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SLATE BELT COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS
PART TIME POSITION AVAILABLE
Manager
Responsibilities:

To understand the shared concerns of member organizations, to build consensus around activities that can be jointly pursed in the future, to ensure the legitimacy, value and return on investment of the Slate Belt Council of Governments programs.
Define and develop specific program guidelines for sharing of services, equipment, purchasing, etc. Provide a mechanism to offer members.
Grant writing

Remit resume to SB COG, 187 Blue Valley Dr., Bangor PA 18013 or email sbcog187@gmail.com

Today's Weather .........

Today - Sunny, with a high near 30. Northwest wind 11 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 29 mph.
Tonight - Clear, with a low around 14. Northwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.

Hazardous Weather Alerts.......

A wintry mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain will develop late Monday night and continue through Tuesday. There is the potential for a prolonged period of wintry weather Tuesday and Tuesday night, with impacts to the morning and evening commutes possible

Today's Travel Alerts........

(+) To Open (-) To Close

CURRENT CONDITIONS

FIVE DAY FORECAST

Pen Argyl, Pennsylvania, weather forecast

SUNRISE/SUNSET

https://www.willyweather.com/pa/northampton-county/pen-argyl.html

AIR QUALITY

PENNSYLVANIA - routes 22, 33, 78, 80

Crash on PA 33 northbound at Exit: US 22 EAST - EASTON. There is a lane restriction.
Roadwork on US 22 westbound at Exit: 13TH STREET. There is a ramp restriction.
Roadwork on PA 33 southbound between Exit: HECKTOWN ROAD and Exit: WILLIAM PENN HIGHWAY. There is a traffic disruption.
Roadwork on PA 33 northbound between Exit: WILLIAM PENN HIGHWAY and Exit: HECKTOWN ROAD. There is a traffic disruption.
Roadwork on US 22 westbound between 1 miles EAST of Exit: FULLERTON AVENUE and Exit: PA 145 NORTH - MACARTHUR RD. There is a traffic disruption
Roadwork on US 22 eastbound between Exit: PA 145 SOUTH - 7TH STREET/MACARTHUR RD and 1 miles WEST of Exit: AIRPORT ROAD SOUTH. There is a traffic disruption..

new jersey - routes 78, 80

slate Belt - scheduled penndot work

Roseto's Engle bids for
County Council Seat
  Dan Engle has announced his candidacy for the open seat for Northampton County Council - District 4 which consists of the Slate Belt area, Bushkill Township, Upper Nazareth, Bath, Chapman, Moore Township, Lehigh Township and Walnutport.
Engle is a fourth-generation Union member of Boilermakers Local 28 since 2002, who has been involved in many community organizations over the past eight years including coaching for children's sports activities, and has been a Roseto Borough Council Member for the past two years. Engle says the motto he lives by is to "work, serve and lead productively and responsibly".
Engle says there is a lot of untapped potential in Northampton County, specifically within District 4, for growth and revitalization.
“As I learned during my apprenticeship, when there's work that needs to be done, it's time to jump in and help to get it done, Engle said”
Engle has made a promise to the residents of Northampton County that he will continue to serve with transparency, integrity and respect. As he has done on Roseto Borough Council, he says he will continue to listen to the issues that are most important to his constituents. He says that he is willing to work hard to bring about fair and effective policy in Northampton County.
  The issues he wants to address are the needs and rights of individuals, like economic vitalization, environmental issues and by supporting those working paycheck to paycheck. Engle also wants to ensure that contracting is done responsibly, protecting the taxpayers while ensuring workers are protected.
Engle had been considering a run in recent months, but the final decision came in recent weeks when a number of friends and community leaders encouraged him to run.
“District 4 needs a strong voice in Northampton County," he said. "We need problem solvers and common sense advocates for the people in District 4.”
For more information, email Engle at engle4noco4th@gmailcom or visit Facebook at fb.me/engle4noco4th. The public is also able to join him at his kick-off on Thursday, February 21 from 7pm-10pm at the Scorecard located at 130 North Broadway, Wind Gap.

Today In The Slate Belt........

Wood Burning Class
Join the girls at Bloom on Saturday, February 9th for a wood burning class. Beginners welcome to attend - try out a new way to be creative and make something personal. Cost of $25 includes supplies and instruction. Every purchase benefits our mission to help women survivors of violence and addiction.
REGISTER HERE

Winter Plant Hike
Saturday, February 9 at 10:00am to 12:00pm.  Join us as we take a walk through the woods and fields of Jacobsburg in search of winter plants that provide food for birds and other animals as well as a few that can be used in a survival situation. Dress for the weather and wear comfortable hiking shoes. If we have snow we will hike in snowshoes! Registration is required.
You can register for community programs online at http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/. If you need an accommodation to participate in a program please contact the park office at 610-746-2801 or jacobsburgsp@pa.gov. With at least three days notice, interpreters for people who are deaf or hard of hearing are available for educational programs.

Winter Tracking
Saturday, February 9 at 1:00pm to 3:00pm.  Could you tell if a bobcat was in the area? An owl? Join us as we walk through Jacobsburg in search of animal tracks and signs. Participants should dress for the weather and wear comfortable hiking shoes. If we have snow we will walk in snowshoes! Registration is required.
You can register for community programs online at http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/. If you need an accommodation to participate in a program please contact the park office at 610-746-2801 or jacobsburgsp@pa.gov. With at least three days notice, interpreters for people who are deaf or hard of hearing are available for educational programs.

Liztech Bingo
12th Annual Liztech Bingo, Sat. Feb. 9, at Portland Hook & Ladder. Advance tickets $25, Doors open at 11am, Bingo 1pm. Kitchen open. For info www.portlandhookandladder.com. To purchase advanced tickets call or text Stephanie @ 610-216-6716 or email liztech@portlandhookandladder.com. Portland Hook & Ladder Bingo Hall, 111 State St, Portland PA

Heritage Center Event
Mike Ortoski and John Mauser will present a “Progress Report on Lake Minsi” on February 10th at 2 pm in the Heritage Center.

