festivities turned to the dedication of the newly installed outfield fencing to the memory of the late Ike Garr.

A son of Les Garr and Lori Garr, Ike was a member of the Richmond Lions team and his family has a long history of playing ball games at the Richmond facility. Steve Hughes, a member of the Richmond Lions Club, recounted a short history of the ball field that was created some 60 years ago from land donated by residents of the Village of Richmond along SR 611. Originally the home of the mens fast pitch softball team from the Richmond Methodist Church, it wasnt long before a Little League team for area boys was founded, followed by a girls softball team that

included many of Ikes great aunts. The ball field soon came under the management of the Richmond Lions Club that included Ikes great grandfather Floyd Mensch as a member, and who was present for the dedication. Mr. Mensch, along with a great uncle Ron Sartini were coaches on many of the early teams and a Babe Ruth team has called Richmond their home field for

probably 50 years. Harry Dickey is the current head coach and also present for the occasion was John OBrien, who coached the team for 38 years. A number of former teammates who played with Ike as well as his brother Dalton were also present. Money for the new fence was raised by family and friends and included Debby Magda, owner of the Richmond Hotel.

Father & Son Discount Mattress has opened at the corner of Rt. 512 and E. Main St. in Pen Argyl at the blinking light. The slogan Where Sweet Dreams Begin is truly appropriate for the business. Owner Gary Taborelli said, Our name reflects our business in that my father and my sons are helping me to provide great products and services for our customers. Whether its deliveries or selling, its a family affair. They are public wholesalers of mattresses and boxsprings. They offer Queen split boxsprings, heavy duty steel bedframes and low

By Maria Cascario

profile boxsprings. Their prices for Mattress sets begin at $99. The beds are made by Serta of Albany, New York. They dont sell used beds or factory returns. We opened our business in Phillipsburg New Jersey in December, 2011. Were doing very well there so when our customers asked if we could expand into the Slate Belt, we jumped at the chance and felt that we found the perfect location here, Gary said. We sell Serta mattresses and Corsicana mattresses at the lowest prices in the Lehigh Valley. Father & Sons has a wide selection of mattresses including

Factory Select four inch Foam; Bradley Firm, Robertson Plush Pillowtop, Serta Coral Dune, Hamilton Pillowtop and more. They deliver four days a week. Father & Son Discount Mattress accepts all major credit cards and they also offer their customers the convenience of layaway. Check out their website at fatherand sonmattress.com. They can be reached at 610-881-4238. Business hours are Monday through Friday, 10am to 7pm; Saturday 10am to 6pm and Sunday 11am to 5pm. Appointments are available. Their store in Phillipsburg can be reached by calling 908-777-3303.

We would like to wish Tonya King a very Happy Birthday on June 20th. Have a fantastic day, Mouth! Quin and Tammy Gearhart will be celebrating their aniversary on June 20th. Have a wonderful

anniversary, Quin and Tammy! We would like to wish Peggy and James Impeciati a very Happy Anniversary on June 20th. Andy Hampe will be celebrating a birthday on June 22nd Have a

wonderful day, Andy! We would like to wish Joe Capone a very Happy Birthday on June 25th. Have a great day, Joe! Ricardo Martinez will be celebrating a birthday on June 26th. Have a fantastic day, Ricardo! Michael A. Romano will be celebrating his 90th birthday on June 23rd. Have a wonderful birthday, Michael! Alison Rudolph was named to the deans list at Kutztown College. She is a 2011 graduate of Trinity Catholic High School in Camp Hill. Alison is the daughter of Bill and Beth (McInerney) Rudolph of Lewisburg, and the gradndaughter of Gene and Esther (Falcone) McInerney and Trudy Rudolph. Desiree DiNicola, Roseto Mayor, will be visiting Slate Belt Nursing and Rehabilitation Center for Heritage Day with

Angela Herrlinger, long-time resident and author of local book, Family, Faith and Community. They will be there on June 25th, 2pm on the main floor of the center, 701 Slate Belt Blvd., Bangor. Happy 25th Anniversary to Harold and Pauline Klump. They will be celebrating on June 20th. Have a wonderful anniversary. The Pen Argyl High School Athletic Committee recommended Alvin Blount to be the next Head Boys' Basketball Coach. The committee met recently and unanimously recommended Alvin for approval on Tuesday, June 19th at the school board meeting. We love hearing from you! Send your birthdays, anniversaries, and other tidbits of information to us at: The PRESS 1 Broadway, Bangor, PA 18013

Here is a list of the new items added to the collection of the Bangor Public Library during the week of May 31st throguh June 6th, 2012. Adult Fiction: Estleman, Loren, Burning Midnight; Palahnuik, Chuck, Invisible Monsters Remix; Sefton, Maggie, Cast On, Kill Off; Shaara, Jeff, A Blaze of Glory; Thayer, Nancy, Summer Breeze. Young Adult Fiction: Bes, The Besst Ghost Story Ever; Cast, P.C., Dragons Oath. Junior Fiction: Cottin, Menena, The Black Book of Colors; Doner, Kim, Buffalo Dream; Ryan, Pam Munoz, Amelia and Eleanor Go For A Ride. Junior Non-Fiction:

Floca, Brian, Moonshot; McNulty, Faith, If You Decide To Go To The Moon; Thong, Roseanne, Wish. Easy Fiction: Cur, Curious George at the Aquarium; Emberley, Ed, Glad Monster, Sad Monster; Fletcher, Ralph, The Sandman; Foley, Greg, Willoughby and the Lion; Lies, Brian, Bats at the Library; Martin, Bill, The Little Squeegy Bug; Ramirez, Antonio, Napi. Easy Non-Fiction: Mora, Pat, The Night the Moon Fell; Souhami, Jessica, Sausages. DVD: One For The Money. Reference: Atlas of the World; The World Book Encyclopedia.

Blue Valley Farm Show Announces Scholarship Recipients

The 2012-2013 Blue Valley Farm Show Scholarships have been announced. Each recipient will receive a $750 scholarship in a ceremony on August 25th at the Annual Blue Valley Farm Show. This years winners are Janessa Capozzolo of Bangor, and Laura Kromer of Easton. Janessa just graduated from Bangor High School and will be attending Temple University, majoring in Theraputic Recreation with a masters in Occupational Therapy. Janessa has been a member of the Northampton County 4-H Hunt Caps Club for the past 7 years. Laura Kromer also graduated from Bangor in June and will be attending Northampton Community College in the fall, majoring in Early Childhood Education to become an elementary teacher. Laura has been a member of the Northampton County 4-H Dairy Club for the past 9 years. She has been the secretary for two years, news reporter for two years and President for one year. Any student who is a past or present member of a Northampton County 4-H Club and will be attending an institute of higher education may apply for a scholarship. For more information, call 610-498-3389.

