derr and Tyler Dean; bell ringer — Timothy Hahn; ushers — Paul Dean, Tyler Dean, Eileen and Norbert Turnbach; altar servers — Joan Demansky, Grace Palina and Linda Pusavage; counters — Carol Nicholas and Lloyd Hampton.
Christ Episcopal news
The Rev. Dolores E. Evans will preach and celebrate the Holy Eucharist at the 11 a.m. 11th Sunday after Pentecost worship service at Christ Episcopal Church, Frackville.
First United Methodist news
The 11th Sunday after Pentecost worship service will be celebrated at 9:30 a.m. at First United Methodist Church, Frackville. Diane DeYoe will give a sermon entitled “Picture This.” Acolyte — Jonathan Liem; usher in charge — Mark Matthews; greeters — Strollis family; liturgist — Roy Mengel; nursery worker — Blaire Thomas.
Gilberton
St. John the Baptist church news
MAIZEVILLE — Due to the 74th annual Ukrainian Seminary Day observance, Divine Liturgy will be celebrated at 8 a.m. Sunday, July 27, at 8 a.m. by the Rev. Archpriest John M. Fields in St. John the Baptist Ukrainian Catholic Church, Main Street, Maizeville.
The Holy Mystery of Reconciliation, the sacrament of penance (confessions), will be heard on Sunday before the Divine Liturgy.
Metropolitan-Archbishop Stefan Soroka and the clergy and faithful of the South Anthracite Protopresbytery will participate in the 11 a.m. Divine Liturgy at St. Nicholas Picnic Grove, Route 901, Primrose, to begin the 74th Ukrainian Seminary Day observance.
For more information, call 874-1101.
Girardville
Girardville Methodist news
The 11th Sunday after Pentecost worship service will be celebrated at 11 a.m. at Girardville United Methodist Church. Ron Dixon will speak on “The Big Question.”
Gordon
Upcoming Gordon meetings
The Gordon Borough Vacancy Board will meet at 6 p.m. Monday, July 28, at the Gordon Municipal Building to fill a vacant seat on borough council. The vacancy board meeting will be immediately followed by a special meeting of Gordon Borough Council, which will be held for the purpose of the opening of trash collection bids.
The regular monthly meeting of Gordon Borough Council scheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 5, has been rescheduled. It will be held at 7 p.m. Monday, Aug. 4, at the municipal building.
All meeting are open to the public.
Gowen City
St. Paul’s Reformed news
Pastor Jerry Schlegel will preach at the Sunday worship service at 9 a.m. at St. Paul’s Reformed United Church of Christ, Gowen City. The message is “Contented with God’s Blessing.” Scriptures — Proverbs 3:1-8 and 1 Corinthians 7:17-24. Organist — Cliff Artman.
Helfenstein
Christ’s Reformed news
Pastor Jerry Schlegel will preach at the Sunday worship service at 10:15 a.m. at Christ’s Reformed United Church of Christ, Helfenstein. The message is “Contented with God’s Blessing.” Scriptures — Proverbs 3:1-8 and 1 Corinthians 7:17-24. Worship assistant — Dorene Choffel; organist — Jeff Haas.
Here and There
Parish festival
SHAMOKIN — Transfiguration of Our Lord Ukrainian Catholic Church, Shamokin, will hold its annual parish festival from 4 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 2, and from noon to 10 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 3, at the church, 129 N. Shamokin St.
The Divine Liturgy will be celebrated at 3 p.m. Saturday and at 9 a.m. Sunday. Each festival day will include homemade ethnic food, beverages, novelties, games, arts and crafts, baked goods and theme baskets. Live music includes The New Individuals from 7 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Soundwave from 2 to 5 p.m. and The Shoreliners from 7 to 10 p.m. Sunday.
Minersville
St. Nicholas church news
Divine Liturgy will be celebrated by the Very Rev. Archpriest Michael Hutsko, pastor, in St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Church, Minersville, at 4: 30 p.m. Saturday, July 26, and at 9:30 a.m. Sunday, July 27.
