Blue Mountain Town & Country Gazette April 18

Home Improvements and More

By John Hall for Blue Mountain Town & Country Gazette

Welcome to our annual real estate and home improvement issue. We bring it out at this time of year because spring is often when residential real estate changes hands. It’s also the time when we need to put our attention on the planning and execution of any home improvement projects we want to have finished this year – whether we tackle them ourselves or have a contractor do it all.

Now if you succeed in purchasing a new home this year, specifically a new (to you) home that has some miles on it, you might find that your “inherited” kitchen is an old one. That happens all the time. According to one study more than 60% of those kitchens are fully ripped out and replaced. That’s great for people who can take that approach, but if budget is more of a concern for you, you might want to at least look at the situation in a different way. That’s what we do in “How to: New Kitchen, Same Cabinets.” It’s a good read.

It is said that we Americans don’t get as much sleep as we should. Sleep is a real necessity and if your sleep has ever suffered in a smaller bed with a partner – or maybe the kids and pets – you know a great big bed would be a dream come true. However, we often don’t have the “great big room” to accommodate that dream. Is there any hope? There might be. See our article, “Big Bed, Small Room” for some expert tips on this situation.

Sometimes when we think of home improvements that are “eco-friendly,” all kinds of things come to mind from high-efficiency stoves to all-new double pane windows throughout the house. But what if

Home Improvements and More

Continued from page 3

you don’t have that kind of money lying around – or live in an apartment? Are there things you yourself could do – maybe things a lot less expensive – to create real dollar savings? Please see “Under $100: Eco-friendly Home Improvements” for some answers to that question. Heading into the yard, do you see paradise, or could it use a little improvement? In “Improvements for the Garden” we give you nine solid ideas – very doable – that can really spruce it up so you can enjoy it all summer long – and beyond.

Finally, in “House Cleaning Tips,” we share tips from cleaning pros that can help improve the speed and results of your house cleaning efforts.

Looking ahead to our next issue we are going to celebrate mothers and camping, and also introduce our new “Short Getaway” series. The “Getaway” series will feature easy drive-trip destinations you can enjoy this summer and even into the fall. Some of the getaways could be done as daytrips, while others might take a couple of days, or could be extended into a long weekend. Watch for the series starting with our next issue. We look forward to seeing you then!

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How to: New Kitchen, Same Cabinets

When you buy a house, you usually inherit things from previous owners that you would have never picked yourself. Unless you are really going to do a complete gut and redo, take a look at the “hand-me-down” features and see if there are any you can salvage successfully. If you can, it will do wonders for your budget. Let’s focus on the kitchen.

Keeping the Cabinets

Although many people might say light oak wood cabinets are Dated with a capital D, with sleeker handles, they could come across with a vaguely Nordic, piney feel that gives you a warm vibe to come home to. It’s an option to consider.

Preserving kitchen cabinets often makes both financial and environmental sense. But many people don’t fully embrace an older look. Actually, according to the 2023 U.S. Houzz Kitchen Trends Study, 66 percent of homeowners replace all their

kitchen cabinets during a remodel. Still, with a little creativity, you might find a different path forward.

Finding Compromise

So let’s say the conversation with your partner has gone a little “south” regarding the old kitchen cabinets: one of you loves them, one of you hates them. If you’re working with any kind of designer you could ask them what they would suggest. Is there a compromise?

If your contractor has software that lets you see things in advance, you might find a compromise that works for you – and saves a chunk of your budget. Depending on cabinet quality and the age of the home, keeping some of the cabinetry can honor the home’s character.

As an example, one compromise might be: same cabinets, same kitchen, but with the island painted a soft green and other finishes such as counters, backsplash and light fixtures changed. Depending on the look you’re going for, the doors, door frames and even the window frames could also be done in the soft green.

How to: New Kitchen, Same Cabinets

Continued from page 5

Fix Surface Issues

If you’ve inherited dark countertops that make the entire kitchen look dark in your opinion, replacing them with quartz in a lightly veined white can make all the difference. The lighter quartz will also help maximize any sunlight that flows into the room.

If you then choose a sandstone

backsplash, which has a rougher look on its surface, you will create a more natural feel in the space. You could then smear just a little bit of mortar over the sandstone to make everything seem even more cozy, homey and authentic.

Evict What Doesn’t Work

Maybe in your inherited kitchen, the bottom wood cabinets are salvageable but the uppers really are not. Keeping some of the cabinets will still be great for your pocketbook, while letting you make changes that really work for you.

Often in an older kitchen you won’t have the amenities that let you use space most efficiently and effectively. If the upper cabinets work, but the lowers don’t have the functionality you want, when you replace the lower cabinets you might opt for more counter space. In doing so, you can also reposition the sink and so forth to create a more contemporary work flow area.

Finally, upgrade the details – especially the hardware and lighting. It will make the entire kitchen look newer.

28th Annual Basket Social

Coloring Page

Improvements for the Garden

SOURCE: wallstoriez.com (edited)

Is your backyard a bit lacking? Now is the time to spruce it up with some easy garden DIY ideas. Here are just a few you might find interesting.

Give Your Flowerbed a Border

This is a quick way to improve your backyard, and all you really need are some bricks. Just dig a shallow trench that runs all along the length of your flowerbed and start placing your bricks inside. If you're not big on the brick look, you can use a couple of 4x4s or rocks from a garden center or field. This can also be a fun project with friends or family since it's so quick to do.

