CLICK HERE FOR PRINT ARCHIVES AT PRINTSBTT.COMSLATE BELT WEATHER DECEMBER 15TODAY - A slight chance of snow showers. Partly sunny, with a high near 22. Breezy, with a west wind 16 to 21 mph, with gusts as high as 32 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20%. TONIGHT - Mostly cloudy, with a low around 10. Wind chill values as low as -3. West wind 10 to 18 mph, with gusts as high as 28 mph. ![]() Pen Argyl's Megan Lilly (30) passes to Rachel Sutton during the Knights' loss to Bangor in a game played Wednesday night at Bangor. Slater defenders (L-R) Emily LaBar, Verenice Mendez, Jaclyn Hess (32) Amanda Konicki (10) Nicole Robinson (14) (PHOTO GALLERY) (Another photo tomorrow) Sbtt Photo Larry Cory
Bangor's Dylan Benton delivers a slam dunk during the Slaters' 60-36 win over Pen Argyl in a game played last night at Bangor. (PHOTO GALLERY) (Another photo tomorrow) Sbtt Photo Larry Cory
Growing Up in the Butcher Shop
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Bingo - Mt. Bethel Fire Co., 6:45
Blue Mountain Library - Open 10-12 & 6-8pm Bangor Public Library - Open 10-8 Slate Belt Senior Center - Open 8-4. Blue Valley Farm Show Story Time - Preschool children. Blue Mt. Community Library, Pen Argyl, 10:30am Pen Argyl Borough Planning Commission - 7:00 P.M. Council Chambers Forks Kiwanis - Merchants Bank, Breakfast 7:30am Slate Belt Rotary - Scorecard, Wind Gap, 6-7pm Slate Belt YMCA - Open 5:00am - 9:00pm |
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This is our calendar of regularly scheduled events. If you see any info that is incorrect or want to add a regularly scheduled event please send e-mail to sbtopics@rcn.com.
Special Future Events - See Below
CLICK HERE FOR 45-60 DAY CALENDAR
Bangor High School Bands Winter Concert
The BAHS Bands Winter Concert will be held on Friday, December 16 at 7:30 PM in the M. Craig Paine Performing Arts Theater at Bangor Area High School. The Concert and Symphonic Bands will each present their own portion of the concert with compositions by Steve Reisteter, James Barnes, Chris Bernotas, James Curnow, Pavel Tschesnokoff, and John Moss.
At the conclusion of the program, both groups will unite on stage for a grand finale complete with a Christmas Carol sing-along and our annual performance of Sleigh Ride conducted by a jolly special guest. Tickets will be available at the door for $3 adults/$2 students and seniors. Gold Cards and Slater Band Boosters Membership Cards will be honored. Please join us on December 16 to share in the holiday joy!
At the conclusion of the program, both groups will unite on stage for a grand finale complete with a Christmas Carol sing-along and our annual performance of Sleigh Ride conducted by a jolly special guest. Tickets will be available at the door for $3 adults/$2 students and seniors. Gold Cards and Slater Band Boosters Membership Cards will be honored. Please join us on December 16 to share in the holiday joy!
Christmas Caroling
Christmas Caroling At The Slate Belt Medical Center will be held Friday, December 16th at 6:45pm. Meet at the reception area (door to the left of the building)
Everyone (Large and Small) is invited to walk the Halls and Sing carols to help our Neighbors Spirits rise this Christmas! Let’s give back and enjoy the true spirit of Christmas!
Everyone (Large and Small) is invited to walk the Halls and Sing carols to help our Neighbors Spirits rise this Christmas! Let’s give back and enjoy the true spirit of Christmas!

Santa sat on his sleigh at Dotta Chrysler Jeep for the Toys For Tots event held Sunday. PHOTO GALLERY (New photo tomorrow) Sbtt Photo Larry Cory
Can You Believe It?
$30,000 Swarovski Crystal
"Ugly Sweater" For Sale

WASHINGTON, (UPI) -- An online holiday-themed apparel retailer is offering a crystal-studded "ugly Christmas sweater" for the season. Online sweater shop Tipsy Elves has deemed the sweater lined with 24,274 Swarovski crystals "the world's most expensive ugly Christmas sweater" with a pricetag of $30,000.
According to the product description, the "once in a lifetime collector's item" took 52 hours to create.
The individually placed crystals form the image of Santa Claus riding a unicorn through space as a ringed planet and sparkling stars float in the background.
The extravagant sweater also ships with a luxury frame so it may be displayed as a work of art when not being worn.
According to the product description, the "once in a lifetime collector's item" took 52 hours to create.
The individually placed crystals form the image of Santa Claus riding a unicorn through space as a ringed planet and sparkling stars float in the background.
The extravagant sweater also ships with a luxury frame so it may be displayed as a work of art when not being worn.
December 15, 1791 - The Bill of Rights (first 10 amendments to the U.S. Constitution) became effective following ratification by Virginia.
December 15, 1840 - Napoleon was buried in Les Invalides in Paris. He had died in exile on the island of Saint Helena after his fall from power. December 15, 1890 - Sioux leader Sitting Bull (native name Tatanka-yatanka) was killed in a skirmish with U.S. soldiers along the Grand River in South Dakota as his warriors tried to prevent his arrest. December 15, 1939 - Gone with the Wind had its world premiere in Atlanta. |
Personal Finance...
