Blue Mountain Town & Country Gazette October 3 by Innovative Designs & Publishing, Inc.

It’s All About More

More savings, including $0 monthly premiums on many plans. More benefits, with prescription drug coverage and PPO plans. And more choices, with a wide network of physicians in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, plus $0 primary care visits.

Enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan from Jefferson Health Plans by December 7th! Call 833-973-6517 8am-8pm, 7 days a week, or visit JeffersonHealthPlans.com/Medicare today.

Jefferson Health Plans contracts with Medicare to offer HMO, HMO-DSNP, and PPO plans. Our HMO-DSNP also has a contract with the Pennsylvania State Medicaid program. Enrollment in our plans depends on contract renewal.

Y0170_MCE-810MG-6065.A_M

Timeless Truths for Today’s Living

October 6-12, 2024

Starting at 7:00 p.m.

The Kingdom of Heaven is Like...

Sunday: “Get Your Go Bag Ready!”

Monday: “You Are Invited”

Tuesday: “When Heaven Bursts Out In Joy”

Wednesday: “A Son Who Left and A Son Who Stayed”

Friday: “The Great Wedding Invitation”

Saturday: “A Tale of The Wise and the Foolish”

All Are Welcome

No Registration Required

Child Care available for ages 3-8

For More Information: 610-767-8939

Walnutport Seventh-day Adventist Church Route 145 and 227 Willow Road

Walnutport, PA 18088

Pastor Mark Piotrowski, D.Min.

Plumbing, Heating and “Spirits”

By John Hall for Blue Mountain Town & Country Gazette

– “all ears.” Normally, those noises are just the sounds of your house or apartment creaking as it cools down or heats up. But other times, those noises should actually really scare you. In “Strange Plumbing Sounds in the Night” we tell you about the gurgle, banging and dripping noises that should really get you out of bed.

If you like to be around the paranormal, be sure and also read “Some Lehigh Valley Haunts” for insights into the “spirited” haunts you can easily find throughout the Valley. From Bethlehem to Allentown and Easton and just about every small hamlet in between, there is no shortage of haunting going on. Hauntings that are not staged for the Halloween season, but the real deal.

Welcome to our plumbing and heating issue. Of course, this finds us in October, which is also the month for Halloween “spirits.” We’re going to take a look around and see where we might find those spirits – in the plumbing, or otherwise. To start, have you ever heard “bumps” in the night or “clangs” in the night? Those can sometimes make a person go from fully asleep to fully awake

THE BEST OF NORTH CATASAUQUA

Of course in the autumn and winter months, we’ve probably all been “haunted” by high heating costs. In “Fall Heat and Energy Conservation Tips” we give you a handful of worthwhile tips for holding the line on those costs – tips that can really save you money across the colder months. We show you how to reduce your heat and energy costs by doing everything from using the sun’s passive heat, to LED holiday lights and much more. If you expect your heat and energy costs to rise in the cold months ahead, you want to read

Autumnfest & Car Show

THE BEST OF NORTH CATASAUQUA

Autumnfest & Car Show Show

Autumnfest & Car Show

Presented by: North Catasauqua Betterment Committee

Autumnfest & Car Show

Presented by: North Catasauqua Betterment Committee

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 13TH

Autumnfest & Car Show

Presented by: North Catasauqua Betterment Committee

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 13TH

RAIN DATE – SATURDAY, OCTOBER 19TH

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 13TH

Paul and Lisa Prass - Publishers

Kathy Marsh - Associate Publisher

10:00 AM to 4:00 PM

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 13TH

RAIN DATE – SATURDAY, OCTOBER 19TH

10:00 AM to 4:00 PM

Sara Reitz - Account Executive

North Catasauqua Park, 701 Grove Street

RAIN DATE – SATURDAY, OCTOBER 19TH

Donna Bachman - Accounting Manager

North Catasauqua Park, 701 Grove Street

FOOD COURT * CRAFT & FLEA MARKET

10:00 AM to 4:00 PM

Tony Pisco - Art Director

FOOD COURT * CRAFT & FLEA MARKET

Live Music – Flirtin’ with the Mob

North Catasauqua Park, 701 Grove Street

Kids Activities – 11:00 to 3:00

* Balloons the Clown – Show at 1:00 PM

* Pumpkin decorating and crafts

Kids Activities – 11:00 to 3:00 FOOD COURT * CRAFT & FLEA MARKET

Live Music – Flirtin’ with the Mob

* Pumpkin decorating and crafts

* Balloon twisting

* Bounce house

* Balloon twisting

* Bounce house

* Police Department Child ID & Fingerprinting

* Balloons the Clown – Show at 1:00 PM

* Bounce house

* MUCH MORE THE BEST OF NORTH CATASAUQUA

* Police Department Child ID & Fingerprinting

* Pumpkin decorating and crafts

* MUCH MORE

* Police Department Child ID & Fingerprinting

* Balloon twisting

* MUCH MORE

* Bounce house

* Police Department Child ID & Fingerprinting

* MUCH MORE

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

without the consent of the publishers.

Now interestingly enough, in the colder months, even though it is colder, you might still want to lower the temperature on your thermostat to save money – especially when you’re away from home or sleeping. Just don’t lower it too much! We explain why in “Lower the Temps, Don’t Freeze the Pipes!”

And lastly, in this issue’s “Short Getaway:…” article, we invite you to ride the haunted rails in Strasburg, PA to experience haunted tales and the area’s beautiful fall scenery. In “Short Getaway: Strasburg Haunted Rails and Tales,” we explore the history of the Strasburg Rail Road and information on their “Haunted Rails” train trips throughout the month of October.

So that is our first issue for this month. Please join us next time when we take a look at some scary (but tasty) Halloween delights, as well as physical therapy and its benefits for arthritis sufferers, and then an even deeper dive into some of the ghostly adventures you can find from Jim Thorpe to Philadelphia. See you then!