Victoria Nolte Wins Prestigious Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange Scholarship

Victoria Nolte, a high school student from Bangor, PA has been awarded the CongressBundestag Youth Exchange (CBYX) scholarship, which covers a year of study and cultural immersion in Germany. The CBYX program is operated under funding by the U.S. Department of State and administered in the Northeast United States by AFSUSA, a worldwide nonprofit student exchange organization. Victoria is one of only 50 students in the Northeast to receive this prestigious scholarship, and will be spending the 2012-2013 academic year living with a German host family and attending a local high school. Victoria was selected as a CongressBundestag scholar due to her demonstrated academic qualifications, cultural openmindedness and motivation. Victoria will serve as a youth ambassador from the United States for the academic year, while participating in educational, cultural and political events, including receptions and meetings with both German and American government officials. Introduced under a presidential initiative in 1983, the CBYX program aims to strengthen U.S.-German relations through citizen diplomacy and cultural understanding. In this time of global interdependence, the strong ties that bind the U.S. and Germany through trade and diplomatic relations are essential in U.S. foreign affairs. The CBYX program sees the importance of youth ambassadorship as a means to strengthen these ties. Dedicated supporter Senator Richard Lugar (IN) calls CBYX an extraordinary opportunity to learn about the world, gain a deeper understanding of people and issues, build lifelong skills, and expand horizons. To learn more about the CBYX program and find out how to apply for the 2013-14 academic year, visit www.usagermanyschola rship.org. To learn more about AFS-USA, the administering organization, visit www.afsusa.org.

East Bangor UMC Offering Free Baked Ziti Dinner

The East Bangor United Methodist Community Church welcomes you to a free "Baked Ziti" dinner with dessert on Sunday, June 24th, from 4pm to 6pm. Free baked goods (Manna Ministry) will also be available for take-home. This Manna Ministry is available every Sunday from 11am to 1pm. The church is located at 136 W. Central Ave. (Rt. 512), East Bangor, PA. For questions, call 610588-4453 or visit www.ebumc.org.

Mop Ponies Going To 4-H Fair

Backtrackers 4-H Horse & Pony Club members recently made Mop Ponies to exhibit at the 2012 Northampton County 4-H Fair on August 10th through 12th. The Mop Ponies gave the members a chance to express their creativity, design and whimsy all at the same time. Each member received a string mop and proceeded to make the mop into a pony. The ponies were then decorated by the members with various eyes, bridles, halters, and hair decorations. These will be on exhibit, along with many other 4-H projects at the 4-H Fair. The Northampton County 4-H Horse program works with over 150 members. Members need not own a horse to participate, merely have a love of horses. Many members are horseless; some members take lessons or lease horses at various stables. The clubs teach basic horsemanship, caring for the horses, leadership, communi-

Left to Right: Back Row - Brie Ludwig, Eileen Gallagher, Allison Fox, Nicole Fox, Kenley Rogers, Caitlin Gallagher and Allsion Moyer. Kneeling - Mayzi Edelheiser, Abigail Heald, Claire Smith, Faith Lewis and Chloe Lewis. Front - Anne Murdoch. cations and, above all, involve the members in community service projects. Many of these members will be exhibiting their horses and ponies at the 2012 Northampton County 4-H Fair on Sunday, Aug. 12th., starting at 9 AM. Classes will include equitation pleasure in both the Hunter and Stock Seat divisions, a driving demonstration, Gymkhana, Trail and Over-the-Fence classes. Spectators are welcome; the show is closed to Northampton County 4-H members only. The 2012 Northampton County 4-H Fair will be held from Friday, Aug. 10th., through Sunday, Aug. 12th. Friday & Saturday will host the animal science competitions and demonstrations. These days will also see the continuation of Community Days. Which provide demonstrations on various agricultural topics, sewing and other venues. Some of these will be make-it and take-it demonstrations for the younger people. During the entire fair there will be food, fun, exhibits, a silent auction, animals, displays, games and on Sunday there will be a chicken BBQ. Admission and parking are free; the public is welcome to view all events and participate in many of the demonstrations, etc. For more information concerning Backtrackers 4-H Horse & Pony Club or any aspect of the horse program, please call Janice Martin, 610-837-7294. For more information about 4-H in general or the 2012 Northampton County 4-H Fair or other aspects of 4-H, please call the Northampton County 4-H Offices at 610746-1970, Monday through Friday, 8-4 PM. Craig Stocker Jr. graduated from the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis on May 29th, with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Oceanography. He is the son of Craig Sr. and Karen Stocker of Bangor. Craig graduated from Bangor High School and Blair Academy. He received the H. McCoy Jones Award for athletic leadership and competitive spirit from the Naval Academy Foundation, The Class of 1972 Award for Leadership and the Navy/Marine Assoc. Leadership Award. Craig was commissioned as an Ensign in the Navy and will serve his first tour aboard the DDG106 USS Stockdale based in San Diego, CA.

