Bloodmobile

An American Red Cross Bloodmobile held in Tamaqua on July 21 collected 68 units of the "gift of life." The event was held in the gymnasium of the Tamaqua Salvation Army Center.Several first time donors heeded the call: Sharon Whispell, Warren Jones, Corey Francis, Kate Figueroa, Davon Kennedy, Lorraine Durning, Marcello Geronimo, Missandra Malzberg, Michael Harakel, Jennifer Betz, Lisa Dotter and Nathan Day. Multi-gallon pins were awarded to: Brenda Hebelka and Albert Hoffman, eight gallons; Linda Leiby, five gallons; Brenda Denning, two gallons; and Paul Corinchock and Sandra Evans, one gallon.The gym was turned into a collection center by volunteers Randy Gormley, Peter Shlanta, Bob Zeplin, Jack Rarick, Jack Quinn, John Handler, Mike Trubilla, Ken Fritz and Joe Rimm.Other volunteers who assisted at the drive included: Bob and Dolly Shirey, Joan Camerini, Robert and Darlene Zeckman, Jean Stevens, Edie Hoffman, Claudette Zarra, Sara Jane Bensinger and Jean Tonkin.This visit was sponsored by Marion L. Fetterman of Professional Massage Therapy.Back to schoolA Back to School Boot Camp is being offered free to local residents through the Tamaqua Salvation Army. The educational and recreational program is designed to involve children in activities which promote cooperation, as well as offering tips on organizing, money skills, goal setting, writing and reading skills, brain tweaking and healthy eating. Sessions include arts and crafts, computer learning and a light lightCamp is open to children between the ages of 6 and 12 and will be held Aug. 9-13, at 105 W. Broad St.Enrollment is limited and registration is required. For more information, or to register, call 570-668-0410.Senior newsThe Tamaqua Senior Citizens group met last week with 78 members in attendance. President Jean Machamer conducted the business session and provided readings.Eleanor Roberts offered the invocation, entitled "Teach Us To Live." Secretary Eleanor Schmerfeld provided her weekly report.The meeting included a celebration for members with birthdays in June and July. Honorees included Gloria Gerhard, Nancy Gould, Dolores Walck, Sandy Scott, Melody Weicker, Faye Sweeney, Jean Hromyak, Florina Martin, Jane Neidlinger, Helene Clouser, Pauline Fenstermacher and Helen Patrick. Birthday cake and ice cream were provided compliments of E. Franklin Griffiths and Stephie Gerhard.The next meeting will be held Aug. 5 at the Tamaqua Community Center, located to the rear of Boyer's Food Mart. The business meeting will be preceded by a presentation from a representative of the state attorney general's office, beginning at 11 a.m. The public is welcome to attend.Anyone 55 or older is welcome to join the senior's group.