But last weekend, cheerleading and cheer dancing groups from around the area put competition aside and joined forces for "cheer-a-thon" to benefit the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) at Mellow Park in Peckville.

And instead of spelling out team names with their cheers, the groups were spelling out "M! D! A!"

The event was organized by All-Star Cheer Academy in Jessup, and drew cheering squads from Mid Valley High School, Valley View High School, Abington Heights High School and Marywood University, among others.

"We like to promote the idea that our kids should get involved with the community," explained Christine Cherundolo, owner-director of the school. "We were looking for a charity to partner with, to help the girls learn about the value of giving."

With Labor Day and the perennial Jerry Lewis MDA telethon approaching, the choice became clear, she said. "The timing was perfect. We had all summer to pull it together and we'll have a check to present on Labor Day weekend."

Among those in attendance with Ashley Heffner of Swoyersville, who is the Pennsylvania "spirit ambassador" with the MDA. Heffner was so inspired by the cheers that, despite difficulty moving due to her illness, she gave her own cheer, to the applause of the crowd.

Donations are still being accepted. Visit allstarcheeracademy.com for instructions on how to make a donation.

The Valley View Barra-Cougars swim team (for kids ages 5-14) will hold fall/winter team sign ups Monday and Tuesday, Sept. 13-14, and Wednesday and Thursday, Sept. 21-22, 6:30-7:30 p.m. in the Valley View High School pool area. Registration fee required for sign-up. Call 351-6003 or visit www.barracougars.com for more information.

Get in Shape for the Susan G. Komen Race

NEPA Fit Club, 419 Church St., Jessup, has teamed with the Northeastern Pennsylvania affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure to help in the fight against breast cancer and get in shape for the annual Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure coming up soon. The program has been given the zany title of "Bootcamp for Boobies," and will run from Tuesday, Aug. 17, through Friday, Sept. 10. A majority of the enrollment fee will benefit the Northeast affiliate of the Susan G. Komen for the Cure. T-shirts will also be sold, with all profits also being donated to the society. The 30-minute workouts will be Tuesdays and Thursdays at 5:15, 6 and 8 p.m., Fridays at 5:15 and 6 p.m. and Saturdays at 10 a.m. E-mail mike@nepafitclub.com, visit nepafitclub.com or call 840-2586 for more information.

Golf Tournaments

- The ninth annual Jim Hicks memorial golf tournament will be held Saturday, Sept. 4, at the Skyline Golf Course to benefit two area residents battling life threatening illnesses: Duane McCoy of Jessup and Jim Fanning of Clarks Summit. Shotgun start at 10 a.m.; dinner and drinks following the tournament (approximately 3:30 p.m.) at McDonnells Grove. Cost is $70; $25 for dinner only, children younger than 12 will be admitted for half price. Organizers are looking for golfers, gifts, prizes and sponsorship of holes. Call 954-3701 or 282-3149 for more information.

- The Anthracite Historical Discovery Center's fourth annual golf tournament will be held Saturday, Sept. 18, at Sleepy Hollow Golf Course, Greenfield Township. Proceeds from the event benefit the center, which is under development in Carbondale. The captain-and-crew event has a shotgun start at 9 a.m., with registration beginning at 8 a.m. Fee is $75 and includes green fees, cart, breakfast, lunch, dinner, beverages all day, gifts and awards. For reservations, information or sponsorship call 282-6121 ext. 215.

- The inaugural Kevin Essig golf tournament will be held Saturday, Oct. 2, at the Skyline Golf Course, Greenfield Township, sponsored by Olyphant Hose Co. No. 2. Captain-and-crew format with a shotgun start at 9 a.m. (registration begins at 8 a.m.). Cost of $70 includes greens fees, course menu, beverages, awards, dinner and prizes. Dinner will be held at the Eureka Hose Co. No. 4 (East Green Street). Proceeds will benefit the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. Call 487-1769, 905-4274 or 489-4194 to register, be a hole sponsor or to donate.

Civic Center Fitness

At the Dickson City Civic Center, 935 Albert St., Dickson City:

- An instructional girls' basketball league for fourth-, fifth- and sixth-grade girls begins Sunday, Oct. 3, and continues through Sunday, Nov. 21. All games will be on Sundays beginning at 1 p.m. with fourth-grade teams and ending by 7 p.m. with 6th-grade teams. Free court time will be available once a week for teams to practice. Space is available on a first-come-first-served basis beginning Tuesday, Sept. 7 and ending Saturday, Oct. 2.

- Registration for the Lady Hawks team is now open and registration forms can be picked up at the center.

- Betsy's Bootcamp: Mondays and Wednesdays, 6:15 p.m. Betsy Czaja is a certified personal trainer and group instructor and runs these adult classes for beginners to advanced athletes. Babysitting will be available.

- Aerobics for seniors: Tuesdays and Thursdays at 8:30 a.m. Admission is free.

Call 383-1813 for more information.

