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What’s going on throughout the area

Library announces

upcoming programs

The Public Library of Steubenville and Jefferson County has announced the following lineup of programs and activities:

— A family movie will be shown at 1 p.m. on Jan. 9 at the Dillonvale-Mount Pleasant Branch. Register by calling (740) 769-2090. A family movie also will be shown at the Brilliant branch on Jan. 7 at 5 p.m. and the Tiltonsville branch on Jan. 9 at 5 p.m.

— Story hour, for caregiver and children ages 2-6, will be at the main library on Tuesday from Jan. 5 through Jan. 19 at 6 p.m. For information and to register, call (740) 282-9782.

— Story Time, for children ages 4-6, will be offered at the Brilliant branch on Jan. 5 and 12 at 5:30 p.m. For information and to register, call (740) 598-4028. It also will be offered at the Tiltonsville branch on Jan. 4 and 11 at 5:30. To register at the Tiltonsville branch, call (740) 859-5163.

— Play and Learn, for caregiver and children ages birth to 3, will be at the Schiappa branch on Jan. 5 at 10:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. “Encourage your children to love the library at an early age at this one-hour play session,” said Jennifer Cesta, the library’s public relations coordinator.

— Play and Learn the Alphabet, for caregiver and children ages 2-6, will be at the Dillonvale-Mount Pleasant Branch on Jan. 5 at 11:15 a.m. This is a one-hour play session with letter-learning toys to promote early literacy skills.

— A beginner’s computer class will be offered at the Schiappa branch on Jan. 6 at 1:30 p.m. and 6 p.m. For information and to register for one class, call the library at (740) 264-6166.

— Get organized this new year with help from three speakers at the library this new year. Start in the kitchen with Chef Gene Evans of West Virginia Northern Community College, who will offer insight on proper placement of kitchen tools and how to better arrange cabinet and kitchen space. New York Financial adviser John Cucarese, meanwhile, will explain when it’s time to pitch dated financial papers and best techniques to file important documents so they’re easily accessible when needed. Tricia Damewood-Maple, mother, small business owner and Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce president, will share tips on how to balance work and family. Each speaker will talk 15 to 20 minutes. The program will be held at the Schiappa branch on Jan. 9, beginning at 11 a.m. Register by calling (740) 264-6166.

What’s going on throughout the area

A 4-H horse project means a horse

of course … right? Not necessarily

The Harrison County 4-H Horse Committee will hold the first session of the 2016 Equine Education Program on Jan. 31, beginning at 4:30 p.m. in the class room at Harrison Community Hospital in Cadiz.

“This program was requested to help people understand the variety of 4-H programs available involving horses,” said Sherri VanTassel, chair. “Many people do not realize that there are horse projects that do not even need a horse; additionally, there are various lease programs that allow a youth to show a horse without having to own it,” VanTassel explained. “The horse committee wants to help people understand that there are youth who would love to be involved with horses, but they do not have the place to keep them or cannot afford to have them. This session will help explain how youth can participate in horse projects at little to no cost,” she continued.

The Equine Education Program is in its fourth year. All sessions are free to anyone interested in horses. Light refreshments are available along with door prizes.

The February session will be held Feb. 28, beginning at 4:30 p.m. in the Harrison Community Hospital class room. The topic will be basic strategies for vaccines, deworming and what injuries require veterinarian care.

The remainder of the sessions will be announced. The program will include a two-day clinic in June with Terry Myers, who is “back by popular demand,” according to VanTassel.

For information, check out the Harrison County 4-H Facebook page or contact VanTassel at (304) 479-8098.

New Year’s Eve party planned at Greater Weirton Senior Center

The Greater Weirton Senior Center, located on Main Street, Weirton, will help ring in the new year with the Sands of Time band.

The center’s New Year’s Eve party will be held from 9 p.m. Thursday to 1 a.m. Friday, with food served at midnight. A donation of $15 per person is being requested, and prizes will be distributed.

For information, contact the senior center at (304) 748-3490.

Bezaleel Wells Chapter No. 1474

of Questers holds Christmas event

Members of the Bezaleel Wells No. 1474 Chapter of Questers meet for their monthly meeting on Dec. 17 at the YWCA of Steubenville, which included the annual Christmas luncheon and gift exchange.