Come See "Noah"
On Sunday, February 10th at 7:00 pm Grace United Methodist Church at 404 E. Mountain Avenue in Pen Argyl will be showing Sight and Sound’s production of “Noah” in the sanctuary. Mark this on your calendars and let your friends and neighbors know. There is no charge for this evening of fellowship. Refreshments will be served. The snow date will be Sunday, February 17th.

Texas Roadhouse Fundraiser
Come out and support North Bangor Fire Company at Texas Roadhouse in Bethlehem Twp on February 21st between 3pm-10pm. Mention to the waiter or waitress that you are there to support the fundraiser for North Bangor Fire Company and the fire company will receive 10% of your bill. Thank you all for your continued support and hope to see everyone there.

Sportsman's Banquet
The Mount Bethel Volunteer Fire Company will be holding its annual Sportsman's Banquet on Saturay, March 16th. Doors will open at 4 pm and dinner will be served at 6 pm. Dinner will be catered by Hillside Smokehouse and firearms by Communale's.
Please note: There are two separate tickets this year. $50.00 General Admission ticket which includes dinner and a chance to win one of 30 prizes and a $20 raffle ticket good for the a chance to win one of the 30 prizes offered. There is no admittance with the $20 ticket.
Tickets may be purchased from any member of the fire department, at the Mount Bethel fire station, Teel Realty or Teel Auctions. There will be reserved seating for groups of 8 or more. For a mail in application, go to http://mountbethelfire.com/sportsman-banquet-raffle/.

Today's Regular Events.....

Blue Mountain Library - Open 10-12
Bangor Public Library - Open 10-4
Bangor Yard Waste - Dump in container at Bangor Park, 8-12.
Slate Belt YMCA -8-4
Slate Belt Heritage Center - Open 12-3

Full Calendar

Today's Sports ........
February 9
(Colonial League Quarterfinal)
Girls Basketball
Wilson at Bangor 5:00pm
Boys Basketball
Wilson at Bangor 6:45

Senior Center Today

None

Town Topics Sports.....

See photos and stats of Pen Argyl's near upset the Bangor Boys on Senior night PHOTO GALLERY and Pen Argyl Girls Senior night PHOTO GALLERY. Now at towntopicssports.com

Eagle Cam......

The Live-streamed Eagle cam from Hanover Pa. is back for its fifth year. Sightings have already been recorded. They are currently in their nest-building phase. Eggs are likely to be laid in mid to late February. Incubation time is about 35 days, meaning the eggs would likely hatch some time in late March. Click on the graphic to see the nest in real time.

Bangor Sr Honored for Fight Against Leukemia.....

According to Channel 69's Twitter feed, Bangor Senior Sal Schippers, pictured above with parents Brian and SalliAnn at the Bangor High School Wrestling Senior Night Thursday, was also honored for his fight against leukemia since his freshman year. This week he was hospitalized and was released just in time to come to senior night. (See more at towntopicssports.com ) Sbtt Photo Emily Dario

Bangor Junior Varsity Coach Alyssa Pellegrino recently won her 100th game.

Officials prepare for the Elks District Hoop Shoot. Photo - The Belt and Beyond

Roseto Ice Rink Opens
The Roseto ice rink is officially OPEN. Weather permitting we will be open daily from 8:00am - 7:00pm. Keep in mind we do not have skate rentals so bring your own. There is no cost to skate at the park. The ice rink is located under the pavilion at the Roseto Ball Park. Located off of McKinley and Denisco Streets. Only the main gate is open so enter off of Denisco Street. There are no bathroom facilities.

S-Pen May Soon Have Camera
With its Galaxy Note 9, Samsung brought Bluetooth functionality to its celebrated S Pen, allowing users to use the stylus as a long-range shutter button – perfect for taking selfies and group photos from a distance.
Now, it appears that Samsung is looking to expand the S Pen's photo taking functionality with the inclusion of a built-in camera, according to a patent that was officially granted today by the United States Patent and Trademark Office.
As reported by Patently Mobile, the patent, which was originally filed in February of 2017, involves an "electric pen device" with an "optical system including a lens and an image sensor", allowing a camera to be "controlled from the external electronic device."
Optical zoom functionality has long been considered an obstacle for phone manufacturers, due to the added thickness it brings to a handset's form factor.
However, moving that optical zoom functionality to an external device (such as the Note Series' famous S Pen) would cleverly side-step this hurdle entirely. If used for selfies, it could also make pinhole cameras and notch cutouts a thing of the past, at least in theory.
Of course, it's been two years since this patent was initially filed, so there's no guarantee that Samsung is still planning to implement a camera in its S Pen in the Galaxy Note 10 (or any other Note for that matter). Still, it doesn't hurt to dream!

Julia Antonoli holds a basketball presented to her and her parents in honor her late brother, Jonathan, during a brief ceremony prior to the boys game with Wilson.

Eleven students represented the Pen Argyl Area School District in the Northampton County Chorus Festival held at Moravian Academy January 3rd-5th. (Back Row Maurice Whan, Hunter Weaver, Nathan Dale, Amanda Larsen, Abigail Fritz. Front Row Joey DiAngelo, Karin Guide, Amanda Pysher, Rebecca Stinson, Kira Findon, Liam Giraldo)

Recent Stories of Slate Belt Interest.......
(Click "+" to Open, click "-" to close)