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

Experience

Knowledge

Commitment

4. Accomplishments

Real Estate For Rent

Slatington Hotel: Clean, safe, quiet, nicely furnished rooms, $110-$150/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. 732-3099671. (12/19)

Fall Heat and Energy Conservation Tips

ABZOLUTE ENTZ. A-Z Chimneys, built, cleaned, repaired, relined! New Stoves, etc. 570-325-5727 (4/18)

SOURCE: www.energy.gov (edited)

The following tips will save you money and energy while staying comfortable during the cool fall and cold winter months. Many of these tips can be used on a daily basis to increase your savings; others are simple and inexpensive actions you can take to ensure maximum savings through the winter.

Egyptian Sands Motel: Room for Rent: Private bath, maid service, all utilities included, clean, quiet, safe, $195/week or $635/month, call 610-262-8050 for details. (3/21)

3 bedroom house for one to three adults only. pets. Swamp Hollow Road, Slatington. $800 per month. Call 610-767-5454. (3/21)

Apartment for rent Danielsville Half double. 3 bedroom, 1 bath, $1250 per month. Includes heat, electric, water, sewer and garbage. Washer/dryer hookup. Off-street parking. In-ground swimming pool. Call 610-417-9568. (3/21)

the plastic is sealed tightly to the frame. You can also install tight-fitting, insulating drapes or shades on windows that feel drafty after weatherizing.

Adjust the Temperature

Don Hartwig Sharpening Service: Saw Chain, Mower Blades, Scissors, Knives, Clipper Blades, Carbide Tip Saws, and much more. 4728 Mountain Rd. Slatington. 610-248-7988. (12/19)

Use Heat from the Sun

SWM, 53, clean, healthy, and financially secure seeks romantic female 35-50 for dating, friendship, companionship. Any race OK. Call Joe at 484-719-0704 24/7, leave message, will return call. (3/21)

Adjusting your thermostat for different times of the day is proven to reduce heating costs by as much as 10% across the year. A programmable thermostat can make it easy to set back your temperature. Just be sure that you are comfortable at the temperature selected. Also, make sure the temperature is comfortable for your pets.

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 (4/4)

Open curtains on the south-facing windows during the day to allow sunlight to naturally heat the home, and close them at night to reduce the chill from cold windows.

If you have a heat pump, maintain a moderate setting or use a programmable thermostat specifically designed for use with heat pumps.

Find

and Seal Leaks

Seal air leaks around utility cut-throughs for pipes, gaps around chimneys and recessed lights in insulated ceilings, as well as unfinished spaces behind cupboards and closets.

Maintain Heating Systems

Do you have broken A/C or that you don't want to pay to have removed? If so, please call 610-737-5119 to schedule a free pick-up and removal. Items must be easily accessible. (10/3/19)

Schedule routine service for home heating systems, replacing furnace and heat pump filters once a month or as needed. Regularly clean the flue vent of wood and pellet burning heaters and clean the inside of the appliance with a wire brush periodically to ensure that it is heating efficiently.

HAM AND DANDELION

Be certain to plant deciduous trees on the southfacing side of the home, especially in proximity to windows. They will let light and warmth come through the windows during the winter after the leaves have fallen, and will shade the windows in the summer.

DINNER HAM AND DANDELION DINNER

Cover Drafty Windows

SATURDAY, APRIL 13

Use a heavy-duty, clear plastic sheet on a frame or tape clear plastic film to the inside of window frames during the cold winter months. Make sure

St. John's Lutheran Church 40 Second Street, Slatington

Seatings at 4:00, 4:45, 5:30, 6:15, & 7:00 P.M. (Take-out orders also available)

Menu: Baked Ham, Chopped Dandelion with Bacon Dressing, Mashed Potatoes and Gravy, Vegetables, Bread & Butter, Homemade Desserts, Coffee, Tea, Iced Tea, & Water

Tickets: Adults – $10.00, Children (6-12) – $4.00, Children 5 and under – Free

Call church office at 610-767-6361 for tickets.

Mountain Town & Country Gazette

Fireplace Heat Loss

Keep the fireplace damper closed unless a fire is burning. Keeping the damper open is like

keeping a window wide open during the winter. When using the fireplace, reduce heat loss by opening dampers in the bottom of the firebox (if provided) or open the nearest window slightly –approximately 1 inch – and close doors leading into the room. Lower the thermostat setting to between 50° and 55°F.

If the fireplace is never used, plug and seal the chimney flue. Check the seal on the fireplace flue damper and make it as snug as possible. Also, add caulking around the fireplace hearth.

Lower Water Heating Costs

Keep the temperature of your water heater to the warm setting (120°F). This will not only save energy, it will also help avoid scalding.

Lower Holiday Lighting Costs

Finally, use light-emitting diode (LED) holiday light strings to reduce the cost of decorating the home for the winter holidays. Find manufacturers and brands that offer ENERGY STAR® certified decorative light strings.

Lehigh Township resident hunters, Mike Chimics, Lester Beers, Clifford Spadt and Russell Nicholas stand near the Berlinsville Slate Quarry in the 1930s showing their harvest after small game hunting.

Lower the Temps, Don’t Freeze the Pipes!

SOURCE: www.energy.gov (edited)

You often hear about how you should turn down the thermostat to save energy on heating, and there are a slew of helpful ideas on the subject. You can turn the temperature down in your house in the winter, especially when you're out and when you're sleeping, and you can save about 1% on your energy bill per degree Fahrenheit you turn the thermostat down.

As exciting as this may seem, before you turn the temperature down too low, keep some things in mind. Save energy – yes! Saving energy is good. But please, please think of your pipes before you go too crazy with the idea.

Avoid Frozen Pipes

Frozen pipes are a big deal. If the water in your pipes starts freezing, you run the risk of that pipe exploding, and that's definitely not what you want to have happen in the dead of winter.

What you will need to do is very much based on the region where we live. If you’re not sure what to do, consult PA’s website for recommendations on how to prepare your house for the winter. There are relatively few places in the United States where you'd never have to worry about frozen pipes and we certainly do not live in one of them.

