Bath Portland Cement Company: Part 1 of 4
A view of Bath Portland in 1906; from “The Lehigh Valley Cement Industry”
In today’s column, we are remembering the Bath Portland Cement Company. The plant was located on the current site of the Keystone Cement Company quarry on Route 329 in East Allen Township. Recently, this writer received a history of the Bath Portland Cement Company from Mrs. Barbara Wiemann, a historian with the Governor Wolf
Historical Society. Mrs. Wiemann graciously allowed us to print her writing and research with our many loyal readers. Mrs. Wiemann is a graduate of Palmerton High School and Millersville College, where she earned her library certification. She served as librarian at the Easton Area Public Library and the Henry F. Marx Local His-
tory Room for 42 years. According to the Easton Area Public Library webpage, the Marx Room contains the largest collection of local history and genealogy in northeastern Pennsylvania. A dedicated librarian, she continues her research with the Governor Wolf Historical Society. In this
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According to the American Bird Conservancy, “the horned lark is the only lark species native to North America. It is also found across much of the rest of the Northern Hemisphere, at one season or another. This bird's namesake ‘horns’ are actually curled tufts
of black feathers that can be erected and are usually visible only at close range. Male birds sport these adornments during the breeding season, at times raising or lowering them expressively. Especially in winter, horned larks can be seen foraging along roadsides, in feedlots and in fields where manure and waste grain are spread, especially when snow cover is heavy. Horned larks are early nesters, beginning as early as February even in northern states, where snowstorms are a risk. This prolific species may raise as many as three broods each year.”
Northampton School Board Hears 2025-26 preliminary Budget presentation
By SAVANNAH BROWN
During the Northampton School Board meeting on Monday, Jan. 13, Superintendent Joseph Kovalchik and Business Administrator Craig Neiman presented the 2025-26 school year preliminary budget to directors.
Kovalchik reiterated that the presentation was merely the first run through of the budget, which doesn’t require submission for state approval until June, and therefore includes many potential reductions that the board will be able to weigh in on. Neiman then shared some of the districts
revenue highlights, which include numerous recent industrial developments such as JW
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Horned larks sparring by Jeff Kaboly
Bath Portland in the early 1900s, from “Bath and Its Neighbors”
Pennsylvania Game Commission provides avian Influenza information
Submitted by ROBERT ARENA
Sen. Jarrett Coleman (R-16) is sharing tips to stay healthy and minimize the spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) following the Pennsylvania Game Commission’s announcement that it is the suspected cause of death for wild geese in the Lehigh Valley.
“As geese and other waterfowl migrate through our area, it’s important to know what to do if we see sick or dead birds,” said Coleman. “The Game Commission has provided some steps the public can take to help them track and manage any illness among wildlife.”
To best protect the health of wildlife, domestic animals and humans, the Game Commission asks the public to assist them by doing the following:
• Report sick or dead wild birds to the commission by calling 1-833-PGC-WILD (1-833-7429453), emailing pgc-wildlife-
8th Annual Nazareth Adult Soapbox Derby- Saturday, June 7 at noon on West Prospect Street in Nazareth. Visit nasbra.com for more info.
16th Annual Paw Prints on the Canal- Sunday, June 8 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Canal Street Park in Northampton.
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 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, email bathmuseum@gmail.com or message Bath Museum on Facebook.
Community Dinner at The Table- First and third Tuesdays of the month at 5:30 p.m. at 1769 Newport Ave., Northampton. All are welcome.
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 Historical Society- Meets third Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. at 5344 Nor-Bath Blvd., Northampton.
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.
Easton Winter Market- Every Saturday through April from 10 a.m. to noon outside the Easton Public Market, 323 Northampton St., Easton. EBT accepted.
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 Road, Bath.
Helping Homeless Veterans- Weave mats for homeless vets every second and fourth Wednesday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Prepping for weaving every first and third Wednesday noon to 3 p.m., Mountain View Wesleyan Church, 1001 Deemer Road, Bath. Call 610-8371190 FMI. Leave message.
Iglesia Pentecostal Church Food Bank- Open to the public every first and third Monday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 2459 E. Scenic Drive, Bath.
Moore Twp. Assoc. for Families in Need- Meets second Tuesday of every month at 7 p.m. at Covenant United Methodist Church, 2715 Mountain View Drive, Bath.
Morningstar Memory Cafe by Senior Solutions- An opportunity for people with dementia and their care partners to gather for fun, socialization and refreshments; meets second and fourth Thursday from 10 a.m. to noon at Advent Moravian Church, 3730 Jacksonville Road, Bethlehem. For registration, call 610-258-0700. Nazareth Winter Farmers Market- Held the third Saturday of the month through April from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Nazareth Center for the Arts, 30 Belvidere St.
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.
Looking Back
takes you back to the formation of the Bath Portland Cement Company.
The following has been researched and written by Barbara Wiemann.
The Bath Portland Cement Company
East Allen was an agrarian township with 138 farms in 1900. Farmer and farm laborer were the predominant occupations. Two hundred and forty eight dwellings sheltered 1,137 residents; all but 26 were native born. But change was at hand, and East Allen was about to become home to its first large-scale industrial operation.
Franks builds a cement plant
On Dec. 10, 1902, the Pennsylvania State Department issued a charter to the Bath Portland Cement Company of Easton; the new venture had capital of only $1,000. The man directing this endeavor was Fred B. Franks. Although only 32, he had already built and sold a cement mill near Martins Creek.
