Community calendar, week of Dec. 18, 2013

First Posted:

Clarks Summit Fire Company No. 1 Looking for New Members in Fire Fighting and Emergency Medical Services. No experience needed, training will be provided. Info: (570) 586-9656, or stop by the Clarks Summit Fire Hall at 321 Bedford St.

Cell phone collection, Abington Heights High School Students Against Destructive Decisions is collecting cell phones at the high school. All cell phones are cleared and programmed with 911 for use by the elderly. The phones may be dropped off in the main office of the high school.

Overeaters Anonymous meetings, First Presbyterian Church, 201 Stone Ave., Clarks Summit, weekly, Wednesday, 7 p.m.; Thursday, 9:30 a.m. and Sun., 4 p.m. Info: 587.4313.

Volunteers needed for Ombudsman (Resident Rights’ Advocate) Program. Community neighbors who are trained to help clarify responsibilities and the rights of those in long-term living facilities. Must be over 18. Info: Sylvia Kolosinsky, Director of volunteer services, 344.3931.

Cub Scout Pack 251, sponsored by the Clarks Green United Methodist Church. Info: Cub Master Tom Sheakoski, 586.8049 or clarksgreen251.org

The Scranton Rescue Missions offers food and clothing. The Scranton Rescue Mission, 8 W. Olive St., offers community service and meals every Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday at 5:25 p.m. Free haircuts first and second Saturday of the month during Bible Study. Every Sunday evening following the evening service, the mission distributes non-perishable food and clothes. Anyone in need of spiritual help, food or clothing can contact www.scrantonrescuemission.com or 357.6677.

Senior Citizens for Senior Dog, Sponsored by Laura’s Hope Rescue. Unites humans and dogs who are in the same period of their lives. Seniors willing to help other seniors in need can contact the rescue at 280.2083.

Boys and Girls Club Car Donation Program for Boys and Girls club in U.S. Cars do not have to be functional, but need a title. The cars are sold at auctions and funds benefit the club. Info: 1.800.246.0493.

Lupus Foundation of Pennsylvania, Resource Center for Autoimmune Diseases, Lupus screenings, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.; Registered Nurse Consultant, Tuesdays, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.; Gluten- Free Information Exchange, fourth Thursday of every month located at Wegmans, Dickson City 6 p.m.; Successful Living with Chronic Illness third Thursday of every month, Noon; 615 Jefferson Ave, Scranton. 888.995.8787.

United Neighborhood Centers of Northeastern Pennsylvania’s Workforce Readiness program is looking to enroll new participants who are interested in receiving help with resume creation, job search and application requirements, interview skills and career exploration. The program is for out-of-school youth, ages 21 and under, who are currently looking for employment and live in Lackawanna County. Info: 961.1592 ext. 105.

The Abington Area Community Classroom offers a variety of ongoing classes. Info: For updated listings, visit aacclass.org or call 954.6650.

Monthly Bereavement Support Group, The Visiting Nurse Association (VNA) Hospice and Home Health of Lackawanna County offers a monthly bereavement support group meeting at their office, 301 Delaware Avenue, Olyphant. The support group meets the third Thursday of each month. Info: 383.5180.

The American Cancer Society seeks volunteer drivers. Drivers are needed to take patients to and from treatment appointments in Lackawanna County. Drivers need a valid Pennsylvania driver’s license, automobile insurance, a clear background and driver check. Orientation is provided. Volunteer assignments are flexible; transportation is needed during the daytime hours during the week, Monday through Friday. You can drive your vehicle or the American Cancer Society van where available. Info: 562.9749.

Serving Seniors, Inc. volunteers needed, Serving Seniors is seeking dedicated and caring people of all ages to provide friendly visits and companionship to residents in Long Term Care and Personal Care Homes within Lackawanna County. Visitation volunteers help improve the quality of life of an older adult. Training provided. Info: 344.3931.