Iris Craig, chapter president, served as hostess for the event. Members attending were Susanne Escobar, Darlene Sanders, Ruth Stevens, Jean Turrentine, Phyllis Foreman and Judy Irvin.

Guests and prospective new members were Eileen Krupinski and Roxanne Matysiak. Sanders entertained the group with Christmas songs she played on the organ.

The Christmas party and gift exchange replaced the usual monthly program. There will be no meetings in January and February, but they will resume in March.

Steubenville school retirees have Christmas luncheon, gift exchange

Thirty-five Steubenville City Schools retirees met Dec. 10 for a Christmas luncheon at JC Wine Cellars in East Springfield.

A gift exchange was held, and money was collected to be used to help three people for Christmas from Meals on Wheels and Jefferson Behavioral Health.

A discussion was held on collecting money to have a “retired teacher” nutcracker purchased for the Nutcracker Village at Historic Fort Steuben next year. The discussion will continue at the January luncheon meeting to be held at Margaret’s in Toronto. February’s lunch will be at the Ville.

What’s going on throughout the area

The following churches have announced their Christmas Eve services on Thursday:

— Sugar Grove United Methodist Church, county Road 68, Toronto: Silent communion, 6:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., candlelight service, 7 p.m.

— First Westminster Presbyterian Church, Steubenville: Candlelight service, 7 p.m.

— Harmony United Methodist Church, Mingo Junction: Service at 6:30 p.m.

— Wintersville United Methodist Church, Wintersville: Candlelight services at 6 p.m. and 11 p.m., “Glory in the Highest.”

— Richmond United Methodist Church: Candelight services at 6 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.

— Grace Point Ministries of Steubenville will host a first-time community Christmas Eve service at 4:30 p.m. at the Fort Steuben Mall. There will be coffee, hot cocoa, cider and music featuring Grace Point worship and Led by Mercy.

— St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, Steubenville: 7 p.m. service, “The Mystery of the Humanity of Christ Jesus,” guest priest, the Rev. Ben Wright.

— St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Steubenville: 7 p.m. Mass.

— Bell Chapel United Methodist Church, Steubenville: 7 p.m. candlelight service, “Tell Tale Signs of Christmas.”

— The two churches in the Wellsburg-Franklin United Methodist Charge will hold a candlelight service at 7:30 p.m. Christmas Eve at the Wellsburg church at Eleventh and Charles streets and another candlelight service at 11 p.m. that day at the Franklin church at 1231 Washington Pike.

What’s going on throughout the area

Moving On celebrates season with Christmas party

Members of Moving On, a group of widows and widowers, met Dec. 13 for their Christmas luncheon and meeting at Undo’s in Weirton with Lucretia “Toots” Ross filling in as president.

A moment of silence was observed at the passing of past president Norma Boni.

Jim Boulson gave the blessing and closing prayer.

December birthdays were acknowledged with a cupcake and song.

“The Meaning of Christmas” was recited to the group by Ingrid Koenig, who wrote the poem. Group members then exchanged Christmas cards with each other. Lighted centerpieces such as an LED Christmas tree, an angel with fiber optic wings and candle centerpieces decorated the tables and were given by the club. They were won by Herb Simms, Mary Lou Shutak, Janet Gilham and Peggy Sweeney.

Rick Pastre of Smithfield provided the entertainment, performing Christmas melodies and old-time hymns on the accordion.

David Kramarich and Ross conducted the 50-50 drawing that was won by Margaret Chapman. The Undo’s gift certificate was won by Astrid Bricker; a Lala’s gift certificate went to Boulson; and a Naples gift card was won by Mary Gaudio.

The Bath and Body gift basket went to Pat Prosperi. The gift bags were won by Anita Spadafora, Ann Zmuda and Richard Kimmel. The boxes of chocolates were won by Jean Baird and Delores Proakis. Dishes with candy went to Nancy Sollinger, Koenig and Fran Parsons. The gift bowls went to Mary Ann Whalen.