After attracting investors, in December 1903, BPCC purchased four farms (320 acres) located northeast of the intersection of present day Route 329 and Airport Road.
Construction of a modern cement manufacturing facility began almost immediately. Plans called for a plant constructed of concrete and metal, featuring a steam power plant with a duplicate electric plant. The stack would be 150 feet tall and the kilns 100 feet long. Plant construction took about 18 months and production began in July 1905. By November, the company was operating day and night
at full capacity.
In January 1906, BPCC packed 65,000 barrels, each containing 376 pounds of cement. In November, production reached 3,000 barrels a day. By 1908, BPCC employed 500 men.
The influx of employees created a need for housing and services.
A new general merchandise store opened near the plant. BPCC built tenant houses in what was known as East Jacksonville, on current Jacksonville Road. [In 1900, Jacksonville was the intersection of Airport Road and Route 329. When the intersection became known as Franks Corner, named for BPCC founder Fred Franks, the Jacksonville name shifted to the company houses to the east.]
For recreation, the company organized a baseball team.
Quarrying cement
To obtain its cement rock, BPCC operated a large quarry on the property. Indeed, the location of BPCC had been determined by the availability of the raw material. Blasting freed the ore.
On April 2, 1908, Mrs. Franks detonated the largest blast in the history of the cement industry up to that time. Workers drilled holes 20 feet from the edge of quarry cliff, 18 feet apart, 70 feet deep, tamped with 20,000 pounds of dynamite. Over 50,000 tons of cement rock were blown loose; the blast cost between $3,000 and $4,000.
In July, Mrs. Franks set off an even larger blast that loosened 100,000 tons of rock. The shock was felt in Easton, 15 miles away. This aggressive blasting was needed to meet a 1 million barrel order, worth $2 million, from Havana, Cuba.
Shareholder dissention
In November 1908, feuding shareholders elected a new management team. The losing share-
holders charged mismanagement by the new leaders, and in 1910, after a “long and bitter fight marked by acrimonious debate,” BPCC shareholders ousted the management and named Fred Franks superintendent and general manager. The fight wound its way through the court system. In 1911, the Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruled in favor of the 1908 team. However, perhaps learning a lesson, they retained Franks to run the operation.
In the next column, Mrs. Wiemann shares the growth and expansion of the Bath Portland Cement Company. See you in two weeks.
health@pa.gov or using the online Wildlife Health Survey tool.
• Dispose of a dead wild bird found on your property – if the Game Commission hasn’t responded within 24 hours – by burial or commercial/residential trash. Both methods will protect scavenging wildlife. If electing to dispose of the carcass, the follow-
ing guidance is provided:
• Before picking up the wild bird carcass, put on either disposable or washable gloves. If gloves are unavailable, a plastic bag can be used as a makeshift glove.
• If performing on-site burial, a burial hole at least 2 feet deep will discourage scavenging. Do not bury the carcass in an area that could contaminate a water
supply.
• If disposing of the carcass in commercial/residential trash, place the carcass in a plastic bag along with any disposal gloves that were used. Then place everything in a second plastic bag before disposal.
Patricia A. Polakovich
Patricia A. (Lahuta) Polakovich, 84, formerly of Victoria Drive, Allentown, died peacefully late Saturday evening Jan. 18, 2025, at Lehigh Valley Hospital, Hecktown Oaks Campus, Easton. She was the wife of the late Joseph W. Polakovich, who passed in 2013. Born in Northampton, she was the daughter of the late Walter and Pauline (Cesanek) Lahuta.
Patricia was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and homemaker. In her early years, she was employed as an elementary school teacher by the Pen Argyl School District. She attended Notre Dame Catholic Church, Bethlehem. Patricia was a 1958 graduate of Northampton High School, later graduating from Kutztown University. She enjoyed NASCAR, NFL Pittsburgh Steelers football, reading, playing cards and puzzles.
Survivors: Daughters, Regina Lilly, of Lehighton, Paula Polakovich and fiancé Matt Bernhard, of Bath, Alicia, wife of Sean Deppe, of Slatington, and Krista, wife of Stephen Jones, of Bethlehem; son, Joseph W. Polakovich and companion Jennifer Wargo, of Lehighton; five grandchildren, Janelle, Tyler, Payton, Natalie and Harrison; and great-granddaughter, Olivia.
Services: 2:30 p.m. Friday, Schisler Funeral Home, 2119 Washington Ave., Northampton, PA 18067. Call, 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Interment, Holy Savior RC Cemetery, Bethlehem. Online condolences: www.schislerfuneralhomes.com.
Contributions: Peaceable Kingdom, Inc., P.O. Box 424, 1049 MacArthur Road, Whitehall, PA 18052.
2 upcoming Antique shows Less
than 2 Miles apart in Bath
Submitted by CAROL BEAR-HECKMAN
The Governor Wolf Historical Society celebrates its 16th antiques show and the Chestnut Street Antiques Show celebrates its 10th year on March 1 and 2, only a few miles apart in Bath. Dealers of the show have said they loved the setting, that it was the perfect location and atmosphere, and that they enjoyed the hearth cooking.
One of the unique features about the Governor Wolf Historical Society show is the period room settings that the dealers create in the restored 1785 Ralston-McKeen House. A cut-stone, center hall home, the Ralston-McKeen House with six corner fireplaces is the perfect backdrop for 18th and 19th century antiques. An added bonus is the hearth cooking demonstrations in the tavern room. Favor-
ites are potato pie and rosemary cake. They are done with antique hearth cooking implements by GWHS members in the large walk-in fireplace. Not sure what certain antique kitchen tools were meant for? This is the place to ask and see them in action. The ladies have also compiled and will be selling a small booklet of their favorite Colonial recipes.
