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Winter Weather Advisory 10 PM Tonight To 7 AM Tuesday
Mixed precipitation expected. Total snow accumulations of up to one inch and ice accumulations of a light glaze expected in portions of northern and northwest New Jersey, the Lehigh Valley, and southern Poconos. From 10 PM this evening to 7 AM EST Tuesday. Plan on slippery road conditions, especially during the Tuesday morning commute.

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HELP WANTED ..... Lower Mount Bethel Township is seeking an Emergency Management Coordinator pursuant to the PA Emergency Management Services Code. This is a volunteer position. The EMC will be paid $50.00 per meeting attended including monthly hazard mitigation meetings, quarterly EMC meetings and quarterly Board of Supervisors meetings. The EMC shall be reimbursed for travel, meals and hotel room when attending over 50 miles with receipts and approval from the Board of Supervisors. A copy of Description and Duties is available at the LMBT office or via email. If interested email mmastrogiovanni@lowermtbethel.org or phone (610) 252-5074.

PICTURES WANTED ..... of the interior of G. C. Murphy store in Bangor. Contact Reed Treible 610-588-7386 or basehit3@epix.net

Today's Weather

Today - Partly sunny, with a high near 33. North wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the morning.
Tonight - A slight chance of freezing rain and sleet before 11pm, then a chance of snow and sleet between 11pm and 2am, then snow, freezing rain, and sleet likely after 2am. Cloudy, with a low around 28. South wind 5 to 8 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70%. New ice accumulation of less than a 0.1 of an inch possible. New snow and sleet accumulation of less than one inch possible.

Hazardous Weather Outlook.......

Winter Weather Advisory: Mixed precipitation expected. Total snow accumulations of up to one inch and ice accumulations of a light glaze expected in portions of northern and northwest New Jersey, the Lehigh Valley, and southern Poconos. From 10 PM this evening to 7 AM EST Tuesday. Plan on slippery road conditions, especially during the Tuesday morning commute.

Travel Alerts.......

SLATE BELT

PA 512 Between: Bushkill Center Road and North Delaware Drive. Crack Sealing Lane restrictions. Start date: 1/7/19 Est completion date: 1/11/19
Restrictions in effect (time of day): 09:00 AM To 02:00 PM

MAJOR AREA ROADS

NEW Interstate 78 West Between: Exit 54 (US 222) and Exit 49 (PA 100) Nighttime Lane restrictions Start date: 1/7/19 Est completion date: 1/10/19 Restrictions in effect 08:00 PM To 05:00 AM Will rain cause delays? Yes
NEW Interstate 80 West Between: Exit 303 (Ninth Street) and Exit 308 (East Stroudsburg) Nighttime Lane restrictions. Start date: 1/7/19 Est completion date: 1/11/19 Restrictions in effect (time of day): 10:00 PM To 05:00 AM Will rain cause delays? Yes
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 PA 33 North Between: Saylorsburg and US 209/PA 33 Split Crack Sealing Expect significant delays Start date: 1/7/19 Est completion date: 1/10/19 Restrictions in effect (time of day): 09:00 AM To 03:00 PM

NEW JERSEY.

None

Flu Cases Growing......

Local Flu Report
Pennsylvania Department of Health
Week Ending December 29

County	Type A	Type B	Total
Northampton	N.A.	N.A.	N.A.
Monroe	189	00	189
Lehigh	407	21	428

Sports......

See Bangor and Pen Argyl wrestling results, individual stats, scores and schedules at towntopicssports.com

Stick to Fitness Resolutions

If you’ve promised yourself to be more active in 2019, you have lots of company.
Almost two-thirds of people — 59 percent — who are making a New Year’s resolution say their goal is to exercise more, It’s the top resolution on a list that also includes eating healthier, saving money and losing weight.
Many people will quickly find out how difficult keeping that promise can be.  To boost your chances of success, Brandon Alderman, an expert in exercise psychology, has some unique and practical advice:
First, make it your goal to put on exercise clothes when you come home from work.  For people who find it difficult to incorporate exercise into their lives, setting a vague goal to work out "more" can be daunting. But the simple act of changing into exercise clothes takes the pressure off, while putting you on the right path.  Once you’ve got those biking shorts, running shoes or yoga pants on, you might as well do a workout.
Second, focus on the immediate benefits of exercise.  One problem is that when people make a resolution to exercise more, often they’re doing that for the potential long-term benefits of exercise such as losing weight or looking better.  But it’s debatable whether exercise alone can do that without accompanying changes in diet.
Lastly, remember the best type of exercise is the exercise you'll actually do.  Pick an activity you like: walking, dancing, swimming, running, jumping rope or whatever fits your life. Americans are sitting for extremely long periods of time and becoming more and more inactive, so even low-level activity that replaces being completely sedentary is good.
The government's exercise guidelines call for adults to get at least 2 ½ hours to five hours a week of moderate intensity exercise; or 1 hour, 15 minutes to 2 ½ hours of intense activity every week.

