BETHLEHEM PRESS

January 18, 2017

COVER STORY

Kids, kings and fellowship

The sixth annual Three Kings Celebration Jan. 8 at SteelStacks was presented by ArtsQuest in cooperation with the Bethlehem area Hispanic community. The religious and cultural tradition of many Latin American countries featured the three wisemen, or Magi, in regal costumes who came to visit with families and distribute gifts to their children. Hand-crafted paper crowns were worn by many children in honor of the three kings. Holy Infancy Catholic Church of South Bethlehem provided Hispanic food and local Latin bands Herencia Jibara and Los Pleneros USA performed on the Musikfest Cafe stage to a large crowd. Photo: King Gaspar holds Madeleine and Dominic Grim during the gift-giving session. The young children were with Jason and Blanca Grim of Orefield, who were attending the Hispanic Christmas season event for their first time. Ramon Rodriguez of Bethlehem played Gaspar, one of the three kings handing out gifts to the children.

By Tim Gilman

NEWS ANALYSIS

County entangled in gruesome murder case

A fellow at the losing end of a custody battle used to stand outside the Northampton County courthouse every morning. He carried handwritten signs lambasting several county judges, as well as Children, Youth and Families (CYF) Division. From time to time, child abuse awareness groups also protest on the courthouse steps. All are regarded with healthy skepticism. But now Sara Packer, a former adoption supervisor in Northampton County, has been charged with participating in the rape, murder and dismemberment of her own adopted daughter, Grace. Will the public feel less confident in CYF caseworkers?

By Bernie O’Hare

ENTERTAINMENT

A colonial-inspired dining experience

The Tavern at the Sun Inn, which opened in December, is a unique addition to downtown Bethlehem’s impressive list of restaurants. What makes it special is its colonial-inspired menu, extensive wine list from local vineyards, and Ales of the Revolution produced by craft brewers in eastern Pennsylvania. Executive Chef Billy Grunenwald (photo) says his menu pays homage to the true farm-to-table aspect of early tavern fare by keeping ingredients fresh, seasonal and based for the most part on what early Bethlehem settlers would have had available. “We’re keeping things simple, with minimal ingredients and lot of herbs.”

By Carole Gorney

CLASSROOM

Preparing for vespers

Moravian Academy students began preparing in early December for the annual holiday season Vespers services at Central Moravian Church in downtown Bethlehem. The Middle and Upper School Vespers were held Dec. 8 and the Lower School services were the next day. This year’s Vespers were of special significance for the local private school, which is celebrating its 275th anniversary during the 2016-17 academic year. Photo: Tristen Rodney and Reith Lutostansky ring large bells during a seventh grade hand bell choir rehearsal. Lutostansky’s bell has a large clapper - the tongue of a bell.

By Tim Gilman

BETHLEHEM SPORTS

Landis registers career win 150

When it comes to taking part in basketball events, there’s one that stands out above the rest for Liberty head coach Chad Landis. Taking part in the Yasso-Rothrock Christmas City Classic has a deeper meaning for the Hurricane coach, who worked under Todd Rothrock as an assistant at Liberty before taking over as head coach of the program nine years ago. That’s why Saturday’s 76-54 victory over Blue Mountain gave Landis smiles for several reasons outside of winning. It was one of the best offensive outputs by the Hurricanes all season, as they compiled 20 assists as a team en route to keeping Blue Mountain at bay.

By Peter Car

LV FOCUS

Late bloomers

There is a natural schedule of signature color changes that our native trees follow each fall season. We are all familiar with the vivid autumn colors. The flowers that trees produce, however, bloom from early spring, like the tulip tree, to the unusual witch-hazel, which blooms from October often into March. Witch-hazel is also known in some areas as snapping hazelnut, spotted alder and winter-bloom. They grow throughout northeast and southeast North America from Florida to Nova Scotia and the Great Lakes to Texas.

By Bud Cole

OTHER STORIES

Bethlehem: Reynolds proposes moves for more open governance

Bethlehem: BAPL book sale begin Jan. 25

Bethlehem HARB approves 3 project plans

Bethlehem: Authority to study infrastructure safety

Northampton County: Cusick remains council president

Northampton County: Council questions dog licensing change

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Center for Animal Health and Welfare

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January 25, 2017

COVER STORY

‘All about overall love’

About 75 marchers braved the wintry weather Jan. 16 and proceeded to Martin Luther King Park on Carlton Avenue in South Bethlehem for a ceremony marking the national holiday honoring Dr. King. Bethlehem’s Martin Luther King Civil Rights Movement March originated in 1969, a year after the civil rights leader’s death. March founder and Bethlehem native John Baker continues to walk in the annual event at the age of 73. Another civil rights-minded Bethlehem native and Liberty HS graduate, Frankie West, is the event’s current coordinator and has been a longtime participant. Photo: Dr. Martin Luther King Civil Rights Movement March proceeds along Broadway in South Bethlehem, led by John Baker, event founder, Jasius Allen of Clearview ES, Samad Thorne and march coordinator Frankie West. The Liberty HS Grenadier Band color guard marches in the background.

By Tim Gilman

PEOPLE

Eagle project benefits city park

Visitors to Bethlehem’s Monocacy Park will benefit from the hard work of Eagle Scout Nicholas LaRoza, who has completed an information kiosk at the head of the Monocacy Pathway where it meets the parking lot along Illick’s Mill Road. LaRoza, a junior at Northampton HS, is a member of Bethlehem based Troop 318 and resides in East Allen Township with his parents, Steve and Dawn LaRoza. Photo: Joined by City of Bethlehem recreation administrator Jane Persa and his parents, Steve and Dawn, Nicholas LaRoza pins the first information notice into the Monocacy Park kiosk he constructed as his Eagle Scout project.

By Dana Grubb

CHAMBER LUNCHEON

Roy shares good news, but worrisome future

Following an introduction by Bethlehem Area School District solicitor Donald Spry, newly named Pa. Superintendent of the Year Dr. Joseph Roy embodied the responsibilities of his station Jan. 19 by specifying, “I should clarify: That was covered by the retainer and not additional billable hours.” Photo: Superintendent Dr. Joseph Roy lays out the district’s initiative priorities for the near future.

By Nate Jastrzemski

BETHLEHEM SPORTS

Bethlehem Catholic sputters at Who’s #1

Jeff Karam couldn’t remember the last time Bethlehem Catholic’s wrestling program lost two dual meets in one day, but that’s how Sunday afternoon unfolded for the Hawks at FloWrestling’s Who’s #1 Duals at Easton Area Middle School, as Becahi dropped their final two dual meets of the national showcase. The Hawks entered the day ranked 7th in the country by Intermat, but left with a fourth-place finish following a 36-21 defeat to Malvern Prep (ranked 8th) in the consolation round. Becahi lost their final bout of pool action when Florida’s Lake Highland Prep (ranked 4th) scored a 39-26 win earlier in the afternoon to keep the Hawks from advancing to the final against Blair Academy.

