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FIVE DAY FORECAST

Pen Argyl, Pennsylvania, weather forecast

Slate Belt Travel Alert
Bridge outage on FOX GAP RD / CREEK RD / MAIN ST both directions between RIDGE RD and FOX GAP RD / + LAKE MINSI DR. All lanes closed.

oN-gOING ALERTS
(+) To Open (-) To Close

PA - ROUTES 22, 33, 78, 80

Roadwork on I-78 westbound 1.5 miles west of Exit 45: PA 863 - LYNNPORT NEW SMITHVILLE. There is a traffic disruption.
Roadwork on I-78 eastbound .5 miles west of Exit 35: PA 143 - LENHARTSVILLE. There is a traffic disruption.
Lane restrictions on PA 33 in both north and southbound directions. Northbound 33 will be restricted between 7:00 PM to 2:00 PM and southbound between 10:00 AM and 5:00 AM.
Roadwork on PA 33 northbound between Exit: PA 248 - NAZARETH/WILSON and 1 miles NORTH of Exit: PA 248 - NAZARETH/WILSON. There is a shoulder closed.
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 PA 33 southbound 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.

NEW JERSEY - ROUTES 78, 80

SLATE BELT

Slate Belt Travel Alert
Bridge outage on FOX GAP RD / CREEK RD / MAIN ST both directions between RIDGE RD and FOX GAP RD / + LAKE MINSI DR. All lanes closed.

Hazardous Weather Alert
...........None..........

Rivalry Banquet & Game Ticket Sales

The Rivalry Committee will sell banquet and game tickets online at slatebeltrivalry.com
Banquet Ticket sales begin August 5, cost is $60.00. They have 300 printed "commemorative" tickets. Each school will receive 150 for teams, administration, Board of Education, and special guests. There will be 450 seats for public sale.
Game Ticket pre-sale (for parents of players / participants, season ticket holders) will be available from August 19 -25. They will have a code to be used during this time period.
Public reserved bleacher tickets will go on sale Monday, August 26 at 7:00 AM. No season passes, Colonial League passes, or gold cards (senior citizens) will be accepted. Tickets are $10.00. Game day general admission tickets cost $10.00.

Y Breaks Ground for Pool/Gym

Tuesday, the Slate Belt Branch of the Greater Valley YMCA broke ground for the construction of a heated indoor pool, basketball gymnasium and childcare wing. The Slate Belt additions are made possible because of the support of many generous gifts from local donors, Foundations, and community partners. The expansion’s anticipated completion is 2020.
A key community supporter, Pennsylvania State Representative Marcia Hahn, helped make the expansion become a reality for the community. Hahn helped the Y secure $5,000,000 in crucial funding for the project. The funding became available by the State Legislature through passing House Bill 271, which expands gambling in the state. Through this bill, the Y was able to secure funding from Pennsylvania casinos for the expansion of the Slate Belt Branch.
“The funding is generated solely by the Casinos Local Share Account, so no taxpayer dollars are directly used in supporting these grants," Hahn said. "I sat on on discussions about the pool and gymnasium almost 20 years ago as a member of then-State Rep. Craig Dally’s staff. I also remember him telling me how his father, John, talked about this plan in the late 1970s when he was mayor of Pen Argyl.”
David Fagerstrom, President and CEO of the Greater Valley YMCA said “This is an exciting moment for our community. It took patience and years of persistence,.... The addition of the basketball gymnasium, pool and childcare wing will allow the Y to serve many more individuals through life-saving swim lessons, helping seniors stay active and independent, and preparing children socially and academically for success in kindergarten and their futures.
Other key contributors to the Slate Belt Expansion Project are The John and Margaret Post Foundation, The John Jr. and Michael Rohall Jr. Foundation of the Community Foundation of New Jersey, The Wind Gap Chevrolet Buick Foundation, and Lafayette Ambassador Bank.The Y’s Slate Belt Canvassing Committee is currently working to secure the rest of the necessary funding; pledging and naming opportunities are available now.

Plainfield Scholarship Winners

Nine area students were awarded scholarships at the Plainfield Fair Tuesday evening. (L-R Back) Charles Nutaitis (Lafayette College) Kallie Manieri (Northampton Community College) Rachel Kromer (Delaware Valley University) (L-R Front) Megan Pfeiffer (Delaware Valley University) Kandie Gower (Bloomsburg University) KayAnn Kern (Northampton Community College) Not pictured: Carl Nutaitis (Lafayette college) Stephanie Hahn (Northampton Community College) Kristina Tucker (Kings College) Sbtt Photo Lisa Newberry Belt & Beyond

Len Mooney will play at Eastern Monroe Public Library Friday July 26 at 7:30 PM – 9 PM Eastern Monroe Public Library 1002 N 9th St, Stroudsburg, He will be joined by David Diamond on guitar and vocals, and Drew Siciliano on drums. They will be performing some of his orginal compositions as well as classic tunes from the jazz,rock,country,and folk genres.Come on out and help them "Spread the Groove"!

Special Events Happening Soon......

Roseto Summer Recreation
Roseto Borough is happy to announce our 2019 summer recreation program. The dates will be the weeks of July 15 and July 22. We start at 9:00am and end at noon each day, Monday - Friday. There is no cost for Roseto residents and a $30.00 per child for nonresidents. Children that have completed kindergarten up to 6th grade are invited to attend. There will be a registration time on Saturday July 13, 9:00-12:00 at the Roseto ballpark pavilion.

Weekly Weeders!
Wednesday, July 24 from 9:00am to 10:00am, Jacobsburg Park is looking for volunteers to pull weeds in our native plant garden on Wednesday mornings while learning about native plants from one of our educators. We provide gloves, tools, and kneeling mats. Meet at the Visitor Center at 400 Belfast Road, Nazareth.

Summer Fun with Books
This Blue Mountain Community Library program is for preschoolers through students entering third grade. Together, we will read books and participate in an activity. All programs will begin at 10:30 AM. Due to limited space, reserve your spot today! Sign-up sheets are at the front desk starting June 1.

Blue Mt. Library Fundraiser
The Blue Mountain Community Library will hold a Fundraiser at The Scorecard, 130 N. Broadway, Wind Gap, Wednesday, July 24 from 4pm to closing. The Scorecard will donate a portion of all food sales that day to the Library in Pen Argyl. The Fundraiser will include Dine-In or Take-Out orders. Support the library by enjoying good food! The money will be used to purchase new books, meet the many expenses associated with maintaining the library, and for programs offered to the public.
Membership is free to all residents in the Pen Argyl School District and non-residents may join for a small yearly fee. For information, call Lisa at 610-863-3029 or visit www.bmcl.org. Find us on Facebook @www.facebook.com/bmclpenargyl.

Book Nook Sale
The Blue Mountain Community Library will hold a Semi-Annual Book Nook Sale on Thursday July 25, from 10 am-12 pm and 6 -8 pm., Friday July 26 and Saturday July 27 from 10 am to 12 pm. All items in the Book Nook, located on the 2nd floor of the library, and selected items on the first floor, will be reduced for those three days. Items include gently used Children and Adult Books, both hard and soft cover, Puzzles, DVDs and CDs. Please support the library by purchasing books for yourself or your favorite reader. Book Nook gift certificates are also available. The Blue Mountain Community Library is located at 216 S. Robinson Ave. in Pen Argyl, PA. Hours are M-Sa, 10:00 am to Noon and M-Th, 6:00 to 8:00 pm. Call Lisa at 610-863-3029 for information or visit www.bmcl.org. Find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/bmclpenargyl.

New Announcements......

Blue Mt. Library Honors David King

David King of Pen Argyl was recently honored with a luncheon at Detzi's Tavern by the Board of the Blue Mt. Community Library, where he was presented with a Plaque for his commitment to the library. King was a wonderful asset to the library, volunteering for 16 years in the Book Nook. All of the Board Members and Volunteers enjoyed working with him and wish him well.

