Moore Township Supervisors Consider upgrades to traffic Signal and proposed tax increase
By SAVANNAH BROWN
The Moore Township Board of Supervisors met Tuesday, Dec. 3.
During reports, Police Chief Gary West reported that the township had 281 total incidents for the month of November, which included three written and verbal warnings issued, 24 traffic citations issued, four arrests made for two DUIs, one assault and one Protection from Abuse violation, two non-traffic citations issued for burning ordinance violations, two reportable accidents and seven non-reportable accidents.
Fire Recorder Jason L. Harhart then provided the November report for the Klecknersville Rangers Vol. Fire Co., which included 83 ambulance calls and 35 fire calls, consisting of seven fires, five motor vehicle accidents, one fire police, two automatic fire alarms, three ambulance assists, three wires down, two trees down, two smoke/odor investigations, three mutual aid calls with Lehigh Township for fires, one mutual aid call with Bushkill Township for a motor vehicle accident and
six mutual aid calls with Bath for three motor vehicle accidents, two fire alarms and one carbon monoxide alarm.
In other news, the township is looking into the Green Light - Go PennDOT grant to upgrade the township's only traffic signal and intersection at routes 512 and 946. The upgrade will include a larger signal bulb and video or radar detection to make the intersection more efficient. The grant requires a 20% match, which will cost the township $20,000 if approved.
Township Engineer Kevin Horvath believes that the township has a very good chance of approval, so now that the pre-application has been filed, PennDOT will respond to the application by the end of January and the township will find out if the project is approved by the end of May.
After several residents complained about traffic safety at the Delps Road and North Mink Road intersection, Horvath determined the constraints to sight distance support warranting a three-way stop and a reduced speed limit to 25 mph, as well as advanced warning signs displayed on the road alerting for the threeway stop ahead.
However, the three-way stop would require a field study, which would cost the township approximately $2,500, so supervisors decided to hold off on the study for now. Instead, they opted to ask the property owner who resides at the intersection to cut back the vegetation on his property and see if this helps improve sight dis-
tance first.
Next, Horvath provided some possible stormwater management ordinance provisions related to existing ponds due to resident complaints about the flooding and degradation of North Mink Road, which is worsened by one property owner’s pond that overflows onto the road during heavy rain and washes the stone road away.
In response, the board unanimously authorized the township solicitor and zoning officer to ask the property owner to take some remedial measures or move forward with a citation if the property owner is unwilling to make improvements.
In other business, supervisors recognized the retirement of Sewage Enforcement Officer Chris Noll, stating that he has done a tremendous amount for the township and wished him well in his retirement. Alternate Ian Stoudt will take over the position in the new year.
A special meeting will be held on Friday, Dec. 27 at noon to approve the township’s 2025 budget. The proposed budget includes a tax increase of two mills, which will cost approximately $9 more per month for the average assessed homestead.
The township has issued the following statement in reference to the proposed tax increase:
“Since 2020, Moore Township has made significant strides in enhancing our community. We have maintained around-the-
NASD Administration Presents academic Report for 2023-24 School year
By SAVANNAH BROWN
During the Monday, Dec. 2 Northampton School Board meeting, Assistant Superintendent Michelle Schoeneberger provided a presentation on the district’s academic updates.
To begin, Schoeneberger provided the district’s demographic information while pointing out that the district has seen a rise in the percentage of special education students (now 19%), economically disadvantaged students (now 45.4%), ELL students (now 1.7%) and homeless students (now 1%).
Current demographics for enrollment percentages by race/ ethnicity include Asian students accounting for 0.5% of the population, Black students accounting for 3.1% (a slight decrease from 3.2% the previous school year), Hispanic students accounting for 15.5% (a slight increase from 14.2%), White students accounting for 78.2% (a slight decrease from 79.3%), and students of two or more races accounting for 2.8%.
Next, Schoeneberger began providing an overview of district assessments.
With regard to the PSSAs, which include English language arts, mathematics and science in Grades 3-8, the 2024 PSSA achievement and PVAAS growth district results included the following: 53% of students scored proficient/advanced in ELA (same as state average); 42%
scored proficient/advanced in mathematics, which is a 1% district increase from the previous school year (state average is 40%); and 70% scored proficient/advanced in science, which is a 6% decrease from the previous school year (state average is 66%).
For 2023-24, district strengths included an increase in ELA and math achievement, Grade 5 math growth and middle school ELA achievement and growth. Although not assessed, an increase in career mentorship opportunities at the high school is also helping to provide students with invaluable knowledge they will take with them as they graduate.
PSSA longitudinal data by grade level for ELA showed the following changes: Grade 3 scored 54% proficient, a 3% increase from the previous school year; Grade 4 scored 60% proficient, a 1% increase from the previous school year; Grade 5 scored 63% proficient, a 6% increase from the previous school year; Grade 6 scored 52% proficient, a 3% decrease from the previous school year; Grade 7 scored 51% proficient, an 8% increase from
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Acad. Report
Continued from page 1
the previous school year; and Grade 8 scored 39% proficient, a 7% decrease from the previous school year.
PSSA longitudinal data by grade level for math showed the following changes in proficiency scores: Grade 3 scored 55% proficient, a 2% decrease from the previous school year; Grade 4 scored 58% proficient, a 5% decrease from the previ-
Blue Christmas Service Sunday, Dec. 22 at 2 p.m. Covenant Church
2715 Mountain View Dr., Bath
Christmas Eve Worship Services
“A Baby That Changed The World” 3 p.m. & 7 p.m.
ous school year; Grade 5 scored 58% proficient, a 10% increase from the previous school year; Grade 6 scored 39% proficient, a 9% increase from the previous school year; Grade 7 scored 28% proficient, a 5% increase from the previous school year; and Grade 8 scored 18% proficient, a 5% decrease from the previous school year.
PSSA longitudinal data by grade level for science showed that Grade 4 scored 90% proficient, an increase of 1% to from the previous school year and Grade 8 scored 52% proficient, a 13% decrease from the previous school year;.
