On Sunday, July 27, just after 8:30 p.m., a fire broke out in the 2500 block of Windy Lane in Moore Township.
Klecknersville Rangers Volunteer Fire Company, along with their first alarm mutual-aid companies, responded to the dwelling fire that was in the attic crawl space.
Emergency crews were on the scene for three hours.
The ranch home was determined to be uninhabitable, displacing a family of four. They are being assisted by the Red Cross.
No injuries were reported, and two pets did escape from the home. The State Police Fire Marshal is investigating the cause of the fire.
East Allen Township approves Intergovernmental Agreement for Township Line Road grant
By KERI LINDENMUTH
During their July 24 workshop meeting, the East Allen Township Board of Supervisors unanimously approved an intermunicipal cooperation agreement with Lower Nazareth Township, advancing a joint effort to secure grant funding for future repairs to Township Line Road.
Lower Nazareth approached East Allen last month with a request to collaborate on a grant application for the reconstruction of the shared roadway. The municipalities are seeking $2,077,838.40 from the Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development’s
Multimodal Transportation Grant Fund to fully reconstruct the road, which currently lacks a structural base and proper stormwater drainage.
Under the agreement, Lower Nazareth Township will submit the grant application, prepare bid specifications, and oversee project administration in conjunction with the East Allen Township engineer.
A decision on the grant is expected in 2026, with construction projected to begin in 2027.
In other news, East Allen Township supervisors have also
Continued on page 5
Northampton School Board Advances Major facility Plans amid Ongoing Debate Over Moore Elementary Closure
By SAVANNAH BROWN
The Northampton Area School District took pivotal steps toward a significant reorganization of its facilities during the Board of Education meeting held Monday, July 21.
While the board affirmed that construction on the new East Allen Elementary School is progressing on schedule, the majority of the evening was dominated by a passionate debate over the planned closure of four district buildings for the 2026–27 school year with the primary focus being Moore Elementary School.
In a major move, the board voted to close Franklin Elementary School, the District Administration Building and the Washington Technology Center following the 2025–26 academic year with each of the three buildings being listed for sale.
Moore Elementary School, however, will be treated differently. Although it too will close during the 2026–27 school year, the district will retain ownership of the building and the surrounding property. The intention, according to board members and district leadership, is to reopen the school at a future date to be determined.
The decision was not reached lightly.
Directors unanimously approved the closure and listing for sale of Franklin Elementary, the Administration Building and the Washington Technology Center.
The vote to close Moore Elementary while preserving it for
Penn Dixie Cement: Part 3 of 6
In this third column, I am “looking back” to the Penn Dixie Cement Company when it was one of the largest cement plants in the area. Their three plants in Bath and Nazareth provided employment for many cement workers. The late Raymond Houser, with his father, William, jointly served the company for over a century. In past columns Raymond recalled the company’s glory days.
Raymond started in the bag house at age 15, and by hard work he would become the plant’s chief chemist.
In 1932, the Penn Dixie decided to add a research department to their laboratory. Their mission was to improve the quality of their cement and develop new uses. Mr. Houser was assigned to the new unit.
The company received notice that New York City was planning a massive water project. They were to construct an aqueduct from the Catskills in Upstate New York to New York City, but the company who wanted to bid had to prove they could meet the city’s stringent specifications. One can
only imagine the competition for such a lucrative contract. At one time, 30 cement companies called the Lehigh Valley home. Mr. Houser was given the task to meet these standards. Talk about pressure on the job! The late Mr. Houser recalled, “General Manager Fred Newhard came to me and said Penn Dixie had six months to conform to the city’s request; he knew we could do it. He said, ‘Ray, get on it right away.’” Ray continued, “New York City sent an inspector who watched our every move. I worked long hours going to work in the morning, coming home for supper, going back to the lab and some nights sleeping on one of the desks. I checked the stone, clinker, kilns and conducted hundreds of tests. Some-
Photo by Newsworking
Plant No. 5; contributed photo
By HOME NEWS STAFF
ages, featuring face painting, touch-a-truck, live music and much more.
Photo of the Month Police Blotter
Retail theft at Walmart
On July 26, officers from Colonial Regional Police Dept. were dispatched to Walmart at 3722 Easton Nazareth Highway for a report of a theft in progress.
Officers arrived on scene and were met in the Asset Protection office with staff and the actor, 32-year-old Teonie Stehly, of Wind Gap.
Walmart staff advised that Stehly had selected numerous charging cables and beauty items and entered the restroom with them, and then exited the restroom a short time later with the items no longer visible.
Boxes for said items were located in the restrooms.
Stehly then proceeded past all points of sale without rendering proper payment, and was then stopped by Walmart Asset Protection in the vestibule.
Stehly was issued a non-traffic citation and released.
Community Invited to Moore Township Police Department’s Inaugural National Night Out
By HOME NEWS STAFF
The community is invited to attend Moore Township Police Department’s inaugural participation in National Night Out, an annual community-building event that promotes neighborhood camaraderie and policecommunity partnerships.
The event will be held on Tuesday, Aug. 5 from 6-9 p.m. at the Moore Township Recreation Center, located on Park Side Manor between Monocacy Drive and English Road.
The event will be fun for all
Domestic
On July 27 at 3:34 a.m., CRPD officers were dispatched
to Bridle Path Road in Bethlehem for a domestic incident. Upon arrival, CRPD officers had contact with a 46-year-old woman and a 44-year-old man.
Through investigation it was learned a pizza box was thrown by the man at the woman. Both individuals were charged with disorderly conduct.
Retail theft at Target
On July 26 at 7:30 p.m., CRPD was dispatched to Target for a report of a retail theft.
Upon arrival, Asset Protection relayed to officers that 35-yearold James Bacon McCombs, of Texas, was watched through CCTV footage as he took and concealed items. He was then watched as he exited the store, passing all points of purchase. Asset Protection then showed CRPD the footage.
Bacon McCombs was cited for retail theft.