News Shorts.........

Monday Bingo, Kunkletown Fire Co, 7:00pm
The Civil Air Patrol 807th Braden Squadron meets every Monday Night from 6:30 to 8:30 at the Bangor VFW or Braden Airpark, Easton. Call for meeting location on given night: 610-588-1459 http://cap807.com/
Support for Veterans 1st Monday of every month. Meet with Lt. Col. (Retired) Dominick Nati, a former Army Air Corps pilot, at Rep. Joe Emrick's Nazareth district office from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Call 610) 588-8011 or (610) 746-5090 to make an appointment.
PA State Farm Show runs until January 12th in Harrisburg.

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/
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)

PA State Farm Show
The 103rd Pennsylvania Farm Show will run through Saturday, Jan. 12. This year’s theme is “Inspiring Pennsylvania’s Story.”
In addition to all the delicious food offerings, the Farm Show features 6,000 animals, 10,000 competitive exhibits and 300 commercial exhibitors.
Admission to the show is free, but parking is $15 per vehicle. Shuttle service is provided.

January 7 Regular Events

Bingo - Kunkletown Fire Co. Progressive Jackpot. 7pm
Blue Mountain Library - Open 10-12 & 6-8pm
Bangor Public Library - Open 1-8
Slate Belt Senior Center - Open 8-4. Blue Valley Farm Show
Pen Argyl Sewer Committee - 4:30 P.M. Council Chambers
Pen Argyl Municipal Authority - 6:00 P.M. Council Chambers
Washington Township Zoning Board - Municipal Building, 7pm.
Roseto Borough Council - Municipal Building, 7:30pm
Knights of Columbus Ladies Auxiliary - Council Home, 7:30-9:30pm
Lower Mount Bethel Supervisors - Meets Centerfield Building, 7pm
Wind Gap Borough Council - 7:30pm, 29 Mechanic St.
Portland Borough Council - Borough Hall, 7:00pm
Pen Argyl GFWC - St. John , Pen Argyl, 7pm
Write Night - Collaborative writer's group. Nazareth Center for the Arts, 7-9pm
Slate Belt YMCA - Open 5:00am - 9:00pm

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.

CLICK HERE FOR 45-60 DAY CALENDAR

Wood Burning Class
Join us on Saturday, January 12th from 10 am to 12 pm 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

Youth Group Breakfast
Youth Group Breakfast fundraiser on Sunday, January 13th from 9:30-11:30 am at Grace UMC. We will have pancakes, eggs sausage, Steve's special hash browns, coffee, tea, juice and breakfast treats. Free will donation.

Entertainment This Week

January 8
Sarah Street Grill - Christian Porter 9:30 pm

January 9
Porters' Pub - Traditional Open Irish Jam Session 7:30 pm
Sarah Street Grill - Open Mic Night 9:15 pm

January 10
Deer Head Inn - Jazz Jam with Bill Washer & Friends - 8:00 pm
Sarah Street Grill - Hamill & Johnny 9:30 pm

January 11
Deer Head Inn - Troy Roberts 7:00 pm
Porters' Pub - Al Smith & Friends 10:00 pm
Roy's Hall - International Guitar Summit 8:00 pm
Sarah Street Grill - Keith Kenny 10:00 pm

Birch Trees Painting
It’s a new year - let’s start it off with getting creative and making beautiful things!  Join Karin at Bloom Creataive Studio in painting this beautiful Birch Trees painting on Sunday, January 13th at 6 pm. Cost of $35.00 includes all material and instruction. Every purchase benefits our mission to help women survivors of violence and addiction.  REGISTER HERE

Bushkill Creek Project Receives Grant
The Bushkill Stream Conservancy has received an $80,000 grant to implement the Bushkill Creek Restoration and Habitat Enhancement Project in Tatamy and Palmer Township.
The funds will be used to install structures in the creek and create a better habitat for aquatic life, as well as install riparian buffers that will stabilize 1.5 miles of stream bank through the Borough of Tatamy. Once those buffers are installed, more than 6,500 feet of the stream will be restored allowing for better water flow.