YMCA Fitness

At the Greater Carbondale YMCA, 82 N. Main St., Carbondale:

The pool at the Greater Carbondale YMCA will be closed for maintenance through Mon., Sept. 6. It will reopen Tuesday, Sept. 7. At that time, aquatic programs offered will include:

- Arthritis Foundation Aquatic Program: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 2-3 p.m. for six weeks. $15 for members and $65 for non-members.

- Swimming lessons: Tuesdays and Thursdays for four weeks. Preschool age: 5:30-6 p.m.; youth: 6-6:45 p.m. $45 for members and $85 for non-members. Saturdays for eight weeks. Parent-tot: 9-9:30 a.m., preschool: 9:30-10 a.m.; and youth: 10-10:45 a.m.

Other programs:

- Zumba: Monday and Wednesday 6:30-7:30 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday 6-7 p.m.; Wednesdays 5:45-6:45 a.m.; and Saturdays (family Zumba) 9-10 a.m.

- 'Y Cycle' Classes: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6:15-7 a.m. and 7:15-8 p.m. Space is limited.

- Pilates: Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7 p.m. Pilates is a series of non-impact exercises designed to develop strength, flexibility, balance and inner awareness.

- Babysitting hours: Mondays and Wednesdays 4:30-7:30 p.m.; Tuesdays and Thursdays 4-8 p.m. and Saturdays 8:30-11 a.m. Babysitting is free for members and $3 per hour for non-members while working out or taking a class.

Call 282-2210 or visit www.carbondaleymca.org for more information.

At the Greater Scranton YMCA, 706 N. Blakely St., Dunmore:

- Easy Does It: designed for the "over 50" crowd. Builds cardiovascular system, strengthens muscles and improves flexibility. Monday, Wednesday and Friday 10:15-11:15 a.m.

- Silver Sneakers: fitness class for ages 65 and older. Increases muscular strength, flexibility, balance and coordination. Tuesday and Thursday 10-11 a.m., Friday 9-10 a.m.

- Senior yoga stretch: taught from a seated and standing position. Improves flexibility and balance. Monday 9-9:45 a.m.

- Gymnastics. Pre-school class: Tuesday or Thursday 4:15-5 p.m. Beginner/intermediate class: Tuesday and Thursday 5:15-6:15 p.m. Advanced class: Tuesday and Thursday 5:15-6:15 p.m. Pre-team class: Tuesday and Thursday 6:15-8 p.m.

Call 342-8115 or visit www.Greaterscrantonymca.com for more information.

Crossing Guard Sought: Blakely Borough is seeking to employ a crossing guard at Lincoln and Main streets in Blakely. Call 307-1690 for more information.

Class Reunion: The Valley View Class of 1970 will hold its 40th anniversary reunion Saturday, Sept. 4, 6-11 p.m. at Fiorelli's Catering, 1501 Main St., Peckville. Tickets are $50. Mail checks to Lorraine Maday, 200 5th St., Blakely, PA 18447. An "ice-breaker" party will be held Friday, Sept. 3, beginning at 8 p.m. at Duke's Sports Bar, 1216 Main St., Peckville. Call 479-8888 for more information.

Flea Market/Craft Fair: United Methodist Church, 732 Main St., Peckville, will hold a flea market and craft fair Saturday, Sept. 4, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Vendor spaces are available for $10 (tables are $5 extra). Lunch will be available for purchase. A bake sale will be held that day to help the Evans family with medical expenses. Donations will be accepted to sell at the church table. Call 489-0166 or 383-2119 for more information.

Ride/Picnic for Zach: A benefit motorcycle ride and picnic will be held Saturday, Sept. 4, at Polonia Park, 720 Boulevard Ave., Dickson City to celebrate the homecoming of 2-year-old Zachary Stein, who has been battling a brain tumor. Registration for the ride will be 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The ride will begin at 2 p.m. and return to the park at 4 p.m., when the picnic will begin. Takeout-only chicken barbecue dinners will be available from 2-4 p.m. for $10. All proceeds go to Zachary and his family. Anyone wishing to make volunteer or donate to this event can contact St. Mary's of Dickson City no later than Tuesday, Aug. 31.

Blood Drives: The American Red Cross of Lackawanna County will hold the following blood drives:

- Saturday, Sept. 4, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Forest City Emergency Service, 380 Railroad St., Forest City;

- Friday Sep. 10, 1-6 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church, 76 Salem Ave., Carbondale;

- Saturday, Sept. 11, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Veterans of Foreign Wars Post No. 7963, 278 Main St., Eynon;

- Wednesday, Sept. 15, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Penn State University's Worthington Scranton campus, 120 Ridgeview Drive, Dunmore; and

- Thursday, Sept. 30, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Lackawanna Health and Rehab Center, 108 Terrace Drive, Olyphant.

Call (800) RED-CROSS for more information.

