The Home News August 24

The Home News

Looking Back

Looking Back by

Ed Pany

Physicians and Musicians, Part 1 of 6

Monarch Butterfly Waystation Dedication ceremony held at Canal Street

Park

A few months ago, we wrote a column on the old landmark Haff Hospital in Northampton. The great-grandson of Dr. Charles Haff, Mr. Scott Haff, read our column and contacted Mr. Larry Oberly, of the Northampton Area Historical Society and Atlas Cement Company Memo-

rial Museum. He generously donated a plethora of Dr. Haff’s photographs, speeches, hospital information, the doctor’s musical talents and community activities. Young Charles Haff graduated from Hokendauqua High School.

Continued on page 5

Assante Ristorante Italiano celebrates 20th anniversary

By SAVANNAH BROWN

On Tuesday, August 15, the Assante Ristorante Italiano family celebrated their 20th anniversary milestone with a ribbon cutting ceremony, festivities for all ages, and a sold-out mouth-watering buffet feast that was fit for a king.

For over 20 years, the Assante

family has been serving delicious authentic Italian food to their loyal customers who keep coming back for more. Located on Main Street in Northampton, they are truly a staple of the community. Assante’s customers would

Continued on page 10

By SAVANNAH BROWN

On Tuesday, August 15, Northampton Borough held a dedication ceremony at Northampton’s Canal Street Park for the Monarch Butterfly Waystation, which is located near the park’s gazebo.

Reverend Jerry Mraz, retired pastor of Holy Trinity Slovak Lutheran Church, spearheaded and funded the Monarch Butterfly Waystation project, which he first presented to Northampton Borough Council in October 2022, along with the formation of a beautification committee.

The project was designed by Lori Metz and officially broke ground in May.

The site now includes a display case with milkweed, eggs and caterpillars that people can watch turn into chrysalises and eventually butterflies, along with assorted nectar bearing perennial flowers around the display case for the butterflies after they are released, which Rev. Mraz described as a symbolism of Christian faith and resurrection.

The event was attended by various Northampton Borough Council members, Mayor Anthony Pristash, local Boy and Girl Scouts (whose responsibility it will be to maintain the waystation) along with their parents, troop leaders and members of the community, who were all eager

to see the release of the monarch butterflies.

Before releasing two monarch butterflies, Rev. Mraz provided his inspiration for the project.

“Seven years ago, I lost two important people in my life,” he began.

In 2016, his wife, Elizabeth (Betty) Mraz passed away in February, and just five short months later his eldest granddaughter, Meagan Duarte, who shared the same October birthday as his late wife, also passed away. Meagan passed suddenly from spontane-

ous coronary artery dissection after giving birth to her second son just one month before her tragic passing.

Then, as Rev. Mraz, Meagan’s sister Kayla Karan and Kayla’s

Continued on page 10

Construction of Haff Hospital, photo courtesy of Larry Oberly

Rev. Jerry Mraz

Local racing community mourns the passing Of asphalt racing champion George Wambold

Legendary is defined as wellknown and famous. At Mahoning Valley Speedway the definition of legendary is George

4pm

Wambold.

On Monday, August 14, the news of “The Legend” passing away sent waves of grief throughout the local racing community,

DAYS OF PRAYER

February 25th 10am - 4pm

If you need a caring shoulder to lean on, we will do our very best and leave the rest to God. With God in your corner you will never be alone. Come, let’s begin our prayer journey together.

— There is no problem too big or small for God

— Come and share or mail your burden

— Private & anonymous prayer available

— All are welcome regardless as to your faith

particularly to those of the eastern Pennsylvania asphalt circuit where Wambold carved out his niche as one of the most revered racers to ever come out of the re-

Wambold died from injuries sustained from an accident while working at his home in Nazareth. He was 84.

In a career that spans six decades, winning had become a way of life for Wambold. He owns the all-time wins record at the now defunct Dorney Park Speedway with 37, amassing that tally with at least one win in 20 consecutive seasons dating back to 1966.

Wambold also scored three track championships at the Park, coming in 1973, 1984 and 1986.

When the Dorney Park track ceased operations after the 1986 season, Mahoning Valley swung back into action after sitting dormant since 1977 and Wambold was instrumental in coming to the aid of Ward and Dottie Crozier in resurrecting the paved quarter-mile oval.

It was fitting too, since Wambold had a strong connection to the track, dating back to his teen years of the late 1950s when he would attend events there, at the time a dirt track. Like Dorney Park, Mahoning was just as defining to his career.

When Mahoning took on a blacktop surface in 1970, Wambold quickly became one of the top stars, winning 11 times between 1970 and 1974. In 1971 he would garner his first of two

https://wepray.day

George Wambold in Victory Lane at Mahoning Valley Speedway after a win in September of 1990.

Chapman Quarries United Methodist

Chapman Quarries United Methodist Church

1433 Main Street, Bath, PA 18014

We

Prayer”

Photo by George Bauder

gion of tracks that included Dorney Park Speedway, Mahoning Valley Speedway and Evergreen Raceway.

Northampton County Senior Centers

For more information and additional senior centers in Northampton County, visit www.northamptoncounty.org.

Cherryville- Open Monday-Friday 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., 4131 Lehigh Dr., Cherryville. FMI call 610-767-2977.

Lower Nazareth- Open Monday-Friday 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., 306 Butztown Rd., Bethlehem. FMI call 610-297-3464.

Nazareth- Open Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., 15 S. Wood St., Nazareth. FMI call 610-759-8255.

Northampton- Open Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., 902 Lincoln Ave., Northampton. FMI call 610-262-4977.