Things Life Insurance Companies Don't Always Tell You

(BPT) - A life insurance policy can be the difference between financial security and disaster for families whose primary bread-winner passes away unexpectedly. A significant loss of income can leave uninsured families struggling to pay bills, including final expenses. This is particularly serious when you consider that nearly half of all Americans don't have enough emergency savings to cover three months worth of expenses, and more than a quarter have no emergency funds at all, according to a Bankrate survey.
Still, life insurance isn't the answer to all of life's financial challenges, especially if you buy a policy without fully understanding how it works, or what life insurance can and can't do for you. Here are five things your life insurance company won't always tell you about life insurance:
1. Not everyone needs life insurance.
While most people can probably benefit from having life insurance, it's not for everyone.
For example, most financial experts agree the majority of people don't need to buy life insurance for their kids. The purpose of life insurance is basically to: replace lost income (most kids have no income); pay final expenses (they're likely to be manageable); or accrue cash value. You may think a whole life policy could give your child money toward his or her education once the policy matures. However, there are other ways to save for a college education that offer tax benefits a whole life policy doesn't.
Likewise, if you're a young worker with no dependents and no debt, you might not need life insurance right now. You could put what you'd spend on premiums into your retirement savings. Or, if you're older with no dependents and already have a legacy set aside for your descendants, you might choose other types of investments.
However, anyone who has debt and dependents could probably benefit from having life insurance protection.
2. Online tools can help you figure out how much life insurance you really need.
Years ago, people relied on their insurance agent or company to advise them on how much life insurance to buy. The internet has made it easy to know exactly how much death benefit you really need.
Online tools and "robot advisors" have become very useful resources for helping consumers figure out how much life insurance is appropriate for their unique circumstances. A quick web search for "life insurance calculator" will yield numerous results, including calculators not provided by insurance companies or anyone in the insurance industry. For example, personal finance websites Yahoo Finance and Nerd Wallet both offer life insurance calculators.
3. No single "best" type of policy fits everyone.
Life insurance comes in three basic types: term (the cheapest kind, it has an end date), whole (costs more, has no end date, accrues cash value and premiums are fixed) and universal (also permanent and accrues, but with premiums that can vary). Insurance agents are happy to sell you any kind of policy, but of course their commission rewards are greatest when they can sell you more expensive policies.
Each type of life insurance has advantages and drawbacks for different people, depending on a lot of factors like your age, health, why you need life insurance, and how long you need it. To ensure you're getting the best value, understand the policy and how it works for you before you buy.
4. Your term life policy doesn't (always) have to end.
Term life is cheapest because it has a definitive end date. Term life aims to provide insurance for when you most need it, such as until your kids finish college. However, most term policies sold today are convertible - at the end of the initial term you can either continue with a new term (at a higher rate), or convert the term policy to whole life (also at a higher rate).
5. You may be able to sell your term policy for cash.
If you're a senior and you own a convertible term policy that will soon expire, you may think your choices are limited simply because there was no "cash value" built up in the policy over the years. Your life insurance company is unlikely to tell you otherwise and, in fact, many insurers prevent their agents from informing you of any alternatives to either letting the policy expire or converting it to a more expensive new policy. But the truth is that you may be able to unlock the value in your policy by selling it to outside investors for a lump-sum cash payment.
According to the Life Insurance Settlement Association, in the right situation, a policyholder can turn a term life policy into cash in their hands, provided that it is able to be converted to a new policy and has a death benefit of at least $100,000. By selling your life insurance policy, you can avoid higher premium costs and generate some cash to help fund your retirement. Call (888) 521-8223 or visit www.lisa.org to learn more.
Still, life insurance isn't the answer to all of life's financial challenges, especially if you buy a policy without fully understanding how it works, or what life insurance can and can't do for you. Here are five things your life insurance company won't always tell you about life insurance:
1. Not everyone needs life insurance.
While most people can probably benefit from having life insurance, it's not for everyone.
For example, most financial experts agree the majority of people don't need to buy life insurance for their kids. The purpose of life insurance is basically to: replace lost income (most kids have no income); pay final expenses (they're likely to be manageable); or accrue cash value. You may think a whole life policy could give your child money toward his or her education once the policy matures. However, there are other ways to save for a college education that offer tax benefits a whole life policy doesn't.
Likewise, if you're a young worker with no dependents and no debt, you might not need life insurance right now. You could put what you'd spend on premiums into your retirement savings. Or, if you're older with no dependents and already have a legacy set aside for your descendants, you might choose other types of investments.
However, anyone who has debt and dependents could probably benefit from having life insurance protection.
2. Online tools can help you figure out how much life insurance you really need.
Years ago, people relied on their insurance agent or company to advise them on how much life insurance to buy. The internet has made it easy to know exactly how much death benefit you really need.
Online tools and "robot advisors" have become very useful resources for helping consumers figure out how much life insurance is appropriate for their unique circumstances. A quick web search for "life insurance calculator" will yield numerous results, including calculators not provided by insurance companies or anyone in the insurance industry. For example, personal finance websites Yahoo Finance and Nerd Wallet both offer life insurance calculators.
3. No single "best" type of policy fits everyone.
Life insurance comes in three basic types: term (the cheapest kind, it has an end date), whole (costs more, has no end date, accrues cash value and premiums are fixed) and universal (also permanent and accrues, but with premiums that can vary). Insurance agents are happy to sell you any kind of policy, but of course their commission rewards are greatest when they can sell you more expensive policies.
Each type of life insurance has advantages and drawbacks for different people, depending on a lot of factors like your age, health, why you need life insurance, and how long you need it. To ensure you're getting the best value, understand the policy and how it works for you before you buy.