Alex Golden Recipient of
“Pete” Cann Academic Scholarship

L-R Rocco Del Vecchio, Alex Golden, Tracey Golden, Richard Hotchkiss

(Bangor, PA – The Board of Directors of Merchants Bank is pleased to announce that Alex Golden was named this year’s recipient of the Ronald H. “Pete” Cann Academic Scholarship. Alex is the son of Tracey Golden, an Assistant Branch Manager in the Bethlehem branch.
Richard M. Hotchkiss, Chairman of the Board, congratulated Alex and wished him continued success. Both Hotchkiss and Rocco Del Vecchio, CEO/President, assured Alex that the Bank has confidence in him for a bright, prosperous future.
Alex currently attends Millersville University, majoring in Biology and considering adding Chemistry to his educational curriculum. He loves animals and is working part-time at a local pet store.
“We are proud to continue this tradition of helping students pursue their educational goals," Hotchkiss said. "The award is given to students who demonstrate academic success and support our communities. I am proud we are able to recognize their achievements and support their pursuit of education.”
Del Vecchio added, “Each year, I’m amazed by the exemplary students and their achievements in their young lives.”
Candidates must exemplify the attributes of Cann, who was well known for his honesty, integrity, and dedication to community service. The Directors of Merchants established the Scholarship in 2003 to honor past President and Director Emeritus, Ronald H. “Pete” Cann, who retired that year after fifty years of service with the Bank.
“Ronald started his banking career in the teller position and worked his way to President and CEO. He was a great friend and leader in our community,” said Hotchkiss.

Regular Slate Belt Events This Week.......

Wednesday July 24
Bingo - Bushkill Fire Co. Doors 5pm. Bingo 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
Gym Nite - 6-8pm, Faith Christian School, Roseto. 610-588-6929
Slate Belt Band - Practice. Roseto American Legion, 143 Garibaldi Ave., Roseto 7-9.
Story Time - Preschool children. Blue Mt. Community Library, Pen Argyl, 10:30am
Bangor Yard Waste - Dump in container at Bangor Park, 8-2
Washington Township Supervisors Meet - Municipal Building, 3:30pm.
Bangor Zoning Board - Bee Hive, 7:00pm
Slate Belt YMCA - Open 5:00am - 9:00pm

Thursday July 25
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
Roseto Zoning Board - Borough Hall TBA
Slate Belt Rotary - Scorecard, Wind Gap, 6-7pm
Plainfield Township Supervisors - Meets 7:00pm Municipal Building
Slate Belt YMCA - Open 5:00am - 9:00pm
Bangor Borough Authority - Bangor Authority Bldg, 7:00pm

Full Calendar

Public Service Announcements

Wind Gap Summer Concerts
6-8pm Wind Gap Park Rain/shine
July 28......Desire
Aug. 11.....Tower Suite
Aug. 25.....The Headliners

Summer Sounds Concerts
Weona Park 6-8 PM Rain/Shine
Aug. 4........Large Flowerheads
Aug. 18......Nazareth Municipal Band

Blue Valley Farm Show Registration

Blue Valley Farm Show Pre-Registration Night #1, Tuesday July 30, 7 PM at the Farm Show, American-Bangor Road, Bangor, PA
Blue Valley Farm Show Pre-Registration Night #2, Wednesday August 7, 7 PM at the Farm Show, American-Bangor Road, Bangor, PA
Cost is $2 for an Exhibitors number. You can enter as many items as you like. Questions...feel free to message their Facebook page.
Full Schedule

Ride the Bangor Park Train
Come and ride the Bangor Park train at (90 Eisenhart Blvd) - and bring the kids, too! The train typically runs Saturdays and Sundays from 1:00-5:00 through the end of August, weather permitting. The best part? Rides are free! They do accept donations in to maintain this community service.

Slater Family Network Open Thursdays
Slater Family Network is open every Thursday in the summer from 9am-2pm to serve the residents of the Bangor School District. Other days available by appointment. Food, clothing, Mental Health Counseling, School Supplies, and Back Pack Buddy Food Program, all free and available. Please call for details and appointment at 610-599-7019.

DivorceCare and GriefShare
"DivorceCare and GriefShare are ongoing 13-week support groups for those going through separation or divorce, and for those dealing with the loss of a loved one. They meet Sundays from 4:30-6:30 PM. Participation may begin any time. Mount Eaton Church, 7277 Mount Eaton Road, Saylorsburg, PA 18353.(570) 992-7050.

Donations for St. John's Cemetery
Donations for St. John's Cemetery in Bangor are being accepted for maintenance. You can mail them to St. John's Cemetery c/o Carol Hummel, 136 Messinger Street, Bangor, Pa 18013.

Summer Feeding at FUMC
The Slate Belt Y will be offering a Summer feeding at The First United Methodist Church, 55 N. 3rd St, Bangor, Monday-Friday. Please help us spread the word to make sure as many children as possible have access to free, healthy meals while school is out.

Summer Reading at Bangor Library
Bangor Public Library Summer Reading program "A Universe of Stories" will start June 20th and run until August 22nd. Meeting days are Thursdays: Grades K-3 from 9:30-10:30 am and Grades 4-6 from 11:00am - 12:00pm. Registration is required. Call the library for more information or stop in.

Bangor Swimming Pool Info
Pool hours: Monday – Friday: 12PM-7PM Saturday and Sunday: 11AM-7PM. The Season Pass Application is in the ticket link and passes will be available at the Borough Office. Season Pass Rates: Family: $170 Family Twilight: (after 5 p.m.) $140 Individual: $95 Senior: $70. Daily Pass fees: Adult: $5 Child:(13 and under) $4 Senior: $3 Twilight: (after 5 p.m.) $3 (for everyone) Day Care Facility rate: $3/child/day (max 3 hours) More info: contact the Borough Office: 610-588-2216.

Weona Park Info
CAROUSEL AND MINIATURE GOLF Wednesday-Friday evenings 3 P.M.-9 P.M; Saturday and Sundays 12 Noon – 9 P.M., weather permitting. Carousel Rides are $1. A round of golf is $5 per person except for our Summer Sizzle Sale from Wed. – Fri. when a round is only $3!!!!!! Please note the first 9 holes of Weona Park Golf is handicap accessible.

What's Available at Jacobsburg?
You can borrow fishing rods and tackle or Discover Adventure Backpacks Monday - Friday, 8:00am to 2:30pm at the Jacobsburg Visitor Center, 400 Belfast Road, Nazareth. To borrow equipment, you must provide a driver’s license or other form of state issued identification. Persons age 16 and older must possess a current fishing license to fish. Adults can help children under 16 fish without a license. Bait is not provided.
The Backpacks are best for young children. For more information call 610-746-2801 or email jacobsburgsp@pa.gov.
You can 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. With at least three days notice, interpreters for people who are deaf or hard of hearing are available for educational programs.

Property Tax/Rent Rebate program
Older adults and Pennsylvanians with disabilities have until December 31 to apply for the state’s Property Tax/Rent Rebate program. The original deadline was June 30.
The program benefits people age 65 or older, widows and widowers age 50 or older, and the disabled 18 or older. The income limit is $35,000 a year for homeowners and $15,000 for renters, and half of Social Security income excluded. The maximum standard rebate is $650. Supplemental rebates for certain qualifying homeowners boosts rebates to $975.
After June 30, rebates will be distributed as claims are received and processed. Applications typically take 6-8 weeks to process.
Eligibility information and forms are available www.rephahn.com, or by contacting her office at 610-746-2100. Eligibility information and forms are also available at www.repemrick.com or by contacting his Slate Belt office at 610-588-8011 or Nazareth office at 610-746-5090. Assistance in filling out the applications is available free of charge.

Roseto Summer Recreation Program
Roseto Borough is happy to announce our 2019 summer recreation program. The dates will be the weeks of July 15 and July 22. We start at 9:00am and end at Noon each day, Monday - Friday. There is no cost for Roseto residents and a $30.00 per child for nonresidents. Children that have completed kindergarten up to 6th grade are invited to attend. We will have a registration time on Saturday July 13, 9:00-12:00 at the Roseto ballpark pavilion.

Slate Belt AARP Trip
Slate Belt AARP Chapter 4135 will be taking a trip to Boston, Salem, and Cape Ann, Sept. 12-16. This is open to the public. Anyone interested please call Deanna at 610-588-4623 for more info.

