Blue Mountain Town & Country Gazette December 15

Christmas is almost here and when it comes to Christmas, there is a lot to celebrate; everything from religious history to family traditions. On the less serious side, there are also so many elves (maybe more than you realize) and so many desserts!

First up, let’s talk elves, specifically, Christmas Elves. Those are the spritely helpers of Father

Christmas (Santa Claus) who in general spend much of their time sorting the mail to see who wants what and building the presents. In the final ramp-up to Christmas they also keep a busy schedule popping up around the World to see exactly who’s being naughty and who’s being nice. You’ll get all the details in “The Secrets of Christmas Elves.”

There are other Christmas secrets as well, including historic secrets – or at least little-known facts – about some of our favorite holiday desserts. We will give you a sampler of those facts, as well as a recipe for a delicious dessert in “Classic Christmas Desserts.”

The Blue Mountain Town & Country Gazette is published the first and third Thursday of the month. The Gazette does not assume responsibility for an ad beyond the cost of the ad itself; we cannot be responsible for typographic errors. We reserve the right to reject any article or advertisement thought to be offensive or not contributing to the needs of the community. Signed letters will be printed at the discretion of the editor. News items and ads should be submitted by 4 p.m. on the deadline date, located on the bottom of the front cover. Business Hours: Call for an appointment

This holiday season many of us are getting back to doing some in-home holiday entertaining of friends and family. I know I cut back on that the last couple of years and I’m feeling a little out of practice on throwing a party. If you’re feeling a little rusty in that regard be sure and read “Holiday Entertaining Tips and Shortcuts.” You’ll get some excellent ideas that will cut the stress of planning your holiday gathering and should help you enjoy your party even more. Here’s the sneak preview “big-picture” tip: Prep as much as you can in advance and keep it simple.

Now before our next issue comes out, we will all be stepping into a brand new year. A year we all hope will be more peaceful and tranquil around the world I’m sure. There are many challenges. A serious, though much less serious challenge for many is how to make New Year’s resolutions and stick to them. In case you need some help with that we found a great blog entry that lays out a clear roadmap for how to get that done. Read

Paul and Lisa Prass - Publishers

By John Hall for Blue Mountain Town & Country Gazette

It’s Christmastime

Continued from page 3

“2023: Sticking to Your Resolutions” for all the details.

We wish everyone a warm and wonderful holiday season. We look forward to seeing you next time for our very first issue of 2023 that will focus on the New Year and also, the new you. Merry Christmas!

Historic Christmas Ornaments

SOURCE: christmashq.com (edited)

Decorating the Christmas tree is one of the most cherished holiday traditions around the world. Families gather together each year, pull out boxes of beloved Christmas ornaments, and make memories together. Many of these ornaments and memories have formed the basis for traditions passed down from generation to generation.

The History of Christmas Ornaments

The idea of decorating a tree for Christmas began in Germany, where they used to add fruits and nuts to trees once the leaves fell off to symbolize the promise of spring to come. But in 1605, a fir tree was brought inside and adorned with paper roses, candles, nuts, and fruits. From there, the idea of decorating a tree indoors took off and spread across the country.

In the 1800s, German immigrants brought the tradition to America and gave it their own interpretations. Early ornaments were made out of whatever items families had available to them – fruit (especially apples), nuts, strings of popcorn and cranberries, paper streamers, candles, and metal foil.

Fun fact: Even before Christmas lights were invented, people added bits of foil to the tree to reflect the light in the room and make the tree sparkle.

Traditional Ball Ornaments

The many round ornaments we use to decorate our trees also originated in Germany. A man named Hans Greiner started making glass ball ornaments (called baubles) during the 1800s, making them the first manufactured Christmas ornaments. In the late 19th century, the enterprising F.W.

Woolworth brought the idea to America, where he sold more than $25 million worth per year.

The Christmas Star

The Christmas star that is perched on top of many trees and hung on branches has religious origins. When Jesus was born in Bethlehem, there were three magi (or wise men) who saw an unusual star in the sky. They knew it would lead them to baby Jesus, so they followed the star all the way to the stable where Jesus lay in a manger, bringing gifts of gold, incense, and myrrh. The star that is used to decorate trees today is representative of the original Star of Bethlehem.

Candy Canes

Another German Christmas tradition is the use of candy canes on the Christmas tree, which originated around 1670. Designed to help children sit still during Christmas services, the candy was shaped like a “J” to represent the crooks of the shepherds that visited baby Jesus.

Fun fact: The original candy canes had no flavoring or color and were essentially just “sugar sticks.”

Angels

Many people use beautiful, ornate angels to decorate the top of their tree or to hang intermixed with other ornaments. These, too, have religious connotations. They can represent the angel that appeared in Bethlehem to announce the birth of Jesus, the angel Gabriel who told Mary she would give birth to Jesus, or even the idea of angels watching over us and protecting us.

Contemporary Christmas Ornaments

In many cases Christmas tree ornaments today have come to represent the interests of each individual family. For example, many families collect ornaments throughout their travels as visual memories of where they’ve traveled. Others purchase customized ornaments with the year of anniversaries, births, or other milestones engraved or stamped on them.

Whether representing a family’s individual interests or historic religious origins, decorating a Christmas tree with ornaments carries family traditions forward and creates new memories year after year.

Holiday Entertaining Tips and Shortcuts

SOURCE: Various

We are now fully into the holiday season. Hopefully you are looking forward to great times with friends and family, and maybe even some fun holiday gatherings in your home. For the latter, after all the decorations are up, it really comes down to the food and everything running smoothly. Here are a few holiday entertaining tips and shortcuts that can really smooth things out and save you time when entertaining.

1. KEEP IT SIMPLE

Keeping it simple is easier said than done. When it comes to hosting a gathering in your home if you can go into your planning telling yourself to keep everything simple and easy, it will help so much to keep the stress level down as you prepare for and enjoy your gathering.

To start, set everything up that you can a couple of days ahead. That way you can make sure you have everything you need, including your shopping list. Set up your beverage bar with glasses and your tables or buffet with serving dishes (without the food).

Getting the layout done will help you think through how everything will work at the actual party. This is usually where you catch any issues, which gives you plenty of time to work out the details. It’s a big stress reducer to get all that prep work done a couple of days ahead.

2. MAXIMIZE SPACE

Whether you’re setting up a holiday buffet or simply setting out food on your kitchen table, you can maximize space using multi-tiered serving

stands. Large platters can use up your surface space quickly, but multi-tiered stands create different levels of serving space giving you more area to work with for your food.

3. KEEP THE FOOD EASY AND GOOD

When it comes to hosting, serving food that you can make ahead, or better yet buy pre-made can save you a lot of time.

4. MAKE IT EASY FOR GUESTS TO HELP YOU

There are several ways your guests can be a big time-saving help when hosting a party. If you set up a self-serve bar/beverage station with everything your guests will need to make a drink including lemons and limes, they’ll make their own – you won’t have to do a thing!

Another great way guests can help is to bring something to the party. Most guests are uncomfortable arriving empty-handed, so asking them to bring something like their favorite holiday treat can be a huge help. The best part is that you won’t need to worry about making desserts and your guests will love sampling everyone’s holiday favorites.