4. Your term life policy doesn't (always) have to end.
Term life is cheapest because it has a definitive end date. Term life aims to provide insurance for when you most need it, such as until your kids finish college. However, most term policies sold today are convertible - at the end of the initial term you can either continue with a new term (at a higher rate), or convert the term policy to whole life (also at a higher rate).
5. You may be able to sell your term policy for cash.
If you're a senior and you own a convertible term policy that will soon expire, you may think your choices are limited simply because there was no "cash value" built up in the policy over the years. Your life insurance company is unlikely to tell you otherwise and, in fact, many insurers prevent their agents from informing you of any alternatives to either letting the policy expire or converting it to a more expensive new policy. But the truth is that you may be able to unlock the value in your policy by selling it to outside investors for a lump-sum cash payment.
According to the Life Insurance Settlement Association, in the right situation, a policyholder can turn a term life policy into cash in their hands, provided that it is able to be converted to a new policy and has a death benefit of at least $100,000. By selling your life insurance policy, you can avoid higher premium costs and generate some cash to help fund your retirement. Call (888) 521-8223 or visit www.lisa.org to learn more.
Education...
Screen Time Can Be Good for Young Kids

(BPT) - For years, parents and pediatricians fretted over how much screen time was too much, especially for very young children. Many child health experts advised minimal screen time for elementary-aged kids and none at all for children younger than 2. New research, a revised policy from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), and the personal experience of millennial parents who grew up in the digital age, have changed the way parents view screen time for youngsters.
"Research now shows us that not all screen time is equal," says Barbara Peacock, managing director of School Zone Inc., a recognized leader in creating innovative multimedia learning tools to prepare children for a lifelong love of education who recently launched AnywhereTeacher.com, a "Digital Educational Playground" for kids 2-8. "Everyone agrees it's important for children to maintain healthful levels of physical activity, but studies also show educational screen time can be an effective way to supplement children's learning. As the American Academy of Pediatrics recently noted, 'the effects of media use are multi-factorial and depend on the type of media, the type of use, the amount and extent of use, and the characteristics of the individual child."
New understanding
The AAP and other child health experts have long counseled parents against allowing very young children to have much screen time. However, the AAP recently revised its stance, citing "evidence regarding health media use (that) does not support a one-size-fits-all approach" to media use by children.
Rather than keeping young children off devices entirely, the AAP now advises parents to develop a Family Media Use Plan that takes into account children's developmental stages, and uses that information to create an appropriate and individual balance for media usage by each child. The AAP encourages parents to establish boundaries for how and when children may use digital devices, ensure they understand the importance of not sharing personal information online, and openly talk with children about media use.
In revising its recommendation, the AAP looked to a growing body of research that shows digital media use can help facilitate learning. Writing in the Hechinger Report, a highly regarded watchdog media outlet that covers inequality and innovation in education, Lisa Guernsey, director of New America's early education initiative, and Michael H. Levine, founding director of the Joan Ganz Cooney Center, a nonprofit literacy and digital media research organization, explained the shift in thinking.
"Literacy rates and toddlers' media use may seem unrelated, but they are inextricably tied," the co-authors noted. "The important connections between media and reading must be brought to light in schools, households, and in the public's imagination ... children at very young ages can gain important skills in literacy and language development if the content on the screen is designed for learning and if they have a parent or educator who talks with them about what they are doing and seeing."
Making media work for learning
Parental involvement in media use is the key difference between programming that benefits children's educational development, and valueless screen time, research shows.
The National Head Start Association recently stressed that "family engagement is integral" to successful learning. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the U.S. Department of Education agreed in a joint policy statement issued in May 2015: "Families are children's first and most important teachers, advocates and nurturers," the statement said, calling family involvement in kids' education "critical" to their long-term success.
Busy tech-savvy parents recognize how easy technology can make it to access high-quality supplemental learning tools for their children, but finding a trusted source of curated content is not always easy. Speaking to her company's newly launched site, Peacock comments, "AnywhereTeacher.com features content that has been developed exclusively by School Zone based on decades of research and broad-based experience working with educators, dating back almost 40 years when our founders, James Hoffman, Ed.D and his wife Joan, MA, recognized the need for at-home learning materials." The subscription-based AnywhereTeacher.com is an easy to navigate site for youngsters that combines the power of video with traditional learning tools such as flash cards, games, interactive worksheets and printable activities. Original episodic programming like Charlie & Company engages children with educational messages in a fun, familiar way.
The service, which starts at just $6.99 per month, allows parents to manage their children's activities and view their progress, creating an opportunity to talk about learning goals and improvement. The service is compatible with most devices and you can buy a subscription through iTunes, Google Play or PayPal to gain access from any device. There's no limit on the number of devices families can simultaneously use to access the site. Visit AnywhereTeacher.com to learn more.
"Research now shows us that not all screen time is equal," says Barbara Peacock, managing director of School Zone Inc., a recognized leader in creating innovative multimedia learning tools to prepare children for a lifelong love of education who recently launched AnywhereTeacher.com, a "Digital Educational Playground" for kids 2-8. "Everyone agrees it's important for children to maintain healthful levels of physical activity, but studies also show educational screen time can be an effective way to supplement children's learning. As the American Academy of Pediatrics recently noted, 'the effects of media use are multi-factorial and depend on the type of media, the type of use, the amount and extent of use, and the characteristics of the individual child."
New understanding
The AAP and other child health experts have long counseled parents against allowing very young children to have much screen time. However, the AAP recently revised its stance, citing "evidence regarding health media use (that) does not support a one-size-fits-all approach" to media use by children.