Family and Friends of the late Dennis Strouse would like to thank everyone who participated in the Bake Sale held recently to benefit the 912 Scholarship Fund in Memory of Dennis. Thank you to the great bakers, the people who came out to buy, and the many monetary donations. A Special Thank You to Capitol Ace Hardware in Capitol Plaza and Main Street Market in Bangor for letting us use your premises for our Bake Sale, it was greatly appreciated. Sincerely, The Strouse Family Dear Contributor: Its that time of year again for St. Johns Cemetery in Bangor to ask for donations. Last year, we received $7,802.75 in contributions and all was used for grass cutting. It didnt take long to use it up. The cemetery pays $1,050 per cutting plus a fuel surcharge per cutting, because of the high cost of gasoline. The cemetery is mowed twice a month, with extra mowings if we have a lot of rain. The lawn maintenance contractor has only raised his fee once since we have contracted with him and that was over ten years ago. And he does a great job! In between, we have storms that require the tree service company to be called for tree cutting and clean-up. The cemetery has a great neighbor in Augustine Sebastionelli, whose property borders the cemetery on South 4th Street. He is a mason and general contractor and helps us whenever possible and rarely charges us for services. Recently he and his employee, Matt Travers, took it upon themselves to remove 3 obelisk monuments (which were ready to topple over) level them up and reset them. Since he has not charged for his services, the best thing I can do for him is recommend him to all of you and hire his company, if you desire. There are many more monuments that need straightening but with 25 acres, it is impossible for the cemetery to right them. Since last year, Carol Hontz was made a member of the Cemetery Board. She is the daughtr of Burdell S. Hontz, our Board President. Thank the Lord for some young blood. Since you have been so generous in the past, we are asking again for your support. All money received is used for the general upkeep and maintenance of the cemetery. No donation is too small. Donations can be forwarded to Carol Hummel, c/o St. Johns Cemetery, 136 Messinger St., Bangor, PA 18013. Thank you, Carol A. Hummel, Secretary

Slate Belt COG Internship Opportunities

The Slate Belt Council of Governments (SBCOG) continues to be alive and well. We could be better and we are seeking to improve. As part of our renewal plan, our SB-COG Board of Directors recently agreed to create internship positions. Our thinking is that student or other interns may bring new talent to our organization while providing the intern with some valuable work experience. Being optimistic, we look toward better economic times. For now we are pursuing some new initiatives to lower individual Township and Borough government costs by lowering energy consumption expenditures and/or arranging for multimunicipal services thereby saving individual municipalities money. If you are interested in joining our team, part-time, contact us at Rodite@slatebelt cog.org. Approximately two months ago, the Slate Belt Council of Governments held a Summit meeting. During that Saturday morning, about a dozen Slate Belt group leaders each gave a five-minute presentation on their organizations mission, accomplishments, and their vision for the Slate Belt Region. It was an enlightening morning. So many groups are involved with many good projects. They are involved with economic development, environmental preservation, recreational services, improved housing conditions, new business start-ups, emergency services, education, municipal services, downtown revitalization, and more.

Easy Ways to Give Back In Your Area

Grace UMC Plans SonRise National Park VBS
Grace United Methodist Church of Pen Argyl invites your children to join our Vacation Bible School program "SonRise National Park". The program begins Monday, July 9 and runs through Friday, July 13 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. each night. VBS is offered to all children in the community from ages 3 Grade 8. As kids explore SonRise National Park, they will learn the most important survival skill of all: they can always depend on Jesus and His promises of true peace, true riches, true power, true love and true hope! There will also be an adult study bring the kids and stay for the adult class held in the church sanctuary. On Saturday, July 14 at 11:00 a.m. the children will present a closing program for their families including songs they learned during the week. After the program, everyone is invited to our VBS fair which will offer food and games. Don't miss this exciting opportunity for your kids to have fun and learn about our Savior at the same time. If you have any questions about VBS, please contact the church office at (610) 8630387. sometimes volunteers need to attend a short training session before starting. For parents, lending time to chaperone a field trip is both fun and rewarding. * Consider donating blood through an American Red Cross blood drive. The need for blood is constant as approximately every two seconds a patient in the United States needs a blood transfusion. Just one donation can save up to three lives. After each donation, Red Cross donors are treated to Keebler cookies, beverages and other snacks as a way to say "Thank you" for their act of kindness. To learn more about the "Be a Good Cookie. Get a Good Cookie." campaign and for blood donation eligibility, visit redcrossblood.org. * Head to the local park for a clean-up. Get friends to chip in to help the community as well. Separate trash from recyclable items and dispose of each appropriately. See efforts materialize in a clean green space. * Organize a clothing drive with co-workers or friends. Schedule home pick-ups for a specific day, and donate gently used clothing to local charitable organizations. You'll be helping others, and you'll have more room in your closets. * Collect those canned fruits and vegetables, and take them to the local food bank. Check with them to see if they have a "wish list" of items that they need. Some of those things, shelf-stable or nonperishable, may already be sitting around your house. It's also great way organize your pantry. There are so many ways to give back. Simple acts of kindness are often the most valuable to those in need, and they are the easiest to perform. Whether saving a life, feeding a family or mentoring a student, every kind gesture brings a smile to more than one face.

(NewsUSA) - There are people all over the world who are struggling and in need of help. One could be right next door. While it's not always possible to help out financially, or donate a large amount of time to a cause, there are easy ways to perform simple acts of kindness every day. Not only does the person performing the good deed feel great, but these small gestures add

Ackermanville UMC Welcomes Pastor Solving Clean Water Challenges a Guepet Drop at a Time
The Congregation of Ackermanville United Methodist Church is excited to welcome Pastor Monica Guepet, her husband Steve and daughters Alisebeth and Falicity into our Church Family. Pastor Monicas induction service will be on July 1, 2012 at 10AM followed by a welcome luncheon. She has been Pastor of St. Paul UMC, Hellertown, PA since 2009 and previously served Lehman Memorial UMC Hatboro, Pa. Having earned a Master of Divinity Degree from Moravian Theological Seminary, Bethlehem, Monica has also been an active leader in Christian Student Fellowship while attending Penn State University. We look forward to Monicas leadership and vision for the future of AUMC, with hope, for a mission of community involvement and outreach. Welcome Pastor Monica. (NewsUSA) - Good, clean water. It's a basic necessity shared by families everywhere. Unfortunately, billions worldwide lack access to the safe water many others take for granted. In fact, contaminated water supplies are the leading cause of illness for millions of children globally. The Nature's Own Global Water Fund was created to address this dire situation by financially assisting nonprofit humanitarian organizations that provide fresh water to those in need worldwide. Filtration and purification systems are installed, wells are built and farms are irrigated through a vast multinational effort coordinated among multiple agencies, corporations and millions of concerned citizens. There is a way you can join in the effort. By purchasing any Nature's Own Water Care product, you're helping to make a contribution to the generous groups that keep healthy drinking water flowing to those who need it most. It's all part of the commitment by Nature's Own to improve water supplies throughout the world.

up to make a big difference. Contribute to the community with these simple deeds: * Gather gently used books. Contact schools, libraries and other institutions, such as hospitals and senior centers, to see if books are needed. Involve a book club or other community organization to increase the donation. * Call area schools and ask about volunteering. Many schools are looking for mentors and tutors. Depending on each school's policy,

Designed to return the water in your home to the clean, clear state nature intended, Nature's Own transforms water conditioning into water care, replacing traditional water conditioning products with pure, high-grade elements. The resulting water is more pure, tastier and gentler on your clothing and appliances than ordinary household water. Additionally, water treated with Nature's Own soothes and rejuvenates the body. Visit www.naturesown watercare.com to learn more about how you can help make a difference.