The Holy Mystery of Reconciliation, the sacrament of penance (confessions) will be heard Saturday at 4 p.m. and Sunday at 9 a.m.
The weekday schedule will be Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at 7 a.m., Saturday at 8 a.m.
The Divine Liturgy at Nativity BVM Ukrainian Catholic Church in Middleport will be celebrated at 7:30 a.m. Sunday, July 27. The Holy Mystery of Reconciliation will be heard at 7:15 a.m.
The rectory office will be close Friday, July 25, through Friday, Aug. 1. Regular office hours will resume on Monday, Aug. 4.
Make-A-Wish softball tourney
The 17th annual Moms for Make-A-Wish softball tournament will be held Friday, Aug. 1, to Saturday, Aug. 9, at the Minersville Community Complex. All proceeds will benefit the Pottsville office of the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
Opening ceremonies will be held at 6 p.m. Friday. More than 20 theme raffle baskets will be on display at the picnic pavilion. The Reading Royals hockey team mascot “Slapshot” will be on hand Friday from 6 to 9 p.m. The Minersville Area High School Quartet will sing the national anthem. There will be face painting and plenty of good food at the concession stand.
The tournament schedule is as follows:
• Friday, Aug. 1, 6 to 9:30 p.m. — The Schuylkill County District Attorney’s Office versus The Prison Guards, followed by the Make-A-Wish All Stars vs. Make-A-Wish coaches and managers.
• Saturday, Aug. 2, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. — Tournament games.
• Sunday, Aug. 3, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. — Tournament games.
• Tuesday, Aug. 5, through Thursday, Aug. 7, 6 to 9 p.m. — Tournament games.
• Saturday, Aug. 9 — Last regular play game at 9 a.m.; “B” Division seed playoffs at 10:30 a.m.; Home run derby at noon; “A” and “B” divisions playoffs at 1:30 p.m.
For more information, call 622-6962.
PA Government
Benefit auction for veterans, troops
POTTSVILLE — State Rep. Tim Seip will emcee an event Saturday, Aug. 2, to benefit Pennsylvania veterans, and he is reminding the community that his offices can help residents find out if they qualify for state services for veterans and military families.
Seip will emcee a benefit auction, which is open to the public, hosted by the Moon Lake Home Owners Association at the Moon Lake pavilion in Barry Township. The proceeds will be used to assist veterans returning from service and to purchase phone cards for soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan. The auction will be held at 10 a.m., which is also Moon Lake (formerly Beury’s Grove) Nostalgia Day.
Members of the public wishing to donate to the auction may bring the items to the event or contact Jim Degel at 875-4650 in advance. For information on the event, the public may contact Pete Scherer of the Moon Lake Nostalgia Committee at 717-940-4867 or event co-chair Cathy Kauffman at 717-471-5264.
Seip also is reminding local residents that his offices can help them find out if they qualify for state services for veterans and military families, including the Pennsylvania Military Family Relief Assistance Program and the state Persian Gulf Conflict Veterans\’ Bonus Program. The Gulf Conflict program began taking applications earlier this year and is available to qualified veterans of the 1990-91 war who were Pennsylvania residents at the time of their service.
For more information, residents may call Seip\’s offices: Pottsville, 624-3145; Tilden Township, 610-562-8435; Hegins, 682-8747; or toll free, 866-299-0277.
Saint Clair
St. Michael Orthodox news
The Rev. Fr. Jeff L. Zias, presbyter, and the Rev. Fr. Deacon Robert Kuchta will perform the following services at St. Michael the Archangel Carpatho-Russian Orthodox Church:
• Saturday, July 26 — 6 p.m., Vespers.
• Sunday, July 27 — 9:30 a.m., Hours; 10 a.m., Divine Liturgy of St. John Chysostom and feast of Apostle Aquila of the Seventy.