Rather than keeping young children off devices entirely, the AAP now advises parents to develop a Family Media Use Plan that takes into account children's developmental stages, and uses that information to create an appropriate and individual balance for media usage by each child. The AAP encourages parents to establish boundaries for how and when children may use digital devices, ensure they understand the importance of not sharing personal information online, and openly talk with children about media use.
In revising its recommendation, the AAP looked to a growing body of research that shows digital media use can help facilitate learning. Writing in the Hechinger Report, a highly regarded watchdog media outlet that covers inequality and innovation in education, Lisa Guernsey, director of New America's early education initiative, and Michael H. Levine, founding director of the Joan Ganz Cooney Center, a nonprofit literacy and digital media research organization, explained the shift in thinking.
"Literacy rates and toddlers' media use may seem unrelated, but they are inextricably tied," the co-authors noted. "The important connections between media and reading must be brought to light in schools, households, and in the public's imagination ... children at very young ages can gain important skills in literacy and language development if the content on the screen is designed for learning and if they have a parent or educator who talks with them about what they are doing and seeing."
Making media work for learning
Parental involvement in media use is the key difference between programming that benefits children's educational development, and valueless screen time, research shows.
The National Head Start Association recently stressed that "family engagement is integral" to successful learning. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the U.S. Department of Education agreed in a joint policy statement issued in May 2015: "Families are children's first and most important teachers, advocates and nurturers," the statement said, calling family involvement in kids' education "critical" to their long-term success.
Busy tech-savvy parents recognize how easy technology can make it to access high-quality supplemental learning tools for their children, but finding a trusted source of curated content is not always easy. Speaking to her company's newly launched site, Peacock comments, "AnywhereTeacher.com features content that has been developed exclusively by School Zone based on decades of research and broad-based experience working with educators, dating back almost 40 years when our founders, James Hoffman, Ed.D and his wife Joan, MA, recognized the need for at-home learning materials." The subscription-based AnywhereTeacher.com is an easy to navigate site for youngsters that combines the power of video with traditional learning tools such as flash cards, games, interactive worksheets and printable activities. Original episodic programming like Charlie & Company engages children with educational messages in a fun, familiar way.
The service, which starts at just $6.99 per month, allows parents to manage their children's activities and view their progress, creating an opportunity to talk about learning goals and improvement. The service is compatible with most devices and you can buy a subscription through iTunes, Google Play or PayPal to gain access from any device. There's no limit on the number of devices families can simultaneously use to access the site. Visit AnywhereTeacher.com to learn more.
Faith Quilters
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Prescription Drug
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December 16
Christmas Caroling
Christmas Caroling At The Slate Belt Medical Center will be held Friday, December 16th at 6:45pm. Meet at the reception area (door to the left of the building)
Everyone (Large and Small) is invited to walk the Halls and Sing carols to help our Neighbors Spirits rise this Christmas! Let’s give back and enjoy the true spirit of Christmas!
Everyone (Large and Small) is invited to walk the Halls and Sing carols to help our Neighbors Spirits rise this Christmas! Let’s give back and enjoy the true spirit of Christmas!
Bangor High School Bands Winter Concert
The BAHS Bands Winter Concert will be held on Friday, December 16 at 7:30 PM in the M. Craig Paine Performing Arts Theater at Bangor Area High School. The Concert and Symphonic Bands will each present their own portion of the concert with compositions by Steve Reisteter, James Barnes, Chris Bernotas, James Curnow, Pavel Tschesnokoff, and John Moss.
At the conclusion of the program, both groups will unite on stage for a grand finale complete with a Christmas Carol sing-along and our annual performance of Sleigh Ride conducted by a jolly special guest. Tickets will be available at the door for $3 adults/$2 students and seniors. Gold Cards and Slater Band Boosters Membership Cards will be honored. Please join us on December 16 to share in the holiday joy!
At the conclusion of the program, both groups will unite on stage for a grand finale complete with a Christmas Carol sing-along and our annual performance of Sleigh Ride conducted by a jolly special guest. Tickets will be available at the door for $3 adults/$2 students and seniors. Gold Cards and Slater Band Boosters Membership Cards will be honored. Please join us on December 16 to share in the holiday joy!
December 17
Breakfast With Santa at Columbia Fire Co.
Columbia Fire Co. No. 1 is Roseto will be sponsoring a Breakfast with Santa on Saturday December 17th from 9-11am at the Roseto Municipal Building. The event is open to all children from Roseto borough as well as children and grandchildren of current Fire Co. members. Cost is FREE for those under 10. Adults and children 10 and over, the cost is $8. Please call 610-588-0597 or email kidsparty@columbiafireco.org for reservations.
Bangor Elks Hoop Shoot
The annual Bangor Elks Lodge 1106 sponsored “Hoop Shoot” free throw contest will be held at Washington Elementary Gym on Saturday, December 17, 2016at 1:00 P. M. Youngsters from Bangor, Pen Argyl, Faith Christian, Easton, Nazareth, Wilson, and Notre Dame are welcome to compete. You can register at the school on the day of the contest at 12:30 P. M. when the doors open.
First place winners and runner-ups will receive plaques with the first place winner advancing to district competition on January 28, 2017 hosted by the Bangor Elks Lodge.This is the forty-fifth year for this youth national event.
Should you have any questions, call Pete Nell at 610-295-2334 or Glenn Miller at 610-703-0070.
First place winners and runner-ups will receive plaques with the first place winner advancing to district competition on January 28, 2017 hosted by the Bangor Elks Lodge.This is the forty-fifth year for this youth national event.