"Weona 100" Requests
Pen Argyl Borough requests volunteers, personal stories from Community for “Weona 100.” A joint committee of borough officials and residents are planning a weekend of “Weona 100” festivities and activities on June 19-20, 2020. For more information about the Weona Park 100th Anniversary plans, contact Roberta Cowley at 484-695-2994 or email Weona100@gmail.com.

Heritage Center Monthly Schedule
July 11, 7pm “Geology & History of Geologic Resources in the Slate Belt” by Edward Henning; August 8, 7:00 PM: TBA; September 12, 7 PM: “Anniversary of Normandy” by Russ Stout; October 10, 7 PM” “Annual Haunted Heritage Show.”
Sundays: November 10, 2 PM: “Bangor-Pen Argyl 100th Game” by Walter Cole; December 8, 2 PM: “The Great Slate Belt Trivia Contest” hosted by Emcee Marc Blau; January 12, 2020, 2 PM: “History of the Mummers” by Melissa Hough.

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)

Minsi Fishing Rules
Amended Temporarily

According to the following excerpt from thr PA Fish and Boat Commission Press Release and courtesy of Upper Mount Bethel Twp:
"In Northampton County, the Board approved the publication of a notice of proposed rule-making to amend fishing regulations for Minsi Lake, requiring catch and release/no harvest for all species except trout, and applying Commonwealth Inland Waters regulations for trout. This reservoir was completely de-watered in June 2017 to complete dam and spillway repairs and modifications per Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PA DEP) dam safety standards.
The application of this special regulation is intended to protect fish populations during the restocking process beginning in spring 2020 or as soon as refilling conditions allow with fingerling plants of select fish species to establish a high quality warm-water and cool-water fishery.
Once the warm-water fishery has been reestablished, the lake will be recommended for removal from the miscellaneous special regulation and inclusion in one of the Commission's existing warm-water regulation programs. If approved on final rule-making at a future meeting, the amendment will go into effect upon publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin. With the addition of the new miscellaneous special regulations, the Board voted to remove Minsi Lake from Big Bass Program effective on January 1, 2020."

Hahn, Emrick Meet Student Ambassadors

Rep. Marcia Hahn and Rep. Joe Emrick met Alexandria Carson, an incoming junior at Bangor High School, and Zach Morro, who attends Pen Argyl High School. These bright students met to share their experiences from the Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Seminar held at Albright College in Reading. Students from across the state gather to interact with community leaders and discuss real-world issues while participating in hands-on activities pertaining to leadership and community service.

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Emrick's Bill Protects Taxpayers

HARRISBURG – After receiving unanimous support from the General Assembly, two bills drafted by state Rep. Joe Emrick (R-Nazareth) to save taxpayers and local municipalities money were signed into law by Gov. Tom Wolf.
Before the passage of Emrick’s bills, municipalities were required to pay for separate advertisements each year to advertise their budget and their tax rate, despite – in many cases – the tax rate not changing from the previous year. Emrick’s legislation eliminates the need for municipalities to advertise their tax rate unless it increases from the previous year, saving the taxpayers the expense of advertising a tax rate that hasn’t changed.
“Because it can cost as much as $1,000 each time to advertise tax rates in the newspaper, eliminating the need to advertise tax rates that haven’t increased translates into savings for taxpayers. It also offers another incentive for municipalities to avoid raising taxes,” Emrick said.
Act 50 of 2019 amends the First Class Township Code, and Act 51 of 2019 amends the Borough and Third Class City codes. Both laws enable the property tax millage rate to be assessed by resolution, rather than ordinance, as long as the local municipality keeps the current tax rate the same or reduces taxes.
“These laws were created with the principle of saving taxpayer money in mind, and I am proud that they received unanimous support from both chambers of the General Assembly. Having the full support of my colleagues proves how beneficial the legislation is for all Pennsylvanians,” Emrick added.

This fire in the 900 block of Walnut Street in Bangor Borough just after 8:00pm Monday night was possibly caused by a reported explosion. Bangor Fire Companies and Columbia Fire Co. from Roseto responded to the scene. PHOTO GALLERY Sbtt Photo Larry Cory

Business & Art, the Best of Both Worlds

by Jordyn Taylor
Fix Mobile in Pen Argyl, isn’t only a home for iPhone repairs and accessories, but also where Chance Tedesco, a 2006 Bangor Graduate and owner and founder of the store, creates and sells his art.
    He has been interested in art since a young age and mostly enjoys creating wildlife images.
     “I was always really into wildlife art, that’s what kind (of) started me out as a kid,” he said. “Wildlife, anything to do with animals, the more exotic, the more I was interested in it… What I love about the wildlife production is the emotion that you can get and the idea of the emotion in the eyes of the subject you are painting.”
   Tedesco’s pieces showcase scenes from different elements, from tigers and wolves in the wild, to knights fighting monsters, to dinosaurs roaming the streets of the Slate Belt.
   “My imagination always ran wild as a child, I wanted to put all the things I saw in my mind down on paper so that’s what got me started into painting and drawing,” he said. “I started with drawing with pencils and then that evolved into colored pencils and crayons, then I slowly transitioned into painting, and then time went by and I started getting into charcoal…”
    Although he lost touch with painting for some years, now he paints any chance he can get. When he’s not repairing a phone and has finished work for the day, Tedesco will pick up a paint brush in his studio located in the back room of Fix Mobile. As soon as they enter the store, customers are greeted with his art work on every wall which emphasizes the friendly atmosphere.
   Tedesco loves going into work and said that there’s not a day that he worries about going. He advises aspiring creators that “accounting for each minute that you have in the day and making sure that you are taking advantage of that” (is important.)
   “Mark Zuckerberg has the same 24 that anybody else has in a given day so you can really accomplish almost anything in life that you want, “Tedesco added. “it’s just a matter of having a game plan, knowing what you want, and going for it.”
Tedesco paints primarily with acrylic paint and uses other mediums like charcoal pencils and pen and ink. He also takes commissions and says he loves doing them because “it’s all about getting outside of your comfort zone.”
Tedesco sells his original artwork on his website: www.tedescofineart.com and also has pieces in Adam’s Art Gallery in the Stroud Mall. If you’re interested in any of Tedesco’s art, or want to talk about art while getting your phone repaired, visit
  Chance at  Fix Mobile, located at 1414 Blue Valley Dr, Pen Argyl,  Monday through Saturday from 10:00am-7:00pm, contact him at 484-546-6122, or email at chance.tedesco@gmail.com.
Also, follow his Facebook page ‘Chance Tedesco’ and view his website for more information about the art!
PHOTO GALLERY

BAHS to Perform “Carrie” in 2020

by Jordyn Taylor
BHS music teacher Joseph Di Minico recently announced that Bangor Area High School’s next Musical will be “Carrie: The Musical.” The musical originated with a book by Lawrence D. Cohen and is adapted from Stephen King's novel Carrie. The show features lyrics by Dean Pitchford and music by Michael Gore.
Carrie’s plot focuses on a teenage girl with telekinetic powers whose life is ruled by her oppressive, overly protective, and religious mother. When she is humiliated by her class at the high school prom, she unleashes chaos on everyone.
The show was originally produced by Friedrich Kurz and the Royal Shakespeare Company and began its first four-week run on February 13, 1988. Carrie will continue on the BAHS stage in 2020 when the students perform the 2012 revival version. The show will run from April 3rd through April 5th. Will you be there? Or will you be too scared to meet Carrie?

Athens VBS at Mt. Bethel Church

Athens Vacation Bible School will be held August 5-9 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Mount Bethel Church. Registration is on the church website http://www.mountbethelchurch.org. Mount Bethel Church 1270 Belvidere Corner Road, Mt. Bethel

Vietnam Veteran, Pete Reisen (L) was recently honored by the People of Upper Mount Bethel Township for his military service, dedication and loyalty of country, and 50 years as a volunteer firefighter of the Mount Bethel Fire Department. Sbtt Photo Lisa Newberry Belt and Beyond

No Nonsense Neutering

The Borough of Pen Argyl has approved Trap Neuter Return!!!!!
The Council recognizes that the Borough needs to have a long term free roaming cat management plan.