Ross read the secretary’s report and Chapman, the treasurer’s report. The next meeting will be held March 13 at Undo’s. There will be no meetings in January and February. The cost is $12 for dinner and $10 for dues. Those interested in joining the group may contact Janet Saner at (740) 537-4487.

Youth community Christmas concert at Mount Carmel

The youth ministry department of Mount Carmel Community Baptist Church. 708 N. Fifth St., Steubenville, is hosting its annual youth community Christmas concert 2K15 on Saturday, beginning at 5 p.m. Darren Holt will serve as emcee.

Garden calendars available

The West Virginia University Extension Service’s 2016 garden calendars are now available. The calendars offer helpful tips to gardeners of all experience levels and can be picked up at the Brooke County WVU Extension office at 840 Charles St., Wellsburg.

What’s going on throughout the area

Gadabouts have 103

for Christmas party

Elizabeth Shipe opened the Gadabouts’ annual Christmas party with prayer. The event was held at St. Florian Hall in Wintersville and attended by 103 members and guests.

President Dale Irwin emphasized that 2016 dues are due, and the next dinner meeting won’t be held until March 9 at St. Florian Hall.

Jim and Mickey Cope were acknowledged as guests. Secretary Rich Wyman announced that new members were Valerie J. Rowland, Joann Lewellyn, Gene and Anna Mae Matey and Nancy Saxon.

Tim Thomas won the 50/50 drawing. Door prizes furnished by Bill and Elizabeth Shipe were awarded to Jean Dalfonso, Jim Drylie, Ron Fallert, Virginia McMenamin and Jim Cope. Marge Stock won a tray of cookies donated by Evelyn Parise in a drawing conducted by Terry and Laura Mamula.

David Hunt and Rich Grimm of Rollback provided the entertainment, performing popular dance music from the 1950s through the 1970s.

Tour Director Regina Truax presented her schedule of 2016 trips, including:

March 19: “Sister Act” at Byham Theater;

April 9: Doo Wop, Capitol Theater:

April 15: Lady Luck Casino, Nemacolin;

May 13-14: “Sampson,” Sight and Sound Theater, Lancaster, Pa.;

May 22-28: Graceland and Memphis, “Home of the Blues;”

June 5: “Matilda,” Benedum Theater;

June 17: Sugar Creek;

July 4: Gateway Clipper dinner cruise and fireworks;

July 29: Hartville, Ohio markets and restaurant;

Sept. 7-9, Seneca Casino, Niagara Falls; and

Sept. 11-17, Cape Cod.

All Gadabouts trips are open to non-members. For trip information and reservations, contact Truax at (304) 723-0419. The Gadabouts club is for couples and singles age 55 and older. Anyone interested in joining or getting information on the club should contact a club member.

River’s Edge Garden Club

holds Christmas party

The River’s Edge Garden Club held its annual Christmas party for the December meeting at the First Presbyterian Church of Toronto.

Debbie Artman and Karen Thompson served as hosts of the event attended by 12 members and two guests.

Following the meal served by the women of the church, the club held its white elephant gift exchange.

There will be no meeting in January. Club meetings will resume in February at the home of Sherry Foglio.

Christmas Clothes Closet

ninth-annual giveaway set

The Christmas Clothes Closet is sponsoring its ninth-annual Christmas giveaway from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday at Sally Buffalo Park, Wallace Lodge, Cadiz.

“We will have toys, clothing for all ages, household items, trees and decorations,” announced Kelly Bozeman, coordinator.

“We are asking this year for a $5 donation to help us keep our shop open. That will include whatever you get. We also will be taking toy and blanket donations at the lodge that day,” she said.

For information or questions about the $5 donation, contact Bozeman at (740) 491-7537.

Greater Weirton Senior Center

holding dances Friday, Dec. 31

The Greater Weirton Area Senior Center in Weirton will hold a Christmas dance Friday.

The doors open at 5 p.m., and Light Touch will perform. The cost is $8, and those attending may bring a covered dish.

A New Year’s Eve dance will be held Dec. 31. The doors will open at 7 p.m., the Sands of Time will perform from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. A buffet will be served at midnight. The cost is $15.

For information or to purchase tickets, call the center at (304) 748-3490.