With regard to the fall 202425 DIBELS assessment, grades K-3 showed significant increases in students at or above the benchmark with 33% of students in kindergarten scoring at or above benchmark, 54% of students in Grade 1 scoring at or above benchmark (up from 36% the previous school year), 61% of students in Grade 2 scoring at or above benchmark (up from 53% the previous school year) and 61% of students in Grade
3 scoring at or above benchmark (up from 56% the previous school year).
Last school year, NASD introduced a new Grade 6 master schedule that included double the amount of time allotted for math instruction. Although Grade 6 ELA scores may have taken a backseat with a 3% decrease in proficiency, the 9% increase in Grade 6 math scores can be attributed to the new schedule.
With regard to the Keystone Exams, NAHS scored 47% proficient in biology, which is 12% lower than the state average, 31% proficient in Algebra I, which is 9% lower than the state average and 54% proficient in literature, which is 10% lower than the state average.
Schoeneberger identified that the district’s next steps will be to continue the cycle of improvement by analyzing data, monitoring goals and making adjustments to stay on top of things, as well as the continuation of formative assessments and instructional decision-making, targeted interventions with a focus on middle school foundational reading interventions, math classroom diagnostic testing, structured literacy through professional development and district auditing, implementation of new Grade 6 master schedule and preparation for shift to STEELS.
Additionally, NASD plans to explore new Grade 7 and 8 math program options, perform a curriculum and instructional review of Grade 5 math, perform classroom diagnostic testing for Keystone courses and increase career mentorship opportunities.
ITALIAN ANTIPASTO
prosciutto, soppresata, mortadella, parmigiano reggiano, imported provolone, roasted peppers and mixed olives
SEAFOOD SALAD
calamari, shrimp, mussels, scallops, crab legs, carrots & celery, tossed in a lemon juice & olive oil vinaigrette
FRIED CALAMARI
served with marinara sauce and lemon wedges
IMPORTED CHEESE TRAY
served with crackers
MOZZARELLA STICKS
MUSSELLS IN SPICY MARINARA
GREEK SALAD
DEADLINE TO ORDER SATURDAY, DEC. 21
heating instructions included
Pick-up between 1 and 5 p.m.
Christmas Eve
Mon-Sat 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sun 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
sauteed chicken breast topped with prosciutto. tomatoes, and mozzarella finished in a white wine sauce
Residents and parents can access the 2023-24 NASD Academic Report on the district website and contact Assistant Superintendent Schoeneberger with any questions.
The next Northampton School Board meeting will be held on Monday, Jan. 13 at 6:30 p.m. in the high school auditorium, located at 1619 Laubach Ave.
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.
Police Blotter
Disorderly conduct
On Nov. 24 at 12:08 a.m., the Colonial Regional Police Dept. responded to Wawa in Nazareth for a report of a physical fight between two males, one of which was armed with a metal bar. Upon police arrival, the actors were taken into custody and identified as 54-year-old Todd Hoadley, of Nazareth, and 18-year-old Joshua Zdichowski, of Mount Pocono.
A verbal altercation led to Hoadley shoving Zdichowski, which led to a physical fight in the parking lot area. Hoadley was charged with disorderly conduct and harassment, and Zdichowski was charged with disorderly conduct. The charges were filed with District Judge Capobianco’s office.
Retail theft
On Nov. 2, CRPD officers were dispatched to Target in Lower Nazareth Township for a
theft in progress. Upon arrival, officers were informed by Asset Protection that there was a female in the store selecting merchandise displayed for sale and that she was going to steal said items. The female, later identified as 35-year-old Christiana Mood, of Barto, concealed numerous jewelry items on her person and proceeded past all points of sale without rendering payment. Mood was searched and was found to be in possession of a controlled substance. Mood was placed under arrest for retail theft under possession of a controlled substance.
Retail theft
Colonial Regional Police Dept. investigated a retail theft that occurred at the Target in Lower Nazareth Township on Oct. 30. The incident involved 18-year-old Nikolas Henninger, of Easton, who was found to have taken $490.40 in merchandise. Henninger is charged with a misdemeanor of the first degree.
Northern R&S
Continued from page 1
clock police coverage, upgraded our vehicles and equipment and implemented a road program that has resulted in nearly 14 miles of roads being paved over the past three years. During this period, we have also streamlined our staff and reduced costs, while still supporting our road program and police services. Additionally, while unfunded mandates such as MS4 have been imposed, the costs have been absorbed by the general fund, instead of implementing a stormwater fee.
“Through effective grant writing, we have secured $2,076,259 in funding to continue making improvements and easing the financial burden on our residents.
However, rising costs for fuel, asphalt, vehicle maintenance, insurance and utilities have created a situation where our current revenues are insufficient to sustain our progress in improving services and infrastructure. Our municipal building is aging, and the
ongoing maintenance costs are a growing concern. As we work to maintain the building and explore alternatives, these expenses continue to rise.
“To continue our progress, we must implement a tax increase of two mills. One mill of taxes equals $1 per $1,000 of assessed property value. Therefore, a property with an assessed value of $50,000 will see an increase in municipal real estate taxes of $100 per year. This increase will enable us to maintain our police coverage, boost our contribution to the fire company and continue paving our roads.”
The December meetings for the Recreation Commission, Historical Commission and Land & Environmental Protection Board are all canceled and will reconvene in January.
The Community Days Committee will host a toy bingo on Sunday, Dec. 15 at the Klecknersville Rangers firehouse, located at 2718 Mountain View Drive. Doors will open at 11:30 a.m. and bingo will start at 1 p.m. Everyone is encouraged to bring
their children, as there will be prizes and games for all of them. Residents should be advised that the last day for leaf collection is Friday, Dec. 13.
Supervisors also announced that the electronic recycling event has been officially scheduled for Saturday, July 26 from 9-11 a.m. at the football field parking lot.
The next Moore Township Board of Supervisors regular monthly/reorganization meeting will be held on Monday, Jan. 6 at 6 p.m. in the municipal building, located at 2491 Community Drive.