FREE vouchers are now available at the Borough Office. 5 per person. If you need more, you must use the first 5 before requesting additional vouchers.
NNN brochures are available.
Traps may be available at the Borough office by request.
If you are elderly or disabled, trapping assistance is available.
Email admin@nnnlv.org if you have questions or need assistance.
COLONY Caretakers/feeders: Please help your cats be good neighbors. How? FIX your cats!
Do NOT feed at night. Cat food attracts raccoons, skunks and other wildlife to the neighbors.
Provide mulched areas in YOUR backyard for them to use as a litter box, A plastic baby pool filled with mulch or sand works very well.
Neighbors: If cats are living under your deck or shed, close it up with pavers or lattice.
Use a water hose to get them off your patio furniture.
Listen to your neighbors. They don't dislike the cats. They don't like the noise (which neutering will fix) and the odor from their pee and poop. HELP them!
Please share the news for people who do not use Facebook

If everyone is involved and it will make a difference!

The Slate Belt Young at Heart Club recently sponsored a trip to the state Capitol in Harrisburg. On arrival, the group met with Rep. Marcia Hahn and Sen. Mario Scavello, who accompanied the group on an amazing tour of many sites of the Capitol. Rep. Emrick also was able to join them. Thanks to Mario and Marcia for an amazing and informative tour.

Portland Parade Video Highlights.........

VBS at Grace UMC, Pen Argyl

Children, teens and adults are all invited to join us July 29-August 2 from 6-8pm for a fun week of Vacation Bible School. There is no charge for this program and all are invited as we go Into The Wild for encounters with Jesus. Children, ages 3 and up, will learn about Jesus through stories, songs, crafts and games. Teens will focus on Jesus in their own teen program and adults of all ages are invited to join our adult Bible Study.
On Friday evening, there will be a closing program followed by an ice cream social.
For more information or to register, please call the church at 610-863-4811 or email graceumc@worshipatgrace.org.

BHS Class of 1954 65th Reunion

The Bangor High School Class of 1954 recently held their 65th class reunion at The Lakeside Restaurant in Saylorsburg. Forty-two people attended 30 of whom were classmates. The class recognized 68 class members who have died since graduation.
Russell Roper was elected president, Sherwood “Sherk” Jones, Vice-president; Kay Datesman Newton, Secretary and Shirley Fisher Kressler, Treasurer. Since most of the class members are in their 80’s, the class agreed to meet annually for a luncheon.

BAHS Grad Attends Publishing Program

Jordyn Taylor (left)

Jordyn Taylor, a Bangor Area High School graduate of 2017 and intern for the Slate Belt Town Topics, attended Susquehanna University’s second annual Publishing and Editing Summer Institute (SI) last week. She was a counselor for the camp which is held for high school students. The institute is one of many that gives students an insight into college life, let’s students explore the campus, and participate in activities that center around their passions.
These summer institutes are ranked in the top 20 in the nation by Value Colleges and 21st by College Consensus. The Publishing and Editing Summer Institute is among programs such as The Writer’s Workshop, Wind Ensemble Institute, and Wall Street Susquehanna which run during different weeks of the summer.
Susquehanna University offers the only summer program in the country for high school students interested in book publishing and allows students to become the roles involved in Publishing. From the Publisher and Managing Director, to the Art Designer, Marketing and Publicity Director, and Web Director/Social Media Manager, students took their roles seriously and created a book pitch and marketing campaign for a Young Adult Novel. They then pitched their book through a digital presentation to consumers (their parents and the SI staff) in the University Art Gallery.
Throughout the week, students listened to lectures by keynote speakers and worked with their team to implement the skills they learned about. There were also many long work sessions, early mornings and late nights, cafeteria dinners, bookstore visits, book discussions, and bonding moments.
The counselors, including Taylor, did not participate in the actual project, but attended the lectures and offered advice to the students based on their own experiences and the material they learned in the SI. According to counselor Rachel Pietrewicz, “working with the students in the SI was one of the most rewarding experiences in college.”
Taylor was also happy to share advice and believes the students did a great job with their presentations and throughout the week.
If you would like any information on the Summer Institutes or would like to attend one next year, please feel free to contact Taylor or view the Susquehanna University Website.

This baby wren is fed in a small bird house near the Slate Belt Town Topics. Sbtt Photo Larry Cory

“Slate Belt Rising Scholarship Recipients”

As part of their commitment to engaging and helping local youth, Slate Belt Rising created a scholarship program as part of their 2018-2019 projects.
These scholarships are to help graduating seniors living in the Bangor Area and Pen Argyl Area School Districts defray the cost of furthering their education at a four-year college or university, community college, or trade school. Additionally, for seniors that may be going directly into the workforce for a skilled-trade, scholarship funds can be used to purchase tools.
This year’s Slate Belt Rising Scholarship recipients are Erin Firestone; a graduate of Pen Argyl Area High School, who will be furthering her education at Arizona State University studying Sports Business. Rachel Kromer; a graduate of Bangor Area High School who will be furthering her education at Delaware Valley University studying Animal Science. Angelica Liberto; a graduate of Pen Argyl Area High School, whoi will be furthering her education at Northampton Community College studying Early Childhood Education.
Slate Belt Rising would like to congratulate their scholarship recipients and wish all recent graduates success in their future endeavors!

Local Poet Visits Bangor Public Library

By: Jordyn Taylor
Local Poet, Christopher Moore, visited the Bangor Public Library on Saturday to read from his upcoming manuscript. Moore is a Bangor Area High School Graduate who attends East Stroudsburg University where he is a major in History. He has been a poet since 2012 and was first published in 2015. Moore's first full-length poetry book was published in 2018 and his second is set to be released this summer.
During the reading, Moore read eight poems from his upcoming book including “Mediterranean Beauty,” “That Scent,” and “Garden State Hippie.” His poems were full of imagery and details that left the audience engaged with each poem. Moore’s poems ranged in topic from history, to family and friends and each had a personal inspiration. “I have moments where I might be driving, or I might be in the middle of a class, or I might be walking around, and all of a sudden it just comes to me,” Moore said about his inspiration. “It varies. It depends on the moment.”
Moore was not only personal with his poems, but with the audience as well. He spoke with them of his experiences, including his childhood where he explained how he disliked reading poetry, and connected with them on their own experiences. He also opened the conversation up to questions at the end of the reading. For more information on Christopher Moore, visit his website at www.christophermoorepoet.com or follow his Facebook Page: Christopher Moore Poetry.

Life on a World War II Battlefield

This is one of many scenes at the World War II historical presentation held at Jacobsburg Saturday and available today. PHOTO GALLERY Sbtt Photo Jordyn Taylor

by Jordyn Taylor
The Jacobsburg Historical Site kicked off its third annual World War Two Historical Weekend yesterday. At the Boulton Historic Site in Jacobsburg, visitors were transported back to WWII where they watched a weapons demonstration, a reenactment of the battle, and browsed various vendors.
Visitors toured Allied and German Camps staffed by re-enactors, saw period military and non-military displays, met and talked to veterans, shopped, and learned about multiple non-profit veterans organizations. They also watched a weapons demonstration where members of American and German re-enactment groups demonstrated how their weapons worked. During the presentations, the actors compared weapons, explained how to hold and load them, and fired blanks that could be heard across the field, making some onlookers jump, and others grin in excitement.
Some of the re-enactors had been there before, but others were there for the first time. Brett Dagnall, a first time participant who collects WWII gun replicas, said that although it was only his first time at the event, he had been studying WWII since he was a teenager. Dagnall also talked about his relatives that served, his interest in the event, and why he enjoys re-enacting.
“Almost all of the veterans that served in WWII have passed away,” he said. “Having grown up with them I feel like I have an obligation to tell the stories… These are the thing[s] you don’t get in the books or movies.”
Dagnall has also painted pictures of the time and creates prints of the paintings which he displayed next to his replicas.
During the weekend visitors heard personal stories and facts from the WWII time period.
The event continues today. If you want to know about foxholes, Unit Medics, or the Boulton Historic Site, visit the area and get involved! The event will be held from 9:00am-5:00pm. Visitors are also welcome to explore The Pennsylvania Longrifle Museum and the J. Joseph Henry House and Summer Kitchen, which will be open for tours from 12:00–4:00pm.