On the GWHS site there are two other historic buildings that will be filled with antiques dealers- the 1785 Wolf Academy, birthplace of public education for all boys and girls in Pennsylvania, and the Monocacy Schoolhouse, which also contains the society’s museum highlighting the accomplishments of the seventh governor of Pennsylvania, Governor George Wolf. In the Monocacy Schoolhouse, lunch will be available including homemade soups, loaded sandwiches, fresh baked goods and more.
Less than 2 miles to the north is the Chestnut Street Antiques Show. The show is located in one of the earliest churches in Historic Bath, Christ Church, built in 1876. The main room of the show is Fellowship Hall which has a tall, arched wooden ceiling. Homemade food and fresh baked goodies will be offered by the ladies of the church in the Garden of Feedin’ Café.
Every building on Historic South Chestnut Street dates between 1799 and 1899, and in 2024 a 12-block area of historic Bath was named to the National Register of Historic Places by the National Park Service. An added bonus are the three antiques shops on the same block as the show within walking distance.
On Sunday, the GWHS show will feature the popular appraisal clinic from noon until 2 p.m. At-
tendees to the show may bring in a maximum of two items, and at a cost of $5 each, may have their items verbally appraised by a veteran antiques dealer.
The hours of the GWHS show are Saturday, March 1 from 9 a.m to 4 p.m. and Sunday, March 2
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.
BATH AREA
Local couple celebrates 65 years of marriage
Vernon and Patricia were married in Grace UCC, Northampton, on Jan. 23, 1960.
HERE!” 2025 Kindergarten Readiness Summer Camp Flyer AGE REQUIREMENTS
Admission to Kindergarten: Child must be five years old on or before September 1, 2025.
Admission to First Grade: Child must be six years old on or before September 1, 2025.
*Children currently enrolled in Kindergarten in our school district need not register for first grade.
HEALTH REQUIREMENTS
Immunization Record Must Show the Following:
• 4 doses of tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis (1 dose on or after the 4th birthday)
• 4 doses of polio (4th dose on or after the 4th birthday and at least 6 months after previous dose given)
• 2 doses of measles, mumps, rubella - usually given as MMR
• 3 doses of hepatitis B
• 2 doses of varicella (chickenpox) or evidence of immunity
Physical and dental examinations are required for entrance into Kindergarten and may be completed up to one year prior to entrance into kindergarten. The Dental Form and Physical Form for these exams are available on our District website listed above.
ENROLLMENT REQUIREMENTS
Upload to Your Child’s Online Application:
• 2 proofs of residency in Northampton Area School District that also verify parent/guardian name and address
• One (1) of the following:
• Copy of current mortgage, lease, or rental agreement, or
• Residency affidavit or Multiple Occupancy Certificate, and
• At least one (1) of the following:
• Current utility bill (within previous thirty (30) days), or
• Pennsylvania Department of Transportation identification or driver’s license, with current address, or
• Copy of recent paycheck stub with name and address of employee and employer, or
• Copy of state/federal program enrollment.
• Original birth certificate for child
• Custody papers (if applicable)
If you are unable to register online at home, please call your child’s school for assistance: Northampton Borough Elementary: 610-262-6430 Lehigh
Submitted by SHIRLEY LUTZ
Mr. and Mrs. Vernon S. Mann Sr. recently celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary.
Vernon is the son of the late Stanley U. and Florence L. (Longenbach) Mann, of Bath. Patricia is the daughter of the late Preston and Eva (Kohler) Lerch, of Northampton.
The two were married in Grace UCC, Northampton, on Jan. 23, 1960.
Vernon and Patricia have three children and two grandchildren: Vernon Jr. and wife Elaine, of Easton; Lori (Mann) Kolesnik and companion Robert Wisniewski, of Walnutport;
Todd and fiancée Beverly Hendershot, of Bath; and grandsons Shayne Kolesnik and Austin and wife Briana Kolesnik.
Vernon retired from UPS with 35 years of service and Pa -
tricia retired from T&L Distribution.
A surprise party was thrown by the family at their home in Bethlehem on Saturday evening.
Northampton AARP Chapter announces next Meeting
Submitted by JEAN RUNDLE
The Northampton AARP Chapter 3915 will meet on Wednesday, Feb. 12 at the Northampton Banquet and
Events Center, 1601 Laubach Ave. Doors will open at 11 a.m. All members are cordially invited to attend. New members are also welcome to visit
or join.
The 2025 membership dues are to be paid at the February meeting.
Members, please bring your favorite cake, cupcakes or cookies for the refreshment table. If there is inclement weather and the Northampton Area School District is closed or operating on a two-hour delay, there will be no meeting.
The meeting will be held in the Atlas Room.
Morningstar Living invites you to visit our Moravian Hall Square campus in Nazareth to enjoy a variety of programs.
EventFULL Living is a series of programs to enrich life’s journey. Reserve your place today in as many programs as you like.
The programs for FEBRUARY include:
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 4TH | 10:30AM
Going to the Target Zone
Exercising in your target heart rate zone can help you maximize your workout benefits and reduce your risk of heart disease. As an Exercise Physiologist, a retired Cardiac Rehab Specialist, and now a Fitness Coordinator at Moravian Hall Square, Diane Hallman saw patients slow down and reverse their coronary disease with lifestyle changes when exercising in their prescribed target heart rate zone. Diane will help you determine what target heart rate zone can improve your cardiac health, and how long you need to stay "in the zone."