THIS DAY IN HISTORY - January 7

First U.S. presidential election 1789

On this day in 1789, America’s first presidential election is held. Voters cast ballots to choose state electors; only white men who owned property were allowed to vote. As expected, George Washington won the election and was sworn into office on April 30, 1789.
As it did in 1789, the United States still uses the Electoral College system, established by the U.S. Constitution, which today gives all American citizens over the age of 18 the right to vote for electors, who in turn vote for the president. The president and vice president are the only elected federal officials chosen by the Electoral College instead of by direct popular vote.
Today political parties usually nominate their slate of electors at their state conventions or by a vote of the party’s central state committee, with party loyalists often being picked for the job. Members of the U.S. Congress, though, can’t be electors. Each state is allowed to choose as many electors as it has senators and representatives in Congress. The District of Columbia has 3 electors. During a presidential election year, on Election Day (the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November), the electors from the party that gets the most popular votes are elected in a winner-take-all-system, with the exception of Maine and Nebraska, which allocate electors proportionally. In order to win the presidency, a candidate needs a majority of 270 electoral votes out of a possible 538.

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.

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

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

ALLERGIES TODAY: POLLEN DONE FOR THE SEASON

Pen Argyl, Pennsylvania, weather forecast

See More Info at....
slatebeltweather.com

MTD 0.32 YTD: 0.32 Normal: 3.08

See More Info at....
slatebeltweather.com

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January 10

Glass Painting
Bloom's Monthly Thursday night Glass Painting is from 6:30-8:30pm on January 10th. Join Karin & the regulars @ the Craft Bar for a fun night of glass painting. One Glass, paint & instruction all included! Additional glasses available for $5.00 ea. Register HERE

January 11

Family Night: Fish Printing at Jacobsburg
Friday, January 11 at 6:30pm to 7:30pm. Learn the Japanese art of Gyotaku or fish printing. We’ll use paint and model fish to make prints of various Pennsylvania species. We will also study their anatomy and habitat needs to create accurate paintings of fish in the wild. Paper will be provided, but you are welcome to bring a bandana or t-shirt to print on. It is recommended that you wear old clothes or a smock. 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.
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.

January 12

Winter Bird Walk
Hosted by Waste Management's Grand Central Environmental Education Center. Like birds? Like photography? Join Jacobsburg State Park's Rick Wiltraut and WM's Adrienne Fors Saturday, January 12, 2019 at 12:00 pm for a winter bird walk around the landfill property. Guests will meet at the education center (891 Grand Central Road Pen Argyl) Bring cameras, binoculars and dress for the weather. Any cancellations, will be posted on the event page. All ages welcome. Please contact Adrienne at afors1@wm.com with any questions

Pastie Sale
It's that time again for you to enjoy our delicious pasties. $5 gets you a homemade pasty from our dedicated cooks. You can have them with or without onions. Order now by calling Carolyn at 610-905-2173 or by placing your order online at our website: www.firstumcbangor.com/pasty. Pickup is on Saturday, January 12th, from 9:00 am till noon. Thank you for your support!

Wood Burning Class
Join us on Saturday, January 12th from 10 am to 12 pm 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

January 13

The Life of Jean Pinto
On Sunday, January 13th at 2:00 PM Terry Toth will present "The Life of Jean Pinto" at the Slate Belt Heritage Center. This program replaces "History of the Mummers" which will be presented at a later date.

Birch Trees Painting
It’s a new year - let’s start it off with getting creative and making beautiful things! Join Karin at Bloom Creataive Studio in painting this beautiful Birch Trees painting on Sunday, January 13th at 6 pm. Cost of $35.00 includes all material and instruction. Every purchase benefits our mission to help women survivors of violence and addiction. REGISTER HERE

Youth Group Breakfast
Youth Group Breakfast fundraiser on Sunday, January 13th from 9:30-11:30 am at Grace UMC. We will have pancakes, eggs sausage, Steve's special hash browns, coffee, tea, juice and breakfast treats. Free will donation.

January 14

Slate Belt AARP Meeting
The Slate Belt AARP Chapter 4135 will hold its January meeting on the 14th at 1pm at the Slate Belt Senior Center in the Blue Valley Farm Show. They will have a guest speaker. Everyone is welcome to attend to learn what AARP has to offer seniors.

January 16

Annual Winter Bird Count
Saturday, January 16 at 8:00am to 4:00 pm. Join us as we spend the day counting birds at Jacobsburg and other places within a 5-mile radius of the Visitor Center. Participants should dress for the weather and bring binoculars, warm beverages, and a lunch. Van transportation available for all day participants. Participants must drive their own vehicle if they have to leave early. 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.