Library “Sprucing Up” This Summer

Kathleen Lynch

by Jordyn Taylor
The Bangor Public Library (BPL) has had some big changes since it was first established in 1921, and even more changes and adaptations are being made this summer. The library, which was originally Merchants Bank, was founded by the Bangor Women’s Club and is now owned by the Bangor Borough, which works with the library staff to maintain the building.
The BPL will be going through renovations this summer, including removing old curtains to be replaced with new ones, getting new film put on the windows to keep the books protected and keep the weather under control such as keeping cool air inside in the winter and heat in the winter, and cleaning the carpets, shelves, and the interior of the building through a cleaning service. This, according to the Director of the Library, Kathleen Lynch, “will spruce up the library and give it a nice clean shine and shimmer.”
The renovations are provided through the Friends of the Library, a group dedicated to promoting the library in the community and raising money to support it. They also organize fundraisers for the BPL such as book sales, a duck race, and wine events. Another renovation that was recently completed was the clock replacement, which is located directly outside the library in the parking lot. Lynch would like to thank all who contributed to this replacement. The clock is now upgraded and illuminates at night so it can still be seen if you happen to be reading after the sun sets.
Lynch was a teacher for 15 years in New Jersey and a substitute teacher in Bangor for 3 years. She has also been a patron of library for 15 years so she knows the ins and outs of both ends.
    “What’s really great is that I've seen what the patrons have seen,” she said. “And I know how the backend of the library is seen.” She hopes to promote the library further and enhance it for the community.
   “I know the kids and a lot of the parents and the teachers and I really have a vision for the library and see where we can be. As libraries across the nation have evolved, we follow with education and promoting that we are a place of community.”
   In addition to promoting the field trip where 4th grade students visit their community (Bangor’s Historical Center, Merchant’s Bank, and the Library) to learn about their community and how it ties together, Lynch has spoken with UMBT member John Birmingham about how UMBT and the BPL can promote history, education, and literacy with adults and kids. She also hopes to speak with other boroughs and meet with school principals to link schools and communities together further. The boroughs the BPL currently serves are: UMBT, East Bangor, Bangor, Washington Township, Roseto, and Portland.

PHOTO GALLERY
LIST OF SERVICES & EVENTS

The Bangor Class of 1959 presented scholarships to four Bangor Class of 2019 graduates during a luncheon held Wednesday at Napoli Pizza in Bangor. The recipients (seated) (l-r) Salvatore Schippers, Gulner Avci, Giavanna Murgia, and Taryn Geiger. Class of 59: (Middle) Joyce Doll, Barbara Albani, Sonya Cole, Bernice Ponnett, and Louis Ponnett. (Back) Pat Altorfor, Dale Pysher, Janice Cory, Ann Yale, Marlene Smith and Sherwood LaBar. Sbtt Photo Larry Cory

BAHS Students Shine on Broadway Night

Bangor students perform for Broadway night at the Craig Paine Theater during the school's final stage night of the year. For seniors it was the culmination of their high school stage careers. PHOTO GALLERY Sbtt Photos Jordyn Taylor

by Jordyn Taylor
The audience was enthralled with BAHS student performances during Broadway Night Thursday. The show featured over thirty songs from various musicals, from “Dear Evan Hansen” to “Once on This Island.”
The numbers showcased old, as well as new, costumes and added personal spins on well-known songs. The crowd not only gave a standing ovation to the performers at the end of the night, but gave thunderous applause, laughter, and maybe even some tears, throughout the night as well.
Broadway Night was scheduled for May 29th, but was postponed due to weather conditions. However, this didn’t get the students down. Instead, they used the time to practice and make the show the best they could.
This was recognized by Joseph Di Minico, Director of the BAHS Chamber Choir, among other ensembles.
“Broadway Night was a success,” he said. “It is great to share the talents of our students with the community. Broadway Night is meant to demonstrate the depth of talent we have at Bangor Area High School. In any given musical, you can only feature a handful of students. We have so much more talent than just those students.”
Senior Gianna Graziano agreed. “I think Broadway Night went better than we expected it to,” she said. “...Since [the event] was postponed, it gave us more time to rehearse our pieces and this gave us more confidence when doing our solos. We felt well prepared, and for me personally, I wouldn’t have asked my last performance on this stage to go any other way.”
Gianna Graziano put her own spin on her number when she performed “Show Off” from The Drowsy Chaperone  with junior, Logan Holva. She used her Freddy Award as a prop and was also dressed in a costume featured in “42nd Street,” which was Bangor’s musical last year.
“I think the Freddy Award, and the 42nd street dress, were both a reflection of the amazing opportunities I’ve gotten and all the great accomplishments throughout my high school career amongst doing the musicals,” she said. “Using the Freddy actually was my director, Mr. Di Minico’s idea. At first I thought he was joking, but I thought about it, and found that his idea was brilliant.”
Graziano never got to wear the yellow dress in the show, but instead wore a dazzling blue ensemble while the rest of the cast wore yellow in the finale. “I figured getting to wear [this dress] would be the nod to all the beautiful costumes used in 42nd Street,” Graziano said. “This song was my last farewell on this stage saying “I don’t wanna show off no more,” but I very well do my best to do just that...“Show Off.”
Broadway Night was the last performance for seniors, who up until then had performed multiple times on the Bangor Area High School stage.
“It’s bittersweet,” said senior, Aryana Smith.” The music department has done so much for me and given me a home away from home. I’m grateful for every opportunity I’ve had and they’ve prepared me to keep going and follow my passions.” Smith lead the cast in the finale during the number “Mama Will Provide” from "Once on This Island".
“I knew I had to leave it all on stage for my last performance. The audience reaction just kept me going! I wanted to please them,” she said.
Graziano echoed Smith, saying, “Broadway night was a bittersweet emotional night, and I think it’s safe to say that I accomplished my goal, of making my mark on that stage... and not just scuff marks from tapping haha.”
  Di Minico talked about how he is sad to see the seniors leave by saying, “I am sad to see the seniors go, but I know they will always be part of the BAHS Choir Family. I will see them all and keep in contact so it is not goodbye.” He also thanks the community and their constant support of the music program at BAHS.

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July 24
Weekly Weeders!
Wednesday, July 24 from 9:00am to 10:00am, Jacobsburg Park is looking for volunteers to pull weeds in our native plant garden on Wednesday mornings while learning about native plants from one of our educators. We provide gloves, tools, and kneeling mats. Meet at the Visitor Center at 400 Belfast Road, Nazareth.

Summer Fun with Books
This Blue Mountain Community Library program is for preschoolers through students entering third grade. Together, we will read books and participate in an activity. All programs will begin at 10:30 AM. Due to limited space, reserve your spot today! Sign-up sheets are at the front desk starting June 1.

Blue Mt. Library Fundraiser   The Blue Mountain Community Library will hold a Fundraiser at The Scorecard, 130 N. Broadway, Wind Gap, Wednesday, July 24 from 4pm to closing. The Scorecard will donate a portion of all food sales that day to the Library in Pen Argyl. The Fundraiser will include Dine-In or Take-Out orders. Support the library by enjoying good food! The money will be used to purchase new books, meet the many expenses associated with maintaining the library, and for programs offered to the public.
Membership is free to all residents in the Pen Argyl School District and non-residents may join for a small yearly fee. For information, call Lisa at 610-863-3029 or visit www.bmcl.org. Find us on Facebook @www.facebook.com/bmclpenargyl.

July 25 - 27
Book Nook Sale
The Blue Mountain Community Library will hold a Semi-Annual Book Nook Sale on Thursday July 25, from 10 am-12 pm and 6 -8 pm., Friday July 26 and Saturday July 27 from 10 am to 12 pm. All items in the Book Nook, located on the 2nd floor of the library, and selected items on the first floor, will be reduced for those three days. Items include gently used Children and Adult Books, both hard and soft cover, Puzzles, DVDs and CDs. Please support the library by purchasing books for yourself or your favorite reader. Book Nook gift certificates are also available. The Blue Mountain Community Library is located at 216 S. Robinson Ave. in Pen Argyl, PA. Hours are M-Sa, 10:00 am to Noon and M-Th, 6:00 to 8:00 pm. Call Lisa at 610-863-3029 for information or visit www.bmcl.org. Find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/bmclpenargyl.

