CAROL SHETLER/The Luminary (Left-right) Chris Miller of Montgomery and Allen Smith of Muncy, delegates from Muncy's Brady Lodge #116 of the Independent Order of Oddfellows, delivered items to George Ellsworth and Dominick Flis, residents at Orangeville Manor, the home of 35 veterans.

MUNCY With the organization’s mandate to aid the community, members of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows (IOOF) Brady Lodge #116 of Muncy, donated items to veterans at Orangeville Manor.

The facility is home to 35 veterans, of which two enthusiastic residents aided in unloading donations. Some items were donated to the lodge while others were purchased. The booty included 12 cans of coffee, 6 cases of creamer, case of foam cups, 35 bath towels and 36 wash cloths, 40 tubes of toothpaste, and 25 laundry hampers.

Eighteen bedspreads were donated by Lycoming Home Sales on Route 405. The coverings had been used for display only in homes set up for tours by prospective buyers.

Delivered by IOOF members Allen Smith and Chris Miller, they learned the day previous to the visit, residents had been horseback riding at an equine stable at Buckhorn. There are also classes in arts and crafts, as well as two services per week in Bible study. Two churches within walking distance also welcome the residents.

The IOOF representatives were greeted by residents George Ellsworth and Dominick Flis. Ellsworth, originally of Wilkes-Barre, served with the Navy’s 109th Artillery. He was first on the ship U.S.S. Oak Hill, and later with the National Guard.

Flis, of Pittston, lauded the staff, was complimentary about meals, and spoke of the activities afforded the residents. In contrast to his former home, Flis said, “This is like the television show Green Acres. I like it here away from the sirens and the crime where I was.” The veteran also said his last job was as a dish washer at a restaurant in center city Wilkes-Barre.

Also from our area a week later, members of the Clarkstown United Methodist Church donated items such as snacks, puzzles, adult coloring books with markers, and reading materials including “Our Daily Bread.” The men were very congenial and their parting sentiment was “God Bless You.”

To make donations to the home, phone the office weekdays between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. at 570-683-5951.