Should you have any questions, call Pete Nell at 610-295-2334 or Glenn Miller at 610-703-0070.
PAHS Toys For Tots
Pen Argyl High School will be accepting "Toys for Tots" Donations at the Boys Basketball Games against Notre Dame Green Pond this Saturday, December 17th from 10-2pm. Toys must be unwrapped and can be dropped off in a collection box in A-gym lobby throughout the game.
December 18
Christmas Carols in the Chapel
Come Sunday, December 18th at 2:00pm for Carols in the Chapel at Columcille. This is an annual gathering and they invite you to join them to welcome the Holiday Season.
Tea & SconesAfternoon Tea: Just following Carols in the Chapel, they will gather in holiday fellowship to share Afternoon Tea and Treats. Join them at The Voyagers Lounge for tea and community .
Tea & SconesAfternoon Tea: Just following Carols in the Chapel, they will gather in holiday fellowship to share Afternoon Tea and Treats. Join them at The Voyagers Lounge for tea and community .
Christmas Cantata and Lovefeast
The East Bangor United Methodist Community Church will present a Christmas Cantata and Lovefeast at the 9:15 a.m. worship service on Sunday, December 18th. The Sunday School will offer a presentation. The Lovefeast will continue with an After-church Fellowship to celebrate Jesus' birthday. The church is located at 136 W. Central Ave. (Rt. 512), East Bangor, PA. For more info., call 610-588-4453 or visit ebumc.org.
Pet Photos With Santa
Tis the season to be FURRY!!! Or feathered, or scaly!! The holidays are fast approaching, and what better way to get in the holiday spirit than pet photos with Santa?
Join them on:December 18th, 2016 from 11am - 2pm at Blakeslee Animal Clinic, 5251 Route 115, Blakeslee, 18610
For only $10, you will receive a 4X6 color print taken by AMA Productions LLC (www.amaproductionsllc.com), and have the digital image emailed, and create a holiday memory to treasure. And even better? You will be helping Boomer's Angels Animal Rescue and Care.
Boomer’s Angels Animal Rescue & Care was formed to give as many homeless and downtrodden animals the brightest future possible. Be an Angel for a homeless pet!
Email boomersangels@gmail.com or visit our website at www.boomersangels.com, find us on Facebook.
Join them on:December 18th, 2016 from 11am - 2pm at Blakeslee Animal Clinic, 5251 Route 115, Blakeslee, 18610
For only $10, you will receive a 4X6 color print taken by AMA Productions LLC (www.amaproductionsllc.com), and have the digital image emailed, and create a holiday memory to treasure. And even better? You will be helping Boomer's Angels Animal Rescue and Care.
Boomer’s Angels Animal Rescue & Care was formed to give as many homeless and downtrodden animals the brightest future possible. Be an Angel for a homeless pet!
Email boomersangels@gmail.com or visit our website at www.boomersangels.com, find us on Facebook.
December 21
Therapy Dog Dressed as Santa
Therapy dog Quincy (dressed as Santa Claus) and therapy dog-in-training Webster (dressed as an elf) will be at the Blue Mt. Community Library storytime at 10:30 AM on December 21 and 22.
December 23
PAHS Senior Citizens Holiday Party
The Pen Argyl Area High School Sophomore Class Officers and National Honor Society Members are excited to host the annual Senior Citizens Holiday Party on Friday, December 23.Pen Argyl High School students and faculty cordially invite all senior citizens of the Pen Argyl Area School District to a fun filled day of food, music, and activities!
The holiday party will be held in the school – Gym, located at 501 West Laurel Ave, doors open at 8:15am and the
party will be held from 8:30am – 12:30pm; please RSVP by Friday, December 16th by calling 610-863-1293.
The holiday party will be held in the school – Gym, located at 501 West Laurel Ave, doors open at 8:15am and the
party will be held from 8:30am – 12:30pm; please RSVP by Friday, December 16th by calling 610-863-1293.
December 24
Trinity Lutheran Christmas Eve Services
Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bangor will hold Christmas Eve Service at 7:00pm and 11:00pm.
Portland Christmas Eve Services
Christmas Eve services will be held at Refiners Fire Ministry Division St., Portland PA December 24 at 6:30pm, and nd Portland Baptist Church Delaware Ave., Portland at 7:00 PM.
East Bangor Christmas Eve Service
The East Bangor United Methodist Community Church will have a Christmas Eve "Candlelight Service of Carols" beginning at 7:00 p.m. The church is located at 136 W. Central Ave. (Rt. 512), East Bangor, Pa. For more info, call 610-588-4453, or visit www.ebumc.org.
January 1
New Year’s Day Pork and Sauerkraut Dinner
Belfast Wesley United Methodist Church, 607 School Rd Nazareth, will hold an All You Can Eat Pork and Sauerkraut Dinner, Sunday January 1, 2017 from 1:00PM-4:00PM
Cost is Adult- $10.00 Child 3yr-10yr- $5.00 , Under 3 Free. Please call Tom for more information 610-863-7772
Cost is Adult- $10.00 Child 3yr-10yr- $5.00 , Under 3 Free. Please call Tom for more information 610-863-7772
Portland New Year's Day Bingo
Portland Hook and Ladder company # one will hold a New Year's Day bingo. Doors open at 10 AM, bingo starts at 2 PM. Come out it ring in the new year and support your local fire company.
New Year's Day Bingo
New Year's Day Bingo with a $2,150 jackpot will be held at Kemp American Legion, East Stroudsburg at 7:00pm, Doors open at 5:30. Tickets are $50 in advance or $60 at the door. Call/text Sharon at 570.656.7964 or Martha 570.801.2900 or Facebook: Cavalier Booster Bingo.