Sophie Wettstein
Sophie Wettstein, 95, of Moore Township, formerly of East Hanover, N.J., passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on Sunday, Nov. 24 at Gracedale Nursing Home in Nazareth. She was the beloved wife of the late Albert Wettstein, with whom she shared 65 years of marriage prior to his passing in 2018. Sophie was the daughter of the late Wilhelm and Olga (Jesse) Schmidt. Born in 1929 in the part of Poland that was known for generations as East Prussia (pre-WWI) in a small farming village, she endured the thick of WWII. She was a refugee at the tender age of 15 and was reunited with her family four months later in northern Germany, where they
were relocated. Sophie arrived in New York City aboard the SS Washington in July 1950, and settled in Irvington, N.J. under the sponsorship of relatives there. Sophie enjoyed working endlessly in her garden and stopping in at the family business nearby to help out where she could. She also enjoyed making fabulous German dinners and desserts for family and guests, as was her specialty. She was an active member and volunteer of Salem United Church of Christ of Moorestown, and a former member of East Hanover First Aid Squad. Sophie and her husband, Albert, were members of Germania Park in Dover, N.J., a German-American cultural club.
Survivors: Sophie is survived by a son, James A. Wettstein Sr., of Moore Township; a daughter, Linda Laws and her husband, Douglas; five grandchildren, Nathaniel, Michael, Karen, Kristen and James Jr.; nieces and nephews and families living in Germany and Switzerland. Sophie was predeceased by her sisters, Lydia and Alma.
Services: A memorial service in celebration of Sophie's life will be held on Saturday, Dec. 21 at 12:30 p.m. at Salem United Church of Christ of Moorestown, 2218 Community Drive, Bath, PA 18014. Friends and relatives are invited to call on Saturday afternoon from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the church. Interment will be private. Arrangements are under the care and direction of the George G. Bensing Funeral Home, Inc., Village of Moorestown-Bath.
Contributions: In lieu of flowers, contributions may be offered in memory of Sophie to Salem United Church of Christ of Moorestown.
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Pinch of salt
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Homemade Eggnog
Ingredients
6 large egg yolks
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 cups milk
Ground cinnamon, for topping
Alcohol, optional (start with ¼ cup brandy, bourbon, rum or whisky, added at the same time as the vanilla, or after cooling the eggnog)
Instructions
Whisk the egg yolks and sugar together in a medium bowl until light and creamy.
In a saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the cream, milk, nutmeg and salt. Stir often until mixture reaches a bare simmer.
Add a big spoonful of the hot milk to the egg mixture, whisking vigorously. Repeat, adding a big spoonful at a time, to temper the eggs.
Once most of the hot milk has been added to the eggs, pour the mixture back into the saucepan on the stove.
Whisk constantly for a minute or so, until the mixture is just slightly thickened (or until it reaches about 160 degrees F on a thermometer). It will thicken more as it cools.
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla, and alcohol, if using.
Pour the eggnog through a fine mesh strainer into a pitcher or other container and cover with plastic wrap.
Refrigerate until chilled. It will thicken as it cools. If you want a thinner, completely smooth consistency, you can add the entire mixture to a blender with 1 or 2 tablespoons of milk and blend until smooth.
Serve with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, and fresh whipped cream, if desired.
Store homemade eggnog in the fridge for up to one week.
If you have a recipe you’d like to share with our readers, email it to cstroh@homenewspa.com or mail to PO Box A, Walnutport, PA 18088.
The Crafty Corner
WHAT YOU’LL NEED
Glue (hot glue or craft glue)
String Pack of cupcake liners
INSTRUCTIONS
Begin by flattening out the cupcake liners.
Then fold every cupcake liner in half with the pattern/color facing on the inside.
Glue an outside edge line up with another outside edge.
Repeat this process until all the liners are glued in one pile.
Cut your string to hang the ornament and glue it to the outside of all the folded papers.
Once that is set, add a decent amount of glue on the outside and bring the two outer pieces together. (It’s important to glue the outside pieces together because they will hold the ornament in place and give it that circular shape.)
Make sure everything dries completely.
Bath Borough Council to request JP Mascaro contract
Extension; announces 2025 schedule of meetings
By SAVANNAH BROWN
During the Bath Borough Council meeting on Monday, Dec. 9, Councilwoman Lauren Bullsnake commented on how nice the Rainbow Bridge pet dedication project at Paw Park turned out.
The project came from an idea that borough resident Autumn Masonheimer presented to council for a Rainbow Bridge pet remembrance after she saw something similar on TikTok. So, when Gage Landis asked council if they had any suggestions for his Eagle Scout Project, they shared Masonheimer’s idea with him.
Landis completed the project around the middle of November
and a dedication ceremony was held at Paw Park on Nov. 20, where the Rainbow Bridge and bulletin board that Landis created were unveiled.
The remembrance serves as a place where members of the community can come to commemorate, honor and celebrate the memories of beloved pets that have passed on.
Community members are encouraged to place photos of past pets on the bulletin board and to fasten their pets’ old collars around the railings of the Rainbow Bridge, so they may always be remembered.
“I think the best thing about it was introducing Autumn and
Gage. Two people who probably would have never met, yet they had a chance to meet on a really neat thing. And that to me is community. Where two people from different backgrounds can meet and contribute to a community project, that's what makes community,” expressed Councilman James Lisiecki.
In other news, council unanimously authorized the borough manager to send JP Mascaro a certified letter requesting a Municipal Solid Waste Contract extension into the fourth year, which will be for 2026.
The extension comes with a 6% increase and JP Mascaro will have 45 days to agree to the contract once the extension is submitted.
Municipal solid waste costs have gone up significantly across the board, which is why the borough believes the extension is the best choice at this time.
Additionally, Vice President Michele Ehrgott announced that the Public Works Department will be extending their leaf collection schedule by one week. The last day that leaves will be picked up in the borough is Monday, Dec. 16.
Next, council unanimously approved a motion to advertise a handicapped parking zone in the 100 block of North Walnut Street.
Council also unanimously approved a motion to advertise the upcoming 2025 meeting schedule.