Modified track titles.

From 1977 to 1986 the track sat dormant but when it did become active again in 1987, Wambold quickly became a force to be reckoned with. He won four times that year and would win his second track crown in the process.

Over the following years the winning continued and when he finally hung up his helmet after the 1998 season, he scored 27 wins. Between Dorney and Mahoning his total is 67 first place features, fourth on the all-time eastern Pennsylvania Modified winners list, with only Matt Hirschman (86), Brian DeFebo (82) and Eric Beers (77) having more victories in that category. Despite not racing himself in

the past 20 years, the Wambold name remained at the forefront at Mahoning with his sons Brian and Michael, grandkids Tiffany and BJ and Brian’s stepson, Justin Merkel, carrying on the family legacy. All have won races and Brian and Michael are also Mahoning champions.

In 2011 Wambold was inducted into the inaugural class of the Dorney Park Speedway/ Mahoning Valley Speedway Hall of Fame.

Wambold was always a great racer and supporter of all local racing and played a key part

laying the foundation for this region’s asphalt racing we have today.

Funeral arrangements are currently pending at time of press.

County to Hold NARCAN Distribution Event

Submitted by BRITTNEY WAYLEN

On International Overdose Awareness Day, the Northampton County Drug and Alcohol Division will hold a free NARCAN distribution drivethrough event. The event, on Thursday, August 31, from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Northampton County Department of Human Services Building, is part of Northampton County's Fake is Real campaign.

"Counties are on the frontline of the opioid epidemic," says Executive Lamont McClure. "It's important that the County

of Northampton makes resources available to help everyone impacted."

The Fake is Real campaign aims to educate families, spe-

cifically young adults in the 18-35 age group, about the

Walter S. Kichline, III

Walter S. Kichline, III, 80, of Moore Township, peacefully passed away surrounded by loving family on Monday, Aug. 21, 2023, at St. Luke’s Hospice House in Lower Saucon Township. He was the husband of Jane E. (Attrill) Kichline, to whom he was married 58 years. Born in Bath, Walter was a son of the late Walter S. Jr. and Winifred P. (Faust) Kichline. He attended Northampton High School and honorably served in the United States Army during Vietnam. Walter retired from Serfass Construction Co. in Allentown, where he was employed for 35 years as a finish carpenter and foreman. After retiring from Serfass Construction Co., he worked for 12 years at Bubba, Fitzpatrick & Lentz Law Firm in Center Valley as the maintenance supervisor. For many years, Walter coached Moore Township Little League Baseball and was instrumental in the development of the Moore

Township Recreation Center. He enjoyed gardening, fishing, reading, collecting ceramic birds, and watching ME TV. Walter was a member of Bethany Wesleyan Church of Cherryville.

Survivors: In addition to his loving wife, Jane, he is survived by three sons, Michael W. Kichline and wife, Laura, of Walnutport, Stephen R. Kichline and wife, Bettie Jean, of Point Phillips, and Walter S. Kichline, IV and wife, Christine, of Nazareth; a daughter, Teresa P. Kichline of Moore Township; eight grandchildren, Heather, Emily, Michael Jr., Joshua, Nathaniel, Brian, Olivia, and Caleb; five great-grandchildren, Dominic, Melodie, Nolan, Hayden, and Charlotte; two halfbrothers, Glenn Mann and wife, Ruthann, of Moore Township, and Terry Mann and wife, Cindy, of Nazareth; a stepbrother, Richard Mann, Jr. and wife, Kathy, of Las Vegas, NV; two half-sisters, Iona Harhart and husband, Jack, of Northampton, and Ann Kerman and husband, Bill, of Harrisburg; three stepsisters, Shirley Chimich and Arlene Wentz, both of Walnutport, and Nancy Martin and husband, Fred, of Alabama; along with many nieces and nephews. Walter was predeceased by three brothers, Raymond Kichline, an infant, and Robert and Gerald Mann; as well as two sisters, Delores Derhammer and Brenda Deitrich.

Services: Friends and relatives

are invited to attend a viewing on Saturday morning, Aug. 26, 2023, from 10 a.m. to noon in the George G. Bensing Funeral Home, LLC, 2165 Community Dr., Route 946, in the Village of Moorestown – Bath, PA 18014. Burial will be private.

Contributions: Memorial contributions may be offered to Bethany Wesleyan Church, 675 Blue Mountain Dr., Cherryville, PA 18035 and/or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

Mildred H. Silfies

Mildred H. Silfies, 96, formerly of Allen Township and Bath, passed away at Gracedale on Tuesday, Aug. 15, 2023. She was the loving wife of the late Russell E. Silfies, to whom she was married 54 years prior to his passing in 2005. Born in Bushkill Township, Mildred was a daughter of the late Elmer L. and Edith C. (Miller) Muschlitz. A loving wife, mother and grandmother, she enjoyed her life as a homemaker and the simple pleasures of baking, sewing and providing for her family. Mildred was a member of Holy Cross Evangelical Lutheran Church of Moorestown where she was a volunteer and member of the Altar Guild. She was also a Past Noble Grand and member of Lady Hall Rebekah Lodge #202, Bushkill Center. Mildred enjoyed flowers and was an avid collector of anything cardinals.