Dance Club: The Northeast Social Dance Club will hold dances on the following Saturdays, 8:30 p.m. to midnight at the Disabled American Veterans Hall, 516 Storrs St., Dickson City: Sept. 4 and 18, Oct. 2 and 16 (benefit for The Women's Resource Center, sponsored by attorney Robert Munley), Nov. 6 and 30 (benefit for Disabled American Veterans, sponsored by The Honesdale National Bank) and Dec. 4 (benefit for The Salvation Army, sponsored by Paul and Doreen Vitiello). Admission is $5; free for members. Visit northeastsocialdanceclub.com for more information.

Labor Day in Throop: Throop Borough offices will be closed Monday, Sept. 6. Yard waste will be picked up on Tuesday, Sept. 7. Residents are asked to have yard waste curbside by 7 a.m.Senior Center: Mid Valley Senior Community Center, 310 Church St., Jessup. Regular activities: Bingo Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays 9-11 a.m. Tai Chi Mondays, 1 p.m., $5. Chair exercise Tuesday, 11 a.m. Yoga Tuesdays 1 p.m., $5. Big Bingo every third Wednesday, $5. Lab/blood work (bring your Medicare or insurance card) Wednesday, 8:30-10 a.m. Red Hat Foxy Ladies meet every third Wednesday. Pokeno and pinochle Wednesday 9-11 a.m. Ballroom dancing class Wednesday, 6:30-7:30 p.m. $3, Line dance class Thursdays 10 a.m. Zumba Gold classes Thursdays at 1 p.m. $5., Free computer classes Thursdays through Oct. 14, 10-11:30 a.m., individual time may be available 12:30-2 p.m. Birthday party every third Friday, 11 a.m. Special events:

- Tuesday, Sept. 7, free bingo, 9 a.m.

- Wednesday, Sept. 8, ball room dancing 12:30-1:30 p.m.; $3.

- Tuesday, Sept. 14, flea market, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.; tables are $10. Call 489-4415 to book a table.

- Tuesday, Sept. 21, bus trip to Sands Casino, Bethlehem, $20; departs 9 a.m., departs casino 4 p.m. Bag breakfast, gaming and meal included.

- Tuesday, Oct. 19, bus trip to Tioga Downs, $20; departs 9 a.m., returns 4 p.m. Bag breakfast, gaming and meal included.

- Sunday, Nov. 7, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. takeout-only pasta dinner by Pietro's. $8. Dinner includes: penne, meatballs, side salad and dessert.

Call 489-4415 or 489-2770 for more information or reservations.

Lions Club: The Eynon-Archbald Lions Club will hold its next monthly meeting Tuesday, Sept. 7, at 7 p.m. at Sebastianelli's Restaurant, 221 Scranton-Carbondale Highway, Eynon. All members and prospective members are urged to attend. President Mark Maslar will preside. Topics of discussion will include the pizza sale and plans for the harvest festival.

Choral Society: The Catholic Choral Society will begin its 62nd season Tuesday, Sept. 7, with a rehearsal at 7 p.m. at the IHM Center at Marywood University, 2300 Adams Ave., Scranton. The group performs sacred, classical, Broadway and popular music and welcomes new members. No auditions are required. Visit www.catholicchoralsociety.org and call 587-2753.

Senior Center: The Carbondale Senior Community Center, 66 N. Church St., Carbondale. Regular activities: Bingo Monday, Wednesday and Friday noon-12:30 p.m, Tuesday and Thursdays 10:30-11:30 a.m. and 12:30-1 p.m. Chair exercises daily 9:30-10 am. Also enjoy pool, darts, current movies and popcorn and shopping trips. Meals served at 11:30 a.m.; $1 donation.

- Wednesday, Sept. 8, Mohegan Sun trip, $20 ($10 for food, $15 for slots) includes bagged breakfast served at 9 a.m. (Suggested donation $1). Bus departs at 10 a.m.

- Thursday, Sept. 9, 9:30 a.m., blood pressure screenings.

- Thursday Sept. 16, 10 a.m., Kerry Snyder, physical therapist.

- Tuesday, Sept. 21, 10 a.m.: a representative from Morgan Stanley will talk about identity theft.

- Wednesday Sept. 22, 10 a.m., big day bingo, coffee and snacks.

Call 282-6167 or e-mail carbondaleseniorcenter@yahoo.com.

Veterans Service: The Disabled American Veterans (DAV) service office will make a stop Thursday, Sept. 9, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the DAV Hall, 516 Storrs St., Dickson City, and Monday, Sept. 13, 9 a.m. to 4 p,m. at Carbondale City Hall, 1 N. Main St., Carbondale. Veterans who have questions about benefits, want to file a claim or want to appeal a decision can avail themselves of this free service. You do not have to be a DAV member. Remember to bring DD-214.

Diabetes Program: Mid-Valley Hospital is conducting a four-part diabetes lifestyle program Thursdays, Sept. 9, 16, 23 and 30, 6-8:30 p.m. Daytime

classes are also available. This program is recognized by the American Association of Diabetes Educators and is covered by most insurance companies. Physician order and pre-registration are required. Call 383-5518 for information or to register.

Branch Chipping Ends: Archbald Borough will cease branch chipping the week of Sept. 13. No requests will be taken after Friday, Sept. 10.