Council’s regular monthly meetings will continue being on the second Monday of each month at 6 p.m., except for Monday, Oct. 13 (Columbus Day), which will instead be held on Tuesday, Oct. 14. If needed, the bi-monthly meetings will be held on the second Wednesday of each even numbered month at 6 p.m.
The public may listen to the meetings on the Borough of Bath YouTube Channel or on the Borough of Bath Facebook page if they cannot attend.
The following are the scheduled monthly sub-committee meeting days and times:
• Parks & Recreation Com-
mittee – First Monday of each month at 5 p.m.
• Environmental Advisory Committee – First Monday of each month at 6 p.m.
• Bath Planning Commission
– Third Monday of each month at 6 p.m.
• Bath 250 Committee – Third Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m.
• Community, Economic &
Frank
Steve Kerbacher 504
Alvin H Butz (2)
Lee Hilbert 632 (228-221)
Bob Davidson III 621 (235-223)
Bob Davidson Jr 540 (201)
Ben Bogdan 523
Frank Pavlov 513
Broken Tackle (1)
Shawn Carraghan 651 (246-214)
Ed Zupko 632 (225-223)
Paul Berkowitz 625 (215-200-210)
Shannon Quick 606 (225)
Butch Riddle 500 (217)
Maxx Amusements (3)
Earl Holland Jr 679 (235-256)
Earl Holland Sr 556 (205)
John Sverha 545 (226)
Bill Bachman 534
Fred Rice Jr 501
Vince Bauer
Fiberglass Repair (0)
Travis Iwasek 544 (225)
Neal Zettlemoyer 532
Carfara’s Paint & Wall Covering (4
Terry Pagotto 669 (208-267
Ed Musselman 642 (235-224)
Ty Pagotto 595 (214-214)
Terry Bartholomew 573 (211)
Gerald Bartholomew 544 (208)
Daku Auto Body (1)
Marc Beichey 640 (237-229)
Keith Wagner 623 (244-202)
Rob Daku 550 (223)
Scott Bortz 532
Rice Family (3
Jake Rice 559 (208)
Chris Reeser 546 (206)
Howard Rice 516
Bath Industrial League Week 14 Standings
Team Won Lost Shafer
Landscaping 34 22
D&R Precision Machine 33 23 WTF 33 23
Palmer Trophy & Awards 30 26
G&L SIGN FACTORY - 0
Paul Duda 504(192)
Don Schoeffling 322
Bill Fortner 514(189)
Bill Fortner 514(189)
Jason Eberts 543(193)
Moore Powersports - 4
Ed Taylor 583(220)
Chris Remaley 531(187)
Scott Friebolin 622(221,211)
Brad Stuckey 463
Milt Kelly 582(204
D&R PRECISION MACHINE - 3
Brian Dilley 585(203)
Dave Roman 529(192)
Rick Dilley 570(254)
Josh Horninger 506(180)
Butch Post Jr 633(257,206)
Shafer Landscaping - 1
Don Shafer 514(180)
Mark Flamisch 497
Jeff Lear 516(204)
Marty Csencsits 513(181)
Matt Paulus 673(222,235)
WTF - 3
James Mandarino 561(232)
Shawn Kulick 523(189)
Palmer Trophy - 2
Joey Mandarino 587(210)
Kurt Berger 519(201)
Butch Holland Sr. 591(233)
Chris Hoops 501(b) Jim Bendekovitz 691(237,255)
Mourning Would on Stump Pub - 2
Ed Musselman 615(223)
Earl Holland Jr 621(236,206)
David Betz 580(217)
Chris Benner 627(204,243)
Terry Heckman 677(257,225)
Robert Kulick 459
Adam Wetzel 415
Mike Klement 628(214,227)
COLORITE - 1
Don Arndt 525(188)
Adam Schisler 358
Steve Glesias 523(183)
Paul Durnin 519(188)
Noah Durnin 643(201,258)
Northampton Borough Police Report
Continued on page 11
NORTHAMPTON AREA
Northampton Borough Council reviews 2025 budget and Addresses tax increase
By KERI LINDENMUTH
During their meeting on Thursday, Dec. 5, the Northampton Borough Council approved the 2025 budget for public advertisement. The budget proposes a real estate tax increase of 1.5 mills. However, council defended this increase and stressed how borough officials worked hard to keep it as low as possible despite increasing costs from third-party vendors and utilities.
“I believe we have one of the best organizations here,” said Councilwoman Julia Kutlzer. She praised new Borough Manager Brian Welsko and Assistant Manager Jerry Serensits. “This has been a tedious task.”
From fire to police to public works, she said each borough department worked together to manage this increase and keep it below 2 mills.
“For many years, we have not had an increase, and many de-
partments have had to put on hold many of their needed projects,” she continued.
The main reason for this property tax increase is a $90,000 increase in the borough’s electric fees. Welsko said the goal was to keep the tax increase to no more than 1 mill, but streetlight costs “propelled this.” Electricity fees account for nearly two-thirds of the millage.
Councilman Ronald Glassic agreed that the increase is “well needed.”
“We have to move forward,” he added. “We have street repairs, [and] equipment that we need."
To manage costs, borough departments have taken on additional duties that may have previously been outsourced. The borough office staff will prepare and mail nearly 4,100 garbage bills. The code enforcement staff will send out rental inspection registration renewals. Police
Chief Bryan Kadingo manages much of the police department’s IT in addition to his duties as police chief.
Kutlzer praised these departments for their efforts. Rental inspection compliance is nearly 100%, while morale amongst the police department is “high thanks to awesome leadership.” The fire department, she added, “is working like a well-oiled machine” and continuously training to improve themselves and the safety of residents. She asked that more community members step up to volunteer for the fire police, which is currently run by only five volunteers. She also praised the sewer department and the recreation center.
In short, thanks to their work and care for the borough, she said she believes “this 2025 budget has been cut as much as possible.”
Council will vote on whether or not to officially approve the budget during their meeting on Thursday, Dec. 19.
In other news, funding continues to be raised by the Cindy Miles Adaptive Fund for accessibility improvements to the Fourth Street Playground. The
Celebrate the holidays at the Moravian Historical Society
Submitted by SUSAN ELLIS
The Moravian Historical Society is pleased to announce its 2024 holiday events.
