Isabella Novajosky, an 11th grade student from Lakeland Jr/Sr High School and a member of Queen of the Apostles Parish in Avoca, has been announced as the winner of the 2025 Christmas Card Contest organized by the VOICE of JOHN Ministry. The contest was open to students in the Scranton and Allentown dioceses.

Isabella’s entry included a verse based on John 3:16, “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life”. Her verse was chosen to complement the artwork by Linda Ross of St Matthew’s Parish in East Stroudsburg.

Isabella is also active in several school organizations, including the National Honor Society, FCCLA (Family, Career, Community Leaders of America), Future Business Leaders of America, and Students Against Dangerous Decisions. Her entry was inspired by her mother, Mary Novajosky, who encouraged her to participate after reading about the contest in the Catholic Light.

The Diocese of Scranton and the VOICE of JOHN Ministry have extended their congratulations to Isabella as they celebrate the spirit of Christmas.

Source: Diocese of Scranton

Source Type: Faith

Source Location: Scranton

Lakeland, FL

https://www.facebook.com/1053416166830335/posts/1304423358396280

Weekend Events Listed for Lackawanna County

A social post lists events happening June 25 through June 28 in Lackawanna County, Pennsylvania. The lineup includes train excursions, food and music events, festivals, tours, and a PrideFest pageant.

Hotel California Salutes Eagles July 18 in Lakeland

RP Funding Center in Lakeland is hosting Hotel California – A Salute to the Eagles on July 18. The event is promoted as a Father’s Day gift with tickets available now.

YMCA of West Central Florida Celebrates Fathers Day

The YMCA of West Central Florida in Lakeland, Florida posted a Father’s Day message honoring dads and father figures. The post also thanked fathers who “make a difference every day” at camp, at home, and in the community.

Lakeland cites tree ordinance for greener growth

The City of Lakeland said its Tree Ordinance requires developers to protect, preserve, and replace trees as needed. City officials linked the ordinance to maintaining tree canopy and environmental benefits.

Lakeland Marks Father’s Day With Community Message

The City of Lakeland, Florida, posted a Father’s Day message thanking fathers, grandfathers, and father figures. The city said it was wishing dads and father figures a wonderful Father’s Day.

Lakeland library schedules storytime sessions this week

Lakeland Public Library announced three storytime events. They include a main library storytime on Wednesday and bilingual and baby storytimes at the Larry R. Jackson Branch on Thursday.

Lakeland library hosts manga panel painting for teens

The Lakeland Public Library will hold a Manga & Anime Club event for ages 13 to 17. The program includes painting manga panels on June 27 at 3 p.m., with no registration required.

Lakeland officers receive donated gourmet cookies

Lakeland Police Department officers were thanked with gourmet cookies donated in appreciation of their service. The department credited Jeremiah with Spurzile’s Gourmet for the donation.

Lakeland Police seek certified officers for 2026 hiring

Lakeland Police Department is accepting applications from certified law enforcement officers starting July 6, 2026. The department lists a July 13, 2026 deadline and offers benefits and additional compensation.

Polk County Schools to hold online hiring event

Polk County Public Schools will host an online recruitment event for teachers on Tuesday, June 23, from 2 to 4 p.m. PCPS is also hiring bus drivers, attendants, and a limited number of van drivers.