Sunday Focus: John 17: 1-13. When Jesus had spoken these words, He lifted up his eyes to heaven and said, \”Father, the hour has come; glorify thy Son that the Son may glorify thee, since Thou hast given him power over all flesh, to give eternal life to all whom Thou hast given him, and this is eternal life, that they know Thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom Thou hast sent. I glorified thee on earth, having accomplished the work which Thou gavest me to do; and now, Father, glorify Thou me in Thy own presence with the glory which I had with Thee before the world was made. \”I have manifested Thy name to the men whom Thou gavest me out of the world; thine they were, and Thou gavest them to me, and they have kept Thy word.
Now they know that everything that Thou hast given me is from thee, for I have given them the words which Thou gavest me, and they have received them and know in truth that I came from Thee; and they have believed that Thou didst send me. I am praying for them. I am not praying for the world, but for those whom Thou hast given me, for they are Thine, all mine are Thine, and Thine are mine, and I am glorified in them.
And now I am no more in the world, but they are in the world, and I am coming to Thee, Holy Father, keep them in Thy name, which Thou hast given me, that they may be one, even as we are one. While I was with them, I kept them in Thy name, which Thou hast given me. I have guarded them, and none of them is lost but the son of perdition that the scripture might be fulfilled. But now I am coming to Thee, and these things I speak in the world that they may have my joy fulfilled in themselves.
For more information, go to www.stmichaelstclair.org.
Holy Apostles Episcopal news
The Rev. James C. Smith will preach and celebrate the Holy Eucharist at the 11 a.m. Sunday after Pentecost worship service at Holy Apostles Episcopal Church, Saint Clair.
Schuylkill County
Bloodmobile at Luther Ridge
POTTSVILLE — The Schuylkill and Eastern Northumberland Chapter of the American Red Cross
will hold a blood drive from 1 to 6 p.m. Tuesday, July 29, at Luther Ridge at Seiders Hill, Red Horse Road, Pottsville.
Summer is normally a slow time for blood donations, so anyone eligible to give blood is encouraged to do so. In order to collect as much blood as possible, encourage relatives and friends to also give blood at this time.
Appointments are encouraged. To make an appointment or for more information, call the Pottsville office at 622-9550 Friday or Monday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Sobriety checkpoints
POTTSVILLE — The North Central Highway Safety Network Inc. announced sobriety checkpoints and roving DUI (driving under the influence) patrols are being conducted through Sunday, July 27, on state Routes 61, 183, 901, 209, 309, 443, 895, 125 and 54, according to John Morgan, alcohol enforcement coordinator.
The safety network reminds travelers to dial 911 if they suspect a drunk driver. To report underage drinking, call 1-888-UNDER21.
The sobriety checkpoints are part of the North Central Pennsylvania Regional Sobriety Checkpoint and Expanded DUI/Underage Drinking Enforcement Program funded through the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.
The North Central Pennsylvania Regional Sobriety Checkpoint and Expanded DUI/Underage Drinking Enforcement Program released the following information from a roving DUI patrol held July 18:
A total of 70 vehicles were contacted and detained, with five operators tested for DUI. There were no adult DUI arrests and one underage drinking arrest. Police also made 19 other traffic arrests, two seat belt violations, four criminal arrests and 46 warnings were issued. Five police departments and five officers participated in the checkpoint.
The enforcement program is funded through the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.
A “Cops In Shops” event was held July 19 in Saint Clair, with 43 IDs checked, one traffic arrest and one criminal arrest. Two police departments and four officers participated. A “Cops In Shops” event in Shenandoah on July 20 resulted in 23 IDs checked and three criminal arrests. One police department and two officers participated.
Shenandoah
Annual ‘Walk in the Garden’ public program
SCHUYLKILL HAVEN — Join the Penn State Master Gardeners for an evening of information Thursday, Aug. 21, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Master Gardener Trial and Demonstration Garden, Route 61 South, in Schuylkill Haven. The fee is $5.
Take this evening hour to stroll through the Geranium trial garden area, the newly established “Pollinator Friendly” area and the water-wise Xeriscape garden area. Master Gardeners will be stationed at each section to introduce the purpose of the demonstration area and to answer questions about the project and to offer additional resources to those interested.
Again, participants will be able to vote for their favorite geranium in the “Peoples’ Choice Award.” As an additional feature this year, an “Ask the Gardener” booth will be available home lawn, garden, tree and insect questions.