5. ENJOY YOURSELF

If you can keep your gathering simple, do as much of your setup ahead of time as you can, and keep the food easy and good, you have the perfect recipe for saving a lot of time and creating a stressfree holiday gathering for everyone to enjoy –including you.

And one more tip: If you’re not using disposable cups, plates and utensils, and you don’t have a dishwasher that you’re able to load dirty dishes straight into, have a bucket or large plastic pan set aside filled with warm soapy water. Dishes go in and even if you don’t get to them that night, they’ll be ready to be washed when you do have a minute.

Bottom Line: Be sure you create a gathering you can enjoy just as much as your guests do.

Food Bank Donation

St. John's Lutheran Church 40 Second Street, Slatington PA Soup and Sandwich

Sale

Pick-up is Saturday, January 21, from 9:00 to 11:00 A.M.

Deadline to order is Sunday, January 15.

Soup choices (quart-size) are: Halupki (Stuffed Cabbage) Soup ($7.00 each); Old-Fashion Chicken Noodle Soup ($7.00 each); and Seafood Bisque ($8.00 each).

Sandwich choices are: Grilled Chicken Ranch on a Kaiser Roll ($6.00 each) and Roast Beef French Dip Sandwich ($6.50 each).

On Saturday, December 3rd, a $4,000 donation was made to the Northern Lehigh Food Bank. The donation was made jointly by the ownership of the Walnutport Dunkin’ and Dunkin’s Joy In Childhood Foundation. The donation capped off a fun Customer Appreciation Event!

You can call your order into the church office at 610-767-6361; to Harrison Williams at 610-216-4284, or e-mail your orders to Harrison at williamshj2514@msn.com.

submitted by Jeff Rosa, Dunkin’ Owner

Classic Christmas Desserts

SOURCE: Various

When we think about sitting down to Christmas dinner, we may think about tables overflowing with delicious desserts. But did you know some of the classic desserts have been around a very long time? Fruitcake, for instance, which people either love or hate, actually originated in Roman times. It wasn’t until the 1500s when sugar became less expensive that the British realized they could preserve fruit longer if they soaked it in sugar. That led to fruit cakes similar to what we know today.

Yule log

The yule log is another traditional Christmas dessert that technically dates back to before the Middle Ages when Europeans would feast together to celebrate the end of winter. They would burn logs decorated with holly and ivy – Yule logs.

In the 1600s the “Yule Log” became a cake and in the 1900s Parisian bakers made the cake exceptionally popular. It’s been a holiday staple ever since.

Sticky Toffee Pudding Cake

One very delicious holiday dessert – a British classic – is the “sticky toffee pudding cake” that just might be worth a try this holiday season. This recipe is courtesy of melskitchencafe.com. The prep time is 35 minutes, the cook time is 30 and it yields 8 servings.

Ingredients Cake:

• 6 ounces dates, pitted and finely chopped dates

• 3/4 cup boiling water

• 3/4 teaspoon baking soda

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 3/4 cup granulated sugar

• 6 tablespoons butter, softened

• 2 large eggs

• 1 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Sauce:

• 3/4 cup packed light or dark brown sugar

• 1/2 cup butter

• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream

• Pinch of coarse kosher salt

• 1/4 to 1/2 cup chopped pecans, optional

• Additional heavy whipping cream for drizzling, optional

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly grease 6 to 8 ramekins (about 6 ounces each) with butter or cooking spray or lightly grease an 8X8- or 9X9-inch pan.

2. For the cake, in a medium bowl, stir together the dates, boiling water, baking soda and vanilla extract (see note for alternate method). Let the mixture sit for 15 minutes.

3. In a separate medium bowl, cream together the granulated sugar and butter with an electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer) until wellcombined and fluffy, 2-3 minutes.

4. Add the eggs and mix.

5. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder and salt.

6. Add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients,

and mix until just combined.

7. Fold in the date mixture (no need to drain) until combined; don’t overmix.

8. Fill the ramekins evenly with the batter, about 2/3 full, or spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan.

9. Bake the ramekins for 18-22 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the top springs back to the touch (if using a square baking pan, bake for 22-25 minutes

UPDATE: increase baking time as needed, some have needed upwards of 40 minutes). Don’t overbake or the cake may be dry.

10. Let the cakes cool completely in the pan(s) – although the cake can be served slightly warm also.

11. For the sauce, combine the sugar, butter, cream, and salt in a saucepan. Stir over low heat until the sugar dissolves and the sauce is smooth and combined, 5-7 minutes.

If the cake was baked in ramekins, turn out onto individual plates (if baked in a pan, cut the cake into squares). Pour the warm sauce over the individual servings, and sprinkle with pecans, if using, or drizzle with a teaspoon or so of heavy cream – optional, but very delicious!

In a matter of days Christmas will arrive. Many stories and traditions are associated with Christmas. One is the tradition of Christmas Elves. You have probably heard of them, but do you know who

The elves are known to be tiny, people-like creatures, either male or female, with pointed ears. They are youthful but immortal and are said to live underground, in forests, or in springs and wells, but no one really knows because they keep

Centuries ago, in the pagan times, Scandinavian people believed that elves guarded their homes against evil. If you were good, the elves were good to you, but

friends and helpers of Father Christmas (Santa Claus). That was when they became known as the "Christmas Elves."

Merry Christmas from

Elf Responsibilities

Some elves take care of Santa's reindeer and keep his sleigh in good condition, ready to fly through the skies on Christmas Eve. Others help Santa keep his naughty-and-nice list in order, and some guard the secret location of Santa's village.

In the days leading up to Christmas, elves also make sudden appearances to keep an eye on all the children in the world to see which of them are

behaving well and which are not. The elves are believed to be Santa's secret agents and report their findings back to him for the naughty-and-nice list.

Location of Santa’s Village

It was once thought the elves lived in Father Christmas' (Santa's) village at the North Pole. However, in 1925 it was discovered that there are no reindeer at the North Pole but there are a lot of them in Lapland, Finland. Obviously, Santa has reindeer.

So since 1925, it is believed that there is a secret village with a secret passage, somewhere in Lapland, where Santa, his wife and his team of elves live. No one has actually seen the village, but people believe it is somewhere on the Korvatunturi mountain in the Savukoski county of Lapland, Finland, which is on the FinnishRussian border.

The Core Team of Elves

Many elves help Santa design toys and process requests from children that are sent to them by snail mail or email. That said there is also a more management level of elves helping Santa. They are:

1. Alabaster Snowball / Administrator of the Naughty & Nice list

2. Bushy Evergreen / Inventor of the magic toymaking machine

3. Pepper Minstix / Guardian of the secret of where Father Christmas' village is located

4. Shinny Upatree / The oldest friend of Santa and cofounder of the secret village in Lapland

5. Sugarplum Mary / Head of the Sweet Treats, also known as Mary Christmas, and

6. Wunorse Openslae / Designer of Father Christmas' sleigh and responsible for its maintenance.

These are the top-tier elves. But all elves associated with Christmas are symbols to remind children to be nice, not naughty.

