Blue Mountain Town & Country Gazette January 2

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JANUARY 2, 2025 | Volume 39, No. 7 Distributing 11,000 copies to Lehigh, Carbon, and Northampton Counties since 1985 askus@townandcountrygazette.com | 610-767-9600 Next Issue: January 16 | Deadline: Wednesday, January 8 January 2, 2025 || townandcountrygazette.com

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INSIDE THIS ISSUE Sudoku................................ Pg. 19 Word Search....................... Pg. 20 Coloring Page...................... Pg. 36 Classifieds........................... Pg. 41

New Year: New Directions

By John Hall for Blue Mountain Town & Country Gazette

Happy New Year, everyone! It’s 2025, the weather’s chilly, the holidays are behind us and it’s time to look ahead. In this year’s first issue we are looking ahead to the New Year and new directions. We’re not talking about flipping our lives on their heads, but looking at areas of our lives where we might want to seek out and find a new direction.

We really do tackle that head on in “Taking a New Direction in Life.” This is our anchor article on the topic and it’s a very good read. Not only do 255E South Best Ave. Walnutport, PA 18088

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Paul and Lisa Prass - Publishers Kathy Marsh - Associate Publisher Sara Reitz - Account Executive Donna Bachman - Accounting Manager Tony Pisco - Art Director The Blue Mountain Town & Country Gazette is published the first and third Thursday of the month. The Gazette does not assume responsibility for an ad beyond the cost of the ad itself; we cannot be responsible for typographic errors. We reserve the right to reject any article or advertisement thought to be offensive or not contributing to the needs of the community. Signed letters will be printed at the discretion of the editor. News items and ads should be submitted by 4 p.m. on the deadline date, located on the bottom of the front cover.

Business Hours: Call for an appointment Content, including text, images, ads, and online material may not be reproduced, copied, or published either in whole or in part, without the consent of the publishers.

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we look at areas where new directions might be interesting, including one of the big ones, career, but also how to get it done. Let’s say you just want to pick up a hobby, where do you start? This article gives you a lot of tips on how you might proceed on a number of fronts. One of the most interesting tips overall, involves thinking back to the dreams you might have had for yourself earlier in life. Like I said, it’s an interesting read.

On a less substantial note, maybe one of the new directions you wouldn’t mind seeking is how to declutter your own home. What’s the secret to Continued on page 4

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New Year: New Directions Continued from page 3

getting it all done – especially after all the activities of the holiday season? Again, more tips, and super valuable. Check out “Decluttering Post-Holidays” for all the details.

Now, many humans want to live forever. That may not be entirely realistic, but… living longer and at the same time healthier, is very doable. In “Keys to Longevity” we give you six key things to focus on this year that really can lead you to a

longer, and as just said, healthier life.

When the weather turns cold, as it has done at the start of this particular year, if you’re a DIY type, you might start getting a little anxious if you can’t get outside to do stuff. Don’t worry, we have you covered. Don’t miss “Cold Weather DIY Projects,” because you don’t have to sit around twiddling your thumbs for the next few months. We’ve got a great mix of indoor DIY projects you can tackle to keep busy. And if you do, you won’t go stir-crazy and you’ll get a lot done.

And finally, to close this issue, we take a look at 10 winter driving myths. You know, some of the winter driving tips we get from people just aren’t always accurate. For instance, letting your car idle for a while to warm in the winter – good to do / bad to do? Turns out your car’s engine is fully lubricated and ready to go in under a minute. So if you start it up when you get in, by the time you’ve fastened your seatbelt, adjusted the heat and the radio, your vehicle will be ready to roll. Find out more in “10 Winter Driving Myths: Debunked.”

So that’s our first editorial lineup for the year. Be sure and join us next time when we will look at mental wellness – especially during the upcoming “darker” months, tax considerations for the coming tax season, and more. We will see you then.

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Taking a New Direction in Life SOURCE: Various

To take a new direction in life means you will make a significant change in your life path. You might do this by pursuing new career opportunities, hobbies, personal development goals, or lifestyle choices. You will essentially take a different direction than what you were previously focused on by actively seeking out new experiences and possibilities to put yourself on a different trajectory in life.

Direction in life is a sense of purpose that helps guide you through life's stages and challenges. It can help you find new meaning, maintain mental resilience, and achieve long-term goals.

Key aspects of "new directions in life": Self-reflection / Using self-reflection you take time to assess your current situation, values, and desires to identify areas where you want to make changes. That’s the starting point.

Exploring new interests / The goal here is to identify your passion, or passions in life. Try out new hobbies, activities, or learn new skills to discover those potential passions.

Career change / This of course is a “big one,” but switching to a different job field or role that aligns better with your current goals and aspirations can lead you to far greater happiness in your daily life.

Personal growth / Focusing on self-improvement in areas like health, relationships, or mindfulness practices will help you achieve personal growth that matters.

Stepping out of comfort zone / One of the things that you will almost certainly need to do as you embark on a new direction in life is step out of your comfort zone. This is guaranteed to be part

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of the process if you want to embrace new challenges and new experiences to expand your horizons.

How to find a new direction in life?

This is a very clear and strategic question. How do you find a new direction in life? One of the most direct and interesting ways to begin looking at this is to revive your old dreams and find out if they still excite you. Even if we don’t have many dreams at the moment, at an earlier time in life we all had dreams of what we thought our lives could be.

Dreams are often big ideas and oftentimes our Continued on page 6 “The Beautiful Stone Church at the Top of the Park”

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Taking a New Direction Continued from page 5

younger selves didn’t have everything they needed to reach those dreams, but what about now? The dreams would probably be somewhat different today, but with all the knowledge and experience in life we now have, could one of those earlier dreams help guide us to a new direction at this point in time?

Here are some important ways to prepare for finding new direction in life: Identify your values / Consider what you care

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Decluttering Post-Holidays SOURCE: 1800gotjunk.com (edited)

This January start the year feeling lighter. Think about all the things you want to take with you into the New Year, and also think about what you want to leave behind – which can be anything from old habits to the physical stuff in your home.

