After recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance at the March 4 Washington Township supervisors' meeting, resident Ed Ziegler asked the board for a moment of silence for two individuals who contributed to the township and who recently died.

Jake Merkel was celebrated at a party in 2006 for his 62 years of service with Friedens Fire Company. He was 87 when he died.

The second man was Frank Dengler, a supervisor at Lowhill Township for many years, and brother to Washington supervisor Roy Dengler. Dengler was helpful to the township on many occasions.

In other matters, donations were presented to the Friedens and Emerald Star Hose fire companies and to Slatington Public Library.

The library sent a letter thanking the township for its support throughout the year.

The annual donation is $2,000. The 2013 financial statement received by the township showed a deficit.

John Kisthardt was named township representative to the library, a position he has held for many years.

Star Hose received $5,000 dollars, the annual donation, and $15,000 toward its truck fund.

Friedens Fire Company also received a $5,000 donation.

Joel Merkel thanked Roadmaster Tommy Dengler for his help.

"Whenever I called, he responded," said Merkel.

Dwayne Henritzy, assistant fire chief, asked if Friedens could make and sell house address numbers as a fundraiser. Approval was given by the board.

He also asked supervisors to continue quarterly meetings with the fire companies.

Sherry Graver announced Community Emergency Response Team training classes will be held.

On May 3, a biking fundraiser will be held along the Delaware and Lehigh Trail to benefit St. Luke's Hospice.

The event will be from Lehighton to Treichlers and back, Graver said.

During public comment, Ziegler repeated his assertion the Pa. Turnpike bridge in Emerald does not need to be replaced but only newly blacktopped to stop the noise cars make. He said the bridge was built in 1956.