•sponsored by the Allentown Stamp Club $$ in door prizes! 12+ dealers, 25 tables Saturday, July 13, 2024 Saturday, October 26, 2024

According to Weather.com, even southern states generally start having issues with frozen pipes when the temperature reaches about 20 degrees Fahrenheit. That’s because houses in the south are less likely to be built with pipes located inside or in the warm areas of the home.

Here in our region, where it does get below freezing, you'll need to know some things about your house or apartment. In addition to where you live, you have to consider the temperature

you set your thermostat to. To avoid pipes freezing depends on where your pipes are located, what material they are made of, and how well insulated those pipes are. This is why you don't want the temperature inside your house to drop too low, because bathroom and kitchen pipes are generally not insulated, and they rely on whatever system you're using to heat the rest of your house to keep warm.

If You Rent

If you rent, ask the owners if they require tenants to keep the thermostat above a certain temperature. Some landlords do and they may also ask you to consider leaving the taps dripping on the harshest weather days and nights.

These are all good reasons to be careful with the temperature on your thermostat. But don't forget the rest of your pipes – some of your water pipes may be in colder parts of your house, like crawl spaces or attics, that don't get any of your home's heat and may, in fact, be subjected to air directly from outside. You may want to insulate those pipes to improve your energy efficiency, cut heating costs, and avoid burst pipes.

Just remember that your pipes are vulnerable and frozen pipes are a pain. If you own your home, always consider how your house is built before you make any drastic decisions on how to set the temperature in the winter.

Short Getaway: Strasburg Haunted Rails and Tales

SOURCE: www.strasburgrailroad.com

For this issue’s “Short Getaway…” suggestion, we invite you to head to Strasburg, Pennsylvania to experience its historic railroad located in one of Pennsylvania’s top tourist destinations. The Strasburg Rail Road offers a fleet of turn-of-thecentury locomotives and authentically restored passenger cars that will provide you with an experience that will be hard to find anywhere else.

Based in Strasburg, Pennsylvania – a Norman Rockwell-esque small town in the middle of bucolic Pennsylvania Dutch Country – the railroad is the oldest continuously operating railroad in North America and the most visited heritage railroad in the continental United States. Chartered in June 1832, the Strasburg Rail Road began serving the community of Strasburg when covered wagons and canals were still commonplace.

Using Walnutport as a starting point, Strasburg is about an hour and forty minutes southeast. The railroad’s area of operations, known worldwide for its picturesque “Amish Country” also made some of the most important contributions to our nation’s early transportation system. The Conestoga wagon came from this area and the idea of the steamboat came from the mind of native son Robert Fulton. The area also hosted some of the earliest and largest canal systems during the antebellum period. By the 1820s, Lancaster was in a position to play a leading role in the creation, development, and productivity of the nation’s railroad system.

Ride the Haunted Rails

Today, local folklore, fables, and phenomena

come alive for a unique steam train experience during Strasburg Rail Road’s Haunted Rails & Tales railroad event, with stories based on the published works of author and storyteller Matt Lake. Lake will serve as the ghostly host of Haunted Rails & Tales as he guides guests through the weird, eerie, and spooky tales of Lancaster County and its environs.

Lake is a natural performer and storyteller, having appeared in film, on television, and on stage as an actor, host, and interview subject. He is the author of several books, including Weird Pennsylvania and Weird Maryland.

Haunted Rails & Tales features a professional cast of actors who have performed around the world with companies such as Royal Caribbean Cruises, Broadway Asia, Celebrity Cruises, and Live Nation Concerts. They’ve also performed locally in the region at Lancaster’s American Music Theatre, Sight & Sound Theatre, Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre, and the historic Fulton Theatre.

Mr. Lake will personally appear at the Strasburg Rail Road on the following dates in October: October 5/6, 11/12, 24 and on Halloween itself, October 31.

A pre-boarding performance will start 15 minutes

before departure. If you decide to make the trip to ride the haunted rails, you should plan to arrive early for check-in and then enjoy the pre-boarding performance at the “town square stage” before your rail journey begins.

Please note: Due to the subject matter of this event and its presentation, this event is recommended for ages 8 and older. This show may contain fog, strobe lights, and loud music, so parental discretion is very much advised.

For more information as you plan your adventure on the Strasburg Rail Road, please visit the website at https://www.strasburgrailroad.com/

Annual Fall Basket Social at Jerusalem Lutheran Church 500 Church Drive Palmerton (Trachsville)

Saturday October 12th from 9-2

Theme baskets, Raffle, Homemade soups, BBQ, Bake sale, chow chow and apple butter by the quart and pint. Come for lunch and try your luck. 3 Baskets will have $25 hidden among the contents. For more infomation call 610-681-5200.

“The Beautiful Stone Church at the Top of the Park”

Some Lehigh Valley Haunts

SOURCE: Various

As we move our way into the haunted season of autumn, we thought it might be fun to give you some haunted tidbits of Lehigh Valley lore. The Lehigh Valley’s spooky pleasures include historic inns, restaurants and pubs to name just a few – you can find them in almost every town and hamlet in the Valley. Here are some ideas in case you want to plan a spooky outing between now and Halloween built around “things that go bump in the night.”

You could get started with an overnight stay in one of the haunted rooms at the Historic Hotel Bethlehem – especially Room 932, or Bethlehem’s Sayre Mansion. If you stay in Room 23 at the Sayre Mansion you might see a ghostly female in the bathroom mirror. It’s possible it’s the ghostly image of one of the Mrs. Sayres – there were four and Room 23 was always Mrs. Sayre’s bedchamber. You can check in with the Sayre Mansion for

their “paranormal experience” ticketed event. The event comes complete with overnight accommodations, dinner and cocktails, a haunted tour, psychic readings and more.

Easton Haunts and Beyond

Easton offers a huge amount of history and more than a few possible ghostly encounters to be had. Easton’s State Theatre boasts the most famous ghost in the Lehigh Valley, the ghost of J. Fred Osterstock who managed the company that owned the theatre from the mid-1930s to 1965. Sightings of Mr. Osterstock’s ghost, known to all as “Fred,”

are often reported.