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 18TH | 10:30AM
Monarch Butterflies are on a Flight for Survival
Every year, monarch butterflies undertake incredible migratory journeys. During winter, they travel thousands of miles to reach warmer climates. This migration is considered a “flight for survival” because it is crucial for the species’ continued existence. The monarch faces many challenges on this journey. Lynn Gliem from The Butterfly Guy will help us understand the history of the monarch, their life cycle, the migration process, and how we can help preserve these incredible creatures so that future generations may enjoy them. Lynn will also demonstrate how to butterfly garden, even in the smallest spaces. This presentation will include live monarch butterflies
Events are at Moravian Hall Square, 175 W North St, Nazareth, PA 18064
Reservations are required
Reserve your seat today by calling 6110 746 1000 or online at https://www morningstarliving org/upcoming-events/
Northampton Borough Police Report
JANUARY 18
Traffic stop, Main St. and Washington Ave., and the 700 block of Main St. Traffic stops were conducted.
EMS ambulance assist in the 100 block of W. 28th St., and the 100 block of Boro Vu Dr. Officers assist EMS with the transports of males.
Non-reportable accident in the 1000 block of Main St. involving two vehicles.
Civil matter in the 1800 block of Newport Ave. Report of a civil issue.
Disturbance in the 100 block of Held Dr., and the 1600 block of Newport Ave. Reports of disturbances.
NORTHAMPTON AREA
Northampton Borough Pool Undergoing renovations
By KERI LINDENMUTH
The Northampton Borough Pool is undergoing several renovations so residents can enjoy it to its fullest this summer. Work on the public pool is expected to begin in the coming weeks.
It was announced during the Jan. 16 council meeting that the pool’s pumps, plumbing and filtration will be updated in February. In spring, the borough also plans to repaint the pool, a wishlist item of council for several pool seasons.
In addition to pool renovations, Public Works is preparing to replace damaged playground equipment and install Valen-
School Board
Continued from page 1
Development Partners (Cesanek Road), 7345 and 7378 Airport Road, Century Commerce/Prologis (Liberty Drive behind Ace Hardware), Centerpoint/Geodis Willowbrook, FedEx Ground, Trader Joe’s, Fisher Scientific and Radar Distribution. The district is now realizing over $12 million annually in real estate tax revenue related to these properties.
Additionally, there are numerous recent housing developments in the district as well, which include the following: Toll Brothers (East Allen) – 246 on the books;
tine’s Day decorations throughout the borough. They will also be repairing the borough’s band trailer to make it rentable again for the 2025 season. The borough charges $300 for renting the trailer. Since the trailer was purchased by the borough, local organizations have regularly requested it for their summer festivals.
In other news, council announced that recycling bins are available to the public. They can be picked up in the borough office and cost $5.
2025 will also see a new administrative home for the borough’s code enforcement office.
Kay Homes – Fields at Willowbrook (Northampton Borough) –56 on the books; Towpath Estates (Allen) – 83/93 on the books; Sunny Slope Crossings (East Allen) – 0/81 on the books; Stone Ridge extension (Allen) – 0/80 units on the books; Northampton Crossings (Northampton Borough) – 40 on the books; Bathview Phase III (Bath) – 36 units on the books; Vineyard Estates (Lehigh) – 0/18 units on the books; and North Hills of Allen (Allen) – 0/58 units on the books. Future considerations include Jaindl Seminary (Lehigh/ Allen) – 475-500 units planned, Willowbrook Farm (Allen) –508 units planned; Northwood Estates (Lehigh) – 198 units planned, High Meadow Phase 2
The office has moved from its current office in the municipal building to a new office next to the Atlas Cement Museum. Visitors can follow the hallway from the lobby to reach the new office.
Finally, rental registration renewals for 2025 have begun. So far, $3,900 in registration fees have already been paid to the borough. Garbage payments for 2025 are also currently being collected. So far, the borough has processed $214,653.76 in garbage fees.
The next Northampton Borough Council meeting will be held Thursday, Feb. 6 at 7 p.m.
(Allen) – 37 units planned, Top of the Mountain Estates (Lehigh) – 34 units planned and Compass East subdivision (East Allen) –45 units planned.
Currently, NASD’s millage rate is 56.27 mills, which is the second lowest school district millage rate in Northampton County. For the average assessed homestead value of $63,000, taxpayers in the district pay approximately $3,545 in property taxes prior to the homestead rebate.
Total revenue for the 202526 school year is projected to be $136.6 million, which is a $6.2 million increase or 4.7% from the 2024-25 budget.
Next, Neiman shared some of the expenditure highlights for the preliminary budget, which include salary costs reflecting contracted labor agreements and new staffing requirements, medical plan costs upwards of $125,000 (mainly for prescription coverage), pension costs based on the December PSERS Board certification over $700,000, charter school tuition costs of $1.4 million, contracted transportation costs over $1.3 million (accounts for new contract), BAVTS estimated and assumes acquisition of “The Factory” and SVSD’s exit from the articles of agreement costing over $700,000, debt service estimating and assuming staffing of five elementary schools and construction costs related to East Allen and Moore elementary schools as well as the George Wolf Elementary HVAC update
costing over $2.3 million.
The majority of the district’s expenditures as reflected in their percentage of the 2025-26 budget include 38% salaries, 25% benefits, 10% debt service, 6% transportation, 5% charter schools, 3% CIU 20, 3% BAVTS, 1% legal/insurance/ audit, 1% utilities and the remaining 8% includes IT network and applications, building and vehicle maintenance, special education placements, NCC, NASD NCA, building budgets, curriculum, public library, budget contingency and all other items.