Retail theft at Target
On July 26, CRPD officers were dispatched to Target in Lower Nazareth Township for a male stealing.
Officers arrived on scene and met with Target AP, who advised
re-produced, copied, published either in whole or in part, without the consent of the Publisher(s).
Tubing on the Delaware near Easton, by Elaine Ciba
Atlas Cement Company Memorial Museum- Open second and fourth Sunday through September from 1-3 p.m. at 1401 Laubach Ave., Northampton.
Bath Area Food Bank- Distributes food second Tuesday of each month, starting around 9:30 a.m. on lower level of St. John's Lutheran Church in Bath, 206 E. Main St. Please do not arrive prior to 9:30 a.m. due to safety reasons.
Bath Borough Summer Splash Night- Thursday, Aug. 7 at Firefighters Field, 300 N. Chestnut St., Bath, from 6-7:30 p.m. All are welcome, at-your-own-risk event.
Bath Free Market- Second Saturday through September from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Keystone Park. Donate items you no longer need or find your next treasure. No large furniture or TVs accepted.
Bath Lions Club- Meets first and third Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. at My Place Pizza in Bath. Guests/new members welcome. Email lionsbathpa@gmail.com with questions.
Bath Museum- Open third Saturday Jan-Nov. and first Saturday in Dec., from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 121 S. Walnut St., Bath. Tours welcome, volunteers needed, email bathpamuseum@gmail.com or message Bath Museum on Facebook.
Bath Old Home Weekend- Thursday, Sept. 18- Sunday, Sept. 21; all events at Ciff Cowling Field. Schedule on Borough of Bath Facebook.
Community Dinner at The Table- First and third Tuesdays of the month at 5:30 p.m. at 1769 Newport Ave., Northampton. All are welcome.
Dementia Support Group- Held third Thursday every month from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., 2801 Emrick Blvd., Bethlehem. Designed for families and caregivers of dementia patients.
East Allen Township Historical Society- Meets third Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. at 5344 NorBath Blvd., Northampton.
East Allen Township Open Space and Farmland Preservation Committee- Meets third Thursday of the month at 7 p.m. at 5344 Nor-Bath Blvd., Northampton. New committee members welcome. Easton Farmers Market- Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Scott Park, Easton.
Gov. Wolf Hist. Society- Tours of historic buildings, grounds and new museum on third Saturday AprilNov. from 1 to 3 p.m. 6600 Jacksonville Road, Bath.
Helping Homeless Veterans- Weave mats for homeless vets every second and fourth Wednesday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Prepping for weaving every first and third Wednesday noon to 3 p.m., Mountain View Wesleyan Church, 1001 Deemer Road, Bath. Call 610-837-1190 FMI. Leave message.
Horner's Cemetery Historical Society Tours- As the 250th anniversary of our country approaches, meet the people who contributed to its founding. Tours by appointment. All welcome. Free gift with every tour. Call Peggy at 610-984-4532.
Iglesia Pentecostal Church Food Bank- Open to the public every first and third Monday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 2459 E. Scenic Drive, Bath.
Moore Twp. Assoc. for Families in Need- Meets second Tuesday of every month at 7 p.m. at Covenant United Methodist Church, 2715 Mountain View Drive, Bath.
Moore Twp. Community Days- Aug. 15 and 16 at Moore Twp. Rec. Center; music, beer, clams, fireworks and more.
Morningstar Memory Cafe by Senior Solutions- An opportunity for people with dementia and their care partners to gather for fun, socialization and refreshments; meets second and fourth Thursday from 10 a.m. to noon at Advent Moravian Church, 3730 Jacksonville Road, Bethlehem. For registration, call 610-258-0700.
Nazareth Farmers Market- Open Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. through October in the circle.
Northampton Area Food Bank- Food distribution first three Thursdays from 5 to 7 p.m. and second and third Saturday 9 to 11:30 a.m. 1601 Canal St.
Northampton Borough Crime Watch Meeting- Typically held second Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Northampton Recreation Center.
Northampton Farmers Market- Open Tuesdays through September from 3-6 p.m. at Municipal Park.
Siegfried Railroad Station Museum- Open third Sunday through October from 1-4 p.m., West 21st Street (Route 329), Northampton.
Warehouse Valley: A Changing Landscape Exhibition closing Soon
Submitted by NCHGS Hurry in to the Sigal Museum to enjoy Warehouse Valley: A Changing Landscape exhibition before it closes on Aug. 3. The popular exhibition is an exploration of the history of the landscape of the Lehigh Valley. It compares important 19th - 20th century landscape paintings from
our museum collection to modern photographs from the exact same location. This "before and after" format shows the Lehigh Valley as a place of rapid social and industrial change.
Warehouse Valley: A Changing Landscape is sponsored by the County of Northampton, The Wildrick Family, HelenBeth Vilcek, Charles and Judith Dickerson and Kressler, Wolff & Miller. The Sigal Museum is located at 342 Northampton St., Easton. For more information, visit sigalmuseum.org/visit.
Continued from page 2
that the male fled in a blue pickup truck. Target staff relayed that the man selected $177.90 worth of trading cards and attempted to leave the store without rendering payment. Target staff also relayed that the man entered the store on July 25 and earlier in the day on July 26 and conducted similar thefts, valued at $261.92 and $157.91, respectively.
The total for all three thefts was $597.73, of which $419.83 is owed to Target in restitution.
Officers investigated the incident and identified 37-year-old Matthew Lane, of Stroudsburg,
the owner of the vehicle and actor in the thefts. Lane is charged via criminal complaint through MDJ Capobianco’s office for his involvement.
Theft at Wawa
On July 21, CRPD responded to Wawa on Jandy Boulevard for a report of a theft of a wallet.
The victim stated she left her wallet lying next to a food kiosk and left the store. When she returned, it was gone.
CRPD reviewed security footage and observed a male pick the wallet up and leave with it. The man’s photo was posted to the CRPD Facebook page, looking for the public’s assistance in identifying the man.
