First gift

New Life Assembly of God Church will again sponsor a "First Gift" campaign to provide local children with a brighter holiday during difficult economic times. Organizers are currently accepting donations from area merchants, businesses and generous citizens.The program will be held Dec. 10 at the church. Each child will receive gift bags filled with toys, candy and other donated items. There will also be cookies and hot chocolate available.For more information, or to donate, call (570) 668-4059 or 778-3867.Tax exemptionsThe Schuylkill County and Tamaqua Borough Per Capita and Occupation Tax Exemption forms for the year 2011 are currently available for Borough of Tamaqua residents.The exemption forms can be obtained at the Tamaqua Municipal Building, 320 E. Broad St., Monday through Friday, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Forms will also be available at tax collector Alan Keer's office, the Tamaqua Area School District Administration building, the Tamaqua ABC High Rise, Majestic House Apartment Complex, the Tamaqua Public Library and the Tamaqua Post Office.Residents must complete the form each year to qualify for the tax exemption.Exoneration forms must be submitted by Friday, Jan. 28, 2011.SS. Peter and PaulDec. 8 is the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, a holy day of obligation for Catholics. The Rev. William Linkchorst will officiate at two Masses that day, at 8 a.m. and at 9 a.m. For those unable to attend morning services, there will also be a Mass at 7 p.m. on Tuesday in celebration of the holy day.The parish Holy Name Society will meet next Thursday, at 8 p.m. The meeting will be preceded by a Mass, beginning at 7:30 p.m.Choir rehearsals are held on Wednesdays: Youth Choir at 6 p.m.; and Adult Choir at 7 p.m.First MethodistThe Rev. James Cavallero will officiate at two worship services this Sunday, 9:30 a.m. at Salem United Methodist and 10:45 a.m. at First United Methodist Church. Holy Communion will be celebrated at both services.First United activities for next week will include: Tuesday, quilters meet at 9 a.m.; Wednesday, senior choir rehearsal at 7:30 p.m., United Methodist Women Christmas party, 1 p.m., at the Normal Square Restaurant.First Church will sponsor a Christmas Festival of Music, featuring Audrey Christ, the church choir and the Heidelberg Bell Choir. The event will be held Dec. 17, at 1 p.m. For information call (570) 778-3546.