Preregistration is required. Request a form from Schuylkill County Extension at 622-4225 or stop in for a form. Make checks payable to Schuylkill County Extension. No receipt will be sent. No refunds, but you may send a substitute. Deadline to register is Aug. 15 at 4 p.m.
The Schuylkill County Extension office is located on the upper level of the Schuylkill County Ag Center, 1202 Ag Center Drive, Pottsville (About two miles south of Pottsville on the Gordon Nagle Trail (Route 901).
Penn State is committed to affirmative action, equal opportunity, and the diversity of its workforce. Penn State encourages persons with disabilities to participate in its programs and activities. If you anticipate needing any type of accommodations or have questions about the physical access provided, contact Schuylkill Extension at 622-4225 at least two weeks in advance of your participation or visit.
Tamaqua
Annual book sale
The Tamaqua Public Library will hold its annual book sale from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 2, at the library. Hardcover books starting at $2, paperbacks as low as 25 cents, and all videos at $1. Children’s books will also be available.
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Zion’s Reformed news
The Rev. Rodger Snyder, pastor, will preach at the 9 a.m. Sunday worship service at Zion’s Reformed United Church of Christ, Ashland. Acolyte — Erika Snyder; lay readers — Scott Neumeister and Danielle Snyder; greeters — Gerald and Paula Kodack; ushers — Debra Leib and Jason Kessler.
Good Shepherd news
The 11th Sunday afterr Pentecost worship service will be celebrated at 9 a.m. at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Ashland. Sermon — The Rev. Dana Heckman-Beil, pastor; worship assistant — Terry Leitzel; lay reader — Frank Rice; ushers — Donald and Heather Lahr; acolyte — Brad Uholik; crucifer — Vanessa Burns; greeter — Heather Lahr; nursery — Megan Lentes.
St. John’s Episcopal news
The Rev. Dolores E. Evans will preach and celebrate the Holy Eucharist at the 9 a.m. 11th Sunday after Pentecost worship service at St. John’s Episcopal Church, Ashland.
Ashland Rotary news
HEGINS — Continuing a tradition during the summer months, the Ashland Area Rotary Club traveled to the “Valley” for a joint meeting with the Hegins-Valley View Rotary Club. The Ashland group look forward to visiting with members of the nearby club.
Two Boy Scouts were present to enlighten us on the requirements to attain the rank of Eagle Scout. Brock Klinger is working toward his Eagle award with a project to design, construct and erect a sign at a nursing home. Daniel Walter has attained Eagle Scout rank with his project to send packages of personal items to service personnel in Iraq and Afghanistan. The fine young men described their efforts in planning and leading their projects.
A special guest was Nelson Texira of Sao Paulo, Brazil. He had been a Rotary exchange student during his senior year in high school and had returned to the area for the 25th year class reunion. He spoke of his current position and commented on the impact that the year as an exchange student had in developing him for his future career.
Many thanks go to our hosts for the delicious meal and great camaraderie. We will attempt to return the favor when they travel to Ashland for the return visit on Tuesday, August 19.
CRUISE CAR RAFFLE TICKETS — Members continue to sell tickets for the Chevrolet Corvette to be awarded Aug. 10 as part of the Great Pottsville Car Cruise. Ticket returns, including unsold tickets, should be made by July 30 to Jerome Schmoltze.
CHICKEN DINNER AND BAND CONCERT — The Cressona Band will be in concert Wednesday, Aug. 13, at Eureka Park. Prior to the concert, the club will hold its annual chicken dinner at the concession stand at the Little League field from 3 to 7 p.m. Club members are selling tickets at $8 for each dinner, which includes three pieces of chicken, baked potato, green beans, cole slaw, dessert and a beverage.
Club members should contact Diane Heidlebaugh to sign up for dessert or beverage donations for the dinner.