July 26
Winery Comedy Tour
Winery Comedy Tour is planned for Friday, July 26 from 7 PM – 8:45 PM at M & M Vineyards, 18 Shepherds Hill Dr, Bangor.
Nationally recognized comedians travel the country tasting local wine and making new fans in this new comedy circuit that brings quality comedy to folks for a fraction of what antiquated comedy clubs demand.
  Come out for a night of hilarious comedy and great local wines. This comedy tour takes top comedians who you've seen on TV and sends them out on the road to perform at wineries throughout the country. Find out which local wines pair best with hysterical laughter when The Winery Comedy Tour comes to your town!

Kid's Night Out at Bloom
Join us Friday, July 26th 6 to 8:30 pm for KID’S NIGHT OUT - a PAINT NIGHT for KIDS. Kids can enjoy art themed activities, which include completed project while parents enjoy 2.5 hours any way they want! Leave your kids in trusted care and take advantage of some time to run errands, relax, or have a kid free meal! There are several restaurants within walking distance from the studio. For ages 5 and up from 6:00-8:30. Kids may bring a snack to have while they’re here. The cost is $30, register online now to save your spot!  REGISTER  HERE


July 26 & 27
Yard Sale
The East Bangor United Methodist Community Church will hold an "Indoor Yard Sale" on Fri., July 26, and Sat., July 27, from 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. both days.  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.

July 27
Ackerman Family Reunion
The annual Ackerman Family Reunion will be held, Saturday, July 27 at the Community building, Weona Park, Pen Argyl. All are invited to come, bring a dish to share - 12 noon to 5 p.m., Eating at 4 p.m. Contact Marianne at 301-698-0220 for more information.

DIY Sign Workshop
Saturday, July 27 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM at Bloom Creative Studio. YOU pick the phrase or monogram and we create custom materials for you to use during this 3 hour DIY workshop. There are several sign and size options. We prepare the stencil and guide you through painting. Every purchase benefits our mission to help women survivors of violence and addiction thrive! Please pre-register by Friday, July 26th. REGISTER HERE

July 28
Car, Truck, Motorcycle Show
Come to Reagle Dodge on Sunday, July 28 beginning at 8 AM for a Car, Truck, and Motorcycle Show.

July 29
Grace UMC VBS
Children, teens, and adults are all invited to join Grace UMC in Pen Argyl July 29-August 2 from 6-8pm for a fun week of Vacation Bible School. There is no charge for this program and all are invited as we go Into The Wild for encounters with Jesus. Children ages 3 and up will learn about Jesus through stories, songs, crafts, and games. Teens will focus on Jesus in their own teen program and adults of all ages are invited to join our adult Bible Study.
On Friday evening, there will be a closing program followed by an ice cream social.
For more information or to register, please call the church at 610-863-4811 or email graceumc@worshipatgrace.org.

July 30 - August 6
Clothing Drive
Families First in collaboration with the Pen Argyl Area High School Athletic Department, Pen Argyl Salvation Army, and Grace United Methodist Church, will be hosting a clothing drive to benefit all students and families of the Pen Argyl Area School District. Clothing will be collected from July 30 to August 6. They are only accepting gently used, school appropriate, clothing and sizes from Children’s 5T to Men and Women’s Clothing X-Large.
Clothing can be dropped off. Locations are: Pen Argyl High School Cafeteria, Families First at Wind Gap Middle School, and Plainfield Elementary School.
Volunteers are needed to help with the sorting and organizing of the donated clothing on August 7 at the Pen Argyl Area High School beginning at 8:00 am.
Volunteers are also needed to do shift work during the distribution of clothing on the following dates: Thursday, August 8th from 9:00 am to 11:00 am and 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm, Friday, August 9th from 9:00 am to 11:00 am and 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm and Saturday, August 10th from 9:00 am to 11:00 pm.

August 1
Amateur Radio Club
The Delaware-Lehigh Amateur Radio Club will hold its monthly meeting Thursday, August 1, at 7:30 pm in the Bethlehem Township Community Center, 2900 Farmersville Road, Bethlehem. Program: "Info Age & The Marconi Belmar Wireless Site / KA2JQG, Presenter. Members and others interested always are welcome. Directions: https://tinyurl.com/y852acvn. FMI:  www.DLARC.org , KE3AW@ARRLnet , or 610.432.8286.

August 3
Martin on Main Festival
The 12th Annual Martin on Main festival will take place August 3 from 1:00-7:00pm. The Nazareth Center for the Arts will once again host the second stage. Join them for great music, good food, and fun times!
See more details on the facebook event page.

Ice Cream Social
Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church 703 S. Delaware Dr. (Route 611), Mt. Bethel (Stone Church) will hold an Ice Cream Social on Saturday, August 3 from 4 pm to 8 pm.
Tasty homemade, hand-churned ice cream and baked goods will be accompanied by hot dogs, hamburgers, sausage, bar-b-cue and beverages. There will also be a bake sale and a cake walk.
So, come on down for dinner, dessert and a fun time. Enjoy free live traditional country music provided by Bill Clinton & the Keystone Troubadours. Bring your cowbells and lawn chairs for a good old-fashioned, foot stomping, hand clapping good time!
For information or directions call Lynn at 610-588-7076 or Chrissy at 610-588-0809

August 4
String Art Class
A String Art Class will be held at The Nazareth Center for the Arts on August 4. All artistic levels welcome. Learn something new and bring home a unique piece of artwork. 1:00-4:00pm. Class/materials: $25. Email them to sign up.

August 5 - 9
Mount Bethel Church VBS
Athens Vacation Bible School will be held August 5-9 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Mount Bethel Church. The church is located at 1270 Belvidere Corner Road, Mt. Bethel. Registration is on the church website: http://www.mountbethelchurch.org.

August 6
National Night Out
  Washington Township National Night Out is planned for the recreation fields. More info to come.

August 7
Weekly Weeders!
Wednesday, August 7 from 9:00am to 10:00am, Jacobsburg Park is looking for volunteers to pull weeds in our native plant garden on Wednesday mornings while learning about native plants from one of our educators. We provide gloves, tools, and kneeling mats. Meet at the Visitor Center at 400 Belfast Road, Nazareth.

Summer Fun with Books
This Blue Mountain Community Library program is for preschoolers through students entering third grade. Together, we will read books and participate in an activity.
  August 7 - Therapy dogs! All programs will begin at 10:30 AM. Due to limited space, reserve your spot today! Sign-up sheets are at the front desk starting June 1.

August 10
Heritage Craft Day
Heritage Craft Day will be held Saturday, August 10 from 11 AM – 3 PM at Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm 347 Quiet Valley Rd, Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania.
Explore Quiet Valley on a day when we celebrate traditional and heritage crafts. There will be demonstrations and hands-on activities with craft including spinning and weaving, basket making, egg etching, wheat weaving, pottery, blacksmithing, and more.
Admission is free with purchase of tour tickets for the day.

Bangor Summer Pool Party
Summer Pool Party Hosted by Bangor Borough is scheduled for 1 PM – 4 PM Saturday, August 10, 2019 at Bangor Park Broadway & Eisenhart Blvd, Bangor.
The Bangor Memorial Park Pool will be a splashdown good time with music from a rockin' D.J. Music and tons of fun with games & prizes. Our concession stand will also be open.
The admission fee is $3.00 per person & free for those with a season Pool Pass.
For more information: Call Bangor Borough @ 610-588-2216 or contact Debbie @ 610-751-7692 bangorparkboard@gmail.com
*Rain date August 11.