FUNDING FOR LAKE MINSI, BEAR SWAMP PARK

Lamont McClure and the Department of Parks & Recreation are pleased to announce the awarding of $275,000 in grants from the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation & Natural Resources (DCNR).
“The future of Northampton County is green,” says Lamont McClure. “It is important that we act now to preserve our open spaces and natural land. These grants will help ensure that our parks will be around for future generations to enjoy.”
One grant, for $75,000, will be used to prepare a Greenway and Stewardship Plan for Minsi Lake Park, Bear Swamp Park and Tott’s Gap Corridor. All three sites are located in Upper Mount Bethel Township.
The other grant, for $200,000, will be used for improvements to Minsi Lake Park. In March 2018, Northampton County Council released $500,000 as matching funds for grants from DCNR and other organizations. Combined with state funds of $4,000,000, the money will be used for dam structure improvements and rejuvenation of the surrounding park lands.
Minsi Lake is one of only two public lakes in Northampton County. It was built by the PA Fish & Boat Commission (PFBC) in 1970 for public recreation, and consists of a 117-acre lake maintained by PFCB, and 194 acres of surrounding parkland which is leased by the County.
When completed, improvements to the site will include a fishing pier, kayak launch, hiking trails, picnic areas and restrooms. In-lake habitats for fish and turtles are also being constructed with donations raised by Friends of Minsi Lake (FOML), a 501c3 organization. After the PA Department of Environmental Protection deemed the dam structurally deficient, the lake was drained in the spring of 2017 with over 5,000 pounds of fish relocated elsewhere. The dam project is scheduled to be completed in the fall of 2019 with a new spillway which can better withstand a maximum flood event. Lake Minsi’s east shore is currently open to the public for hiking, birdwatching and other recreational activities

WNV Positive Tests Up 500%

Pennsylvania’s Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), has released the final counts for their surveys of West Nile Virus (WNV). With the wet weather, 2018 was one of the worst years to date for mosquitoes carrying the virus.
A sampling of Northampton County mosquito pools turned up 83 positive results compared to only 18 reported in 2016. “We take any threat to public health seriously,” says County Executive Lamont McClure. “Northampton County is committed to preventing the transmission of West Nile Virus to humans..."
Across Pennsylvania in 2018, there were 115 human cases of WNV recorded, with 8 deaths. The DEP reported a total of 107 avian (bird) cases and 108 veterinary cases of the virus. No human, avian or veterinary cases of WNV were reported in Northampton County. WNV was first detected in the U.S. in 1999 and affects birds, humans, horses and other mammals.
In humans, 80% of the cases are show no symptoms and 20% involve non-neuroinvasive illness. Less than 1% of cases result in conditions such as encephalitis which can cause paralysis and even death. There were nationwide epidemics of the virus in 2003 and 2012.
Adult mosquito surveys are conducted from May through October, testing them for mosquito-borne diseases. Field Techs focus first on standing water, where mosquitoes lay their eggs, taking samples to test for the presence of the virus. Spraying does not take place until an action threshold, a high enough percentage of positive mosquitoes indicating a threat of humans, is reached. This August, high numbers of positives were detected in the Lehigh Valley so spraying began in hot spots.
Homeowners should drain any source of standing water on their property, including turning over buckets and pools and tossing unnecessary items and trash. Toys, pots, cans, tire swings and plugged gutters make for excellent mosquito breeding habitats. Mosquitoes can breed in as small a space as a soda bottle cap.

nominations for the 1885 club

1885 Club Accepting Nominations
The Bangor Area High School Alumni Association is looking for nominations for induction into the 2019 "1885 Club Hall of Fame." In 1998, the members of the Bangor Area High School Alumni Association began to search for a way to honor graduates who have distinguished themselves through public service, scholarship, and recognition in their chosen fields of work.
Discussions naturally led to creating a Hall of Fame for such individuals. Concerned about possible confusion with the Athletic Hall of Fame, however, the committee began to seek ways to create a different type of recognition with its own unique distinction. From this collaboration, "The 1885 Club" was born. Named in honor of the first year in which a class of students graduated from Bangor High School, this exclusive club honors distinguished alumni and holds these individuals as outstanding examples for others to follow. Through the creation of "The 1885 Club" the Alumni Association underscores and upholds the fact that graduates of Bangor Area High School have been making tremendous contributions to mankind for more than 133 years. We reserve a special category for educators and administrators who have served the Bangor Area School District over its long history.
To nominate someone for either of these awards, please go to the Bangor Area School District web site, bangorslaters.com, click on the Alumni icon (under Quick Links) and then click on the 1885 Club. There you will find a printable form. The form must be filled out completely for your nominee to be considered. Mail the completed form to the address shown or forward it to Carole J. Hontz at Bangor Area High School, 187 Five Points Richmond Road, Bangor, PA 18013-5224. Nominations can also be e mailed to hontzc@bangorsd.org

BAHS STUDENTS QUALIFY FOR DISTRICT CHORUS

Fifteen Bangor Area High School students were selected to participate in the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association District 10 Chorus. The concerts will be held at Exeter Township High School in Reading on February 8th and 9th. They were among over 900 students who auditioned from schools in the counties of Berks, Carbon, Lehigh, Monroe, Northampton, Pike, and Schuylkill. Of that, 200 were selected to create the District 10 Chorus. Top row: Abigail Heald, Aimee Bealer, Charles Fassl, Mason Cruz, Joshua Martinez, Andrea Morokutti, Lindsay Hoffer Front row: Heather Heath, Deja Breitfeller, Kristen Stopfer, Michael Spagnola, Hannah Bledsoe, Cathianne McKenna, Brookel Sabella Missing: Abigail Lucas

WASTE MANAGEMENT DONATES TO BLUE & WHITE

Blue and White Gets $8000 Donation from WM
The Blue and White Scholastic Foundation received an $8,000 donation today from Waste Management. The company made the contribution as part of Pennsylvania’s Educational Improvement Tax Credit program.
The Blue & White Scholastic Foundation is a non-profit organization that gives out annual scholarships through their scholarship program.
“Waste Management has a history of supporting education in the Slate Belt. We believe that investing in our youth, is investing in our future. The Blue and White Scholastic Foundation and Waste Management partnership has allowed dozens of students to attend catholic school, who might not have been able to due to budget restrictions. We are proud to support the Blue and White Scholastic Foundation and the students attending Immaculate Conception School,” commented Waste Management’s Community Relations Manager, Adrienne Fors.
Waste Management of Pennsylvania is dedicated to environmental protection, education and supporting the communities where we operate. Since the EITC program was launched, Waste Management has made grants worth over $15,791,307 that have improved the educational opportunities of thousands of public school students and helped thousands of other children and young adults attend private schools.

slate belt's wettest year ever

BASD Kindergarten registration

BASD Kindergarten Registration

The Bangor Area School District (BASD) is excited to welcome the Class of 2032! The kindergarten team at Five Points Elementary School is excited to welcome our new kindergarten class to begin theireducational journey for the 2019-2020 School Year. A child is eligible for kindergarten if he/she:

is at least the age of five (5) years by September 1, 2019.
resides within the boundaries of the BASD.
successfully completes the district’s kindergarten screening process.

