JT offers free parking

Jim Thorpe Mayor Michael Sofranko announced that there will be free parking from Dec. 25 to Jan. 2 at all regular parking meters in town. A two hour parking limit, however, will be enforced to allow residents and visitors access to downtown Jim Thorpe.Gifts for ChristmasLooking for a special gift to give this year. Why not donate a pint of blood when the American Red Cross Bloodmobile is in town? It's scheduled visit is for Dec. 21, at Memorial Hall, from 1-6 p.m. Donors must be 17 years of age and older.Smoke detectorsFire Chief Bill Diehm still has smoke detectors that the Jim Thorpe Fire Department would like to give to families in the community. If you wish to get one of these free detectors, please contact Chief Diehm at (570) 325-3890. No commercial properties, please.Children's Christmas partyThe Diligent Fire Company will hold its annual Christmas party for the children of the community on Saturday, Dec. 17, starting at 1 p.m. It is open to children up to the age of 10, and is held at the Center Avenue company headquarters.Olde Tyme Christmas CelebrationOn Sunday, Dec. 18, the children of St. John's Lutheran Church, South Avenue, will hold its Olde Tyme Christmas Celebration. The affair will begin at 4 p.m. with recitations and songs by the children. This will be followed by a covered dish supper. Each family is asked to bring a covered dish or bag of something to share with all in attendance. Following the dinner, there will be a Christmas carol sing-along and a birthday cake for Jesus.Members of the congregation, as well as family members of the children are invited to attend.