August 11
Historic Blairstown Day
Historic Blairstown Day hosted by Blairstown Museum will be featured Sunday, August 11 from 11 AM – 5 PM at the Blairstown Museum 26 Main Street, PO Box 109, Blairstown, New Jersey 07825. Dust off your bonnets and bowties ladies and gentlemen and get ready to party like it's 1899!
The 3rd Annual Historic Blairstown Day, sponsored by the Blairstown Museum, is a celebration of Blairstown's heritage. Spend the day enjoying the ambiance of a bygone era with nostalgic music, antiques, craft and food vendors, a classic car show, a birthday celebration for town founder John Insley Blair, and much more.
For more information, vendor signup, car show registration, and sponsor opportunities, visit https://blairstownmuseum.com/events/historic-blairstown-day.

Jackpot Bingo
The Plainfield Twp. Vol. Fire Co. will be hosting a Jackpot Bingo on Sunday, August 11. Doors open at 12pm and games start at 1pm. The event will be held at the Banquet Facility located at 6480 Sullivan Trail, Wind Gap. They will be having Regular bingo games, specials, Pull Tab tickets, 50/50, Tricky Tray, and much more! The concession stand will be open. Stop in and help support your local fire co!

August 14
Farm Show Car Cruise
The Fourth Annual Blue Valley Farm Show Car Cruise, hosted by Blue Valley Farm Show, will be held Wednesday, August 14 from 5 PM – 10 PM at Blue Valley Farm Show 707 American Bangor Road, Bangor. Show off your cars, trucks, motorcycles, and bicycles! No Registration Fee! No need to save your spot! Just come on out and show off your wheels!

Hike for Health
Join us at Jacobsburg Park after work on Wednesday, August 14 from 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm 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.

August 16
Family Night - Bats
On Friday, August 16 from 6:30pm to 8:00pm at Jacobsburg Park you can learn about the challenges that our local bat populations are facing and how you can help them. We will demonstrate what a bat box looks like and provide directions on how you can build your own. We'll also go for a walk along the creek to look for bats. Registration is required.

August 17
Recovery Rocks The Delaware
Recovery Rocks The Delaware, Saturday, August 17 from 8 AM – 8 PM.
A Delaware River Clean Up in the morning and offering hope and help to our addicts and those who love them in the afternoon, followed by a candle lighting ceremony at dusk. Make a difference, gather your family and friends, wear sneakers, clothing that can get wet, and you will need sunscreen, bug spray, and gloves.
  Addiction affects all of us, learn how you can help stop the stigma, silence, and shame of addiction. It truly does take a village!

Watershed Investigation for Scouts
Join other scouts for the Morning Session, August 17 from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm at Jacobsburg for an investigation into the health of the Bushkill Creek Watershed. We will learn about the primary pollutants, the types of land use that cause them, and conservation efforts to prevent them. We'll learn how to test the chemical properties of the creek water to look for pollutants and healthy oxygen levels. We will also measure and calculate the flow rate and learn about the impact this has on erosion and water supply. This program is best for scouts ages 13 and up. Scouts may participate in both the morning and afternoon sessions.  Registration is required. Scouts must register individually, not as a troop.
The Afternoon Session from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm is more appropriate for younger scouts. Older scouts who participate in both can receive service hours for helping younger scouts during the afternoon program. We will learn about the primary pollutants, the types of land use that cause them, and conservation efforts to prevent them. We'll also wade into the creek to search for signs of watershed health through a biological survey that will help us give a grade to the health of the creek. This program is best for scouts ages 8 and up. Registration is required. Scouts must register individually, not as a troop.

August 18
Pies in the Park
Enjoy homemade pie and support the library while listening to sweet “Summer Sounds!” on Sunday, August 18. Concerts begin at 6:00 PM.  You are encouraged to come early.

Pooch Plunge at the Pool
(Tenative) The last day of the pool season is one for our furry friends. Come out with man’s (or women’s) best friend and enjoy one of the last days of summer with a doggie swim day! Admission is $3 per dog. All dogs must be current on shots and you will be required to sign a release.

August 21
Weekly Weeders!
Wednesday, August 21 from 9:00am to 10:00am, Jacobsburg Park is looking for volunteers to pull weeds in our native plant garden on Wednesday mornings while learning about native plants from one of our educators. We provide, gloves, tools, and kneeling mats. Meet at the Visitor Center at 400 Belfast Road, Nazareth.

Summer Fun with Books
This Blue Mountain Community Library program is for preschoolers through students entering third grade. Together, we will read books and participate in an activity.  August 21 - Carnivals and Parks!  All programs will begin at 10:30 AM. Due to limited space, reserve your spot today! Sign-up sheets are at the front desk starting June 1.

August 24-25
Pocono State Craft Festival
Pocono State Craft Festival 2019, sponsored by Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm and Pocono Arts Council, will be held August 24-25 at the Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm in Stroudsburg PA. Quiet Valley is a working farm, no pets and no smoking please!
For more information, info@poconoarts.org, 570-476-4460, http://www.poconocrafts.com/, OR http://poconoarts.org/programs/annual-special-events/pocono-craft/

August 28
Weekly Weeders!
Wednesday, August 28 from 9:00am to 10:00am, Jacobsburg Park is looking for volunteers to pull weeds in our native plant garden on Wednesday mornings while learning about native plants from one of our educators. We provide gloves, tools, and kneeling mats. Meet at the Visitor Center at 400 Belfast Road, Nazareth.

August 31
Radio Zoo Playing
Radio Zoo will play at the Overlook Saturday, August 31 from 5 PM – 9 PM 4285 N Delaware Dr, Mt Bethel,. This is an awesome summertime venue located on Route 611 by Portland Pa. You won't want to miss it! Radio zoo is a high energy and fun band that covers rock, pop, alternative, and even a dash of country hit songs.

Stroudfest 209
StroudFest 2019, hosted by the Sherman Theater, will be held Saturday, August 31 from 11 AM – 6 PM, 524 Main St, Stroudsburg.

Slate Belt Y Sprint
New in 2019, the The Greater Valley YMCA will hold 4 races as part of the GVYMCA Race Series! This Slate Belt Sprint is the second race in the series. The other races are the Firecracker 5k on July 4th, Debbie's Dash on October 12th, and the Pumpkin Pie 5k on Thanksgiving!
As either part of the series or as a stand-alone race, the Slate Belt Branch will hold its Slate Belt Sprint 5k Run/Walk on August 31st!
Kick-off your Labor Day celebrations with us for our 3rd Annual Slate Belt Sprint 5K! This is a family event, as well as an event for competitive runners.
Medals awarded for top male/female runner and walker and top three male/female times by age category.

September 6
Annual Community Night
The second Annual Community Night, hosted by Green and White Youth Association Clock, will be held Friday, September 6 from 5 PM – 8 PM at the Green And White Field C Street, Pen Argyl. Vendors are $10 and games are $.50 cents. Email Chrissie at chrissieh65@gmail.com. There will be a tricky tray at 7pm. Presale tickets will be able in late August.

September 7
Taco Festival
The 5th Annual NJ Taco Festival is set for Saturday, September 7 from 10 AM – 8 PM at Sussex County Fairgrounds, 37 Plains Road, Augusta, New Jersey. The NJ Taco Festival is the Garden State's one and only premier event for all things TACO! There will be live Music, Wrestling, Margarita Stations, and so much more!

September 12
Slate Belt AARP Trip
Slate Belt AARP Chapter 4135 will be taking a trip to Boston, Salem, and Cape Ann, Sept. 12-16. This is open to the public. Anyone interested please call Deanna 610-588-4623 for more info.
The Chapter is having a Picnic on June 10, 1pm, at the Senior Center. This will be open to the public. If interested, please call Deanna at the above # or Paula at 610-392-7737 for more info.
The next meeting is May 13, 1pm at the Senior Center. Entertainment will be by the Senior Hoofers from Jeannie Cardinal’s School of Dance. All seniors are welcome to attend.

September 13
Friday the 13th Exhibit
A Friday the 13th Exhibit is planned for September 13 from 9 AM – 10 PM at Blairstown Museum, 26 Main Street, PO Box 109, Blairstown, New Jersey 07825. Visit the Blairstown Museum to view our exclusive Friday the 13th exhibit, visit iconic movie locations, shop at our Slash and Shop Marketplace, enjoy free movie-themed photo booths, and take advantage of a 13% slashing discount on every Souvenir Shop purchase.