9 Ways to Beat the Christmas Blues

1. Socialize and Think Positively!

When a person is feeling blue or depressed, often the last thing they want to do is be around others or socialize. The fact is, however, when we are feeling blue or down, if we choose to isolate ourselves and hold up in our room or home, we will tend to focus on the same mental tapes that are causing us to feel down in the first place! If you will force yourself to call a friend and meet for coffee, a movie, a walk, a talk – anything to get out and change your atmosphere, the chances are

good that will have a good effect on changing your mood for the better. For all but those who have a severe depression problem re-quiring a doctor’s help, try and remember, we are what we think. Our thoughts can propel us into ecstasy or into the depths of the blues. And most of us have control over our thoughts. It takes being conscious of them, and it takes practice. Remember: We are always at choice as to thought, actions, etc.

2. Do Something Just for Yourself!

Be totally selfish here. Think of something you want to do for yourself… a short trip, a manicure, a haircut, buying yourself the coat or scarf you have been wanting. It does not have to be extravagant or costly. The point is you are being good to yourself, and that will sink in, and a part of yourself will say, “Gee, I deserve this, and things aren’t so bad after all.” This is not going to necessarily get to the root of what caused you to feel down or blue, but it will make you feel better long enough that maybe you can put the cause in a different perspective, or simply not take it as seriously.

3. Give Something to Another Person

One of the best ways we can get beyond our

own physical and emotional self is to find something bigger than our own familiar problems upon which to concentrate! Think about your friends, relatives, the poor people in your church, or the local charities. Pick a person or cause that appeals to you and decide to give to that person or that cause. It can be your time or money, a toy, or whatever. Giving to others makes most people feel good in their heart. Feeling good in our heart can have a great impact on how we feel in our mind and body. It is the thought and the symbolism. The gift may be small, but the thought is all. You will feel better!

4. Rent or Go See a Happy/Funny Movie

Laughter has long been a quick and effective panacea for ills of all kinds. Medical studies show that it creates endorphins (body hormones that act as natural pain killers as well as mood elevators) as well as red blood cells and t-cells (the good cells which make up a part of the body’s auto-immune system and help us fight disease). When we laugh we also force our mind (although there is not any real struggle) to change modes and to be up and to feel up, not down or blue or depressed. We substitute our own thoughts and feelings for those of the people on the movie or television screen. Watching an hour long comedy where we laugh and take our mind off our daily problems can last for hours or days as far as re-ducing chronic pain,

a blue mood feeling, etc. It is cheap, easy, and if we allow it to be it is fun!

5. Volunteer Your Time

One of the best ways we can help pull ourselves out of feeling sorry for ourselves, or feeling blue, or concentrating on our own aches and pains, is by helping other people who have problems of their own … often much more severe. Jobless families need a “leg up” right now. World Vision, Samaritan’s purse and a host of other organizations need your help. Giving time to others is a very good way to get outside of our own situation. Every city has volunteer bureaus and other places that need help, even if it is for an hour a day or a week! Giving to others will come back to us many times over in positive ways if we allow ourselves to try it. Of course, minister safely and observe guidelines for contact with others.

6. Get Out of the Past and Into The Present!

Most bad moods and mental attitudes are a result of what has happened to us in the past. This can be the recent past, or long ago. It is vital to your body and energy and life as a whole that you stay in the present with your thought and feelings. The past is over! Hanging onto old hurts, pains, anger, etc. will do you much harm emotionally and physically over time. We can choose to focus on Continued on page 53

Mrs. Santa came to visit the Slatington Public Library on Friday, December 2nd. Mrs. Santa greeted the children and read several stories about Christmas. Her visit ended with each child receiving a present and a snack, and then it was time to move on to the arrival of Santa Claus and the tree lighting at Veteran’s Park in Slatington. The library would like to thank Mrs. Santa, and we look forward to seeing her next year.

St. Peter’s UMC Events

Submitted by Sharleen Crossett

From our Family to yours, may Christ remain at the fore front of your daily life, remember that you are loved by the one that created you. May you have a Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year. We invite you to come out and hear our Advent series of services which is “Be Born in Us Today.” We invite you to come out and join us Sunday mornings at 9:30 am for Sunday School for all ages groups. Worship begins at 10:30am. Communion is observed the first Sunday of the month. Christmas

Eve service will be at 7pm, and Christmas day the worship service will be at 9am. Food Truck Thursday, will be back in April 2023. The Monday morning Bible Study at 11am is doing the study “Case for Heaven” by Lee Strobel Grief Share” meets on Tuesday morning at 10am, at the Helping Hand Community Center of Slatedale, located at 4019 Main Street, Slatedale. If you are interested in participating contact Pastor Bill. The Helping Hands Community Center of Slatedale, is a ministry of St. Peter’s Church. Wednesday mornings the Pastor alternates between “The Palmerton and Sacred Heart by the Creek in Northampton for a time of worship with the residents. If you would like to fellowship with the residents and have a time of worship midweek, contact Pastor Bill for the schedule and time. On Friday’s join Pastor Michelle with “Moments with Kids“4pm. Find this on our facebook.com/StPetersChurch18080. The time for EDGE is 6pm. They meet on Monday evenings, for youth in 6thgrade and up. For more information, please contact Kristin at 484-550-2578. The group

Continued on page 20

Second Harvest of Lehigh Valley and the Northeast Announce donation From Wells Fargo to help

During the holidays

submitted by Briana McGonagle

Wells Fargo surprised representatives from Second Harvest of the Lehigh Valley and Northeast Pennsylvania with a $50,000 donation today to assist the organization with its ongoing efforts to address food insecurity in the region. The grant will provide 300,000 meals for Lehigh Valley residents and is in addition to the $10,000 Wells Fargo previously donated to Second Harvest in 2020.

“We are acutely aware of the strain that the pandemic has put on families across the Commonwealth and here in the Lehigh Valley,” said Mike Pany, Wells Fargo Community Relations Senior Consultant. “This donation is a small way that we can help support our community and ensure that no family in our region has to worry about meeting the most basic need of putting food on their tables during the holidays.”

Continued on page 10

meets at the Helping Hands Community Center of Slatedale located at 4019 Main St, Slatedale. Please note NO School means NO EDGE. Our monthly clothing ministry “The Redeemers Closet” is open on the 3rd Saturday of the month from 9am -Noon, at the Helping Hands Community Center of Slatedale located at 4019 Main St. Slatedale. See you on December 17th, come and check out all the new clothing.

boxes are now open for donations of gently used clothing only NO toys, etc. Please do not leave clothing outside of collection boxes. If clothing gets wet, we must throw it away. Your cooperation is appreciated. In all areas of the church’s ministries, we continue to praise God for his blessings both large and small. If you have a need, please contact Pastor Bill at 610-737-1450 to see if help is available. Whether you are looking for a place to worship or would just like to participate in our church activities, you can always contact Pastor Bill at 610-737-1450, or check out our website: stpetersumcemerald.org.