Plan Ahead for Safe Senior Driving

senior gets older. Sometimes, just a few simple adjustments, such as avoiding night or highway driving, can help prolong a senior's safe driving years. * Approach the conversation with safety as the main objective. Because driving is such a big part of independence, AAA advises to be prepared to face some resistance from the senior driver. Having facts and concrete examples available will help; and a caring tone may make all the difference. * Talk about the issue during discussions about retirement. Take the same careful approach

(NewsUSA) - No one wants to admit that aging affects their ability to drive safely. But experts agree that, although not all drivers are the same, driving ability generally begins to deteriorate around age 55. Kathleen Marvaso, AAA's vice president of Public Affairs, said that as the population ages, senior-driver safety is becoming an increasingly relevant and challenging issue for many families. "Many adult children of senior drivers are looking for help navigating this new and sometimes challenging road," she said. "Our research shows that one of the biggest questions is how to begin the conversation." AAASeniors.com, AAA's senior safety and mobility Web site, offers

the following advice: * Plan ahead. It's never too early to begin the conversation. Planning ahead means you can discuss gradual adjustments that may be needed over time as a

to transportation that you would with finances and other retirementrelated decisions. Future transportation needs may affect other retirement decisions, such as selecting a retirement home. For example, convenience to public transportation or the availability of onsite transportation become important criteria. "At AAA, we want to foster a society where older adults can remain confident and independent and live to their full potential," Marvaso said. "AAASeniors.com gives seniors and their families the tools necessary to create an action plan to help manage the inevitable consequences of aging, and to help seniors drive for as long as safely possible -- and remain mobile thereafter." In addition to information about how aging affects driving, and tips for talking to seniors about safe driving, AAASeniors.com also provides an expert advice section, driving skills assessment tools, tips for choosing a safer car, fact sheets, brochures, and referrals to driver-improvement courses and free community-based programs.

Beautiful Weatherproofing Protection For Exterior Wood Care Projects

(NAPSI)Caring for exterior wood surfacessuch as decks, fences, siding and furnituredoes more than just help the outside of your home look its best; it can protect your investment. Weatherproofing stains and finishes help protect wood surfaces from the harmful effects of the elements, ensuring a beautiful, long-lasting finish. According to the experts, weatherproofing protection for your deck and other exterior wood care projects can be broken down into three easy steps: preparation, color selection and staining/finishing. Here are some tips from Eric Lundquist, director of marketing for Stain & Specialty Products at Behr: 1. Preparation. Before you apply the stain, you need to properly prepare the surface. Thats the key to attaining a beautiful appearance and achieving long-lasting durability. Wood that has a peeling stain or finish, or is in poor condition, should be stripped to remove all previous coatings. Then clean with a wood cleaner such as the recently reformulated BEHR Premium AllIn-One Wood Cleaner. 2. Color Selection. This is an opportunity for you to use your favorite colors on the outside living spaces of your home. And remember that color changes and/or improvements you make to your homes exterior can enhance your homes curb appeal. Behrs Exterior Wood Care Center at The Home Depot offers color chips in-store and visualization tools so you can see what the colors will look like on a deck, fence, siding, furniture or composite surface. 3. Staining and Finishing. When you are ready to stain, be sure to use a 100-percent acrylic resin formulated to protect decks, siding and fences year-round. For more information, including exterior how-to instructions, visit WoodSmart by BEHR at behr.com.

Keep Your Grounds Looking Presidential

( N A P S I ) Homeowners dont need to live at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue to have a presidentiallooking lawn this year. Abiding by some simple rules can help homeowners maintain an environmentally sound yard they can be proud of. Take care of the grass. Lawns play a critical role in reducing soil erosion, maintaining soil permeability and conserving water. Choose flowers and plants that suit the climate. The correct plant types make care and maintenance easier and more cost efficient. Frequent and proper pruning helps produce better blooms, maintains plants desired size and can help rejuvenate older plants and shrubs. Enrich the soil with compost. Materials such as coffee grounds, yard clippings, wood chips and leaves help rejuvenate the soil by adding rich nutrients. Plant a tree. A great way to further beautify a green space, it also provides such benefits as cooling shade and filtered air. Thats the advice from Cindy Code, Project EverGreen executive director, who recently got a firsthand look at the White Houses iconic South Lawn when the organization was recognized by first lady Michelle Obama. The South Lawn at the White House is one of our countrys most famous green spaces, Code said. So many of our countrys key events take place on this lawn. Homeowners, too, can easily create an enjoyable, healthy lawn at their property without a lot of work. Project EverGreen is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and enhancing the countrys green spacesincluding lawns, parks, golf courses and sports fieldsfor future generations. Project EverGreens GreenCare for Troops program was recently honored by the White Houses Joining Forces initiative, spearheaded by first lady Michelle Obama and Jill Biden, wife of Vice President Joe Biden. The initiative honored 20 communities and organizations that assisted military families. The program pairs families of currently deployed military personnel with lawn and landscape contractors and volunteers who provide landscaping and lawn care services, free. The recognition is part of the White Houses Joining Forces initiative. For further information, visit www.project evergreen.com.