Survivors: She is survived by her loving children, Diane Cesanek and husband, Bernard, of Allen Township, Patricia Liberto of Easton, and Timothy Silfies and wife, Heather, of Pen Argyl; four grandchildren, Jeanette Cesanek and fiancé, Chuck Narciso, of Rhode Island, Dr. Paul Cesanek and wife, Kelly, of Salisbury Township, Natasha Silfies of Bethlehem, and Hunter Crouse of Pen Argyl; four greatgrandchildren, Zackary, Mitchell, Mason, and Miles; and many nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband, Russell, she was predeceased by four sisters, Phyllis Chambers, Mae Newman, Evelyn Houck and Virginia Bonney.

Services: A Funeral Service was held on Saturday, Aug.19, 2023, at 11 a.m. with a Rebekah Funeral Ceremony at 10:30 a.m. in the George G. Bensing Funeral Home, LLC, 2165 Community Dr., Route 946, in the Village of Moorestown – Bath, PA 18014. Friends and relatives were invited to call on Saturday morning from 10 to 11 a.m. in the funeral home. Interment followed in Fairview Cemetery, Moorestown.

Contributions: In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be offered to Holy Cross Evangelical Lutheran Church, 696 Johnson Rd., Nazareth, PA 18064.

Margaret E. Traugher

Margaret E. Traugher, 93, of Moore Township, passed away on Wednesday, Aug. 16, 2023, at Liza’s House Personal Care Home in Lehigh Township. She was the wife of the late Clarence E. Traugher, Jr., to whom she was married 64 years prior to his passing in 2013. Born in East Allen Township, she was one of 10 children of the late Wallace and Emma F. (Hay) Wambold. Prior to retiring, Margaret was employed in

the garment industry as a sewing machine operator for 13 years and was a member of the International Ladies’ Garment Workers’ Union. In her spare time, she enjoyed ceramics, gardening and loved flowers. Margaret was a former member of Christ Church of Bath United Church of Christ.

Survivors: She is survived by her children, Craig Traugher of Moore Township, Carlotta Horvath and husband, Frank, of Ormond Beach, Florida, Cheryl Valo of Bath, Carolyn Kutz and husband, Derrell, of East Allen Township, and Colyne Stettler and husband, John, of Moore Township; 13 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband, Clarence, she was predeceased by a son, Clarence E. Traugher, III; a granddaughter, Danyell Kutz; six brothers, Paul, Willard, George, Edward, Lloyd and Gerald Wambold; and three sisters, Mary Gradwohl, Ruth Markulics and Anna Heckman.

Services: A Funeral Service was held on Monday, Aug. 21, 2023, at 11 a.m. in the George G. Bensing Funeral Home, LLC, 2165 Community Dr., Route 946, in the Village of Moorestown – Bath, PA 18014. Friends and relatives were invited to call on Sunday evening from 5 to 7 p.m. and Monday morning from 10 to 11 a.m. in the funeral home. Interment followed in Hope Cemetery, Hecktown.

Contributions: Memorial contributions may be offered to Liza’s House Personal Care Home, 1357 Blue Mountain Dr., Danielsville, PA 18038.

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Getting Out!

Events around town

The GETTING OUT section of The Home News is open to events that are FREE for the community to attend and participate in. If you have an event and are not sure if it qualifies for this section, call us at 610-923-0382. We also offer low cost classifieds for those events that do not qualify.

34th Annual Uptown Northampton Street Fair- Saturday, Sept. 9 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. 1700-2100 blocks of Main Street, Northampton.

88th Annual Lookout Fire Company No. 1 Labor Day ParadeMonday, Sept. 4 at 1 p.m. Parade begins at the intersection of E. Pennsylvania Avenue and Westbrook Avenue.

Atlas Cement Co. Memorial Museum- Open for tours second and fourth Sunday through Sept. 24. 1401 Laubach Ave., Northampton. Group tours available, 610-262-2576.

Bath Area Food Bank- Distributes food second Tuesday of each month, starting around 9:30 a.m. on lower level of St. John's Lutheran Church in Bath, 206 E. Main St. Please do not arrive prior to 9:30 a.m. due to safety reasons.

Bath Farmers Market- Every Saturday May-Sept. from 9 a.m. to noon at the clock on W. Main St., Bath.

Bath Museum- Open third Saturday Jan-Nov. and first Saturday in Dec., from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 121 S. Walnut St., Bath. Volunteers needed, call 484-284-0313.

Borough of Bath Business Forum- Thursday, Sept. 7 from 7 to 9 p.m. in the Bath borough building. Open to owners and employees of businesses located within the borough. FMI call 610-837-6525.

Borough of Bath Community-Wide Yard Sales- Saturday, Sept. 9 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Yard sale permit fees waived this day only.

Community Safety Day- Saturday, Sept. 9 from 10 a.m. to noon at Bicentennial Park, East Allen Township. Fire trucks, EMS, hands-on activities, PSP Aviation and MedEvac landings, Bethlehem City PD Mounted Unit, first aid presentations, music, games and ice cream.

Dementia Support Group- Held third Thursday every month from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., 2801 Emrick Blvd., Bethlehem. Designed for families and caregivers of dementia patients.

East Allen Township Open Space and Farmland Preservation Committee- Meets third Thursday of the month at 7 p.m. at 5344 Nor-Bath Blvd., Northampton. New committee members welcome.

Gov. Wolf Hist. Society- Tours of historic buildings, grounds and new museum on third Saturday April-Nov. from 1 to 3 p.m. 6600 Jacksonville Rd., Bath.

Helping Homeless Vets- Weave mats for homeless vets every second and fourth Wed. of the month from 10 a.m. until 9 p.m. Prepping for weaving every first and third Wed. of month 12:30 to 3:30 p.m., Mountain View Wesleyan Church 1001 Deemer Rd., Bath. Call 610837-1190 FMI. Leave message.