Plant Some Colorful Flowers

Not many people take full advantage of having flowers in their yard, but they should. It's a great way to add color and you don't even need to be great at gardening. Your best bet is to try searching for flowers that are native to your area, because that makes it easier to keep them alive. When you find the flowers you want, grab a few different colors and varieties.

Build a Tree Bench Building a wooden bench around an old tree

Henry’s Service Station Henry’s Service Station

adds a rustic focal point to the yard. If you already have the tools, this could be a perfect weekend project. Remember to grab some stain when you go to the store if you want your tree bench to have a more finished look. You could also paint it if you want.

Transform an Old Shed

If you have an old shed in your yard, you have a ton of potential just sitting there. Think about all of the things you could convert your shed into: a guest room, an outdoor work space, an outdoor dining area, or a space to just get away from the house and relax. The possibilities are endless and all it requires is a plan and a little bit of work.

Add a Bird Feeder

This is a simple project that pays big dividends. Adding a bird feeder to your yard invites wildlife to come and stay for a bit. You could be very pleasantly surprised by all the different species that visit your yard, especially if you live in an area that birds migrate to or through.

A Few More Ideas

Incorporate Stones into Your Landscaping / Don't forget you can incorporate stones into just

about any landscaping project. They look great and make great filler material around flower beds and walkways.

Highlight Your Trees / Adding a tree or two can make your yard more livable. Not only do they provide shady places and the potential for fourseason interest, but you can extend gravel walkways to them or build stone seating areas nearby. Lights and hammocks can also be hung from their branches.

Add Raised Planters and Lattice / Raised planter boxes work well on their own or with the addition of lattice for climbing plants. They're also really simple to build. 484-623-4888

No matter what you choose to do, the garden is the perfect place to make improvements you can enjoy year-round just by using your vision, skills and creativity.

13th Annual “Keep Slatington Beautiful” Town Cleanup Scheduled

Submitted by Robert Stettner

Volunteers are needed for Slatington’s annual cleanup day! The Slatington Parks & Recreation Commission will sponsor the 13th Annual Keep Slatington Beautiful Clean-Up Day on Saturday, April 20 beginning at 9 am. The cleanup held in conjunction with Earth Day will help beautify public recreation areas throughout the Borough of Slatington. Areas to be cleaned will be boroughowned and operated recreation facilities in the borough and include the Walnut Street Playground,

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West End Playground, Victory Park, The Fish Pond, Slatington Memorial Park, Slatington Trailhead, and the Slate Heritage Trail from the Slatington Trailhead continuing westward to the Washington Township boundary line. The commission is looking for local Boy Scout & Girl Scout Troops, area civic organizations, and general public members to assist in the cleanup. The cleanup will be staged at the Slatington Borough Maintenance Garage on West Church Street. Interested individuals and groups who wish to participate are asked to call Robert at 610-554-4099. You may also message the Slatington Parks & Recreation Commission on Facebook Messenger. Light lunch and refreshments will be provided to all participants following the cleanup at a location to be announced. There is no rain date for the event this year, the cleanup will be held rain or shine, although heavy steady rain will cancel the cleanup.

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Big Bed, Small Room

SOURCE: washingtonpost.com (edited)

If you have ever crammed into a too-snug bed with a partner (or pets and kids), or wish for the opportunity to sleep outstretched like a starfish, a big bed is the dream. Without a royal-sized room to match however, it might feel like an unattainable luxury. Interior designers have good news for you: there are ways to help a larger bed make sense and look good in a small space. Here are some of their tips:

Focus on Flow

To determine if a bigger mattress really can fit, the pros say you’ll need to ensure there are at least two feet of clearance around the bed – the bare minimum to walk by comfortably. While any kind of bed can work in a small room, according to the experts, one feature to avoid is the footboard, which can be a real knee-banger in a tight space.

Get Bed Height Right

Regarding tall bed versus low bed, one expert says it’s much more important for the bed to be a comfortable height for the user. And remember to match the bedside table height to the bed.

Use Your Walls

One space-saving tactic that designers recommend repeatedly is to opt for wall-mounted elements bedside. Instead of a standard bedside table, pick a wall-mounted one. Instead of a table lamp, install a wall sconce to keep the surface of your small nightstand free.

Carefully Select Lighting

In a tight space, the wrong sconce could become a pain point. If you like to read in bed, you’ll want lights that articulate both side-to-side and frontto-back, so you can position them for reading, then easily move them out of the way. Dimmable models are recommended.

Go Minimal Near Bed

Even a wall-mounted bedside drawer can be too big for a small room. One option: mount customdepth shelves beside the bed to use for key nightstand items.

Play with Prints

Don’t be afraid to use patterns in a small room with a big bed. You can use them on the headboard, curtains, side chair and pillow shams. A combination of prints actually draws attention away from the bed’s relatively large size for the room.

Use Mirrors

Mirrors are a classic way to make a room seem

more spacious. When you’re squeezing in a large bed, experts suggest adding small mirrors in unexpected spots, giving the eye other places to focus.

