Clarks Summit
In celebration of Arbor Day, three shade-tree organizations in the Abingtons will host an event to educate residents on the importance of planting trees.
The Clarks Summit, Clarks Green and South Abington Twp. Shade Tree organizations will host an "inaugural" celebration today from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Clarks Summit Fire Hall, 321 Bedford St. The event will feature live music, a demonstration on how to plant trees and a special appearance by Smokey Bear. Attendees will receive a free seedling.
"We want to raise awareness about the benefit of trees," organizer Donna Zagrapan said.
miorfino@timesshamrock.com, @miorfinoTT on Twitter
Covington Twp.
The North Pocono Blood Council will sponsor an American Red Cross blood drive at Daleville United Methodist Church from 1-6 p.m. on Thursday, May 23, in Covington Twp.
The church is near the intersection of Routes 435 and 502. People can call 800-733-2767 to make an appointment.
"We're going into the summer months when it's always more difficult to get people to donate," said Carmon Flynn, executive director of the American Red Cross of Lackawanna County.
Mr. Flynn said going into hurricane season, it is a good time for the organization to add to its reserves in case there is a national disaster.
kwind@timesshamrock.com
Olyphant
It's a long commute for Lora Lynn to visit her daughter.
She lives in Peru.
Formerly of Olyphant, Emily Topalanchik joined the Peace Corps four years ago. The program requires a two-year commitment, but she has extended her contract twice to continue her work.
"I'm very proud of her, and I support her," her mom said, adding that her daughter had become a leader in the program.
Ms. Topalanchik works in the main office in Lima, promoting health care practices and disease prevention with families and the community. A Spanish teacher, Ms. Lynn said her visits have been beneficial to her practice as well. "I go once a year," she said.
rbrown@timesshamrock.com, @rbrownTT on Twitter
Spring Brook Twp.
The Spring Brook Fire Department will host a 1950s- and 1960s-themed dance on Saturday to support the North Pocono Food Pantry.
The doors open at 6 p.m., and music will start at 7. Rose Serena, the pantry's co-director, said people are asked to bring a grocery bag of canned goods and dress in period-appropriate clothing.
Given state funding cuts to Bread Basket, which distributes money to seven area pantries, the dance is an important way for the pantry to stock up, Ms. Serena said.
"It's going to be a great time," Ms. Serena said. "People in Spring Brook love to dance."
kwind@timesshamrock.com
Throop
Hose Company 2 is looking for volunteers and hungry residents. The Throop volunteer fire company will host its annual spring chicken barbecue on Saturday, May 11, from noon to 5 p.m. at company grounds, 206 Boulevard Ave.
The dinner will include half a chicken, roasted potatoes, green beans, a roll and dessert for an $8 donation for eat-in or takeout.
Members hope to sell dinners and sign up new support staff or firefighters. For more information, call 489-6431.
rbrown@timesshamrock.com, @rbrownTT on Twitter
Waverly Twp.
Residents looking to redecorate their front porches are in luck.
The Waverly Community House's annual House & Garden Show today will feature creative front-porch displays and more than 20 outdoor and interior design vendors. Held at the Waverly Community House, 1115 N. Abington Road, the event will run from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
While children might not be interested in the decorations, those who attend the event will have the opportunity to plant a tomato plant, event co-chairwoman Susan Gershey said. Admission to the event is $6, though children can participate in the garden workshop for free.
"It's one of the Waverly Community House's two major events," Ms. Gershey said.
miorfino@timesshamrock.com, @miorfinoTT on Twitter