The Newton Recreation Center, 1814 Newton Ransom Blvd., Clarks Summit, announced it’s Fall hours, Sept. 1 – May 31, 2014: Monday through Friday, open from 9 a.m. to noon, closed from noon to 3 p.m. and open 3 to 8:30 p.m.; Saturday, open 10 a.m. To 5 p.m.; Sunday, open noon to 5 p.m.

St. Joseph’s sock collection. From Dec. 1 – Dec. 29, the Abington Community Library is collecting donations of young children’s socks, hats, mittens, and scarves, which may be hung on the Sock Tree in the library’s Children’s Room for the benefit of St. Joseph’s Center’s Mother and Infant Pantry. Info: (570) 587.3440.

Dec. 18: Marywood University Transfer Day, at the Office of University Admissions, in the Liberal Arts Center on the University’s campus. In just one visit, students can complete an application for admission, discuss financial aid and scholarship options, and transfer credits. Spring semester classes begin on January 8, 2014. Info: (570) 348-6234, or marywood.edu/admissions/.

Dec. 19: Run Around Scranton, starting at Geisinger-Community Medical Center, 1800 Mulberry St. at 5 p.m. This free, 5K run/walk is a community wellness initiative open to the public to encourage and maintain an active, healthy lifestyle while highlighting Scranton’s neighborhoods. Info: [email protected] .

The Broadway Theatre League presents: Christmas at The Electric City Trolley Museum, at 300 Cliff Street, Scranton, 6 – 8 p.m. Children are encouraged to wear pajamas and bring blankets, and there will be a photo opportunity with Santa from 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. Hot chocolate and cookies will be provided. Holiday story time will include one of everyone’s favorites, The Polar Express. Reservations deadline: Dec. 10. Cost: $10. Reservations by check or money order are required, payable to: Broadway Theatre League and mailed to: Beth DeFrancesco c/o West Scranton High School, 1201 Luzerne Street, Scranton, Pa. 18504.

After-School Program “Book a Trip to Germany”, at the Abington Community Library, 4 – 4:45 p.m. For ages 7-10. Attendees will hear the history of the Christmas tree and listen to a story about the origin of tinsel. Register: (570) 587-3440.

Dec. 20: St. John’s Russian Orthodox Cathedral’s Holiday Homemade Bread Sale, in the church center on Hill Street, Mayfield, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Raisin and white bread will be sold in either loaf or round sizes. Raisin and white bread will be sold in either loaf or round sizes. Loaves are $4 each and rounds $8 each. Homemade kolachi will also be sold in nut, poppyseed, lekvar and apricot, at $10 each. Orders can be made by calling: (570) 876-0730, (570) 876-0391 or (570) 876-3372. Business establishment orders may be faxed to (570) 876-2534.

Smarty-Pants Trivia Night, at the Abington Community Library, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. Students in grades 4-6 are invited to be competitive, challenge themselves and hang out with friends, which includes a game of Jeopardy, prizes and more. Register: (570) 587-3440.

Christmas Celebration Service, at Waverly Community Church, 7 p.m. Features special music, children’s skit, carols, message, candle lighting and refreshments. Snow date: Dec. 22, 6 p.m.

Dec. 21: The Endless Mountains Model Railroad Club meeting, at the club building, 7837 Route 29, Dimock, 6 p.m. A work bee will start at 4 p.m. Visitors and new members welcome. Info:

Gingerbread House Decorating, at the Abington Community Library, 10 – 11 a.m. Students in grades 4-6 are invited to decorate a graham cracker house and make homemade poppers to take home for the holidays. Register: (570) 587-3440.

Ransom Lions Club Breakfast with Santa, at the Ransom Community Hall, 9 – 11 a.m. Open to all children from Ransom Twp.

Dec. 25: The 13th Annual Free Community Christmas Dinner, at the Montrose Square Community Room, begins at noon. Sponsored by Endless Mountains Health Systems physicians, employees, volunteers of EMHS and the community. All are invited and no reservations are necessary. The meal will be followed by singing of carols.