CHRISTMAS SHOW AND DINNER — The club is sponsoring a bus trip to the American Music Theatre Sunday, Nov. 9, to see the Christmas show. This trip was scheduled for last year, but was cancelled due to an ice storm. In a most unusual but generous practice, the theater, restaurant and bus owners gave a rain check and have permitted the club to reschedule for this year. Anyone who made a reservation last year is assured a seat, but is asked to confirm their reservation with Connie Wydra as soon as possible. The bus will leave at noon and we will be attending the show at 3 p.m. followed by dinner at the Plain and Fancy Restaurant. There are a few available seats for additional persons that can be reserved by calling Wydra. The cost is $66 per adult, which includes the bus, show, dinner, and gratuities.
LOCAL AREA FOOD PANTRY — The suggested items for donation to the local food pantry for the current quarter are non-perishable breakfast items such as pancake mix, cereal and oatmeal.
UPCOMING EVENTS
• Saturday, July 26 — District 7370 membership seminar in Lewisburg.
• Tuesday, July 29 — The club will host representatives from the Ashland Public Library and the Literacy Council for Schuylkill County who will receive checks from the proceeds of the annual pet walk.
• Tuesday, Aug. 5 — Monthly business meeting.
• Wednesday, Aug. 13 — Chicken dinner and band concert at Eureka Park. No meeting on Aug. 12.
• Tuesday, Aug. 19 — The Hegins-Valley View Rotary Club will travel to Ashland for a joint meeting.
Butler Township
Church of the Nazarene news
LAVELLE — The Lavelle Church of the Nazarene, Route 901, announced the following services and activities:
• Sunday, July 27: 9:30 a.m., Pastor Andy Newman will preach. Nursery care is provided. Children’s church is available. Sunday school classes for all ages will be held at 11 a.m.
• Wednesday, July 30: 6:30 p.m., Women’s Celebrate Recovery Step Group meeting; 7 p.m., Celebrate Recovery Share Groups meeting; adult Bible study; children and teen activities.
Frackville
St. Michael church news
Divine Liturgies will be celebrated by the Rev. Archpriest John M. Fields, pastor, in St. Michael the Archangel Ukrainian Catholic Church, West Oak Street, Frackville, on Saturday, July 26, at 4 p.m. and Sunday, July 27, at 9:15 a.m., changed from 10:30 a.m. due to Ukrainian Seminary Day.
The Holy Mystery of Reconciliation, the sacrament of penance (confessions), will be heard on Saturday beginning at 3:30 p.m. and on Sunday before the Divine Liturgy.
Metropolitan-Archbishop Stefan Soroka and the clergy and faithful of the South Anthracite Protopresbytery will participate in the 11 a.m. Divine Liturgy at St. Nicholas Picnic Grove, Route 901, Primrose, to begin the 74th Ukrainian Seminary Day observance.
For more information, call 874-1101.
Zion Lutheran news
The Rev. Oliver Brown will preach on \”Kingdom of Heaven\” at the 10 a.m. 11th Sunday after Pentecost Holy Communion service at Zion Lutheran Church, Frackville. Worship assistant — Donald Dillman; greeters — Olive Bruchak and Pat Dolan; acolytes — Kayla Derr and Tyler Dean; bell ringer — Timothy Hahn; ushers — Paul Dean, Tyler Dean, Eileen and Norbert Turnbach; altar servers — Joan Demansky, Grace Palina and Linda Pusavage; counters — Carol Nicholas and Lloyd Hampton.
Christ Episcopal news
The Rev. Dolores E. Evans will preach and celebrate the Holy Eucharist at the 11 a.m. 11th Sunday after Pentecost worship service at Christ Episcopal Church, Frackville.
First United Methodist news
The 11th Sunday after Pentecost worship service will be celebrated at 9:30 a.m. at First United Methodist Church, Frackville. Diane DeYoe will give a sermon entitled “Picture This.” Acolyte — Jonathan Liem; usher in charge — Mark Matthews; greeters — Strollis family; liturgist — Roy Mengel; nursery worker — Blaire Thomas.
Gilberton
St. John the Baptist church news
MAIZEVILLE — Due to the 74th annual Ukrainian Seminary Day observance, Divine Liturgy will be celebrated at 8 a.m. Sunday, July 27, at 8 a.m. by the Rev. Archpriest John M. Fields in St. John the Baptist Ukrainian Catholic Church, Main Street, Maizeville.