As of January 4, 2019, kindergarten registration packets are available for parents and/or guardians at any Bangor Area School District (BASD) Elementary School (Five Points, Washington, or DeFranco) and the District Administration Office. Packets are also available for download from the BASD web page www.bangorslaters.org. Please contact the District Administration Office to request a registration packet via mail (610-588-2163). In order to schedule a screening appointment, the completed registration packet and mandatory documents must be submitted to District Administration (123 Five Points Richmond Road, Bangor, PA 18013). A completed registration packet includes:

Proof of child’s birth date (must be at least five (5) years by September 1, 2019)
Two (2) proofs of residency
2019-2020 Kindergarten Registration Form
Physical Exam Record (4 pages) - Completed by a Health Care Provider within one year of the

date the registration packet is submitted (which must include the child’s immunization record)

Dental Exam Record – Completed by a Dentist
Home Language Survey
Pre-Kindergarten Questionnaire

Once packets are received and confirmed complete, BASD will contact parents/guardians to schedule a kindergarten screening appointment. Completed packets must be received no later than March 1st to schedule a screening appointment in March. Kindergarten screenings for the 2019-2020 school year will occur between March 12 and March 28 at Washington Elementary School. All screenings are by appointment only. An adult must accompany the child(ren) for their screening appointment(s). Our kindergarten staff is eager to meet and work with your child! Welcome Class of 2032!

slater super fans honored

The Bangor Boys Basketball team gave a special thank you Thursday night to Slater Super Fans Alan and Carol Kunsler for their support of Bangor sports teams. Sbtt Photo Lynne Cistone

DiFebo's Earn Leopold Conservation Award

DiFebo's Earn Leopold Conservation Award
A Pennsylvania Senate citation was awarded to Bangor’s Harvest Home Meats, Pennsylvania’s first winner of the prestigious Leopold Conservation Award. The award is given out in 14 states.
Presented in honor of renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold, the Leopold Conservation Award recognizes farmers, ranchers and foresters who inspire others with their dedication to land, water and wildlife habitat management on private, working land. The award is presented in Pennsylvania by Heinz Endowments, Pennsylvania Farm Bureau and Sand County Foundation.
The owners of Harvest Home Meats, Richard DiFebo and his son, Dohl, were given the award during a ceremony this week at the 2019 Pennsylvania Farm Show in Harrisburg.
The DiFebos, who raise grass-fed beef cattle, converted highly-erodible row crop land to grass pastures, installed contour strips, raised cover crops, used no-till seeding practices, and fenced off streams and ponds on their farm.
Richard and Dohl DiFebo earned this prestigious award by demonstrating that agricultural business operators can be successful while also being responsible environmental stewards. Harvest Home Meats has family ties to our area that go back a century, and we all celebrate their nationally recognized achievement

Jean Pinto Honored

Jean Pinto honored at Heritage Center
by Larry Cory
Jean Pinto formed the New Approach in 1970 to wage a fight against cancer in honor of Tim Caracio who was a neighbor and friend who died at a young age of the dreaded disease. Even though her daughter, Kathy, also succumbed to cancer in 2004, Jean continued the fight until her death in 2018.
In her nearly half-century fight she and the New Approach raised over one million dollars to aid in the fight against cancer.
Terry Toth who joined the popular singing group in 1979 and served as an assistant, said Jean Pinto was a “special lady” during a program held at the Slate Belt Heritage Center Sunday afternoon.
Pinto had the ideal background to pursue her goal. In addition to her engaging personality she was a church choir director and an educator for over 40 years.
People who joined the group were held to a high standard, but she had the respect of all who performed in the group. She held dinners for us because she “wanted us to be family,” Toth said.
She was also a lady of faith and ended every show with the song, “How Great is Our God,” which was sung by nearly two dozen members of the group who participated in the program. They also sang “In Remembrance of You,” Oh Happy Day” and medley of other favorites.
Toth also talked about some of Pinto’s policies that she wanted everyone to follow. There was a way for group members to stand, a way to sit, and she never allowed anyone to wear white socks with black pants.
Pinto also wanted her shows to have a fast start and a strong finish. For that reason, New Approach shows never had intermissions, because, Toth, quoting Pinto, said , “If we stop we would have to start again.”
The Little Approach started in 1980 because Pinto wanted some younger people who would learn to perform and could provide back-up for veteran performers.
She had many honors for her work including commendation from many local members of the Pennsylvania state congress. She also became a member of the Bangor Area School District’s 1885 Club, among other honors.

Safe2Say Something

Safe2Say Something?
Safe2Say Something is a youth violence prevention program run by the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General. The program teaches youth and adults how to recognize warning signs and signals, especially within social media, from individuals who may be a threat to themselves or others and to “say something” BEFORE it is too late. With Safe2Say Something, it’s easy and confidential to report safety concerns to help prevent violence and tragedies.
Go to www.safe2saypa.org Click on download the app.

Public Service Announcements.....