Dec. 26: La Chiacchierata: Italian Discussion Group, at the Abington Community Library, 7 p.m. All are invited to join this self-guided Friends of the Italian Language conversation group. For grades 10 through adult. Register: (570) 587-3440.

The Nutcracker Ballet, at Marywood University’s Sette-LaVerghetta Center for the Performing Arts, 2300 Adams Ave., Scranton, 2 and 7:30 p.m. Also, Dec. 27 and 28.

Dec. 31: Nearly New Year’s Eve, at the Abington Community Library, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. Celebrate the start of 2014 with games, food, and fun. For grades 4-6. Register: (570) 587-3440.

Jan. 1: New Year’s Day Pork and Sauerkraut Dinner, at Tompkinsville United Methodist Church, 1448 Heart Lake Rd., Jermyn, from 2 to 4 p.m. Take-outs only. Cost: $10 adults, $6 children 10 and under. Tickets available at the door or from church members.

Jan. 2: Marywood University Transfer Day, at the Office of University Admissions, in the Liberal Arts Center on the University’s campus. In just one visit, students can complete an application for admission, discuss financial aid and scholarship options, and transfer credits. Spring semester classes begin on January 8, 2014. Info: (570) 348-6234, or marywood.edu/admissions/.

Jan. 7: Misericordia Adult Learners Open House, in the Huntzinger and Alden Trust Rooms on campus from 4 to 7 p.m. To RSVP, contact the Adult Admissions Office at (570) 674-6791, [email protected] or 1-866-262-6363. A virtual open house will also be held for adult learners on Jan. 8 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. To register: www.misericordia.edu/adulted.

Jan. 11: Northeastern Pennsylvania’s 10th Annual Ukrainian New Year Dinner Dance “MALANKA”, at St. Vladimir Parish Center, 728 North Seventh Avenue, Scranton, 6 p.m. – 1 a.m. Inludesa a Ukrainian and American dinner buffet, cash bar, complimentary bubbly toast and dancing to the Ukrainian orchestra Fata Morgana. Door prizes will be awarded along with special awards for the lady and gentleman wearing the most attractive Ukrainian embroidered apparel. Advance reservations required. Cost: $40. Tickets: (570) 489-1256.

Jan. 26: Boy Scouts Religious Awards Counselors meeting, at St. Johns Lutheran Church, Wilkes-Barre, 7 p.m. An annual meeting for all religious award counselors to discuss the boards of review and other concerns. Info: (570) 825-2648.

Mondays:

Clarks Summit Fire Company Auxiliary meeting, 7 p.m. Clarks Summit Fire House, 321 Bedford St., second Monday of every month.

CMC Donor Site Blood Drives, noon to 4 p.m., second Monday of the month, CMC Professional Building Auditorium. Info: 969.8800.

NAMI Support Group, 7 p.m. on the second and fourth Mondays of each month from in the CMC Professional Building, Auditorium. Info: 969.8986.

Guardian of the Redeemer Fellowship, on the first and third Monday of the month, hosted by the St. Thomas More Society of St. Paul’s Parish, 2301N. Washington Ave., Scranton. For men interested in adult discussion of the Catholic faith. Info: 343.0634.

The Dalton Fire Co. Ladies Auxiliary Bingo Night, at the Dalton Fire Co. Hall, on the second and fourth Monday of each month at 6:45 p.m.

Knitting Group, at the Abington Community Library every other Monday from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Bring a current project and knit with others. For adults only.

Countryside Community Church Bible Study, at 14011 Orchard Drive, Clarks Summit at 10 a.m. Info: 587.3206 or www.countrysidechurch.org.

Caring Hands Group, at the Abington Community Library, 1200 W Grove St S Abington Twp., 1 p.m. Knitting and crocheting group whose members meet to create items needed by local non-profit agencies. Grade seven to adult.

Tuesdays:

Alzheimer’s Association caregivers support group meetings, 7 to 8 p.m., the last Tuesday of every month. Elan Gardens. Adjoining room for loved ones, who will not be left unattended. Info: Rhonda, 585.8099 or Rita, 586.0179.

