Community briefs June 24, 2008

June 23, 2008 05:05 pm

— Gulf War veterans may apply for cash benefit

Pennsylvania continues to provide a benefit program for military veterans who served in the Persian Gulf war between Aug. 2, 1990, and Aug. 31, 1991; received the Southwest Asia Service Medal; and were legal residents of the commonwealth at the time of their service.
Eligible veterans who apply for the one-time payment will receive $75 a month for every month of active Gulf War service up to $525.
An additional bonus of $5,000 is available for surviving families of those killed in action.
For info or an application, call 724-662-3800, ext. 2211, or 866-458-9182 or visit: www.persiangulfbonus.state.pa.us.
Red Cross offering class on safe baby-sitting

SHARPSVILLE — A baby sitter’s training course is planned for 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday in the American Red Cross office, 517 W. Main St., Sharpsville.
Participants will learn to perform first aid and get emergency help fast; identify common safety hazards and prevent injuries; make responsible decisions; supervise infants through school-age children; choose safe and age-appropriate toys and games; perform basic care routines like diapering, feeding and dressing; prepare simple meals and snacks; and handle bedtime issues.
Cost is $40. Participants will receive a first-aid kit, babysitter’s handbook and a babysitter’s portfolio. Plan to bring your own lunch.
Registration or info: Susan Kidd, 724-962-9180.
Conneaut Lake group sets fair, fest, 5K

CONNEAUT LAKE — Conneaut Lake Area Historical Society will sponsor the second annual Craft Fair and Family Fun Fest from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. July 12 at Shadyside Campground, a half-mile east of Harmonsburg on Harmonsburg-Meadville Road.
Activities will include craft vendors, musical entertainment, food, pony rides and children’s games. There will be local entertainment.
Blacksmithing, bull whipping, tomahawk throwing, a ropemaking machine, panning for gold and a water pump will be part of Joe Purnell’s “Pioneer Experience.” He also will help children make a craft for Conneaut Lake’s sesquicentennial.
There will be a $2 cost for each vehicle parked. Proceeds will benefit the museum on North Third Street in Conneaut Lake. Its hours are 2 to 5 p.m. weekends, or by appointment.
A European-style 5K cross country race is set for 9 a.m. July 12 at the campground. Registration will be at 7:30 a.m. Race entry cost is $12.
First- through third-place in each age group will receive medals. A children’s race will follow.