January 19

Snow Show
Snow Show, hosted by Jacktown-Blue Mountain Antique Gas & Steam Engine Association is one of the first shows of the year on the east coast! Join them at Jacktown Grove on Saturday January 19, 2019 from 8-4. This event is snow or shine! There will be a gas engine display, bon fire with hot dogs, hot cocoa, flea market and other food available. Hope to see you there!

Special Event at Bangor Library
The Bangor Public library will be host a special Snowflake Bentley Story and Craft event on January 19th from 1:00-3:00 pm for youth from ages 5-12.

Celtic Hymn Night
Supporting its mission of promoting and preserving Celtic heritage through music, arts, dance, history and literature, Celtic Cultural Alliance is sponsoring a free Celtic Hymn night on January 19, 2019 at Life in Christ Church, 51 E. Hillmond St., Bethlhem PA from 7:00 until 8:30 pm.
Come warm up on a cold January Saturday night by enjoying a night of classic Celtic hymns from Ireland, Scotland, and Wales! Over the past few centuries until today, many classic hymns that you regularly sing have been penned by a songwriter from one of the Celtic nations. Attendees will learn the history of the hymns and then sing-a-long. Featuring local musicians, the event will be an inspiring night of music that will celebrate the rich history and tradition of Celtic hymns.
For more information on the Celtic Classic Highland Games & Festival and other Celtic Cultural Alliance events, visit the organization’s website at www.celticfest.org.

January 21

Indoor Carnival
On Monday, January 21, 2019, the Blue Mountain Community Library will be celebrating Martin Luther King, JR Day with an INDOOR CARNIVAL for children ages 3-8 years old. The fun begins at 12:30 pm and lasts until 2:00 pm at the Library and includes Story Time – Crafts – Activities – Prizes and therapy dog “QUINCY” will be here. All children, accompanied by an adult, are welcome to come and Join the Fun!!
In keeping with MLK’s message of Service and Giving, our volunteers will be giving their time to Serve our community. If you are able, please bring a non-perishable item which will be given to the Food Pantry at Bender’s Church.
BMCL is located at 216 S. Robinson Ave., Pen Argyl. Call 610-863-3029 for information or visit www.bmcl.org. Find us on Facebook at
www.facebook.com/bmclpenargyl.

Winter Bible Study
The East Bangor United Methodist Community Church will offer a 6-week winter study on the “Jefferson Bible: The Life and Morals of Jesus of Nazareth.” The study will begin on January 21st at 7:00 p.m. Our third president, Thomas Jefferson, also held an interest in theology – rational theology. He “created” his own bible of Jesus’ teachings through a “cut and paste” process in which he combines the gospels into a chronological look at the life of Jesus. It is recommended that you have a copy of the Jefferson Bible for this study. The church is located at 136 W. Central Ave. (Rt. 512), East Bangor, PA. For more information, call 610-588-4453 or visit ebumc.org.

January 23 & 24

Landscape Contractor Workshop
Landscape contractors are invited to this two-day intensive workshop which will be held on January 23 & 24, 2019 in conference rooms 205 and 206 at the Penn State Great Valley Campus in Malvern, PA. We will discuss how to determine the overhead of operating a landscaping business and create a profitable bid. There will be opportunities to ask questions and explore bidding practices with other contractors.
The cost to attend this class is $200. Pre-registration and payment is required by January 22, 2019. To register go to: https://extension,psu.ed/landscape-bidding or 877-345-0691. Questions regarding class can be directed to Emelie Swackhamer at exs33@psu.edu. Individuals can also call Penn State Extension at 610-489-4315.

January 25
Build a Living Terrarium at the Elks
Terrarium Making , Hosted by Grace on Broadway, will be held 6:30 PM Friday, January, 25 at the Bangor Elks, 120 Broadway, Bangor.
Join them and create living terrariums! All Materials will be provided for the class which costs $25 and includes materials for one terrarium. You may order an additional terrarium for $10. Tickets cannot be shared or split. Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult since these are glass orbs. Each terrarium will consist of: Glass Orb, Two Succulents, River Rock, Moss, Soil and two mini figurines.
The Elks will have the Kitchen and bar open. So bring your appetite and grab a drink.
Tickets MUST be purchased NO LATER than JANUARY 16th to ensure that all materials are purchased and available for each participant.
Tickets can be purchased at GRACE ON BROADWAY, or at BANGOR ELKS 1106, Or online at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/terrarium-making-tickets-54258659110

January 26

Introduction to Snowshoeing at Jacobsburg
Saturday, January 26, at 9:30am to 11:30am. Learn how to use snowshoes and trekking poles to explore Jacobsburg’s trails in the winter. You may bring your own equipment or borrow ours. We will also learn how to prepare ourselves for outdoor excursions in the winter time. If we don’t get any snow we’ll hike in our boots with the trekking poles. The hike will be about two miles. Bring water and a snack. Wear waterproof boots and dress for the weather. Registration is required. You will be asked to specify your weight range when registering; this is to determine what size snowshoe you will need.
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.