Introduction to Martial Arts, starting January 3 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Chinchilla United Methodist Church, 411 Layton Rd., Chinchilla. Ages six and up. Cost: Free. Info: Scott at 585.1206.

South Abington Lions Club meetings, on the second Tuesday of each month, second floor of the South Abington Township Building at 7 p.m. Info: 313.2133.

Greater Scranton Area Roaring Ramblers Toastmaster Meeting, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. every second and fourth Tuesday of each month at Allied Services in the Administrative Board Room, located in the Rehabilitation Building on the Morgan Highway at Moffatt Drive. Info: scrantontoastmasters.org, 586.7762 or 587.0232.

Mommy and Me Naturally, Outdoors, at the EMNC Lodge and grounds from 10 – 11:30 a.m. Pretend, sing, listen to a story, make a craft and play. Program is designed for children two-and-a-half to four years old. Cost: free.

The Greater Scranton Roaring Ramblers Toastmasters Club, meets the second and fourth Tuesdays at Allied Services, Morgan Hwy., Scranton. Visitors are welcome. Info: www.1607.toastmastersclubs.org or 587.0232.

University of Scranton Free Clinic the Uninsured, 240 Kessler Court, has extended its hours: noon -4 p.m. The medical clinic serves uninsured people from Lackawanna County by appointment. Appointments can be arranged by calling 941.6112. World Peace Meditation and Reiki Circle, on the first Tuesday of every month, at Self Discovery Wellness Arts Center, 200 Lake Ave., Montrose from 5 – 7 p.m. Cost: $10. RSVP/Info: 278.9256, [email protected] or wellnessarts.com.

STACKS Writing Group, at The Vintage/Morning Glory Cafe, 326 Spruce St., Scranton, every Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. Info: [email protected] .

The Knights of Columbus, Abington Council #6611 Monthly BINGO Night, in the Gathering Room on the lower level of Our Lady of the Snows Church at 301 S. State St., Clarks Summit, 7:00 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month. No cover charge. BINGO cards are $0.50 ea. or 3/$1.00. Info: Chris Kane at (570) 587-1390.

MAH JONGG, at the Abington Community Library, 1-3 p.m. No experience necessary. Adults.

Wednesdays:

Oakwood Terrace Support Group meetings for spouses and other family members or caretakers of those afflicted with Alzheimer’s disease, the third Wednesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. 400 Gleason Road, Moosic. Meetings are open to the public. Cost: Free. Info: Sylvia Kolosinsky at 451.3171 ext. 116 or oakwoodterraceinc.com

Parish Youth Choir Rehearsals, 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. accompanies the singing at the 9:30 a.m. mass, at Our Lady of the Snows, every other week. Open to youth, 11 to 18. Info: 586.4112.

Youth ministry at Our Lady of the Snows Church, 7 to 8 p.m. Clarks Summit, general meetings. Junior High program, 7 and 8th graders, Sundays 1 to 2 p.m. Info: Call ahead to join 586.1741.

Meditation Classes at the Waverly Community House from 7 to 8:30 with Buddhist monk Gen Samten Kelsang. Classes are self-contained. Drop in any week. Cost is $10 per class. Sponsored by Kadampa Meditation Center, N.Y.

Great Scranton Chapter of Penn State Alumni Association Meetings, in the lower level of the SLC Building on the Worthington Scranton campus, Dunmore. The meetings are held on the second Wednesday of the month at 7 p.m. Meetings are open to the public and the general membership is welcome to attend.

Mom’s in Prayer Ministry, at Summit Baptist Bible Church, 232 Noble Road, Clarks Summit every Wednesday from 8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. A prayer group for mothers of students in the Abington Heights School District. Info: [email protected] or MomsInPrayer.org.

Lung Cancer Alliance Support Group, the first Wednesday of every month, 6:30 p.m. at the Center for Comprehensive Cancer Care on Morgan Hwy. No meeting in July. Info: 586.0179.

