This week starts December when the festive holiday-related days we observe are National Pastry, Gingerbread House, Poinsettia, Baked Cookies, Look for an Evergreen, Go Caroling, National Eggnog, National Fruitcake, and Make Cutout Snowflakes.
Before we move on to holiday announcements, however, I need to address a mistake I made in my last column. A thousand lashings with a wet noodle for forgetting to acknowledge some people who played an important role in the MADDay Award Reception.
We extend our thanks to PPL Corporation and Antz Energy Systems Inc. for sponsoring the event and to Pearl Stadium 8 for hosting our first-ever movie theater reception.
Without our speakers and guests, there would not have been as much festivity. Thank you, Jasmine Brooks, WBRE/WYOU Eyewitness News reporter, for emceeing and adding cheer; to Schuylkill County Commissioner Gary J. Hess for his kind words of encouragement, and to Rep. Matt Cartwright (D-17) and state Rep. Mike Tobash (PA-125) for providing commendations. Without an army of supportive partners, we would be limited in our recognition endeavors. Finally, hugs and kisses to the MADDay Committee, who allow me go a little crazy until the event is over.
Now back to your regularly scheduled program.
Buy local
Now that Thanksgiving is over and the holiday shopping begins in earnest, consider supporting our local businesses. You can get all your shopping done without even leaving the county. Some wonderful and practical gift ideas can be found at jewelry stores, bowling alleys, gas stations, grocery stores, pharmacies, restaurants, hair salons and spas, movie theaters, home improvement stores, health food stores, fitness centers, florists and art studios. All of these are local businesses, not chains, so your money stays right here. Give back.
We're into our biggest giving season. Don't forget to share some of your modest fortune with others, be they individuals, civic organizations or agencies that rely on the kindness of people like you to help them be able to provide the best services possible to consumers.
This month ushers in the Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and other days of special celebration. Perhaps you can also help your community during these special days. It can be as easy as dropping a toy in the red barrel or change in the red kettle, donating food items to the food pantries and soup kitchens that will see an explosion of need at this time, or make a donating to your favorite nonprofit.
Soup's on
Getting tired from running around and just don't have the energy to make dinner? Downtown Shenandoah Inc. can help. This seasonal monthly homemade soup sale is in full swing. On the second Thursday of the month, you can choose from a variety of soups and buy pints or quarts for a very reasonable price. Delicious homemade soup on a chilly evening after a day of hard work sounds wonderful. Call 570-462-2060 for details or to place an order.
Give blood
Here's a gift idea that will cost you nothing but is invaluable to the recipients. Did you know that your blood donation can save up to three lives? In this day of advanced technology, there's still no substitute for blood. Drives will be held at Penn State Schuylkill Wednesday, at Christ's United Lutheran Church in Ashland Thursday, and at the Frackville Elks Friday. Everyone in general good health who weighs at least 110 pounds is encouraged to donate.
Photo with 'cool Santa'
Haven't had a chance to get your Santa photos yet? Schaeffers Harley-Davidson is once again offering their unique holiday photos. On Saturday, your little ones can have their photo taken with the coolest Santa around. Call 570 366-0143 for details.
Other fun
Lift Your Spirits Performing Arts, in conjunction with the Sovereign Majestic Theater is proud to present "Christmas Through the Years," a USO tribute show. By recreating USO memories, you can relive the historic tradition of professional entertainers volunteering to go where the soldiers were, to entertain and boost the morale of service members and their families. Shows are at 7 p.m. Saturday and at 3 p.m. Sunday matinee; all U.S. veterans and active military are admitted free with proof of service. Veterans and active service members are encouraged to wear military attire. Ticket fee applies to non-military attendees.
All aboard for the Santa Claus Special Steam Train, which will depart at 11 a.m. and 1 and 3 p.m. Saturday for one-hour excursions with Santa. Tickets will go fast, so reserve yours today at 570-668-5722.
For information about volunteer opportunities, call Community Volunteers in Action at 570-628-1426, e-mail jjohnston@co,.schuylkill.pa.us or go to www.schuylkill.us/cvia. Check us out on Facebook at www.facebook.com/communityvolunteersinaction.