Horner's Cemetery 295th Anniversary Tours- Visit the founders of Northampton Co. Daily tours by appt. only. Call Peggy at 610-9844532.

Mayor’s Cool Off The Kids Night- Thursday, August 24 from 5 to 7 p.m. Rain date August 25. Firefighters Park, 300 N. Chestnut St., Bath.

Nazareth Farmers Market- Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. MayOct. in the Square, Nazareth.

Northampton Area Food Bank- Food distribution first three Thursdays from 5 to 7 p.m. and second and third Saturday 9 to 11:30 a.m. 1601 Canal St.

Northampton Borough Crime Watch Meeting- Typically held second Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Northampton Borough Fire Dept.

Northampton Farmers Market- Tuesdays from 3 to 6 p.m. MaySept. in Municipal Park, Northampton.

Siegfried Railroad Station Museum- Open third Sunday through October from 1 to 4 p.m. on West 21st Street (Route 329), Northampton.

Looking Back

Continued from page 1

Encouraged by his parents to attend college, he graduated from Millersville Normal School, today Millersville University. With a keen interest in a career in medicine, Charles enrolled in and graduated from an outstanding institution, the University of Pennsylvania, in Philadelphia.

Dr. Haff started his family practice near the Whitehall Cement plant in Cementon. With his warm disposition and medical training, he prospered. As a result, he needed extra space to treat his patients. He purchased a single home on Washington Avenue, in Northampton, with 10 rooms.

One event that had a profound effect on the United States and the world was the flu epidemic in 1918. I spoke to one of Dr. Haff’s nurses many years ago. She recalled dozens of people being treated in the hospital. The 10 rooms and halls were crowded with patients. Dr. Haff and his young assistant, Dr. Lentz, were exhausted. The epidemic had se-

rious impacts on Dr. Lentz. He moved to Arizona in an attempt to restore his health.

After the epidemic, Dr. Haff expanded once again, purchasing land on Laubach Avenue and constructed a gleaming new brick hospital in 1922. The hospital increased to 40 rooms with the most modern medical equipment. In 1923, Haff constructed a beautiful family residence on East 21st Street in Northampton. The home today is Reichel Funeral Home.

Mr. Reichel has placed a brass

plaque at the entrance of the home to remember Dr. Charles Haff.

Dr. Haff loved music. Few people realize the number of valuable instruments he owned and performed on.

We are returning to the year 1937. He was very active in the Rotary Club. A 1937 edition of its paper, Messenger, writes about some of Dr. Haff’s priceless collection.

The paper states, “Dr. Haff’s

Continued on page 16

Construction of Haff Hospital, photo courtesy of Larry Oberly

Northampton School District will begin providing Free breakfast for all students

By SAVANNAH BROWN

During the Northampton School Board meeting on Monday, August 14, Superintendent Joseph Kovalchik announced

that the district will be implementing a free breakfast program for students. However, the program won’t officially start until Monday, September 11.

This announcement follows the August 3 signing of the state budget, which provides that all Pa. students will have access to free school breakfast for the 2023-24 school year.

Kovalchik expressed that he does not want this to cut into academic time, so the district will have to make some decisions about how to manage this program and fit it into the current school year schedule.

During regular agenda items, the board unanimously approved the following items directed under personnel/voice vote: one resignation for the purpose of retirement; two resignations; two leave of absences; the revised list of professional and support staff transfers; the district master substitute listing; and the district master volunteer list for the 2023-24 school year.

Under personnel/roll call vote, the board unanimously approved the following items: the revised listing of 2023-24 fall season head coaches and assistant coaches with designated payments; the revised list of summer library workers and their compensation; the listing of building substitute teachers for the 2023-24 school

year at a per diem rate of $187.84; the attendance of the Director of Special Education and Supervisor of Special Education Curriculum and Instruction to attend the Council of Administrators of Special Education Conference in November at a cost of $2,410.01; and the mentor/inductee list for the 2023-24 school year with stipend payments.

The board also approved the following hires: Taylor Atiyeh as long-term substitute Grade 3 elementary teacher at Siegfried Elementary; Aurora Edwards as special education instructional assistant at the middle school; Jay Muhr as hall monitor at the middle school; Barry Schultz, Jr. as the middle school assistant principal; Rokhaya Diabakhate as 1:1 special education instructional assistant at the middle school; Matthew Frailey as assistant athletic director; Samantha Zuber as 1:1 special education instructional assistant at Franklin Elementary; Mary Beers as special education instructional assistant at the high school; Krysten Bowman as TPE English teacher at the middle school; and Shane Nauss as a 12-month school psychologist.

Under policy, the board unanimously approved the filing of district-initiated tax assessment appeals for recommended properties, as well as the following revised and new policies for adoption: Policy 224 – Care of School Property; Policy 249.1 –Anti-Bullying; and Policy 708 –Lending of Facilities/Operations Equipment and Books.

In other business, the board unanimously approved the following agenda items listed under facilities: the proposal to repair and recoat the tennis court by Pavement Maintenance Contractors, Inc. at a cost of $42,890, which is scheduled to be completed during summer 2024; a quote from Tri-Boro Fencing,

Inc. at a cost of $37,459 to replace the fence along Laubach Avenue and $6,973 to replace the fence bordering the basement stairwell at the high school; a five-year service agreement effective Sept. 1, 2023 through Aug. 31, 2028 with Trane Building Services for service to the middle school and Lehigh Elementary’s HVAC direct digital controls system for a total cost of $87,451 spread across each school year; a five-year chiller service agreement with Trane U.S., Inc. effective July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2029 at a total cost of $116,751 spread across each school year; the purchase of district-wide door prop alarms at a cost of $69,364.49, which will be funded through grants; a one-year service agreement with Cintas, Inc. for service and inspections of the fire alarm and sprinkler systems district wide, which will renew annually unless canceled; a three-year service agreement with H.T. Lyons to annually service, test and document the district’s 23 back-flowpreventers at a cost of $4,820 for year one, $5,020 for year two, and $5,220 for year three; and the proposal from Otis Elevator Company on the amount of $29,250 to upgrade the elevator at George Wolf Elementary.