Avoid Full Monochrome

It might seem like matching the bed linens to the walls would hide a bed’s large dimensions, but you need at least some contrast between the bed and the rest of the room – or the bed can actually look larger. Try different shades of the same tone, or a mix of textures.

Don’t Skimp on Bedding

When you come into a small bedroom, the bedding is the most dominant thing in the room, so make sure you love the bedding you use. Good bedding is expensive, but you use it every night.

Layer Textures

Whatever your color scheme is, the success of a small bedroom design is built around a mix of textures and materials. That will give the room visual interest and make the bed seem like it’s more a part of the total room.

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Under $100: Eco-friendly Home Improvements

SOURCE: washingtonpost.com (edited)

When it comes to home improvements that are “eco-friendly” we often think of big-ticket items like high-efficiency stoves, furnaces and complete window replacements. But on any given day, most people are not ready to be spending thousands of dollars. What if you didn’t need to? What if you yourself could make eco-friendly improvements in your home (or apartment) that would turn a few dollars into a handful of them, while cutting emissions in a few months or even sooner?

Here are some of the best eco-friendly ideas to invest in for the climate – and your comfort – by price, from $100 down to zero.

Declare war on drafts / Cost: A few bucks to several hundred dollars.

Why it works: When you heat or cool your house, a draft is your #1 enemy. If you only have $100 to

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apply to home improvement, this is the place.

• Start with door sweeps. A three-foot length of vinyl, rubber or foam ($9.93) can pay for itself in one month preventing air from escaping under your doors.

• Window weatherstripping.

A strip of insulation for leaky windows delivers benefits similar to door sweeps with rubberized v-strips, felt or selfadhesive foam tape.

• A $5 window insulation kit.

A transparent shrink film between the window panes and the room can increase window insulation values by 90 percent. Perfect for outof-the-way windows or if aesthetics aren’t a top concern.

Manage phantom loads / Cost: Starts around $30.

Why it works: The average home has about 40 devices that pull electric power even when not turned on – everything from plasma TVs to printers. Those devices consume 5 to 10 percent of the nation’s energy. Smart strips or plugs that are load controllers can help ensure power is cut when the device isn’t in use overnight or during other periods.

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Switch to LEDs / Cost: Starts at $1.

Why it works: The latest-generation LED bulbs are 90 percent more efficient than incandescent bulbs, and they’re cheaper and more reliable than earlier versions. You’ll have plenty of hues to pick from including amber and daylight.

Seal your attic access point / Cost: $60 to $150.

Why it works: If there’s a gap in the access point where you enter the attic, air will rush through it every time your heating or cooling comes on. A simple insulation cover cuts heat and cooling loss dramatically, while keeping out dust particles that might drift down.

Push your lawn mower / Cost: Starts around $70.

Why it works: Stuck cutting grass behind a belching engine? First, plant a tidy “wildland” – a mostly natural yard with only a small area of grass you have to mow. Next, buy a non-motorized push mower. Post-purchase, it will hardly cost you a dime.

Install storm windows / Cost: Starts around $80 per window.

pricey. Storm windows let you achieve similar results at much less cost.

Turn down your water heater / Cost: Free.

Why it works: You are burning through hundreds of dollars by not turning down your water heater to 120 degrees – the Energy Department recommendation. It not only lowers the risk of scalding – 140-degree water leads to serious burns within three seconds – it also can save more than $400 annually.

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House Cleaning Tips

No matter how you go about cleaning your home, the objective is to maintain a clean and organized living space that contributes to your overall well-being. While there's no right or wrong way to clean, there are ways to make the cleaning process more efficient. Here are tips from cleaning pros.

Start by Decluttering

Before you dust, wipe, and scrub, declutter your living space to give yourself a less overwhelming situation to deal with. A tidy space will make the cleaning process faster and more manageable. Start by picking up and putting away everything that has gathered on the floor. Then do the same with all the surfaces. A big declutter will make cleaning so much faster.

Gather Your Supplies

Create a designated cleaning station that puts all your cleaning supplies and products in one place. This ensures that you have everything you need and you know where it is. Devote a single

bucket or caddy to supplies you’ll carry with you while you clean. Then, create a master schedule and commit.

Establish a Cleaning Schedule

Divide your cleaning tasks into daily, weekly, and monthly lists. One expert recommends wiping down and disinfecting all high-traffic areas daily – doorknobs, countertops, kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms, and so forth. On a weekly basis, wash sheets and towels, vacuum and mop floors, dust surfaces and furniture, and clean your showers and bathtubs.

As for monthly tasks, take inventory of the food in your kitchen, cleaning supplies, and toiletries

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House Cleaning Tips

Continued from page 18

to make sure they're not expired or running low.

Clean With the Right Focus

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You can either clean your kitchen in four hours, or clean your entire house top to bottom in four hours. In reality, just wiping things down and moving on is quick and efficient. One approach is to focus on completing one chore, such as dusting, throughout the entire house before starting the next activity.

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drops of lemon or orange essential oil. Let the mixture sit in the bowl for 30 minutes and scrub with a bowl brush before flushing.

Cleaning Focus: The Dishwasher

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Because of its warm and damp environment, the dishwasher is one of the biggest culprits for potential mold growth. To clean it, run an empty dry-heat cycle to flush out the interior, including the silverware basket, filter, panels, and door gasket. To keep the dishwasher germ-free, you can clean the affected areas with diluted bleach and if there’s mold in the silverware basket, let it soak in your kitchen sink with diluted bleach and warm water for 30 minutes. Be sure to rinse thoroughly before placing back into the dishwasher.