Interest is being sought

regarding community garden

Kyle Wales, an AmeriCorps VISTA participant working with the Brooke County West Virginia University Extension Service, seeks interest in a community garden that would include raised beds easily accessible to seniors and handicapped residents.

Wales is planning to apply for a grant for the garden, which would be located near Wellsburg Primary School, and seeks public comment on the proposal.

Comments may be sent by e-mail to kyle.wales@mail.wv.edu or in writing to the extension office at 840 Charles St., Wellsburg, WV 26070.

Children’s Christmas party

at Smithfield Legion Post

A children’s Christmas party will be held from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday at the Smithfield American Legion Post No. 396.

It is sponsored by the Legion and its auxiliary unit.

Santa to visit Brilliant

American Legion on Saturday

Santa Claus will visit with children from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday at Brilliant American Legion Post 573 at 210 Market St., Brilliant.

Library announces

upcoming activities

Upcoming programs and activities at the Public Library of Steubenville and Jefferson County include the following:

Play and Learn the Alphabet, for caregiver and children ages 2-6, will be at the main library on Dec. 23 at 11 a.m. This is a one-hour play session with letter-learning toys to promote early literacy skills.

It’s “Polar Express” night at the Schiappa branch on Dec. 23 at 6 p.m. Children are welcome to watch the movie in their pajamas. Hot chocolate will be provided. Register by calling (740) 264-6166.

Book discussion for the Adena branch will be held Dec. 21, beginning at 5:30 p.m. Join by calling the library at (740) 546-3782.

January’s Healthy Life

Workshop to focus on skin

What is the largest organ of the human body?

The liver, heart, lungs?

Actually, it’s your skin. On average, it covers 22 square feet and weighs 10 to 12 pounds.

As the outermost organ, think of the skin as the “human gift wrap.” It performs several functions, including regulating body temperature and protecting the body from physical abrasion, bacterial infection, dehydration and ultraviolet radiation

An informative and free program on skin health and foot care will be held at Harrison Community Hospital’s Healthy Life Workshop scheduled for Jan. 7, beginning at 6:30 p.m. in the hospital’s cafeteria.

Carol A. Teter, diabetes nurse educator, will lead the discussion on “Skin: The Human Gift Wrap.”

The free, educational Healthy Life Workshops are held the first Thursday of each month and feature physicians, nurses, dieticians and other health care professionals covering a wide range of topics such as diabetes, arthritis, cardiovascular disease and other health issues. Light refreshments are served, and reservations are not necessary.

The Feb. 4 workshop will feature a discussion on when and why to test blood sugar and how to act to bring those high and low results into range.

What’s going on throughout the area

Farm-to-Table

garden calendar offers advice

From seeds to the supper table, the 2016 West Virginia University Extension Service garden calendar, available statewide today, provides research-based growing and harvesting advice for novice and seasoned gardeners alike.

The free calendar is available at the WVU Extension Service Hancock County Office while supplies last.

Featuring a “Farm-to-Table” concept, the calendar includes educational articles, pest management tips and a vegetable variety guide specific to that month of the growing season.

“You don’t have to have a green thumb to appreciate knowing where your food comes from or how to grow it,” Steve Bonanno, WVU Extension Service dean, said. “This calendar provides West Virginians with the foundation and confidence needed to start a simple window-box herb garden or tackle their next big home horticulture project.”

New to the 2016 calendar are healthy recipes that correspond with the monthly featured fruit or vegetable. The recipes are provided by WVU Extension Service’s family nutrition program specialists and focus on simple, accessible produce.

By featuring in-season vegetables and fruits, Bonanno said the specialists are encouraging those who don’t grow their own food to purchase locally grown produce for use in the recipes.

“Whatever your horticulture or culinary goals are for 2016, our agents and specialists are excited to be a resource for you and a part of your journey, big or small,” he said.

To access additional resources for the calendar, visit anr.ext.wvu.edu/garden-calendar.

To learn about gardening and healthy lifestyles, contact the local WVU Extension Service office or visit WVU Extension Service online at www.ext.wvu.edu.

Luncheon buffet Sunday

at St. Paul’s Episcopal

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, located at 415 Adams St., Steubenville, will host its monthly luncheon buffet from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sunday.