On South Third Street, part of the home of Salvage Goods Antiques was Easton’s first jail. Not everything that happened there was pleasant. Fairly recently, the space caught the attention of paranormal experts and was then featured on a paranormal television show broadcast in the past year.

Heading downriver and not too far from downtown Easton is Stemie’s Place where it is said that the ghost of “Johnny the Wop” haunts the restaurant where he was gunned down in 1928. Further downriver, the Black Bass Inn is well known by overnight guests and staff for its ghostly encounters – especially with one little girl.

Paranormal Allentown

According to discoverlehighvalley.com, Allentown, PA has its share of the paranormal as well. The Museum of Indian Culture is home to swinging doors, knocking in the library and a young girl who can be seen carrying flowers. There’s also the Jerusalem Wester Salisbury Church Cemetery. The cemetery is one of the oldest cemeteries in Lehigh County and is the resting place for soldiers from the Indian and Revolutionary Wars.

The cemetery is a public cemetery that has a bone-chilling bonus: Historians have traced a 19thcentury legend about death-by-dismemberment to that very graveyard. "The Legend of Tambour Yokel" is an Eastern Pennsylvania folk ballad about a Revolutionary War drummer who was ripped to pieces, some say by the devil himself. According to the folk ballad, "Even stalwart men, with swiftest pace/Haste when they pass that dreadful place."

So as the haunted season approaches, take advantage of the many opportunities to be in the presence of spirits of the haunted variety throughout the Valley.

Lehigh Township Historical Society News

Submitted by Ruth Hall Kent

Autumn is now settling in and leaves are starting to turn. LTHS has almost completed our Open House season, Gravestone Preservation Workshops and annual fundraising activities. Next up is to spend the day at Becky’s Drive-In for Dream Come True on October 6th, followed by our Historical Centre Museum Open House on October 20th and lastly our annual St. Paul’s School Open House and program on November 2nd.

A huge thank you to all who supported our

recent Fall Mum Sale and bake sale on September 21st. We hope everyone enjoyed their mums and any baked goodies they purchased.

The LTHS Gravestone Preservation Workshops were well attended with about 30 people participating over 5 sessions this summer. Thank you to all who participated in the workshops and made our first year a satisfying success! Since the weather is turning cooler, we will discontinue cleaning for this year and resume workshops at

FREE ENTERTAINMENT Magician

Kids Activities

Photo Courtesy of

Jesse Wade Band

Photo Courtesy of

the old Berlinsville Cemetery next spring. A schedule will be posted when dates are chosen for workshops in 2025. If you are interested in joining us for future workshops, contact us and we’ll put you on a waiting list to be notified when we schedule dates next year. If you drive past the cemetery, stop and check out the cleaned stones, you’ll see a noticeable difference to those not cleaned and consider participating next year!

On October 6th LTHS will have a table at Becky’s Drive-In for the 36th Annual Lehigh Township Benefit Festival and Car Show. We will have various books and items for sale and raffles to benefit LTHS and Dream Come True. Stop by and visit us!

The Historical Centre Museum will be open for visitors on Sunday, October 20th from 1 to 4 pm. This will be the final regular open house for this year until next April. The St. Paul’s Schoolhouse will not be open until November.

Mark your calendar for Saturday, November 2nd from 11 am to 2 pm for our special Open House at the St. Paul’s One-Room Schoolhouse in Indianland. The restored one-room school will be open from 11 am to 12:15, socialize in the church social hall prior to the program “Genealogy Basics

– Getting Started” scheduled for 12:30 pm. The event is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served.

If you are interested in genealogy or have skills in genealogical research we would like to hear from you. LTHS is discussing the feasibility of starting a genealogy workshop or club and are seeking people who might like to join in and help others.

Please visit our website at www. lehightownshiphistoricalsociety.org for information on our upcoming events or call the Centre at 610-440-0151 and leave a message.

Cherryville Auto Service Center

Looking for reliable and affordable car repair services in Lehigh County? Look no further!

Cherryville Service Center is your one-stop solution for all your automotive needs. Your car deserves the best! Contact us today to schedule an appointment and experience the difference with us!

Tel: 610-767-8008

Address: 8763 PA Rte 873, PA 18080 e-mail: Office.cargem@gmail.com

Young Heart AT

P lumbing & H eating

AERATOR BALLCOCK BOILER

BURNER

CHILLER

CLOGGED

COIL

COPPER

CRAFTSMAN

Slatington High School Class of 1962

The Slatington High School Class of 1962 held its sixty second reunion in August at the Fairgrounds Hotel in Allentown. Pictured in the first row left to right are : Judy Gellis Snyder, Marlene Blose Blose, Judy Andrews Hoffman, Tim Snyder, Delores Strohl Reitz. In the second row left to right are : Ellen Hunsicker Kuntz, Donna Klotz Seip, Lois Coffin Szapacs, Elaine Babyak Meleski. In the third row left to right are : Peter Romanishan, Russ Kern, Randy Fritzinger, Dale Blose, Preston Williams, Margie Babyak, Larry Turoscy, Betsy Ringer Rauch.

Strange Plumbing Sounds in the Night

SOURCE: oliversplumbing.com (edited)

Every home comes with its share of strange noises - a creaky stair, a hissing furnace, a faint thud as a support beam contracts. These noises usually make themselves known in the middle of the night when one’s imagination can run wild. Instead of ghosts and goblins, though, these noises simply represent the natural soundtrack of a livedin house.

However, a few sounds can be just as scary and can really cause sleepless nights. They can come from the bathroom, the kitchen, and even from inside the walls. Every homeowner should listen for these telltale sounds, as any one of them can mean big trouble for a home’s plumbing system.

Dripping or Trickling Noises

A steady, persistent dripping sound can drive anyone crazy. Fortunately, if it’s coming from a leaky faucet or showerhead, it’s very easy to identify visually. In the case of a faucet leak, the problem is usually relatively easy and inexpensive to fix.