Cleaning Focus: The Kitchen Drain

Routinely clean your drains with a combination of baking soda and vinegar. Every month or two, pour half a cup of baking soda into the drain, followed by half a cup of white vinegar. Let it fizzle and react for about half an hour before flushing it down with hot water. Doing this eats away at the grease and grime that naturally builds up in the drains.

No matter how you approach it, commit to the cleaning process!

Ontelaunee Region Antique Car Club

submitted by Susan Manwiller

Our Apple Blossom Tour is on Sunday, May 19, 2024. We will be taking a leisurely drive to Mascaro Auto Museum in Birdsboro, PA. Lunch will be at the Douglassville Hotel which is noted for a menu listing 128 different ways to have a hamburger. Reservation deadline is May 4, 2024.

Our annual Church Tour is on Father’s Day, June 16, 2024. We will attend church services at St. John’s UCC in Fogelsville followed by lunch and tour of the area.

You do not need to own an antique car to join our club or to go on tours.

Our biggest event, Das Awkscht Fescht, (The August Festival) will be held at the Macungie Memorial Park August 2, 3, 4, 2024. This family event includes car show, swap meet, cars for sale, arts & crafts, live bands, children’s games, petting zoo. Learn more at awkscht.com.

If you have an interest in old cars, introduce yourself at our next meeting, Saturday, May 4, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. in the basement of New Jerusalem Zion Church, 1456 Krumsville Rd., Lenhartsville, PA. Our meetings include socialization, door prizes, and refreshments.

Membership requires belonging to AACA but call us first to see if you are eligible for a free National membership in AACA.

For more information contact our membership chairperson, Phyllis, at 610-9659236 or email phyllispeters@hotmail.com.

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Es Deitsch Schtick

Der Pit Schweffelbrenner

Nummer 80:05 Geschdrowed hot der Pit en grossi Blessier ghadde. Er waar am Drog bei Grundsau-lodsch Nummer Eens an der Lechaa. Es Esses waar wie geweehnlich marrickwaerdich gut. Der Pit hot sich en gudi Lischt neie Gschichde gsammelt – kann sie awwer leider net im “Schtick” gewwe. Em Heffi sei Drupp hot recht gut gschpielt. Die Leit am Disch waare alle leidlich. Awwer derno hawwich die Blessier ghadde der Tschonn Deischer aus Philadelphia kenne lanne. Er waar dadde as Raatsglied vun Lodsch Nummer Drei an der Temple University. Noch der Hand hot er verzeehlt as er 93 Yaahre yung iss. Mir henn schunnt devor vun ihm im “Schtick” en Gschicht gewwe, welle widder heit noch eens gewwe.

Der Daadi Fangt Der Dieb Yaahre zerick, im Cleveland seinre Zeit iss der Daadi nausgange un hot beim Daag gschafft. Der Henn Miller hot en grossi Bauerei ge-eegnet uff

em Glingel-schdee-barrick, baut fimf Meil vun Pottsiown. Sei Onkel “Tscharlie” iss alli Woch odder zwee nauskumme uff Bsuch. Der Daadi hot gschafft fer der Miller.

Der Daadi hot gsehne as der Onkel Tscharlie im heesse Wedder rum laaft mit seim Rock aa. Ebb er heemgange iss, iss er in die Scheier rum geloffe. Der Daadi hot des net verschteh kenne, waar en wennich wunnerfitzich, un hot ausgemacht er sott

Touch of Dutch

Continued from page 25

ausfinne warum der Onkel Tscharlie des duh deet. Er hot nooch ihm neigeguckt un hot gsehne as der Onkel Tscharlie die Hinkel-neschder sucht un dutt die Oier in sei Rockseck neischtecke.

Des hot der Daadi wennich bees gemacht, hot awwer des iwwergedenkt unn hot ausgemacht er deet besser es Maul halde. Ee wennich schpeeder iss der Henn beikumme un hot gsaagt: “Ben, ich hab gemeent mir deede marriye der Glee mehe, hab die Maschin aus em Schopp grickt un hab gsehne as ee Deel Messere verbroche waare. Schpann der Millichgaul nei un faahr zu Pottstown zum Van Buskirk seim Schtor un kaaf neie Messere. Wann graad gehscht kummscht nei ebb er der

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Der Daadi hot graad eigschpannt. Hot zum () nkel Tscharlie gsaagt: “Tschump nei, ich nemm dich heem.” Der Tscharlie hot gsaagt: “Nee, ich laaf.” Daadi hot gsaagt: "Nix kumm raus! Uff so me heesse Daag duhscht net laafe. Ich loss dich graad ab an deinre Heemet.”

Sell waar die Zeit wu sie noch die Schtrosse mit Graawe gemacht henn. So as des Regge-wasser net alles auswesche deet, henn sie alle so viel Fiess vunenanner Ablosse gegraawe. Eens hot des Reggewasser in der link Grawwe neigeduh. der Anner in der recht Graawe nei.