If you want to focus on decluttering your home, think about where the clutter tends to pile up and start there. It’s also a good idea to start small – if you try to do too much at once, it can get overwhelming. Use these decluttering tips to get started: 1. Set a specific decluttering date One of the biggest hurdles when it comes to decluttering is actually finding the time to do it.

Treat it as an appointment. Pick a date ahead of time and make sure you stick to it.

2. Start with holiday clutter As you put away all your holiday decorations, take the time to seriously consider if there’s

anything you can let go of. You’re bound to find at least a few items that you really don’t need to hang onto. Set aside anything you want to get rid of as you go and try to condense everything else into the fewest storage containers possible to make it easier to store and find next year.

3. Assess your gift situation Ask yourself if your new gifts are replacing any older items you don’t need anymore. If that’s the case, gather up the old items and turn them out as a donation.

4. Clear out any unwanted gifts This one is a little tricky. Every year, it seems like there’s at least one gift you just don’t quite know what to do with. We often end up holding onto these items because we feel guilty, but that’s no reason to keep that clutter around. You can either give those items to someone you know or donate them to a local charity so someone else has a chance to enjoy them.

5. Clear out your storage space It’s normal for storage spaces to slowly accumulate more clutter throughout the year.

Before you put away all your holiday stuff, take some time to sort through your storage space to organize and clear things out.

Continued on page 10

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Decluttering Post-Holidays Continued from page 8

6. Deep clean as you go If you’re clearing out these areas around your home, why not do a deep clean while you’re at it?

It’s the perfect time to dust the shelves, clean out the dust bunnies, and give everything a thorough wipe down after all those holiday parties.

7. Donate or give to friends Once you’ve finished your post-holiday decluttering, it’s time to actually get the clutter out of your home. Consider inviting friends over

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to dig through your pile – you might be throwing something out they can use. You can also donate your items to a local charity. Just make sure it can use what you’re offering.

8. Clear out the rest of your junk After you’ve donated and given things away, you could still have a few items left behind. Some smaller items could go out with the trash, or to local recycling depot.

Call ahead and make sure they accept the kinds of items you plan to discard.

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Keys to Longevity SOURCE: nytimes.com (edited)

Humans have searched for the secret to immortality for thousands of years. Most experts believe that by practicing a few simple behaviors, many people can live healthier for longer, reaching 80, 90 and even 100 in good physical and mental shape.

Below are seven tips from geriatricians on how to add more good years to your life.

1. Move more. / The number one thing experts recommended is to keep your body active. That’s because study after study has shown that exercise reduces the risk of premature death.

Physical activity keeps the heart and circulatory system healthy and provides protection against numerous chronic diseases that affect the body and mind. It also strengthens muscles, which can reduce older people’s risk of falls.

The best exercise is any activity you enjoy doing and will stick with. You don’t have to do a lot, either – the American Heart Association recommends 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, meaning just walking a little

more than 20 minutes a day is beneficial.

2. Eat more fruits and vegetables. / Experts didn’t recommend one specific diet over another, but they generally advise eating in moderation and aiming for more fruits and vegetables and fewer processed foods.

The Mediterranean diet – which prioritizes fresh produce in addition to whole grains, legumes, nuts, fish and olive oil – is a good model for healthy eating. It’s been shown to lower the risk of heart disease, cancer, diabetes and dementia.

3. Get enough sleep. / Sleep is sometimes overlooked, but it plays a major role in healthy Continued on page 12

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Keys to Longevity Continued from page 11

aging. Research has found that the amount of sleep a person averages each night is correlated with their risk of death from any cause, and that consistently getting good quality sleep can add several years to a person’s life.

Sleep appears to be especially important for brain health: A 2021 study found that people who slept less than five hours a night had double the risk of developing dementia. Don’t smoke, and don’t drink too much either.

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4. Manage your chronic conditions. / Nearly half of American adults have hypertension, 40 percent have high cholesterol and more than one-third have pre-diabetes. All the healthy behaviors mentioned above will help manage these conditions and prevent them from developing into even more serious diseases, but sometimes lifestyle interventions aren’t enough. That’s why experts say it’s critical to follow your doctor’s advice to keep things under control.

5. Prioritize your relationships. / Psychological health often takes a back seat to physical health, but isolation and loneliness are as big a detriment to our health as smoking. Relationships are key to not only living healthier, but also happier.

According to the Harvard Study of Adult Development, strong relationships are the biggest predictor of well-being.

6. Cultivate a positive mind-set. / Even thinking positively can help you live longer. Several studies have found that optimism is associated with a lower risk of heart disease, and people who score highly on tests of optimism live 5 to 15 percent longer than people who are more pessimistic.

If you had to pick one healthy practice for longevity, do some version of physical activity. If you can’t do that, then focus on being positive.

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Cold Weather DIY Projects SOURCE: washingtonpost.com (edited)

When the weather turns cold as it has done, there is plenty you can accomplish indoors. Of course you can binge-watch something on Netflix, but that will only go so far. When you’ve run out of entertainment, why not take advantage of the time indoors to spruce up your home?

Here are just a few cold-weather projects you can tackle in just a day or two. As a bonus, some may even help you cut your utility bills.

Weatherstrip window and door cracks / Depending on the age of your home and how well it’s insulated, heating bills can skyrocket during the winter. The good news is that weatherstripping your doors, windows and other drafty areas will not only help keep you warm, but may also cut your winter heating bills, sometimes by more than 20 percent, according to the Energy Department.

• Choose the right material for the job • Get the project done early in the season Install a smart thermostat / Installing a smart

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thermostat to control HVAC settings from your phone is another way to cut your energy bills at home. The average household saves about $50 annually by swapping out an old thermostat with a smart model.