The Holy Mystery of Reconciliation, the sacrament of penance (confessions), will be heard on Sunday before the Divine Liturgy.
Metropolitan-Archbishop Stefan Soroka and the clergy and faithful of the South Anthracite Protopresbytery will participate in the 11 a.m. Divine Liturgy at St. Nicholas Picnic Grove, Route 901, Primrose, to begin the 74th Ukrainian Seminary Day observance.
For more information, call 874-1101.
Girardville
Girardville Methodist news
The 11th Sunday after Pentecost worship service will be celebrated at 11 a.m. at Girardville United Methodist Church. Ron Dixon will speak on “The Big Question.”
Gordon
Upcoming Gordon meetings
The Gordon Borough Vacancy Board will meet at 6 p.m. Monday, July 28, at the Gordon Municipal Building to fill a vacant seat on borough council. The vacancy board meeting will be immediately followed by a special meeting of Gordon Borough Council, which will be held for the purpose of the opening of trash collection bids.
The regular monthly meeting of Gordon Borough Council scheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 5, has been rescheduled. It will be held at 7 p.m. Monday, Aug. 4, at the municipal building.
All meeting are open to the public.
Gowen City
St. Paul’s Reformed news
Pastor Jerry Schlegel will preach at the Sunday worship service at 9 a.m. at St. Paul’s Reformed United Church of Christ, Gowen City. The message is “Contented with God’s Blessing.” Scriptures — Proverbs 3:1-8 and 1 Corinthians 7:17-24. Organist — Cliff Artman.
Helfenstein
Christ’s Reformed news
Pastor Jerry Schlegel will preach at the Sunday worship service at 10:15 a.m. at Christ’s Reformed United Church of Christ, Helfenstein. The message is “Contented with God’s Blessing.” Scriptures — Proverbs 3:1-8 and 1 Corinthians 7:17-24. Worship assistant — Dorene Choffel; organist — Jeff Haas.
Here and There
Parish festival
SHAMOKIN — Transfiguration of Our Lord Ukrainian Catholic Church, Shamokin, will hold its annual parish festival from 4 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 2, and from noon to 10 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 3, at the church, 129 N. Shamokin St.
The Divine Liturgy will be celebrated at 3 p.m. Saturday and at 9 a.m. Sunday. Each festival day will include homemade ethnic food, beverages, novelties, games, arts and crafts, baked goods and theme baskets. Live music includes The New Individuals from 7 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Soundwave from 2 to 5 p.m. and The Shoreliners from 7 to 10 p.m. Sunday.
Minersville
St. Nicholas church news
Divine Liturgy will be celebrated by the Very Rev. Archpriest Michael Hutsko, pastor, in St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Church, Minersville, at 4: 30 p.m. Saturday, July 26, and at 9:30 a.m. Sunday, July 27.
The Holy Mystery of Reconciliation, the sacrament of penance (confessions) will be heard Saturday at 4 p.m. and Sunday at 9 a.m.
The weekday schedule will be Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at 7 a.m., Saturday at 8 a.m.
The Divine Liturgy at Nativity BVM Ukrainian Catholic Church in Middleport will be celebrated at 7:30 a.m. Sunday, July 27. The Holy Mystery of Reconciliation will be heard at 7:15 a.m.
The rectory office will be close Friday, July 25, through Friday, Aug. 1. Regular office hours will resume on Monday, Aug. 4.
Make-A-Wish softball tourney
The 17th annual Moms for Make-A-Wish softball tournament will be held Friday, Aug. 1, to Saturday, Aug. 9, at the Minersville Community Complex. All proceeds will benefit the Pottsville office of the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
Opening ceremonies will be held at 6 p.m. Friday. More than 20 theme raffle baskets will be on display at the picnic pavilion. The Reading Royals hockey team mascot “Slapshot” will be on hand Friday from 6 to 9 p.m. The Minersville Area High School Quartet will sing the national anthem. There will be face painting and plenty of good food at the concession stand.