Save Dollars This Summer With These Entertaining Tips

(NewsUSA) - As warmer days beckon us outside, some folks just can't wait to host an outdoor summertime soiree. But it is tempting to overspend on decorations and accessories for a party. Adding a touch of uniqueness to your party while avoiding humdrum tiki torches and Japanese lanterns can quickly add up if you're not careful. Here are four budgetfriendly ways to add some character to your outdoor get-togethers: 1. Make it colorful. For a fast way to give your party a sense of retro style, colorcoordinate your bowls, plates and cups in an attention-grabbing neon color. Dollar General stores (www.dollargeneral.co m) sell plastic tableware in four neon colors: pool blue, grass green, sunshine orange and party pink. These items are inexpensive enough to buy in multiples, so if you plan on hosting several parties, you can use one color per occasion, then invite guests to your "blue party" or "orange party." 2. Pep up your decor with peppers. Add a memorable touch by serving condiments or finger foods in hollowed-out green, red and yellow peppers. Simply cut the stems and fill the peppers with ketchup, mayonnaise, barbecue sauce or any other appropriate item. Depending on the pepper's color, you may even be able to coordinate them with the rest of your tableware. 3. Create a field of dreams. For a whimsical addition, if the party is taking place on your lawn, purchase a variety of silk flowers and plant them upright in the ground. You can use them to mark paths through the yard or to the food tables and seating areas. As with the tableware, silk flowers are inexpensive at stores like Dollar General and are economical enough to buy in large quantities. They're also more durable than real flowers and can be used again and again. 4. Find unique ways to deter bugs. Certain herbs and flowers can repel insects. For instance, sprigs of parsley or tansy may help keep ants at bay, while lavender or mint could drive flies away.

Josephines Family Highlighted at Annual Kutztown Folk Festival

Lucille Gruppo, creator of Josephines Family Dolls has again been chosen to be one of 200 juried folk artists and traditional American craftsmen who demonstrate and offer for sale an exceptional range of fine works at the Kutztown Folk Festival, Booth C-22. For over 20 years Gruppo has created original, handmade, one-of-a-kind dolls, featuring Orphan Train Riders, Baby Bunting, Raggedy Ann, and many more original creations. Gruppo is a State juried member of The Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsmen. Gruppos dolls have been published several times in the international magazine Soft Dolls and Animals . Gruppo was commissioned to create a Signature Doll for this magazine and her doll Danny (named for her daughter, Danielle) was featured on the cover in the January, 2005 issue. Visit Josephines Familys websites at www.josephinesfamily. com and www.picturetrail.com/j History and Folklife, and many more attractions. The Kutztown Folk Festival runs from June 30 July 8, 2012, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., FREE parking. Kutztown is midway between Reading and Allentown, PA. Contact www.kutztown festival.com for more information. See you at the Fair!

osephinesfamily. Gruppo can also be reached at 610-5887930 or e-mail josephinesfamily@aol. com . Gruppos dolls are only one of the many wonderful attractions at the Kutztown Folk

Festival. The Festival has Americas largest Quilt Sale, Six Stages of Entertainment, 200 juried Folk and Traditional Craft Artists, Fun and Entertainment for Kids, Bountiful Pennsylvania Dutch Food, Pennsylvania Living

2012 Movies at Nazareth Borough Park

All movies will begin at sundown (approximately 9pm) on Saturday nights in the amphitheater at the Nazareth Borough Park, Broad St. extension, Nazareth. Don't forget to bring a blanket or chair to enjoy the movie. Movies are free to the public. June 23: Alvin & the Chipmunks (Chipwrecked) RATED G The vacationing Chipmunks and Chipettes are turning a luxury cruise liner into their personal playground, until they become 'chipwrecked' on a remote island. July 7: We Bought a Zoo RATED PG A true story about a single dad who decides his family needs a fresh start, so he and his two children move to the most unlikely of places: a zoo. With the help of an eclectic staff, and with many misadventures along the way, the family works to return the dilapidated zoo to its former wonder and glory. July 14: Journey 2: The Mysterious Island RATED PG It begins when young Sean Anderson receives a coded distress signal from a mysterious island where no island should exist. It's a place of strange life forms, mountains of gold, deadly volcanoes, and more than one astonishing secret. August 4: Soul Surfer RATED PG Bethany was born to surf. A natural talent who took to the waves at a young age, she was leading an idyllic life on Kauai, participating in national surf competitions with her best friend Alana, when everything changed. On Halloween morning, a 14-foot tiger shark came out of nowhere and seemed to shatter all her dreams. Soul Surfer reveals Bethany's fight to recover from her ordeal and how she grappled with the question of her future.

Chamber of Commerce Presents Annual Nazareth Kazoo Parade

The Nazareth Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to Present The Annual July 4th 2012 Nazareth Kazoo Parade, beginning at the Nazareth High School at 9:30 am. Join us at the Council Chambers at 10:45am for our Patriotic Program. Back By Popular Demand Grand Marshal: Abbe Miss G The Kazoo Lady of Woodstock, Blues SingerMaster Wooden Kazoo maker. Abbe "Miss G" Graber has been singing the blues and playing a blues style wooden kazoo for over 30 yrs. Miss G's kazoos are owned and loved by many famous musicians and singers. The list includes such notables as Levon Helm, John Sebastian, Wavy Gravy, Maria Muldaur, Jim Kweskin, Leon Russell, Pete Seeger, Aaron Neville, Cindy Cashdollar and many more. For more information, visit www.nazareth chamber.com.

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610-759-6518 for your next tune-up

The Nazareth/Bath Area abounds in opportunities for musical performances, historic sites, museums, recreational facilities, theater and special events. As expressed by the Lehigh Valley Convention and Visitors Bureau, Few areas in Northampton County boast such a splendid blend of rich culture, history and recreation against a landscape of rolling hills and winding rivers. Springtime brings color, ceremony and excitement to the area. Attractions include the Vigilance Hose Fire Companys Carnival, antique extravaganzas, a shad-fishing tournament along the Delaware River, and a Bach Choral Festival. Summer months in Nazareth are accented with a craft show at the historic Whitefield House (built in 1740) and Nazareth Day in the downtown business district and Borough Park. Baths outdoor farmers market, with home-grown produce, fresh baked goods and a variety of Amish specialties are available for purchase every Friday from June through September at Keystone Park. In August, the internationally acclaimed Musikfest takes place in Bethlehem. Also in August is the much-anticipated Annual Martin on Main which takes place in downtown Nazareth. Market Square Day ushers in the fall months with its setting on the Commons at Nazareths Moravian Hall Square. In late September, a Living History is staged with soldiers campsites and open houses at the Jacobsburg Environmental Center located north of Nazareth. The Celtic Highland Games and Festival takes place annually in historic Bethlehem. Bath Borough has Family and Friendship Days in September.

