ELYSBURG - In July 2003, the coordinators of the Coal Crackers Club held the club's first picnic at Knoebels Amusement Resort. Members recalled the park from the "good old days" when it was known as "the Grove." There were 186 members at the meeting, including 14 new members. Old friends reunited and new friendships were formed that day.
This year's festivities began with the registration of guests by Joan Muskey, Doris Bamford and Daune Pasco. The group was welcomed to the annual picnic of the Coal Crackers Club at Knoebels by coordinator Ann Parks, followed by an invocation by Harry "Bizz" Miller.
Knoebels Catering Service began serving the picnic luncheon at noon. Members of the Coal Crackers Club said the pleasant Knoebels employees did a great job of serving everyone in a very short time.
Victor Boris, a well-known musician in the Shamokin area, was joined by members in the singing of many good old songs. Joe Bressi and Connie Yucha danced the polka. The Coal Crackers in attendance said that Boris' performance was much appreciated.
Special visitors of Phil and Connie Yucha, Thija and Ingrid Hodimont, of the Netherlands, were introduced to the club. Members welcomed them to the area and invited them to any Coal Crackers events in the future.
Following the entertainment, prizes donated by the coordinators were given out by drawings.
The event was closed by Muskey as she thanked everyone for attending the picnic and reminded them to mark their calendars for the next luncheon at Masser's Restaurant on Oct. 26. Notices will be sent to members.