On the other hand, if the dripping sound seems to be coming from inside a wall, the problem is almost certainly a leak somewhere along a supply

or drain pipe. If the sound only occurs when water is in use or has just been used, the leak is in the drainage pipe system. If the dripping sound can be heard constantly the leak is in the supply pipe system.

Mold growth and water stains can eventually develop under or near the spot of the leak. While this is a good indicator of the leak’s location, the damage to a home can already be extensive by that time.

Knocking or Banging Noises

Loud, sudden knocking or banging sounds can be startling and can be caused by a few different plumbing issues. The most common is what’s known as “water hammer.” This occurs when high-velocity water in a supply pipe slams into a valve which has been suddenly closed, creating a loud knock or bang, and rattling the pipe. This is typically heard just as a faucet is shut off.

If knocking occurs as water is turned on, or while running, it could mean excess air is trapped in the supply pipes or that an air vent in the drainage system is not functioning properly. If random knocking or banging occurs when no water seems to be running, the sound could be traveling through

Continued on page 24

Strange Plumbing Sounds in the Night

the plumbing system from the home’s hot water heater. Though normal thermal expansion can produce sounds of this nature from a water heater, it may indicate a more serious issue like scale buildup or a malfunctioning heating element.

Drain or Toilet Gurgling Noises

When a sink, tub, or toilet makes a gurgling or blubbering sound as (or just after) water flows down the drain, it typically means one of two things. One, there is a blockage in the drainpipe; or two, the drainage system’s air vent pipe is not working properly due to an obstruction or other impediment to airflow.

The former may be an easy fix, but the latter may be a symptom of a larger problem and one you shouldn’t ignore. Leaks and pressure problems in a home’s plumbing system don’t just produce spine-tingling noises in the night – they can also be dangerous and costly. A diagnostic inspection from a professional plumber can save loads of money – and provide peace of mind.

Continued from page 23 Sandwich choices

($6.50 each)

40 Second Street, Slatington Orders due Sunday, October 27; Pick-up is Saturday, November 2, between 9:00 and 11:00 A.M. Soup choices ($7.50 per quart) are: Chicken Bow Tie Soup, Ham & Navy Bean Soup, and Lasagna Soup French Dip Sandwich. You

or e-mail Harrison at williamshj2514@msn.com.

Touch-a-Truck Festival

submitted by Jill E. Silvius, Ph.D.

The Memorial Library of Nazareth and Vicinity would like to invite the community to its annual Touch-a-Truck Festival on Saturday, October 5th, from 10am-2pm at Bushkill Township Recreation Fields, 1114 Bushkill Center Road, Nazareth, PA 18064. The event will be held rain-or-shine.

The festival features approximately fifty vehicles of all types for children to climb in and on. Attendees can talk to the vehicle drivers and also enjoy a braiding bar, craft pavilion, demos, giveaways, photos with storybook characters, and food trucks. And if the weather is good, there will be a helicopter landing!

10-11am is a designated quiet hour for those with sensory concerns.

Tickets are $5 each. A family pack of five tickets for $20 is also available through Friday, October

4th. Tickets can be purchased with cash, a check, or a credit card at the library or online via www. nazarethlibrary.org. Individual tickets may also be purchased onsite on the day of the event for $5 each. Children under the age of two are free!

The library is grateful for its many sponsors of this great community event.

For additional information about the library, call 610-759-4932.

PA German Worship Service

submitted by Glenn Gressley

A PA German worship service, will be held at Weisenberg Lutheran Church on Sunday, Nov. 3 at 2:30 pm. Organized by Donald Breininger, Pastor Guy Grube will lead the service.

There will be plenty of special music, a message by Pastor Richard Miller, und kuche in die kellar nochderhand.

The church is located at 7645 Weisenberg Church Rd. New Tripoli, Pa. For questions call 610- 6838905.

Full Landscaping

Design & Installation

Hydroseeding

New Lawn Installations

Interlocking Pavers

Walks & Patios

Backhoe & Skid Steer Service

Post Hole Digger (6 in., 15 in., 24 in., 30 in. holes)

Grant received by the Northern Lehigh Recreation Authority

Submitted by Kasey Meixsell

We are thrilled to announce that the Slatington Lions Club and the West Lehigh Area Lions Club have each awarded a generous grant of $18,850 to the Northern Lehigh Recreation Authority (NLRA), totaling $37,700. These funds will go towards multiple ADA improvements at the Northern Lehigh Swimming Pool, enhancing accessibility and ensuring that everyone in the community can enjoy the facility.

The improvements will include the installation of an ADA ramp into the pool, ADA steps, ADAcompliant bathroom stalls, toilets, sinks, mini ramps throughout the pool house for wheelchair

navigation, and an ADA water fountain. These upgrades will make the pool a more inclusive and welcoming space for all visitors.

This donation comes on the heels of NLRA’s second successful summer managing and operating the pool since taking over in 2023. The past two seasons have seen the pool become a vibrant hub for families and friends, and these enhancements will further improve the experience for all.

We are deeply grateful to both Lions Clubs for their continued commitment to our community and for helping make the Northern Lehigh Swimming Pool a more accessible place for everyone!

TRUNK OR TREAT

Left to right: Dan Lombardo (Lions Club), Fred Folland (Lions Club), Kasey Meixsell (NLRA Executive Director), Claude Fenstermaker (Lions Club), Josh Friebolin (NLRA Board of Directors), Dave Schnaars (NLRA Board of Directors), Nick Sander (NLRA Board of Directors).

OFF THE SHELF

Slatington Library News

submitted by Louise Bechtel

Preschool story hour is back! The fall session will begin Tuesday, October 15th at 11:00am, and run through Tuesday, November 19th. Hoping to see you there.

An informational program on Medicare will be presented by Tony Saby on October 30th, 1:30pm, at the library. All are welcome.

The library will hold its Big Book Sale beginning Friday, November 22nd through Saturday, November 30th at the library. Hardback books will be $1.00 and Paperbacks 50 cents.