The tournament schedule is as follows:
• Friday, Aug. 1, 6 to 9:30 p.m. — The Schuylkill County District Attorney’s Office versus The Prison Guards, followed by the Make-A-Wish All Stars vs. Make-A-Wish coaches and managers.
• Saturday, Aug. 2, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. — Tournament games.
• Sunday, Aug. 3, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. — Tournament games.
• Tuesday, Aug. 5, through Thursday, Aug. 7, 6 to 9 p.m. — Tournament games.
• Saturday, Aug. 9 — Last regular play game at 9 a.m.; “B” Division seed playoffs at 10:30 a.m.; Home run derby at noon; “A” and “B” divisions playoffs at 1:30 p.m.
For more information, call 622-6962.
PA Government
Benefit auction for veterans, troops
POTTSVILLE — State Rep. Tim Seip will emcee an event Saturday, Aug. 2, to benefit Pennsylvania veterans, and he is reminding the community that his offices can help residents find out if they qualify for state services for veterans and military families.
Seip will emcee a benefit auction, which is open to the public, hosted by the Moon Lake Home Owners Association at the Moon Lake pavilion in Barry Township. The proceeds will be used to assist veterans returning from service and to purchase phone cards for soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan. The auction will be held at 10 a.m., which is also Moon Lake (formerly Beury’s Grove) Nostalgia Day.
Members of the public wishing to donate to the auction may bring the items to the event or contact Jim Degel at 875-4650 in advance. For information on the event, the public may contact Pete Scherer of the Moon Lake Nostalgia Committee at 717-940-4867 or event co-chair Cathy Kauffman at 717-471-5264.
Seip also is reminding local residents that his offices can help them find out if they qualify for state services for veterans and military families, including the Pennsylvania Military Family Relief Assistance Program and the state Persian Gulf Conflict Veterans\’ Bonus Program. The Gulf Conflict program began taking applications earlier this year and is available to qualified veterans of the 1990-91 war who were Pennsylvania residents at the time of their service.
For more information, residents may call Seip\’s offices: Pottsville, 624-3145; Tilden Township, 610-562-8435; Hegins, 682-8747; or toll free, 866-299-0277.
Saint Clair
St. Michael Orthodox news
The Rev. Fr. Jeff L. Zias, presbyter, and the Rev. Fr. Deacon Robert Kuchta will perform the following services at St. Michael the Archangel Carpatho-Russian Orthodox Church:
• Saturday, July 26 — 6 p.m., Vespers.
• Sunday, July 27 — 9:30 a.m., Hours; 10 a.m., Divine Liturgy of St. John Chysostom and feast of Apostle Aquila of the Seventy.
Sunday Focus: John 17: 1-13. When Jesus had spoken these words, He lifted up his eyes to heaven and said, \”Father, the hour has come; glorify thy Son that the Son may glorify thee, since Thou hast given him power over all flesh, to give eternal life to all whom Thou hast given him, and this is eternal life, that they know Thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom Thou hast sent. I glorified thee on earth, having accomplished the work which Thou gavest me to do; and now, Father, glorify Thou me in Thy own presence with the glory which I had with Thee before the world was made. \”I have manifested Thy name to the men whom Thou gavest me out of the world; thine they were, and Thou gavest them to me, and they have kept Thy word.
Now they know that everything that Thou hast given me is from thee, for I have given them the words which Thou gavest me, and they have received them and know in truth that I came from Thee; and they have believed that Thou didst send me. I am praying for them. I am not praying for the world, but for those whom Thou hast given me, for they are Thine, all mine are Thine, and Thine are mine, and I am glorified in them.
And now I am no more in the world, but they are in the world, and I am coming to Thee, Holy Father, keep them in Thy name, which Thou hast given me, that they may be one, even as we are one. While I was with them, I kept them in Thy name, which Thou hast given me. I have guarded them, and none of them is lost but the son of perdition that the scripture might be fulfilled. But now I am coming to Thee, and these things I speak in the world that they may have my joy fulfilled in themselves.