On July 25, CRPD received a
phone call from 53-year-old Ramon Escobar Jr. who stated he was the man pictured, and that he wanted to return a wallet he found at Wawa.
CRPD was able to positively identify Escobar as the man in the video that took the wallet.
Escobar was charged with one count of theft of lost/mislaid property.
Counterfeit inspection Certificate
On June 27 at 8:15 p.m., CRPD officers were on patrol in Lower Nazareth Township and stopped an orange 2000 Mack tri-axle style dump truck that was being operated without a registration plate displayed.
The driver, identified as Alan
Northampton County Senior Centers
For more information and additional senior centers in Northampton County, visit www.northamptoncounty.org.
Cherryville- Open Monday-Friday 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., 4131 Lehigh Drive, Cherryville. FMI call 610-767-2977.
Lower Nazareth- Open Monday-Friday 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., 306 Butztown Road, Bethlehem. FMI call 610-297-3464.
Nazareth- Open Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., 15 S. Wood St., Nazareth. FMI call 610-759-8255.
Northampton- Open Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., 902 Lincoln Ave., Northampton. FMI call 610-262-4977.
WANTED VENDORS, CRAFTERS & FOOD TRUCKS FOR MOORE TOWNSHIP COMMUNITY DAYS
Friday, Aug. 15
Saturday, Aug. 16
Applications available online at Mooretownship.org under Forms and Documents Or call Lois Kerbacher at 610-759-9449 ext. 5
August Friday Specials
Schnitler, was found to be operating the vehicle while DUI suspended, as well as operating the vehicle with numerous safety violations, without proper commercial licensing, and with a counterfeit inspection certificate.
The vehicle owner, 51-year-old Frederick Kelly, of Sellersville, who arrived on scene during the incident, advised police he gave Schnitler permission to operate the vehicle knowing his license status, as well as knowing that the vehicle had numerous safety issues and was bearing the counterfeit sticker.
Kelly is charged with possession of counterfeit inspection certificate knowing it to be counterfeit, as well as numerous associated traffic violations.
Motor vehicle accident/ DUI
On June 23, CRPD responded to a report of an accident in the 400 block of Bridle Path Road. Upon arrival, police found a dumpster on the side of the street that was struck by a vehicle and pushed up onto the curb and sidewalk area and a disabled vehicle in the roadway.
Police spoke with 56-year-old Stephen Zietts, of Bethlehem, who relayed that he was operating the vehicle and did not see the dumpster and struck it.
As police spoke with Zietts, they detected signs that he may have been impaired.
Zietts was placed under arrest for suspicion of DUI. He was
$12
transported to the Bethlehem DUI Center. Test results indicated that his BAC was 0.177%.
Charges have been filed through DJ Zumas’ office against Zietts for two counts of DUI and one summary traffic violation.
Motor vehicle accident/ DUI
On June 29 at 11:40 p.m., CRPD responded to the area of Bath Pike and the Route 22 West on/off ramps for a report of a motor vehicle accident involving two vehicles.
Upon arrival, police spoke to both parties involved.
Thomas Reinhart, 45, of Bethlehem, stated he was attempting to make a U-turn and struck the other vehicle. As police spoke to Reinhart, they noticed signs of impairment. Reinhart was transported to the hospital for an evaluation of minor injuries he sustained as a result of the incident. While at the hospital, Reinhart provided samples that were sent to the lab in order to determine his BAC. Lab results indicated his BAC was 0.314%.
He has been charged with two summary traffic violations and two counts of DUI.
The driver of the other vehicle was not injured and both vehicles had to be towed from the scene.
Resisting arrest/ Disorderly conduct/ Public drunkenness
On July 8 at 4 p.m., CRPD officers were dispatched to Giant in Lower Nazareth Township for a male appearing to be intoxicated and causing a disturbance.
Officers arrived on scene and met with Giant staff and the male, identified as 44-year-old
BATH AREA
Police Blotter
Continued from page 4
Arlon Horn, of Nazareth, in the dairy aisle.
Giant staff advised that Horn was stumbling over and smelled of alcohol, and was going up to employees and customers and annoying them.
Upon contact with officers, Horn smelled of the odor of alcohol and refused to cease his yelling and irate behavior upon command.
After Horn was arrested and in custody, he continued his behavior, kicking at officers and slumping to the ground, refusing to get into a police vehicle.
Horn is charged with resisting arrest, disorderly conduct and public drunkenness.
Driving with Suspended license
On June 27, CRPD officers were on patrol in Lower Nazareth Township and stopped an orange 2000 Mack tri-axle style dump truck being operated without a
registration plate displayed.
The driver was identified as 51-year-old Alan Schnitler, of Bethlehem.
A driver history was conducted for Schnitler, which revealed four prior convictions of driving while DUI suspended.
Schnitler is charged with driving while DUI suspended third or subsequent offense, as well as other traffic violations.
$750,000 for the structure. However, Township Manager Brent Green said a formal bidding process may result in better pricing.
Supervisors agreed that securing a more cost-effective bid was preferable to accelerating the construction timeline.
“When we rush bids, you get rushed returns,” Green said. Bid specifications are expected to take about three months, with construction likely to begin in the spring.
approved several upgrades to the township’s Public Works building at 7347 Driftwood Road. The building, which will soon receive a new roof and windows, also requires additional storage for road barricades, road signs and other weather-sensitive equipment.
Supervisors authorized the township engineer to prepare bid specifications for a new 9,000-square-foot pole building that will include electrical service. The township previously received a preliminary estimate of
Additionally, supervisors authorized the township to solicit estimates not to exceed $22,000 for spray foam insulation. The building currently has insulation from the 1990s that was improperly installed, resulting in condensation and moisture that can damage equipment.
The next Board of Supervisors meeting will be Thursday, Aug. 14 at 7 p.m.