Director Kim Bretzik proposed a motion to table two items in relation to the Route 329 elementary school project until the next school board meeting because of the board’s unanimous poll to keep Moore Elementary open. Bretzik felt that moving forward without having a plan and data in front of her makes her believe that Moore Elementary is still being excluded from the capital improvement projects and will inevitably close, so she did not feel confident voting on those items. Director Doug Vaughn also voted in favor of tabling the items, but the rest of the board voted not to table those agenda items.

By majority vote, the board approved the advertisement for bids for the Route 329 Elementary School and Education Center with only Bretzik opposing the motion.

By majority vote, the board also approved and authorized the school board president to execute an Intergovernmental Cooperation Agreement For Sanitary Sewer Collection entered into between East Allen Township and NASD for the purpose of transmission and treatment of sewage generated by the new Route 329 Elementary School and Education Center, which will be constructed in accordance with approvals granted by East Allen Township and other agencies having jurisdiction over the project, with Bretzik and Vaughn opposing the motion.

In other business, under finances, the board unanimously approved the following items: the Memorandum of Understanding for First Alt Transportation on an as needed basis and provide additional transportation options for students for the upcoming school

BATH AREA

School Board

Continued from page 6

year; the service of Atlas Transportation, Inc. on an as needed basis and to provide additional transportation options for students for the upcoming school year; the Treasurer’s Report; Public Official Bonds through Willis of Pennsylvania, Inc. with Fidelity & Deposit Company of Maryland as the carrier for the assistant board secretary and board treasurer; transfer of the remaining balance from the Lehigh Elementary Bond Fund to the General Fund; a contract with BHA to provide education and

behavioral services to students; a contract with Lehigh Learning Academy to provide education and behavioral services to district students; the collaborative agreement/contract for services between Center for Humanistic Change and NASD for 202324 to provide liaison services for the Student Assistance Program; the partnership between MidAtlantic Rehabilitation Services and NASD for 2023-24 to provide counseling, student support services and remedial programming for the Student Assistance Program; the Bills for Payment; and the Memorandum of Agreement for services between Valley Youth House and NASD for the upcoming school year to provide additional counseling services at

the middle school, Moore Elementary, George Wolf Elementary, Lehigh Elementary and Siegfried Elementary at a cost not to exceed $90,000 paid for through grants secured by Valley Youth House.

Last, the board unanimously approved the items listed under miscellaneous including the list of active first student drivers/ operators and the acceptance of a bench by the family of Jessica Finlayson to honor Jessica’s memory and the time she spent as a teacher at the middle school.

The next Northampton School Board meeting will be held on Monday, September 11 at 6:30 p.m. in the Northampton Area High School auditorium, located at 1619 Laubach Ave.

Northampton Borough Police Report

JULY 29

Traffic stop in the 600 block of E. 21st St., the 2100 block of Washington Ave., the 500 block, the 1600 block and the 1900 block of Main St., Laubach Ave. and E. 21st St., the unit block of W. 21st St., and E. 4th St. and Main St. Traffic stops were conducted.

Suspicious person in the 1600 block of Newport Ave. Report of a suspicious male.

Assist person in the 400 block of E. 9th St. Officers assist a female.

Domestic in the 200 block of E. 20th St. between two males.

Check person/welfare in the 500 block of Coventry Ct. Request to check the welfare of a female.

dangers of buying counterfeit prescription pills that may contain fentanyl. The campaign is funded from proceeds secured from litigation against opioid manufacturers. This funding from the settlement gives the County the opportunity to

strengthen our response to the ongoing epidemic, raise awareness to prevent addiction and offer services to treat addiction. The NARCAN is provided at no cost through the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency.

You can learn more about our campaign by visiting FakeIsReal.org. The event is free and open to the public.

Kailyn Mann, DO Lehigh Valley Heart and Vascular Institute

HEART AND VASCULAR | CANCER | NEUROSCIENCE

Northampton School Board hears presentation on land development, permit Progress for Route 329 project

By SAVANNAH BROWN

During the Monday, August 14 Northampton School Board meeting, D’Huy Engineering, Inc. and KCBA Architects provided an update on the land development and permit progress for the proposed Route 329 elementary school project.

President of D’Huy Engineering, Inc., Arif Fazil, explained that one of the bigger items currently being worked on is the intermunicipal sewer agreements between East Allen Township and Allen Township, East Allen Township and Northampton Borough, and Allen Township and Northamp-

ton Borough, which is currently in a final review process after the board approved it later in the meeting.

The other item the district is waiting on is the sewer module that was submitted to DEP at the end of June, and it is currently under review, which is usually a

120-day process.

Additionally, PennDOT approvals for the highway occupancy permit are under final review and subsequent approvals for sewer, water line and gas line easements have all been reviewed and will be subject to approval as soon as the HOP under final re-

view is completed.

While final DEP sewer module approval is under final review, East Allen Township has also agreed to review the building plans in preparation for issuance of a building permit, so if there are any issues with code-related items, they can be incorporated into the bid set for the contractors to bid on appropriately.