1,000 Books before Kindergarten, do you think you can read that many to your child? The library is sponsoring the 1,000 books before kindergarten program. Just stop in, sign up your child/children and pick up an information packet. The funding for the program was provided by a grant from the Rotary Club of Slatington. For more information, please contact the library.

The Book Club is reading “West with Giraffes”, by Lynda Rutledge for the month of September. Their meeting will be held on October 7th at Blue Mountain Winery at 1:00pm. If you are interested in joining the book club, please contact the library.

The library provides many services to the community. For a fee, we provide copies and faxes. A free library card gets you access to books, e-books, magazines, e-magazines and audio books from 12 libraries as well as links to 12 online databases. There are also public access computers from which you can print for a fee.

Library hours are 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.

Labrador Retriever Mix Breinigsville, PA

Adult • Female • Large Characteristics: Affectionate, Couch, Curious, Athletic, Funny, Friendly, Loves, Playful, Loyal, Smart, Protective Coat length: Short • House-trained: Yes Health: Vaccinations up to date, spayed / neutered. Prefers a home without other dogs.

Coco is a female silver lab mix around 4 years old. She was recently surrendered to us. She is understandably stressed and confused in her kennel. We are making sure to give her lots of love and attention. She is currently our office dog and loving all of the attention and visitors! She is such a sweet and happy girl and loves everyone she meets!

Coco would do best as the only dog in the home. She would also prefer a family who is home more often than not since her previous family was gone for long hours. She has not been cat tested. She weighs around 60 lbs and would do best with older children.

Interested in Coco? Apply online today!

https://form.jotform.com/SanctuaryHaafsville/dog-adoptapplication or email dogadoptions@thesanctuarypa.org

Please be aware that we are all volunteers and we do not preapprove applications.

We are open every Saturday to the public from 10-2 to meet our dogs.

Dog adoptions will not take place during that 10-2 timeframe and applications will only be taken on our available dogs that day. Also please do not bring your own dogs during our Saturday open hours.

If unable to attend our Saturday open hours email dogadoptions@ thesanctuarypa.org

The Sanctuary at Haafsville PA Kennel License #8356

The Sanctuary at Haafsville 901 Nestle Way Breinigsville, PA 18031 dogadoptions@thesanctuarypa.org

Welschkann Baschde

Ihr liewe Leit:

TOUCH OF DUTCH

Submitted by Larry Gradwohl

Welschkann blanse, waxe un aernde waar net graad die indressantschde Aerwet ass en Bauer geduh hot waehrend's Fruchtyaahr. Awwer baschde? Ya, sell waar ebbes schunnscht!

"Der Oktower bringt oftmols die schennscht Zeit im Yaahr, abbaddich wann's net zu frieh kalt watt. Die Bauere duhn als Welschkann baschde um die Zeit. Sell iss ken haddi Aerwet, un wann's net zu waarem waar odder zu kalt, dass eem die Finger schteif warre sin, hen mer's als recht gaern geduh. Fer Alders hen sie oft als en Welschkannbascht

Maetsch gemacht owets wann's schee Mondschei waar. All die yunge Leit in der Nochberschaft sin eigelaade warre dezu un hen als halliche Zeide ghatt. Die Buwe un Meed hen paarweis gebascht, un wann als eens en roder Kolwe gfunne hot, noh hot's seim Paertner en Boss gewwe daerfe. Was hot mer gewatscht fer die rode Kolwe! " (1)

Am Welschkannbaschde waar's die Ruul

So bei de yunge Leit—

Hot eens en roder Kolwe gfunne, Dann hot er en Schmutzer gewunne

Vum Meedel bei der Seit.

Die rode Kolwe hen mer gschpaart Fer Suume—'s waar en gudi Aart.

Was rode Kolwe! rode Kolwe!

Ich meen ich sehn sie noch; En roder Kolwe waar em lieb, Un Oh! was schlaue yunge Dieb, Un glicklich waar mer doch

Wie mir noch hen so schmutze daerfe, Un waer deet nau so'n Ruul verwaerfe? (2)

Wie mer nau sehne, iss "schtrippe" aa en Watt as mer benutze kann:

In selle Daage, des muss ich saage, Waar alles froh un frei;

En halwi Nacht watt's freehlich glacht

Un Welschkann gschtrippt debei!

Un ich meen ich seh yetz vor mir schteh 'S yung Volk vun alde Zeide; Un frieh odder schpot, en Kolwe rot Bring widder Yugendfreide!

Sell waar die Zeit fer yunge Leit, Datt kannscht dich druff verlosse; Wer'n roder finnt, der watt dann gschwinnt Sei liebschdes Meedel bosse! (3)

Un nau en wichdichi Froog: Gleiche es die Meed wann ihre Baschtpaertner en roder Kolwe finne?

In seim Gedicht "Der Rot Kolwe" hot der Arthur D. Graeff wennichdens ee Antwatt.

Die Maad saagt:

Wann ich des Welschkannbaschde gleich

Un schaff im Welschkannfeld,

Ich hab mei Ursach, des saag ich eich, Ich hab mir's aageschtellt.

Letscht Friehyaahr, so im Mitt vum Moi, Am Welschkannblanses Zeit, Blans ich ee Nacht in yeder Roi Paar rode Kann—gscheit?

Nau glaawich as mei Zeit mol kummt

Fer'n rode Kolwe finne;

Un wann ich duh, dann watt getschumpt! Muss mich net lang besinne!

Der Gnecht iss so verdollt langsam— Er gebt mir nie kee Boss;

Im Busch, im Haus, im Feld, im Schwamm— Er saagt er will ken "Fuss."