The Morris Family Putz This year, the Moravian His-
torical Society will feature the Morris Family Putz in its holiday display. An elaborate miniature display that tells the Christmas story, the putz is a Moravian tradition that reaches back into the
18th century.
The Morris Family Putz began in the 1850s, and continued in the family home in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania until 1994, when it was donated to the Moravian Historical Society. Originally, the putz occupied most of the Morris dining room and was lit with beeswax candles. The collection includes hand-carved figurines from Germany that date to the mid-1800s. The unique feature of the Morris Family Putz is the inclusion of wild animals, including giraffes, bears, wolves and lions into the Christmas story. The display will take place in the 1740 Gray Cottage through Jan. 5. Free tours are offered daily at 1:45, 2:45 and 3:45 p.m.
Christmas in Nazareth
This town-wide celebration takes place at various locations in Nazareth on Saturday, Dec.
14 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Moravian Historical Society will feature free family-friendly activities including: an outdoor holiday market with local artisans and food trucks, musical performances by Nazareth Area School District student ensembles and free Historic Nazareth walking tours. Visitors will also enjoy free admission to the museum and the Morris Family Putz in the 1740 Gray Cottage.
Guided museum tours
Enjoy a guided tour of the Moravian Historical Society’s museum and learn about the significant contributions Moravians made to music, art, education and culture in early America. The museum features an outstanding collection of objects related to early Pennsylvania history.
Tours are available daily between 1 and 4 p.m.
Admission is $8, students and seniors $6, MHS members and children (under 5) are free.
Tickets are available online at www.moravianhistory.org or in person.
The Moravian Historical Society will be closed Dec. 24, 25, 31 and Jan. 1.
Nazareth to Celebrate Christmas in A big way
Submitted by LISA BORICK
The holiday season is in full swing and you do not want to miss a minute of the celebration in Nazareth.
The fun begins on Friday, Dec. 13 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Nazareth Center for the Arts with the Winter Member’s Exhibit Open House and live Christmas music in the gallery. Complimentary drinks and cookies will be available. This event is free and open to the public at 30 Belvidere St.
Afterwards, walk up Main Street to the Nazareth Area Chamber of Commerce's annual tree lighting ceremony in the circle at 7 p.m. Enjoy holiday music and the arrival of Santa on one of the beautiful Vigilance Hose Co. No. 1’s fire trucks.
On Saturday, Dec. 14, kickstart Christmas in Nazareth with a
The Classifieds
Deadline: Monday at 12 Noon | Phone: 610-923-0382 | E-mail: Classified@HomeNewsPa.com
The Fair Housing Act prohibits housing discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, and disability. It is illegal to deny housing to families with children under 18 years of age unless the housing qualifies as "housing for older persons.”
There will be no refunds after a classified advertisement is placed and paid. If an ad runs erroneously at the fault of the paper, we will offer a complimentary ad in the next edition of the publication.
ESTATE NOTICE
motions properly advertised in the published Agenda, will be entertained at this Special Meeting.
Council of the Borough of Nazareth Daniel Chiavaroli, President (12/5 & 12/12)
BOROUGH OF NORTHAMPTON PUBLIC NOTICE
ARE YOU HIRING?
Are you hiring and having trouble finding employees? Try placing a Help Wanted ad on our Classifieds page! Classifieds start at $10 for the first 25 words. Advertise for 3 weeks and get the fourth week free with mention of this ad. Call 610-923-0382 or email AskUs@ HomeNewsPA.com to get started. (TN)
YOUR AD HERE
Want to advertise your business here for as little as $10/ week? Call 610-923-0382 or email AskUs@HomeNewsPa. com to get started. (12/12)
RENT IT FAST!
With Home News classifieds for as little as $10/week. Call 610-923-0382 or place your ad online at www.homenewspa. com. Mention this ad to receive $1 off. (TN)
HOME GROWN WHITE, RED & LEHIGH GOLD POTATOES
Twin Maple Farm, 1 mile South Bath School Rd. Open Daily. 610-837-0175. (12/12)
NEVER MISS ANOTHER ISSUE
Weekly delivery to your mailbox. $24.95 for 52 issues of The Home News. Call today 800896-1392 to get started. (TN)
MILLER SUPPLY
ACE HARDWARE
Northampton, PA
Propane Fill Ups
All size tanks on premises Easy access for motorhomes
M-F: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Sat: 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Sun: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. 610-262-4566. (12/12)
NAZARETH PLATE
GLASS CO., INC.