The winter months focus on historic events. Nazareth is known for its annual Walking Candlelight Tour, the YMCA Tree of Lights, and the Nazareth Towne Open House. The traditional Christmas Peace Pilgrimage, a 10-mile walk from Nazareth to Bethlehem, is scheduled in mid-December, as well as Nazareths Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. Bath Borough has a Christmas House Tour in December. Cross-seasonal attractions include a walk/drive through the Trexler Game Preserve (where native and exotic animals roam its 1,700 acres) and a day at Dorney Park/Wildwater Kingdom in Allentown. This park features one of the worlds tallest wooden roller coasters. Also dont miss Nazareths worldfamous Martin Guitar Company. For 176 years, the Martin Guitar Company has been continuously producing acoustic instruments that are acknowledged to be the finest in the world. As part of its mission, the Martin Guitar Company is dedicated to preserving and enhancing its unique heritage and the history of music. The Martin Guitar Museum showcases a collection of historical instruments, memorabilia, photographs and other objects to tell the Martin story - past and present - and the companys commitment to keeping the music alive. To celebrate the companys 175th Anniversary in 2008, Martin Guitar joined with the Borough of Nazareth, the Nazareth Chamber of Commerce and the Nazareth Downtown Association to introduce the Martin on Main festival. During the year, Evening On Main Street takes place with entertainment and shopping.

Healthy Eating Tips: Try Meatless Mondays

(NAPSI)Theres a new initiative, called Meatless Mondays, to help you improve your health. By eating plantbased foods in place of meat just one day a week, you can help reduce your risk of heart disease, cancer, diabetes and obesity. In fact, a recent Harvard University study found that by replacing saturated fat, found in animal foods, with foods rich in polyunsaturated fats (such as canola oil), the risk of heart disease was reduced by 19 percent. And adopting such a diet could save you money, as a plant-based diet tends to be less expensive. Serving a meatless meal that your family will enjoy starts with taste. Meat is appealing because of its savory taste, called umami. Umami is also naturally found in some vegetables (such as mushrooms and beans), dairy products and fish. Substituting another umami food for meat will help satisfy the desire for meat protein. Here are some tips to help you eat meatless on Mondays or any day of the week: Build your meal around whole grains and vegetables, which will fill you up with their fiber and texture. Follow the USDAs guidelinesdivide your plate so that half of it contains vegetables, one-quarter is whole grains and one-quarter is protein of some kind. Use inexpensive canola oil in place of butter and other saturated fats. Canola oil is cholesterol free,

trans fat free, low in saturated fat as well as high in unsaturated fat and omega-3 fat. Try new recipes such as flavorful umamifilled Mushroom Loaf. For this recipe and more information, visit the website at www.meatlessmonday.com.

For canola oil information, visit northern canola.com.

Add Some Life To Your Plate With Healthful Recipes

(NAPSI)For those people looking for a better-for-you change to their eating habits, the Mediterranean Diet, frequently touted by dietitians, includes foods that can boost overall health and even help prevent some diseases, such as cardiovascular disease and cancer. Olives and olive oil, the main sources of dietary fat in the Mediterranean Diet, contain heart-healthy monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) and polyphenols, which contain antioxidant and antiinflammatory properties. Incorporating these foods into your daily diet can have a positive impact on your overall healthwithout sacrificing flavor. There are many small steps you can take to reap the health benefits of olives and olive oil while enjoying the flavor they bring to dishes. For instance, try replacing butter with olive oil, satisfying salt cravings with a few olives versus a bowl of chips, or choosing a side salad drizzled with an olive oil vinaigrette in lieu of French fries when dining out. One easy, delicious recipe you can make at home is Edamame Hummus. Edamame, soybeans harvested prior to hardening, are used extensively in Asian cuisine and provide the foundation for this dip. Blend the protein- and fiberpacked edamame with olive oil, fresh kale or spinach, garlic and lemon juice and pair with pita wedges or crispy vegetables. The hummus can also be used as a better-for-you spread on sandwiches and wraps-perfect for a lazy day at the beach or an afternoon picnic. Opting for healthier choices throughout your day will make your heart and waistline say, thank you. For additional olive- and olive oilinspired recipes, and for a full report on the health benefits of olive oil and olives, visit www.addsomelife.org. Edamame Hummus 1 (13-ounce) bag frozen shelled edamame (soybeans) small onion, coarsely chopped 1 clove garlic, peeled cup firmly packed fresh kale or spinach cup extra-virgin or plain olive oil 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice Vegetable dippers or pita wedges, if desired Combine edamame, onion and cup water in large saucepan. Cover and bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer covered 8 to 10 minutes or until all the edamame is very tender. Remove from heat. Pulse garlic in food processor until well chopped. Add kale; pulse until chopped. Add edamame mixture, including liquid. Blend until finely chopped. With machine running, add olive oil and lemon juice. Serve with vegetable dippers or pita wedges. Also great on chicken or fish.

(NewsUSA) - The days are longer, the sun is stronger and beach season is almost here, but getting in shape for summer means more than hitting the gym. It is also important to keep your car in tip-top shape before you get on the highway for an early summer getaway. Firestone Complete Auto Care has the following tips to get your vehicle road-trip ready: * Before the summer

heat hits, be sure to have a full vehicle inspection -- including the air conditioner -- to be sure it is cooling correctly. Taking this step may help avoid costly repairs. * Check all four tires, as well as the spare, at least once a month and before every long trip. Use an accurate tire gauge to make certain your tire pressure is at the recommended level. Also, check the treads using a tread depth indicator. * When you are packing up vacation necessities, take care not to overload your vehicle. This could create excessive heat inside your tires and even cause tire failure. * Take a few moments to prepare and pack an emergency kit, including jumper cables, a

flashlight and batteries, gloves, simple tools, flares, nonperishable food and water, and, if you have one, your auto club membership card. Getting on the Highway * Use good driving habits. Accelerating quickly and stopping abruptly can prematurely wear out your vehicle's engine, transmission, tires and brakes. * To improve your fuel economy, try to maintain a constant speed in order to reduce strain on your vehicle. Use the cruise control setting when it is safe. * Caught in traffic with a rising temperature gauge? To eliminate some engine heat and help prevent your vehicle from overheating, put the vehicle in neutral and give it a little gas. Just like you invest the time to stay in shape, in your haste to get on the road, don't forget to take the time to make certain your vehicle is up to the task of safely hauling your family to your vacation destination.