For more information, go to www.stmichaelstclair.org.
Holy Apostles Episcopal news
The Rev. James C. Smith will preach and celebrate the Holy Eucharist at the 11 a.m. Sunday after Pentecost worship service at Holy Apostles Episcopal Church, Saint Clair.
Schuylkill County
Bloodmobile at Luther Ridge
POTTSVILLE — The Schuylkill and Eastern Northumberland Chapter of the American Red Cross
will hold a blood drive from 1 to 6 p.m. Tuesday, July 29, at Luther Ridge at Seiders Hill, Red Horse Road, Pottsville.
Summer is normally a slow time for blood donations, so anyone eligible to give blood is encouraged to do so. In order to collect as much blood as possible, encourage relatives and friends to also give blood at this time.
Appointments are encouraged. To make an appointment or for more information, call the Pottsville office at 622-9550 Friday or Monday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Sobriety checkpoints
POTTSVILLE — The North Central Highway Safety Network Inc. announced sobriety checkpoints and roving DUI (driving under the influence) patrols are being conducted through Sunday, July 27, on state Routes 61, 183, 901, 209, 309, 443, 895, 125 and 54, according to John Morgan, alcohol enforcement coordinator.
The safety network reminds travelers to dial 911 if they suspect a drunk driver. To report underage drinking, call 1-888-UNDER21.
The sobriety checkpoints are part of the North Central Pennsylvania Regional Sobriety Checkpoint and Expanded DUI/Underage Drinking Enforcement Program funded through the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.
The North Central Pennsylvania Regional Sobriety Checkpoint and Expanded DUI/Underage Drinking Enforcement Program released the following information from a roving DUI patrol held July 18:
A total of 70 vehicles were contacted and detained, with five operators tested for DUI. There were no adult DUI arrests and one underage drinking arrest. Police also made 19 other traffic arrests, two seat belt violations, four criminal arrests and 46 warnings were issued. Five police departments and five officers participated in the checkpoint.
The enforcement program is funded through the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.
A “Cops In Shops” event was held July 19 in Saint Clair, with 43 IDs checked, one traffic arrest and one criminal arrest. Two police departments and four officers participated. A “Cops In Shops” event in Shenandoah on July 20 resulted in 23 IDs checked and three criminal arrests. One police department and two officers participated.
Shenandoah
Annual ‘Walk in the Garden’ public program
SCHUYLKILL HAVEN — Join the Penn State Master Gardeners for an evening of information Thursday, Aug. 21, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Master Gardener Trial and Demonstration Garden, Route 61 South, in Schuylkill Haven. The fee is $5.
Take this evening hour to stroll through the Geranium trial garden area, the newly established “Pollinator Friendly” area and the water-wise Xeriscape garden area. Master Gardeners will be stationed at each section to introduce the purpose of the demonstration area and to answer questions about the project and to offer additional resources to those interested.
Again, participants will be able to vote for their favorite geranium in the “Peoples’ Choice Award.” As an additional feature this year, an “Ask the Gardener” booth will be available home lawn, garden, tree and insect questions.
Preregistration is required. Request a form from Schuylkill County Extension at 622-4225 or stop in for a form. Make checks payable to Schuylkill County Extension. No receipt will be sent. No refunds, but you may send a substitute. Deadline to register is Aug. 15 at 4 p.m.
The Schuylkill County Extension office is located on the upper level of the Schuylkill County Ag Center, 1202 Ag Center Drive, Pottsville (About two miles south of Pottsville on the Gordon Nagle Trail (Route 901).
Penn State is committed to affirmative action, equal opportunity, and the diversity of its workforce. Penn State encourages persons with disabilities to participate in its programs and activities. If you anticipate needing any type of accommodations or have questions about the physical access provided, contact Schuylkill Extension at 622-4225 at least two weeks in advance of your participation or visit.
Tamaqua
Annual book sale
The Tamaqua Public Library will hold its annual book sale from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 2, at the library. Hardcover books starting at $2, paperbacks as low as 25 cents, and all videos at $1. Children’s books will also be available.
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