Rush-Ryan seniors

The Rush, Ryan and Delano Senior Citizens Inc. held its annual Christmas party on Dec. 10 at the Ryan Township Fire Company in Barnesville. The 50 members in attendance enjoyed a meal catered by C.J. Catering of Mahanoy City.The tables were decorated with poinsettia plants, donated by Hub and Shirley Becker. Everyone in attendance received mittens and candy canes, courtesy of Doris Brobst. Several door prizes were donated, including a lap blanket from Nancy Godanis, a table runner by Eleanor Schmerfeld and a lamp, donated by Ron and Lynne Creitz.A moment of silence was held in memory of Rhoda Purnell, followed by a gift exchange and bingo.The group meets the second and fourth Tuesday of every month, at the fire company. Anyone 55 or older is welcome to join. Due to the holidays, the next meeting is scheduled for Jan. 14.Rush tax officeThe office of Rush Township Tax Collector Dolores Walck will be open on Dec. 30, from 10-11 a.m. and from 6-7 p.m. for last minute tax payments. Mail payments must be postmarked no later than Dec. 31.School concertThe Tamaqua Area Middle School Music Department will present its annual Holiday Music Program tonight in the school district auditorium. The music will begin at 7 p.m. and will feature performances by the Sixth Grade Band, the Middle School General Chorus and the Middle School Select Chorus.Accompanists will be Antonetta Gerace, Sierra Petrucci and Faith Roberts. The band is directed by Marsha Rodgers, while both choirs are under the direction of John Buglio.Art showThe Tamaqua Community Art Center will sponsor a "Meet and Greet" session for artist Tammy Gilbert on Dec. 19. Gilbert, who lives in Jim Thorpe, draws on her childhood experiences and those of her children to create "A Whimsical World." The reception will be held from 6-9 p.m.The art center is located at 125 Pine St. The public is welcome to attend.Open houseZion Evangelical Lutheran Church will host an open house Saturday, from 11 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. for visitors to view the decorations and the Christmas Putz.Light refreshments will be served.The church is located at the intersection of Greenwood and Mauch Chunk streets. For more information, call 570-668-2180.Bethany ECThe Rev. Kevin Roberts will officiate at the 8 a.m. traditional service this Sunday in Bethany Evangelical Congregational Church. A contemporary service will be held at 10:30 a.m. at the Tamaqua YMCA, including nursery and primary church. Sunday school classes will meet at 9:15 a.m., at the church.Also this Sunday, there will be a special musical rehearsal and praise practice, at 6 p.m., for Christmas Eve services.Activities for next week will include: Tuesday, Christmas Eve traditional service, at 3 p.m., at the church, and contemporary Christmas Eve service, at 7 p.m., at the YMCA; Saturday, musician's practice at 8:30 a.m. and praise practice at 9:30 a.m.