TOUCH OF DUTCH

Submitted by Larry Gradwohl

Die Grischtdaag Gschicht: Lukas 1:26 – 56 Die Verkindiching; die Maria bsucht die Elizabeth; es Magnificat 26 Im sechs Monet iss der Engel Gabriel gschickt warre vun Gott zu en Schtadt in Galileeye,wo Naazrett gheese hot. 27 Er waar gschickt zu en leddich Maedel, as nie net gschlofe ghatt mit ne Mann. Sie waar verschproche zu ne Mann, as Joseph gheese hot. Er waar vun der Noochkummenschaft vum Daavit, un der Maedel ihre Naame waar Maria. 28 Der Engel iss zu ihre kumme un hot gsaagt, “Ich gries dich wo hoch aagsehne iss, un wo gseegent iss unnich Weibsleit. Der Herr iss mit dir.” 29 Wo sie ihn gsehne hot, waar sie verschrocke bei was as er gsaagt hot, un hot gewunnert ferwas as er so gschwetzt hot zu

ihre. 30 Un der Engel hot gsaagt zu ihre, “Farich dich net, Maria, fer du hoscht Gnaad gfunne bei Gott. 31 Un harich moll, du zehlscht en Soh in die Weld bringe, un du sollscht sei Naame ‘Yesus’ heese.

32 Er zehlt hoch uffghowe sei, un zehlt’s Kind vum Heechschde gheese sei; un Gott der Herr gebt ihm der Keenich-schtuhl fun seim Vadder, der Daavit,

33 Un er zehlt Keenich sei iwwer’m Haus vum Yacob ewichlich, un sei Keenich-reich zehlt ken End hawwe.”

John, Sarah, Bruce, Glenn, Mik e, Fran

Touch of Dutch

Continued from page 21

34 Un die Maria hot gsaagt zum Engel, “Wie kann des sei, deweil as ich ken Mann hab?” 35 Awwer der Engel hot gsaagt zu ihre, “Der Heilich Geischt zehlt uff dich kumme, un die Graft vum Alle-heechschde zehlt iwwer dir kumme. Darrich sell zehlt sell heilich Kind, wo gebore watt, Gottes Soh heese. 36 Un harich moll, dei Cousin, die Elizabeth, wo schunnt alt iss, un wo ken Kinner hawwe hot kenne, zehlt aa en Kind hawwe. Sie iss schunnt in ihrem sechsde Monet. 37 Bei Gott iss nix unmeeglich.”

38 Noh hot die Maria gsaagt, “Ich bin em Herr sei Maad, loss es sei zu mir, wie du gsaagt hoscht.” Noh hot der Engel sie verlosse.

39 Noh an sellre Zeit hot die Maria sich gerischt un iss gschwind in en Schtadt gange in de Hiwwele vun Yudieya. 40 Datt iss sie in’s Haus vum Zecharias gange un hot die Elizabeth gegriesst. 41 Un wo die Elizabeth die Maria gheert hot, iss es Kind in ihrem Leib getschumpt; un die Elizabeth waar gfillt mit em Heiliche Geischt. 42 Un sie hot gsaagt mit re laude Schtimm, “Gsegend bischt du unnich alle Weibsleit, un gsegend iss die Frucht vun deim Leib. 43 Un fer was iss es gewwe zu

mir, as die Mudder vum meim Herr zu mir kumme sett? 44 Fer harich moll, wo ich dei Schtimm gheert hab, iss des Kind in meim Leib getschumpt mit Freed. 45 Gsegend iss sie, wo geglaabt hot, as des, was der Herr gsaagt hot zu ihre, follfillt warre soll.”

46 Un die Maria hot gsaagt, “Mei Seel dutt der Herr hoch uffheewe,

47 un mei Geischt freht sich iwwer Gott, meim Heiland.

48 Fer er hot acht ghatt fer die Deemiedichkeit vun seinre Maad, un haricht, vun nau an zehle die Leit mich gsegend heese.

49 Fer daer, wo mechdich iss, hot grosse Sache geduh fer mich, un sei Naame iss heilich.

50 Un sei Barmhaerzichkeit iss fer immer un immer uff selle, wo Farricht hen fer ihn.

51 Er hot mechdiche Sache geduh mit seim Aarem, un er hot die ausenanner gschtroit, wo hochmiedich im Hatz sin.

52 Er schtoost die Mechdiche vun ihre Keenichschtiel, un heebt die uff, wo deemiedich sin.

53 Er hot die Hungeriche uffgfillt mit gude Sache, un hot die Reiche fatt-gschickt unne ebbes.

54 Er hot sei Knecht, die Kinner vun Israel, gholfe, un hot net vergesse ewichlich barmhaerzich sei

55 zum Abraham un sei Noochkummenschaft, graad wie er gsaagt hot zu unsere Voreldre.”

56 Un die Maria iss bei der Elizabeth gebliwwe fer baut drei Monet, noh iss sie widder zerick heemgange.

The Christmas story: Luke 1: 26 – 56 The Birth of Jesus Foretold; Mary Visits Elizabeth; Mary’s Song of Praise

26 In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, 27 to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin’s

Continued on page 60

Benjamin

Coloring Page

Favorite Christmas Movies

With Christmas right around the corner, it's beginning to feel like the most wonderful time of the year. The winter mornings are bright and crisp, Christmas music fills the air, and decorated trees are everywhere you turn.

Favorite Christmas Movies

Everyone loves a good Christmas movie! But which films are people watching? That's when things get a little more complicated. Whether it's "Home Alone" or "Love Actually," everyone has a soft spot for specific Christmas classics.

The Polar Express

"The Polar Express" was a book before it became one of the world's most famous Christmas movies. The award-winning picture book was created by the same author and illustrator of "Jumanji," which also spawned multiple film adaptations. After reading this picture book to his kids year after year, Tom Hanks was inspired to adapt this household staple for the big screen. When asked why he decided to purchase the film rights, Hanks expressed his love for the story and the illustrations, describing it as an "elegant, simple, but complicated, sophisticated story about what Christmas means to each and every one of us."

The movie was released in 2004 and made history by becoming the first feature-length movie to use performance capture for all its characters. Hanks ended up voicing multiple characters in the film, including Hero Boy, his father, Santa Claus, and the narrator. Hero boy is also voiced by two other actors, including "The Hunger Games" actor Josh Hutcherson. The film creator, Zemeckis, includes many Easter eggs from his life throughout the movie, including the address of his childhood home.

Elf

Whether you are an adult or a young child, "Elf" is a modern holiday classic beloved by many. While the 2003 film is best known for Will Ferrell's iconic comedic performance, Buddy was almost played by a different actor: Jim Carrey. While the screenwriter had Carrey in mind when writing the script, Ferrell ultimately snatched up the titular role. The actor's delivery of the character was so laugh-out-loud hilarious that Ferrell even managed to make "The Godfather" star James Caan break on occasion.

Even though "Elf" is famously set in New York City, the majority of the film was shot in Vancouver. That said, Favreau did try to shoot on location

whenever possible, which included scenes shot at Rockefeller Center, Central Park, and Central Park West. Interestingly enough, some of the sets were also built in an abandoned mental hospital, a facility that hosted other film and television productions, including "Jennifer's Body" and "Final Destination 2."

Even though there have been many requests for an "Elf 2," Ferrell has refused to reprise this famous role. "I just think it would look slightly pathetic if I tried to squeeze back in the elf tights: Buddy the middle-aged elf," the actor joked to USA Today. Not even an offer of $29 million was enough to sway Ferrell. Maybe one day!