Families Helping Families, at the Abington Community Library, 7-8:30 p.m. This is an educational series and support group for teens and their families affected by substance abuse, co-sponsored by the Clear Brook Foundation.

Bridge Group, at the Abington Community Library, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Thursdays:

The Greater Scranton Roaring Ramblers Toastmasters meets the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays at 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Allied Services, Morgan Hwy., Scranton. Visitors welcome. Info:www.scrantontoastmasters.org or call 570.498.1110 or 570.604.6176.

Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation support group, 7 p.m., Community Medical Center Professional Building, first floor, CME Room, third Thursday of each month. Info: 969.8986.

Grief and Bereavement Educational and Conversational Support Group. Sponsored by AseraCare Hospice, 749 Northern Blvd., Clarks Summit, PA 18411. Join us on at the AseraCare offices on the 3rd Thursday of each month from 6 – 7:30 p.m. Info: Olympia Cianfichi, Bereavement Coordinator, 1.800.870.0085.

Writers’ Group, for ages 18 and up at the Dietrich Theater in downtown Tunkhannock from 7-8:30 p.m. All genres and levels of writing welcome. Cost: Free. Info: 996.1500.

Scrabble, 1 p.m. at Abington Community Library. No registration necessary.

Heinz Rehab Hospital’s Stroke Support Group, the first Thursday of the month in the Rose Brader Dining Room in the main building, 150 Mundy St., Wilkes-Barre from 4:30 to 6 p.m.

Scrabble, at the Abington Community Library, beginning at 1 p.m. Join other players for games of Scrabble. No registration necessary.

University of Scranton Free Clinic the Uninsured, 240 Kessler Court, has walk-in hours from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. The medical clinic serves uninsured people from Lackawanna County. Info: 941.6112. Better Breathers Club, at the Geisinger-Community Medical Center Professional Building, Classroom 2, Second floor, 316 Colfax Ave., Scranton at 6:30 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month. A free support group for people with chronic lung disease and their families. Info: 969.8986.

Meditation Classes, at the Waverly Community House from 7 p.m. to 8:30. Classes are led by a Buddhist monk. Cost is $10 per class. Info: 845.856.9000.

Survivors After Suicide Support Group, every second and fourth Thursday of the month from 6 – 7:30 p.m. at the West Hazleton Borough Building, 100 S. 4th St., West Hazleton. Facilitated by: Professional and Peer. An open grief group that welcomes survivors at any stage of their grieving process. Participants enter the group, leave, and return as they feel the need.

Fridays:

Diabetes support group, 10 a.m. Community Medical Center Professional Building, third floor classroom, second Friday of each month. Info: 969.7272. Cost: Free.

A Course in Miracles, 4:30 p.m. at Everything Natural. Discover more about the guiding principles of authors like Marianne Williamson and Dr. Wayne Dyer. Newcomers welcome.

Saturdays and Sundays:

Bereavement Support, at Our Lady of Snows Church Parish Center 301 S. State St., Clarks Summit, every third Sunday of the month at 2 p.m. All are welcome to attend informative sessions dealing with the grief process. Info: 586.1741.

Guided Downtown Walking Tours of Scranton, conducted by the Lackawanna County Historical Society, 11 a.m. at the main entrance of Lackawanna College on Vine Street near Washington Avenue. Tours last two hours. Cost: $3. Info: (570) 344-3841.

All You Can Eat Breakfast, at Clarks Summit Fire Co #1 Inc. – 321 Bedford St., Clarks Summit. All you can eat breakfast from 8 a.m.-noon on the third Sunday of every month. Breakfast includes biscuits, chipped beef, home fried potatoes, scrambled eggs, pancakes, french toast, bacon, sausage, bagels, muffins, Danish, cream cheese, waffles with strawberry whipped cream, fruit cup, coffee, tea, orange juice, hot chocolate and more. Cost: $8/adults or $5/kids (under 10 years).