27 Mauch Chunk St., Nazareth, Pa. Harvey vinyl replacement windows, solar rooms, storm windows & screens repaired/insulated glass, shower doors, plexiglass, mirrors, repairs made at your home. Free estimates. Commercial customers welcome. Call 610-7593682. Closed Saturdays. (12/12)
TED’S ROOFING
New Roofs & Repairs • ReRoofing • Roof Ventilation • Slate Repairs •Seamless Gutter
• Siding • Fascia & Soffit • No Streaking Shingle. Free Estimates & Fully Insured. Where Service & Quality Counts! PA#089829. 610-837-7508. (12/12)
CHRISTMAS COOKIE SALE By Salem United Methodist Church, 1067 Blue Mt. Dr., Danielsville. Orders due Dec. 15. Each order comes with over 2-dozen assorted, homemade cookies. $10/order. Call 570620-7985 or email dfelker85@ gmail.com to order (provide full name, phone number and number of plates). Pick up orders Dec. 22 from 10:45-11:30 a.m. (12/12)
FIND N SEEK SPONSORS
Calling all businesses- The Home News is currently seeking sponsors for our popular Find N Seek contest. Want your logo in the paper and customers walking through your door, for free? Contact us today! Call 610-923-0382 or email cstroh@ homenewspa.com. (12/12)
PHOTOS
The Home News is seeking photos for the December photo of the month contest. The theme is “Holiday Cheer.” Email your festive holiday photos to cstroh@homenewspa.com along with your name, description of photo, date and location taken. Deadline is Monday, Dec. 16. The winner will be featured in the Dec. 19 Christmas issue of The Home News. (12/12)
ESTATE NOTICE
Estate of Dolores M. Egge, late of City of Easton, County of Northampton and State of Pennsylvania, deceased WHEREAS, Letters Testamentary in the above-named estate have been granted to Karen L. Heydt, Executrix of the Estate of Dolores M. Egge. All persons indebted to the said estate are requested to make immediate payment, and those having claims or demands to present the same without delay to
Karen L. Hedyt
℅ Alfred S. Pierce, Esquire 124 Belvidere Street Nazareth, Pennsylvania, 18064
Alfred S. Pierce, Esquire Pierce & Steirer, LLC 124 Belvidere Street Nazareth, PA 18064
Attorneys for the Estate I.D. No. 21445 (11/28-12/12)
ESTATE NOTICE
Estate of BRIAN P. SOLT, deceased, late of the Borough of Walnutport, Northampton County, Pennsylvania, Letters Testamentary have been granted to the undersigned, who requests all persons having claims or demands against the Estate of the Decedent to make the same, and all persons indebted to the Decedent to make payments without delay to:
Executor: Barbara Jean Andrew
℅ Joshua D. Shulman, Esquire
SHULMAN LAW OFFICE PC 419 Delaware Avenue P.O. Box 157 Palmerton, PA 18071 (12/12-12/26)
Estate of Mary M. Schaffer, late of the City of Bethlehem, County of Northampton and State of Pennsylvania, deceased
WHEREAS, Letters Testamentary in the above-named estate have been granted to Lori Ann Piacenti, Executrix of the Estate of Mary M. Schaffer. All persons indebted to the said estate are requested to make immediate payment, and those having claims or demands to present the same without delay to
Lori Ann Piacenti
℅ Alfred S. Pierce, Esquire
124 Belvidere Street Nazareth, Pennsylvania, 18064
Alfred S. Pierce, Esquire
Pierce & Steirer, LLC
124 Belvidere Street Nazareth, PA 18064
Attorneys for the Estate I.D. No. 21445 (11/28-12/12)
ESTATE NOTICE
Estate of Margaret I. Schreck, Deceased, late of the Borough of Pen Argyl, County of Northampton, and Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Letters Testamentary have been granted to the undersigned, who requests all persons having claims or demands against the Estate of the Decedent to make known the same, and all persons indebted to the Decedent to make payments without delay to:
Janet C. Stocker
℅ Scott R. Steirer, Esquire
Pierce & Steirer, LLC
124 Belvidere Street Nazareth, PA 18064 (12/12-12/26)
ESTATE NOTICE
Estate of Barbara M. Bechtold, late of Borough of Walnutport, County of Northampton and Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, deceased.
Letters Testamentary on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned. All persons indebted to the estate are requested to make payment, and those having claims against to present them in writing without delay to the Attorney noted below.
Sonya Mora 1720 Newport Ae. Northampton, PA 18067
Administrator or Executor
Steven D. Brown, Esquire
Spengler Brown Law Offices 110 East Main Street Bath, PA 18014
Attorney for the Estate (12/5-12/19)
LEGAL NOTICE
BOROUGH OF NAZARETHSPECIAL PUBLIC MEETING ADOPTION OF NEW 2025 BOROUGH BUDGET
MONDAY - DECEMBER 16, 2024 6:00 PM - NAZARETH REGIONAL AMBULANCE CORPS
The Borough of Nazareth will hold a special public meeting. The Meeting will be held at 6:00 pm on Monday, December 16, 2024 in the training room of the Nazareth Regional Ambulance Corps, 519 Seip Avenue for the purpose of presenting and adopting the new 2025 Borough Budget. There will be no public commentary and only Finance
Notice is hereby given that the proposed 2025 budget of the Borough of Northampton may be examined by any citizen at the Office of the Borough of Northampton, located at 1401 Laubach Avenue, Northampton, Pennsylvania, 18067, Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. for a period of ten (10) business days from the date of this notice.
Brian Welsko Borough Manager (12/12)
BOROUGH OF NORTHAMPTON PUBLIC NOTICE
Notice is hereby given that the Borough Council of Northampton will conduct a public hearing and consider the adoption of the ordinances summarized herein, at a meeting on December 19, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. At said meeting, Council shall consider enacting, and if appropriate, will take a vote on adopting “An Ordinance of the Borough of Northampton, Northampton County, Pennsylvania, Fixing the Tax Rate for the Year 2025.”
The proposed ordinance sets a millage rate of 15.0 for Fiscal Year 2025 to raise revenue for the general Borough purposes, representing a property tax rate of 14.0 mils and a fire tax rate for 1.0 mill.
The full proposed text of said ordinance may be examined by any citizen at the Office of the Borough of Northampton, located at 1401 Laubach Avenue, Northampton, Pennsylvania, 18067, Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. until the date of the aforesaid Borough Council Meeting. Copies of the proposed ordinance may be obtained for a charge not greater than the cost thereof. Persons with disabilities who require any auxiliary aid, service, or other accommodation to observe or participate should contact the Borough Office at least five (5) days before the above date to discuss how your needs may be best accommodated.
Brian Welsko Borough Manager (12/12 & 12/19)
ESTATE NOTICE
Estate of Joyce L. Scheirer, a/k/a Joyce R. Scheirer, deceased, late of North Catasauqua Borough, County of Northampton and State of Pennsylvania, Letters Testamentary have been granted to the undersigned, who requests all persons having claims or demands against the Estate of the Decedent to make the same, and all persons indebted to the Decedent to make payments without delay to:
Executor: Nancy Kathryn Scheirer
℅ Joshua D. Shulman, Esquire SHULMAN LAW OFFICE PC 1935 Center Street Northampton, PA 18067 (12/12-12/26)
ESTATE NOTICE
Estate of Robert M. Eckroth, late of the Township of Moore, County of Northampton and State of Pennsylvania, deceased WHEREAS, Letters Testamentary in the above-named estate have been granted to Robert W. Eckroth and Curtis Mark Eckroth, Executors of the Estate of Robert M. Eckroth. All persons indebted to the said estate are requested to make immediate payment, and those having claims or demands to
present the same without delay to
Robert W. Eckroth and Curtis Mark Eckroth
℅ Alfred S. Pierce, Esquire
124 Belvidere Street
Nazareth, Pennsylvania, 18064
Alfred S. Pierce, Esquire Pierce & Steirer, LLC 124 Belvidere Street Nazareth, PA 18064
Attorneys for the Estate I.D. No. 21445 (12/12-12/26)
Northampton Borough Council
Continued from page 7
nonprofit has raised over $22,000 in grants. Over $115,000 of the organization's $850,000 goal has been raised.