The Santa Clause

Directed by John Pasquin, "The Santa Clause" has been a massive holiday hit since it premiered in 1994. In the decades since its release, it has transformed from being a Disney comedy to a Christmas classic. Similar to "Elf," the creators behind "The Santa Clause" had a slightly different vision for the film from the get-go. For one, the original script was much darker than the final film

Continued on page 30

Board

Certified Family Physicians Offering Personalized Care For Your Entire Family Certified Medical Examiner for CDL-DOT Physicals

Favorite Christmas Movies

Continued from page 29

turned out to be. In the actual movie, Santa dies because he slips and falls off Scott Calvin's roof after Scott startles him. But in earlier drafts, Santa falls off the roof because Scott shoots him with a shotgun.

The role of Scott Calvin/Santa Claus was originally written for Bill Murray but eventually went to Tim Allen. Allen scored two MTV Movie Award nods for his role, including nominations for Best Breakthrough Performance and Best Comedic Performance. The success behind "The Santa Claus" ultimately led to two sequels, "The Santa Claus 2" and "The Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause," which premiered in 2002 and 2006, respectively.

The Holiday

If you are a fan of romantic comedies, then you most likely hold a special place in your heart for "The Holiday." Directed and written by Nancy Meyers, the same creator behind "The Parent Trap," Meyers knew that she wanted to cast Jude Law, Cameron Diaz, Kate Winslet, and Jack Black in the 2006 film after she finished writing the script. Meyers fell in love with Black's character after seeing his performance in "School of Rock." While Black was hesitant about being in a romantic comedy, he was sold on the part when he knew his on-screen love interest would be Winslet. When the "Titanic" star spoke about acting beside Black she said, "Trust me, it was not difficult to fall in love with Jack Black. At all."

Due to her connections in Hollywood, Meyers convinced many people to make cameos in "The Holiday," including Dustin Hoffman. Originally, Hoffman was never supposed to make a cameo in the Blockbuster scene, but he was coincidentally having lunch near the film shop's set and stopped by when he saw the cameras. On the spot, Meyers asked if he wanted to make a small appearance,

and he said yes.

The website that

use for the exchange is real.

Slatington Library News

submitted by Louise Bechtel

Holiday hours for the library are: Closed Sat. Dec. 24 and Mon. Dec. 26, Closed Sat. Dec.31 and Mon. Jan. 2. Tues. Dec 27th, Wed. Dec. 28th, and Fri. Dec. 30th hours will be 9:00am to 3:00pm.

The Book Club is currently reading. “The Christmas table” by Donna Van Liere. They will be discussing it at the January meeting. The Book Club will be meeting at 1:00pm, zoom only, for the months of January and February. If you are interested in joining the book club, please contact the library.

The Library is looking to start a Teen Advisory Board. If you are a teen and wish to get involved, please call or stop in the library for more information.

Library hours are currently Mon. & Wed. 9am to 7pm, Tues. 9am to 3pm, Fri. 9am to 5pm, Sat. 8am to 2:00pm. The library is closed Thursday and Sunday.

Any questions concerning this information please contact Louise Bechtel at the Library at (610) 767-6461. Thank you.

Thanksgiving Day DriveThru Dinner A Huge Success

submitted by Sharon Kuntz

On Thanksgiving Day, St. John's UCC, 15 South Second St, Slatington, served 346 meals, (90 were delivered to shut-ins). This was a record breaking event!

We want to thank all of our members and church friends who had any part in making this year’s dinner drive-thru a huge success. This could never have occurred without all of your help.

Much of the food and cash was donated by local businesses – namely The Buttered Crumb, Crystal Spring Dairy Farm, GIANT Food Stores, Mr. Bill’s Poultry Market, Sam’s Club, Thomson’s Meat Market, Valley Pizza and Weis Markets.

The free-will donations on Thanksgiving Day and the excess money after expenses was donated to the Northern Lehigh Food Bank. We should all be very proud of our efforts and Christian giving to our community.

Thank you everyone for all of your support!!

If you are ever interested in doing a house swap like Iris and Amanda, you can!

they

SOURCE: gaiam.com (edited)

Chances are at some time in your life, you’ve made a New Year’s resolution – and then broken it. This year, stop the cycle of resolving to make change and then not following through. If your resolution is to take better care of yourself and get healthy, you will have a much better year if your

resolution sticks. Here are ten tips to help you get started.

1. BE REALISTIC

The surest way to fall short of your goal is to make your goal unattainable. For instance, resolving to never eat your favorite food again is setting you up to fail. Instead, strive for a goal that is attainable, such as avoiding it more often than you do now.

2. PLAN AHEAD

Don’t make your resolution on New Year’s Eve. If you wait until the last minute, it will be based on your mindset that particular day. Instead, it should be planned well before December 31st arrives.

3. OUTLINE YOUR PLAN

Decide how you will deal with the temptation to skip that exercise class or have that piece of cake. This could include calling on a friend for help, practicing positive thinking and self-talk, or reminding yourself how your “bad behavior” will affect your goal.

4. MAKE A “PROS” AND “CONS” LIST

Even Santa needs a little

keep

motivation strong. Develop this list over time, and ask others to contribute to it. Keep your list with you and refer to it when you need help keeping your resolve. 5.

TALK ABOUT IT

Don’t keep your resolution a secret. Tell friends and family members who will be there to support your resolve. The best-case scenario is to find a buddy who shares your New Year’s resolution and motivate each other.

of chocolates if your resolution is to eat a better diet. Instead, celebrate your success by treating yourself to something you enjoy that doesn’t contradict your resolution. If you have been sticking to your promise to eat better, for example, reward yourself with new fitness clothing or by going to a movie with a friend.

7. TRACK YOUR PROGRESS

Keep track of each small success. Short-term goals are easier to keep, and each small accomplishment will help keep you motivated.

Continued on page 34

Resolutions

Continued from page 33

Instead of focusing on losing 30 pounds, focus on losing the first five. Keep a food journal to help you stay on track, and reward yourself for each five pounds lost.

8. DON’T BEAT YOURSELF UP Obsessing over the occasional slip won’t help you achieve your goal. Do the best you can each day, and take one day at a time.

9. STICK TO IT

Experts say it takes about 21 days for a new activity to become a habit and six months for it to become part of your personality. It won’t happen overnight, so be persistent and patient.

10. KEEP TRYING

If you have totally run out of steam when it comes to keeping your resolution by mid-February, don’t despair. Start over again! Recommit yourself for 24 hours. You can do anything for 24 hours. The 24-hour increments will soon build on each other and, before you know it, you will be back on track.

What are your New Year's resolutions?

Coloring Page

Friends of Logan

Four-year-old Logan Jack Stokes, son of Adam and Ivelisse Stokes, passed away on May 24, 2022, at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Beginning at birth, Logan’s parents, family, doctors, medical staff, and a caring community put forth a powerful effort to keep him healthy, happy, and strong. Logan also put forth an equal effort, however, with little improvement. He was placed on a wait list for a double organ transplant that never materialized. (Twenty people die every day in America waiting for an organ transplant). Logan was playful and happy, despite being connected to supportive medical equipment. This did not deter him from being an active little boy.

