Ironton Rail Trail Oversight Commission has reported the phenomenal growth of trail use during 2020. An IRT leader said there was a record-breaking 37-percent increase in trail use. No doubt the pandemic provided people the opportunity to get outdoors, exercise or just enjoy the peaceful ambience of the trail.

If you want to volunteer to help the IRT effort during 2021, visit irontonrailtrail.org.

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Reminder: Sign-ups began last week for the Coplay Sports 2021 baseball and softball seasons. Sign-up dates continue noon-2 p.m. Feb. 6 and 20 and March 6 and 6-8 p.m. Feb. 17 and March 13. Sign-ups are at the Coplay Sports clubhouse.

Parents can also sign up online at coplaysports.org.

Contact Fred Romano at romanoreddevil09@aol.com with questions.

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Coplay Borough is seeking lifeguards, a pool manager and a person or group to operate the swimming pool’s concession stand for the 2021 pool season.

If interested in any of these positions, contact the borough office at 610-262-6088 or visit the borough’s website at coplayborough.org.

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February begins the petition signing period for those seeking a seat on borough council and/or for mayor in the May primary election. Several seats are up for election on Coplay Borough Council, and the mayor’s office will be on the ballot this year.

If you have the fire in your belly for elected public office, visit the voters registration office link on lehighcounty.org for information about the 2021 local elections.

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Coplay Neighborhood Crime Watch’s recent alert on catalytic converter theft is worth a read.

If you want to receive crime watch alerts, techniques and view the monthly Coplay police reports, send an email to billleiner@aol.com to join.

The CNCW was founded in 2004 by the late Frank Dickman, a longtime advocate for Coplay. Frank’s motto was, the CNCW “is the eyes and ears of the police department.”

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Please wear a mask when outside, socially distance at least 6 feet, wash your hands frequently, and avoid large gatherings. This is for your safety and the safety of others.

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To have an announcement or something shared in this column, submit via email to billleiner@aol.com or text message via 610-751-2745.