School Board
future use passed in a 6–3 vote, with Board President Kristin Soldridge, Director Josh Harris and Director Brian McCulloch opposing the closure.
For many in attendance, the debate over Moore Elementary went beyond finances or infrastructure—it touched on deep community ties and a longstanding battle over what role the school should play in the district’s future.
Director Josh Harris set the
tone early by requesting that the board vote on Moore Elementary’s closure separately from the other buildings.
Director Doug Vaughn took it a step further, proposing that each building be considered on its own merits. The procedural motion passed unanimously, paving the way for the discussion that followed.
Director Brian McCulloch, who has represented Moore Township for several years and has frequently advocated for the continued operation of the local
elementary school, offered a rationale for his “no” vote.
“I believe that those other buildings should be closed. I just personally do not believe Moore should be closed. And I also do have a loyalty to the people that I represent in Moore Township, and it does sadden me that on this issue, I personally don't believe that Moore will ever open again. And so, I'm not going to sit here and vote yes on that item, knowing that in my heart,
Northampton Borough Police Report
JULY 13
Traffic stop in the unit block of W. 21st St., the 1400 block of Main St., Canal St. and W. 21st St., and E. 21st St. and Washington Ave. Traffic stops were conducted.
DUI, Main St. and E. 21st Street. Report of a suspected DUI.
Assist person in the 1800 block of Main St. Officers assist a female.
Civil matter in the 500 block of Washington Ave., and the 2100 block of Lincoln Ave. Reports of civil issues.
Check area, W. 14th St. and Canal St. Request to check the area.
Juvenile problem in the 1500 block of Laubach Ave. Report of a juvenile issue.
JULY
14
Disturbance in the 1000 block of Main St. Report of a disturbance.
Traffic stop, E. 4th St. and Howertown Rd. A traffic stop was conducted.
EMS ambulance assist in the 2100 block of Washington Ave., and the 100 block of Main St. Officers assist EMS with the transports of females.
Civil matter in the 2300 block of Washington Ave. Report of a civil issue.
SEPTICSERVICE
JULY 15
Check area in the 500 block of E. 21st St. Request to check the area.
Check person/welfare in the 2000 block of Laubach Ave. Request to check the welfare of a male.
Traffic stop in the 1300 block of Canal St., and Main St. and E. 7th St. Traffic stops were conducted.
EMS ambulance assist in the 600 block and the 1200 block of Main St., and the unit block of Lerchenmiller Dr. Officers assist EMS with the transports of females.
Odor complaint, Smith Ln. Officers assist Northampton Fire Department with an odor complaint.
Non-reportable accident in the 2000 block of Main St., and Canal St. and Laubach Ave. Reports of accidents involving two vehicles.
Disturbance in the 1300 block of Newport St. Report of a disturbance.
Domestic in the 100 block of Main St. between a male and a female.
Neighbor complaint in the 500 block of E. 9th St. Report of a neighbor issue.
JULY
16
EMS ambulance assist in the 2200 block of Main St. Officers assist EMS with the transport of a female.
Disturbance in the 1400 block of Washington Ave., and the 1300 block of Stewart St. Reports of disturbances.
Juvenile problem in the 400 block of E. 5th St. Report of a juvenile issue.
Check person/welfare in the 1500 block of Laubach Ave. Request to check the welfare of a male.
Traffic stop, Laubach Ave. and Main St., and the 1000 block of Main St. Traffic stops were con-
Township’s Community Days
ducted.
Fire call in the 300 block of E. 19th St. Officers assist Northampton Fire Department.
Suspicious person in the 1600 block of Lincoln Ave. Report of a suspicious male.
JULY 17
EMS ambulance assist in the 300 block of E. 12th St., and the 1700 block of Main St. Officers assist EMS with the transports of males.
Non-reportable accident in the 100 block of Lilac Ct. involving two vehicles.
Traffic stop, W. 9th St., Main St. and W. 21st St., the 1000 block of Main St., W. 21st St. and Center St., Main St. and E. 9th St., and Main St. and Laubach Ave. Traffic stops were conducted.
Civil matter in the 500 block of Banks St. Report of a civil issue.
Check person/welfare in the 800 block of Main St. Request to
Myster Tree and Shrub Service
NORTHAMPTON AREA
Northampton
Log
The Northampton Fire Department responded to the following incidents within Northampton Borough during the week of July 20.
Station 42 – Northampton Borough
Station 45 – Allen Township
Station 5 – Coplay Borough
JULY 20
Stations 42, 45: 1800 block Lincoln Avenue. Elevator rescue.
JULY 22
Station 42: Maple and Chestnut streets. Oil spill cleanup.
JULY 23
Stations 42, 45, 5: 1700 block Main Street. Automatic fire alarm.
JULY 25
Station 42: East 24th and Main streets. Wires down.
Station 42: 2100 block Hokendauqua Avenue. Ambulance assist.
Station 42: East Ninth Street and Washington Avenue. Wires down.
School Board
Continued from page 5
I know Moore is never going to open again and those other three buildings should be closed. So, I also can't sit here and vote no to close those other three build-
ings,” said McCulloch.
McCulloch also stated that his opposition was largely symbolic as a statement to his constituents that he had fulfilled his promise to advocate for their school, even if the outcome was likely already decided.
Director Parker Flamisch responded by acknowledging McCulloch’s perspective while raising practical concerns.
“If we do vote no on closing Moore Township right now, what is the backup plan?” Flamisch asked. “Because we've already decided... there is not enough money to retain Moore Elementary and have it open and also have the other buildings in the district open as well.”
The two directors engaged in an exchange about responsibility, planning and past mistakes. McCulloch maintained that a workable plan to keep Moore Elementary open had once existed, opining that the plan had been “sabotaged” by previous and current board members.
“What sealed the fate of Moore was 329,” he said, referring to the new elementary school under construction on Route 329. “When you factor in the interest, it’s almost $130 million. That’s the problem.”