Comedy Night Fundraiser
A Comedy Night fundraiser benefiting Slater Family Network will be held Saturday, February 16, 2019 at 5 PM at the First United Methodist Church in Bangor.
They hope that you'll join them for an evening of family-friendly comedy on Saturday, February 16th at 5:00 pm (doors open at 4:00). This is a fundraiser hosted by First United Methodist Church that benefits the Slater Family Network - 100% of ticket sales will go directly to Slater Family Network. Each ticket holder will be entered into our door prize drawing. Light snacks and beverages will also be available. Seating is limited.  For tickets please call the church office at 610-588-4673. Tickets are $15.

Snow Ball Dinner Dance
Families First  presents  the  9th annual benefit Snow Ball Dinner Dance Margaritaville  Saturday, February 23, 2019 6:00 pm to 11:00 pm at Weona park recreation center.  Music by Romeo Vegas, dinner by Just in Thyme, $25.00 per person in advance $30.00 at the door.  Basket raffles, door prizes , BYOB/dress casual.
For tickets contact Spring Shank – Pen Argyl High School, Heather Reed – Wind Gap Middle School, Kelly Thomas – Plainfield Elementary.  For information contact: Frank Jones – 610-863-9095 ext. 1387 or jones.frank@penargylsd.org.  All proceeds help support Families First free programs

ONLINE CROSSWORD

FREE SUNDAY DINNERS

1st Sunday of Every Month
East Bangor United Methodist Church, Central Ave., East Bangor
4 - 6 pm 610-588-4453
2nd Sunday of Every Month
Crossroad Baptist, S. 2nd St., Bangor
4 - 5:30 pm 610-588-3966
3rd Sunday of Every Month
Ackermanville United Methodist, 1410 Ackeranville Rd.
4 - 5:30 pm 610-588-7818
4th Sunday of Every Month
First United Methodist, 3rd St., Bangor
12:30 pm - ?? 610-588-4673
Last Saturday of Every Month - Hospitality Luncheon
First United Presbyterian Church, 218 W. Penna. Ave., Pen Argyl
11:30 - 1:30 pm 610-863-4447
If you have any questions, please call the respective churches.

SUNDAY CHURCH SCHEDULE

Ackermanville United Methodist Church Sunday School - 9:00 am Worship - 10:00 am

Bangor Church of The Nazarene Sunday School - 9:30am Worship -10:40 am

Belfast Bible Sunday School (all ages) 9:30 am, Worship 10:45 am, Evening Service 7:00 pm.

Belfast Wesley United Methodist Church Children’s & Adult Sunday School 9:15 am Worship 10:00 am

Bethel Bible Church of Mt. Zion Sunday School - 9:00 am Worship - 10:00 am.

Christ Evangelical Lutheran Sunday School - 9:00 am Worship - 10:00 am - Holy Communion (Communion 1st & 3rd Sundays

Community Presbyterian Sunday School - 9:15 am Worship service - 10:30 am (Communion 1st Sunday)

Cross Road Baptist Church Sunday School (all ages) - 9:30 am Worship - 10:45 am Prayer Service - 7:00 pm

East Bangor United Methodist Sunday, September 29 Worship Service with Children's Church - 9:15 am

Faith Alive Community Church Prayer - 9:30 am Worship - 10:00 am

Faith United Presbyterian Church School & Worship - 10:00 am Session - 11:00 am

First United Evangelical Sunday School - 9:30 am Worship - 10:30 am

First United Methodist Church of Bangor Worship - 11:00 am

Flickville UCC Sunday School - 9:30am Worship - 10:45 am

Good Shepherd Evangelical Lutheran Church Worship Service - 9:00 am. Adult Bible Study & Sunday School Following Worship.

Grace Evangelical Lutheran Service of the Word Church Music - 9:00 am Holy Communion

Grace United Methodist Contemporary Worship - 8:30 am

Hope UCC Worship - 9:30 am - June 3 through August (Communion 1st Sunday)

Hopesprings Community of Faith Coffee - 9:45 am Service - 10:00 am

House On The Rock Worship - 10:00 am

Mount Bethel Church Worship Services - 10:00 am

Mount Eaton Church Traditional Worship - 8:00 am Sunday School - 9:30 am Contemporary Worship - 10:30 am

Our Lady of Mount Carmel Sunday Mass - 8:30 AM

Portland Baptist Church Sunday School - 9:00 am Fellowship - 10:00 am Worship - 10:30 am

Presbyterian Parish of Bangor-Roseto Worship 10:30 am

Prince of Peace Lutheran Church Sunday School - 8:30 am Worship/Communion - 9:45 am

Richmond United Methodist Church Worship and Sunday School - 10:00 am

The Roseto Independent Worship 9:30 am

Slate Belt Church Worship - 10:30 am

St. John Evangelical Lutheran Worship - 10:00 am

St. Joeseph's Episcopal Eucharist - 11:00 am Coffee Hour Follows Church

St. Luke’s U.C.C. Belfast Worship 10:00 am (Communion 1st Sunday)

St. Mary's Episcopal Eucharist and Sunday School - 9:00 am Coffee hour follows service.

St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Worship - 8:00am - 10:15 Sunday School -9:00am

St. Vincent dePaul Sunday Mass - 10:30 AM

The Pentecostal Christian Church of the Truth Sunday School (Escuela Dominical) 12 noon Praise & Worship (Cuho Evanglistico) 1:00 pm

Trinity Lutheran Church Sunday School 9:00 am Worship/Holy Communion 10:15 am

Trinity United Church of Christ Adult Sunday School - 9 am Worship - 10:30 am

Zion Presbyterian Church Worship & Church School - 9:30 am

gOING oUT OF TOWN?