(NewsUSA) - You drive safely and follow your vehicle's maintenance schedule, but that doesn't mean you'll never find trouble on the road. But with a little preparation, you can handle almost any roadside breakdown. Here are some tips to help you prepare for the most common types of roadside breakdowns: - Dead battery. Your kid left a light on in the

backseat or a door slightly ajar, and now the engine won't start. Jump-starting your car is the best way to get back on the road. Always keep a pair of jumper cables on hand. In case your battery dies at night, you might want to consider purchasing a hands-free light, such as the Might-D-Light Rechargeable LED Worklight (might-dlight.com). Flashlights

can prove unreliable, not to mention unwieldy while making repairs, but the MightD-Light's two rare earth magnets can attach to the underside of the hood or hang from a hook, illuminating the area you need to work. - Fuel. You were counting on finding another gas station, but one never materialized, and now you're stuck. Put on your hazard lights and, if possible, push your car to the side of the road. If you have a cell phone, stay in your car and call an emergency or roadsideassistance number. If not, you will have to start walking. If you're in a remote area, flag down someone who can help. If you're in a city or town, walk to the nearest gas station by heading towards lights or the nearest exit. - Flat tire. Always make sure that your spare tire's inflated before heading out. If you do need to change a flat, make sure that there's a safe distance between your body and the edge of the road before removing your spare tire and jack. A hands-free light will prove useful for nighttime repairs. The Might-D-Light can stand on its own, so you can set it up and then get to work. For added safety, the worklight includes two reflective strips which improve roadside visibility. For more information go to: www.might-dlight.com.

Things To Know Before Your Next Trip

Other benefits include: Travel and emergency assistance 24 hours a day, 365 days a year Auto rental collision damage waiver Lost luggage reimbursement Common carrier travel accident insurance, automatic common carrier travel accident death and dismemberment insurance, up to $500,000. Before you depart, make a list of the account numbers of the credit cards, debit cards or prepaid travel cards you plan to take and the numbers on your travelers checks. Keep the list with you. Give copies to a traveling companion and to someone at home who you can call in case of trouble. Keep cards in a safe place where they wont bend or scratch. Never write a PIN on the card or carry it in your wallet or purse. In Europe, you should plan to cash travelers checks at a bank in the country you are visiting, rather than presenting them to the merchant. To learn more, visit the website at www.AAA.com. *For information about the rates, fees, other costs and benefits associated with the use of the AAA Member Rewards Visa Signature credit card, visit www.AAA.com. This credit card program is issued and administered by FIA Card Services, N.A. Visa and Visa Signature are registered trademarks of Visa International Service Association and are used by the issuer pursuant to license from Visa U.S.A. Inc.

(NAPSI)Investing a little time and effort when preparing for your next trip can pay big dividends when it comes to safety and convenience. To help, here are some tips: Avoid exchange lines, and unfavorable exchange rates typically offered in airports, hotels and foreign banks, by purchasing foreign currency before leaving the United States. Always have local denominations to pay for taxi fares, tips and meals. When using ATMs, use the same caution you would when youre at home. Dont flash your cash after leaving the machine. Use only ATMs in safe locations and from reputable financial institutionssuch as large, wellknown foreign banks. Carry only the funds you need for each days outing. Keep photocopies of your key documents separately. Photocopies might not always be accepted but they can speed the process of

getting replacements and/or be better than nothing. To get extra financial protection when traveling, carry and use a credit card. To minimize risk of theft or loss, take only the cards you will need, not every card you have. Consider using a card that offers travel-related consumer rewards. For example, if you use the AAA Member Rewards Visa Signature credit card* to book your vacation, you can earn three times the dollars spent on travel purchases in benefit points, plus double points on gasoline purchases and one point on purchases everywhere else.

life-further education, better job prospects and more confidence in yourself. The campaign, which is also available in Spanish, directs individuals to a toll-free number (877-38YOURGED) and the campaign website, w w w. y o u r g e d . o r g , where they can find referrals to free GED programs and information on the GED diploma process. Tips on Finding Help Additionally, the site offers a zip-code search for local literacy centers, the hotline number, a simple sixstep process towards earning your GED, and inspirational stories from adults who have earned their GED. To learn more, call (877) 38-YOURGED or visit the website at www.yourged.org. (NAPSI)Getting a high school degree can be a sound investment. Students who drop out of high school tend to earn less and to have a lower quality of life. Many work multiple jobs just to support their family. Also, those without a GED diploma tend to get the lowest paid and the least stable jobs. As of 2009, nearly 30 percent of adults living in households at or below the federal poverty line did not have a high school credential. While people may know they need a GED diploma, they often lack the resources to get started. The Road to a Better Life To help, the Ad Council and the Dollar General Literacy Foundation have launched a series of public service advertisements (PSAs) promoting their national GED Achievement campaign. The campaign is designed to provide high school dropouts with the encouragement and information needed to begin the road to a GED diploma. Through this campaign, we hope adult learners are inspired to complete their high school education by pursuing a GED, said Susan Lanigan, member of the Dollar General Literacy Foundation board of directors. Stars Give Pep Talks A number of celebrities including Jamie Lynn Sigler (The Sopranos), Jerry Stiller (Seinfeld) and Christopher Lloyd (Back to the Future) are participating by giving a series of pep talks in the ads. The PSAs show that getting a GED diploma gives you access to more possibilities in

(NAPSI)Sharing traditions can help families stay strong. Whether its meeting for a weekly dinner, celebrating birthdays or taking vacations together, sharing enjoyable experiences is a

great way to strengthen bonds. For many families, vacationing together generates many lasting memories. For example, the Sayers family has enjoyed 15 years of ownership at Disneys

Old Key West Resort in Orlando, Florida. From celebrating Dads 74th birthday, to watching the kids eyes light up at Disneys Animal Kingdom, to holding hands in anticipation of their vacation, this family has never looked back. We started a family tradition thats encompassed four generations by becoming Disney Vacation Club Members, said Donald Sayers of Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, whose family was named May Timeshare of the Month winners. With a satisfaction rate of 85 percent and an occupancy rate that outpaces hotels by more than 20 percent, timeshares are a popular way for families to vacation together. To learn more, visit www.Vacation Better.org.