• A fairly straightforward project to accomplish in an afternoon • If your HVAC is very old consider bringing in an electrician Paint the fireplace / Painting a fireplace can transform the look of a room. The fireplace is a focal point and painting it is a small project that has a big impact.

• Identify your fireplace material and select an appropriate type of paint • Select a paint product that can withstand high temperatures.”

For a smaller – but still impactful – project, paint just the fireplace mantel.

Replace kitchen hardware / It is tough to think of an easier kitchen upgrade than replacing cabinet handles and knobs. You get big visual change for relatively little time and investment.

• Take an existing piece of hardware when

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shopping for replacements to make sure you get the correct size.

Install a new shower head / If your shower head drips, it probably annoys you every day. Imagine how much better life could be if you replaced it.

Swapping it out is a relatively easy DIY task, no plumber needed. It can also reduce your water consumption, depending on the type of shower head you choose.

• Use less water and place less demand on your water heater Create a Gallery Wall / If you need inspiration for laying out your gallery wall, visit Pinterest for tons of inspirational ways to do it.

• To test your “layout,” cut newspaper into the size and shapes of your frames and tape them on the wall to see if the layout works for you • For precision, use a laser level when hanging your photos or art pieces Paint a Small Room / It will take less than a day to instantly make over a small room – such as a half-bathroom – with a fresh coat of paint.

• Prep work is key: Sand uneven surfaces, fill gaps and holes with caulk, and wipe the walls clean before painting • Don’t forget to place drop cloths on the floors

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Jan. 4 .....................MeMbership Day 8aM-12noon Jan. 12 ........................................... block shoot Jan. 25 ........................ Winter sportsMan’s night Feb. 1 .....................MeMbership Day 8aM-12noon Feb. 8 ............................cabin Fever Flea Market Feb. 9 .......................... block shoot 8aM-12noon Mar. 1 ....................MeMbership Day 8aM-12noon Mar. 9 ............................................ block shoot Mar. 14 ........................spring sportsMan’s night For More Information Visit our website or check us out on Facebook January 2, 2025 || townandcountrygazette.com

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Class of ‘74 Slatington Class of 1974 celebrated its 50th class reunion June 8 at Blue Mountain’s Slopeside Pub and Grill. Front row, from left, are: Evelyn Kroboth Mackes, Carol DeFrain, Jan Shuey Achey, Kathryn Lakatosh Hauser, Janice Harwi Boos, Peter Reese, Holly Weiss Ritter, Richard Bowman, Sylvia Smale Kratzer, Dawn Gogel Neustader and Susan Trainer. Row 2, Susan Wanamaker, Bonita Shoemaker Parker, Kim Marlatt Burns, Judy Wertman Eckert, Debra Caton Sweigart, Jan Sauerwine Brumback, Denise Caton Truett, Debra Ringler, Timothy Ringler, Carol Rupert Haydt. Row 3, Larry Loch, Sheila Hughes O’Brien, Karen DeLong Gasker, Terry Hausman, Carl Strohl, Cynthia Harwi Biegly, Tina Wassum Bell, Kathryn Burckhart Ziegenfus, Gail Haas Bankos, Janis Roth Kester, Betty Schuler Oertner, Lori Snyder Chandler, Kathy Kern Kehley, Dawn Bisko Mummey, Kim Peters Horvath, Thomas Steigerwalt. Row 4, David Kunkle, Kenneth Luers, Edward Hoyle, Brian Williams, Jeffery Jones, Carlton Miller, Ricky Blose, Todd Freed, Dennis Green, Joseph Shimko, Karen Williams Roman, Stacey Smith, James Horvath. Contributed Photo.

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PUBLIC NOTICE HANDICAP REGULATIONS FEDERAL REGULATION 504 OF THE REHABILITATION ACT OF 1973 PROHIBITS DISCRIMINATION AGAINST QUALIFIED INDIVIDUALS DUE TO THEIR DISABILITIES. LITTLE LEHIGH MANOR OF ALLENTOWN, PA, Advises the public, employees, and job applicants that it does not discriminate based on disability status in admission or access to or treatment or employment in its programs and activities. Little Lehigh Manor has designated the following as the contact to coordinate efforts to comply with this requirement. Direct all inquiries to: Janet Meyer, CPO Community Manager Little Lehigh Manor 824 Jackson Street, Allentown, PA 18102 (610) 432-1710 TDD #711

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Senior Singles" to be held at St. John's Lutheran Church Submitted by Michelle Raber Gass

We at St. John's Lutheran Church at 40 2nd St. Slatington are beginning a new social ministry called Senior Singles ( AARP defines senior as 50+) to benefit any adults in our community who are widowed, widowers, or single due to divorce or never married. We saw a need for this ministry as in our church alone we have 29 active widows

and widowers. Through this group, we hope to benefit the senior singles population by hosting fellowship opportunities and social events, connecting single seniors with others who have shared interests, creating a list of references for home repair, snow removal, and lawn care, sharing information on community programs that benefit this group, and providing spiritual nurture through Bible studies and adult education events.

Save the date for Thursday, Jan. 30, 2025 from 1:00-3:00 pm with the snow date scheduled for Thursday Feb. 6, 2025 from 1:00-3:00pm There will be light refreshments served with the program in the church's fellowship hall. There is no charge and you do not have to be a member of a church to attend. Our first meeting will have 3 speakers, one being Pastor Halle Kluever, Pastor of St. John's Lutheran Church. You can register by calling our church office at 610-767-6361 and speaking with Sharon Stehly, our church secretary.

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5 Obert 2 C: 484-223-8936 9 Kristen | O: 610-826-2232 | KristenObert@gmail.com 3295 Forest Inn Rd, Suite 8, Palmerton, PA 18071 | IronValleyRealEstateNortheast.com 6 2 4 2 5 6 4 9 8 5

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News@TownAndCountryGazette.com || January 2, 2025

LAUGH OUT LOUD

Soup & Sandwich Sale St. John's Lutheran Church 40 Second Street, Slatington Orders due Sunday, January 19; Pick-up is Saturday, January 25, between 9:00 and 11:00 am Sandwich choices ($6.50 each) are: Pulled Pork Barbeque on a roll or Tuscan Grilled Chicken Wrap.