By Peter Car

LV FOCUS

Old Vienna

Many people have watched the famous Vienna Philharmonic over the years performing their New Year’s Eve program, or the violinist Andre Rieu and his orchestra, with his elaborate Viennese inspired concerts. Programs of Viennese music featuring composers from Vienna, Austria, have become very popular and are often enhanced by a chorus, or dancers and a variety of soloists. Since the February concerts of the Allentown Symphony Orchestra, 7:30 p.m. Feb. 11 and 3 p.m. Feb. 12, occur very close to Valentine’s Day, I wanted to offer a very special program for listeners that features some of this popular Viennese music, hence, “Viennese Nights.” It is a wonderful way to celebrate and enjoy a program of beautiful music with someone you love.

By Diane Wittry

OTHER STORIES

Bethlehem: Council renames city departments

Bethlehem: Habitat dedicates Garrison St. home

Bethlehem: School dostroct face $12,5M deficit

Holiday: Southside library hosts holiday party

Holiday: Seasonal smile for LVHN patients

Holiday: Fountain Hill welcome holiday season

Holiday: Telling the Christmas story at Edgeboro Moravian Church

Lehigh County: Nothstein new board chair

Northampton County: Brown says county cooperating with Packer investigation

Northampton County: Gracedale shows first profilt since 2007

Valley: PPL Corporation donate $10,00 to Rec Corss of LV-Berks

Valley: PASR celebrates 50 years, installs new officers

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February 1. 2017

COVER STORY: TWO DAYS IN DC

Locals excited, energized at inauguration

Though its aftermath was controversial, the presidential inauguration Jan. 19 was attended by many Lehigh Valley residents wishing to experience firsthand the changeover from the Obama to Trump administrations. Tony Simao, a Bethlehem resident who works in health insurance, was a regional coordinator for Trump’s primary campaign and arrived in Washington, D.C. Thursday to attend the ball at the National Press Club building. He said there were about 200 protesters outside but inside all was quiet. Photo: Local resident Tony Simao attends the DeploraBall on Thursday evening at the National Press Club. The ball was named for Hillary Clinton’s campaign comments disparaging Trump followers as “deplorables.”

By Nate Jastrzemski

Bethlehem women inspired by march

Among the thousands of people who flocked to the Mall in Washington, D.C. the day after President Trump’s inauguration to take part in the Women’s March were several busloads from the Lehigh Valley. The people the Press talked to echoed the general consensus among marchers that the event was inspiring and emphasized the peacefulness of the event and the respect among marchers and with law enforcement officers patrolling the throngs. Photo: Linda Robertson of Bethlehem and husband Don participate in the Women’s March. Linda said she bought tickets to go on one of the buses five days after the election, but later decided to drive to D.C.

By Julie Swan

RELATED STORIES

County bagpiper performs in inaugural event

‘Our voices will be heard’

Senator Pat Toomey begins second term

Citizen groups call on Toomey to oppose DeVos appointment

COMMUNITY

Fountain Hill welcomes Cops ‘n’ Kids

Volunteers from PPL, Moravian College, and Liberty HS came to Fountain Hill ES Jan. 13 for a special event organized by Cops ‘n’ Kids Literacy Program. The event was in honor of the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. holiday so students could learn more about Dr. King’s powerful message of peace and equality. Photo: Liberty HS student volunteers hold the four different books donated by PPL, along with Eve Russo (left middle) and Beverly Bradley (right middle), president of Cops ‘n’ Kids, which just celebrated donating 776,000 books aiding in the organization’s mission of “connecting kids and community through literacy.”

By Alli Poczak

BUSINESS

Carlos offers hand-crafted goodies

Just last year the infamous Buddy Valastro chanced his legacy in Bethlehem, but now he is back for more. Just one year after planting Buddy V’s Ristorante, Buddy Valastro and his famiglia have officially opened the doors of their 15th Carlo’s Bakery location. Photo: Carlo’s Bakeryis located on the ground floor of the Sands Outlets, near the Steel Magnolia Spa & Salon.

By Selena Cinton

TRAVEL

At the Rose Parade

As is traditional, both universities playing in the Rose Bowl have a float in the Rose Parade. Penn State cheerleaders were hopeful of a victory against the University of Southern California that afternoon, but it wasn’t to be.

By Carole Gorney

CLASSROOM

Charter Art’s holiday ice show

The Lehigh Valley Charter HS for the Arts (Charter Arts) Figure Skating Department, under the direction of Artistic Director of Figure Skating, Thom Mullins, performed a special holiday show in December at the Steel Ice Center. The “Charles Brown - Home for the Holidays Ice Show” had quite an audience and showed the abilities of these young skaters. This family-friendly show featured a grown-up Charlie Brown who is living in New York City but longs for a hometown holiday. The show featured over a dozen Charter Arts figure skating students during the hour or so show. Photo: Eve Greene skates to “It’s Beginning to Look a lot Like Christmas.”

By Ruth Grady

BETHLEHEM SPORTS

Hawks take EPC wrestling title

Nazareth gave Bethlehem Catholic a scare Saturday night in the East Penn Conference wrestling championship, but the Golden Hawks proved to be too strong. The Hawks used falls from Jody Crouse (220) and Niko Camacho (HWT) to steal momentum and pull away for a 40-20 victory at Easton Area Middle School.

By Peter Car

LV FOCUS

White Russian

“Swan Lake” is regarded as one of the greatest ballets of all time. The internationally-renowned State Ballet Theatre of Russia performs “Swan Lake,” a magnificent classic ballet in a grand, full-scale production in four acts, 7:30 p.m. Feb. 8, State Theatre Center for the Arts, 453 Northampton St., Easton.

By Camille Capriglione

OTHER STORIES

Bethlehem: Homeowners solar panel plan rejected

Bethlehem: Palette Club marks 50^th anniversary

Bethlehem: Businesses could pocket $18.2M under school tax elimination

Valentine’d Day: Survey says … What gifts women, men want

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CORRECTION

Nitschmann lecture set for Feb. 7 at Moravian Archives

"Recovering Anna Nitschmann: A Vision for a New Biography," a lecture by Katherine Faull, will be held at 7 p.m. Feb. 7 at the Moravian Archives, 41 West Locust Street, Bethlehem.

Faull, the visiting scholar at the Center for Moravian Studies, and a visiting professor at Moravian Theological Seminary, will look at how Anna Nitschmann has been portrayed in Moravian history and scholarship, and outline a new biographical project that will present her agency and leadership in a new light.

For more information, call 610-866-3255.

February 8, 2017

COVER STORY

Souper Bowl VII – The People’s Choice

People’s Choice winner Michael Dontas of Bethlehem holds up the Souper Bowl Champion Spoon. The award was presented as the finale of the Souper Bowl at the ArtsQuest Steelstacks after the results of the special award selected by the eighth annual event’s attendees. Dontas is a co-owner of the Copperhead Grille in Allentown. The winning soup, “Vietnamese Pho” beef, was made by chef Phuong Nguyen of Allentown. The coveted People’s Choice spoon is customarily hung in the award winning restaurant.

