Whitehall-Coplay Press

A new chapter in local history unfolded last week when the Whitehall Area Chamber of Commerce officially opened its new office and visitors center.

A ribbon cutting took place July 31 at the site in front of the Lehigh Valley Mall off MacArthur Road and Route 22, one of the most visible locations in the region.

An overflow crowd of dignitaries, chamber members and officers, politicians, mall personnel and the public packed the chamber's new home for the celebration.

It's hopeless.

At a summer carnival or on a stop at the grocery store, I see an acquaintance across the lawn or down the aisle. I offer a warm smile and a "Hey, how are you?"

A friendly conversation ensues and all the while I am frantically trying to remember the person's name and sometimes even how I met her.

If I am lucky, she will steer the conversation in the direction of recalling a shared event or a mutual friend, helping me to recall where we met, but still, the name is often mystifyingly gone. It comes back to me on the drive home.

The Catasauqua American Legion proudly presents King Henry and the Showmen on Friday, Aug. 24.

Light refreshments and beer and soda will be served from 7 to 8 p.m.

The showtime is 8 to 11 p.m. Tickets can be purchased in advance or at the door and seating is limited to 170 persons.

For tickets, contact Dave Coy at 484-597-6854 or call the legion at 610-264-1606.

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Everyone, mark your calendar so you remember the date of the St. John the Baptist Church picnic this year.

The picnic will be held on the church grounds, located at Ruch and Chestnut streets, Sunday, Sept. 2. This event is always a fun time to see neighbors and friends.

More details to follow.

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Musikfest continues through this weekend in Bethlehem.

You will find a huge number of free musical performances to attend. Be entertained by the talented performers and enjoy some delicious ethnic food fare, too.

THURSDAY 9

· Delaware, Lehigh & Susquehanna Model Railroad Club meeting – 7-9 p.m., Coplay Borough Hall, Fourth and Center streets. Open to all model railroaders ages 14 and older. Information: Dick Lobach at 610-965-2598.

· Al-Anon Family Support Group meeting – 7-9 p.m., First Presbyterian Church, corner of Tilghman and Cedar Crest, Allentown. For adult children of alcoholics and dysfunctional families. Information: 610-395-3781.

· Bingo – doors open 5:30 p.m. Games begin at 7 p.m., Petersville Rod and Gun Club, Moore Township. Information: 610-261-2210.