Going out of town? Let SBRPD know that your house will be vacant and they'll do frequent drive-bys.. Safe travels... http://slatebeltpd.com/ SBRPD is: 911 (Emergency), 610-759-8517 (Non-Emergency), 610-759-8523 (Fax) and 1-888-823-4978 FREE (Non-Emergency Toll Free)

dRUG TAKE BACK BOX

The Slate Belt Regional Police Department has a prescription drug “Take-Back “box at their 6292 Sullivan Trail, Nazareth, Pa office (Plainfield Township Municipal Building). Contact information for the SBRPD is: 911 (Emergency), 610-759-8517 (Non-Emergency), 610-759-8523 (Fax) and 1-888-823-4978 FREE (Non-Emergency Toll Free)

Send Your News To Us

February 10

Heritage Center Event
Mike Ortoski and John Mauser will present a “Progress Report on Lake Minsi” on February 10th at 2 pm in the Heritage Center.

Come See "Noah"
On Sunday, February 10th at 7:00 pm Grace United Methodist Church at 404 E. Mountain Avenue in Pen Argyl will be showing Sight and Sound’s production of “Noah” in the sanctuary. Mark this on your calendars and let your friends and neighbors know. There is no charge for this evening of fellowship. Refreshments will be served. The snow date will be Sunday, February 17th.

February 11

AARP to Meet
Slate Belt Chapter AARP 4135 will hold its next meeting on February 11th at the Senior Center on American Bangor Road at 1 pm. We will have a guest speaker on the issu of Vision Loss. Every senior is welcome to attend our meetings.

February 14

Mohegan Sun Bus Trip
St. Elizabeth of Hungary parish is sponsoring a trip to the Mohegan Sun casino on Thursday, February 14th. The bus will depart from St. Elizabeth's parking lot in Pen Argyl by 9:00am, it will then proceed to the old St. Joseph's church parking lot in Wind Gap. For more information, please call Mary Lou DeRea-Lohman at 610-863-4846 or 610-844-4630.

February 16

February 21

Cafe on Broadway Fundraiser
A fundraiser for The Blue Mountain Community Library will be held on Thursday, February 21 from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm at the Café on Broadway, 21 S. Broadway in Wind Gap, PA. The Café will generously donate a portion of all sales that day to the library. All food is fresh and made to order. You are encouraged to call ahead
with your order. Specials are listed on the restaurant’s Facebook page. The Café is take-out or eat-in, with limited seating. The phone number is 610-881-4261. Menus are available at the Café or at the library. Your support of this fundraiser to benefit the library will be greatly appreciated.
The library is located at 216 S. Robinson Ave., Pen Argyl, PA. Hours are M-Sa, 10:00 am- Noon, and M-Th, 6:00-8:00 pm. Call 610-863-3029 for information or visit www.bmcl.org. Find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/bmclpenargyl.

Young at Heart Club
The Slate Belt Young at Heart Club will be meeting on Thursday, February 21st, at 1:00pm at St. Elizabeth's Catholic Church in Pen Argyl. Mrs. Jo Bullock will present a program on hypertension and high blood pressure. Please feel free to join us for this very important program. All are welcome1 Just a reminder, this club is open to all senior citizens regardless of race, religion or creed. Join the gang and bring your friends! For more information, please call Mary Lou DeRea-Lohman at 610-863-4846 or 610-844-4630.

February 23

Birding at Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area
Saturday, February 23 at 10:00am to 4:00pm.  Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area is one of the premier birding spots in eastern Pennsylvania. Join us for this birding tour of Middle Creek as we enjoy the sights and sounds of Snow Geese, Tundra Swans, and other waterfowl. Cackling Gees and the rare Ross’s Goose have been located among the Snow Geese flocks during previous trips. Bald Eagles and sometimes Golden Eagles have been seen. Please dress for the weather and bring a lunch and binoculars. This is a great opportunity for photographers. Meet at the Middle Creek Visitor Center at 10:00AM. Leaders will stay until dusk to look for Short-eared Owls and listen for American Woodcocks for those who are interested. Registration is required.
  You can register for community programs online at http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/. If you need an accommodation to participate in a program please contact the park office at 610-746-2801 or jacobsburgsp@pa.gov. With at least three days notice, interpreters for people who are deaf or hard of hearing are available for educational programs.

Snow Ball Dinner Dance
Families First  presents  the  9th annual benefit Snow Ball Dinner Dance Margaritaville  Saturday, February 23, 2019 6:00 pm to 11:00 pm at Weona park recreation center.  Music by Romeo Vegas, dinner by Just in Thyme, $25.00 per person in advance $30.00 at the door.  Basket raffles, door prizes , BYOB/dress casual.
For tickets contact Spring Shank – Pen Argyl High School, Heather Reed – Wind Gap Middle School, Kelly Thomas – Plainfield Elementary.  For information contact: Frank Jones – 610-863-9095 ext. 1387 or jones.frank@penargylsd.org.  All proceeds help support Families First free programs

March 2

Lorax Story
The Lorax is the "Speaker of the Trees" and with Earth Day around the corner, it's time to think about our Earth. On March 2nd at Grand Central Environmental Education Center beginning at 10 am, children will hear the Lorax story to celebrate Read Across America Day, participate in crafts and learn to identify trees. A Lorax Character might even be present! (more to come on that!) Registration is required since space is limited. Please contact Adrienne Fors, afors1@wm.com 610-863-2387 for more information or to Register for the event at Waste Management's Grand Central Environmental Education Center 891 Grand Central Road, Pen Argyl, Pennsylvania 18072

Orienteering for Scouts
Jacobsburg Environmental Education Center will hold Orienteering for Scouts on Saturday, March 2 at 9:00am to 11:00am. Orienteering is a fun, family-friendly sport that involves navigating a course using a map and compass. It can be competitive, in timed events, or just a way for your pack or troop to get out and enjoy the woods while practicing useful map-reading skills. During this hands-on experience, you’ll learn how to read a topographic map, how to use a compass, and how to put all that knowledge together. All the equipment you will need is provided. Please bring water and wear comfortable shoes, there will be some hiking. Registration is required.