By Tim Gilman

POLITICS

Donchez seeks second term

Bethlehem Mayor Robert J. Donchez has announced that he will be a candidate for re-election in the May 15 primary. In announcing his candidacy for re-election, Donchez said he seeks to continue his lifetime commitment to Bethlehem and will focus on fiscal responsibility, public safety, economic development, strong neighborhoods, openness in government, improving the business districts and recreational facilities and increasing the street overlay programs.

CLASSROOM

Cable show spotlights good work

Every household in Bethlehem will now be able to get a unique look inside Bethlehem Area School District since the district began its own TV program on RCN, “BASD District Insider.” The program began airing Feb. 2 on Thursday and Sunday evenings at 6 p.m. on channel 4. “Not everyone accesses social media, but just about all of our constituents have cable TV,” Superintendent Dr. Joseph Roy said. “This is another avenue for us to share the good work going on in the district.” Photo: Freedom senior Lucy Moeller hosts this month’s episode of District Insider.

By Liz Kemmerer

THE CHEMO BAG

Bringing comfort to cancer patients

It has been said that the first day a patient goes for chemotherapy is the scariest day of her life. As a way to make the experience less scary, and to bring some comfort to those undergoing the treatment for the first time, a group of volunteers in the Lehigh Valley distributes hundreds of comfort bags each year at local chemo infusion centers. Photo: More than 700 of these comfort bags were handed out in 2016 to patients starting chemotherapy. They contain everything from hats and lap blankets to mints and large print crossword puzzles.

By Carole Gorney

PEOPLE

Bethlehem barber for the Falcon

In an area where Eagles, Giants and Steelers fans rule the roost, Bethlehem barber Denny Roebuck, an Atlanta Falcons fan since 1966, is no doubt in the minority. At age 9, Roebuck attended an EaglesFalcons game in Philadelphia with family members who were Eagles fans. He says, “Being the person that I am, I cheered for the Falcons.” It was their inaugural season in the NFL. Photo: His barbershop walls decorated with Atlanta Falcon throws behind him, West Broad Street barber Denny Roebuck wears his favorite team’s jersey as he gives Bethlehem resident Noel Cornish a haircut. Roebuck predicted a Falcon victory, 34 to 28, saying, “I love the position they’re in.”

By Dana Grubb

PEOPLE

Bethlehem man named RSVP ‘Volunteer of the Year’

Bethlehem resident and native Ron Fluck is a volunteer at Sharecare Faith in Action, which is based in Bethlehem. He logs over 10,000 miles annually, making nearly 1,000 transports driving clients to doctors’ appointments, banks, drugstores, grocery shopping and an occasional fall foliage or Christmas decorations tour. Fluck was nominated by Sharecare Faith in Action executive director Lynn Heiney and received his award at the national conference in Kansas City. He has been volunteering at Sharecare for six years and encourages others to volunteer by calling Sharecare at 610-867-2127.

By Diane Schrameyer and Dana Grubb

COMMUNITY

Mounted unit’s new home takes shape

Construction on the new Bethlehem Mounted Police barn is progressing, with completion expected by late March or early April, according to Friends of the Bethlehem Mounted Police vice president Greg Solderitch. Photo: Framing of the new home for the Bethlehem Mounted Patrol is under way as carpenters from project general contractor B & D Builders construct the pole barn. B & D Builders is located in Paradise and specializes in barns, riding arenas and agricultural buildings.

By Dana Grubb

BETHLEHEM HISTORY

Calypso ES celebrates 100^th

Calypso ES is celebrating the 100th anniversary of serving as a neighborhood school on Calypso Avenue for the entire school year. While some Lehigh Valley school districts, such as Saucon Valley and Southern Lehigh, chose a campus setting for their schools, where the students are bused into one central location, Calypso ES parents have always preferred that their children walk to their neighborhood school. Several Calypso students represent the third generation of their families to attend school on Calypso Avenue. Calypso Principal Kathleen Bast described the research efforts into the school’s past.

By Karen M. Samuels

BETHLEHEM SPORTS

Eagles stun Hawks in district duals

They say you can’t win them all and that finally became true for Bethlehem Catholic on Saturday evening at Freedom High School. Nazareth reversed a 20-point loss from the East Penn Conference championship and rode it to a 33-24 victory in the District 11 3A duals final, snapping the Hawks run of six straight District 11 titles (2A and 3A combined) and showing the most signs of mortality the program has had in a long time. Sometimes, when success is as prevalent and common as the Hawks (14-4) have enjoyed over the last six years, it can become stale.

By Peter Car

LV FOCUS

Our readers share their dog and cat stories

In a previous “Bud’s View” column, I wrote about the emotional stress my wife Bev and I faced each time one of our pets died. I discussed the heartbreak we experienced when we lost our dogs, Bear and Blue, and our cat, Charcole (Aug. 31, 2016 “The Pets That Rescue Us” column.) The following stories were sent in by Lehigh Valley Press readers of “Bud’s View.” This is the first of several columns based on abridged versions of their stories.

By Bud Cole

OTHER STORIES

State: School board assoc. report identifies tax elimination problems

Northampton County: Gaming Board patient about local fees

Bethlehem Township: Commissioners unable to find words for library referendum

Fountain Hill: Council sets 2017 pool prices

Hellertown: Medical marijuana ordinance planned

Valley: LV Greenways mini-grant applications due March 3\

Valley: Muslim Association hosts open house

Letter: ‘We will not forget Toomey’s betrayal’

Another View: Underage gamblers frustrate casinos

School: Charter Arts presents “Pride and Prejudice’

School: BAVTS students inducted into National Honor Society

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February 15, 2017

COVER STORY
Wanted: New stove

Trinity Episcopal Church of Bethlehem has operated its soup kitchen for 35 years and today provides a nutritious hot lunches for 150 people Monday through Friday. Unfortunately, the heavily used 25-year-old stove and ovens are in dire need of replacement, and the Trinity Soup Kitchen has undertaken a campaign to raise the $16,000 necessary to replace them with a modern Vulcan stove and several convection ovens. That effort has been bolstered by an anonymous matching pledge of $8,000.

By Dana Grubb

COMMUNITY

LV Winter Classic’s uncertain future

Sixteen hockey teams from Pennsylvania and New Jersey braved some flurries and brisk 30 degree temperatures to converge at the Bethlehem Municipal Ice Rink on Illick’s Mill Road Jan. 28 for the fourth annual Lehigh Valley Winter Classic. The Winter Classic is a hockey tournament, played outside in the elements, which helps support the Lehigh Valley Polar Bears, a local, special hockey team, part of the American Special Hockey Association. The event has doubled in size the last two years, growing from eight teams to 16 teams. All money raised from the tournament goes directly to the Polar Bears, a team of 25 children with varying degrees of disabilities. But organizer Adam Bortz and others are concerned for the future of the classic, due to a possible restructuring of the building department in the city of Bethlehem which would move two workers at the rink away from the ice. Photo: Using the Zamboni, parks maintenance workers Mike McGraw and Adam Wagner drew high marks from event organizers for their efforts to keep the ice surface perfect during the tournament and throughout the ice skating season at the Bethlehem Municipal Ice Rink. McGraw has been doing the job for seven years and Wagner for four years. Winter Classic organizer Adam Bortz called it “the most preferred ice in the Lehigh Valley.”