The nonprofit is currently soliciting donations from local businesses. They have also launched a website (www.cindymilesfund. org) where users can purchase apparel to support the organization’s mission of inclusive play for all. Supporters can also find a “Buy a Brick” program on the site where they can purchase a personalized memorial brick for the playground.
Council praised the nonprofit and its mission.
“[This] will really make a difference in our community,” said Glassic.
Naz. Christmas
Continued from page 8 special edition of the Nazareth Farmers Market in the Nazareth Circle from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. You can visit your favorite vendors, find fun kids crafts activities and see the wonderful students from the Musik Makers Studio, from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. Then, starting at 1 p.m. will be the Brandellis band.
The Moravian Historical Society’s celebration will feature free family-friendly activities, including an outdoor holiday market with local artisans on the lawn of the historic 1740-1743 Whitefield House, annual putz display in the 1740 Gray Cottage, musical performances throughout the day, free children's activities, historic walking tours to the Nazareth Moravian Church putz display and seasonal food and drinks.
The Nazareth Area Chamber of Commerce will host a variety of vendors on South Main Street as well as the very popular Elf Trail through town. See if you can find every elf in town between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.
During the day, the Memorial Library of Nazareth and Vicinity will be hosting a variety of activities between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. at 295 E. Center St. and the Nazareth Center for the Arts will have arts and crafts vendors in the gallery.
Check out Nazareth’s community calendar at https://discover.nazarethpanow.com/calendar.
Bath Borough
Council
Continued from page 5
Development Committee – Third Wednesday of each month at 5 p.m.
• Personnel, Finance, & Administration Committee – Third Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m.
• Historic Architectural Review Board – Third Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. (as needed)
• Public Safety Committee – Fourth Monday of each month at 5 p.m.
• Bath Borough Stormwater Authority – Fourth Monday of each month at 6 p.m.
If a committee meeting scheduled on Monday or Wednesday falls on a holiday, the meeting will be canceled that month and will resume the following month or will be advertised and rescheduled.
Should the Monday evening Bath Planning Commission meeting fall on a holiday, the meeting will be held the next day at 6 p.m., and the Zoning Hearing Board and the Property Maintenance Code Board of Appeals will meet on an "as needed" basis only. All council and subcommittee meetings will be held in the Borough of Bath Municipal Building, located at 121 S. Walnut St.
The next Bath Borough Council meeting will be held on Monday, Jan. 13 at 6 p.m.
Northampton School Board elects Kristin Soldridge as president; tables Moore Elementary School renovation options
By SAVANNAH BROWN
The Northampton School Board met Monday, Dec. 2 for their annual organization and regular monthly meeting.
To begin, board president nominations were requested. Kristin Soldridge was nominated by Joshua Harris and John Becker was nominated by Doug Vaughn. Soldridge, whose term ends in 2027, was appointed as
board president in a 5-4 vote with Bretzik, Harris, Nathan Lichtenwalner, Brian McCulloch and Soldridge voting for her. All other board members voted for Becker.
Next, vice-president nominations were requested. At that time, Becker was nominated again by Vaughn and Lichtenwalner was nominated by Harris. Lichtenwalner, whose term ends
in 2025, was appointed as board vice-president in a 5-4 vote, with Bretzik, Harris, Lichtenwalner and McCulloch voting for him. All other board members voted for Becker.
Following, the board unanimously approved the 2025 school board meeting dates, location and time, which will continue to be held in the Northampton Area High School auditorium, located at 1619 Laubach Ave. at 6:30 p.m. on the following Mondays: Jan. 13 (cancellation date Jan. 15); Feb. 10 (cancellation date Feb. 12); March 10 (cancellation date March 12); April 14; May 12; June 16; July 21; Aug. 11; Sept. 8; Oct. 13; Nov. 10; and Dec. 1 (cancellation date Dec. 3).
In other business, the board continued discussion of the renovation options for Moore Elementary School.
Harris reiterated the stipulations he presented at the facilities meeting, requesting that a complete rebuild of Moore Elementary begin in the summer of 2026 and that contracts for the project be awarded no later than November 2025.
Congrats to last issue’s winner- JoAnn Furry
“If we don’t have a decision that binds the board into going for that timeline, I cannot get behind a complete rebuild of Moore,” said Harris.
Chris Haller from CHA Consulting Inc. informed the board that they will need to hit the ground running in January if they want to meet the timeline
Harris is requesting.
“Why are we rushing the project?” asked Vaughn.
The consensus amongst Harris, McCulloch and Soldridge, who offered their opinions on the rush to begin the project, was due to their concern that if work is not started soon or the board does not formally approve a rebuild or renovations to Moore Elementary, then the school will end up closing.
Becker stated that he is in favor of keeping Moore Elementary open, but in order to do the project right, he believes that a rebuild is necessary and that it should be spaced out with current capital projects and budgetary items because otherwise, the district will continue shelling out more money into repairs in subsequent years.
Current options and estimated costs for the proposed Moore Elementary rebuild and renovations include the following seven options:
• Option 1: Minimal scope$24,468,550
• Option 2: Minimal scope$20,684,800
• Option 3: Minimal scope with unit ventilators and builtup roof - $15,469,090
• Option 4: Minimal scope with 4-pipe VAV system, rubber roof, sewer plant, domestic water and playground equipment
- $20,501,620
• Option 5: Minimal scope with 4-pipe VAV system and built-up roof - $28,992,310
• Option 6: A complete building renovation at an estimated cost of $51 million
• Option 7: Demolition and rebuild of a new Moore Elementary School at an estimated cost of $70 million
Bretzik recommended the board table the item due to the unknown costs associated with
the proposed Bethlehem Area Vocational-Technical School expansion project, budget and capital improvement costs, the Act 1 Index and the impending Moore Elementary School renovations.