NewYear's First Day Hikes
Get out and get hiking at Jacobsburg on the first day of 2017! Join center educators Lauren Forster and Rick Wiltraut for two-mile interpretive hikes on moderate terrain. They will explore the old growth forest of Henrys Woods and wildlife along the Homestead Trail. The hikes will start at 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM from the flag pole in front of the visitor center at 400 Belfast Road. Bring comfortable hiking shoes, a water bottle, and wear layers. Registration is required.
You can also view and 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.
Get out and get hiking at Jacobsburg on the first day of 2017! Join center educators Lauren Forster and Rick Wiltraut for two-mile interpretive hikes on moderate terrain. They will explore the old growth forest of Henrys Woods and wildlife along the Homestead Trail. The hikes will start at 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM from the flag pole in front of the visitor center at 400 Belfast Road. Bring comfortable hiking shoes, a water bottle, and wear layers. Registration is required.
You can also view and 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.
January 5
Pocono Arts January 2017 Studio Class
STROUDSBURG – The Pocono Arts Council will offer the following classes during the month of January. Classes, unless noted otherwise, are held at the Pocono Arts Cultural Center, 18 N. Seventh St., Stroudsburg. To register call PoconoArts at 570-476-4460 or register on line at www.poconoarts.org.
ONGOING OIL PAINTING
Instructor John McAllister
Thursdays 6:30-8:30pm
January 5, 12, 19, 26
This ongoing workshop focuses on the individual, helping them to develop their own personal style and technique working with the oil medium. Learn how to develop your painting by understanding drawing and composition. Working at your own pace, you pick the subject while the instructor guides you through the painting process.
Tuition: Member $75/Non-Member $85: Senior Member $65/Non-Member $75
ONGOING OIL PAINTING
Instructor John McAllister
Thursdays 6:30-8:30pm
January 5, 12, 19, 26
This ongoing workshop focuses on the individual, helping them to develop their own personal style and technique working with the oil medium. Learn how to develop your painting by understanding drawing and composition. Working at your own pace, you pick the subject while the instructor guides you through the painting process.
Tuition: Member $75/Non-Member $85: Senior Member $65/Non-Member $75
January 9
NCC RN/LPN Free Information Session
Northampton Community College (NCC) will hold a free information session about its RN/LPN Reactivation Program on Monday, January 9, from 6:00 – 7:00 p.m., at the Fowler Family Southside Center, room 505, 411 E. Third Street, Bethlehem.
RN/LPN program classes, which will start in January, are designed for nurses who have been out of the workforce and are interested in returning, nursing graduates who need to review for the NCLEX (National Council Licensing Exam), and international nurses wishing to practice in Pennsylvania.
Registration is required. To register for the information session, visit Northampton.edu/NursingCE. For more information call 610-332-8665.
RN/LPN program classes, which will start in January, are designed for nurses who have been out of the workforce and are interested in returning, nursing graduates who need to review for the NCLEX (National Council Licensing Exam), and international nurses wishing to practice in Pennsylvania.
Registration is required. To register for the information session, visit Northampton.edu/NursingCE. For more information call 610-332-8665.
Bangor Elks Yoga
The Bangor Elks Lodge is now offering Yoga beginning Monday, January 9 and running six weeks through February 13 starting at 6:45 PM. The cost is $60. Walk-ins are welcome at $12 per week. Remit to Bangor Elks, 120 Broadway Bangor. Beginners welcome.
January 10
Free Workshop on Locating Grant Sources
Free Workshop on Locating Grant Sources to be Held at Northampton Community College
Representatives from non-profit agencies who want to learn more about locating grant sources are invited to register to attend a free workshop at Northampton Community College’s (NCC) Mack Library, 3835 Green Pond Road, Bethlehem Township, on Tuesday, Jan. 10 from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. It will highlight services provided by the Foundation Center, and introduce the Foundation Directory Online database that comprises information on over 100,000 grant makers. Participants will have an opportunity to use the online database, and should bring a flashdrive to save information.
To make a reservation call 610-861-5358 between Dec. 1 – 23, 2016, or Jan. 3-6, 2017.
Free Workshop on Locating Grant Sources to be Held at Northampton Community College
Representatives from non-profit agencies who want to learn more about locating grant sources are invited to register to attend a free workshop at Northampton Community College’s (NCC) Mack Library, 3835 Green Pond Road, Bethlehem Township, on Tuesday, Jan. 10 from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. It will highlight services provided by the Foundation Center, and introduce the Foundation Directory Online database that comprises information on over 100,000 grant makers. Participants will have an opportunity to use the online database, and should bring a flashdrive to save information.
To make a reservation call 610-861-5358 between Dec. 1 – 23, 2016, or Jan. 3-6, 2017.
January 11
Learn to Start and Operate a Business at NCC Seminar
For aspiring business owners and people interested in Lehigh Valley commerce, Northampton Community College (NCC) is offering a seminar, “The Fab Lab, the Lehigh Valley and the Entrepreneur,” on Wednesday, January 11, 6:30 – 9:30 p.m., at the Fab Lab at NCC’s Fowler Family Southside Center, 511 E. Third Street, Bethlehem.
The seminar will show the ways an entrepreneur can find support to begin a business in the Lehigh Valley. The course covers conceptual design, prototyping, manufacturing, fulfillment, business planning, financial incentives and investors, and legal and professional options. For those not starting a business, participants can learn how the local economy is growing and thriving. The seminar will be taught by Harvard graduate Henry Ancker and NCC Fab Lab Director Jeffrey Boerner.