Snowshoeing for Scouts at Jacobsburg
Saturday, January 26, at 1:00pm to 3:00pm Scouts will learn how to prepare for being outdoors in winter as well as how to use snowshoes. We’ll go for a hike in snowshoes, stopping along the way to talk about winter outdoor scenarios and how to prepare for them. If we don’t get any snow we’ll hike in our boots. The hike will be about two miles. Bring water and a snack. Wear waterproof boots and dress for the weather. Registration is required. You will be asked to specify your weight range when registering; this is to determine what size snowshoe you will need.
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.

January 27

Beer & Wine Bingo
Beer & Wine Bingo hosted by Lookout Fire Company #1 will be held Sunday, January 27, 2019 from 1 PM – 5 PM at Weona Park Youth Center
Weona Park, Pen Argyl, Pennsylvania 18072. Come out and play for the chance to win 2 single barrel kegerators , 2 24 bottle wine coolers, and tons of prizes including beer, wine, and other great items for your home bar just in time for Super Bowl Sunday. THIS IS A 21 AND OLDER EVENT ONLY. ALL ID'S WILL BE CHECKED BEFORE ADMITTANCE INTO THE EVENT. TICKETS ARE $25 IN ADVANCE WITH TICKETS LIMITED TO 200. IF TICKETS ARE STILL AVAILABLE, THEY WILL BE $35 AT THE DOOR.

Wine, Food & Spirits
Pocono Winter Wine, Food, & Spirits Festival '19 hosted by Sherman Theater and The Pocono Winter Wine, Food, & Spirits Festival- Sunday, January 27th, 12:00pm - 4:30pm.
Designed to introduce attendees to a variety of local wines produced in the heart of the Poconos, as well as select wineries from the Pennsylvania Wine Trail, The Pocono Winter Wine, Food, & Spirits Festival includes complimentary samples of local wine, spirits and fine cuisine, art displays, a variety of wine-related vendors, and free wine-tasting education.
“The wine industry in the Poconos has experienced vigorous growth in the past few years so we are showcasing and celebrating local wineries as well as select wineries of the Pennsylvania Wine Trail,” said Rich Berkowitz, President and CEO of the Sherman Theater, the non-profit organization hosting the event. The Sherman Theater opened in 1929 and has been a landmark and community social center for nearly 100 years.
The Fest features a selection of delicious sweet and savory bites, prepared by local restaurants, to complement the wines. Throughout the tasting area, there will be vendors with wine-related goods as well as displays by local artists.
Join us at the Pocono Winter Wine, Food and Spirits Festival to celebrate the finer things worth savoring in the Poconos. For more information or to purchase tickets, please call 570-420-2808 or visit shermantheater.com.

February 1

Family Night: Raccoon Nation at Jacobsburg
Friday, February 1, at 6:30pm to 8:00pm . Join us for a movie and craft night. We will be screening "Raccoon Nation" from the PBS Nature series. This film investigates whether the increasing complexity of our urban/suburban habitat is advancing the brain development of our raccoon neighbors. 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.

February 9

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.

February 16

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.

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.

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.

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

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
December 27

Adult Fiction
I, Claudius: From the Autobiography of Tiberius Claudius by Robert Graves
Escapade by Diana Palmer
Adult Non Fiction
The Pocket Dictionary of Signing by Rod R. Butterworth
Blood, Toil, Tears and Sweat: The Great Speeches by Winston Churchill
The Selfish Gene by Richard Dawkins
Frank Lloyd Wright by Ada Louise Huxtable
Winston Churchill by John Keegan
Hungry : 300 Under 300 by Lisa Lillien
The Best of It: New and Selected Poems by Kay Ryan
Easy Fiction
Olivia Becomes a Vet by Alex Harvey
Easy Non Fiction
How We Stay Safe Near Electricity by PPL Electric Utilities
DVD’s
Love Begins
The Ring
Snatch
Walking Tall

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