Herpetology for Scouts
Herpetology for Scouts at Jacobsburg Environmental Education Center Saturday, March 2 at 1:00pm to 3:00pm. Learn about the scientific study of amphibians and reptiles! We'll become amateur herpetologists as we search for frogs, snakes, turtles, and salamanders. We'll study what these types of animals need in order to survive and how the characteristics of each group are similar and unique. Be prepared to be outdoors in wet and muddy conditions. Rubber boots are recommended. Registration is required.

March 10

Pennsylvania's Slate Lands
March 10th @ 2:00 PM: “Digital Documentation of Pennsylvania’s Slate Lands” by Professors, Frank Matera, John Hinchman and Joseph Elliot Of The Philadelphia School of Design.

March 13

Hike for Health
On Wednesday, March 13 at 5:30pm to 7:00pm you can Hike for Health at Jacobsburg Environmental Center. Join us after work for a hike with a St. Luke’s University health professional! Get some exercise while learning about health and fitness outdoors. Each hike will include a presentation from a guest health professional on topics such as physical fitness, stretching, and nutrition. A different guest will hike with us each month, sharing a topic that they specialize in. We will hike at a brisk pace over uneven terrain for 2 to 2.5 miles guided by a center educator. Our guest will be available during the hike to discuss the topic of the day and answer your questions. This program is being provided in partnership with St. Luke’s University Health Network and the Get Your Tail on the Trail initiative. Meet at the Visitor Center at 400 Belfast Road, Nazareth, PA. Registration is not required.

March 14

Bus Trip to Hollywood Casino
St. Elizabeth of Hungry parish will sponsor a trip to the Hollywood Casino on Thursday, March 14th. For more information, please call Mary Lou DeRea-Lohman at 610-863-4846 or 610-844-4630.

March 16

Parade Of Shamrocks
Downtown Bethlehem will be awash in green as Celtic Cultural Alliance hosts the 8th Annual Celtic Classic Parade of Shamrocks! The celebration will take place on Saturday, March 16, 2019. The parade steps off at 1:00 p.m., so get here early for the best viewing spots! The parade will kick-off at 10th Avenue & Broad Street. The parade route will continue east on Broad to Main Street and makes its way south on Main Street, ending under the Hill-To-Hill Bridge.

Craft/Vendor Show
A Craft/Vendor Show, will be held on Sat. March 16 from 9am to 3pm at Portland Hook & Ladder Bingo Hall, 111 State St, Portland PA. FREE admission & parking. Craft and vendors wanted. Info www.portlandhookandladder.com. Contact Stephanie for craft and vendor info 610-216-6716 or ladies@portlandhookandladder.com. Kitchen open.

Sportsman's Banquet
The Mount Bethel Volunteer Fire Company will be holding its annual Sportsman's Banquet on Saturay, March 16th. Doors will open at 4 pm and dinner will be served at 6 pm. Dinner will be catered by Hillside Smokehouse and firearms by Communale's.
Please note: There are two separate tickets this year. $50.00 General Admission ticket which includes dinner and a chance to win one of 30 prizes and a $20 raffle ticket good for the a chance to win one of the 30 prizes offered. There is no admittance with the $20 ticket.
Tickets may be purchased from any member of the fire department, at the Mount Bethel fire station, Teel Realty or Teel Auctions. There will be reserved seating for groups of 8 or more. For a mail in application, go to http://mountbethelfire.com/sportsman-banquet-raffle/.

March 22

Knobby Whistlers Trio
Knobby Whistlers Trio will play at the Broadway Pub hosted by Gina White on Friday, March 22, 2019 at 8 PM – 11 PM Come and listen to live music while enjoying a delicious dinner and cold drinks

March 23

Frog Slog!
Saturday, March 23rd at 7:00pm to 9:00 pm is Frog Slog at Jacobsburg. Have you ever slogged for frogs in a vernal pool? Vernal pools are temporary bodies of water that are used by frogs and salamanders to breed and lay eggs. Join us for this nighttime journey to explore these woodland ponds in search of these amphibian wonders. Please dress for the weather, wear waterproof footwear, and bring a flashlight. Registration is required. Program limited to 30 participants.

March 29

Family Night at Jacobsburg
There will be an Evening Amphibian Search at Jacobsburg Environmental Education Center on Friday, March 29 at 6:30pm to 8:00pm. Spring is here and our amphibian neighbors are springing out of the ground! Join us as we learn what amphibians are and what they’ve been doing all winter. We’ll go on a two mile walk to look for frogs and salamanders just before sunset. Bring a flashlight and wear sturdy shoes that can get wet and muddy. Registration is required.

April 6

Brick Bingo
Brick Bingo, Sat. April 6, Advance tickets $20, Doors open at 11am, Bingo 1pm. All prizes lego themed, kids welcome to play accompanied by adult. Group/family discount available. For info http://www.portlandhookandladder.com/. To purchase advance tickets call or text Stephanie at 610-216-6716 or email brickbingo@portlandhookandladder.com. Portland Hook & Ladder Bingo Hall, 111 State St, Portland PA

April 7

Designer Purse & Cash Bingo
The Pen Argyl Area High School Alumni Association is hosting a Designer Purse and Cash Bingo on Sunday, April 7 at Wind Gap Fire Company Social Hall, 111 N. Broadway, Wind Gap PA. Cost of Bingo is $20 in advance. $25 at the door. Doors open at 11:30am, Bingo starts at 1:00pm. 20 regular games, special bingo’s and a 50/50 drawing. Light lunch available. All proceeds go to the Alumni Scholarship Fund. For tickets call 610-863-4600

April 10

On Thursday, April 11 at 7:00 PM the Heritage Center in Bangor will hold its Spring Opening. The program that night will be “Of the People”: Folk Art And Craft of the Slate Belt.

May 9

Structural Slate Company Program
A program titled "Structural Slate Company will be presented by Kenton Lerch at the Heritage Center in Bangor on May 9th at 7:00 pm.