Der Daadi hot ausgemacht des waer die Zeit fer der Onkel Tscharlie uffweisse. Er hot em Gaul die Fitz gewwe, un allemol as er iwwer en Abloss gange iss, hot’s der Onkel Tscharlie in die Heeh gschmisse, unn no widder nunner gebumpt.

Bletzlich hot der Daadi am Tscharlie seinre Heemet gschtoppt. Daadi hot gsaagt: “Tscharlie, des waar besser wie heem zu laafe!:” Der Onkel Tscharlie iss vum Wagge nunner un wie er die Fiess uff die Schtross geduh hot, iss die geel Breih vun de Rockseck raus un iwwer die Hosse nunner geluffe bis in die Schuh nei. Er hot sich gaar

Continued on page 28

Spring Fling

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Touch of Dutch

Continued from page 26

ausgschemmt. Sell waar es letscht Mol as er Oier gschtohle hot!

Zum Aadenke

Demarriye hot mei Telephone gerunge. unn die Schtimm hot mir gsaagt as der Doktor David F. Hottenstein vun Neegscht bei Kutztown un en Glied vum Raat bei der Pennsylvaanisch-deitsche Gesellschaft bletzlich vumme Hazzschlag demarriye gschtarriwe iss. Es dutt uns arrig leed des bekannt zu mache, fer der Doktor Hottenstein waar en guder Mann, en guder Friend, un en gudes Mitglied vun der Gesellschaft. Darf der gude Gott ihn behiede un Achding gewwe uff sei Fraa un Familye.

Bi« zum neegschde Mundaag mach ich yetz Schluss. Duh aa mol schreiwe!

The Dutch Article

“Peter Sulphur-burner”

Number 80:05 Last evening Pit [Peter] had a large pleasure. He was at the trough with Groundhog Lodge Number One on the Lehigh.

The eats were as usual exceptionally good. Pit gathered for himself a goodly list of new stories – but unfortunately can't give them in the “Schtick.” Heffi’s troop [Heffentraeger’s Dutch Band] played really well. The people at the table were all amenable. But afterwards I had the pleasure to get to know John Deischer out of Philadelphia. He was there as a member of the Committee of Lodge Number Three at Temple University. Afterwards he recounted that he is 93 years young. We have given a story from him before in the “Schtick,” but today again want to give one:

Dad Catches The Thief

Years back, in [President] Cleveland's time. Dad went out and worked by the day. Hen Miller owned a large farm on "Tinkel-stone-mountain” about five miles from Pottstown. His Uncle “Charlie” came out every week or two on visitation. Dad worked for Miller.

Dad noticed that Uncle Charlie in the hot weather walked around with his coat on. Before he went home, he walked around in the barn. Dad couldn't understand this, was a bit curious, and decided that he should find out why Uncle Charlie did this. He peered in after him and saw that Uncle

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Charlie hunted the chicken nests and stuck the eggs into his coat pockets.

This made Dad a bit angry, but thought the matter over and decided he would better hold his mouth. A bit later Hen came by and said, “Ben, I thought we would mow the clover tomorrow, got the machine out of the shed and saw that some of the knives were broken. Hitch up the milk-horse and drive to Pottstown to Van Buskirk’s store and purchase new knives. If you go immediately, you’ll get there before he closes the store.

Dad hitched up right away. Said to Uncle Charlie: “Jump in, I'll take you home.” Charlie said, “No, I'll walk.” Dad said, “Nothing doing. On such a hot day you're not going to walk; I’ll leave you off right at your home.”

That was the time when they still made the streets with ditches. So that the rain-water wouldn't wash everything out, every so many feet apart they dug drains. One put the rain-water into the left ditch. the other into the right ditch.

Dad decided this would be the time to show up Uncle Charlie. He gave the horse the whip and every time that he went over a drain, it threw Uncle Charlie into the air, and then bumped him down again.

Presently Dad stopped at Uncle Charlie’s home. Dad said: “Charlie, this was better than walking home!” Uncle Charlie got down from the wagon and when he placed his feet on the street, the yellow juice came out of his coat pockets and ran down over his pants down into his shoes. He was terribly ashamed. That was the last time that he stole eggs!

In Memoriam

This morning my telephone rang, and the voice told me that Doctor David F. Hottenstein from

Touch of Dutch

Continued from page 29

near Kutztown and a member of The Board of the Pennsylvania German Society had died suddenly this morning [Saturday, February 2, 1980] of a heart-attack. We are very sorry to announce this because Doctor Hottenstein was a good man, a good friend, and a good member of the Society. May the good God preserve him and give heed to his wife and family.

Until next Monday I'll now make a conclusion. Do write once!

May 4th, 2024 • 1:00 pm

Doors open at Noon

Kitchen will be open

20 Regular Games

5 Specials

Good Shepherd United Church of Christ

For the Call-Chronicle Newspapers, 101 N. 6th Street, Allentown, Pa. 18101.

[Rev.] Richard Druckenbrod (1929-2003)

[Groundhog Lodge Number One On The Lehigh, Grundsau-Lodsch Nummer Eens An Der Lechaa, the ground lodge mentioned in Druckenbrod’s article above, made history recently by being the first groundhog lodge to allow women to come to the meetings and to become board members. Yes, we Dutch people are not known for changing things too rapidly! Gelle?]