The NCC Fab Lab, which began in 2011, offers open access to state-of-the-art technologies, including a full metal and woodshop, 3-D printers, laser cutters, a sound lab, a guitar-making studio, recording studio, cold casting, and more. The fab lab has 80 classes and 27 instructors that include master craftsmen, entrepreneurs and expert technicians. It is open to the entire community---individuals, companies, and students.
The fee is $110. For more information call 610-332-8665. To register, visit www.northampton.edu/lifelearn and click on the Fab Lab section.
The seminar will show the ways an entrepreneur can find support to begin a business in the Lehigh Valley. The course covers conceptual design, prototyping, manufacturing, fulfillment, business planning, financial incentives and investors, and legal and professional options. For those not starting a business, participants can learn how the local economy is growing and thriving. The seminar will be taught by Harvard graduate Henry Ancker and NCC Fab Lab Director Jeffrey Boerner.
The NCC Fab Lab, which began in 2011, offers open access to state-of-the-art technologies, including a full metal and woodshop, 3-D printers, laser cutters, a sound lab, a guitar-making studio, recording studio, cold casting, and more. The fab lab has 80 classes and 27 instructors that include master craftsmen, entrepreneurs and expert technicians. It is open to the entire community---individuals, companies, and students.
The fee is $110. For more information call 610-332-8665. To register, visit www.northampton.edu/lifelearn and click on the Fab Lab section.
PA Farm Show Bus Trip
The Pennsylvania Farm Show is a great way to learn about farming, agriculture, and where your food comes from, and you don’t want to miss it! Here is your chance to beat the traffic by taking a bus coordinated by Lehigh County 4-H and Penn State Extension.
Wednesday, January 11, 2017 Price $30/person
8:00 a.m. — Depart Lehigh County Ag Center, 4184 Dorney Park Road, Allentown
3:30 p.m. — Depart PA Farm Show Complex, Harrisburg
5:00 p.m. — Arrive at Lehigh County Ag Center (approximately)
The day's events include agricultural education demonstrations, cooking demonstrations, plus all the exhibits and outstanding Pennsylvania food products. We will provide a schedule of events when you get on the bus.
For more information call the Lehigh County Extension office at 610-391-9840 or email lehighext@psu.edu.
The Pennsylvania Farm Show is a great way to learn about farming, agriculture, and where your food comes from, and you don’t want to miss it! Here is your chance to beat the traffic by taking a bus coordinated by Lehigh County 4-H and Penn State Extension.
Wednesday, January 11, 2017 Price $30/person
8:00 a.m. — Depart Lehigh County Ag Center, 4184 Dorney Park Road, Allentown
3:30 p.m. — Depart PA Farm Show Complex, Harrisburg
5:00 p.m. — Arrive at Lehigh County Ag Center (approximately)
The day's events include agricultural education demonstrations, cooking demonstrations, plus all the exhibits and outstanding Pennsylvania food products. We will provide a schedule of events when you get on the bus.
For more information call the Lehigh County Extension office at 610-391-9840 or email lehighext@psu.edu.
January 21
Trappers Fur Auction
January 21st, 2017-Pennsylvania Trappers Association District 10 Live Bid Fur Auction at **NEW LOCATION** Stockertown Rod & Gun Club (205 Le Fevre Rd. Stockertown, PA 18083),. Doors open at 8am, auction starts at 9am. PTA membership and furtaker's license required. Contact: Bob Counterman 610-759-9203.-332-6585.
February 11
Liz Tech Bingo
Liz Tech bingo will be held at the Portland Hook and Ladder Fire Company # one Saturday, February 11. Tickets are $25 in advance. Sponsorships available. Doors open at 11 AM. Bingo starts at 1 PM. More info: call Stephanie at 610-216-6716.

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.
Blue Valley Farm Show Complex
700 American Bangor Road
Bangor, ph 610-588-1224
Hours: 8:00 A.M.-4:00 P.M.
DECEMBER EVENTS
Christmas music and hot chocolate, Friday, December 2, 9:00 A.M. and Deck the Halls
Thank a volunteer Day, Friday, December 9th
Baseball, Friday, December 16th, 10:00 A.M.
Snowball fight, Friday, December 16, 12:15 P.M.
Candy Cane day, December 20th
CHRISTMAS PARTY, CHAS BAND, Registration Required, Wednesday, December, 21th
Council officers meeting, Thursday, December 22, 9:00 A.M.