Soup choices quart-size are: Chili Con Carne ($7.50), Creamy Reuben Soup ($7.50), and Seafood Chowder (New England Style White- $8.50).

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

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21

10 Winter Driving Myths: Debunked SOURCE: erieinsurance.com (edited)

The winter season brings with it many familiar (and unwanted) driving traditions: Dark commutes thanks to shorter days with less sunlight, the morning routine of clearing snow and ice from your windshield, and driving through the occasional winter whiteout.

To help navigate the challenges, there’s no shortage of winter driving tips. But unfortunately,

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not everything you’ll hear is really advice worth following. To help separate fact from fiction, here’s the truth behind 10 of the biggest winter driving myths.

You should warm up your car before driving in cold weather. / Your car’s engine is fully lubricated after less than a minute of idling. And the fastest way to warm up your vehicle is by getting behind the wheel and driving.

Letting air out of your tires will improve traction. / Your car’s tires were designed to be inflated to a specific pressure. Keeping them underinflated won't give your wheels better traction. In fact, it may actually make it harder to stop.

Four-wheel drive makes it safe to drive in the snow. / Even if your car is equipped with four-wheel drive, anti-lock brakes, traction control, winter tires or other safety features, never let good judgment and smart driving be swept aside by a false sense of security provided by vehicle technology.

Pouring hot water on your windshield makes ice melt fast. / Pouring hot water on ice-cold glass is usually just a recipe for broken glass.

Continued on page 24

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News@TownAndCountryGazette.com || January 2, 2025

Christmas may be over but The Blue Mountain Town & Country Gazette is still collecting for pets and seniors in need.

Our address is 255E South Best Ave., Walnutport and items can be dropped off between 9am and 4pm Monday thru Friday.

Examples of Pet items to bring:

Laundry pods or detergent • Bleach • Paper towels Iams cat food hairball • All brown dry dog food • Printer paper • Note pads Purina one brown puppy food • Gift cards (Chewy, Walmart, Amazon)

Examples of Senior items to bring: Word Search Crossword Puzzles Adult Coloring Books Thicker Colored Pencils Toiletries • Denture Cream Denture Tablets Body Wash • Lotion

January 2, 2025 || townandcountrygazette.com

23

10 Winter Driving Myths: Debunked Continued from page 22

You don’t really need winter tires. / You’ll always get better traction in cold, ice and snow from a set of dedicated winter tires because of their more aggressive tread pattern and different rubber compounds that remain more pliable in freezing temperatures.

There’s nothing you can do about black ice. / If you find yourself on black ice, maintain your speed and don’t suddenly apply the brakes or gas pedal. Then, turn your steering wheel into the skid until you regain control of the vehicle. Once that happens, steer your car in the direction you want to go. Gentle control inputs from both the steering

wheel and pedals can help prevent a spin – even on black ice.

Pump your brakes when stopping on ice. / If your vehicle has an antilock braking system (ABS) – and nearly every modern car does – you don’t need to pump the brakes when driving on slippery roads. Just firmly press your foot on the brake and maintain steady pressure.

Emergency kits aren’t necessary for urban drivers. / If you’re trapped in a winter storm, it could take hours for a tow truck to reach you, while extreme weather could make it unsafe to walk to a nearby store or residence. For those reasons, it’s important to carry an emergency kit no matter where you live or drive.

Winter car washes are a waste of money. / Regular car washes in winter can help remove road salt and other ice-melting chemicals that cause rust and corrosion on your vehicle. Regular car washes in winter are still an important part of good vehicle maintenance.

You only need to use headlights at night. / If visibility is poor, even during the daytime, remember to use your lights. It helps other drivers see you when approaching or following. And, of course, you should always turn on your lights when the windshield wipers are operating.

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News@TownAndCountryGazette.com || January 2, 2025

TOUCH OF DUTCH Submitted by Larry Gradwohl

Der Yenner Nau hen mer die neie Kalenner Un sin aa schun widder im Yenner; Den hasse die Alde, Yuscht wege dem Kalde, Sie meene, der Summer waer schenner.

Doch guck mol, die Schneeflocke falle!

Geglingel vun Belle muss schalle!

Es glitzert so weiss Mit Schnee un mit Eis, Un heer emol, Peitsche, die gnalle!

Un Belle, die schalle; So Yunge, die duhne net friere.

-John Birmelin January Now we have the new calendar And are already in January again; Continued on page 26

Ya, Schliddebaah muss emol sei, Un alles im Schlidde zu nei!

Die Buwe un Maed, Die sin ya net bleed, Die Alde sin do net debei.

Sie solle sich numme blessiere, So lang, as sie sich net verliere.

Die Flocke, die falle,

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January 2, 2025 || townandcountrygazette.com

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25

Touch of Dutch Continued from page 25

This [month] the old people hate, Just because of the cold [weather], They think the summer is nicer.

Yet look once, the snowflakes fall!

Jingling of bells must resound!

Everything glistens so white With snow and ice, And listen once to the cracking of the whips!

Yes, it must be sledding time once again, And everything goes into the sled!

The boys and the girls, They are certainly not timid, [But] the older people are not here with them.

They should just have a good time, So long as they do not get lost.

The flakes, they fall, And bells, they ring; Such young people, they do not freeze.

[John Birmelin (1873 – 1950) Birmelin was born

in Longswamp Township, Berks County. Coming from a musical family, he began playing the organ at a country church at the age of eleven. He later was the organist and choir director at the Church of the Sacred Heart in Allentown, a position he held well into the last year of his life. He was also considered by many to be the ‘poet laureate’ of the Pennsylvania Dutch, and many of his poems found their way into Preston Barba’s “Eck” column in the “Morning Call” and also into two annual volumes of the Pennsylvania German Folklore Society.]