Thursday, May 9, 2024 4pm to 7pm

Friday, May 10, 2024 4pm to 7pm

Saturday, May 11, 2024 9am to 2pm

Come take a chance on baskets filled with all kinds of items, gift cards and other treats. Many wonderful items to choose from!

Tickets - 25 chances for $5.00

Kitchen will be open for food on Saturday. The winners will be picked on the afternoon on Saturday, May 11th once the event

www.indianland.org License # 18--00238 is over. Winners not present will be notified to arrange a pickup time for their prize or prizes.

St. Paul’s UCC of Indianland 787 Almond Road Walnutport, PA 18088 610-767-4572

Slatington Library News

Submitted by Louise Bechtel

Congratulations to Carol Weida who won the Library Book Sale Raffle.

The library will hold a “Night of Recognition” on Tuesday, June 11th at 6:00pm. We will be honoring Rodney Mummey whose name will be placed on the Louise Hallman Memorial Plaque, and eight local businesses and organizations who will be recognized as our Business and Organization partners.

There is one more week of pre-school story hour. Come join the fun on Tuesday, April 23rd at 11:00am at the Library.

The Donald D. Owens Reading Challenge of 2024 began on February 18th. It is open to readers of all ages. Read 10 books write down the titles and receive a raffle ticket. At the end of the challenge, four prizes of $25.00 will be given away. The more tickets you have the greater your chance of winning. The challenge will end on May 31st.

The Book Club is now reading “The Midnight Library” by Matt Haig. They will meet in person or by Zoom at the library on Monday, May 6th at 1:00pm. If you are interested in joining the book club, please contact the library.

The Genealogy Club meets the second Saturday of each month. They will meet for the last time this season on May 11th at 11:00am. They take off for the summer and will resume meeting in the fall.

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.

2024 BASKET RAFFLE

SALEM UCC MOORESTOWN

Fri., April 19 5 pm - 8 pm

Sat., April 20 9 am - 4 pm

Proceeds will benefit the Family Promise Lehigh Valley & L.V. Humane Society

Baskets:

$5/ticket sheet (25 tickets/sheet)

Mega Prizes (value $150+)

50/50 drawing

Pet Food Drive-Bring an item to be entered into a cash prize drawing.

ONLINE MEGA PRIZE RAFFLE

April 1 through April 20

$4/ticket

https://salemmoorestown.chance2win.org

2218 Community Dr., Bath, PA 18014

Email: basketraffsalemucc2218@yahoo.com

• We do Engagement rings and Bridal jewelry

• Estate Jewelry (A huge selection)

• We do repairs in house, remounts, engraving, gifts.

• We buy jewelry (Call for an appt.)

Mako to host ‘Scam Jam’ and shredding events

Submitted by Tracy Polovick

Rep. Zach Mako (R-Lehigh/Northampton) has announced he will host two community events later this month to protect people from becoming victims of fraud.

On Thursday, April 18, in conjunction with Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church’s and Queenship of Mary Catholic Church’s Young at Heart group, a Scam Jam with Fraud Bingo will be held to protect senior citizens from scams. It will be in Assumption Blessed Virgin Mary’s social hall, 2181 Washington Ave., Northampton, from 1 to 3 p.m. RSVP is required by calling 610-7609805 or by visiting www.RepMako.com/events.

The Scam Jam event will include speakers from the Pennsylvania Department of Banking and Securities, the Area Agency on Aging, the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office and the Northampton Police Department.

On Saturday, April 20, in conjunction with the Borough of Northampton, a free shredding event will be held to help safeguard residents against identity theft by having their personal documents securely destroyed. It will be at the Northampton

Memorial Community Center, 1601 Laubach Ave., Northampton, from 10 a.m. to noon. No RSVP is required for this event.

“I’m pleased to host both of these events,” Mako said. “They tackle the issue of becoming a victim of fraud by different avenues. Unfortunately, identity theft and scams continue to be a problem.”

Acceptable items at the shredding event include all paper and manila folders. No more than four bags or boxes per household are permitted, and no businesses, please. Staples or paper clips do not need to be removed. Examples of items that can be brought to the event include documents that contain personal information, including birth dates, Social Security numbers, bank account information and credit card numbers. Information also will be provided about consumer protection and identity theft at the events. Please enter Smith Drive and take Pany Drive to the event. Exit on Laubach Avenue.

For more information, contact Mako’s offices at 610-502-2701 or 610-760-9805, or visit www. RepMako.com.

5th Annual Wine on the River

Saturday, May 4, 2024

11:00 am - 6:00 pm

King Cole Winery

Clever Girl Winery

Lucchi Family Wine Cellars

Benigna’s Creek Vineyard

Talerico’s Tropical Winery

Capra Collina Vineyard

Raw Winery

Bouchette Vineyards

Stone Lake Winery

Essiem’s Apiary

Sleepy Cat Urban Winery

J&P Winery

Wagonhouse Winery

Vineyard Hill Cellars

Baer Memorial Park Lehighton, PA

Meet Murray

Murry is a very sweet dog who gets along well with other dogs. We estimate that he is around 5 years old. Unfortunately, he has tested positive for heartworm, but we will provide treatment to him at no additional cost to you. If you want to adopt him, please note that you must live within an hour of the rescue. To apply, please visit www.furryfeetrescue.com. Our kennel license number is #5890. Furry Feet Rescue Walnutport, PA

furryfeetrescue@yahoo.com (610) 767-7096

Leonardo

Pit Bull Terrier Mix Catasauqua • Adult • Male • Medium

House-Trained: Yes

Health: Vaccinations up to date, spayed / neutered.