The preliminary budget expenditures total $142.8 million, which is a $10.9 million or 8.3% increase from the 2024-25 budget.
Neiman also highlighted that there are significant shortfalls in state subsidies regarding special education, transportation and charter schools totaling over $31 million that the local taxpayer must foot the bill for, which inevitably contributes to the higher cost of expenditures.
Net revenue and expenditures reveal a $6,259,264 deficit that the district will need to generate funds for.
Later in the meeting, the board unanimously approved a resolution indicating that they will not raise taxes above the 4.8% Act 1 Index for the 2025-26 school year, so Neiman provided the following initial tax options to generate those funds.
Continued on page 9
NAZARETH AREA
By ANDY WEAVER
The Nazareth boys basketball team lost at Freedom on Jan. 21, then beat Bethlehem Catholic on Jan. 24 for Community/Youth Night. The boys traveled to Northampton earlier this week, and up next will host Easton on Jan. 30 and Liberty on Feb. 3.
The Nazareth girls basketball team beat Freedom on Jan. 21 for Community/Youth Night, then lost to Bethlehem Catholic on Jan. 24. They hosted Northampton on Jan. 28 and up next will go to Easton on Jan. 30 and Liberty on Feb. 3.
The Nazareth wrestling team won at Pleasant Valley on Jan. 22, beat East Stroudsburg South the next day, then defeated Emmaus on Jan. 26. Earlier this week the wrestlers
traveled to Southern Lehigh, and up next will compete at East Stroudsburg North on Jan. 29 and then will travel to Freedom for Districts on Feb. 1.
The Nazareth boys and girls swimming teams beat Northampton on Jan. 21, then beat Central on Jan. 23. Earlier this week the teams competed at Liberty. Looking ahead, the teams will host Southern Lehigh on Jan. 30 and then compete at Easton on Feb. 11.
The following are this year's seniors: Derek Baibi, Jonathan Kayed, Everette Kingsley, Molly Laso, Patrick Leach, Rebecca Perosara, Anthony Quaranta, Veeren Sheila, Kyla Spengler, Lauren Summers and Benjamin Votuszynski.
As a reminder, basketball games and wrestling matches are paid events. Tickets can be ordered online or purchased at the ticket booth. Admission is $6 for adults and $4 for students.
For up-to-the-minute Nazareth sports news, visit https:// nazarethsports.wordpress.com.
Jacobsburg
Environmental
Education Center February
Community Programs
Submitted by LAUREN FORSTER Snowshoes and Hiking Poles Available
When: Monday through Friday, 8:15 a.m. until 3:30 p.m.
Where: Jacobsburg Visitor Center, 400 Belfast Road, Nazareth
proaching and if you are looking for a fun activity to celebrate, come join us. What better way to show your love and appreciation for someone than creating a flower arrangement together? Come with your significant other to enjoy some time together while making a Valentine’s heart. Material and flowers will be provided along with instruction on flower arrangement. The cost to participate is $20 per couple. This is an adult-only couples event; we are not accepting single registrations. Please select "family/ group registration" and provide the information for both people attending. Registration is required. Payment is to be made by cash or check at the start of the event.
Winter Plant Walk for Adults
Borrow snowshoe equipment to use on Jacobsburg’s trails this winter. Snowshoes are available for folks of any age or shoe size, including small children. Snowshoes will not be made available during times of insufficient snow cover, at least 6 inches of snow is required. To borrow equipment, you must provide a driver’s license or other form of state-issued identification. For more information, call 610746-2801 or email jacobsburgsp@pa.gov. You can check our website for current winter conditions and snow depth: www. dcnr.pa.gov/StateParks/WinterReport/Pages/default.aspx. Valentine Floral Arrangements for Couples Friday, Feb. 7 from 6:30-8 p.m.
Valentine's Day is soon ap -
Wednesday, Feb. 19 from 10-11:30 a.m.
Join volunteer Doug Burton on a walk through the woods and fields of Jacobsburg in search of winter plants that provide food for birds and other animals. Learn how to identify plants in winter and enjoy the winter landscape. Dress for the weather and wear comfortable hiking shoes. If we have deep snow, we will walk in snowshoes. This program is for adults only. Registration is required.
Project FeederWatch for Homeschoolers
Friday, Feb. 21 from 9-11:30 a.m.
Practice science by observing wild birds. Homeschool students ages 8-12 years old are invited to learn about birds through observation and experimentation while also contributing to the community science Project FeederWatch. We will observe birds, learn how to use scientific tools and plan our own experiment. Topics to be explored include bird adaptations, survival needs and what birds do in winter. This is not a drop-off event; parents are required to stay with their children for the duration of the program. We will go outside for a portion of the program. Please dress for winter weather with many layers and sturdy shoes. Registration is required for all members of the family who will be in attendance as classroom space is limited. You can view and register for community programs online at events.dcnr.pa.gov/search/event s?order=date&search=jacobsbu rg. If you need an accommodation to participate in a program, please contact the park office at 610-746-2801 or jacobsburgsp@ pa.gov. Interpreters for people who are deaf or hard of hearing are available for educational programs with at least seven days notice.
