Free lunch

The South Ward Playground Association is conducting a free summer lunch program for all local children up to and including the age of 18. Lunches are served weekdays, from noon to 1 p.m., at the South Ward Playground.The program is an off shoot of the free school lunch program, with funding provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The non-discriminatory program is open to all children regardless of race, origin, religion, etc. In addition to a healthy lunch, participants will be offered a variety of summer activities.The playground is located between Penn and Race streets in Tamaqua's South Ward.Cross countryThe Tamaqua Cross Country Boosters will meet July 19, at 6:30 p.m., on the steps at the Tamaqua Area Senior High School. Parents of students in grades 7-12 are welcome to attend.The boosters will finalize plans for a July 20 car wash, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Hometown Fire Company.Bethany ECThe Rev. Kevin Roberts will officiate at the 10:30 a.m. worship service this Sunday in Bethany Evangelical Congregational Church. Nursery care is provided.Activities for next week will include: Monday, "Jesus In the Steps," at 7 p.m.; Tuesday, Quilters meet at 9:30 a.m.The annual church picnic will be held July 17 at the Normal Square Pavilion. The day will begin with a worship session at 11 a.m.For more information, or directions, call (570) 668-3344.St. John's LutheranThe Rev. Phyllis Wolford will officiate at the 9:15 a.m. worship service this Sunday in St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church.Activities for next week include: Monday, church council meets at 7 p.m.A joint Vacation Bible School will be held Monday through Friday, July 11-15 at Zion Lutheran Church.The annual Summer picnic will be held July 17.Zion LewistownThe Rev. Sunny Stock will officiate at the 10:45 a.m. worship service this Sunday in Zion Church in the Lewistown Valley.A children's service and communion will be included. Sunday school classes will be held at 9:30 a.m.Vacation Bible School will be held July 18-22, from 6 to 8:30 p.m., at Christ Church, McKeansburg.For more information, call (610) 379-0817.