Good in a home with other dogs, children.

Meet Leonardo!

This super handsome boy with Sinatra blues is on the market looking for a place to land as his forever home. He is about 1 years old. Professionally trained. Leonardo is a big love bug. He is very well behaved and loves to show his obedience. He is dog and kid friendly, not tested with cats. Takes a little bit to trust men when first introduced but warms up quickly. Loves to play with all kinds of toys and loves walks. Overall just a real lover and wants to be your lap dog. Also he is perfectly crate trained!

Looking to apply to adopt Leonardo? Visit our website to submit an application.

www.outcastrescue.com

Kennel License #16187

Outcast Rescue PO Box 12

Catasauqua, PA 18032

outcastrescue@gmail.com

Proceeds from Twisted Purse Bingo goes to this 2 day seminar and benefits K9 Officers in the event something catastrophic happens to their K9 Partner and they need to render immediate aid until additional help arrives. Door

Oh Good Lord, It’s Election Time Again

submitted by Harold ‘Nick” Seyfried

Junk mail, nuisance telephone calls time again, TV ads that never end

Candidates smile so big and shake your hand

Speaking about issues they don’t understand Candidates say - “Vote of me I’ll lower your taxes

I’ll give you better health care and hairy chest waxes

Better health benefits for Green Card holders and higher social security for those growing

older

I’ll pay off your student loans and put a tax on your phone

I’ll lower gas prices and heating oil”

Just listening to those lies makes my blood boil

We fought for our independence because we didn’t want to pay taxes to England

How easy they forget, history will repeat itself in this country we love so grand

So, candidates don’t tell me what you want to

Show me your accomplishments before I vote for you

I won’t pull your lever, I won’t check your box, to do this you must think I’m as dumb as an ox

We need new candidates with new ideals, not empty promises from some low-flying heels

So, I will vote because it is more than a privilege, it is more than my right

I’ll have the power and the might to get rid of the losers and finish the fight

Doors open at 4 p.m. • Kitchen will be open. Drawing starts promptly at 5:45 p.m.

Admission ticket cost $7.00 which includes 25 chances. Extra tickets for sale at the door.

For advance tickets, please call Becky at 610-417-1575 or the church at 610-767-5554. Must be present to win!

August 31 & Sept 1- Two Big Nights. Labor Day Weekend. Dusk till Dawn Marathon. 5 Movies to be announced. 78th Anniversary Open weekends only until mid-June when we open every night.

Adults—$12.00. Children 4 to 12 yrs old—$8.00.

Coming Events- (at the present time)

June 15th- 78th Anniversary Celebration with Fireworks at 9:30 pm.

Rain Date - June 22nd

Pictured here is the former Knappy’s Service Center in 1970. It was located at the corner of Route 873 and Main Street in Slatington, PA. Shown in the photo is Allen Knappenberger pumping gas in his 1968 Pontiac. In 1970, the national average gas price was 36 cents a gallon. The building where Knappy’s was in is now IDWraps. Special thanks to Allen Knappenberger for the info.

Two sizes available for purchase

4” x 8” paver – 3 engraved lines with 13 characters per line - $75

8” x 8” paver – 6 engraved lines with 13 characters per line - $150

Additional information, sample pavers, and “BUY A BRICK PAVER” Application Forms available at www.konkretefoundation.org Perfect for Mother’s Day, Graduations, Birthdays & Father’s Day!

Purchasing a brick paver is a wonderful way of honoring someone while supporting the Northampton Area Konkrete Kids Educational Foundation and K-12 students throughout the District.

Questions? Contact Darrell Crook at 484-226-0874

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY

Happy 50th Anniversary!

May 18, 2024

Sandy & Stan Love, from your maid-of-honor!

Mother’s Day Dinner

Sunday, May 12th, 2024 • 11am-3pm Family Style Menu

Ham, Chicken, Filling, Mashed Potatoes, Corn, String Beans, Creamed Cabbage, Ice Cream Adults-$20 • Senior Citizens-$17.50 • Children (5-12)-$10 • 4 & Under Free

Citizen’s Fire Company 3922 Main Street, Slatedale

For More Information Call: Michelle 610-760-9652 or Tiff 484-866-0173 or go to www.CitizensFireCoSlatedale.com

Take out will be available. NO RESERVATIONS Taken parties will be seated together, so please meet your party before coming into the fire company- thank you!