The Classifieds
ate payment and those having claims or demands against said Estate are requested to make them known immediately to:
David M. Backenstoe, Esquire Attorney for the Estate 148 Main Street Hellertown, PA 18055 (1/30-2/13)
MEETING NOTICE
present the same without delay to
Siding
Fascia & Soffit • No Streaking Shingle. Free Estimates & Fully Insured. Where Service & Quality Counts! PA#089829. 610-837-7508. (1/30)
FIND N SEEK SPONSORS
or email AskUs@HomeNewsPa.
Call 610-262-0764 (2/6)
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)
MILLER SUPPLY ACE HARDWARE Northampton, PA WOOD PELLETS
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. (1/30)
NAZARETH PLATE
GLASS CO., INC. 27 Mauch Chunk St., Nazareth, Pa. Harvey vinyl replacement windows, storm windows & screens repaired, insulated glass, shower doors, plexiglass, mirrors, repairs made at your home. Free estimates. Commercial customers welcome. Call 610-759-3682. Closed Saturdays. (1/30)
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. (1/30)
PHOTOS
The Home News is seeking photos for the February photo of the month contest. The theme is “Winter.” Email your wintry photos to cstroh@homenewspa.com along with your name, description of photo, date and location taken. Deadline is Monday, Feb. 24. The winner will be featured in the Feb. 27 issue of The Home News. (2/20)
WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU!
Do you and your significant other have a romantic, unique or interesting love story? Maybe you have a great story about how you met, are celebrating a big anniversary, had a unique wedding, etc.?
If you’d like to share your story with The Home News readers and possibly be featured in our Valentine’s Day issue, please email askus@homenewspa. com or call 610-923-0382 by Jan. 31. (1/30)
ESTATE NOTICE
Estate of Bernard G. Cherry, late of the Township of Lehigh, County of Northampton and State of Pennsylvania, deceased
WHEREAS, Letters of Administration in the above-named estate have been granted to Joanne Klutzaritz, Administratrix of the Estate of Bernard G. Cherry. 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 Joanne Klutzaritz
℅ 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 (1/16-1/30)
ESTATE NOTICE
Estate of Sterling E. Young, late of the Township of Upper Nazareth, County of Northampton and State of Pennsylvania, deceased
WHEREAS, Letters Testamentary in the above-named estate have been granted to Ronald E. Young, Executor of the Estate of Sterling E. Young. All persons indebted to the said estate are requested to make immediate payment, and those having claims or demands to
Ronald E. Young ℅ 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 (1/16-1/30)
PUBLIC NOTICE REQUEST FOR BIDS
BATH BID REQUEST #202501 (LAWN CARE SERVICES)
Sealed bids (Bath Bid Request #2025-001) will be received by the Borough of Bath at the Borough Office, 121 S. Walnut Street, Bath, Pennsylvania 18014, until 10:00 A.M. on Friday, March 7, 2025, for the supply of Lawn Care Service per the Contract Documents. All bids received will be opened and read aloud at 10:00 A.M. on Friday, March 7, 2025, in the Borough Council Meeting Room at 121 S. Walnut Street, Bath, Pennsylvania 18014. Borough Council will consider and may award the contract at Council’s public meeting on March 10, 2025, at 6:00 P.M. in the Borough Council Meeting Room at the above address.
Specifications, proposal form, and all necessary information are contained in Bath Borough Bid Request #2025-001 and the Contract Documents which may be obtained at the Borough Office between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday except on legal holidays. All bids shall be made on these forms and shall be sealed, properly identified, and delivered in accordance with Bath Borough Bid Request #2025-001.
A certified check or bid bond in the amount of $2,000 shall be included with the sealed bid. The successful bidder must furnish, within 10 days after contract award, a performance bond or cash security valued at 25% of the total contract awarded.
The Borough expressly reserves the right to reject or accept any or all bids and may re-advertise if the best interests of the Borough are to be hereby promoted. The Borough may waive technical defects if, in its judgment, the best interests of the Borough shall so require. No bid may be considered from any person, firm or corporation who has defaulted in the performance of any contract or agreement previously made with the Borough or conclusively shown to have failed to perform satisfactorily such contract or agreement with the Borough.
BY ORDER OF THE BOROUGH SECRETARY
Bradford T. Flynn Borough Manager (1/23 & 1/30)
ESTATE NOTICE
ESTATE OF Robert Clifford Eichlin, of the Township of Williams, County of Northampton and Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
WHEREAS, Letters Testamentary have been granted to Joan Tomminelli Eichlin, Administratrix, all persons being indebted to said Estate are requested to make immedi-
The Lehigh Twp Rec Board will be holding a special meeting on Feb 3, 2025, at 7:00 PM to discuss general business of the Board, The regularly scheduled meeting for February 17th is canceled. The meeting will be held at the Lehigh Twp Municipal Bldg, 1069 Municipal Rd, Walnutport. All meetings are open to the public.
Alice A. Rehrig, Manager (1/30)
School Board
Continued from page 7
Neiman then shared potential districtwide expenditure, program, personnel and capital reductions to cut costs that would help reduce the projected $6.2 million deficit for the 2025-26 budget that the board will weigh in on.
Possible operating budget ($580,000) reductions include reducing the copier fleet to save $36,000 (reduces fleet by 25%, staff inefficiencies with potential overtime grievances), eliminating the staff computer replacement cycle to save $150,000 (dated technology, performance, security, potential cyber attacks and insurance impact), reducing new library content to save $32,000 (dated materials, all grades impacted), reducing instructional supplies to save $50,000 (primarily online teacher instructional tools), reducing art and music supplies to save $25,000 (all grades impacted), reducing school-wide positive behavioral support programs to save $25,000 (primarily field trips and building activities for students), reducing professional development opportunities to save $25,000 (loss of continuing education and staff development), eliminating outdoor field treatment programs to save $15,000 (reduced grounds and athletic field quality), eliminating indoor air quality testing to save $12,000 (non-mandated, delayed recognition of air quality issues), eliminating the gym floor refinishing program to save $10,000 (floor appearance deteriorates), adjusting the districtwide temperature set point to save $100,000 (deviate from 73 degree set point, buildings will be warmer/ colder) and eliminating four bus routes to save $100,000 (increased walking distance for students and parent inconvenience).