By Tom Broas

PEOPLE

Minsi Trails Court of Honor

Ten Scouters were honored with Silver Beaver Awards at a Minsi Trails Council court of honor Jan. 27. Recognized for distinguished service were (back row from left) Scott Best of Coplay, Jim Klunk of Kutztown, Jim Korcienski Sr. of Saylorsburg, Rev. Gary Marsh of Bethlehem, and William Schwab of Lehighton. Also honored were (front row from left) Bill Coles of Emmaus, Michael Caffrey of Bethlehem, Charlie Chase of Bethlehem, Francis Oquendo of East Stroudsburg, and Dawn Phillips of Effort.

By Ed Courrier

BUSINESS

LV Wedding Expo 2017

Mother Nature contributed a good dusting of white to complement the sparkling iced cakes and glittering gowns featured in the Bridal Expo hosted at Lehigh University’s Rauch Field House Jan. 7 and 8. Wesley Jenks, of Jenks Productions, said it’s the company’s 15th year coordinating and running the event. “I like the people in the Lehigh Valley,” he said. “Everyone is friendly and easy to work with.” Photo: Crowds browse a variety of vendors at the Bridal Expo, held at Rauch Business Center.

By Joanna Ireland

FAMILY

A typical tropic night at the library

A Hawaiian Beach Party with storytelling, dancing, crafts and games was held in mid- January at the Bethlehem Area Public Library on Church Street. About 25 children attended the family-friendly tropical event in the library’s new youth section on the second floor. The library’s Teenage Advisory Board assists with many of the family-friendly events. The free activities are listed on the library’s website, www.bapl.org, or call 610-867-3761, ext. 499. The Southside branch at 400 Webster St. also features free events for children – more info at BAPL website and 610-867-7852. Photo: Miles Kwiatek of the Lehigh Valley Academy Charter School reads “Pig Boy,” an illustrated tropical beach book. “I love reading to the kids and volunteering here at the library. It’s a great way to take part in public service,” said the Bethlehem resident and president of the Teenage Advisory Board which helps with the Bethlehem Public Library community services program.

By Tim Gilman

BETHLEHEM SPORTS

Eagles top BC in epic state wrestling final

Were you entertained? Saturday’s PIAA 3A state wrestling championship between Bethlehem Catholic and Nazareth came down to the final bout, where the winner took all and Zac Kiefer instantly became a Nazareth legend, following his 2-1 victory over Tavion Banks in the 170-pound finale to give the Blue Eagles a 30-29 criteria victory over Bethlehem Catholic.

By Peter Car

LV FOCUS

Blue returns and a poem for a departed pet

Editor’s note: This is the second of three columns based on abridged versions of readers’ stories about their pets in response to a “Bud’s View” column about the emotional stresses individuals and families face when a pet dies. That column, “The Pets That Rescue Us,” is available on The Focus page of The Press web site, Aug. 31, 2016.

By Bud Cole

OTHER STORIES

Valley: Feeling fluish? You’re not alone

Valley: Good hygiene can help ward off flu, other bugs

Valley: Know the facts of cold and flu

Valley: Fire marshal offers winter storm tips

Bethlehem: Council targets bamboo

Bethlehem: First library booksale a good one

Bethlehem: HCC approves Martin Furniture sign move

Bethlehem: HARB approves awnings for 2 buildings

Northampton County: Gracedale profit less than first stated

Bethlehem Township: Big Box distribution site considered

Fountain Hill: Fire department officers sworn in

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February 22, 2017

COVER STORY

WGPA celebrates 70 years on the air

The owner of the Bethlehem Globe-Times newspaper, Rolland J. Adams, founded WGPA in 1947. He owned the Globe Times from 1933 until he retired in 1970. As a gift to the city of Bethlehem, the Globe Times erected a star on South Mountain for the Christmas season of 1938. Adams had difficulty finding local radio coverage to publicize the star. That convinced him that Bethlehem needed its own radio station. Adams made several visits to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in Washington, D.C., to request a radio broadcast license. When he finally secured it in 1945, it was only the third license to be granted in the Lehigh Valley. Photo: The ‘Bearman’ dropped by to congratulate WGPA owner Ronald Crumbliss on Sunny 1100’s 70th anniversary. At WZZO for many years, Bearman related how he had started his radio career 45 years ago at WGPA.

By Karen Samuels and Dana Grubb

FOUNTAIN HILL

Council Oks public works facility plan

For five years architect Mike Mayrosh has toiled over designs as residents waited, shaking their heads at dripping ceilings, equipment and extension cords lying about, and great unsecured fuel tanks rusting amid their Pool Street homes. But Feb. 15 it came to pass: Council voted to advertise for the construction of a new public works facility.

By Nate Jastrzemski

RESTAURANT WEEK

‘Great and wonderful’

According to Apollo Grill general manager Rachel Griffith, Historic Bethlehem’s Winter Restaurant Week 2017 was “great and wonderful. We’ve offered some creative menus,” said Griffith, who said the weather had cooperated, unlike in 2016 when a 32-inch snowstorm forced restaurants to extend the promotion. Apollo Grill was one of 12 historic district restaurants participating from Jan. 29 to Feb. 4, each offering a variety of specials at fixed prices to encourage regular diners and those new to the downtown dining scene to enjoy a variety of culinary experiences. Restaurant Week is a Downtown Bethlehem Association promotion. Photo: It’s a Restaurant Week luncheon with young Luca DeAngelis as the center of attention. Donna Leon and Brittany DeAngelis of Bethlehem said they enjoy Restaurant Week options and Luca apparently enjoys attention from server Michele Valence, a 12-year employee at the Apollo Grill.

By Dana Grubb

BUSINESS

Fitness team is here to build you up

In-home personal training company GYMGUYZ is lifting its national franchise and dropping a confidence campaign right in the Lehigh Valley. With GYMGUYZ now in the valley for a year, Aaron Behrens, Lehigh Valley franchise owner, and his trainers are excited to expand their business and start working with children and parents. Photo: GYMGUYZ Lehigh Valley’s Joe Hofstetter and Aaron Behrens team up for the Confidence Campaign. The two aim to strengthen the youth one child at a time.

By Selena Cintron

CLASSROOM

LHS Robotics Team qualified for national competition

While some students spend hours after school mastering a sport or an art, the nine students on the 2016 Robotics Team at Liberty HS spend their time designing, building and programming award-winning mechanical robots. The LHS Robotics Team recently won the Parkland Starstruck HS Division Qualifier, a tournament at Springhouse MS against 36 other high schools Jan. 7 sponsored by VEX Robotics. The win earned them a spot at VEX’s national competition April 6-8 in Council Bluffs, Iowa, and they are working to raise the $6,000 needed to get them to the competition. Photo: Felix Quintana and Raj Kundu practice driving the robot at their team meeting after school.

