GRADUATIONS: Over 6,000 degrees were awarded during The University of Alabama’s spring 2025 commencement ceremonies at Coleman Coliseum. The University provides numerous opportunities for service and growth through its educational, social and cultural experiences. Local students include: Gabriel Fahey of Breinigsville who received a Bachelor of Science in commerce and business administration and Sierra Russo, also of Breinigsville, who received a Bachelor of Arts degree.

Maggie Mauro a resident of New Tripoli and a graduate of Northwestern Lehigh High School has earned degrees in creative writing and publishing/editing from Susquehanna University.

Maggie earned the distinction of valedictorian of Susquehanna University for her class of 2025. She finished with a 4.0 grade-point average. Maggie is a member of Alpha Lamba Delta, an honor society. For earning the highest GPA in the honor society, she received the Maria Leonard Award. Also, Maggie participated in the Honors Program. She graduated summa cum laude with University Honors. In addition, she earned the Outstanding Service in the English Program award.

YARD SALE: Community yard sale, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. June 28 at New Jerusalem Zion UCC, 1456 Krumsville Road, Route. 737 (across from Greenwich Elementary School), Krumsville. There is a cost of $10 for a 10 foot x 10 foot outdoor space. Please bring your own tables. Come to buy or sell. Rain or shine! Call 484-547-2356 to reserve your spot.

BETHELFEST: New Bethel Church, 135 New Bethel Church Road, Kempton, will be hosting its fifth year BethelFest from 5 to 9 p.m. June 27. Bluegrass, gospel and folkloric music by Dave Kline and musical guests. Free admission. Food and drinks for sale. Bring a lawn chair. If rain, it will be in the sanctuary. All proceeds benefit the church’s local mission.

PLANT SALE: Pollinator Day and native plant sale, Lehigh Gap Nature Center, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. June 21. Bee presentation by Tom Lindeman from Dedko’s Bees at 11 a.m. Proceeds from plant sale benefit the nature center’s native landscaping programs. Peruse an exhibit of bee-themed artwork produced by local artists. Lehigh Gap Nature Center, 8844 Paint Mill Road, Slatington.

BIKE TOUR: Pack up your bike and explore the D&L Trail with Lehigh Gap Nature Center Board Member Brandon Fogal from 5-8 p.m. June 26. The Lehigh Gap Bike Tour will begin at Lehigh Gap Nature Center’s Osprey House, 8844 Paint Mill Road, Slatington and go up to Weissport and back, totaling about 15 miles round trip. We will make stops along the way to learn about local history and ecology. The trip includes a professional guide, and participants must bring their own bikes and helmets as these items will not be provided. Please bring a backpack with water and a snack, and be sure to pack some cash to stop for ice cream on the way back! This activity is family-friendly. However, the recommended minimum age to participate is 10. Registration is required and spots are limited. To register, go to https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/lehigh-gap-bike-tour. There is a fee per person for members and nonmembers.

FRESHWATER SNORKELING: Discover the fascinating ecosystem that lies below the Lehigh River at the Lehigh Gap Nature Center’s What’s in the Water? Freshwater Snorkeling in the Lehigh River event 6-8 p.m. July 1. During this special program with LGNC and Berks Nature, participants will have the opportunity to wade and snorkel in the shallows of the river. There is a fee per person for members and nonmembers.