Doch wann ich so en Kolwe finn, Un er iss neegscht debei, Glaab du mir des: ich hab's im Sinn Fer'n luschdich Bosserei! (4) Join Us For 2nd Annual St. John’s Howertown & St. Paul’s Indianland UCC

Continued on page 36

October 27, 2024

Featuring Coach, Michael Kors & Kate Spade purses

American Club of Coplay

300 Cherry St., Coplay

Doors Open at 11:30 - Games Begin at 1:00

Tickets from Eventbrite under “Designer Purse Bingo hosted by St. John’s & St. Paul’s UCC” or by Venmo Text 610-657-4517 for QR Code EVERYONE

Touch of Dutch

Continued from page 35

Macht’s gut, Der Alt Professer (Earl C. Haag, in his ‘Nein Uhr Schtick’)

Husking Corn

Dear People:

Planting, growing, and harvesting corn was not the most interesting work that a farmer did during a growing season.

But husking? Yes, that was something else!

"October often brings the nicest time of the year, especially if it doesn't get cold too early. The farmers husk corn around this time of year. That is not hard work, and if it isn't too warm or too cold so that one's fingers got stiff, we used to do it right gladly. Years ago they used to have a cornhusking match in the evenings when there was a moon shining nicely. All the young people in the neighborhood were invited to it and used to have glorious times. The boys and girls husked

as pairs, and when one of them found a red ear, then he was allowed to give his partner a kiss. How one watched for a red ear!"

While husking corn it was the rule

With the young people—

If one of them found a red ear, Then he won a kiss

From the girl at his side. The red ears were saved For seeds—it was a good custom. What red ears! red ears!

I imagine I still see them; We just loved a red ear, And oh, what sly young thieves, And we were very happy

When we could kiss like that, And who would now reject such a rule?

As we now see, "schtrippe" is also a word that can be used [in place of "baschde", to husk].

In those days, I must say, Everything was happy and free; For half a night we happily laughed And husked corn in the meanwhile!

And I imagine I see now standing before me

Continued on page 38

Alan’s Auto Parts & U Pull It Yard

Touch of Dutch

Continued from page 36

The young folks from olden times; And early or late, a red ear

Again brings the joys of youth!

That was the time for young people, You can depend on that; Whoever finds a red one, he will then quickly Kiss his dearest girl!

And now an important question: Do the girls like it when their husking partner finds a red ear? In his poem "The Red Ear" Arthur D. Graeff has at least one answer.

The hired girl says:

If I like husking corn

And work in the cornfield, I have my reason, I can tell you that, I have arranged it so myself.

Last spring, so in the middle of May, At the time of planting corn, I planted one night in every row

A few red kernels—smart of me?

Now I believe that my time is coming To find a red ear;

And when I do—then I'll be jumping!

RAUSCH CLEAN OUTS

I don't have to think it over very long! The hired hand is so doggone slow, He never gives me a kiss; In the woods, the house, the field, the meadow— He says he wants no "fuss." But if I find such an ear, And he is close by, Believe you me—I have in mind For some lusty kissing! Take care,

The Old Professor (Earl C. Haag, in his ‘9 o’clock Break’ column)

[The references Haag cites in this article:

(1) Henry A Schuler, “Unser PennsylvaanishDeitscher Kalenner” (Our Pennsylvania Dutch Calendar), 1904.

(2) Henry L. Fisher, “’S alt Marik-Haus mittes in d’r Schtadt” (The old Market-place in the Middle of the Town), 1879.

(3) Ezra Grumbine, “Der Prahl-Hans (The Braggart), 1917.

(4) Arthur D. Graef, in Preston A Barba’s Pennsylvania German column in the ‘Morning Call,’ no date.]

-Larry Gradwohl, 3rd October 2024

Halloween Bingo

NAPL Happenings

submitted by Veronica LaRoche

It's here! The Autumn Online Auction is upon us! Check out the items we have to bid on by going to https://napl.tiny.us/oa24. Bid while you can; the Auction closes at 11:00 PM on Saturday, October 5th.

As we move through October, programs begin opening up again! Tech Tutoring remains on Mondays 11:00 AM-1:00 PM and Saturdays 9:00 AM-12:00 PM by appointment only; sign up on our website (northamptonapl.org) or give us a call at 610-262-7537. The Teen Spooky Watercolor

Family owned and operated home

heating fuel oil available to the Lehigh Valley (484) 274-6778

• tkofueloil.com

Ghost craft kit pickup begins on Monday, October 7th. Stitch & Chat, which is slowly turning into a bring your own craft get-together, is October 8th at 6:00 PM for anyone who can make it. All are also welcome to the Library Board Meeting on Thursday, October 10th at 6:30 PM. Eric Mintel and his spirit medium, Dominic Sattele, will be here on October 16th at 6:00 PM to spotlight some of the ghost stories from their local television series. The Paranormal Projection Room is open to all teens and adults!

After the Auction and Basket Social, programs for kids are back on track! Join us with all the kids on Monday, October 14th at 4:30 PM for an outdoor Family Story Hour. We'll bring the parachute and stories. You bring yourselves in comfortable clothes for the weather and maybe a blanket or other item to sit on. Should it rain on October 14th, our rain date is inside on October 21st at 4:30 PM. The following week Early Literacy Storytimes return for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers respectively on Tuesdays at 10:30

Continued on page 42

Blue Mountain

Chimney Sweep

610-285-2081

Email: blumtswemas@aol.com

•Chimney Liners

•Brick/Stone Pointing/Restoration

•Teardowns & Rebuilds

•Chimney Cleaning

•Relining Specialist

•Masonry Waterproofing

•Fireplace Restorations

•Repointing

•Masonry Repairs

•Chimney Caps & Dampers

•Inspections

•Fireplace and Chimney Masons

NAPL Happenings

AM, Wednesdays at 10:00 AM, and Thursdays at 10:00 AM.

More events for teens are happening toward the end of the month. Another teen craft kit for Glittery Halloween Slime goes on for those who signed up on Monday, October 21st. Mayzi will be hosting a STEM workshop for Exploding Pumpkins on Saturday, October 26th at 2:00 PM. Finally, don't miss Mayzi's art workshop on Monday, October 28th at 6:00 PM to design your own Whimsey Goth Photo Frame.