By Liz Kemmerer

BETHLEHEM SPORTS

Becahi girls win EPC title

Before winning the East Penn Conference Girls’ Basketball Championship last Friday, Bethlehem Catholic coach Jose Medina told his Hawks that last year’s silver medal was hanging in his car, a medal they could not get again. After a 45-40 victory over Easton at Freedom High School, Medina presented his team with medals of a different color. Gold.

By Katie McDonald

LV FOCUS

King of Instruments

“In my eyes and ears, the organ will forever be the King of Instruments.”

- Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

Allen Organ is the official organ of the Allentown Symphony and we have enjoyed a wonderful partnership for many years. Many people in the Lehigh Valley are not aware that Allen Organ, the largest digital organ company in the world, is located right here in Macungie, Pennsylvania. Allen Organ was on the front end of technology when in the 1960s the firm utilized binary-coding systems developed for NASA, and applied them to the sampling and replication of musical sounds.

By Diane Wittry

OTHER STORIES

Bethlehem: School board Oks preliminary budget

Bethlehem: School officials critical of proposed tax plan

South Bethlehem: Lehigh plans new residence hall

Fountain Hill: Nancy Run firefighters assist at fire scene

Lehigh County: Grant will assist in heroin, opioid fight

Lehigh County: County making new parks, rec. plan

Northampton County: County, city plan 911 consolidation

Valley: Area school official voice concerns about tax proposal

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Center for Animal Health and Welfare

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March 1, 2017

COVER STORY

‘We dance fort the kids’

During the Mini-THON Feb. 18, the recently renovated Notre Dame HS gymnasium rocked with music for the 350 dancers and the bleachers were filled with their families and patrons of the annual fundraiser event. Cheryl Fenton, coordinator of the Notre Dame Mini-THON and the school’s advancement director, led the celebration from the gymnasium stage and was dressed for the dance in a green tutu. Photo: A roar erupted from the packed gymnasium when the total of $74,320 raised was revealed by Mini-THON participants hoding up individual placards with the long-awaited numerals. Next year will be the 10th anniversary of the Notre Dame Mini-THON.

By Tim Gilman

PEOPLE

Miss Amazing redefines beauty

There are many different kinds of beauty pageants, but only one very special Pennsylvania Miss Amazing contest, where this year 20 girls and women with disabilities vied for recognition and prizes in the second annual event at the Lehigh Valley Charter HS for the Arts in South Bethlehem. The contestants, ranging in age from 6 to 37 years old, came from throughout the state. Photo: The 2016 Miss Amazing Junior Teen Kassie Mundhenk gets some hair-styling help from her mother, Jenette Mundhenk. Mom says her daughter “has gained so much confidence since participating in last year’s pageant.” Kassie helped give out awards at the 2017 pageant.

By Carole Gorney

COMMUNITY

NAACP marks 72^ndFreedom Fund banquet

Bethlehem’s own NAACP, which was founded in 1945, held its 72nd annual Freedom Fund banquet in order to celebrate with and commenced its community partners. High-spirited President Esther Lee, on behalf of the chapter, started the banquet with sharing how happy she is to have such tremendous supporters. “Our issue is civil rights and making our representatives responsible for just that. They are not doing all that they can. I am glad our mayor is here as he is very good about coming through and showing his support,” Lee said. Photo: The room was full of a multitude of churches, the Bethlehem police force, non-profit organizations, Representative Steve Samuelson, Mayor Robert Donchez, school officials from both Liberty and Freedom high schools, keynote speaker Senator Vanessa Brown, and life-long supporters.

By Selena Cintron

OPINION

Ed’s World

Graphic commentary by award-winning artist Ed Courrier

CLASSROOM

Collecting for Paul’s House

Students in preschool through eighth grade at Notre Dame School of Bethlehem recently held a Thankful Thursday collection to benefit the Major Paul Syverson Sanctuary for Veterans, or Paul’s House. Paul’s House, also known as VALOR Clinic, is a transition home in Brodheadsville that aids homeless veterans with a mentor, life skills classes, information about the VA, and peer to peer groups of the Veterans Unstoppable program, all while providing them with a warm place to call home. Photo: Notre Dame School of Bethlehem students Dalton and Olivia Wickel help pack the donated items into the car for delivery.

By Amy Miller

BETHLEHEM SPORTS

Hawks win District team title

Mikey Labriola became a four-time District 11 champion Saturday night at Liberty’s Memorial Gymnasium, but it wasn’t the joyous moment you would expect. When you’ve won a district title in every season you’ve competed, perhaps the feat becomes expected, if not, monotonous.

By Peter Car

LV FOCUS

Diverse views, diverse artists

Three separate exhibitions are on view in Baker Center for the Arts, Muhlenberg College, Allentown. These are diverse views and diverse artists, each with a distinct perspective. AM DeBrincat’s “Speculative Fiction” is on display in the Galleria Lobby. Patricia Satterlee’s “Already Gone” is also in the Galleria. George Afedzi Hughes’ “Urban Allusions” is in Martin Art Gallery. In “Speculative Fiction,” continuing through March 27, DeBrincat assembles mixed media paintings with images taken from analog and digital archives and blends them together.

By Ed Courrier

OTHER STORIES

Bethlehem: ‘Answers lie outside city hall’

Bethlehem Area SD: ‘Reading by 3^rdGrade’ yields results

Bethlehem Township: Peers, public irked at commissioner’s comments

Bethlehem Township: Attorneys urge board member’s disqualification

Lehigh County: Muller endorses Armstrong for county executive

Opinion: Statement on congressional letter regarding JCC threats

Valley: Deputy DA warns students about sexting

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March 8, 2017

COVER STORY

‘Caring for women his goal’

Russell K. Laros Jr. joined his father’s already long-running charitable foundation in 1965, and over more than 50 years, he served as trustee, chair and board member while pursuing an equally storied career in obstetric medicine.Born here at St. Luke’s Hospital in 1936, Laros was a pioneer of high-risk obstetrics – medicine involving childbirth and women giving birth – and earned local awards for his community support and philanthropy. But more than that, say people close to him for many years, was that his drive was tempered by his engagement. He didn’t only lead; he listened, and he wanted to see things and talk with people firsthand.

Photo: R.K. Laros and his longtime friend and former Mayor Gordon Mowrer at their last meeting in November 2014. Laros passed away Feb. 17, 2017, in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii.

By Nate Jastrzemski

SOUTH BETHLEHEM

For sale: Sands Casino

Sands Bethlehem Casino employees received a company email last week indicating the complex may be sold. The Morning Call reported shortly thereafter that Las Vegas Sands Corporation had gotten an offer from competitor MGM Resorts International, but officials insist a sale, if it happens, will not take place immediately. The complex includes the Sands Bethlehem Casino flanked on the west by The Outlets at Sands Bethlehem, Sands Hotel and Sands Bethlehem Event Center and on the east by the casino parking garage. According to The Morning Call, the complex employs about 2,500 people, and a recently-announced $90 million expansion would continue under new ownership.