In a 5-4 vote, the board approved Bretzik’s motion to hold off on approving any of the options with Michael Baird, Bretzik, Ross Makary, Soldridge and Vaughn in favor of tabling the motion.
In other news, directors unanimously approved another motion by Bretzik to postpone approval of a resolution indicating the board will not raise the rate of taxes for fiscal year 2025-26 by more than the 4.8% Act 1 Index until discussion at the January meeting.
Business Administrator Craig Neiman assured the board that postponing the item would not interfere with the upcoming 2025-26 budget presentation, which will be shared at the January meeting.
Another big-ticket item that the board unanimously approved was the transfer of $3 million from the General Fund to the Capital Reserve for future capital improvements effective December 2024.
Directors unanimously approved several new extracurricular clubs that students can look forward to for the upcoming school year including the Borough Homework Club, High School Employment Prep Club, High School Envirothon Competition Team, High School Crochet Club, High School Support Our Armed Forces Club, Percussion Ensemble Club and Middle School History Vault Club.
The next Northampton School Board meeting will be held on Monday, Jan. 13 at 6:30 p.m. in the high school auditorium, located at 1619 Laubach Ave.
Suburban Darts
Week 14
Submitted by DAVE CASEY
This week in the Dart League we find Blessed Trinity ‘sandwiching’ a pair of 4-2 wins around a 6-2 loss to 1st place Dry land. Leading the way for Blessed Trinity were Teryan Gerhard, Bob Verona Dave Kaman, and Dave Crisati(HR) all with ‘3 hits’ apiece, while Butch Sillies and Bernie York each going 6 for 12 each for Dry land.
2nd place St. Paul’s moved closer to 1st place with a ‘sweep’ of Farmersville 6-5, 7-3, and 2-0. Hitters for St. Paul’s were Rich Kern 7 for 15, Paul Slimmon 6 for 13 (HR), Kevin Gross 6 for 15, and Brian Gross with a HR. Dave Campbell was 5 for 12, Tom George 4 for 11, and Mark Steigerwalt also 4 for 11 for Farmersville.
In another ‘sweep’ Ebenezer beat Star of Bethlehem by scores of 3-1, 13-6, and 12-9. Top hitters for Ebenezer included Paul Yoder 9 for 15, Bill Christine 8 for 12 (HR), Zane Blevins 6 for 14 (2 HR’s), Carol Voortman 6 for 15, and Joey Kish with 2 HR’s. For Star of Bethlehem, Scott Hoffert was 7 for 13, Ron Franken field 6 for 13, Josh Hoffert 5 for 12 (2 HR’s including a ‘Grand Slam’),
Walt Hoffert 5 for 13 and Nolan Hoffert with a HR.
The final match saw Emmanuel ‘sandwiching’ 7-1 and 4-0 wins around a 4-3 loss to Christ UCC.
Leading hitters for Emmanuel were Jack Hill and Al Nesbit both going 5 for 13, Jon Rice 5 for 16, with HR’s from Tom Dormida and Bob Bast. Donny Laudenslager and George Gasper had HR’s for Christ UCC.
W L
Dryland 27 15
St. Paul’s 26 16
Ebenezer 24 18
Blessed Trinity 22 20
Star of Bethlehem 21 21
Christ UCC 17 25
Emmanuel 16 26
Farmersville 15 27
Borough Police
of Main St. Officers assist a male.
Check person/welfare in the 200 block of E. 20th St., the 2000 block of Main St., and the 2800 block of Cherryville Rd. Requests to check the welfare of females.
Non-reportable accident in the 2000 block of Main St. involving two vehicles.
Christmas Eve Candlelight Service 4:30 pm Egypt Community Church 4129 South Church Street Whitehall, PA. 18052 egyptcc.org • 610-262-4961
Unwanted person in the 1200 block of Laubach Ave. Report of an unwanted male.
NOVEMBER 23
Check building in the unit block of E. 24th St. Request to check a building.
Traffic stop in the 600 block of Main St. A traffic stop was conducted.
Suspicious act in the 600 block of E. 21st St. Report of a suspicious act.
Disturbance in the 2100 block of Main St. Report of a disturbance.
EMS ambulance assist in the 2100 block of Washington Ave. Officers assist EMS with the transport of a male.
NOVEMBER 24
Traffic stop in the 1300 block of Stewart St. A traffic stop was conducted.
Assist person in the 1800 block of Lincoln Ave. Officers assist a male.
EMS ambulance assist in the 500 block of E. 11th St., and the 1800 block of Lincoln Ave. Of-
ficers assist EMS with the transports of females.
Check person/welfare in the 500 block of E. 11th St. Request to check the welfare of a female.
Check person/welfare in the 2300 block of Dewey Ave. Request to check the welfare of a male.
Troop 43 Foundation President John Buz and Scoutmaster Brian Radcliffe, recognition was made to all past Scoutmasters.
Scoutmaster Radcliffe then announced that Troop 43 is proud to have 71 Eagle Scouts in its history, asking all Eagle Scouts present to stand and give their name and the year they earned their Eagle rank. The oldest Eagle was Mr. Amedeo DiEdoardo Jr., who earned his Eagle in 1966, and the newest was David Heintzleman, who earned his Eagle in 2023. Special recognition was given to Mrs. Rose Zastko, whose husband Mike was a member of Troop 43 for decades. Most
of those in attendance were influenced in one way or another by Mr. Zastko’s expertise and Scouting knowledge.
After dinner, the remaining time was spent by former Scouts and leaders coming forward and telling stories of memories and experiences they had in their years of Scouting. Many of them attribute their success or career paths to what they had done and learned in Scouting.
A special thank you goes out to Michele Morrow and the Troop 43 foundation for putting the event together. A great time was had by all with many memories shared and old friends reunited.