He argued that prior school boards had failed to honor the will of the voters and had committed the district to an unsustainable financial trajectory by proceeding with the Route 329 project despite community opposition.
“I don’t want to rehash the past because we’ve been through it a million times,” McCulloch said. “But that’s what sealed Moore’s fate. Previous boards did not respect the will of the people.”
Flamisch responded by emphasizing his concern about unintended consequences of resisting the closure, especially without a clear alternative plan.
“I get that mistakes were made in the past and I understand their consequences, but I don’t think that we should be making further mistakes,” Flamisch stated.
Superintendent Joseph Kovalchik provided a detailed overview of the district’s next steps, offering both context for the closures and a look at what comes next. While acknowledging the emotional impact of the decision, he emphasized the broader strategic vision guiding the district’s actions.
“I’ve said this publicly for years, and I’ll continue to say it; I truly believe this district will need five elementary schools,” Kovalchik said. “I’ve always said I’m not quite sure when that will be, but you will need five.”
He pointed to ongoing residential development throughout the region, citing growth “on the top of Cherryville Road, right on the border of Northampton or Lehigh Township, whether it be in East Allen Township, where the million-dollar homes are going in, or whether the construction that’s just begun on the Willowbrook property of the 500 units that are going in there.”
“Now the question is, how many kids are going to come in and how fast is that going to happen?” Kovalchik said. “Who knows? I don’t think anybody has
that answer.”
Regarding Moore Elementary’s closure, Kovalchik reiterated that it marks the beginning of a complex, multi-step process governed by state regulations.
“When you close or open buildings, you have to go through PDE,” he said, referring to the Pennsylvania Department of Education. “There’s a process ... and we need to follow it.”
He also detailed the district’s redistricting efforts, which have been in development for more than a year. The redistricting plan, set to be finalized and presented in the coming months, will reshape attendance boundaries across all remaining elementary schools. That process includes not only analyzing enrollment numbers, but also addressing is-
Continued on page 8
Looking Back
Continued from page 1
times it was very frustrating, but we had to meet the deadline. Three weeks before the deadline I told Mr. Newhard I think we have it. After working alone for almost six months, it was a wonderful feeling to be successful.”
Penn Dixie could now bid on the project. Their bid was approved by the City of New York. The Bath plants produced cement for years for the gargantuan project. The aqueduct was so large you could drive an automobile through it. Each day a string of bulk railroad cars left Bath for New York. This provided much needed employment for area workers. The aqueduct continues to serve the residents
of New York City with high quality water. I wonder how many folks realized the scope of the project and the role of the Penn Dixie Cement Company? It certainly was a project to be proud of. The water still flows to New York City, but the hardy cement workers who labored there and the company they worked for are gone, as are many of our other companies.
We will continue the Penn Dixie story in two weeks. See you then!
School Board
Continued from page 7
sues like transportation logistics, building capacity and neighborhood continuity.
Kovalchik revealed that the redistricting plan will be shared
BOROUGH OF BATH
CONSTRUCTION UPDATE FOR THE MONTH OF AUGUST
West Main Street between Mulberry and South Chestnut Streets West Northampton Street between West Main Street and South Chestnut Streets
During typical construction hours of 7am to 5 pm, you may experience parking restrictions, road closures, detours, and traffic delays.
If you are a current UGI Utilities natural gas customer, you will experience brief service interruptions during construction and will need to provide access inside your property to relight your equipment.
If you are interested in converting to natural gas service during the construction process, please contact UGI as soon as possible. (www.ugi.com)
For any questions or concerns, contact UGI: 1-800-276-2722 Or constructionprojects@ugi.com
with the board in September and distributed to parents around early October. That timing, he said, is essential to giving families time to prepare for the changes coming in the 2026–27 school year, while not allowing future concerns to overshadow the upcoming academic year.
Moreover, he also emphasized that even during the year Moore Elementary is closed, the building will still require ongoing maintenance and operational funding. Discussions about how to best utilize Moore Elementary—both during its closure and when it eventually reopens—will begin with the Facilities Committee in August.
Kovalchik was also clear that a final decision on Moore Elementary’s future use is unlikely before winter. He expects the board to reach a conclusion by the end of 2025, after exploring various options for how the district can get the most value from the property, whether that be financially or educationally.
As for the three buildings directors voted to close, Kovalchik explained there will be about seven or eight different options the board can consider when selling district buildings that they will have to consider in the coming months.
He also praised district staff for their commitment to cost-efficiency, especially when it comes to equipping the new East Allen Elementary School.
Operations and Maintenance Director Jonathan Jenny has been working to identify what furniture and fixtures can be repurposed, reducing the need for new purchases.
“We’re not going to just go purchase every new desk and every new light fixture we can get our hands on,” Kovalchik said.
Directors Vaughn and Flamisch later expressed their support for the redistricting process and facility realignment, while also recognizing the difficult position the district finds itself in financially.
The future of Moore Elementary and the fate of the buildings being sold will likely remain a central topic for the board and the community throughout the
coming months. With residential development on the rise and enrollment projections uncertain, board members must weigh longterm needs against short-term realities.
The district’s redistricting plan will be presented to the board in September, and the Facilities
Committee is expected to bring forward building-use recommendations by year’s end.
The next Northampton School Board meeting will take place on Monday, Aug. 11 at 6:30 p.m. in the high school auditorium, located at 1619 Laubach Ave.
16th Annual Great Bath Duck Race winners
Announced
Damien (center) was the grand prize winner, taking home $250 cash.
No. 39 Damien No. 117 Dorothy S. No. 38 Tony C. No. 206 Josh No. 212 Alicia W. No. 26 Jennifer C. No. 91 Bond No. 92 Bond No. 184 Melinda H. No. 222 Kim K. No. 215 Alicia W. No. 103 Scindee F. No. 221 Angie
No. 64 Donny L. No. 43 Marcia H. No. 243 David O. No. 27 Susan G. No. 233 Maggie H. No. 270 Trista G. No. 169 Michele R. No. 220 Jeff K. No. 47 Gail V. No. 90 Bond No. 173 Cheryl W. No. 205 Susan F. No. 4 Lea K.
