Toys for Tots coming to area

STEUBENVILLE — Ohio’s oil and gas industry is partnering with Toys for Tots to distribute donated toys to those in need throughout eight Ohio counties.

With roots dating back to 1947, the program has helped countless families during the Christmas season, officials explained. This year, area churches, businesses, schools and individuals have contributed new, unwrapped toys and monetary donations in record numbers, according to officials.

“While Christmas is the best day of the year for some of us, unfortunately for far too many, it is not,” stated Mike Chadsey, the program’s deputy coordinator and Ohio Oil and Gas Association’s director of external affairs. “Christmas reminds them that perhaps they don’t have anyone to spend the day with, or they find it hard to deliver on a promise to their children for that special toy. That is what makes this effort so special for those of us who work in this great industry. We believe to whom much is given, much is expected. Not only is this our pleasure, but we believe it is also our responsibility.”

“I have enjoyed partnering with Ohio’s oil and gas industry these last 10 years,” commented Deb Oberlin, program coordinator. “These companies and their people have giving hearts and have been an equal partner with the foundation. We could not do what we do without them.”

Local sites include the Scio Fire Department for Harrison County and the Jefferson County Board of Developmental Disabilities for Jefferson County.

The fire department is located at 318 W. Main St. in Cadiz. Pickup will be held Dec. 3. The event is being hosted by the Harrison County Williams oil and gas plant. The developmental disabilities board office is located at 256 John Scott Highway in Steubenville. Pickup has been scheduled for Dec. 10. The event is being hosted by Ascent Resources. Other hosts include: Expand Energy, Gulfport Energy, Infinity Natural Resources, EOG Resources and Pin Oak Energy. The rental truck delivering the toys is being sponsored by EQT. The fuel being used is sponsored by Blackrock Resources.

Those interested in signing up for the program can register online by going to the Toys For Tots website, clicking on the “Request a Toy” section and following the prompts. Forms must be submitted by Dec. 1 to be included. Questions can be addressed to Oberlin at ohtoysfortots@gmail.com or by calling (330) 418-2330. Those who have submitted a toy request but have not been contacted to confirm the pickup day, time and location, should visit the Ohio Toys for Tots Facebook page, officials said.

Taylor Swift focus of science center

PITTSBURGH — Pittsburgh Swifties … are you ready? Those 21 years of age and older are invited to celebrate the 35th birthday of Taylor Swift during the Carnegie Science Center’s 21+ Night: Swiftie Science event. Guests can enjoy a children-free evening between 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. Dec. 13 when participants will have the opportunity to trade friendship bracelets, explore four floors of exhibits and engage in an evening of eras fun. Among the activities planned are themed cocktails and mocktails, showing off your “Eras Tour” ensemble with a costume contest to channel your inner “Fearless” fashionista, testing your knowledge during “Taylor Trivia” to prove you are the “Mastermind” of all things Swift and taking part in the chance to “Shake it Off” with laser karaoke in Buhl Planetarium — from “Love Story” to “Anti-Hero” titles.

Visitors will see science demonstrations that will have “Sparks Flying” and make Swifties feel as if they are in “Wonderland,” officials commented.

Additional activities will include trying to spot tiny Swifts from every era in the miniature railroad and village and having full access to the science center’s exhibits. “Because even science is feeling 22,” officials stated. The cost to attend will be $20 for members and $25 for non-members when purchased in advance, online. A valid ID is required for entry. Tickets are selling “All Too Well,” officials concluded, noting they should be purchased as soon as possible by visiting CarnegieScienceCenter.org.

Church Women United to meet

WEIRTON — The Weirton Chapter of Church Women United will hold its annual Christmas meeting at 11 a.m. Dec. 6 at St. Thomas Church, located at 300 Three Springs Drive in Weirton. Following the meeting, a luncheon will take place in which all women from Church Women United will bring along a covered dish to share. All Church Women United members should bring hats, scarves, gloves and socks to the meeting, officials noted, saying these items will be given to needy residents for the winter season.

OPRA awards announced

SMITHFIELD — The Ohio Parks and Recreation Association’s executive director, Woody Woodward, has announced this year’s Awards of Excellence winners. The Friendship Park Reclamation Project won third place in the natural resources and conservation category. According to Woodward, “Competition was stiff this year and applications were subject to rigorous judging.”

State, county, township and city parks all submitted applications in the contest’s 13 categories.

Roger Hilty, commissioner and board president of Friendship Park, said “The park is honored to receive this prestigious state award. The project was also the 2023 winner of the National Abandoned Mine Land Economic Revitalization Award. The park is pleased to receive this OPRA recognition.”

The nonprofit, public-interest organization represents more than 2,000 board members.

Members strive to provide quality parks, recreational facilities and opportunities for all Ohioans, while preserving natural resources that positively impact local economies, as well as the health and wellness of its citizens.

First place was awarded to the Cincinnati Parks Conservation Stewards. Second place went to Ohio State Parks and the Watercraft Headland Dunes H2Ohio Costal Wetlands Restoration Project.