Therefore, the only thing left to submit and obtain is the East Allen Township final land development approval, which is pending approval following the sewer module.

Fazil stated that the project may begin construction in March depending on how things pan out and finish sometime between early 2026 throughout that summer, so that the school will open in August 2026 for the 2026-27 school year.

The next steps for the project and bidding schedule are as follows: advertise project on August 22, August 28 and September 5; mandatory pre-bid meeting with contractors on September 8; receive bid proposals starting October 26; meeting with leadership team to review bids and prepare recommendation to school board on November 2; provide recom-

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School Board

Continued from page 8

mendation of award to board on November 7; and board meeting for bid award on November 13. During the meeting, various board members expressed interest in keeping Moore Elementary open in addition to building the new elementary school, so the district would potentially have five elementary schools in operation.

School Board President James Chuss proposed a poll to determine who would prefer to keep Moore Elementary open, and

board members unanimously voted in favor of having five elementary schools, with Moore Elementary remaining open.

Director Kim Bretzik asked what the financial plan is to sustain a fifth elementary school and make the necessary repairs, including costs associated with staffing and repairs?

After the poll, Fazil suggested that the facilities committee put some parameters together and present those to the board to refine costs and impact associated with keeping Moore Elementary open and phasing renovations.

Congratulations to the Borough of Bath Happy 275th Anniversary

The poll came as a shock to many residents because in Sep-

AcceptingNewCustomers AcceptingNewCustomers

tember 2022, the board voted on the direction of the Act 34 Hearing that took place in November. Option one was to build a new elementary school, close Franklin Elementary and keep Moore

Elementary open, which would mean that the district would have five elementary schools. Option five was to build the new elementary school and close all buildings while keeping some sections of

building open for administrative and community uses.

Board members that voted for option one included Kim

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soon-to-be husband were walking out of the hospital on the day of Meagan’s passing, a monarch butterfly flew towards them and encircled them as they walked to their cars. As they departed, the monarch butterfly rose toward the sky and flew off.

That’s when Kayla expressed that the monarch butterfly must be her sister’s spirit.

Shortly after Meagan passed, Sharon Schell reached out to the family to offer condolences and provide them with a monarch caterpillar to help them as they grieved, which she refers to as her “butterfly ministry.” Unbeknownst to her, the family had

already developed a spiritual connection with the monarch butterfly.

Miraculously, the day she delivered the caterpillar to the family, it began changing into a chrysalis right before their eyes.

“Two weeks later, a beautiful butterfly emerged from the chrysalis, which coincidentally was the day before Kayla was to be married. Kayla was able to release that special monarch at her wedding the following day, making the emotional connection to her sister,” Sharon shared.

“Sharon is the reason for all of this,” Rev. Mraz beamed.

Rev. Mraz also dedicated the waystation to his son-in-law’s sister, Dawn Lockard in addition to his wife and granddaughter, which stands as a living memorial to celebrate their lives.

Unfortunately, the monarch

butterfly was recently designated as endangered based on the monarch population’s decline, which is due largely to the loss of milkweed habitats that caterpillars live off of. Therefore, the waystation also serves as a means to help the monarch butterfly population, with the hopes that it will inspire others to create something similar at other parks and even in their backyards.

Pa. State Rep. Zach Mako arrived later to witness the dedication ceremony and provide Rev. Mraz with a citation in honor of his 90th birthday, which Rev. Mraz celebrated on April 16.

The citation congratulated Rev. Mraz’ on the momentous occasion of his 90th birthday and recognized his contribution to the enrichment and betterment of succeeding generations through his wisdom and experience.

Both Rev. Mraz and Sharon hope that this Monarch Butterfly Waystation will serve as a first for others to consider replicating as a way of commemorating their

loved ones in the future, in addition to the beauty, education, enthusiasm and comfort to the community that the waystation will bring every summer.

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agree that their Italian cuisine doesn’t just delight your taste buds, but it’s also good for the soul—whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, eating out with your family and friends, or even eating your feelings, Assante’s is there for you through all of it.

Leading up to the event, the Italian restaurant sold over 300 tickets in just a few days and had an influx of businesses wanting to be a part of their anniversary celebration.

Guests were lined up for the feast and festivities before sitting down to enjoy their buffet selections in the outdoor tented areas as the smell of irresistible Italian food permeated the air, making

Myster Tree and Shrub Service

everyone’s stomachs growl in anticipation.

The buffet, filled with all of the traditional Italian favorites was a pasta lover’s dream with a range of dishes prepared by chefs Giulio and Maruo.

In addition to the buffet, the celebration had a bounce house, balloon animals, and face painting for kids, a photo booth, cornhole, live music by Michael Sherer, and an incredible assortment of baskets donated by various local businesses to be raffled off.

Greater Northampton Area Chamber of Commerce Liaison Jessica O’Donnell-Gower who is also Executive Vice President of Affiliated Chambers for the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce congratulated Assante Ristorante Italiano on their 20 years of business and wished them another successful 20 years. The Chamber was also joined by local and state officials such as Pa. State Senator Nick Miller, Pa. State Rep. Zach Mako (who loves Assante’s so much that he had them cater his wedding), Northampton County Executive Lamont McClure, and Selina Winchester from Rep. Susan Wild’s office, who all provided certificates to the Assante family congratulating their 20 years of business.

Borough of Northampton Mayor Anthony Pristash also provided a proclamation com-

Assante

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memorating the 20th anniversary of Assante’s grand opening and proclaiming Tuesday, Aug. 15, 2023 as Assante Ristorante Italiano Day.

