The Tamaqua Rescue Squad's annual membership drive is currently under way with fund drive brochures recently mailed to local residents.

Operating separately from the Tamaqua Fire Department and Tamaqua Community Ambulance Association, the TRS does not receive any funds designated by Tamaqua Borough Council for those organizations.Squad secretary and director Robert J. 'Bucky' Derr explained the need for the drive."Rising operational costs are making it more difficult to meet our needs. Therefore, we are reaching out to our community for assistance."The rescue squad responds to approximately 120 calls per year and does not bill anyone for its services. New volunteers are always welcome. Interested parties may stop by the station any Thursday evening to discover the capabilities of the squad and its members.Donations, made out to Tamaqua Rescue Squad, may be mailed to 19 Pine St., Tamaqua PA 18252