By Nate Jastrzemski/Dana Grubb

FOR THE KIDS

Bethlehem residents dance for a cure at Penn State’s THON

Forty-six hours of standing with no sleep, sitting, or stopping. Starting Friday, Feb. 17 at 6 p.m. and going until Sunday at 4 p.m., an amazing group of 708 Penn State students took to the Bryce Jordan Center for THON, and completed this difficult task. THON is the biggest student-run philanthropy in the world, organized by Penn State students to help find a cure for pediatric cancer. In addition to the 708, thousands of students work with countless organizations to collect donations and plan the large event each year. Out of those 708 students or “Dancers,” three of them come from Bethlehem: Kelly Winegar, Cody Meckes and Nicholas Karabin, graduates of three different Bethlehem high schools.

By Alli Poczak

VALLEY
Lucky’s great adventure ends well

Everyone loves a little adventure now and then, especially when you are a 3-1/2-year-old black and tan tabby named Lucky from Lower Macungie Township. Oh, and did I mention he is blind? On March 1, Lucky began his adventure around 1:15 a.m., somehow living the life of an escape artist and leaving the comforts of his home in the Ancient Oaks West development. A flier was placed on social media sites and sent to various news outlets asking for help in locating the escapee March 2.

By Deb Galbraith

LEHIGH VALLEY

‘Like a big family’

Lehigh Valley families dealing with pediatric cancer were shown some lovin’ by the folks at Warner Art Glass Feb 11-12 in Whitehall Township. Children who are battling cancer and their siblings assembled glass Valentine’s Day mosaics and created paperweights from molten glass in the center’s “Hot Room.” This is the second year that business owner Charles Warner has offered to host this event for the Pediatric Cancer Foundation of the Lehigh Valley (PCFLV) at his combination showroom and activity center. Lisa Kappes of PCFLV said, “It started last Valentine’s Day and right after we were finished with it, the owner, Charles Warner, was already excited to plan the next one … so we just kept it as a Valentine’s Day theme.” Photo: “Hot Shot” manager Dan Polk teaches Mackenzie Cleffi and her dad, Mike, how to add bits of color to molten glass in the “Hot Room.” The glass had been heated in a furnace at 2150 degrees.

By Ed Courrier

ENTERTAINMENT

Dairy Store, Aramark take Cookie Crunch prizes

With 15 restaurants, 17 delicious dishes and more than 300 guests in attendance, the 3rd annual Girl Scout Cookie Crunch was a fabulous foodie experience from start to finish. The dynamic culinary event held at the ArtsQuest Center’s Musikfest Café in Bethlehem on Feb. 26 also featured 10-year-old chef and Girl Scout Lucy Chelton of Sellersville, who celebrated her recent win on “Chopped Jr.” by signing autographs for the crowd.Selected by popular vote, Bethlehem Dairy Store’s S’mores & Cream ice cream was named “Best Sweet Dish” and the Aramark culinary team at SteelStacks was awarded both “Best Savory Dish” and “Kids’ Choice Award” for its Bacon Macaroni and Cheese topped with Girl Scout Shortbreads. Winners received glass cookie jars crafted by the Banana Factory Glass Studio. Photo: Chef Michael Hoffman, Kids Choice and Savory Award winner, of Aramark serving his bacon macaroni and cheese with shortbread cookies.

By Mark Demko

MATHCOUNTS

Nitschmann student, team take honors

The Lehigh Valley MATHCOUNTS® regional competition was held at Southern Lehigh HS, Center Valley, Feb. 11. The event included 268 middle school students from 28 schools from across the region. This is the 33rd year for the program, which is sponsored by the Lehigh Valley Chapter of the PA Society of Professional Engineers. The event’s goal is to promote a mathematical interest in middle school students. Photo: Nitschamann’s team - (front) Sruti Tekumalla, Sean McGuire, Cole Frank, Brandyn D’Amico, Tyler Markovich, Ritvik Singh, Chris Giannaras; (back) Seth Coleman, Chris Secula, Blake George, Daniel Li, Miles Lunger, Jack Hansen, Max Brichta and coach Nadine Novatnak.

By Carla Jones

BETHLEHEM SPORTS

Clean sweep: Becahi boys, girls take District titles

Coming into the District 11 4A boys championship game, the two teams involved have had a long dry spell of district gold. It had been since 2002 that Bethlehem Catholic last won districts, and even longer for their opponent, Jim Thorpe, which last won gold in 1972. But something had to give. The Olympians fan base made the long trek to Easton Area Middle School in high volume and made their voices heard in support of their team. But it was the Golden Hawks that quickly quieted the crowd, and hoisted the trophy for the first time in 15 years, beating Jim Thorpe 64-31 last Friday night.

By Cj Hemerly

It seems that almost every year, Bethlehem Catholic and Central Catholic are battling for the District 11 title. It happened once again this year. After missing out on district gold last year, the Golden Hawks were back on top of District 11 in the new 4A classification, defeating the Vikettes 43-27 last Saturday afternoon at Easton Area Middle School.

By CJ Hemerly

LV FOCUS

Spring musical previews

Emmaus – ‘Miss Siagon’

“Miss Saigon” hovers over the stage at Emmaus High School in the school edition produced and directed by Jill Kuebler. The musical, by Claude-Michel Schönberg and Alain Boublil, with lyrics by Boublil and Richard Maltby, tells a tragic tale of love and abandonment during the close of the Vietnam War. The plot is based on Giacomo Puccini’s opera, “Madame Butterfly.”

By Ed Courrier

Catasauqua – ‘Grease’

Catasauqua High School travels back to the bygone days of greasers and geeks with “Grease.”

Music and lyrics are by Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey with additional songs written by John Farrar. Show times are 7 p.m. March 17, 18 and 2 p.m. March 19 with a preview show March 16, auditorium, Catasauqua High School, 2500 W. Bullshead Road, Northampton.

By Ed Courrier

OTHER STORIES

South Bethlehem: A tale of two buildings

South Bethlehem: Better Buy Thrift Shop supports youth program

Northampton County: ‘What we di is not sexy,’ says Brown

Northampton County: Response to Brown’s speech mixed

Northampton County: Judge Koury sentences hit-run driver

Northampton County; DA says no to time clock

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March 29, 2017

ON THE COVER

Spring cleanup

Ron Lang takes advantage of Saturday’s mild weather to clean leftover snow off his driveway from the nearly 14 inches March 14. Lang, in a T-shirt and shorts, said the icy snow had piled up at the end of his driveway on Linden Street in northeast Bethlehem. "It’s good to be working outside on a warm day," Lang said. Saturday’s temperature peaked at 68 degrees, according to an AccuWeather report. Spring officially arrived March 20 and the winter season’s total snowfall has been less than 30 inches.

