No typical block party

August 27
No typical block party

Kelly McDonough Abington Journal Correspondent

NEWTON TWP. - This one is not your usual church block party, and it is definitely not about raising money. Its focus is quite the opposite. It’s about giving. And it’s taking place at the Country Alliance Church in Newton Township on Saturday, September 6 from noon until the crowd goes home.

Joyce Degilio, coordinator for the Country Alliance Church’s second annual community block party, bubbled over with excitement as she shares what the church plans to offer anyone from any community. They open their arms wide to anyone from any community—not just the Abingtons – and those from any denomination. And it’s free. Why? “We’re a warm, loving and community church that wants to reach out,” said Degilio.

So what’s free? Hot dogs, chips, soda and dessert. Also face painting for the kids and any adult daring enough to put a dash of color on their face, balloons and drawings to give away free boxes of Angel Food.

Degilio explained Angel Food Ministries as a non-profit, non-denominational organization dedicated to providing food relief in communities throughout the United States. According to their web site, angelfoodministries.com there are nearly 13 million children in our nation who go hungry. They suggest we all tell our neighbors, friends and families about their avenue for food relief. So, Country Alliance Church will be doing its part in spreading the word…and the food. They’ll be raffling free boxes of food. Again, all you have to do is write your name, address and phone number on a slip of paper, at no cost, to win wonderful selections of high-quality food.

About her church and their mission, Degilio said, “…the kind of church we are – we just go out and reach out to the community. We’ve met a lot of people that way and that’s what it’s all about.” Even her pastor told her “Though you’re small think big.” And bigger they plan to be this year.

They have the local Christian band, Choose This Day, lined up through the afternoon hours at no cost to the audience. They will have a bucket out for anyone who wants to donate to the band, what Degilio called, a “love offering.” Partygoers can expect to hear music from the band’s new CD – their second.

The Clarks Summit based DIGIKIDS will offer services to help parents protect their little ones, should harm ever face them. It’s actually the only thing that’s not free on the menu. For a fee of $10, parents can actually get a credit card -sized CD for their wallet and a take- home finger printing and DNA kit. The process actually takes between two or three minutes and has been successfully used in locating missing children.

Newton police officer, Bob Reese, will be present, answering questions and adding support to parents concerned about their children’s safety. The Newton-Ransom Fire Company will have some of their EMS personnel on hand to do blood pressure screenings and fire personnel will give some lessons on fire extinguishers and their proper use. They’ll also, as long as their inventory lasts, give away smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

Precious Gems, a puppet team from the West Pittston Alliance Church will perform at 2 p.m. Their program consists of Bible- themed shows. This highly talented team will explore familiar television shows but with a biblical slant.

This family event promises to have something for everyone. And if the weather doesn’t cooperate, Digilio is quick to point out they have a big yard area with lots of tents.