Wine Tasting: The Justus Vol. Fire Co. will hold a wine tasting fundraiser Friday, Sept. 10, 7-10 p.m. at Maiolatesi Wine Cellars 210 Green Grove Road Scott Township. Admission is $20 and includes two glasses of wine, light fare and entertainment by Chris Gratz. Call 587-4545 or visit maiolatesiwines.com or JFC28fire.com for more information.

Family Festival: Blessed Sacrament Parish, 215 Rebecca St., Throop, will hold its fifth annual family festival Saturday, Sept. 11, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday, Sept. 12, 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Bicycling and skill events Saturday morning; pig-in-a-blanket dinner Saturday at noon; John Stanky & The Coalminers perform at 1 p.m. Lackawanna River walk at Sunday at 10:30 a.m. Bingo in the parish hall beginning at noon (entry fee $5). There will also be games, a bake sale, a basket raffle and food sales both days. Call 489-1963 for more information.

Church Dinner: St. Basil's Orthodox Church will hold a takeout-only chicken barbecue Saturday, Sept. 11, noon to 3 p.m. at Grattan Singer Hall, 700 Homestead St., Simpson.

Wall of Immigrants: Jessup Borough officials and the memorial committee will host a dedication of its recently completed Wall of Immigrants Saturday, Sept. 11, at 6:30 p.m. at Station Park, 103 Church St., Jessup.

Wine Fest: The ninth annual Great Vilna Vino Wine Taste will be held Sunday, Sept. 12, 3-6 p.m. at St. Mary of Czestochowa Church, 417 Main St., Eynon. A total of 25 local vintners will be showcasing their wares, along with music, novelty shops and Italian food. Tickets are $12; $15 on the day of the event. Call 876-1701 weekdays 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. or 876-2423 after 5 p.m. for tickets or more information.

Benefit: 'Ultimate Girls' Night Out': "The Ultimate Girls' Night Out" is on tap for Sunday, Sept. 12, beginning at 6 p.m. at Zumba Perfect, 110 Terrace Drive, Blakely, in honor of National Childhood Cancer Awareness Day. Sample wines, watch a raw food demonstration by chef Toby Landon, and a Lia Sophia show, take part in silent auctions, get a Mary Kay make-over and browse unique gifts from Kat's Creations and The Fanciful Fox. Tickets are $7; $10 at the door. Participants must be 21 or older. Proceeds will benefit local children battling cancer. Call 466-0658, 510-2327 or 575-1303 for more information.

Cookie Sale: Bradley Memorial United Methodist Church will hold a Welsh cookie sale Saturday, Sept. 25. The price is $4 per dozen. Orders must be placed by Wednesday, Sept. 15. Call 489-3262 or 489-8735 to place an order.

Author's Luncheon: The Novel Woman Book Club will sponsor the third annual local author's luncheon to benefit the Forest City Library Wednesday, Sept. 22, at 11:30 a.m. at The Stone Bridge Inn, off Route 347 in Union Dale. This year's author is Christine San Jose, who lives in the Honesdale area. She has written several children's books and edited a poetry anthology. Tickets are $20. Call 785-5590 or 222-3591 or e-mail jodihall@nep.net by Sunday, Sept. 15 for reservations.

Genealogy Society: The Genealogical Research Society of Northeastern Pennsylvania has scheduled the following speakers for its monthly meetings.

- Sept. 15: Cheryl A. Kashuba, the local history writer for the Times- Tribune, will speak. She is the author of the book "A Brief History of Scranton, Pennsylvania."

Meetings are held Wednesdays, 7-9 p.m. at the society's headquarters, 1100 Main St., Peckville. Admission is free and refreshments are served. The society is always in need of volunteer help. Call 383-7661 for more information.

Ethnic Dinner: St. Mary's Orthodox Greek Catholic Church, 522 Main St., Dickson City, will hold its annual ethnic dinner Thursday, Sept. 16, 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., featuring halupki, kielbasi, halushki, vegetable, roll and dessert. Tickets are $10. Eat in or take out. Advance orders requested; call 489-3301 or 489-4283. Group orders welcome; please call by Tuesday, Sept. 14.

Bus Trips: The Archbald Activity Club is planning the following day trips:

- Overnight trip Friday, Sept. 17, to Sunday, Sept. 19, to Woodloch Pines Resort. Cost of $307 includes meals and a show.

- Monday, Oct. 18, Woodlands Inn & Resort to see "Magic Moments" featuring The Four Preps and The Chordettes. Cost of $65 includes two hours at Mohegan Sun Casino.

Call 876-0337 or 876-1023 for more information about any of these trips.

Craft Fair: The Grattan-Singer Hose Co. auxilliary will host a craft fair Saturday, Sept. 18, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the fire hall, 700 Homestead St., Simpson. Vendor fee is $20. Call 282-1665 or 282-0358 to reserve a spot. The deadline is Saturday, Sept 11.