On Friday, June 22nd, the Rebels All-Star Cheerleading organization will sponsor a youth dance for children in 4th-8th grade. The dance will be held at the Bangor Elks on Broadway in Bangor. Dance is from 7pm to 9pm and

doors open at 6:30pm. Pay at the door. Parent pick-up. Come dance and have fun with the Rebels and DJ Loony Tunes. Hope to see you there! For more information contact Rebels Cherrie Sortore at 484-895-5033

or dance coordinator Jennifer Reese at 484645-9370. The Rebels are now accepting applications for their summer programs. Stop by their new location on Broadway in Bangor to see whats going on!

(NAPSI)This year, on October 10th, 4-H National Youth Science Day (NYSD) will offer students across the country a chance to take on the Annual 4-H EcoBot Challenge. The 2012 National Science Experiment, developed by Ohio State University and Ohio State Cooperative Extension, will test and

enhance engineering skills as youth assemble their own Eco-Bots and surface controls designed to manage an environmental cleanup. According to The 4-H Study of Positive Youth Development conducted by Tufts University, by participating in highquality positive youth development programs like 4-H, youth are more

likely to earn better grades and excel in science, and are more interested in pursuing science careers. The event will allow youth from across the nation to simultaneously complete the experiment. For information on how to participate in this event, visit www.4H.org/nysd.

Exciting Summer Adult Workshops at TGAI

Join Totts Gap Art Institute for a really special line-up of workshops. There is something of interest for everyone. They have an expert staff, including worldrenowned artisans that will be teaching these classes at extremely affordable prices. This summer, they are offering the following workshops for adults: Oil Painting, Basketry, Enameling, Origami, Sculpting, Sistine Fresco, Landscaping Photography, Scagliola and Fimo Jewelry. They will even have another Nature Walk scheduled on their 140 acre preserve. For more information, visit www.tottsgap.org. You can register for any of these workshops online.

Dream Big This Summer at Bangor Public Library

is expanding the program to include seventh and eighth graders. The children will read through selected novels and form discussion groups and a Book Club. Michelle said that the children will be reading a variety of literature from ghost stories to poetry, plays and non-fiction. They will also learn Braille and interesting facts about nocturnal animals. In July, there will be a program called Dream Big-Be A Scientist. Its a forty-five minute program about dinosaurs, fossils, bugs, rocks and undersea creatures. Its an interactive hands-on program to promote science and math in conjunction with the summer reading program. New books for the summer program include Glad Monster-Sad Monster, The Little Squeegy Bug Buffalo Dreams and Cant Sleep Without Sheep. Merchants Bank donated funds for several new books for the Summer Program. Bangor Public Library is always interested in accepting volunteers to help and read stories and to do crafts for the summer program. Michelle and her family have been volunteering and her son Hudson is on the staff at the Library. During Heritage Day, there will be a sign-up sheet and more information at a location near the Library. The Library can be reached at 610-588-4136. Pre-School Reading Program is Tuesdays at 10am; 1st-3rd grades Wednesdays at 6pm; 4th-6th grades Thursdays at 6pm and 7th-8th grades Mondays at 6pm.

Something exciting will be happening at the Bangor Public Library once again. The Summer Reading Program will begin June 25 and last until August 10, with Michelle Rollman as co-coordinator for the second year. As a former elementary school teacher, I realize how important reading is especially during the summer. Thats why Im excited to bring fun, educational experiences to the kids here in

By Maria Cascario

Bangor, said Michelle. Children in the Bangor Area School District are invited to participate in this program free of charge. Were doing things differently this year since our theme is Dream Big said Michelle, with a smile. We also realize that people are so busy during the day, we decided to have the program at night for first through eight graders. Time is 6 to seven pm. Pre-K remains the same; Tuesdays at 10am. This year, the Library

New: Queen Pillowtop Mattress Set, very pretty and comfortable. Still in plastic. Can help with delivery. Must sell. 570-213-7731. (9/10) Landscapers: New, never used Honda engine, Brick, Block, Tile GXV530 Masonry Table $550, OBO. Back Saw: Wet/Dry window for GMC 110/220. New 14 Pick Up, $100, Diamond Blade. OBO; CatBack Muf$500 OBO, local fler for GMC, $125, area. Call 610-739- OBO; Wider Pro 9930 Home Gym, 2700. (4/10) $125, OBO. Call Glide Chair: with 8 610-588-2827. (2/5) ft. track, $250. New alum. folding ramp, 3 ft. by 7 ft., $125. Call 610-863-7311. (3/5) 4 Piece Living Rm Set and 2 Barstools: Bennington Oak. Call 973-6912651 anytime, leave a message. Asking $500. (2/5) Dog Pen: 6x10x20 with steel roof, one gate, $600. Call 610-909-7259. (2/5)

2 Cannon Mag 10 electric downriggers: swivel bases, rod holder, One w/ telescopic boom, one 4 boom. $350 each or best offer. Call 610-909-7259 (2/5)

Local Support Makes Eagle Scout Project Memorializing Veterans Possible

A local Boy Scout, Sam Miller, led a heartwarming Eagle Scout Project to erect a flagpole to memorialize all veterans. The pole and surrounding area at Bushkill Townships Recreation Ballfields have been named Veterans Flagpole. The project began last fall when Sam starting working with the township. The efforts of parents and scouts of Boy Scout Troop 74 of Bushkill Township along with other local residents and businesses helped make the project possible. Among those contributors was Paul Luongo, of MNB Investment Services, who personally donated $500, which was matched by Merchants Bank. Paul alerted bank CEO, Anthony J. Biondi, of the need for funding and Anthony immediately agreed to help: Merchants Bank is elated to support the Veterans Flagpole, as were not only helping to memorialize those who selflessly serve and have man. It was an honor to support this project. Sam recently reflected on the completed memorial, Im extremely pleased that we were able to help both the township and our local veterans. The project provided the perfect opportunity to bring different people and groups together to support our community and honor the men and women who served our country. The $1,000 donated by Merchants Bank and Paul Luongo helped defer the cost of purchasing the flagpole.

served our country, were also encouraging community service in our young leaders. Sam Miller spoke at the ceremony, expressing gratitude to our veterans, as the Scouts of Troop 74 raised the flag for the first time at the Memorial Day dedication. Boy Scout Troop 74, local residents, township

officials and other supporters including State Representative Marcia Hahn and Congressmen Charlie Dent also attended the event. Paul Luongo also attended the flagraising and was touched by the efforts of Sam and his fellow scouts: Sam is a dedicated and driven young