Thanks to Uncle Sam, the Howard Fire Company can get a new tanker truck.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency gave the company a $193,990 grant to help pay for replacing an aging, converted milk truck. Rep. Glenn Thompson, R-Howard Township, recently announced the grant, which came from the 2011 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program.
Collin Alterio, company chief, said in a news release that a new truck will allow his firefighters to better fight blazes in his coverage area, almost all of which lacks hydrants. The vehicle is expected to cost $250,000, with the company paying the balance after the grant.
According to Thompson’s office, grants are awarded “through a competitive process overseen by U.S. Fire Service subject matter experts” to “applicants whose requests best address the priorities of the AFG program.”
Suppers for sweethearts
Marsh Creek Brethren in Christ Church members would love to serve sweethearts a Valentine’s Day supper.
On Saturday, they’ll do just that at the church near Howard with their annual meal celebrating romance. Organized by Eagles Wings, a church group that plans special events throughout the year, the free 6 p.m. potluck meal will include special games for the couples dining together.
The church, located at 417 Summit Hill Road, can be reached at 625-0125 for more information.
It’s one of several churches around the county holding dinners in honor of the occasion. Port Matilda Baptist Church will have not one but two on Feb. 14. Dinners will be served 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. and 6:45 to 7:45 p.m.
Baked ziti, salad, bread and dessert will be free, but space is limited so reservations are required.
Call 692-4930 to book a seat — or, preferably, two.
Beat the blues with baked goods
Dead of winter got you down? The Curtin United Methodist Church wants to help.
From 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, the church will present its “Beat the Winter Blues” yard/bake sale. Sloppy Joes and other homemade food will be available should your seasonal depression require further treatment.
For more information, call Marty Lucas at 355-7970 or 353-0310.
Soup and a screening
On Feb. 16, the lunch special at Howard United Methodist Church will be soup and a screening.
From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., the church will have its monthly soup sale luncheon to benefit local missions. Soup, rolls, beverage and pie in the Fellowship Hall will cost $5, also the price of a quart of soup to go.
Call 625-2182 or 625-2722 for soup pre-orders.
At the same time, Medi Home Health & Hospice will conduct a health fair, offering blood pressure screening, blood sugar testing, foot assessments and other medical evaluations.
It’s your call whether you go for the combo.
Chris Rosenblum writes a weekly column about happenings in the Bald Eagle area. Contact him at crosenbl@centredaily.com or 231-4620.