The Fair Housing Act prohibits housing discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, and disability. It is illegal to deny housing to families with children under 18 years of age unless the housing qualifies as housing for older persons.
There will be no refunds after a classified advertisement is placed and paid. If an ad runs erroneously at the fault of the paper, we will offer a complimentary ad in the next edition of the publication.
TED’S ROOFING
ARE YOU HIRING?
Are you hiring and having trouble finding employees? Try placing a Help Wanted ad on our Classifieds page! Classifieds start at $10 for the first 25 words. Advertise for 3 weeks and get the fourth week free with mention of this ad. Call 610-923-0382 or email AskUs@ HomeNewsPA.com to get started. (TN)
LABORER/TRUCK DRIVER
Septic company looking for laborer or truck driver. Call Henry at 484-764-6351. Located in Nazareth. (7/31)
FULL-TIME/PART-TIME COOK
Point Phillips Rod & Gun Club is seeking a full-time or part-time cook. Training available. Food ServSafe a plus. Email interests and resumes to pointphillips@gmail.com. (7/31)
MISCELLANEOUS
ATTN: GRADUATES/ FACULTY OF NAHS
Attention graduates and faculty of Northampton Area High School, Class of 1965: Our 60th reunion will be held on Saturday, Oct. 4, 2025. If you have not received an invitation and would like to attend, please contact Linda at 610-767-8372. Reservation deadline is Sept. 13. (7/31)
YOUR AD HERE
Want to advertise your business here for as little as $10/ week? Call 610-923-0382 or email AskUs@HomeNewsPa. com to get started. (7/31)
RENT IT FAST!
With Home News classifieds for as little as $10/week. Call 610-923-0382 or place your ad online at www.homenewspa. com. Mention this ad to receive $1 off. (TN)
FOR SALE
NEVER MISS
ANOTHER ISSUE
Weekly delivery to your mailbox. $24.95 for 52 issues of The Home News. Call today 800896-1392 to get started. (TN)
MILLER SUPPLY
ACE HARDWARE
Northampton, PA
Traeger* Weber*Big Green Egg grills
Grill Accessories/Charcoal
M-F: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Sat: 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Sun: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. 610-262-4566. (7/31)
NAZARETH PLATE
GLASS CO., INC.
27 Mauch Chunk St., Nazareth, Pa. Harvey vinyl replacement windows, storm windows & screens repaired, insulated glass, shower doors, plexiglass, mirrors, repairs made at your home. Free estimates. Commercial customers welcome. Call 610-759-3682. Closed Saturdays. (7/31)
New Roofs & Repairs • ReRoofing • Roof Ventilation • Slate Repairs •Seamless Gutter • Siding • Fascia & Soffit • No Streaking Shingle. Free Estimates & Fully Insured. Where Service & Quality Counts! PA#089829. 610-837-7508. (7/31)
GARAGE SALE
Queenship of Mary Church, 1324 Newport Ave., Northampton, will have a garage sale on Saturday, Aug. 2 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. The sale will be in the church social hall. Entry is from the back of the church off Stewart Street. (7/31)
UPCOMING EVENTS
FLEA MARKET
Saturday, Aug. 16 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Salem United Methodist Church, 1067 Blue Mountain Dr., Danielsville. Yard sale items, crafts, garden produce, baked goods and more. Food/ drink will be available for purchase. Seeking vendors, email neffshirley2@gmail.com or call 484-280-1413 for more info. Sponsored by SERVants Community Outreach Committee. (8/14)
SALEM UCC MARKETPLACE
Saturday, Aug. 16 from 7 a.m. to noon; 2218 Community Dr., Bath. Shop in the shaded grove! Featuring a flea market, yard sale, crafts and produce. Breakfast, lunch and desserts available until noon. Interested vendors call 610759-5780.
All proceeds benefit Salem UCC. (8/14)
WANTED
FIND N SEEK SPONSORS
Calling all businesses- The Home News is currently seeking sponsors for our popular Find N Seek contest. Want your logo in the paper and customers walking through your door, for free? Contact us today! Call 610-923-0382 or email cstroh@ homenewspa.com. (7/31)
PHOTOS
The Home News is seeking photos for the August photo of the month contest. The theme is “Objects.” Email your object photos to cstroh@homenewspa.com along with your name, description of photo, date and location taken. Deadline is Monday, Aug. 25. The winner will be featured in the Aug. 28 issue of The Home News. (8/21)
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING:
The Bushkill Township Zoning Hearing Board has scheduled a meeting for Monday August 11, 2025, to hold a public hearing, beginning at 6:30 PM, in the Bushkill Twp VFC Social Hall, 155 Fire House Drive, Nazareth, Pennsylvania to hear the following Appeal: ZHB APPEAL # 2025-12
David Burns is requesting to expand a non-conforming structure by over 50% (Sec. 1302.A.1) and he is requesting a variance from the side yard setback (Sec.407) at 437 Old Grade Road, located in the Rural Conservation Zoning district of Bushkill Township.
BUSHKILL TOWNSHIP
ZONING HEARING BOARD
Todd E. Weidman, Zoning Officer (7/24 & 7/31)
PUBLIC NOTICE
MOORE TOWNSHIP
Moore Township Board of Supervisors will conduct their August monthly Meeting on Tuesday, August 5, 2025 at 5:00 PM at 2491 Community Drive, Bath PA 18014. (7/24 & 7/31)
MOORE TOWNSHIP ZONING HEARING BOARD
PUBLIC NOTICE
HEARING/MEETING
The regular meeting of the Moore Township Zoning Hearing Board will be held on Wednesday, August 13 2025 at 7:00 PM. The meeting will be held at the Moore Twp. Municipal Building, 2491 Community Dr. Bath, PA 18014. Members of the public are welcome to participate. The specific agenda for the meeting is as follows:
25-ZHB-792
The applicant(s), Tim and Audra Manning, applicants of the property located at 2534 Jones Rd. Bath, PA 18014 request the following relief: A variance to construct a detached garage that will not meet the yard requirements (setbacks) to property line. The section(s) cited for the property are as follows: Section(s) 300-20G Yard Requirements (setbacks) Industrial Zoning District, as well as any other section of the Moore Twp. Zoning Ordinance in which relief may be needed. The property, County PIN# J6-5-18C contains 6.67 acres and is zoned I- Industrial.