[Sorry folks, this is a repeat of an earlier article; too much going on in my family right now in addition to the holidays, to finish the article that I planned for this issue.]

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A Happy New Year to everyone!

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News@TownAndCountryGazette.com || January 2, 2025

GIRL OF THE MONTH

Slatington Woman’s Club - December 2024

Grace Bauer

The Woman’s Club of Slatington is pleased to announce that Northern Lehigh High School senior Grace Bauer of Walnutport has been chosen as their Girl of the Month for December. Grace is the daughter of Jennifer and Ronald Bauer. She has a younger sister named Rachel. Her activities include President of Leo Lions Club, Student Council serving as chairperson of the Outreach Commitee, National Honor Society, varsity softball, and she is a member of her church youth group. She received the honor of being accepted into the DeSales Honors Program where high school students attend college courses at the University.

Grace also received the Presidential Scholarship from DeSales University. In her free time, Grace enjoys reading and working out. She also likes to spend time with her family relaxing at the beach on family vacation. Her future plans include studying Early Childhood Education at DeSales University to become an elementary school teacher one day. Congratulations, Grace!

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Lehigh Township Lions Deliver Christmas Cheer for 50th Year submitted by Wayne Benninger

On Saturday, December 21, 2024 members of the Lehigh Township Lions Club delivered 254 Christmas fruit baskets to Lehigh Township residents age 60 and above, who live alone.

An annual tradition since 1974, the Lehigh Township Lions purchase and prepare the fruit for delivery to the many appreciative recipients.

For information on how to become a member of the Lehigh Township Lions Club contact any Lehigh Township Lions Club member.

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RSVP Brad Ruta at 610-428-0638 28

News@TownAndCountryGazette.com || January 2, 2025

National Wreaths Across America celebrated in Lehigh and Moore Township

By Mary Ann Endy

At Saint Nicholas Catholic Church Cemetery in Berlinsville, left Michelle Minnich, Legionnaire Vietnam Veteran Jerry Bundra, and Karen Bandzi placed the wreath at this gravesite.

For the 2nd consecutive year, the American Legion Post #899 of Walnutport participated in the National Wreaths Across America that was held on Saturday, Dec. 14 by placing fresh-cut balsam wreaths on veterans’ gravesites in Lehigh and Moore Townships. Wreaths Across America’s mission is to REMEMBER the fallen, HONOR those who serve and TEACH the next generation the value of freedom.

Jeff Weidner, American Legion Commander, said this year they were able to place 684 wreaths in the two townships. Wreaths were in boxes and transported to the cemeteries by trailers and trucks.

Legionnaires, and volunteers placed the wreaths on veterans’ gravesites at St. Paul’s U.C.C. Indianland Cemetery of Walnutport, St. Nicholas Catholic Church Cemetery of Berlinsville, Christ Church Little Moore Cemetery of Danielsville,

and Emmanuel’s Union Church Cemetery of Moore Township. Weidner and Fred Seiler Post Chaplain officiated the ceremony at the cemeteries.

The Legion like to thank all those that sponsored wreaths and volunteers to remember our fallen heroes.

They say children are what you teach them.

When Morrill Worcester of Maine was 12 years old his parents took him to visit Arlington National Cemetery. The trip made a lasting impression on him, and he started Wreaths Across America in 1992. He was a Maine businessman and started a tradition when the Worcester family had too many wreaths left over at the end of the holiday season by donating the wreaths to Arlington National Cemetery to honor veterans. Over the years the tradition has grown tremendously by getting the whole USA involved in it to remember our veterans during the holiday season.

Photos by various Legionnaires and volunteers

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Outdoor Power and Turf Equipment Specialists January 2, 2025 || townandcountrygazette.com

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National Wreaths Across America celebrated in Lehigh and Moore Township

American Legionnaires, family, friends, and volunteers gathered at American Legion Post 899 in Walnutport to pose for a group photo before leaving for the four cemeteries where they along with other volunteers participated in Wreaths Across America.

American Legion Post 899 of Walnutport participated in Wreaths Across America on December 14 laying wreaths at Saint Nicholas Catholic Church Cemetery in Berlinsville which was one of four cemeteries where they honored our fallen heroes.

A puppy in training for an eye-seeing dog accompanied its trainer to Wreaths Across America at Saint Nicholas Catholic Church Cemetery in Berlinsville.

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News@TownAndCountryGazette.com || January 2, 2025

American Legion Post Commander Jeff Weidner and Dianna Evert placed wreaths on veterans’ gravesites at Saint Nicholas Catholic Church Cemetery in Berlinsville.

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Wreaths were also placed at each of the cemetery mausoleums for fallen veterans.

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January 2, 2025 || townandcountrygazette.com

31

Northampton Regional EMS Mailers sent out, some to Walnutport Borough in error Submitted by Eric Wescoe

Residents should be aware that the 2025 ambulance subscription for Northampton Regional EMS has been mailed out. The subscription program offers residents and businesses the opportunity to contribute to the organization. In doing so, those funds help NREMS maintain readiness in order to respond to emergencies 24 hours a day.

Pig Stomach Dinner (Eat-in or Take-out)

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

Saturday, January 11, 2025 from 3:30 to 6:00 P.M. Cost $13.00 per meal.

Menu: Pig Stomach, Pickled Cabbage, Applesauce, Dinner Rolls & Butter, and Homemade Desserts.

For tickets call the church office at 610-767-6361 or Harrison at 610-216-4284.

32

NREMS is not funded directly by any taxes from any municipalities it serves. NREMS is a non-profit organization, and is primarily funded by subscriptions, insurance payments and donations.

Those who subscribe will have their co-pays waived 100% in the event that an ambulance is needed and will receive a 50% discount on any out-of-pocket expenses, such as deductibles. If you are a subscriber and have no insurance, as a patient you would receive a discount on the fee.