Mayor Pristash wished them continued success in the future and thanked the Assante family for dedicating 20 years to serving countless culinary creations and warm dining experiences.

The Assante family, including Mario, Luisa, Rosanna, Giulio, Nicola (Nic), and Nunzia, were overcome with joy as everyone counted down from five and Luisa cut the big blue ribbon marking 20 years of food, family, and

love shared with the community.

After the ribbon cutting, Nic shared his family’s story on how they got started, which began when Mario and Luisa decided to move their family here from Italy with the hopes of giving their children a better life over 20 years ago.

“I will be honest; it wasn’t easy when we first moved here. It was just the six of us. We had moved to New Jersey and lived in a twobedroom apartment with all six of us until we finally found this place. On Aug. 15, 2003, we officially renamed it Assante’s and fast forward 20 years later, because of all of you, we are where we are today!”

Then, Nic thanked everyone for coming to their special cel-

ebration, including the Chamber and the businesses that donated raffle baskets.

“Without your love and support, we would not be able to keep doing what we love,” Nic expressed.

He also took the time to especially thank the Assante staff for all of their hard work and dedication, as well as Linda Bertoni, Toni Groube and Maria Martuscelli who helped plan and set up the event.

There wasn’t an empty seat to be had under the dining tent as guests ate, drank and mingled during the momentous anniversary celebration.

Throughout the night, the outpour of love and support that the Assante family received during their anniversary celebration clearly showed just how important the restaurant is to the community, and it sure doesn’t hurt that the wafting smell of their savory sauce is enough to make anyone’s mouth water.

Undoubtedly, Assante Ristorante Italiano will have customers coming back for more of their refined Italian cuisine for another 20 years.

Northampton Council praises Code enforcement, questions Upcoming music festival

By KERI LINDENMUTH

During the Northampton Borough Council meeting on Thursday, August 17, Council President Judith Kutzler thanked the borough’s code enforcement, zoning and public works teams. This comes after she said the borough employees were “viciously attacked” on social media.

“Our code department addressed many violations brought to their attention,” she said. July saw 79 property maintenance violations, including 51 weed complaints. Other complaints involved illegal vehicles, debris on porches and overgrown hedges.

Andy’s Corner

By ANDY WEAVER

First thing’s first, I’d like to send well wishes to former Nazareth wrestler and now Ohio State wrestler Sammy Sasso, who was shot this past Friday night in Columbus, Ohio. He is expected to make a full recovery and we are all cheering for a fast recovery.

The Nazareth Football team will start their 2023 season on the road this Friday, August 25 when they travel to East Stroudsburg South.

The Nazareth Girls Tennis started their season at home on August 21, winning over Pocono Mountain West. The girls are back home on August 25 against East Stroudsburg South and then host Freedom on August 28.

The Nazareth Field Hockey team will start the season at Liberty on August 25 and then host Easton on August 31.

The Nazareth Girls Volleyball team will open the season at Freedom on August 29 and then host Dieruff on August 31.

The Nazareth Boys Soccer team will open at Bethlehem Catholic on August 28 and then host Central Catholic on August 30.

The Nazareth Girls Soccer team will open at home against Bethlehem Catholic on August 28 and then go to Central Catholic on August 30.

For up-to-the-minute sports news, visit www.nazarethsports. wordpress.com.

Kutztown University will Welcome newest Members of Golden Bear Family for fall 2023

Submitted by

BRYAN SALVADORE

Kutztown University is pleased to welcome the newest members of the Golden Bear family, including both new incoming freshmen and transfer students, for the upcoming 2023 fall semester. Local students being welcomed are:

Samuel Schoenen of Northampton; Kyle Beers of Nazareth; Casey Brown of Nazareth; Benicio Calantoni of Nazareth; Andre Allen Paz of Bath; Gracie Bowers of Northampton; Hunter Kunkel of Northampton; Rachel Green of Nazareth; Ryan Sodano of Nazareth; Jacob Avila of Northampton; Maycen Harryn of Northampton;

Elliany Miranda of Northampton;

Alay Patel of Nazareth; Wilbur Rodriguez of Northampton; Nichole Tomczyk of Nazareth;

Koye Whitman of Nazareth; Tanner Benckini of Northampton;

Madelyn Knauer of Cherryville;

Ethan Page of Nazareth; Jackson Mullen of Nazareth; Noah Ressler of Nazareth; Alivia Colbeth of Nazareth; Sydney Giovannucci of Nazareth; Andrew Vajda of Nazareth; Olivia Alessi of Nazareth; Ryan Smith of Northampton; Matthew Everhart of Northampton; Connor Murphy of Nazareth; Kasey Yeska of Bath; Maxwell Kochenash of Nazareth;

Audrey Logan of Nazareth; Preston Warne of Nazareth; Melissa Motsko of Danielsville; Mia Herman of Nazareth; Bailey Brossman of Northampton;

Emily Hoagland of Nazareth; Brenna Johnson of Nazareth; Vanessa Passanisi of Northampton; Shelby Werkheiser of Nazareth; Sophia Bretzik of Bath; Megan Smith of Northampton;

Alex Weeast of Nazareth; Kyla Doyne of Bath; Winson Lin of Nazareth.

Easton awarded $405,572 to improve

Traffic signals

Submitted by TOM ANDREWS

On August 11, Easton was awarded $405,572 for updated traffic signal equipment throughout the city.

“By using the latest electronic traffic technology, we can help to ensure that motorists, pedestrians and cyclists stay safer on our city streets. These updates also will keep traffic moving efficiently,” said State Rep. Robert Freeman. The Easton project was one of 77 grants awarded statewide through the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation Green Light-Go program.