September 14
Mt. Bethel Pig Roast
A Pig Roast Hosted by Mount Bethel Vol. Fire Company is set for Saturday, September 14 at 3 PM – 10 PM at 2341 N Delaware Drive, Mount Bethel.
They will have their very first Pig Roast event! We will have Live Music by 2 or 3 local Bands, Raffles, Games, and a Beer Trailer.
Tickets are $30 per ticket, and we will be selling them prior to the event and at the door. The purchase of the ticket includes food, soda, beer, and entry into raffles listed on the ticket. Additional raffles and tickets will be available for purchase during the event.
Food is being provided by the amazing Hillside Smokehouse!
For tickets contact any of these firefighters: Chris: 570-807-7495, Brendan: 570-856-3144, Dane: 570-424-7223, Brett: 484-894-8732 or Bryce: 484-252-9680.

Stop the Bleed
Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Johnsonville will be hosting a STOP THE BLEED campaign on September 14th at 9 AM. This is a federally funded program with no cost to participants. Chad Oliver from Suburban EMS will be leading the training.
Bystanders are usually first on the scene of an accident until emergency responders arrive. The STOP THE BLEED program is aimed to train bystanders to help in bleeding situations.
  Did you know that a person can bleed to death in five minutes? This program will provide skills that could save someone’s life.
If you want more info on this program go to: STOP THE BLEED. This is open to the general public. Please call Prince of Peace at 610-588-2355 to register.

September 21
Bangor Artisan Market
Enjoy second annual outdoor vintage and DIY inspired Artisan Market September 21 from 10am to 4pm brought to you by the Historic Bangor Business Association and Rustic Retail Market featuring handmade gifts, antiques, re-purposed items, home decor, art, and jewelry.
In addition to the Artisan Market, they'll be featuring something for the entire family including fun children's events, games, and food vendors.
Browse and shop at Bangor's quaint downtown stores, enjoy dining and drinks at one of our downtown restaurants or brewpub, and win some fantastic prizes and gifts in our Tricky Tray and 50/50 raffle.

September 27
Fall Trapping Convention
Pennsylvania Trappers Association District 10 2019 Fall Trapping Convention is planned for September 27th 12-6pm and 28th 8am-6pm at the West End Fairgrounds (570 Fairgrounds Rd. Gilbert, PA). Free Admission, Free Demos, Food on premises, Tailgaters welcome. Contact Bob Counterman at 610-759-9203.

September 28
Celtic Cultural Competitions
The Celtic Cultural Alliance is hosting several competitions celebrating Celtic music and poetry at Celtic Classic Highland Games and Festival this year. The competitions’ goal is to showcase and celebrate the local talent in songwriting, youth Celtic fiddle playing, and creativity in poetry.

The Celtic Songwriting Competition, sponsored by C.F. Martin & Co. and Sellersville Theatre, will be held on Saturday, September 28 at 10:30 a.m. at the Celtic Heritage Hollow Stage during the 32nd Celtic Classic Highland Games and Festival. The amateur songwriter with the highest score will be awarded one Martin Guitar DRSG Jr. along with the opportunity to audition as the opening act for a performance at the Sellersville Theatre. The contest is limited to the first 15 applicants with a correct registration.
The Youth Fiddle Competition will be held on September 28 at the Charlie Brown Ice House, Bethlehem, for students under the age of 18. This unique fiddle contest primarily focuses on Celtic fiddling styles including Irish, Scottish, Cape Breton, Shetland, and Galician. Cash prizes are awarded.
The Celtic Poetry contest is open for writers of all ages. Original works for the poems should reflect the Celtic culture, arts, history, or literature. Personal anecdotes of family memories or traveling experiences are also encouraged.
For information about the competitions and to submit your entry, please visit our website at www.celticfest.org. For specific questions, please contact Marcie Mulligan at mmulligan@celticfest.org.
The Celtic Classic runs from Friday, September 27 through Sunday, September 29 in downtown historic Bethlehem. For more information, directions, volunteering opportunities, and the weekend’s schedule, log on to www.celticfest.org. For up-to-the-minute information and updates, follow Celtic Classic on Twitter (@CelticClassic) and friend them on Facebook (facebook.com/CelticClassic).

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.

September 29
Slate Belt Bash & Road Rally
Slate Belt Rising will be hosting The Slate Belt BASH & ROAD RALLY Scavenger Hunt on Sunday, September 29th at Weona Park. The road rally scavenger hunt will begin at 9 am and end at 12 pm with cash prizes for first place ($1,000.00 - YES! 1k) through third place finishers.
All you Slate Belt navigators and experts be ready to show off your Slate Belt Truth! The Road Rally course will wind through 10 municipalities with challenges to find obscure quirky landmarks and will end with a bonus round of Slate Belt history & facts. So brush up on your Slate Belt and your bank account could rise by $1,000.00.
There will be food vendors, live entertainment, and games from 11 am until 4 pm! Additional information and registration for the scavenger hunt will be available soon. The event is RAIN OR SHINE!

October 12
Masonic Motorama
The Seventh Annual Masonic Motorama, presented By Portland Lodge No.311, will be held Saturday, October 12, from 8 AM – 11 PM at Plainfield Farmers Fair. The event is open to anything with a motor! Come see a car/truck show, a monster truck, truck and tractor pulls, food, games, and vendors. Cost is Adults $9.00, children age 5 to 10 $5.00. Children under the age of 5 are free.

October 26
A Car-Truck -Tractor Show
A Car-Truck -Tractor Show hosted by Lower Mt Bethel Sandt's Eddy Fire Company will be held Saturday, October 26, from 9 AM – 3 PM on the Martins Creek Belvidere Hwy, Bangor.

Bach Choir Concert:Welcome to Westminster Abbey
The Bach Choir of Bethlehem welcomes Canada’s Theatre of Early Music as their Gala artist to present the American premiere of the Coronation of King George II on Saturday, October 26 at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Allentown. The ensemble is led by Danny Taylor, frequent Bach soloist and a much in-demand countertenor. In creating the coronation, Taylor and his musicians deliver orchestral and choral excellence that includes Renaissance to Baroque to present-day compositions.

November 2
Harvest Action
The Blue and White Harvest Auction Saturday November 2 at Plainfield Fire Co. New design, same great fundraiser! All proceeds benefit the students of Immaculate Conception School!
This is an Adult only affair - BYOB - must be 21. Ticket includes: d’oeuvres dinner & dessert. There will be a live and silent auction, wine pull, 50-50, and tricky tray.
Tickets go on sale in August. Look for more information.

November 30
Jingle on Main 2019
Jingle on Main 2019 hosted by Greater Blairstown Business Association is planned for Saturday, November 30 from 10 AM – 4 PM.

January 18
Live Bid Fur Auction
Pennsylvania Trappers Association District 10 Live Bid Fur Auction at Stockertown Rod & Gun Club (205 Le Fevre Rd. Stockertown, PA 18083), January 18th, 2020. Doors open at 8am, auction starts at 9am. PTA membership and furtaker's license required. Contact: Bob Counterman 610-759-9203.

Rivalry Banquet & Game Ticket Sales

Y Breaks Ground for Pool/Gym

Plainfield Scholarship Winners

Blue Mt. Library Honors David King

Alex Golden Recipient of“Pete” Cann Academic Scholarship

Minsi Fishing RulesAmended Temporarily

Hahn, Emrick Meet Student Ambassadors

Emrick's Bill Protects Taxpayers

Business & Art, the Best of Both Worlds

BAHS to Perform “Carrie” in 2020

Athens VBS at Mt. Bethel Church

No Nonsense Neutering

Portland Parade Video Highlights.........

VBS at Grace UMC, Pen Argyl

BHS Class of 1954 65th Reunion

BAHS Grad Attends Publishing Program

“Slate Belt Rising Scholarship Recipients”

Local Poet Visits Bangor Public Library

Life on a World War II Battlefield

Library “Sprucing Up” This Summer

BAHS Students Shine on Broadway Night​

Alex Golden Recipient of
“Pete” Cann Academic Scholarship

Minsi Fishing Rules
Amended Temporarily

BAHS Students Shine on Broadway Night