Possible programs ($9,860,000) reductions include eliminating student 1:1 devices to save $700,000 (transforms district delivery of curriculum, will need to develop new curriculum approach if chosen), eliminating NASD Cyber Academy to save $900,000 (cybercharter alternative, 168 students impacted, will lead to high cyber-charter costs), eliminating middle school athletics to save $120,000 (230 students and 18 staff members impacted), eliminating middle school band, orchestra and chorus to save $420,000 (400 students and three staff members impacted), eliminating middle school world language to save $560,000 (395 students and four staff members impacted), eliminating elementary music to save $700,000 (all elementary students and 157 staff members impacted), eliminating high school athletics to save $1,500,000 (780 students and 157 staff members impacted), eliminating high school elective courses to save $4,760,000 (all high school students and 34 staff members impacted) and eliminating high school student clubs to save $200,000 (1,000 students and 100 staff members impacted).
Possible personnel ($2,190,000) reductions include no backfill of retiring teachers to save $1,400,000 (higher class sizes and additional workload for existing staff), eliminating substitute custodians to save $75,000
(delayed daily and deep cleaning, nine staff members impacted) and eliminating 10-month building secretaries to save $715,000 (reduced student services, nine staff members impacted, additional workload for remaining staff and potential increased overtime costs).
Possible support organizations ($305,000) reductions include eliminating facilities use by outside organizations to save $25,000 (energy and staff savings, no outside groups allowed to use facilities), eliminating community education programming to save $10,000 (energy and staff savings) and eliminating the public library contribution to save $270,000.
In sum, these potential reductions total $12,935,000 in savings that could address the $6.2 million budget deficit.
The 2025-26 budget timeline will include a preliminary budget vote from the board at the Feb. 10 meeting, which will advise the administration on how to move forward with a potential tax increase and budget cuts. Then, the administration will provide a budget update during the April 14, May 12 and June 16 meetings. The board must also approve the final 2025-26 district budget at the June 16 meeting.
The next Northampton School Board meeting will be held on Monday, Feb. 10 at 6:30 p.m. in the high school auditorium, located at 1619 Laubach Ave.
Do you and your significant other have a romantic, unique or interesting love story? Maybe you have a great story about how you met, are celebrating a big anniversary, had a unique wedding, etc.?
If you’d like to share your story with our readers and possibly be featured in our Valentine’s Day issue, please email askus@homenewspa.com or call 610-923-0382 by Jan. 31.
Bethlehem Chapter of DAR welcomes Public to open House
Submitted by GERALDINE FALK
The Bethlehem Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution invites the public to celebrate America 250! with an open house on Saturday, Feb. 1 from noon until 2 p.m. The celebration will feature guest speakers on Bethlehem during the Revolu-
tionary War. The open house will be held at the DAR Memorial House, located in Rose Garden Park, located on Eighth Avenue between W. Union Boulevard and W. North Street in Bethlehem.
The purpose of this event is to commemorate and celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States by sharing with the public how Bethlehem was part of our nation’s history. This event is made possible by funding received from the Stars and Stripes - America 250! Celebration Grant, sponsored by the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution.
Speakers Scott Gordon of the Sun Inn, and Ted Moyer and Sabrina Moody of Historic Beth-
lehem Museums & Sites will feature Historic Moravian Bethlehem as one of only eight National Historic landmark Districts in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Moyer and Moody will speak at noon, and Gordon will speak at 1 p.m.
Participants will be able to see the inside of the log cabin, a replica of the first house that was built in Bethlehem in 1741. Children attending the event will receive a coloring book featuring American patriots.
“We look forward to welcoming the community to have a glimpse of our area’s part in the Revolutionary War,” says Bethlehem Chapter Regent Geraldine Falk. “We are honored to be a part of the ongoing celebrations of the founding of our nation.”
DAR is a national women’s service organization whose members can trace their lineage to an individual who contributed to securing American independence during the Revolutionary War. Today’s DAR is dynamic and diverse, with over 185,000 members in 3,000 chapters in the United States and abroad. DAR members annually provide millions of hours of volunteer service to their local communities across the country and world. DAR chapters participate in projects
to promote historic preservation, education and patriotism. Over 1 million members have joined the organization since its founding in 1890.
If you are interested in learning more about DAR membership, visit the website at bethlehempadar.wixsite.com/bethlehempadar or contact the Bethlehem Chapter at bethlehempadar@gmail. com.
Bath
Bowling
Bath Industrial Bowling League
Week No. 22 Standings
Would Pub 9
Township, Northampton County, is accepting applications
D&R
Shafer Landscaping - 1 Don Shafer 508(176)
WTF - 3
James
• Once disposal is complete, immediately wash your hands and any non-disposable gloves that were used. Because HPAI impacts more than just wildlife, please also report any sick or dead domestic bird to the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture at 717-7722852. Anyone who isn’t feeling well after having contact with sick or dead birds is encouraged to contact their primary care physician or the Pennsylvania Department of Health at 877-724-3258.
