It's the last week of January. Wow, is the time flying. There's a lot going in Schuylkill County this week. No cabin fever here!
Can you sign, as in American Sign Language? I can, or rather, I used to be semi-proficient, now I'm just rusty. However, I didn't know that there's an Indian Sign Language version. The Schuylkill County Historical Society presents Indian Sign Language Rendezvous on at 7 p.m. Wednesday. "Porcupine" Pat will discuss how the Indian nations had their own culture and language, and to overcome any language barriers, Indian Sign Language was developed to help communication for trade and other needs. Participants will also learn how to sign their name, a place or activity. This program sounds fascinating to me. I recommend this free class for the whole family.
The second annual "Souper" Saturday will be held this Saturday at the Shoppes at the Meck Knitting Mill in Schuylkill Haven. The contest runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Enter your favorite soup for a chance to win a trophy and bragging rights for the whole year. I was honored to be last year's winner, but I won't be entering this year. Craft vendors will also be on hand. Nominal contest entry or tasting and voting fees apply for this event that is sponsored by Loafer's Glory. Contact Lori at 385-2700 for details.
The Walk In Art Center in Schuylkill Haven is hosting the First Saturday Open House from 1 to 6 p.m. Saturday at the center, 110 W. Columbia St. - entrance at 220 Parkway - for an afternoon of fun and educational children's activities. The center has a full calendar of a variety of events. To get more information, go to www.schuylkillcountyartcenter.org.
Mark your calendars: There's a blood drive Feb. 4 at the Zion Lutheran Church in Frackville. Anyone in general good health who weighs at least 110 pounds is encouraged to donate.
Who's Who in Schuylkill County in the 20th century? There is presently no updated biographical publication covering the 20th century. The Schuylkill County Historical Society is working toward remedying that by compiling a biographical database of Schuylkill Countians. They're asking for your help.
Compiling the database may seem daunting, but with modern technology, it will be much easier to collect and process the material.
You can help by going to www.schuylkillhistory.org and looking at the listed names of prominent citizens in the link to Who's Who in Schuylkill County in the 20th century. Background is need on these people. If you recognize a name or know a family member, they ask that you contact them so they can update the database.
Additionally, you may know of someone who deserves to be on the list. You can submit a name by using the Biographical Work Sheet link. You can e-mail questions or information to sch.hist@comcast.net.
For information about volunteer opportunities, call Community Volunteers in Action at 628-1426, e-mail jjohnston@co,.schuylkill.pa.us. or go towww.schuylkill.us/cvia. Check us out on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Community-Volunteers-in-Action.
Grocery, errand transport
Times: Flexible, could be 1-2 hours per week or month. Volunteer called as needed.
Responsibility: Transport senior client to grocery store to purchase groceries or purchase groceries from a list for client, using client's money. Other possibilities are pharmacy runs or errands.
Skills: Reliable car with current PA driver's license and insurance coverage. Able to assist with shopping and carry grocery bags as needed. Honest and dependable.
Location: Throughout county.
Contact: Sue Conner , Office of Senior Services, 622-3103.