25-ZHB-793
The applicant(s), Lorri and David Zeravsky, applicant of the property located at 525 Creek Rd. Bath, PA 18014 request the following relief: A variance to create nonconforming lots on the existing property. The section(s) cited for the property are as follows: Section(s) 300-17F Minimum Lot Area/ Minimum Width, 300-17G Minimum Yard Requirements, as well as any other section of the Moore Twp. Zoning Ordinance in which relief may be needed. The property, County PIN# J48-5B-1 contains 2+ acres and is zoned RA- Rural Agricultural.
25-ZHB-794
An appeal of a Cease and Desist Order, The applicant(s), Patrick Missmer and Shea Emanuel, owners of the property located at 3200 Horseshoe Dr. Danielsville, PA 18038 request the following relief: a variance to allow more animals on a residential lot than permitted. The section(s) cited for this application are as follows: 300-22H (H-8, A-D) Keeping of animals and fowl (residential properties), as well as any other section that may be needed upon further review. The property, County PIN# H4-23-1 contains 1.55 Acres and is zoned, RA- Rural Agricultural.
Jason L. Harhart Zoning Officer Moore Township (7/31 & 8/7)
LEHIGH TOWNSHIP ZONING HEARING BOARD PUBLIC NOTICE
The Lehigh Township Zoning Hearing Board will convene on Thursday, August 14, 2025, at
6 p.m. to hear the following appeal. The hearing will be held at the Lehigh Township Municipal Building located at 1069 Municipal Road, Walnutport, PA 18088.
DAVID & KALEENA HESS
The applicant/owner of 1035 Municipal Road, Walnutport, PA, 18088 has filed an application for zoning relief from the minimum habitable floor area requirement to construct a new mobile home on a vacant lot. The applicant is seeking relief from the following, requesting a variance from Section 18035. A – Minimum habitable floor area. The parcel I.D. No. is H226-4A-0516 and is located in the Agriculture/Rural Residential Zoning District.
Meetings are open to the public and all interested parties are welcome to attend and will have an opportunity to be heard.
The Northampton Borough Planning Commission will hold its public meeting on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, starting at 7:00 P.M. in Council Chambers, 1401 Laubach Avenue, Northampton, Pennsylvania, to review the following:
1. A presentation/update by Environmental Planning & Design, and office staff for the proposed River Central MultiMunicipal Zoning Ordinance to the Planning Commission for discussion and recommendation to Borough Council.
All interested parties are invited to attend.
Brian Welsko Borough Manager (7/31 & 8/7)
ORDINANCE 309-2025
AN ORDINANCE OF THE BOROUGH OF TATAMY, NORTHAMPTON
AS DEDICATED BY THE CHRIN TRUST DST, WITHIN THE BOROUGH OF TATAMY, NORTHAMPTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA. A Full copy of the ordinance is available for public review at the Borough Municipal Building, 423 Broad St., Tatamy, PA 18085 (7/31)
PUBLIC NOTICE
THE PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING, REGULARLY scheduled to 12 August, has been rescheduled for 26 August, 7pm at the Borough Municipal Building. (7/31 & 8/21)
Church Directory
** REMINDER ** If your SUMMER SCHEDULE has changed, please contact our office at 610-923-0382 to update the Directory listing at no charge.
The Home News Church Directory is an alphabetical listing of community churches and synagogues. If you would like to make a change to your listing below, please email it to: cstroh@homenewspa.com or call 610-923-0382. The Church Directory is always available on our website at www.HomeNewsPA.com.
ASSUMPTION
BVM PARISH, NORTHAMPTON.
610-262-2559
Sun. – Mass 8/10:30 a.m., Mon. – Mass 8 a.m., Tues. – Mass 8 a.m., Wed. – Mass 8 a.m., Thurs. –Mass 8 a.m., Fri. – Mass 8 a.m., Sat. – Mass 4 p.m. ASSUMPTION OF THE VIRGIN MARY UKRAINIAN ORTHODOX CHURCH, NORTHAMPTON
Sun. – Worship 9 a.m. ST. JOHN’S EV. LUTHERAN CHURCH, NAZARETH 610-759-3090. Sun. – Worship 8/10:45 a.m., Sat. – Worship with HC 5:30 p.m.
ST. JOHN’S U.C.C., HOWERTOWN. 610-262-8666
Sun. – Worship 9 a.m. ST. JOHN’S U.C.C. NAZARETH. 610-759-0893
Sun. – 9:30 a.m. ST. NICHOLAS R.C. BERLINSVILLE. 610-767-3107
Sun. – Mass 8:30/10:30 a.m., M-F -8:30 a.m.,
Sat. – 4:30 p.m.
ST. PAUL’S THIRD LUTHERAN CHURCH, PALMER TWP. 610-258-0875
Sun. – Worship 10 a.m., SS 8:45 a.m. All welcome. ST. PAUL’S UCC, NORTHAMPTON, 610-261-2910. HA Worship 10:30 a.m. (with child care) ST. PAUL’S U.C.C., OF INDIANLAND, CHERRYVILLE 610-767-5751
Sun. – Trad. Worship 10:30 a.m., Contemporary Praise Worship second Sunday 7:30 a.m. ST. PETER’S UCC SEEMSVILLE, NORTHAMPTON. 610-837-7426
Sun.- Worship 8/10:30 a.m., SS 9:15 a.m. VALLEY VIEW BAPTIST, NORTHAMPTON 610-837-5894
Sun. – Worship 10:45 a.m./6 p.m. BS 9:30 a.m., Wed.- BS and Prayer 7 p.m. WALNUTPORT SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST 610-767-8939
Sat. – Sabbath School 9:30 a.m. Worship 11 a.m. ZION’S STONE U.C.C., KREIDERSVILLE 610-262-1133
Sun. – SS 9 a.m., Worship 10:15 a.m. ZION E.L. CHURCH, NORTHAMPTON, 610-262-6636 (N) Sun. – Worship 10 a.m., SS 8:45 a.m.
