It's that time of year again when straw men will undoubtedly begin to crop up in Palmerton.

But not to worry. Any sightings of the creative figures are designed as part of the borough's fourth annual scarecrow contest.Sponsored by the Palmerton Area Chamber of Commerce, the displays will be available during the participants' business hours throughout October.Each year, the event grows in popularity, according to event coordinator Joan Turko."We are asking businesses, and now private residences, to decorate the community with scarecrows," Turko said. "Let's show our creativity to our fellow Palmertonians and those visiting our town."Turko said businesses may now decorate in a fashion that showcases their merchandise, while private homes have various options for scarecrow design.She urged businesses to display a scarecrow in front of their business, or in their storefront window, in October. For residential display, an ideal location is the front of their homes, Turko said."We are delighted to be welcoming new participants this year," she said.Turko said those in need of a stand should contact Brian Billig at Palmerton Lumber Company to make arrangements.Anyone with questions about this year's scarecrow decorations should contact Turko at 610-826-2716, or at

turkoadv@ptd.net.