At the funeral it was obvious to all that letting go was going to be very difficult for Logan’s friends and family. The only comfort realized was that for the first time in his life, Logan was free from cords

leading to medical equipment. The friends of Logan, however, were not ready to let go. They were determined to have Logan’s essence continue in the form of care for others. They organized a charity golf event at Allentown Municipal Golf Course and raised $7,500.00. The money was donated to the Krysta Hankee Memorial Fund. Why this particular family service organization? The KHMF helped Logan’s parents with transportation costs related to the many trips they made to Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. The Krysta Hankee Memorial Fund also paid the cost of a trip to St. Louis, Missouri, for Logan’s specialized evaluation and service. Logan’s family also received a tremendous amount of support from Logan’s father’s workplace. Logan’s family

The Schirer sisters, (L to R) Brenda, Sharon, and Cindy, who is sitting on Santa’s lap at Lloyd’s Lunch in Berlinsville. The restaurant was once located at Route 248 and 946 intersections. The photo was taken December 1960.

Remember When photos by William “Becky” Beck

Friends of Logan

Continued from page 37

and friends created the “Friends of Logan” initiative to recognize and pay forward the love and care that was given to Logan. Their $7,500.00 donation to the Krysta Hankee Memorial Fund will provide approximately 50,000 miles of travel for Lehigh Valley families traveling far and wide to address critical needs. “Friends of Logan” have truly used their grief as a foundation to deliver goodness to many families they may never meet.

About Logan

Logan Jack Stokes was born at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia with a condition called Hypoplastic left heart syndrome. He was scheduled to receive the Norwood procedure, which is 3 heart surgeries over the space of 3-5 years to help remedy his condition. Unfortunately, Logan had complications and by the time he was 18 months old, had been through 5 surgeries. This brought on another condition called Pulmonary Vein Stenosis which is in-curable. His only chance of survival was to have a heart and lung transplant. Logan was on the transplant waiting list at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia for 14 months. Further evaluation concluded he would not survive the surgery due to a high number of compromised veins. His medical team made the difficult decision to remove him from the list.

Following this, Logan had a second opinion at St. Louis Children’s Hospital in Missouri. Their insurance would not provide medical transportation so they bought a bigger car, rented an oxygen machine that would work for long trips and set off. After 2 weeks of assessments, it was decided that Logan would not make it through the surgery.

Logan’s family then returned to the Lehigh Valley and comforted him with loving care. From the time that Logan had Pulmonary Vein Stenosis, he received stents every 3 months to keep his veins open for as long as possible. Unfortunately, Logan became very sick again in November, and spent the last 7 months of his life in the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.

Logan had to spend over 50% of his 4-year life in the hospital. He was on oxygen support from 4 days old and also on a feeding machine. His parents would work from the hospital and stay in Philadelphia or drive back home every day. Logan is sorely missed by all who knew him. “Friends of Logan” are proud to remember him by helping others.

Christmas at the Shelter

J&J Coins in Palmerton is once again sponsoring “Christmas in the Shelter.”

We will be making our 10th annual visit to the Carbon County Animal Shelter on Christmas Eve. Each year we deliver a wrapped toy for every dog at the Shelter along with other needed supplies. Anyone interested in making donations may drop them off at J&J Coins before 12 Noon on Saturday, December 24th.

Needed items include: Canned and Dry Food, Rawhides, Treats, Bowls, Leashes, Collars, Harnesses, Bleach/Detergent/Cleaning Supplies, Paper Towels, Towels and Blankets, Etc. Merry Christmas from J&J Coins!

Myster Tree and Shrub Service

Liza’s House Dedicates Buddy Bench at Lehigh Elementary

Submitted by SUSAN SALVESEN

In honor of the opening of Lehigh Elementary School in Cherryville, the staff at Liza’s House Personal Care Home in Danielsville dedicated a Buddy Bench in memory of long-time resident Mary Z., who was a buddy to all. A Buddy Bench is placed on the playground for children who feel lonely or bullied. Sitting on the bench signals to other children that they need a friend to play with or someone to talk to. Under the supervision of Mr. Michael Frohnheiser, the Student Council of Lehigh Elementary School and Principal Peters accepted the bench for the student body.

Kendall Snyder

The Woman’s Club of Slatington is pleased to announce that Northern Lehigh High School senior Kendall Snyder of Walnutport has been chosen as their Girl of the Month for November. Kendall is the daughter of David Snyder and Jen and Paul Warnken. She has a sister Kylee Snyder. Her activities include Secretary of the Leo Lions Club, Officer of SADD Club, Student Council, and Winter/Spring Track and Field. She is a student in the Emerging Health Professionals program. Her future plans include attending a four-year university to major in a branch of science. She plans to pursue a career in the Forensics field. Congratulations, Kendall!

Caitlin Kirk

The Woman’s Club of Slatington is pleased to announce that Northern Lehigh High School senior Caitlin Kirk of Slatington has been chosen as their Girl of the Month for December. Caitlin is the daughter of Jessica and Robert Kirk. She has a sister McKenna. Her activities include sports writer and photographer for The Slate, Leo Lions, National Honor Society Treasurer, Varsity Girls Soccer, and Track and Field. In her free time, she loves karate and has trained for 14 years, achieving her 3rd-degree adult black belt. Her future plans include obtaining a master’s degree in chemical engineering to pursue a career in a lab environment. Congratulations, Caitlin!

With the whole family gathered around the tree, unwrapping presents and sharing laughter and cheer, chances are that your furry family member will be right there to join in the festivities. But, with everyone distracted by the gift giving and new toys, your pet might find the perfect opportunity to get into a bit of trouble.

Once your critters catch the Christmas spirits there’s no telling what they’ll do! Make sure that

you keep your pets safe this holiday season by remembering these simple tips!

Chances are that your Christmas tree will be the centerpiece of all of the festivities this year, but can also be a huge temptation for your dog or cat! Shiny tinsel, bright lights and tennis ball shaped ornaments might prove hard for your furry friends to resist, so make sure that you hang them out of reach. Some adventurous kitties may still try to pounce on the tree, so leaving something like crinkled aluminum foil or a bottle full of small items can create noises to warn of impending

dancer. Also, if you have a live tree, be sure to pick up all of the fallen needles; they can really irritate your pet’s tummy if ingested!

A tree isn’t the only holiday plant that poses a risk to your pet’s health and safety. Holly, mistletoe and poinsettia plants are poisonous to dogs and cats, so be sure to keep them out of reach!

It might be wise to double-check any electrical decorations, inside and out. Tape the wires to the wall to avoid your furry friends getting caught and making a mess!

When the time for opening gifts arrives, make sure that you have a garbage bag close by to toss away paper, string and tape as soon as its disguise is no longer needed.

If you’re having a lot of visitors come over for the holiday, it may be best to keep your pet in a comfy room with some water… at least until all of the commotion settles down. You might even want to brush up on obedience training before your guests arrive; we wouldn’t want Grandma to get knocked over by a big, puppy hug! It’s also important to let your guests know not to feed your pets any table food. While some items aren’t necessarily harmful to your cat or dog, you wouldn’t want them to eat too much and spend the rest of Christmas tending to their tummy ache!

Christmas Blues

creating a positive and healthy present for ourselves, or dwell in the past, creating anxiety, depressed moods, anger, guilt, etc. Do you want to live your life in the present or live it based on the past onto which you are still hanging? Let old hurts and pains and anger go! Doing so will free up all kinds of positive energy and your body and mind will have a chance to be much healthier as a result.

