The 10th annual "The Gathering" kicks off at 1 p.m. Saturday at the Trout Run Covered Bridge in Slatington.

Sponsored by the Northern Lehigh Historical Society, proceeds from the event will benefit the Slatington, Washington Township "Slate Heritage Trail".Ted Kistler, president of the NLHS, said the event is the only fundraiser the organization does each year for the maintenance and upkeep of the trail."It started out when we dedicated the bridge," Kistler said. "For some reason we just named it The Gathering due to so many people were there."Over the years, Kistler said the event has taken on an identity all its own."It became an annual event, where our slogan is 'where old friends meet new friends'", he said. "Every year, it's gotten better and better, weather permitting."There will be food, beverages, and crafts all day; hay wagon rides from 1 p.m. to dusk; bingo under the big tent from 1-4 p.m., a 50/50 drawing (tickets available); and a Chinese basket auction (drawing at 7 p.m.).Entertainment will consist of Victoria Lear - Beautiful Oblivion, and Danny Abruzzi, from 1-3 p.m., Forgotten Mountain Boys, 3-5 p.m., Brotha from Anotha, 5-7 p.m., Droppin Trou, 7-9:30 p.m., and Mike Peters and John Ortiz in the Bier Garten after the fireworks"grand finale".Parking is available at the Bob Labold Maintenance Building, along W. Church Street. Also, limited parking will be available at the Covered Bridge.For more information, contact the Northern Lehigh Historical Society at

nlhs101@hotmail.com, or call (610) 760-9281.