Featured foods are “Hard Rock Cafe” potato soup, turkey and bar-be-cued ham sandwiches, made-to-order omelets, hash browns, pancakes and desserts.

The cost is $8 for adults and $4 for children age 12 and younger. Carryouts are available during the sale hours.

Cookie sale Saturday at

schoolhouse museum

A Christmas cookie sale will be held from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday at the Pleasant Hill Schoolhouse Historical Museum on state Route 213, Steubenville. For information, call (740) 283-1626.

Weirton Senior Center

holding Christmas bingo

The Greater Weirton Senior Center will hold Christmas bingo Dec. 22 at the center located on Main Street, Weirton.

The doors open at 5 p.m., and early birds start at 6:30 p.m. Packets begin at $20. For information, call the center at (304) 748-3490.

QDA Steubenville office

holding food drive

The Steubenville office of the QDA online school will hold its holiday food drive Monday through Dec. 14 at 2228 Sunset Blvd., Steubenville.

Nonperishable items can be dropped off from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on those days.

Items being collected include canned food such as meats, fish, soup and beans, peanut butter, dry pasta and rice, cereal, granola boxes and juice boxes. The food drive is open to the public.

Santa coming to library Thursday in Brooke County

Santa Claus will visit the Brooke County Public Library from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Thursday.

He will listen to Christmas gift requests and pose for pictures. The library will have a staff member on hand to take pictures.

Old postcards,

greeting cards

topic for Questers

The De-He-Wa-Mis Questers met at the Steubenville Country Club for the December meeting where Marilyn Ford presented a program on old greeting cards and postcards.

Ford explained the greeting card tradition can be traced back to the early 1400s when New Year’s and Valentine’s cards were exchanged. They were handmade and expensive. By the 1850s, the greeting card became more affordable because of the advancement in printing and the introduction of the postage stamp, Ford explained.

She displayed a variety of vintage cards that celebrated personal memories as well as local historical postcards. Members also added to the program with beautiful cards and entertaining postcards.

Vice President Mary Jane Ighnat conducted the business meeting where reports were given by Secretary Linda Kovach and Treasurer Joanne Stives.

A thank-you letter from Scott Dressel was read in appreciation of the donation to the organ restoration at the Grand Theater. The Questers toured the theater in October, and Dressel had explained recent progress made on the restoration.

Also discussed was the November trip to Elmhurst, Bob and Carol Lynn’s home in Wellsburg. Built in 1848, Elmhurst had ties to the Civil War. Purchased in 1983, the Lynns explained how they restored the home, room by room.

Hostess Frances Hughes was thanked for the Christmas display.

After a winter break, meetings will resume in March when Work Progress Administration projects will be the program topic. Jodee Verhovec will serve as hostess.

Toronto Seniors Citizens

celebrate Christmas

The Toronto Senior Citizens celebrated Christmas with a dinner catered by Brickers on Dec. 3 at the Stratton Municipal Building.

Entertainment was provided by Jim and Jim Donohue with a medley of songs.

Guests were Mayor and Mrs. John Parker, Don and Cheryl Clarke, Jeff Foster, Frank Vostatek, Doris Kosegi and Maxine Reidy. Mary Alice Meyer gave the blessing for the dinner.

December birthdays were announced. Cheryl Clarke won the gingerbread house. Door prize winners were Pat Pfabe, Bill Straka, Blanche Williams, Paula Krensavage, Karen Krause, Dolly Robinson, Paul Koltz, Mafalda Rocchio, Mary Ann Smith, Wanda Woodward, Mary Eckard, Joyce Dobbs, Laura Mamula, Jane Hanuscin, Lisa Rex, Ben Cicone, Joyce Grodaus, Barb Lyons, Debbie Custer, Mary Ann Parker, Rosemary Bonofine, Rose Dials, Jean Barker, Dee Fouts, Nancy Stanak, Irma Straka, Arlene Zahniser, James Eckard, Charles Barker, Pat Balser, Robbie France, Irene Miller, Violet McClain, Sol Robinson, Mary Alice Meyer, JoAnn Fogle, Pat Richardson and Ken Rose.