By Tim Gilman

BETHLEHEM

City officers promoted, sworn in

City administrators lauded four police officers and welcomed two new department members in remarks during a brief ceremony in the Rotunda Thursday. Mayor Bob Donchez and Chief Mark DiLuzio each stressed the importance and success of public safety to Bethlehem, often looked upon as one of the safest cities in the state, and thanked the officers for potentially placing themselves in harm’s way to protect their fellow citizens. Photo: Officer Christopher Ward receives his badge from his girlfriend, Stephanie Hopkins. Mayor Bob Donchez presided over the ceremony and swore the new officers in.

By Nate Jastrzemski

ST. PATRICK’S DAY

Best Legs marks 12^th year

The Best Legs in a Kilt contest was forced indoors due to the unusually cold temperatures March 11. Despite the weather, 11 contestants wore their kilts for the popular event in downtown Bethlehem as a prelude to the St. Patrick’s Parade of Shamrocks. Neville Gardner, owner of the adjoining McCarthy’s Red Stag Pub and Donegal Square, is the coordinator of the 12th annual contest. According to tradition, the first-place prize is a kilt, and this year’s winner was Blaise Polentes of Bethlehem. Photo: Aven Werner gets encouragement from his uncle, Jeff Rambo of Pottstown, before the Best Legs in a Kilt Contest March 11 at Donegal Square and McCarthy’s Red Stag Pub before Bethlehem’s Parade of Shamrocks. The young contestant, son of Erika Werner of Bethlehem, won an honorable mention award.

By Tim Gilman

BETHLEHEM HISTORY

As the crow flies

One evening in early February this year, while I was driving over the Hill-to-Hill Bridge with a right turn onto the Main Street ramp, a huge bare tree on the left appeared to be covered with huge black leaves. Not until I was past the tree was it apparent the leaves were actually crows. Why do crows roost in Bethlehem and what keeps them here at night?

By Ken Raniere

PEOPLE

‘Thank you for giving me my life back’

Mary Clancey, 71, of St. Clair, Schuylkill County, couldn’t speak two words without having trouble breathing. She was having trouble walking with blood clots in her legs combined with carrying 365 pounds on her 5 foot 1 1/2 inch frame. “Things started getting harder to do – harder to walk, harder to stand – and then one day in November 2016 I couldn’t get out of bed,” Clancey said. Her son, Ed, called an ambulance and had her taken to her local hospital, where they performed a CAT scan and determined a cyst in one of Clancey’s ovaries had grown into a 140-pound, stage one cancer tumor, equal to almost half her weight. She was immediately transferred to Lehigh Valley Health Network -Cedar Crest where she met Richard Boulay, M.D., LVHN’s chief of gynecologic oncology. Photo: Lehigh Valley Health Network’s Chief of Gynecologic Oncology Dr. Richard Boulay, Mary Clancey, Ed Clancey and LVHN’s Chief of Plastic Surgery Dr. Randolph Wojcik at a news conference March 9.

By Deb Galbraith

CLASSROOM

‘There aren’t enough words’

Bethlehem Catholic HS students and staff welcomed their heroes, family members who have served in the military, at their sixth annual veterans appreciation breakfast Feb. 7. Over 60 students, family and veterans enjoyed a light breakfast consisting of coffee, juice, fresh fruit and pastries while veterans spoke of their service with their student hosts in the cafeteria. Photo: There is no question who Sydney Yarsevich’s favorite veteran is. Her grandfather, Brian Yarsevich, served in the United States Coast Guard as a Second Class Boatswain’s Mate.

By Dana Grubb

OPINION/GUEST VIEW

Area Meals on Wheels directors respond to proposed budget cuts

The first budget blueprint sent to Congress by the president’s administration has caused a great deal of concern and confusion. Many media outlets, for instance, incorrectly reported initially that the government was defunding Meals on Wheels programs. We received a lot of unexpected attention as a result – and a lot of concern from the people we serve, our dedicated volunteers and the public at large. We need to separate fact from fiction so people understand the ramifications that proposed federal budget cuts could have.

By JoAnn Bergeron Nenow and Pamela Bechtel

Caroon by Ed Courrier

BETHLEHEM SPORTS

Becahi wins first girls hoops title

Bethlehem Catholic senior forward Tessa Zamolyi could do to talk, cry, smile, and breathe after the Hawks were crowned PIAA State Class 4A girls’ basketball champions after defeating Villa Maria 46-27 last Thursday at the Giant Center in Hershey. “Watching and playing for four years, I’m so thankful, and I’m so happy to share this experience with my team,” Zamolyi said. “I’ve been waiting so long, and I’ve wanted to play in this final.”

By Katie McDonald

LV FOCUS

High school musicals

By Ed Courrier

OTHER STORIES

Bethlehem: City keeps some 911 autonomy

Bethlehem: LERTA zone may expand

Bethlehem Township: Board paves way for medical marijuana

Lehigh County: DA announces staff change

Lehigh County: Commissioners support redistricting reform bill

Lehigh Valley: 10 face charges in drup operation

Lehigh Valley: New truck increases food access

Northampton County: Englesson nomination challenged

Northampton County: Gracedale rates ‘below average’

Opinion: What changes would bring more Sunshine to Pa?

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April 5, 2017

COVER STORY
Relationships, teamwork and community leadership

Fourteen elementary school children from Fountain Hill were special guests of the historic Hotel Bethlehem recently, and they literally got a first-hand view of the hotel from top to bottom. Starting on the eighth floor with a tour of the Presidential Suite, and making their way to the lower level where a speakeasy once flourished during Prohibition, the students spent the day learning about all the inner workings of the hotel. Photo: Executive Chef Michael Adams spends time in the kitchen with the students, explaining how food is prepared and how the staff work together. An award-winning chef, Adams is a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America. He returned to the Hotel Bethlehem as head chef in 2014.

By Carole Gorney

OMMUNITY

Becahi girls team honored at assembly

Bethlehem Catholic girls basketball team won the state championship in Hershey March 23, and were rewarded with accolades in a ceremony in the school auditorium last Wednesday. Above: Team members Hope Brown, Natalie Rhine, Neila Luma, Tessa Zamolyi and Morgan Orloski watch a highlight reel of their season.

By Nate Jastrzesmki

BUSINESS

Lit Coffee Roastery and Bakeshop

Co-owner Dan Taylor roasts the coffee beans they import from environmentally sustainable farms in this commercial roaster. The roasted beans are then ground at the front counter. In tribute to folk singer Woody Guthrie’s and Taylor’s business partner, Matt Hengeveld’s own connection to Bethlehem-based “Sing Out!” magazine, their special house blend is called “Bound for Glory.”

By Ed Courrier

POLITICS

Dent’s hastily organized town hall well attended

Despite less than a day’s notice, over 400 people braved a downpour and crammed into Hanover Township Community Center March 31 for a town hall with Congressman Charlie Dent (R-15th). The crowd was so huge for the hastily arranged meeting that parking had to be diverted to a nearby church. Photo: Congressman Charlie Dent’s 15th District includes all of Lehigh County, but only pieces of Northampton, Berks, Lebanon and Dauphin counties. Asked about the Trump travel ban, Dent said he thinks there is no real danger from the seven Muslim countries at which the ban was directed. “My concern is Europe,” he said.