7. Walk to Cheer Up Walking is prescribed by many doctors to help depression. Maybe your finances are what have you down in the dumps. If that is the case, drive to the closest mall and walk and just look in the windows. Buy an orange freeze or soda, sit on a bench and watch the people and the children. Realize that every person you see has their own problems, and has days when they are blue or down. Some may feel much worse, and even be clinically depressed. Taking action fights the blues and the funk one feels by sitting or lying down at home brooding indulging in self-blame or pity. Remember misery loves company? Well, at a mall you can be assured you have hundreds if not

thousand of men and women who have felt or are feeling just as bad or worse than you at the very time you are there! You are not alone. Life will go one … things can get better. You must make the choice to help make them better.

8. Call or Skype Someone You Like Who Is a Positive Person and Chat

The idea here is to get out of yourself, and have some interaction, and hear about someone else’s life and take your mind off your own stuff for a while. It’s okay to let them know you are feeling a bit low or down, and if they ask, you can briefly

tell them what is going on. But, ask them about their life and job and family, etc. Get involved with someone else, and your mind will take a turn as well. Let them talk about their life and current situation. The more you listen to them and talk about things other than your own current situation, the better the chances are your mood will lift and you’ll feel better after connecting in times of isolation.

9. Meditate or Listen To Relaxation or Ministry Resources

Meditation can be a very good way to change your mood. It works whether you are depressed/ down, or anxious/hyper. We suggest taking a course or getting good quality tapes which teach meditation and prayer. It is amazing what it can do to quiet down the mind and release the stress caused by both anxiety and depressed feelings. Abide and Pray are both relaxation apps as well as self-affirmation. Louise Hay and Wayne Dyer are two of the most well known authors of books and tapes on health issues, specializing in “positive thinking” and how they affect our physical and emotional health. They can be found in most bookstores, or on the Internet. The investment in these tapes is quite small compared to the benefits they can give the user.

Contact 610-264-5652

Christmas Eve Services

Holy Trinity Lutheran Church

4118 Main St., Slatedale

Christmas Eve Services: Candlelight Communion 8 p.m. Lead By Pastor Scweitzer

Christ U.C.C.

309 Main St., Walnutport

Christmas Eve Services 3 p.m. & 7 p.m. Christmas Day Services 10 a.m.

Christ’s Church at Lowhill

6910 Country Spring Road., New Tripoli Christmas Eve

Old Fashioned Sing Along 5:15 p.m. Lights of Wonder Indoor Light Show 5:45 p.m.

Traditional Candle Light Service 7 p.m.

Bethany Wesleyan Church

675 Blue Mountain Drive, Cherryville

Saturday Dec. 24, 4 & 6 p.m. Saturday Dec. 25, 11 a.m.

Bethany Wesleyan Church

1122 Fairyland Road, Lehighton

Friday, Dec. 23, 6:30 p.m. Saturday Dec. 24, 4 p.m.

Bethany Wesleyan Church

457 Delaware Ave.,Palmerton

Saturday Dec. 24, 4 p.m.

Friedens U.C.C.

7227 Route 873, Friedens December 24, Prelude Music 6:35 p.m.

Christmas Eve Cantata and Candle-lighting Service 7 p.m. December 25 No Service

Salem Church

4145 Forest Inn Road, Palmerton

Christmas Eve Candlelight Service 5 p.m.

Salem

United Methodist Church

1067 Blue Mountain Dr. Danielsville

December 24 Candlelight Service 7 p.m. December 25 Service of Carols & Christmas Message 9:30 a.m. Coffee & Donuts Following

Touch of Dutch

Continued from page 23

name was Mary. 28 And he came to her and said, “Hail, O favored one, the Lord is with you!” 29 But she was greatly troubled at the saying, and considered in her mind what sort of greeting this might be. 30 And the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. 31 And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus.

32 He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Most High; and the Lord God will give to him the throne of his father David, 33 and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever; and of his kingdom there will be no end.”

34 And Mary said to the angel, “How shall this be, since I have no husband?” 35 And the angel said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore, the child to be born will be called holy, the Son of God.

36 And behold, your kinswoman Elizabeth in her old age has also conceived a son; and this is the sixth month with her who was called barren. 37 For with God nothing will be impossible.”

38 And Mary said, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.

39 In those days Mary arose and went with haste into the hill country, to a city of Judah, 40 and she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. 41 And when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit 42 and she exclaimed with a loud cry, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! 43 And why is this granted me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? 44 For behold, when the voice of your greeting came to my ears, the babe in my womb leaped for joy. 45 And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfilment of what was spoken to her from the Lord.” 46 And Mary said, “My soul magnifies the Lord, 47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, 48 for he has regarded the low estate of his handmaiden.

For behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed; 49 for he who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name. 50 And his mercy is on those who fear him from generation to generation.

51 He has shown strength with his arm, he has scattered the proud in the imagination

of their hearts, 52 he has put down the mighty from their thrones, and exalted those of low degree; 53 he has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent empty away.

54 He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy, 55 as he spoke to our fathers, to Abraham and to his posterity forever.”

56 And Mary remained with her about three months, and returned to her home.

Footnotes

1. Luke 1:28, Other ancient authorities add “Blessed are you among women!”

2. Luke 1:35, Other ancient authorities add of you after the words, child to be born.

3. Luke 1:45 Or believed, for there will be, instead of, believed that there would be.

[The Dutch translation is from the Amish Bible translated out in Ohio. I have respelled the words using the Buffington/Barba spelling system, as is normal for my articles. For those of you interested grammar, the Amish do not always use the dative case where one would expect it. I changed those words where I noticed it; you may find some I missed! Also note that to designate the future tense, they use the word, zehle, ‘shall’ in English.

The English version is from the original RSV translation.

Hallicher Grischtdaag zu eich all! Merry Christmas to everyone!]

CLASSIFIEDS

NOTICE TO CLASSIFIED ADVERTISERS: ALL CLASSIFIED ADS MUST BE PAID FOR BEFORE PUBLICATION. This means you must send your payment with your ad when placed by mail, pay for your ad when placed in person at the office, or mail your payment to reach our office before we go to print if your ad was faxed or called in. If payment is not received BEFORE press time, your ad will NOT be included in that edition of the Gazette. HOW TO USE OUR CLASSIFIED SECTION: Mail your ads, with a check for $10 per ad (up to 25 words), to T&C Gazette, 255E S. Best Ave., Walnutport, PA 18088, or call in your ad to 610-767-9600 Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. OR fax anytime to 610-767-9612. PRICING: $10 for first 25 words; $15 for 26-45 words; $20 for 46-65 words; $25 for 66-85 words; $30 for 86-105 words; $35 for 106-125 words. NOTICE: 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.

Events

The annual organizational meeting for Lehigh Township will be taking place on Tuesday, January 3, 2023, at 7:00 p.m. At this meeting, the Board appoints individuals to serve on the following Boards and Commission: Zoning Hearing Board, Planning Commission, Municipal Authority, Recreation Board, and First Regional Compost Authority. Individuals who are interested in serving on any of these Boards are encouraged to submit letters of interest to the Supervisors, 1069 Municipal Road, Walnutport, 18088, and attend the January 3 meeting.