Cathy Grimes won the 50-50 drawing.

The next meeting will be held Jan. 14 at the Roosevelt building.

Follansbee library to show superhero film Tuesday

The Follansbee Library will show the PG-13-rated film “Ant-Man” at noon Tuesday in Wellsburg.

Armed with the astonishing ability to shrink in scale but increase in strength, master thief Scott Lang must embrace his inner hero and help his mentor, Hank Pym, protect the secret behind his spectacular Ant-Man suit from a new generation of towering threats.

Attendees may bring a lunch. Popcorn and water will be provided by the library. Call (304) 527-0860 to reserve a seat for the free screening.

John Hancock Pen Club

will meet today in Weirton

The John Hancock Pen Club will hold its annual Christmas and holiday celebration at 5:30 p.m. today at Mario’s Restaurant located on Main Street, Weirton. Those interested in meeting with Tri-State Area writers and receiving information about upcoming contests are invited to attend. Thy also are invited to bring a piece of fiction or nonfiction or favorite holiday-themed poem to share. For information, contact Pam Makricosta at (304) 670-8489.

What’s going on throughout the area

Manchin nominates local

students to academies

U.S. Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., has announced he will nominate 40 West Virginia students to U.S. service academies, including nine from the Northern Panhandle.

Among U.S. service academies are the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colo., the Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md., the Military Academy at West Point, N.Y. and the Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, N.Y.

“It is such an honor to recommend 40 of West Virginia’s brightest young men and women to the U.S. service academies,” Manchin said. “All of our students worked hard to earn these nominations and are determined to serve our country. Many are also striving to carry on their families’ proud military heritage. Today, I join all West Virginians in congratulating these hardworking and committed students, because a nomination to one of our elite service academies will develop these young men and women to become our next generation of military leaders.”

Manchin is recommending the following area students to the service academies. Final admission is determined by the respective academy.

  • Air Force Academy: Isaac Turner, Wheeling Park High School; Ken Wu, John Marshall High School; and David Park, Air Force Academy Prep (Ohio County).
  • Military Academy at West Point: Jonathan Benson, Wheeling Park High School
  • Naval Academy: Jacob Laing, Wheeling Park High School; Brette Geary, Brooke County High School; Mike Reed, the Linsly School; and Joseph Minor, Wheeling Central Catholic High School.
  • Merchant Marine Academy: Braden Welsh, Bishop Donahue High School.

Relay for Life team selling

candle luminaries

Relay for Life Team Family Jewels with the Steubenville Area Relay for Life is holding a “Light the Way” fundraiser to sell candle luminaries through Dec. 19 to benefit the American Cancer Society.

Votives will be available for pick-up from 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Saturday and 9 a.m. to noon Dec. 19 at the Marland Heights Church located at 3900 Bright Way, Weirton.

The luminaries will include 10 long-burning votives, 10 votive cups and 10 white paper bags for $20. Those purchasing luminaries should place a weight – canned food is suggested – at the bottom of the bag, with two to three inches of sand or cat litter over the weight.

Those purchasing the luminaries are asked to “light the way” Dec. 24, Christmas Eve, and light their luminaries at approximately 5:30 p.m. The rain date is Dec. 25, Christmas day.

All proceeds benefit the American Cancer Society.

For information or to purchase a luminary, call (304) 797-9739.

Caregiver support

group meetings set

The Alzheimer’s Association will be holding its monthly caregiver support groups on the following dates:

— Dec. 17 at 6 p.m. at Eastern Gateway Community College, 4000 Sunset Blvd., Room 1506, Steubenville.

— Dec. 22 at 1 p.m. at St. Mary’s Church – Parrish Hall Basement, 212 West Main St., St. Clairsville.

The free meetings are open to all caregivers, family members and friends with a loved one living with Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia.

For information, call the Greater East Ohio Area Alzheimer’s Association at (800) 272-3900.

What’s going on throughout the area

Salt and Pepper barbershop quartet

entertains Four Seasons Seniors

The Four Seasons Senior Citizens held their November meeting at the Serbian American Cultural Center in Weirton with President Chris Sklenar presiding.

Tony LaRosa gave the opening prayer and led in opening exercises.

