Chestnuthill column

Fairview Seniors

A trip to Ehrhard's to celebrate October Fest was the latest excursion for the Fairview Seniors. The group is making more plans for other adventures. On Tuesday, Oct. 26, the group had hot dogs, cider and doughnuts for Halloween and gave Crosses in Pocket made by club members to Operation Touch of Home to send to service men and women overseas

At the next meeting on Nov. 9, the program is expected to include a speaker and games. Plans for a Christmas Luncheon at The Galley in Wind Gap are under way. Fairview Seniors meet at the Chestnuthill Center in Brodheadsville. Visitors are welcome.

Playground dedicated

The toddler playground was dedicated at Effort UMC Sunday. Pastor Robin Fisher recalled the hard work of the volunteers, the extra work that had to be done due to changed regulations and how safe the enclosed area will keep the children.

Free flu shots

This Friday, Oct. 29, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., free flu vaccinations will be offered at the American Legion Post Home in Gilbert, as hosted by state Rep. Mike Carroll and Sen. Patrick M. Browne. Immunizations will be offered by Blue Mountain Health System and provided by the PA Department of Health. First come, first served as there is a limited supply.

Anyone with questions may call 1-866-247-2776.

Halloween fun

The American Legion will be hosting its annual free Spooktacular Halloween party at 1 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 30, for children up to age 12 who are registered.

One can call (610) 681-5838 for more information.

Trick or Treat for Halloween will be celebrated at the Chestnuthill Township Park from 5-7 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 31.

Groups and organizations can get involved and set up a table. For more information, one can call (570) 992-9733 for details.

World Lions Day

Thirty-two years ago Lion Christopher Sweeney first organized a program that included a service project for the Western Pocono Lions Club and a service to the community's older citizenry. That project is taking senior residents from four West End personal care homes for a ride in the country to see the leaves, animals and the countryside.

This year's homes were Brookmont Health Care, Mrs. Bush's Personal Care, Getz Personal Care and Wesley Enhanced Living at Chestnuthill Manor. Approximately 50 residents took advantage of the opportunity. The club also provided cookies for the residents of all four homes.

Sweeney said he has been grateful to all the Lions, Lioness, Leos and personal care homes that have participated over the years, and knows this event has given great satisfaction and personal reward to everyone involved.

Lioness collect

Members of the Western Pocono Lioness Club are collecting craft items for Beacon Lodge, a Lion-supported camp for those with disabilities. Among the items being gathered are: markers, tape, glue, paper of all sizes and colors, pipe cleaners, paint brushes, glitter glue and more.

Prayer Shawl Ministry

Effort UMC's Prayer Shawl Ministry will meet at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, Nov. 2, at the church. This is an ongoing ministry and both requests for shawls and donations as well as prayers are sought by the group.

For more information call the church office at (570) 629-1980 or Mert Wolfe at (610) 681-6419.

Touch of Home

The Operation: Touch of Home committee will meet at 7 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. 2, at the American Legion Post home in Gilbert. For more information call (570) 977-1724.