The Etna Neighborhood Association has been hosting a day of fellowship for the community for almost three decades.
Etna's 27th Community Day will kick off at noon Aug. 13, and run until 4 p.m. at the community pool and playground off Pine Street.
“Community Day is a longstanding tradition in our town,” said borough Manager Mary Ellen Ramage. ”It brings together so many families – and provides activities for everyone, young and old.”
The main attraction is free swimming at the Etna Borough Pool all day, said organizer Jan Miller, of Etna Neighborhood Association. Daily admission typically is $5 for Etna residents and $7 for non-residents, so the free swimming is a great bargain for families, Miller said.
Other free activities planned for the day include bingo and fire truck tours.
The Pine Creek Community Band, made up of local musicians ages 19 to 92, will play for an hour and the Shaler North Hills Library will provide activities for children.
The only things that cost money are food from the concession stand – nachos, pop and hot dogs are 50 cents each – and tickets for the silent auction and 50-50 raffle.
“It's just really a kind of a fun day with no cost,” Miller said. “People love to come in and be able to swim, no cost.”
The community celebration is hosted by Etna Neighborhood Association, which began in 1989 as a group of citizens who wanted to promote the community, Miller said.
The group also hosts movies in the park during the summer, and plays a role in other community celebrations throughout the year.
Miller said the association has a core group of 15 to 20 people but always is looking for more. The group meets on the fourth Monday of each month, at 7:30 p.m. at the First Congregational Church, Locust and Walnut Streets.
“The neighborhood association truly puts 200 percent into making sure there is fun for everyone,” Ramage said. “Like our Light the Night celebration, residents mark this on their calendars and head down to interact with their neighbors and community. We love our partnership with the Etna Neighborhood Association, who give so much to our community and this day is the hallmark of their dedication.”
Rachel Farkas is a Tribune-Review contributing writer.
