They've marked their territory, right smack dab in the heart of downtown Palmerton.

Not to fear; the borough's downtown isn't being overtaken by the odd-looking fellows that have sprouted up in front of businesses along Delaware Avenue.Just in time for the season, various straw men will continue to be displayed throughout the month as part of the borough's fourth annual scarecrow contest.Sponsored by the Palmerton Area Chamber of Commerce, the displays are available during the participants' business hours.Event coordinator Joan Turko said businesses are encouraged to showcase scarecrows in front of their business or in their storefront window.Turko said businesses may decorate in a fashion that displays their merchandise.However, the scarecrows aren't limited to businesses only, as private homes have options for scarecrow design as well.For residential display, Turko said an ideal location is the front of their homes.In 2011, the chamber sponsored the contest as the beginning of the borough's celebration of the centennial of its incorporation.Anyone with questions about this year's scarecrow decorations should contact Turko at 610-826-2716 or

turkoadv@ptd.net.