Class Reunion: The Dunmore High School Class of 1949 will have a buffet luncheon with open bar Sunday, Sept. 19, 1-3 p.m. at The Regal Room, 216 Lackawanna Ave., Olyphant. Tickets are $15. Call 961-0419, 347-1378, 489-4595 or 346-3406 for more information or to make a reservation.

School Reunion: The Throop High School Alumni Association will hold its annual reunion Saturday, Sept. 25, at After Five Supper Club, 280 Main St., Dickson City. This year, the class of 1960 will be honored on its 50th anniversary. Any Throop alumnus interested in attending should call 489-4146.

Legion Elections: Raymond Henry American Legion Post No. 327, 101 Willow St., Olyphant, will hold nominations for its board of directors Monday, Oct. 11, at 7 p.m.

Tax Assistance: Genevieve Lupini, Jessup, tax collector, will be available to assist any qualifying senior citizen with his or her state property tax/rent rebate. Many people do not realize this program, which gives rebates from $250 to $650, is available to them. Eligibility guidelines and assistance can be obtained by calling 383-1217 for appointments.

Lupini also urges residents to visit the Web site missingmoney.com, a database of unclaimed funds.

Plaza Pavers: You can still purchase engraved paving stones that will be placed at the nearly complete plaza at Archbald Memorial Park at the former site of the Archbald High School. Bricks measuring 6-by-9 inches can be purchased for $100. Bricks measuring 12-by-12 inches are available for $250; $275 with a business, club or school logo. The purchase of pavers helps to defray the cost of the park. You can choose to place your stone in the veterans area, the gazebo area or the memorial area. Download the order form at www.archbaldborough.org. Forms will also be available at Archbald-area businesses, at the Archbald Borough Building or by calling 876-1992.

Civic Group Reminders: Several communities are seeking the cooperation of all civic groups with regard to scheduling fund-raising activities in order to avoid conflicts and ensure maximum effect of the activity.

- Jermyn residents are asked to call the borough office at 876-0610.

- Throop residents are asked to call Phyllis Mikulski at 489-3355 for available dates to schedule events.

Emergency Kits: The Carbondale/Forest City American Red Cross is selling emergency preparedness supplies as part of a fundraising drive. It is selling an AM/FM water-resistant radio with weather alerts, TV-VHF, flashlight, siren and cell phone charger for $59.95 and a road hazard triangle kit for $25.95. Call 282-2520 to purchase these items or for more information.

Flag Kits: The Olyphant Lions Club is selling 3-by-5-foot American flag kits for $15 and replacement flags for $8 each. They can be purchased at Bosak's Choice Meats, 524 Burke By-pass, Olyphant or by calling 489-8816.

Scout Uniforms: Boy Scout Troop 21, chartered since 1928 to Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Parish in Dickson City, is asking for donations of used Boy Scout uniforms: shirts, pants, shorts and belts. Call 489-4626 or visit vbvm.org/troop21 for more information.

Cell Phone Dropoff: American Legion Post No. 411, 508 Church St., Jessup, now has a collection box for old, used and unwanted cell phones. The phones will be reconditioned and sent to our troops overseas. Phones can be dropped off at the post's collection box anytime.

The Valley View Elementary Parent-Teacher Association membership drive is underway. The PTA welcomes both new and returning members. The membership fee for this year is $6. The first official meeting of the PTA will be Tuesday, Sept. 14, at 7 p.m. at the Elementary Center.

Craft and Gift Fair

Valley View High School, 1 Columbus Drive, Archbald, will host its third annual craft and gift fair Saturday, Oct. 2, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Vendors should call 489-8452 to reserve a table.

Barber School

The Carbondale Barber School, 33 Salem Ave., Carbondale, will begin a new class on Monday, Sept. 13. Call 282-1003 for more information.

Dickson City Center

Dickson City Civic Center, 935 Albert St., is accepting registration for its before- and after-school program, designed to benefit working parents by providing an alternative environment conducive to physical activity, homework and socialization.

The staff and facility are licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare and is Title XX approved.

The center is a pickup and dropoff bus stop for children at Geneva School, LaSalle and the MidValley school districts. The center also provides morning and afternoon care for those attending kindergarten in the Mid Valley District.

Call 383-1813 for more information or stop by to pick up an application.

Private Preschools

- Registration has begun at Kinder Kampus preparatory preschool, 780 Scranton-Carbondale Highway in Eynon. Call 876-5577 or visit kinderkampusprek.com for more information.

- Registration has begun at the Rainbow Connection Preschool, 208 Salem Road, Archbald. Full- and half-day sessions are available. Call 876-1983 or 876-0633 for more information.

C'Dale YMCA

The Carbondale YMCA provides an after-school care program that is licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Welfare and follows all state regulations and participates in Keystone Stars.

Qualified YMCA staff supervise a variety of structured and free-time activities for children from kindergarten through grade six, including a snack, homework assistance, arts and crafts, games and activities (including use of the gym and the new pool). Call 282-2210 or e-mail mpcary@echoes.net for a registration form.

YMCA Care Programs

The Greater Carbondale YMCA offers the following programs.