A Thanksgiving buffet was served.

After dinner members were entertained by Salt and Pepper, a barbershop quartet.

Tom Maxwell gave the secretary’s report and Carolyn Shaffer, the treasurer’s report.

A report was given on cards sent and birthday and anniversary wishes.

Norma Yoho was thanked for providing the pumpkin pies for dessert.

The menu for the Dec. 16 meeting will be wedding soup, beef burgundy or stuffed chicken breast, baked potato, mixed vegetables and dessert.

The free dinner went to Nick Iannetti. Other prize winners were Bev DiBiase, Rick Sklenar, Tom Maxwell, Jane Barney and Carolyn Shaffer.

Members played bingo after the meeting.

Steubenville Art Association having Christmas dinner Wednesday

The Steubenville Art Association will hold its Christmas dinner on Wednesday at St. Florian Hall in Wintersville, beginning at 6 p.m.

The December artist at Historic Fort Steuben’s Visitors Center is Laura Thrasher. The next meeting and watercolor workshop led by Bill Koch will be held March 16.

The SAA does not hold meetings in January and February.

Beta Alpha Chapter members

hold annual Christmas dinner

The Beta Alpha Chapter of Alpha Kappa Delta Educators Sorority met Dec. 1 at St. Florian Hall in Wintersville for its annual Christmas dinner. President Sue Davidson welcomed the members.

Chaplain Janis Westfall gave the devotions.

After dinner, a Christmas auction was conducted by Michele Fabbro. The proceeds of the auction will be used for general club functions and projects.

Hostesses for the evening were Barbara Carter, Janice McClain and Debbie Wells.

The chapter’s next meeting will be held Jan. 5 at Malara Hall in Steubenville. The program will be a book exchange.

Special screenings set for Dec. 17 at Toronto’s recreation and senior center

Residents living in and around Toronto can learn about their risk for cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, diabetes and other chronic, serious conditions with screenings by Life Line Screening on Dec. 17 at the Roosevelt Recreation and Senior Center at 600 Loretta Ave., Toronto.

Screenings can check for the level of plaque buildup in the arteries, related to risk for heart disease, stroke and overall vascular health; HDL and LDL cholesterol levels; diabetes risk; bone density as a risk for possible osteoporosis; and kidney and thyroid function.

Screenings are “affordable, convenient and accessible for wheelchairs and those with trouble walking,” according to a news release. Free parking also is available.

Packages start at $149, but consultants “will work with you to create a package that is right for you based on your age and risk factors,” the news release notes.

Pre-registration is required. Call (877) 237-1287 or visit www.lifelinescreening.com.

Toronto Three Arts Club

scheduled to meet Thursday

The Toronto Three Arts Club will hold its December meeting on Thursday at the Riverview United Methodist Church on North River Avenue, Toronto.

The meeting will begin at 6 p.m., and the Christmas program will be presented by members of the club.

Mittens, gloves, hats and scarves will be collected for the pupils at Karaffa Elementary.

What’s going on throughout the area

Breakfast with Santa set for

Saturday at Mingo K of C Hall

Breakfast with Santa will be held at the Mingo Knights of Columbus Hall on Saturday, beginning at 10 a.m.

The event, co-sponsored by Mayor John “Wiz” Fabian of Mingo Junction and Steubenville Township Trustee Scott Fabian, is open to all area children and includes breakfast with Santa, Christmas music and bag of candy.

Those planning to attend should call the hall at (740) 535-8037 and leave a message.

Library of Steubenville, Jefferson

County programs are announced

The Public Library of Steubenville and Jefferson County has announced the following lineup of programs:

— Play and Learn the Alphabet, for caregiver and children ages 2-6, will be held at the main library on Wednesday at 6 p.m. This is a one-hour play session with letter-learning toys to promote early literacy skills.

— Babygarten, for caregiver and children birth to 24 months, will be at the Schiappa branch on Thursday at 10:30 a.m. This is a lap-sit program that includes books, songs and rhymes.

— Story Hour, for caregiver and children ages 2-6, will be at the main library on Mondays, Dec. 7 and 14 at 11 a.m. and Tuesdays, Dec. 1, 8 and 15 at 6 p.m. Register by calling (740) 282-9782.