If you are not a subscriber, in the event that an ambulance is needed, as a patient you would be responsible for any balance left after insurance.

It is important to check with your health insurance provider to see what coverage you have.

Residents should also be aware that some of the NREMS mailers were inadvertently sent to addresses within the Walnutport Borough. NREMS provides services to Lehigh Township (sharing a Walnutport zip code), and Northern Valley provides services specifically to the Walnutport Borough. If NREMS receives any subscription from a Walnutport Borough household, they will be returned to them along with a letter explaining the mix-up.

News@TownAndCountryGazette.com || January 2, 2025

Bethlehem Morning Star Rotary Awards Community Grant to Boys & Girls Club of Bethlehem Teen Initiative submitted by Janet Kolepp

Bethlehem Morning Star Rotary is thrilled to announce the recipient of its 2024 Community Grant: The Teen Experience Improvement Project by the Boys & Girls Club of Bethlehem. This initiative will address critical gaps in resources for local teens, focusing on technology access, life skills development, and food security.

The Boys & Girls Club’s application highlighted pressing needs in the community, as identified through feedback from teens, staff, families, and local schools. With 79% of club members qualifying for free or reduced-price lunches, food insecurity remains a top concern. The project will directly address these challenges by providing: Technology Access: Funding for iPads, Apple Pencils, and a desktop computer to support digital learning and creative exploration.

Life & Career Skills: Expanding proven programs like Career Launch and Money Matters to empower teens with essential knowledge for their futures.

Food Security: Ensuring regular meals and snacks for Club members to meet basic needs.

The Teen Experience Improvement Project builds on the success of existing initiatives while filling critical gaps in resources, ensuring teens have the tools and support they need to thrive.

“This project reflects our club’s commitment to improving education, economic development, and community well-being,” said Rodney Conn, President of Bethlehem Morning Star Rotary. “The Boys & Girls Club’s comprehensive proposal

demonstrated a clear understanding of the challenges faced by local teens and a thoughtful plan to address them.”

Bethlehem Morning Star Rotary awards this annual grant to a local organization that aligns Continued on page 34

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Bethlehem Morning Star Rotary Continued from page 33

with Rotary International’s focus areas. This year’s emphasis on education and economic/community development guided the selection of the Teen Experience Improvement Project.

Bethlehem Morning Star Rotary congratulates the Boys & Girls Club of Bethlehem and thanks all applicants for their dedication to serving the community.

About: Bethlehem Morning Star Rotary The Bethlehem Morning Star Rotary is part of Rotary International, a global organization of community leaders dedicated to fostering goodwill, promoting peace, and addressing critical issues through service.

About: Boys & Girls Club of Bethlehem The Boys & Girls Club of Bethlehem has provided local youth with a safe place to learn, play, and grow since 1930. Their mission is to enable all young people, especially those in most need, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, and responsible citizens.

New pet for Christmas?

Pro tips for welcoming new furry family members

by Jay King

To help our readers who may have received a new pet for Christmas or existing pet owners who just want some useful tips, the Greenville Journal compiled a list of tips from local experts, including veterinarians and breeders, to help you be a successful pet parent.

Prevention is better than treatment With a new pet, it’s important to remember the old truism – “an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure.”

Find a good veterinarian and follow expert medical advice.

Keep up with vaccinations and wellness checkups.

Take preventive steps like putting your pet on the appropriate flea and tick treatment. Heartworm prevention is also a must, and these medications are often combined with flea and tick preventatives.

Train, train, train Taking the time to train your new puppy can

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Continued on page 37

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News@TownAndCountryGazette.com || January 2, 2025

Rescue a Friend

Rescue a Friend

America

GermanMeet Shepherd Cami Dog Bath Adult Female Large You can fill out an adoption application About online on our official website./info/ House-Trained: adoption Yes Health: Vaccinations up to date.

Good in a home with children.

Cami is the sweetest!! She loves people Adoption Fee: $400.00 and will get soMeet excited to be picked up!

America She is Meet so much cuter in person . Tofor apply AMERICA! She is ready for Cami, please fill outfamily! an application her forever

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Cami

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Good in a home with other dogs, children.

Petfinder recommends that you should always take reasonable security steps before making online payments.

This beautiful german shepherd loves kids and just want to lay by your feet and relax!

Red Rock Rescue Inc She is described as affectionate, social and calm. She has an average temperament and Walnutport, PA is low energy. America's foster mom reports redrockpetservices@gmail.com that "America is very sweet and loving. She is a very calm girl who would love to lay by (833) 777-3649 your feet and sleep with you. This is not a guard dog because she loves everyone, she will play with kids but not so much with adults." Like with every dog we recommend following a two week shutdown to help ensure success in your adoption.

Support your local shelter!

America has been vet checked, is UTD on shots, dewormed with Drontal, on Heartgard and Flea/Tick Prevention.

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610-824-2626 January 2, 2025 || townandcountrygazette.com

NOVEMBER 5, 2020 || townandcountrygazette.com

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Coloring Page

36

News@TownAndCountryGazette.com || January 2, 2025

New pet for Christmas?

Continued from page 34

pay huge dividends in preventing problem behaviors from developing.

Check with your vet for recommended trainers in your area. Basic obedience training will benefit you and your pet.

Remember that much of your dog’s behavior is influenced by you, the owner. There are a number of good online resources that will help you learn behaviors to cultivate and ones to avoid.

Make a pet-friendly home Identifying areas and objects in your home that

might harm your pet or tempt them into mischief and removing them or securing them will help keep you and your pet happy and healthy.

Try to keep power cords and other items that might be tempting to chew tucked away and out of sight as much as possible.

Make sure your pet has a safe space like a crate or carrier where they can retreat and feel secure.

Make sure children understand that when your pet is in that space they should be left alone.

Learn your pet’s specific needs Remember that not all pets are the same and each has its own personality. For instance, while Continued on page 38

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New pet for Christmas?