The Crafty Corner
www.survivingateacherssalary. com/valentines-day-pizza-paperplate-craft/
WHAT YOU’LL NEED
2 paper plates
Red, yellow and brown craft paint (washable or acrylic)
Red foam sheet or construction paper
Paint brushes
Black Sharpie marker
Scissors
Hot glue gun and glue sticks
INSTRUCTIONS
Use your scissors to cut the sides off of one paper plate to make a large triangle. Kids can create multiple pizza slices to swap around with their friends and collect if they want!
Paint or color the slanted sides red for the sauce and let dry (use a cool hair dryer for a quicker dry time if you’re using paint in large groups).
Then, paint yellow inside the red outline for the cheese and let it dry.
Next, paint the top brown for the crust and let it dry.
Cut several different sized small hearts from your craft foam or colored construction paper and glue them onto your pizza slice. If you have kids that don’t want to cut hearts out, they can just use circles instead.
Now, glue your pizza slice onto your paper plate and write “You Stole a Pizza My Heart” onto your plate. Bon Appetit! You’re all done!
Suburban Darts
Week 19
Submitted by DAVE CASEY
This week in the Dart League finds St. Paul’s increasing its lead with a “sweep” of Christ UCC by scores of 1-0, 7-0, and 3-1. Leading hitters for St. Paul’s were Kev-
in Gross, Jason Gross 4 for 9, and John Hoysan with a HR, while none of the Christ UCC hitters had more than three hits.
Second place Dryland lost to Star of Bethlehem 5-4 and 3-1 after winning the opener 5-2. Bryan Frankenfield was 5 for 11, Scott Hoffert 5 for 12, with HR’s from Bill Hoke Jr. and Walt Hoffert for Dryland, Nate Phares was 6 for 13, with Earl Sigley and Butch Silfies each going 5 for 13.
In other action, after a 7-4 loss to Ebenezer, Farmersville came back to win 7-6 and 6-2. Leading the way for Farmersville were Sue Grim 6 for 13 (hitting the cycle for the night), Tom George 6 for 14, Gene Grim 5 for 14, and Dennis Koehler with a HR. Paul
Yoder was 9 for 13, Tim Presposh 4 for 9, Carol Voortman 4 for 12 (HR), Charlie Costanzo 3 for 6, with HRs from Jim Voortman, Dennis Wieand and Joe Kish for Ebenezer.
The final match of the night saw Blessed Trinity beating Emmanuel 6-3 and 6-4 in 10 innings, losing the opener 5-1. For Blessed Trinity, Dan Halteman was 7 for 14 (HR), Andy Mickelson 6 for 14 (two HR’s) and Chuck Crisafi added a HR. Tracy Dormida was 6 for 12, Judy Hoffert 5 for 8, with Jack Hill and Bob Bast going 5 for 13 apiece for Emmanuel. W L
*St. Paul’s 36 18
*Dryland 33 21
Ebenezer 33 24
Star of Bethlehem 31 26
Blessed Trinity 28 29
Farmersville 24 33 Christ UCC 20 37 Emmanuel 20 37
*Standings are incomplete
Antique Shows
Continued from page 4
from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is $7 (or $6 with an ad, a card, or a printout of one from www.govwolf.org, Facebook or a stamp from the Chestnut Street show).
Parking is free. For additional information, email ckbh@ ptd.net or call 610-390-0555.
The Chestnut Street Antiques Show is Saturday only, March 1, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. With this being a one-day show and the dealers setting up Saturday morning, you will be sure to find bargains here. Admission is $6 (or $5 with a card, or a printout of one from Facebook, or a wrist band from the Governor Wolf show).
Parking is free. For additional information, email ddh1@ ptd.net or call 610-390-3276.
Don’t miss out on this historic weekend of antique excitement. Mark your calendar now.
Heart-Shaped Strawberry Hand Pies
Ingredients
Pie dough
Strawberry Filling
1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, sliced
½ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon lemon juice
½ teaspoon lemon zest, optional
Strawberry Icing
1 cup powdered sugar
1-2 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon strawberry filling
Instructions
Strawberry Filling
In a large bowl, smash strawberries with a potato masher until coarsely crushed.
In a large pot over medium heat, add strawberries, sugar, lemon juice and lemon zest. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 10-15 minutes or until thickened.
Let cool to room temperature and then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Make sure the filling is completely chilled before assembling the hand pies.
Hand Pie Assembly
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees and line a baking sheet with parchment paper (you may need a second baking sheet).
Lightly flour your work surface and roll out dough to about ¼ inch thick. Use a 3 ¼ inch heart shaped cookie cutter to cut out hearts of dough (re-roll the scraps 1 time).
Lightly brush egg wash around the outside edge of each heart. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of strawberry filling into the center of half of the hearts then top with the remaining hearts, egg wash side down. Press the edges together and then seal by crimping the edges with a fork.
Place the hand pies in the fridge to chill 15 minutes before baking.
Remove from the fridge and light brush the tops with egg wash. Bake at 400 for 18-22 minutes or until the hand pies are golden brown.
Remove from the oven and place on a wire rack to cool. Strawberry Icing
In a small bowl, mix together the powdered sugar and milk, 1 teaspoon at a time, until your desired consistency is reached. Add in a small amount of the strawberry filling to tint the icing pink.
Drizzle the icing over the cooled hand pies and enjoy!
If you have a recipe you’d like to share with our readers, email it to cstroh@homenewspa.com or mail to P.O. Box A, Walnutport, PA 18088.