— Game night for kids will be on Wednesday anytime from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m at the Schiappa branch. Play games on Wii, Playstation and XBox360.

Brooke Library offers activity table, showing of ’90 Minutes in Heaven’

Children are invited to stop by the Brooke County Public Library any time between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. Thursday and visit its Christmas activity table, which will have Christmas crafts, coloring pages and more.

The Brooke County Public Library in Wellsburg also will be showing the PG-13 rated film “90 Minutes in Heaven.” That will be at noon on Friday.

The movie is based on a New York Times best-seller by Don Piper about his life-after-death experience and how his faith helped him overcome excruciating pain and emotional turmoil.

Attendees may bring a lunch. Popcorn and water will be provided by the library. Call (304) 737-1551 to reserve a seat.

Christmas vacation Bible school

to be held Friday in Wellsburg

Organizers of the Wellsburg Community Vacation Bible School will hold their third Christmas vacation Bible school from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Friday at Wellsburg United Methodist Church, at Eleventh and Charles streets, Wellsburg.

The free event is open to children in kindergarten through sixth grade. Participants will take a journey to Bethlehem, where Jesus was born, and learn from participants of the Christmas story how God called them to be there that special night.

There will be crafts, songs, skits, stories and dinner at the beginning of the evening.

Pre-registration is suggested, and can be done by contacting any of the churches listed below or calling (304) 737-0488. Voice messages may be left and should include the names, ages and number of children who will be attending.

The Wellsburg Community Vacation Bible School is hosted and staffed by the congregations of First Presbyterian, Christ Episcopal, Wellsburg and Franklin United Methodist, St. John’s Catholic, Community of Christ, New Day Christian Center, Wellsburg Christian and First Baptist of Wellsburg.

Bethany College to hold light-up,

tree auction on Thursday

Bethany College will hold its fifth-annual Light Up Night and Charity Christmas Tree Auction at 6:30 p.m. Thursday in Commencement Hall.

The free event will begin with the official lighting of the tree, followed by a charity tree and wreath auction benefiting the Bernie’s Kids Toy Drive.

Decorated in various holiday themes, each tree and wreath is donated by students, departments or local groups.

The toy drive is named for late Brooke County sheriff and commissioner Bernie Kazienko and provides Christmas presents for local children in need. Last year’s event raised more than $2,500 for the charity.

Santa Claus will be making an appearance at the event and will be available for photos with children. Children can also write and decorate a letter to Santa.

Refreshments will be provided.

For information or to donate a tree or wreath, call Andrew Lewis at (304) 829-7631 today.

Brooke County Senior Center

to hold Christmas party Friday

The Brooke County Senior Center will hold its Christmas party from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Friday at the Follansbee Community House.

There will be food, fun and entertainment. A $5 donation is requested to defray costs. Call (304) 527-3410 for reservations or information.

Farm bureau group to hold

Christmas luncheon Dec. 10

The Jefferson County Farm Bureau Promotion and Education Committee is holding its annual Christmas luncheon at noon on Dec. 10 at the Farm Bureau office gymnasium, the former Bantam Ridge Elementary School, Wintersville.

Reservations need to be made by Dec. 7 by calling (740) 266-6603.

There will be a gift exchange of a $15 maximum with a “keep-or-steal-your-neighbor’s-present” game.

Mary Ellen Grafton, Jeanne Roberts and Jennifer Barnett are in charge of the arrangements.

WVU Extension Service offering pest management class for gardeners

The West Virginia University Extension Service will hold a free class for gardeners covering pest management techniques.

Topics may include mustard as a bio-fumigant, identifying weeds, invasive plants, fly control, good insects and bad insects and deer control.

Participants need not be certified pesticide applicators, but five recertification credits for an applicators’ license will be offered. Low participation could cause a class to be canceled, so those interested are asked to register in advance.

In addition to classes in Ohio and Marshall counties, classes will be offered on Dec. 7 at the Hancock County Extension office and Dec. 18 at the West Liberty Fire Hall. Call (304) 564-3805 for the Hancock class and (304) 234-3673 for the West Liberty class.

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