May 11

Golf Classic Tournament
The Pen Argyl Masonic Lodge #594 will be holding our 3rd Annual Ralph A Behler Memorial Golf Classic Tournament at the Southmore Golf Course in Bath PA on May 11th 2019. Monies raised through this event will benefit various Masonic Charities, the Almoner's Fund and the Pen Argyl Masonic Building Fund.

May 31 - June 1

Horsepower Showdown
Horsepower Showdown will be held May 31, 2019 - Jun 1, 2019 at the Plainfield Farmers Assn 1281 Bangor Rd, Nazareth, Pennsylvania 18064. Coming to Plainfield is the NEW event called Horsepower Showdown. Planning to have: 2 Days of Action!! Friday: Vendors, Kids Activities, Truck Pulls, Car & Truck Show. Saturday: Dirt Drags, Sled Pulls, Truck & Car Show, Light Parade, Dyno Competition, Vendors, Kids Pedal Pull, Kids Powerwheels races and MORE!! Sled will be Clark's Dirt Commander.

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Slate Belt Senior Center

Slate Belt Senior Center
Blue Valley Farm Show Complex
700 American Bangor Road
Bangor, ph 610-588-1224

Hours: 8:00 A.M.-4:00 P.M.
For Meal Reservations please call by 10:00 one day before the meal. Cancellations ASAP.

Pool Tables available every morning & Tuesday Thursday & Friday afternoons
Computers, Library, cards, puzzles available on a daily basis.
Poker, Tuesdays, 9:30 AM
Tai Chi, Tuesdays, 12:15 PM
Morning with the arts, Wednesdays, 8:00-11:00 AM
Exercise, Wednesdays, 10:00 AM
Zumba, Thursdays, 10:00 AM

Bangor Library New Books
January 24

Adult Fiction
The Suspect by Fiona Barton
The Golden Tresses of the Dead by Alan C. Bradley
Die Trying by Lee Child
Running Blind by Lee Child
Secrets at Cedar Cabin by Colleen Coble
Silent Scream by Karen Harper
Once Upon a Wine by Beth Kendrick
Cross Breed by Lora Leigh
The Rule of Law by John T. Lescroart
The Wartime Sisters by Lynda Cohen Loigman
Liar Liar by James Patterson
Her One Mistake by Heidi Perks
The Burglar by Thomas Perry
Crucible by James Rollins
The Woman Inside by E. G. Scott
Where’d You Go, Bernadette by Maria Semple
99 Percent Mine by Sally Thorne
The Dreamers by Karen Thompson Walker
Adult Non Fiction
Presidents of War by Michael R. Beschloss
The Truths We Hold by Kamala D. Harris
The First Conspiracy by Brad Meltzer
All-American Murder by James Patterson
Women Rowing North by Mary Bray Pipher
The Upside by Abdel Sellou
We’re Going to Need More Wine by Garabrielle Union
Thyroid Healing by Anthony William
Large Print Adult Fiction
The Best of Us by Robyn Carr
The Boy by Tami Hoag
The House Next Door by James Patterson
Turning Point by Danielle Steel
A Delicate Touch by Stuart Woods
Young Adult Fiction
King of Scars by Leigh Bardugo
Dread Nation by Justina Ireland
Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them by J. K. Rwling
Young Adult Non Fiction
We Are Displaced by Malala Yousafzai
Junior Fiction
Star Darlings Collection by Shana Muldoon Zappa
Frozen Fever by Victoria Saxon
Took by Mary Downing Hahn
Inkling by Kenneth Oppel
Moon Rising by Tui Sutherland
Stick Dog Chases a Pizza by Tom Watson
Junior Non Fiction
50 Science Things to Make and Do by Georgina Andrews
She Persisted by Chelsea Clinton
She Persisted Around the World by Chelsea Clinton
Hacks for Minecrafters by Megan Miller
Easy Fiction
The Christmas Cobwebs by Odds Bodkin
Here Come Christmas by Caroline Church
The Worry Stone by Marianna Dengler
Butterfly, butterfly by Petr Horacek
Help! By Holly Keller
Millie Moo by Camilla Moody
Pete the Cat by Kimberly Dean
The Snow Tree by Caroline Repchuk
Easy Non Fiction
Jane Austen by Ma Isabel Sanchez Vegara
Anne Frank by Ma Isabel Sanchez Vegara
Audio Books
The Boy by Tami Hoag
Back Story by Robert B. Parker
School Days by Robert B. Parker
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban by J. K. Rowling
The Hating Game by Sally Thorne
DVD’s
Cinderella Man
Old Dogs
Party with the Penguins
PAW Patrol, The Great Pirate Rescue
Roman Holiday
The Woman in Black
X-Men, The Last Stand
X-Men
X2 X-Men United

Blue Mt. Library New Books

Adult Fiction:
River Bodies, Karen Katchur
The Lighthouse Keeper's Daughter,
Hazel Gaynor The Glass Ocean,
Beatriz Williams Lethal White,
Robert Galbraith Not Our Kind,
Kitty Zeldis Unsheltered,
Barbara Kingslover The Christmas Sisters,
Sarah Morgan The White Christmas Inn,
Colleen Wright First Flurries,
Joanne DeMaio Snowfall On Lighthouse Lane,
JoAnn Ross Past Tense,
Lee Child Look Alive Twenty-Five, Janet Evanovich

Adult Large Print:
Alaskan Holiday, Debbie Macomber
Long Road To Mercy, David Baldacci
A Spark Of Light, Jodi Picoult
Beauchamp Hall, Danielle Steel
Target Alex Cross, James Patterson
Christmas Cake Murder, Joanne Fluke
Silent Scream, Karen Harper

Adult Non-fiction:
In The Hurricane's Eye,
Nathaniel Philbrick In Pieces,
Sally Field Truth Doesn't Have A Side,
Dr. Bennet Omalu Becoming Michelle Obama
Derailed On The Bipolar Express Joie Edson

Audio Books
Red War, Kyle Mills
Clock Dance, Anne Tyler
Transcription, Kate Atkinson
The Chalk Man, C.J. Tudor

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