CLOSING , DECEMBER 23 AT NOON.,
CLOSED DECEMBER 26, MERRY CHRISTMAS
Left over cookie and fruit cake day-bring all you want to get rid of, Tuesday, December 27th
NEW YEAR'S MEAL, Friday, December 20th
Pen Argyl - December 2016
MTD: 1.36 YTD: 43.21 Normal: 3.61
01 - .14
02 - .00 03 - .00 04 - .00 05 -. 27 06 - .31 07 - .23 08 - .00 09 - .00 10 - .00 11 - .00 12 - .31 13 - .00 14 - .00 15 - .00 16 - .00 |
17 - .00
18 - .00 19 - .00 20 - .09 21 - .00 22 - .00 23 - .00 24 - .00 25 - .00 26 - .00 27 - .00 28 - .00 29 - .00 30 - .00 31 - .00 |
Snowfall 2016-17
Date |
Total |
YTD |
Nov. 27 |
1.00 |
1.00 |
Dec. 5 |
1.50 |
2.50 |
Dec. 6 |
1.00 |
3.00 |
Dec. 11 |
.50 |
3.50 |
Blue Mt. Library New Books
New Adult Fiction:
The Vanishing Year, Kate Moretti
Winter Storms, Elin Hildebrand
The Kept Woman, Karin Slaughter
Two By Two, Nicholas Sparks
Inheriting Edith, Zoe Fishman
Order To Kill, Vince Flynn
Escape Clause, John Sandford
The Twelve Dogs of Christmas, David Rosenfelt
The Promise Kitchen, Peggy Lampman
Small Great Things, Jodi Picoult
The Wonder, Emma Donoghue
Commonwealth, Ann Patchett
The Other Einstein, Marie Benedict
The Wrong Side of Goodbye, Michael Connelly
Night School, Lee Child
The Chemist, Stephenie Meyer
Faithful, Alice Hoffman
New Adult Large Print:
The Whistler, John Grisham
The Sleeping Beauty Killer, Mary Higgins Clark
Fates and Traitors, Jennifer Chiaverini
No Man's Land, David Baldacci
This Was A Man, Jeffrey Archer
The Secret Ingredients of Wishes, Susan B. Crispell
New Non-fiction:
Marrow, Elizabeth Lesser
Born To Run, Bruce Springsteen
Wild and Precious Life, Deborah Ziegler
Thomas Jefferson and the Tripoli Pirates, Brian Kilmeade
Settle for More, Megyn Kelly
The Vanishing Year, Kate Moretti
Winter Storms, Elin Hildebrand
The Kept Woman, Karin Slaughter
Two By Two, Nicholas Sparks
Inheriting Edith, Zoe Fishman
Order To Kill, Vince Flynn
Escape Clause, John Sandford
The Twelve Dogs of Christmas, David Rosenfelt
The Promise Kitchen, Peggy Lampman
Small Great Things, Jodi Picoult
The Wonder, Emma Donoghue
Commonwealth, Ann Patchett
The Other Einstein, Marie Benedict
The Wrong Side of Goodbye, Michael Connelly
Night School, Lee Child
The Chemist, Stephenie Meyer
Faithful, Alice Hoffman
New Adult Large Print:
The Whistler, John Grisham
The Sleeping Beauty Killer, Mary Higgins Clark
Fates and Traitors, Jennifer Chiaverini
No Man's Land, David Baldacci
This Was A Man, Jeffrey Archer
The Secret Ingredients of Wishes, Susan B. Crispell
New Non-fiction:
Marrow, Elizabeth Lesser
Born To Run, Bruce Springsteen
Wild and Precious Life, Deborah Ziegler
Thomas Jefferson and the Tripoli Pirates, Brian Kilmeade
Settle for More, Megyn Kelly
Bangor Library New Books
Adult Fiction
The Confession by Beverly Lewis;
Silent Night by Robert B. Parker.
Adult non Fiction
War Letters: Extraordinary Correspondence from American Wars Edited by Andrew Carroll;
The Sixth Extinction: an Unnatural History by Elizabeth Kolbert; Code Talker by Chester Nez.
Junior Fiction
The Lost Heir by Tui Sutherland.
Easy Reader Fiction
I Can Be a Farm Vet by Apple Jordan; Otter.
The Best Job Ever! By Sam Garton; Talent Show
Mix up by Dan Gutman;
Froggy Is the Best by Jonathan London.
Easy Fiction
I Love You Forever by Margaret Park Bridges;
Sneak-a-peek Words by Aimee Chapman; Now! By Tracey Corderoy;
Let’s Play, Dory! By Bonita Garr;
Pinkalicious and Aqua, the Mini Mermaid by Victoria Kann;
Sidekick Showdown; Race Around the World by Trey King;
Peppa Pig and the Day at the Museum;Peppe Pig and the I Love You Game;
Go, Pete, Go! By James Dean;
Won’t You Be My Kissaroo? By Joanne Ryder;
That’s Not My Owl: its Beak Is Too Shiny; That’s Not My Prince: His Hat Is Too Soft by Fiona Watt.
Dvds
Break Point;
I Smile Back; the Manchurian Candidate;
99 Homes.
The Confession by Beverly Lewis;
Silent Night by Robert B. Parker.
Adult non Fiction
War Letters: Extraordinary Correspondence from American Wars Edited by Andrew Carroll;
The Sixth Extinction: an Unnatural History by Elizabeth Kolbert; Code Talker by Chester Nez.
Junior Fiction
The Lost Heir by Tui Sutherland.
Easy Reader Fiction
I Can Be a Farm Vet by Apple Jordan; Otter.
The Best Job Ever! By Sam Garton; Talent Show
Mix up by Dan Gutman;
Froggy Is the Best by Jonathan London.
Easy Fiction
I Love You Forever by Margaret Park Bridges;
Sneak-a-peek Words by Aimee Chapman; Now! By Tracey Corderoy;
Let’s Play, Dory! By Bonita Garr;
Pinkalicious and Aqua, the Mini Mermaid by Victoria Kann;
Sidekick Showdown; Race Around the World by Trey King;
Peppa Pig and the Day at the Museum;Peppe Pig and the I Love You Game;
Go, Pete, Go! By James Dean;
Won’t You Be My Kissaroo? By Joanne Ryder;
That’s Not My Owl: its Beak Is Too Shiny; That’s Not My Prince: His Hat Is Too Soft by Fiona Watt.
Dvds
Break Point;
I Smile Back; the Manchurian Candidate;
99 Homes.