Adults will never be forgotten at the Northampton Area Public Library. Medicare open enrollment starts on October 15th, so we have experts coming in to help explain some of the different options involved with Medicare plans. On Monday October 21st at 6:00 PM, United Healthcare's Kathy Moses will explain the options United Healthcare may have for you or your loved one, and on Tuesday, October 22nd at 1:00 PM Toni Saby will be back to discuss the options she may have to save you money on the healthcare you need. In relation to mental health, Christina

Lieb from The Care Team will presenting The Cure for Loneliness on October 22nd at 6:00 PM. Why? Because the Surgeon General, Dr. Vivek Murthy, is deeply concerned about America's public health, especially where the epidemic of loneliness and isolation is concerned. Social connections are a must these days, and not just over a screen.

Adults deserve some fun though; right? Which is why the Laid-Back Book Club's discussion this month will be on Bridget Collins' "The Silent Factory." Don't forget our true crime club! Once Upon a Crime will be discussing Women

Have the Heart for Young People?

Desire to Have Them Embrace Jesus?

Then you might be the person Friedens Church in Slatington is looking for to organize our youth and plan activities for our younger crowd.

Contact the Pastormonte.schroeder@evangelical.edu

Murderers on Monday, October 28th at 6:00 PM. Be there! Unless you're sensitive to violence... In that case, please stay home. The Well-Read, BadlyBehaved Book Club will be holding two sessions on Tuesday, October 28th to discuss Clare MacIntosh's "The Last Party." Both sessions are open to anyone who has read the book, so come at the most convenient time for yourself: 1:30 PM or 7:00 PM

Finally, the library will close at 5:00 PM on Thursday, October 17th for the Jack Frost Parade. Feel free to park in our lot and sit out in front of the library for a great view!

Now collecting and continuing to Christmas, The Blue Mountain Town & Country Gazette will be collecting for local seniors in need. Our address is 255E South Best Ave., Walnutport and items can be dropped off between 9am and 4pm Monday thru Friday.

LAUGH OUT LOUD

Lehigh Twp. Fire Dept. Celebrates 80th Anniversary

Dani Lane Photography

Annual Bazaar

It’s the time of the year that Christ UCC Walnutport, 309 Main St., Walnutport has their annual Bazaar. You don’t want to miss out on this event!

They have delicious food and baked goods, really awesome Chinese Auction prizes, and of course their rummage sale.

All this and maybe run into some old friends. Hours are: Friday, November 1st from 10am to 6pm and Saturday, November 2nd from 9am to 1pm.

BIRTHDAY COUPON

Mail to the Blue Mountain Town & Country Gazette, P.O. Box A, Walnutport, PA 18088

Please Print Legibly!

Name____________________________ Hometown _________________

Age on Birthday______________ Date of Birth____________________

One person per issue will be randomly chosen to win a FREE

Call the Blue Mountain Town & Country Gazette office for info on how to receive the free cake.

LEHIGH TOWNSHIP LIONS OFFER FREE EYE EXAMS FOR LEHIGH TWP RESIDENTS

The LEHIGH TOWNSHIP LIONS CLUB is offering a FREE eye exam to residents of Lehigh Township, regardless of age, who are not covered by Eye Care Insurance. The eye exam will be performed by Walnutport Family Eye Care.

To take advantage of this important and FREE opportunity, which ends Dec. 31, 2024, please contact Wayne A. Benninger, Community Action Chairman for the Lehigh Township Lions Club, at 610-349-3596 or any other Lehigh Township Lions Club member.

As part of a public service project, the eye exam fees will be paid by the Lehigh Township Lions Club..... serving Lehigh Township since I951.

This offer is limited to the first 200 qualified respondents.

Birthday Cake from Scoopendorf’s Ice Cream Company, Walnutport.

Front L to R: Pat Amey, Sallyann Madden, Laura Meyers

Back L to R: Kyle Davis- rep for his late father Kim Davis, Ronald Jerdon, Peter Schneider, Jr -rep for his late father Peter Schneider, Sr, & Brian Ruff.

Konkrete Kids

Educational Foundation

Distinguished Alumni Wall of Honor Celebration

The event was held on September 22, 2024 at Woodstone Country Club and Lodge. 2024 Distinguished Alumnus Wall of Honor Inductees were Patricia Amey, Kim Davis (dec’d), Ronald Jordan, Sallyann Madden, Laura Meyers, Brian Ruff and Peter Schneider, Sr. (dec’d).

Accepting Applications

Lincoln Manor Apartments

One and Two BR Apartments plus One BR Accessible Apartments

Security Deposit, One year Lease, and Income Verifications required. Call or write: Lincoln Manor, 320 Oak St. Walnutport, PA 18088 610-767-9232 TDD 711

C all or email kim@hymangroup.com 484-828-2194

Managed by: Grosse and Quade Management Co.

“This institution is an equal opportunity housing provider and employer.”

Managed by: Hyman Properties 610-433-4114

“This institution is an equal opportunity housing provider and employer.”

BLOCK SHOOT

1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

*Open to the Public* #24-00144 | Permit 4

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.

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. $900 + utilities, security required. Call 610-390-8691.

Slatington Hotel: Clean, safe, quiet, nicely furnished rooms, $155-$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. (12/19)

Services Available

Don Hartwig Sharpening Service: Saw Chain, Mower Blades, Scissors, Knives, Clipper Blades, Carbide Tip Saws, and much more. 4728 Mountain Rd. Slatington. 610-248-7988. (12/19)

SEAMLESS GUTTERS AND DOWNSPOUTS: Complete installation. Made to any length on site. No seams, no leaks. 30 years experience. K.W. Greenawalt, 610-298-3380 (11/21)

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

Our Next Issue!

Oct. 17 - Halloween Deadline - Oct. 9

BLUE MOUNTAIN GAZETTE

ADVERTISER INDEX

BEERS

•Numerous styles of vinyl siding, including insulated

•Vinyl Shutters •Shakes & Scallops

•Roofing

•Full line of replacement windows and steel doors

•Our