This is a small exposition on the unexpected and totally whimsical beauty of volunteers. I’ve been watching a particular field on my road, one that has been left un-mowed for several years. Especially now as fall approaches, the field is a riot of color. I’ve never seen so much goldenrod in full flower. Then there are the grasses, the dock and cow parsnip and various bushes changing color daily. All this is free to those who take the time to look. No labor or intention on your part — just a free gift that appears unsummoned.

The Gathering Place relies entirely on our volunteers. They not only supply the ideas but they work (hard!) making those ideas happen and be beautiful. The Gathering Place salutes its army of volunteers and plans to thank major donors and sponsors during our Grand Opening Weekend, Oct. 27-28. We will be open all day Oct. 28 during Clarks Summit Fall Fun Day. All of you who have not looked in on us yet – please take the opportunity to do so that weekend and witness the beauty that has appeared in what was the old fire hall, and more than that, learn about what happens there.

It’s no coincidence that the inaugural Art Show at The Gallery coincides with the Grand Opening, and that the theme of the show is “People.”All genres, abstract and realistic, will be represented. We hope for an exciting, eclectic show that stimulates us to think of new possibilities. This gathering together of “People” reflects our mission and honors the diverse population we serve.

Some of the classes that might lure you into the GP this fall (and still have places for you):

1 Noontime lectures on Clarks Summit History, The Underground Railroad, and World War II in Letters on Sept. 20, 27 ,Oct. 25

2 Noontime Brain Games Oct. 4 and 18 and Noontime Genealogy class with Maureen Grey, President of the Genealogy Center, Oct. 11

3 A Chance of a Lifetime to study Oil Painting with Mary Lou Chibirka, known for her vibrant portraits and skilled painting technique begins Sept. 28, a Thursday at 6 p.m.

4 Three chances to practice Yoga with Eileen Harte at Everything Natural — Mondays at 9:30 a.m., Wednesdays at 5:30 p.m. and Thursdays at 9:30 a.m. starting in October.

5 A Closer Look at Reincarnation with Kevin Creegan Oct. 2-23 at 7 p.m.

6 Kristina Laurito keeps you in stitches as she helps you knit a small shawl Oct. 2-16, 7 p.m.

7 Leslee Clapp leads a class in Repurposing Oct. 12, 19. See the possibilities in the worn out, used and discarded. In her other life as a poet, Leslee will discuss the mechanics of poetry and how to help you discover your own inner poet Oct. 18-Nov. 15.

8 Making a great Baklava with Eva Khalil happens Sept. 28; there are only three spots left.

Saturdays are also busy on the Gathering Place calendar. Hikes at the Lackawanna State Park Oct. 14, and Foraging on the Trolley Trail Oct. 7 will get you out and about in the colorful foliage season.

Strings for Kids with Colleen Ruddy is being offered on four Saturdays in October from 9-10 a.m. This is a wonderful chance to give your children the experience of working with a professional musician who is also kind and engaging.

The Gathering Place is also hosting our first all-day workshop Saturday, Oct. 7 when Linda Mesavage comes to teach a rigid heddle weaving workshop from 9 a.m. to p.m. You will wind on a warp, weave a sampler and remove your finished work from the loom by the end of the day, leaving with the knowledge and ability to weave on your own. A few spaces are open.

One of our teen board members, Hannah Linker, will present a class on make-up to those 14 and older Saturday, Oct. 14, 5 to 6 p.m. Learn tips to look better no matter what your age.

And finally: our Bus Trip to NYC! It’s on for Oct. 21 and we’d like to see you there. It’s more fun when you travel in community. Gather some friends together and plan a day in the city that offers so much. We leave the CSUMC parking lot at 8 a.m., and leave NYC at 7 p.m.. We hope you can make it. Right now there are plenty of seats available; register soon. As always, check the website www.gatheringplaceCS.org for updates and information.

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Community

Classroom

Emily Rancier

Reach the Abington Journal newsroom at 570-587-1148 or by email at news@s24528.p831.sites.pressdns.com