BASKET SOCIAL

Citizens Fire Co. #1 Slatedale, 3922 Main Street, Slatedale

Saturday, June 1st 10 to 3pm

Sunday, June 2nd 12 to 3pm

Winners will be announced, Sunday, June 2nd @ 3pm Kitchen will be open

For info or if you would like to donate a basket call: Michelle Schramel at 610-760-9652, Tiff Yesik 484-866-0173 or Tami Dimmig at 610-767-0130

Hall Available for Your Special Occasion Seating for up to 150 Guests

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

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____________________ Roosevelt Demo Club Danielsville, Lehigh Township, PA 610-767-2664 Have a Bowling Party Today! Six Lanes Available Available for Members & Non-Members We also have catering and a private bar in the hall & bowling alley! Call 610-767-2664 to Schedule Your Event

Select Gender

q Male

q Female

Select the age bracket that you fall under

q 18 – 29

q 30 - 39

q 40 - 49

q 50 – 59

q 60 - 69

q 70 +

What is your household income?

q $0 to $19,999

q $20,000 to $39,999

q $40,000 to $59,999

q $60,000 to $79,999

q $80,000 to $99,999

q $100,000 +

What is your highest level of education?

q High School Diploma or GED

q Associates Degree

q Bachelors Degree

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What is your Zip Code _________

What do you look for when you open the Town & Country Gazette. _________________________

Where do you usually get your copy of the Town & Country Gazette

q Grocery Store

q Mini-Mart / Gas Station

q Restaurant

q Pass Along from Friend

q Subscriber Mailed to Home

q Other ___________________________________

How long do you typically keep your issue of the Town & Country Gazette?

q 1 Day q 2 – 4 Days

q One week q Longer than one week

Does the Town & Country Gazette make it easy for you to find what’s happening around the area?

q Yes q No

What is your favorite part of the Town & Country Gazette. _____________

Do our ads allow you to make decisions to purchase a product or service?

q Yes, I respond to your ads often

q I sometimes respond to ads

q I rarely respond to ads

q No, I never respond to ads

Please elaborate on your answer ______________

Do you prefer to see ads in:

q Black & White

q Color

What features or articles would you add to the Town & Country Gazette

q Decorating Tips

q Health Related Topics

q Fashion

q Sports

q Other: ___________________________________

If you were publisher for a day, what would you include in the next issue of the Town & Country Gazette? _____________________________________

Include your e-mail if you wish to receive the new Town & Coutnry Gazette newsletter

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

Barn/Garage Sale, Saturday, May 4th 8 a.m. 2 p.m. 1026 Neffs Laury’s Road, Laury’s Station. Anything and Everything: lumber, hardware, tools, small appliances, glassware, afghans, records, clocks. (5/2)

CASH BINGO Sunday, May 5 at Emerald Fire Co., 7748 Penn St., Slatington. Doors open 11 a.m., bingo starts 1 p.m. Kitchen open, BYOB. 50/50, small basket raffle. $30 admission includes 20 regular games, 5 specials and door prize ticket. All proceeds benefit Northern Lehigh Halloween Parade. For tickets, call 484-225-2714. (5/2)

Flea Market & Craft Fair Don Laine Family Campground 790 57 Dr. Palmerton May 18, 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. Tables $6 or 2 for $10 Rain or Shine, food available Call 610-3813381 (5/2)

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)

Walker, excellent condition, folds up, used once, $125. Call 484-6234336 (4/18)

Dining Furniture: Solid wood, counter height table with four chairs and matching server. Asking $350, call 484-629-4012 (4/18)

Services Available

Master Electrician since 1987. No job too small. Reasonable prices. Free quotes. Todd Haring. 484-9518624. PA#093516 (4/18)

Sergey Tile & Marble: 25+ years in business. We offer tile installation, bathrooms, kitchens plus more. Senior Discount, call for details 484-794-0756 or text Sergy 215669-5032 (5/16)

Movie Trivia

Receive 2 admit one adults to Becky’s. One timeduring the 2024 season.

What is Civil War star Kirsten Dunst’s famous Marvel super hero role?

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)

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 (7/4)

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 (6/6)

The Next Gazette comes out on May 2nd and the Deadline is April 24th. Don’t miss it!

Send your answers to: Town & Country Gazette, P.O. Box A, Walnutport, PA 18088

Call 610-767-9600 for info on how to receive your tickets. All submissions must be received by April 26, 2024

It’s Springtime in Walnutport

submitted by Harold ‘Nick” Seyfried

It’s Springtime in the Rockies and they still have snow

Here in Walnutportm PA we are still feeling the cold

It’s gettign warmer you can bet

There are plenty of people who are on the tow path

And they are walking their pets

Oh Look! There’s a robin, a cardinal and some doves

I see white geese migrating and honking above

Look at those flowers that bloom in the spring, The crocus, the lilies, and the tulips

The apple and cherry blossoms are such a beautiful thing

The school sports, baseball, soccer, track and field

The warm sun shining on my face makes for a

Sunday April 28th 11am-3pm

$5.00 For 1 Ticket=25 or 5 Tickets For $20

pleasant feel

Getting ready the boat and rid of the remote

Is a wonderful thing

Fishing, hiking and camling

Look out! Those bees can sting

Going to the zoo or a dandelion dinner

Riding on a bike is always a winner

Church festivals, fire company carnivals soon will be starting

Having a garden party and a spring picnic,

or tuning the lawn mower is awlays a trick

Take a walk with a loved one while holding their hand

Have heart to heart talks now isn’t that grand

Go ahead smell the roses the blooming flowers in the air

The garden, Schoo! Achoo! and a sniffle

There are allergies everywhere

So high school girls go ahead and find your perfect dress

Prom season is coming and you will want to look your best

So I hope I encourage you to enjoy your spring

The days are getting longer what a beautiful thing

Goodbye Winter! Welcome Spring!