- Y-Baby and Y-Tots: Both programs will operate weekdays from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Y-Baby is for infants less than a year old. Y-Tots is for children ages 1 to 3. Spaces for both programs are limited. Y-Tots children will be divided into younger (13-24 months) and older (24-36 months) toddler groups.

- WeeTots: Part-day program for children 2 to 3 years of age will operate weekdays, 9-11 a.m. and noon-2 p.m. It is not necessary for the child to be toilet-trained.

- Y-Pals preschool: pre-k program for toilet-trained children 3-5 years of age. Runs from September to June. Available for half-day or full-day classes. Scholarships are available.

"People to People is an organization that was founded by Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1956 to send kids to different countries to promote piece and to learn about cultures and their history," Kondrat said. Kondrat was nominated to become a People to People ambassador and "after being interviewed and having three recommendations, I was accepted. Some of the places I visited in Australia were the Great Barrier Reef, where I snorkled, I visited the Parliament House in Sydney and toured the opera house in Sydney. I visited a school in GinGin and Brisbane and interacted with the students who were in school. I visited Steve Irwin's wildlife preserve and wildlife hospital and I met members of an Aborigines tribe and learned about their culture." He also had a chance to try local delicasies.

"I was able to taste kangaroo meat and crocodile," he said. "It was 15 day excursion that was packed with lots to do and see. I have many pictures and made many new friends and now have lots of great memories. I had a wonderful time and learned alot about the people, their culture and history of Australia."

A number of local businesses made contributions that helped defray the cost of Ian's trip. Among them were Texas Roadhouse, Battenberg Furniture Store, Avery's Flower Shop, Fred Forte Insurance, Brenzel Insurance and Vladika Insurance.

Director Lynnette Lepre-Van Deusen, has 37 years of twirling experience and is licensed through the World Twirling Association, Drum Majorettes of America and Twirling Unlimited. She is a former Miss America preliminary judge and head coach of the Carbondale Area "Pizzazz Team" for the football season. She choreographed the twirling segment for the 2007 Liberty Bowl in Memphis, Tenn., and the 2009 Holiday Bowl in San Diego, Calif.

For more information and class times, call 281-9797 or visit www.lynnettestwirlerettes.com.

SCOLA Volunteers for Literacy is accepting registrations through Tuesday, Sept. 7, for its next workshop on how to become a literacy tutor. The classes will run Tuesdays and Thursdays, Sept. 7-21, 6:30-9:30 p.m. at 2013 Boulevard Ave., suite one, Scranton. Trainees must attend all five sessions. The workshop is also available on DVD and VHS for individual training. Call 346-6203 ext. 15 for more information or to register.

Flea Market

Queen of Angels Parish will hold a flea market Saturday, Sept. 11, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Sunday, Sept. 12, 9 a.m. to noon in Madonna Hall in the basement of St. James Church, 605 Church St., Jessup. Baked goods and porketta sandwiches will also be available for sale. Call 489-2252 for more information.

Flea Market

Trinity Episcopal Church, 58 River St., Carbondale, will hold a flea market Saturday, Sept. 11, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.. Lunch and home-made desserts will be available.

9-11 Remembrance

Lackawanna Health and Rehab Center, 108 Terrace Drive, Olyphant, will hold commemoration of the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, Saturday, Sept. 11, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Those planning to attend should RSVP by Friday, Sept. 3, by calling 489-8611, ext. 5304.

Marine Corp Dinner

The Northeastern Detachment Marine Corps League and Museum, 1340 Alder St., Scranton, will host its annual chicken barbecue Sunday, Sept. 12, noon to 3:30 p.m. Tickets are $9.50 and will be available at the door. Call 383-0036 or e-mail jtsofranko@msn.com for more information.

SAL Meeting

District 11 Sons of the American Legion will meet Sunday, Sept. 12, at 1 p.m. at American Legion Post No. 665, 901 Main St., Dickson City. Sons of the American Legion Squadron 665 will meet on the same date at 2:30 p.m. at the same location. Dues for 2011 ($10) will be collected. New members are always welcome. Commander Joseph Faltynowicz will preside over both meetings.

Library Programs

The Valley Community Library, 739 River St., Peckville, has begun taking registrations for its fall children's programs, organized by the youth services department. When children check out items, they will get a chance to win a "raffle backpack" that includes books and school supplies.

Upcoming events include:

- The Welcome Waggers therapy dogs Monday, Sept. 13 at 6:30 p.m.

- Mondays at 6 p.m. beginning Sept. 20: infant/toddlertime storytime for families with children 35 months and younger.

- Tuesdays at 11:30 a.m. beginning Sept. 21: preschool storytime for families with children ages 3-5.

- Tuesdays at 6 p.m. beginning Sept. 21: special needs storytime.

- Wednesdays at 4:30 p.m. beginning Sept. 22: after-school club for kids in kindergarten through grade six.

- Thursdays at 10:30 a.m. beginning Sept. 23: baby time for families with infants 12 months and younger.