Continued from page 37

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rabbits and ferrets might look cuddly, they generally prefer not to be handled or held.

Be mindful that different dog breeds have different tendencies. Working dogs like varieties of shepherd or retriever need a lot of exercise to thrive.

Understand that some breeds are instinctively protective of their people and might be aggressive toward strangers. Keep that in mind when inviting guests over.

Finally, always take the time to observe your pet and learn what is normal behavior for them. The time spent doing this will help you know when something might be wrong and your pet might need expert help or medical treatment.

Recommended online resources for pet owners: Ultimatepuppy.com for a wealth of training tips on how to start your puppy off right Catfriendly.com has a lot of information on making your home a place where cats can thrive Indoorpet.osu.edu contains information on how to set up a home friendly for both cats and dogs

Calling all newlyweds and brides-to-be!

Send us your love story for a chance to be featured in the Gazette’s upcoming annual bridal issue!

Please send a paragraph along with a photo to kmarsh@townandcountrygazette.com.

One lucky couple will grace the cover!

The deadline to be considered is Jan. 29 38

News@TownAndCountryGazette.com || January 2, 2025

Don’t miss our New You, Taxes and Mental Wellness issue!

January 16 issue Deadline - Jan. 8

Call us at 610-767-9600 FREE

BLU E

MOU NTA IN

FREE FREE

GA ZE TT E

ER 19, 2024 | Volume

39, No. 6

DECEMB since 1985 Northampton Counties to Lehigh, Carbon, and 00 Distributing 11,000 copies ygazette.com | 610-767-96 askus@townandcountr December 26 | Deadline: Thursday, Next Issue: January 2

4 | Volume 39, No.

2024 1985 NOVEMBER 21, pton Counties since Carbon, and Northam copies to Lehigh, | 610-767-9600 Distributing 11,000 ountrygazette.com er 27 askus@townandc Wednesday, Novemb er 5 | Deadline: Next Issue: Decemb

DECEMBER 5, 2024

Distributing 11,000 copies

| Volume 39, No. 5

to Lehigh, Carbon, and Northampton Counties askus@townandcountr since 1985 ygazette.com | 610-767-96 00 Next Issue: December 19 | Deadline: Wednesday , December 11

January 2, 2025 || townandcountrygazette.com

39

HOME IMPROVEMENT

Deck building & repair, Flooring & Trim work.

Power wash, Painting, Ceiling Fans, Lighting, Some plumbing. If it’s not listed, just ask.

Text or call GARY | 484-464-8221

THE HANDY GUY Over 40 years experience

Specializing in spray foam insulation solutions.

We’re experts in commercial building insulation, residential insulation, and problem crawl space remediation.

Commercial and Residential Servicing Pennsylvania and New Jersey

570-629-5090 www.sprayfoaminsulate.com

484-330-9641 Check off your “Honey-do” list with one call to The Handy Guy Experienced home repair professional, no job too small Licensed & Insured • PA# 173513

Neff’s Masonry

brian neff 610-392-7400

BRICK • BLOCK • STONE • CHIMNEYS Fully Insured FREE ESTIMATES

CONCRETE

CONSTRUCTION

484-725-3296 • Anthony Kutzler Check us out on Facebook: 3 Daughters Construction LLC Fully Insured and Licensed

Interior & Exterior Improvements

Mel Fritz Construction •Additions •Kitchens •Baths •Siding •Windows •Doors PA#025123

610-767-7085 Danielsville, PA 40

Fully licensed & Insured HIC:PA182859

Yes, we work on mobile homes News@TownAndCountryGazette.com || January 2, 2024

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.

For Sale

Real Estate for Sale

Sears Rowing Machine Glide Seat, Adjustable tension, $25 OBO 610-852-3213 (1/2)

10 acres in Mansfield, Pa., cabin on property, partially finished inside.

Well, septic tank and electric. Asking $125,000 OBO, call 610-782-1051 (1/2)

Double door stainless steel, commercial refrigerator. Asking $400 OBO, call after 10 a.m.

610-767-5864 (1/2)

Real Estate for Rent Room For Rent: Walnutport, Furnished, WIFI and Cable, Utilities inc. Use of deck and grill, full size refrigerator, convenient parking.

Clean and quiet. Laundry on premises. No pets. One person only, call 610-767-5864 after 10 a.m.

Appt. only (1/2) 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. (12/17) Slatington/Walnutport area: 1 bd apt., appliances, W/S/G included.

Very responsive landlord, clean and safe, no pets. Background check, conformation of income, $800$1000. Call 732-309-9671 (12/17)

Services Available Don Hartwig Sharpening Service: Saw Chain, Mower Blades, Scissors, Knives, Clipper Blades, Carbide Tip Saws, and much more.

4728 Mountain Rd. Slatington.

610-248-7988. (12/17) Tim’s Sharpening Service: Let me take care of your sharpening needs. Circular saws, carbide circular saw blades, planer blades, scissors, electric hedge fence trimmers, lawn mower blades, axes, chisels, chain saws, etc. Call 610-767-5171 or 610-751-6182 (4/17)

BIRTHDAY COUPON Mail to the Blue Mountain Town & Country Gazette, P.O. Box A, Walnutport, PA 18088 Please Print Legibly!

Name____________________________ Hometown _________________ Age on Birthday______________ Date of Birth____________________ One person per issue will be randomly chosen to win a FREE Birthday Cake from Scoopendorf’s Ice Cream Company, Walnutport.

HOME IN BERLINSVILLE For Rent: 2 bedrooms, 1.5 bathrooms.

