March starts this week. We'll recognize American Red Cross Month and National Chocolate and Agriculture weeks. Days to acknowledge are Salvation Army and Girl Scouts anniversaries, human services, snowman burning, and, of course, Easter.
We're now into the Lenten season. Have you been supporting your local fire companies, churches and other organizations that have been selling fish meals? Your fire company has been there in times of need, sometimes for a century or more. With funding cuts, every effort they make helps to provide training and equipment to keep their station current and the most efficient. You can support them by purchasing their meals. Usually, there's a variety of food choices, so there's something for everyone. Typically, the cost of the meal is an odd amount, like $8. Why not chip in that extra $2? They'll appreciate it and be able to be better prepared to help you in times of need.
There are three blood drives in our area Tuesday: St. John's UCC in Orwigsburg, the Ringtown Valley Fire and Rescue Company and St. Michael's Byzantine Catholic Church in McAdoo will host the events.
The Sovereign Majestic Theater presents "The History of the Pottsville Fire Department" by Mike Glore at 7 p.m. Wednesday. The program is free and open to the public.
For information about volunteer opportunities, call Community Volunteers in Action at 628-1426, e-mail jjohnston@co,.schuylkill.pa.us or go to www.schuylkill.us/cvia. Check us out on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Community-Volunteers-in-Action.
Gardens maintenance
Times: Flexible, starting in the spring.
Responsibility: Weeding, adding to the garden, trimming trees and shrubs, cleaning the woods paths, making a labyrinth and more.
Skills: Ability to perform task and used required tools.
Location: Stonehedge Gardens, Tamaqua.
Contact: Tracy, 449-4568.
Administrative, clerical
Times: Flexible.
Responsibility: Help staff with common office tasks to give them more time for the museum. May include mailings, helping with gift shop, making brochures or flyers and greeting public.
Skills: Ability to perform assigned task, computer skills, friendly disposition.
Location: Schuylkill County Historical Society, Pottsville.
Contact: Dave, 622-7540.
Home cleaning assistance
Times: As needed.
Responsibility: Provide light housekeeping on short- or long-term basis for an older adult who is unable to complete tasks. Supplies may be provided.
Skills: Ability to do light housekeeping, such as vacuuming, sweeping, dusting and cleaning bathroom. Friendly and able to work with the elderly.
Location: Throughout Schuylkill County.
Contact: Sue Conner, Office of Senior Services, 622-3103.
Disaster action team member
Times: As needed. Choose availability.
Responsibility: Work with the American Red Cross to respond to disasters and assist those affected, complete forms, provide referrals, etc.
Skills: Age 55 and above, demonstrate commitment, ability to follow instructions. Training required.
Location: Throughout Schuylkill County.
Contact: Sue Conner, RSVP, 622-3103.