- Thursdays at 11 a.m. beginning Sept. 23: toddler time for families with children, ages 13-35 months.

- Thursdays at 6 p.m. beginning Sept. 23: student volunteer meetings, for students in grades seven through 12 who wish to volunteer at the library and help plan teen events.

Pre-registration is required for all programs. Call 489-1765 or visit the library to register.

Church Dinner

Clifford United Methodist Church, on Main Street in Clifford, will hold a chicken 'n' biscuit or ham dinner Wednesday, Sept. 15, 4-6 p.m. Take out or dine in. Tickets are $7.95.

Youth Dance

Dickson City Civic Center, 935 Albert St., Dickson City, will sponsor a back to school dance Friday, Sept. 17, 7-9 p.m. for kids in grades two through six.

Fire Co. Dinner

Eagle Hose Co. No. 1 of Dickson City will sponsor a chicken barbecue on Saturday, Sept. 18, beginning at noon at the fire station on Eagle Lane. Takeout and our drive-through service will be available. Tickets are $8.

Fire Co. Dinner

Meredith Hose Co. will hold its third annual pig roast dinner Saturday, Sept. 18, 3-7 p.m. Takeout will be available. Ticket are $10; $5 for kids.

Bus Trip

The Greater Scranton YMCA will sponsor a trip to the Hunterdon Hills Playhouse in Hampton, N.J. Wednesday, Oct. 20, for a performance of Neil Simon's "Plaza Suite." Cost of $77 includes round-trip transportation, admission to the show and dinner. Visit the Y at 706 N. Blakely St., Dunmore, call 342-8115 or visit www.Greaterscrantonymca.com for more information.

Carbondale Area School District students will report for classes on Tuesday, Aug. 31. All students will report directly to their assigned homerooms (see below).

Carbondale Area Elementary students should report for class at 7:40 a.m. They will be dismissed at 2:40 p.m.

Carbondale Area High School students should report for class at 8 a.m. They will be dismissed at 2:55 p.m.

Student registration should be completed prior to the start of the school year. School offices are open from 8 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. daily. Parents should bring health and immunization records to the school in order to register.

Students are reminded to dress in accordance with the school uniform policy. Al students will receive a handbook on the first day of school. Parents are encouraged to read the handbook and discuss the information with their child.

Cafeteria services will begin on the first day of school. The cost of the school breakfast for students is $1 for those who pay full price and 30 cents for those who qualify for a reduced-price meal. The cost of the school lunch is $1.75 for students who pay full price and 40 cents for those who qualify for a reduced price.

All career technology students, both a.m. and p.m., are required to report to Carbondale Area High School on Tuesday, Aug. 31, 2010 at 8 a.m. Morning classes will report to the library for homeroom. Afternoon classes will report to regular homerooms. Afternoon classes at the Career Technology Center will begin on Tuesday, Aug. 31. Classes for all career tech students begin on Wednesday, Sept. 1.

Senior homerooms

Room 103 (Mr. Borosky): J. Arthur to S. Casey; room 104 (Miss Bonacci): H. Coleman to L. Kasheta; room 106 (Mrs. Lewis): N. Kendricks to E. Ogozaly; room 107 (Ms. Naniewicz): S. Olszewski to S. Selinsky; and room 108 (Ms. Wysocki): B. Snekeker to N. Zazzera.

Junior homerooms

Room 109 (Ms. Murakami): C. Allison to N. Dragwa; room 110 (Miss Wascavich): P. Eakle to C. Jordan; room 111 (Ms. Kozel): Z. Kovaleski to J. Post; room 112 (Mr. Gordon): M. Quinn to A. Stinnard; and room 113 (Mr. Dixon): S. Supinski to B. Yount.

Sophomore homerooms

Room 115 (Mr. Dodson): A. Adamski to M. Ciprian; room 116 (Mr. Kairis): J. Congdon to C. Giron; room 119 (Mrs. Gercken): L. Grace to K. Lloyd; room 120 (Mr. O'Rourke): J. Lynady to B. Sales; and room 120a (Mrs. Green): K. Savage to D. Wright.

Freshman homerooms

Room 120d (Miss Calautti): K. Andidora to E. Cimbat; room 141 (Mr. Kielar): J. Clark to R. Hynes; room 142 (Ms. Mcmyne): A. Ingrassia to E. McDonough; room 144 (Mr. Reckless): A. Miller to A. Schultz; and room 145 (Mrs. Paulin): J. Scirone to T. Zimmerman.

Eighth grade homerooms

Room 146 (Mrs. Rosler): M. Algayer to B. Emmett; room 147 (Ms. Brigido): M. Escott to S. James; room 148 (Mrs. Minor): E. Jones to N. MAndrew; room 149 (Mr. Dyno): K. McLaughlin to A. Sanderson; and room 167 (Mr. Schuster): H. Savage to M. Wright.

Seventh-grade homerooms

Room 120f (Mrs. Stanton): A. Allen to C. Durkin; room 120 (Mrs. Liuzzo): G. Degrandis to A. Ingrassia; room 137 (Miss Gatto); C. James to C. Morgan; room 139 (Miss Price): H. Mulea to J. Schwartz; and room 140 (Ms. Dombrosky): S. Scott to Z. Zazzera.