For Sale

Christmas treats 5 dz Cookie tray $25.00 Kiffles or Nut tossies $7.50 dz Cut outs $4.00 dz Cream cheese cupcakes or peanut butter blossoms $3.75 dz Chocolate chip, peanut butter, oatmeal raisin, sugar or snowballs $3.25 dz Cake pops, chocolate lollipops, pretzel rods and peppermint bark! Call Mom’s Kitchen to order 610-392-1843. Berlinsville area. (12/15)

Apples, Cider, Eggs, Honey, Potatoes, Pa. Maple Syrup and Deer Apples. Emerald Cider Mill 610-767-8304 (1/5)

Help Wanted

Christian Daycare in Cherryville is hiring a part-time afternoon infant teacher and a full-time toddler assistant teacher. Please email maryl@bethanywes.org or call 610-767-1910 for details. (12/15)

Full-Time Public Works

Employee Lehigh Township is seeking multi-skilled applicants to fill a position in the Public Works Department. Candidates should have experience in the construction

field and be comfortable working with various equipment and power tools. Pesticide spraying license and PennDOT flagger certification a plus. Duties include, but are not limited to routine road maintenance (including earthmoving and paving work, building repairs and maintenance, park maintenance, and snow and ice removal. Must be available for emergency call out. Must have HS Diploma or equivalent. Must possess a valid PA driver’s license in good standing with minimum of CDL Class B endorsement; Class A preferred. Candidates are subject to preemployment Drug and Alcohol testing as well as random drug and alcohol tests if employed. Starting rate $20 per hour with competitive benefits. Residency within 10 miles of Municipal Complex a plus. Application forms are available at the Municipal Building or on the website, www.lehightownship.com. Applications can be submitted to Lehigh Township, 1069 Municipal Road, Walnutport, Pa. 18088. Applications will be accepted through January 7 or when the position is filled. (12/15)

Interior House Cleaning : every other week. 2 - 3 hour job. Cherryville, Pennsville Area. Call 610-767-0277 (12/15)

Real Estate for Rent

Apartment Slatington: New 2 bedroom, spacious, eat-in kitchen, living room, bathroom with linen closet, one-piece tub shower. NO PETS and no smoking, W/S/G included. $650 + utilities, security required. Call 610-390-8691.

Slatington Hotel: Clean, safe, quiet, nicely furnished rooms, $140-$250/week. Private and shared bathrooms. Color TV and cable incl. Up-charge for A/C and

on-premise parking. Internet avail. Furnished effic. apts also available. 610-577-0898. (12/15)

Services Available

Service: Saw Chain, Mower Blades, Scissors, Knives, Clipper Blades, Carbide Tip Saws, and much more. 4728 Mountain Rd. Slatington. 610-248-7988. (12/15)

Sergey Tile & Marble: 25 years experience, we work with ceramic tile, porcelain tile, granite and marble tile. We also offer bathroom remodeling. Call 484-794-0756 or 215- 669-5032 (12/1)

Tim's Sharpening Service: Let me take care of your sharpening needs. Circular saws, carbide circular saw blades, planer blades, scissors, electric hedge fence trimmers, lawn mower blades, axes, chisels, chain saws, etc. Call 610-767-5171 or 610-751-6182 (12/15)

Now picking up unwanted scrap metal, house hold appliances, air conditioners, farm equipment, lawn tractors, etc. Also metal clean outs, sheds, barns, garages, etc. Also trailer and mobile home tear downs. Leaf cleanups, hedges pruned. Fees may apply. Call 610-751-9251 anytime. (12/15)

Master Electrician since 1987. No job too small. Reasonable prices. Free quotes. Todd Haring.484-951-8624. PA#093516 (12/15)

Don Hartwig Sharpening

3 Daughters Construction 20

A-1 Towing Service 20

A&A Limo 33

AF Boyer 40

Aaron Kromer...................................... 13

All Air Solutions .................................... 8

All American Tree Service 39

Amey’s Clean Rite 8

Amey’s Garage 64

Amy Hillborn 39

Appalachian Auto Care 14

Bachman Fuel 16

Balloons by Robin 32

Barry Hausman

Custom Kitchens. .................... 24

Beacon 443 54

Bean Bath Cafe 31

Bechtel’s Pharmacy 30

Becker Homes 58

Becky’s Drive-in 7

Bethany Wesleyan 57

BHHS Benjamin Real Estate .............. 23

Blue Mountain Chimney Sweep ........ 43

Blue Mountain Evergreen 12

Blue Mountain Fish & Game 2

Boom Mowing 50

Burger King 48, 56

Car Doc 23

Carey & Schnalzer Quality Meats 43

Caring Dam Hearts ............................... 9

CBD American Shaman ..................... 24

Century 21- Ryon RE 17

Chris & Eli Family Restaurant 20

Christman’s Septic Service 15

Citizen’s Fire Co. 44

Country Clippers 25

Diamond Fire Co. 24

DR Plumbing ....................................... 15

ESYC Bingo ............................................ 2

Everett Chiropractic 16

Family Practice 29

Friedens Church 21

Friedens Fire 50

George G. Bensing

Funeral Home, LLC 21

Grace Naomi Boutique ....................... 22

Great Metal Recycling ......................... 14

Harding Funeral Home 26

Heidel Hollow 33

Imperial Auto Sales & Service 42

Indian Creek Armory 53

J&J Coins 10

Jack Follweiler’s Garage 18 Jennifer Smith 13

JMY Construction ................................ 58

Joe’s Battery ........................................ 44

Klecknersville Rangers 18, 58

Koehler Bros 56

Kushy Boutique 18

Kyle’s Kars 58

Larry’s Antiques 5

Lehigh Valley Granite 50

Lehigh Valley Scoopers ...................... 25

Lehigh Valley Spinal ........................... 49

Lehighton American Legion 46

Lincoln Manor 14

Liza’s House 16

ADVERTISER INDEX

Lorah’s Farm Market 14

LT Lions-Lioness 40

Mack’s Tree Service 59

Miller Supply 13

Mint Home Improvement ................... 45

Mobile Home Parts Center ................. 51

Mountainside Construction 63

Mountainside Pizza 53

Myster Tree 40

Nancy's Therapeutic Massage 2

Neff’s Masonry 15

Neffs National Bank 32, 40

New Tripoli Bank ................................. 23

North Summit Climbing Gym ............ 34

Nulton Diagnostic & Treatment Center 47

Perfect Balance 44

Richard B. Ryon 55 Roosevelt Demo Club 17

Salem Church - Aqua. 63

Salem UMC 22

Schisler 52

Scoopendorf’s Ice Cream 45

Silfies Fuel 41

St. John’s Lutheran - Slat. ................... 7

Sule’s Collision Center ........................ 48

Sylvia Merkel RE 34

Ted’s Roofing 9

Tim Smith - Flea Market 58

Tony’s Garage 11

Tony’s Hobby Shop 56

Tri-Boro Container 50

Tri-Boro Fencing.................................. 41

Two Wheelz Mens Pedicure ............... 56

W.Neff Auto Sales 6

Walnutport Door Co. 10

Werner Eyes of the Valley 32

Womer Memorials, LLC 39 Zephyr 54

This issue’s Sudoko answers