Police Report

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EMS ambulance assist in the 100 block of W. 29th St. Officers assist EMS with the transport of a female.

Unwanted person in the 700 block of Washington Ave. Report of an unwanted male.

Noise complaint, W. 28th St. and Cherryville Rd. Report of loud music.

JULY 30

EMS ambulance assist in the 300 block of Anthony Dr. Officers assist EMS with the transport of a male.

Mt Bethel Diner

Happy Labor Day!

Open Daily 6am-9pm EXCEPT Tuesdays 6am-3pm

Serving Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 2600 N. Delaware Dr., Mt. Bethel, PA (570) 897-6409

Borough Council

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In addition, the code enforcement team has brought rental ordinance registration up to 99% this year.

“All they want, and [all] this council wants, is our town to be clean,” she continued. “It seems like in the community, code [enforcement], like police, are either a hero or a fill-in-the-blank… we are Northampton, and we are

proud and will work hard to keep our town clean.”

Mayor Tony Pristash said Kutzler’s remarks were “well said.”

“We all have a social contract,” he continued. “And that contract is to take care of yourself and take care of your neighbors.”

In other news, council discussed a proposed music festival in Municipal Park. The Equinox Music Festival appeared on the council’s agenda in July and members of council met with one of the organizers in early August; however, questions remain regarding attendance and security.

The event will feature local bands, food trucks and craft ven-

dors. However, organizers have not yet provided a list of vendors.

Borough Manager LeRoy Brobst said this may be because not all vendors are registered yet; however, he said he would work with the organizers leading up to the event to get a list and ensure the event follows code and safety.

Mayor Tony Pristash said he listened to the band’s music, calling it “interesting,” before asking whether the event will have security, be it through the borough police department or a private security company.

“I just don’t want to open ourselves up for a liability,” cautioned Councilman Ronald Glassic. “There have been other groups performing there.”

Mayor Pristash clarified that he was more worried about the term “festival” and this being a first-time event, not so much the music.

“All of the events we have had, you’ve had a history,” he said, stating that social media marketing could mean hundreds of people are present. “Whether 20 or 20,000 people show up, we have a plan.”

Councilwoman Judy Haldemann expressed similar worries, citing parking.

Councilman Anthony Lopsonzski, Sr. said he would also like to see security present at the event but not dissuade groups from using the park.

“I would like to see more events in the park than what we have…we have a beautiful park there,” he said. “The bandshell has a beautiful way that it projects music.”

Congrats to last issue’s winner- Patricia Budinetz

Because security requirements were not in the application that event organizers submitted, Solicitor Brian Panella said the bor-

ough could not mandate security for this festival. “We can’t move the goalpost further back.”

Council voted to approve the event, scheduled for September 23. Councilwomen Kutzler and Bonnie Almond voted no. Councilman Kenneth Hall abstained because he was absent from the previous meeting when the event was discussed.

“I will do the best I can to cover all the bases,” Brobst promised council.

The next Northampton Borough Council meeting will be Thursday, September 7 at 7 p.m.

Bretzik, Robert Mentzell and Doug Vaughn, with all other board members choosing option five, so by majority vote, the board moved forward with option five in preparation of the Act 34 Hearing.

Additionally, during the June 16, 2022 NASD elementary school options and facility improvements presentation, Fazil presented that the estimated cost to renovate Moore Elementary at $180 per square foot plus 30% in fees and contingencies totaled $25,178,400, which would add to the projected $73,406,193 in costs for the Route 329 elementary school project.

Therefore, if using the data previously provided, this would bring the total costs to $98,584,593 and would require the district to increase its debt service. As of June 30, 2022, the district’s remaining borrowing capacity was capped at $114.5 million.

However, now that the board is switching directions, Kovalchik advised the board to be prepared if they want to go down this path for the financial implications that having five elementary schools open will cost.

More information to come.

Any questions may be sent to facilities@nasdschools.org.

Looking Back

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collection includes a violin, 246 years old, by Andrea Guarneri; a violin, 1657, by Nicola Amati; a viola, 397 years old, 1540; and a cello, 257 years old, 1680.”

Dr. Charles Haff, photo courtesy of Larry Oberly

In November 1937, Dr. Haff purchased a Stradivarius from an international violin dealer in Philadelphia. The violin was named after French violinist Charles Philippe Lafont. The violinist played for the emperor of Russia in 1808. When the czar was ousted in the Russian Revolution in 1918-19, the violin left Russia, as many Russians fled the violence. The violin was found in a Philadelphia shop.

A brief look at Antonio Stradivarius: Born in Cremona, Italy, he and his two sons crafted 2,500 instruments. Researchers think he crafted 500 violins. He made his last violin at age 93. He was a master craftsman whose name is preserved in the world’s music history. In 1937, the Stradivarius price range was $25,000 to $50,000.

Dr. Haff organized the Cremona Quartet, named after the birthplace of Stradivarius. The members were Winfield Wavrek, first violin; John Johnson, second violin; Dr. Haff, viola; and Paul Wavrek, cello.

I wonder if any of our older readers ever heard the quartet perform. A number of programs were held in his home on East 21st Street in Northampton, now the funeral home.

One of my late friends, Mrs. Doris Daumer, a graduate nurse of the hospital, enjoyed the music while in the nursing school. Dr. Haff personally would walk over to the hospital on Sunday evenings and play for the patients. We will travel with the quartet in two weeks. Join us, you’ll appreciate the music.