Library (a.m career tech students): I. Anderson, B. Cerra, A. Cintron, E. Coleman, D. Elders, R. Gigliotti, J. Goudreau, C. Holzman, M. Hunter, D. Mark, N. Middlesworth, B. Moran, T. Purvis, S. Sangster, M. Scotch, D. Sheare, A. Sona, J. Sona, A. Voglino and C. Wydeen.

The event will start Saturday with a brief ceremony honoring the victims of the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks at 10 a.m. This will be followed by a bicycling event for all ages, with an $8 entry fee. All participants will receive a T-shirt, hotdog and drink. At 11:15 a.m., there will be skill events for kids ages 16 and younger in the parish auxiliary parking lot. A pig-in-a-blanket dinner will be held from noon to 6 p.m. (or until sold out). John Stanky & The Coalminers will perform at 1 p.m.

On Sunday, the festival begins with a Lackawanna River walk at 10:30 a.m. Bingo will be held in the parish hall beginning at noon (entry fee $5) featuring prizes, specials and a cash grand prize. There will also be games, a bake sale, a basket raffle and food sales both days. Call 489-1963 for more information.

Tressler received his seminary training at the former St. Pius X Seminary, Dalton, and St. John Seminary, Brighton, Mass. He was ordained a priest for the Diocese of Scranton on Aug. 31, 1985. He celebrated his first Mass at the Church of St. Gregory in Clarks Green. He was named a monsignor in the spring of 1998.

His first assignment was assistant pastor at St. Patrick Parish, Scranton, where he served as catechist at the former Bishop Hannan High School. He was also instrumental in forming a food pantry at the parish to aid those in need within the surrounding community. The food pantry is still a vital aspect of the parish and recently observed its 25 years of service.

Tressler was then assigned as vice principal/director of religious formation at the former Sacred Heart High School, Carbondale, where he instituted the "alumni wall of fame," a development project that supported the ongoing educational program at the school.

Tressler also served as principal at the former Bishop Hafey High School in Hazleton; assistant superintendent for the Hazelton Catholic schools, principal of the former Bishop Hoban High School in Wilkes-Barre, pastor of St. Patrick, St. John the Baptist and Holy Cross parishes in Scranton and administrator of Bishop Hannan High School. In recognition of his commitment and contributions to Catholic education, the National Catholic Education Association honored him with the National Catholic Education Association Secondary Education Award.

Tressler serves as vice chair for the Holy Cross System Board, and as a member of the board of trustees for Marywood University. He also serves as the dean for the Upper/Mid Valley deanery. Bishop Joseph C. Bambera recently appointed him to the priests council and as a consulter for the Diocese of Scranton.

Tressler is the son of David and Joyce Mack Tressler, Clarks Summit.

Lackawanna Football Conference Division II schools Valley View, Carbondale and Lakeland, and LFC III squad Mid Valley have been putting on the pads for two-a-days and getting ready for the fall.

Three heart-breaking losses started Valley View on the road to a 4-6 season in 2009, but the experience gained by a sophomore-dominated team figures to help out this year.

"We were a much better team at the end of last year than we were at the beginning," Cougars coach George Howanitz said, hoping that having 15 starters back will mean a better start this year. "We should be a little more athletic, bigger up front and able to pound the ball."

Sophomore quarterback Liam Callejas started two games last year and Howanitz is confident the sophomore is ready to tackle the job on a fulltime basis.

Of the four valley schools, only Lakeland has a quarterback battle going, as sophomore Kyle Keihart and junior J.J. Rojenches are vying for the starting role.

"We have a lot of unknowns," Chiefs coach Jeff Wasilchak said. "But the kids are working hard and I'm sure we'll be alright."

With just two offensive starters back from last year's 8-4 District 2 playoff team, a defense with six starters back headed by senior linebacker Al Tuzze may have to carry the load while the offense finds its rhythm.

With more than 40 freshman and sophomore among the 60 players out, Carbondale-Area coach Larry Gabriel III is focusing on rebuilding after a 6-5 season that ended in the Eastern Conference playoffs with a loss to Hanover-Area.

"We lack experience so we're trying to get as many reps as possible, so we don't stay young for long," Gabriel said. "(Defensively), we hope to minimize the big play."

That defense will be led by nose tackle Tony DeGrazia and the entire returning secondary while sophomore quarterback Joe Gigliotti, who impressed Gabriel in a relief stint in the loss to Hanover Area, holds the reins to the offense.

Mid Valley returns eight starters from last year's 7-4 team that qualified for the District 2 playoffs, just three on defense.

"We're concentrating on defense now," Spartans coach Frank Pazzaglia said. "But everybody has experience, and on offense we should be a little better balanced. We should be able to run the ball better."

Quarterback Chris Washo is among the five starters back on offense and is a reason Pazzaglia has hopes of making a run at a division crown.