Appliances included. $1,300 a month plus utilities. Contact Deb at 610-657-4703. (1/16)

December 19, 2024 || townandcountrygazette.com

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

41

ADVERTISER INDEX 3 Daughters Construction....................... 40 AJ+A Custom............................................ 33 All Air Solutions....................................... 25 All American Tree Service....................... 28 American Property Solutions................. 17 Amey’s Clean Rite.................................... 28 ANS Coins................................................. 33 Assumption BVM..................................... 25 AWS Hauling............................................... 8 Bachman Fuel.......................................... 10 Balloons by Robin.................................... 38 Barry Hausman Custom Kitchens.......................... 37 Beers Siding & Seamless Gutters......... 44 BHHS Benjamin Real Estate................... 37 BHHS Brad Ruta....................................... 28 Blue Mountain Evergreen....................... 34 Blue Mountain Fish & Game................... 15 Blue Mountain Resort................................ 6 Boom Mowing........................................... 29 Cherryville Auto Center........................... 16 Christman’s Septic Service..................... 16 Country Clippers....................................... 35 Dave’s Vacuum......................................... 24 Emerald Playground................................ 15 Empire Plumbing..................................... 37 Family Practice......................................... 30 Easy Freeman Jewelers................................... 26 George G. Bensing 3Funeral 7 Home, 4 2LLC..9 8 37 5 ..................

Grapevine Antiques................................. 10 Handy1Guy..8 ...............................................

5 6 7 3 40 4 Harding Funeral Home............................ 32 Iron Valley 9 Real 6 Estate.

2 .1...........................

4 5 19 3 Ironton Auto Body...................................... 2 JIC Property Management...................... 12 4 Exteriors.....................................

9 6 5 1 7 21 8 Jimbo’s Joe’s Battery & Tire.................................. 34 1 ..........................................

8 9 3 6 197 Kermit2Kistler.

Koehler Bros............................................. 25 Kyle’s7 Kars.5 ...............................................

3 8 2 4 271 Larry’s Antiques......................................... 7 Lazyday 5 Home 3 Repair.............................

1 7 6 2 40 9 Lehigh Valley Scoopers........................... 35 Lehigh Valley Spinal................................ 13 6 4Manor.................................

9 3 8 1 16 2 Little Lehigh Liza’s House............................................. 11 7 4 5 9 38 6 Mack’s8Tree2 Service.................................

Mel Fritz Construction............................. 40 Miller Supply............................................... 4 MintHard Home Improvement........................ 12 Mobile Home Parts Center...................... 40 Mountainside Construction..................... 43 7 6 5 3 1 24 8 Myster2Tree...............................................

Neff’s Masonry.......................................... 40 1 Pharmacy..............................

3 8 6 4 9 22 5 Palmerton Perfect Balance........................................ 18 Petersville 9 Rod 4 &5Gun Club.

8 ......................

2 7 16 Plaza Hardware........................................ 14 Rausch 7Cleanouts 5 1& Junk 4 Removal.

9 6...... 10 3 Richard B. Ryon ....................................... 31 Roosevelt Demo Club.............................. 18 4 8 Notary...............................

2 7 5 3 34 9 Schnecksville Shelak Plumbing & Heating................... 40 9 3 2 1 8 16 4 Silfies6 Fuel................................................

Spray Foam Technologies....................... 40 St. John’s 5 Episcopal...................................

1 4 9 6 2 75 St. John’s Lutheran-Slatington........ 21, 32 Storage 3 Solutions 6 7by Snyder..................

1 8 5 43 2 Sule’s Collision Center............................. 10 Ted’s Roofing............................................... 9 8 2 Market.............................

9 3 7 4 68 Tim Smith-Flea TKO Fuel.................................................... 12 W. Neff Auto Sales.................................... 22

Werner Eyes of the Valley....................... 14 Whitehall Turf........................................... 29 Woodring Improvement.......................... 11 Wuchter Property Management............. 30

Walnutport Door Co.................................... 5 Wasko Iron Works...................................... 4 WCHI Bingo................................................. 3 Wenz Tax & Financial............................... 24

This issue’s Sudoko answers Medium 6 2 7 3 4 9 8 5 1

1 9 8 2 5 6 4 7 3

9 6 2 3 7 8 5 4 1

1 8 5 4 2 9 3 7 6

Expert

4 7 3 2 6 5 8 9 1

9 2 6 8 1 7 3 4 5

4 8 3 7 6 5 2 9 1

9 7 6 1 3 2 4 8 5

3 7 4 5 6 1 8 9 2

2 1 8 7 4 5 6 3 9

7 5 3 1 9 6 4 2 8

4 9 6 8 3 2 7 1 5

5 3 1 9 8 4 2 6 7

6 4 9 2 5 7 1 8 3

8 2 7 6 1 3 9 5 4

1 FREE 5 6 7 2 3 Ice8Cream Cake 5 1 2 3 6 9 4 2 9 8 4 5 7 1 4 8 3 9 2 5 6 9 7 5 2 4 1 8 8 4 1 6 9 3 7 This week’s winner should call the 3 6 7 5 1 8 9 TCG office at 610-767-9600 to claim 7 2 4 1 3 6 5 your prize! Cake courtesy of 6 3 9Scoopendorf’s 8 7 4 2 Ice Cream Co..

X

WINNER

Mike Shannon of New Tripoli

Master

42

9 7 8 1 3 4 2 6 5

News@TownAndCountryGazette.com || January 2, 2025

12/13/2024

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For more details visit CentralBoiler.com. Consult a tax professional with any questions.

Outdoor Wood Furnace

CentralBoiler.com 23-0301

©2023 Central Boiler – Ad Number 23-0301

January 2, 2025 || townandcountrygazette.com

43

BEERS SIDING &

SEAMLESS GUTTER

610-760-0915

FREE ESTIMATES FULLY INSURED

Siding Roofing

WE OFFER:

•Numerous styles of vinyl siding, including insulated •Vinyl Shutters •Shakes & Scallops •Roofing •Full line of replacement windows and steel doors

WE ALSO OWN

•Our own Seamless Gutter Machine and can run any length gutter your home needs.

No more seams to leak!

Gutter

Just think what your home could look like.

Find out Call Today!

44

News@TownAndCountryGazette.com || January 2, 2025