Raspberry Crisp
Ingredients
Filling
5 cups fresh raspberries
5 tablespoons cornstarch
¾ cup sugar
Topping
½ cup flour
¼ cup brown sugar
¼ cup butter, cut into cubes
Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Spray a 9x9-inch baking pan with non-stick spray. Set aside. Add raspberries to a large bowl followed by sugar and cornstarch. Toss to combine, then add berries to the baking dish and distribute the sugar/cornstarch mixture that's left in the bowl over the fruit.
Make the topping by mixing the flour and brown sugar together in a medium bowl. Cut in the butter using a pastry blender, two knives or your fingers, until the butter is well distributed. Then pinch and squeeze the topping mixture with your fingers to make nice crumbs.
Sprinkle the crumbs over the berries.
Bake for 35-45 minutes or longer, until the middle of the crisp is bubbling.
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or sweetened whipped cream.
If you have a recipe you’d like to share with our readers, email it to cstroh@homenewspa.com or mail to P.O. Box A, Walnutport, PA 18088.
August happenings at the Nazareth library
Submitted by JILL SILVIUS
August may bring the end of summer - but it's the beginning of some exciting happenings at the library.
The MLNV has an important anniversary coming up in 2027. It will be the 100th anniversary of the library building. Staff and members of the Board have scheduled their next planning meeting for Thursday, Aug. 14 at 7 p.m., to solicit ideas from the public about how best to recognize, celebrate and honor both the history and the future of the library. All are invited to attend and share their ideas. Registration is not required to attend this meeting, but is required for the programs listed below; see the library's website calendar at www.nazarethlibrary.org, or call 610-759-4932, or stop in the library to register.
The Teen Advisory Board designed a Pit of Hades Escape Room and invites attendees for this special challenge on Friday, Aug. 1 at 3 p.m.
Adults are invited to attend a "Silly Storytime" for fun jokes and stories on Monday, Aug. 4 at 2 p.m. and an author talk with Ben Blatt on Thursday, Aug. 7 at 6:30 p.m. Author, statistician, NYT writer and hobbyist woodworker Blatt will join via Zoom to discuss “I Don't Care If We Never Get Back,” his book about visiting
Kathleen Morgan will define osteoporosis, identify risk factors and screening guidelines, explore lifestyle and dietary measures, and review treatments and falls prevention.
All adults are invited to the Friday, Aug. 15 gathering of the Cookery and Conversation Club at 1 p.m. Attendees should check out a library cookbook, share their thoughts about it, and bring a garden
30 MLB ballparks in 30 days, and “Nabokov's Favorite Word Is Mauve,” his book analyzing popular fiction by the numbers, as well as his other writing and amazing woodworking creations. Registrants can watch on the library's "big screen" or join from home.
On Tuesday, Aug. 12 at 1:30 p.m., "Strong Bones for a Lifetime" will be offered when Dr.
Borough Police
Continued from page 6
check the welfare of a male.
EMS ambulance assist in the 1600 block of Washington Ave., and the 1300 block of Main St. Officers assist EMS with the transports of females.
Disturbance in the 1600 block of Washington Ave. Report of a disturbance.
JULY 18
Check person/welfare in the 1400 block of Cedar St. Request to check the welfare of a female and two males.
Traffic stop, W. 9th St., the 600 block and the 2000 block of Main St. and Main St. and E. 7th St. Traffic stops were conducted.
Civil matter in the 2400 block of Perch Alley, and the 400 block of E. 11th St. Reports of civil issues.
Warrant service/served in the 1600 block of Main St. Report of a male with a local warrant taken into custody, transported to the station, District Court and Northampton County Prison.
Disturbance in the 1600 block of Canal St. Report of a disturbance.
EMS ambulance assist in the 1600 block of Newport Ave. Officers assist EMS with the transport of a female.
Juvenile problem, Smith Ln., and Laubach Ave. and Smith Ln. Reports of juvenile issues.
Suspicious person in the unit block of Laubach Ave. Report of a suspicious male.
DUI in the 1600 block of Lau-
bach Ave. Report of a suspected DUI.
Suspicious person in the 2200 block of Main St. Report of a suspicious male.
Traffic stop in the 1000 block of Main St. A traffic stop was conducted.
Juvenile problem, Smith Ln., and the 1000 block of Main St. Reports of juvenile issues.
Neighbor complaint in the 1600 block of Railroad St. Report of a neighbor issue.
Suspicious person in the 1600 block of Laubach Ave. Report of two suspicious males.
Noise complaint in the 200 block of W. 30th St. Report of loud music and fireworks.
Noise complaint in the 1600 block of Newport Ave. Report of loud music.
harvest-themed food to share with a small group.
Children can attend a special back-to-school party hosted by the Junior Friends on Tuesday, Aug. 19 at 6 p.m.
SURV Restaurant has selected the MLNV for its August "Curbside Charity.” The SURV
chef will prepare a special menu for a meal for a family of four for $60, and for each meal sold, SURV donates $30 back to the library. Pick-up dates at SURV are Aug. 25, 26 and 27.
See the library for more details.
Lastly, don’t forget to save the date for the annual Toucha-Truck Festival at Bushkill Township Recreation Fields on Saturday, Oct. 4. Tickets will go on sale in early September. See you at the library!