By Bernie O‘Hare

SPRING MUSICALS

Bethlehem Catholic presents ‘Oklahoma’

Bethlehem Catholic Theatre presents the Richard Rogers and Oscar Hammerstein II collaboration “Oklahoma” as its spring musical. Set in early 20th century Oklahoma, the musical tells the story of a cowboy and a farm girl who fall in love. The over 50-member cast and stage crew is directed by Debbie Acampora, who doubles as choreographer. “Oklahoma” is produced by Diana Tice and Joseph Fink is music director. Performances continue April 7 and 8 at 7 p.m. Tickets are available at http://bit.ly/becatheater or by calling 610-866-0791. Photo: Cowboy Will Parker regales his friends about his experience in Kansas City during the number “Kansas City.”

By Dana Grubb

BETHLEHEM SPORTS

Spring sports previews

By Katie McDonald and Peter Car

LV FOCUS

Bud’s view: Some of the strongest pets survive

By Bud Cole

OTHER STORIES

Bethlehem: Frustrated tone at district budget workshop

Bethlehem: Board recognizes student achievements, awards

Bethlehem: Resident hear about Martin Tower asbestos removal

Bethlehem: HCC approve signage for established barbershop

Bethlehem: Benefit supports hospice canine care

Lehigh Valley: PPL reports problems with nightlight

Lehigh Valley: History Day project

Lehigh Valley: Experiencing another culture at Muslim Assoc. openhouse

South Bethlehem: Sands, parking and spring fundraisers

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April 12, 2017

COVER STORY

Women stand up for equal pay

In recognition of Equal Pay Day 2017, the YWCA of Bethlehem sponsored an “Un-Happy Hour” at Bethlehem’s Brew Works on April 7. As professional women and an occasional male counterpart stopped by to recognize the gender pay disparity and support efforts to eliminate it, Kristin Oakley, vice chair of the women’s economic empowerment committee, told listeners that white women earn 76 cents for each dollar earned by males, black women 63 cents, and Hispanic women 57 cents. Further complicating the economic issues for women, Oakley pointed out that 47 percent of women in college graduate into the workforce with at least $30,000 in student loan debt, needing six more years than their male counterparts to pay off the debt, thus incurring higher interest costs. This sets them back when it comes to investing in 401Ks, affects credit scores, and delays purchasing homes and financing cars. Essentially, said Oakley, this puts them behind males facing the same economic and life issues. Photo: A group of early arrivals gathers to show support for women’s pay equality.

By Dana Grubb

NORTHAMPTON COUNTY

Drug Court celebrates another graduate

Drug overdoses are the leading cause of injury death in the United States. Opioids, both prescription and illicit, are the driving force. Opioid overdoses have quadrupled since 1999. According to the Centers for Disease Control, Pennsylvania experienced a 20.4 percent increase in drug overdose deaths in 2015. But amid these dark clouds, there are rays of sunshine. State Rep. Dan McNeil and the HOPE program have organized numerous town halls to educate the public. In April 2015, Northampton County established a Drug Court to help people overcome their addictions. The court celebrated its third graduate last month with ice cream cake. The graduate’s name is Alysha. She’s a person who has struggled with heroin and who had been in and out of the system since 2010. Photo: Alysha completed an intense four-phase program under the supervision of Stephanie Greene-Wimmer and Judge Craig Dally.

By Bernie O’Hare

BETTER LATE THAN NEVER

Southside Valentine party

A Sweethearts’ Party touched the hearts of children and parents, filling an activity room at the Southside Branch of the Bethlehem Area Public Library. The event coincided with Valentine’s Day which happened to be on a Tuesday, one of the nights the library branch is open. Story-time, crafts, snacks and games kept the children busy during the special program. Tess Blum, the children’s librarian who handles youth services, organized the first-time Valentine’s Day celebration. The Bethlehem Area Public Library Southside branch at 400 Webster St. offers a variety of family-friendly activities. More info at 610-867-7852 and BAPL website. Photo: Tess Blum reads Valentine books to children during a Sweethearts’ Party at the Southside Branch of the Bethlehem Area Public Library. Blum, a Bethlehem resident, is the children’s librarian.

By Tim Gilman

COMMUNITY

Annual Bacchanalia remains a crowd pleaser

The air was buzzing with lively chatter while guests waited for the doors to open for the 14th annual Fountain Hill Bacchanalia. The event was held at the Comfort Suites in Bethlehem March 25. There were over 200 tickets sold between individual sales and business sponsors. Tickets were $40 and included a complimentary Bacchanalia wine glass, unlimited food and wine tasting and live entertainment by Doug Hawk and B.D. Lenz. The Bacchanalia, named for the ancient festivals held in honor of the Roman wine god Bacchus, is an opportunity to bring together the local community to raise funds for the Fountain Hill Playground and Recreation Improvement Fund. This year they will be donating $12,000 to the fund from Bacchanalia XIV. Photo: Michael and Jennifer DeLong of Allentown-based Seven Sins of Sugar are attracted to events for good causes.

By Tracy Rice

BUSINESS
New senior facility offers all-in-one services

Walking from wide, sterile hallways into the dayroom was like stepping out of the shade into the sun. The cavernous hall was not nearly filled with people, but there was a humming bustle as knots of elderly men and women ate and talked with each other and passing aides. Doris Day rang from a stereo at the front of the room and a scheduled group activity was about to commence. It was just another day at Senior LIFE’s new facility on High Point Boulevard. Senior LIFE, a statewide independent living program, recently moved from Westgate Drive to the industrial park to accommodate its expanding membership and provide improved facilities. Outreach sales trainer Niki Recker provided a tour; halls redolent with nature paintings, three dayrooms, a kitchen, laundry room, and exam rooms and a fully staffed clinic fill the building. Photo: Staff physician Dr. Peter Baddick catches up with Stephanie T. in one of three dayrooms.

B Nate Jastrzemski

BETHLEHEM SPORTS

Start of busy baseball month begins

It may be a slow start to the baseball season for all teams across the Lehigh Valley, but things will heat up this week when the schedule looks to kick into high gear before the Easter weekend hits. With most teams having played three games heading into this week, the dismal March has pushed the schedule back for most teams, giving teams loaded schedules the rest of the month of April. Freedom (3-0) will see the uptick this week with three games in three days, starting on Tuesday with Easton, Wilson and Whitehall and capping the week off on Saturday against Allen.

By Peter Car

LV FOCUS

The conversation that matters

Ellen Goodman, Pulitzer-Prize-winning columnist and founder-director of The Conversation Project, will speak on “The Most Important Conversation America Isn’t Having” at the seventh annual Dr. and Mrs. Max Littner Memorial Lecture Series for Bereavement, 7:30 p.m. April 19, Central Moravian Church, Main and Church streets, Bethlehem. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. The lecture is also sponsored by St. Luke’s University Health Network. A career journalist, Goodman worked for Newsweek magazine, the Detroit Free Press, and The Boston Globe. While at the Globe, she began writing her column on social issues that affected American life, and in 1976 it was syndicated, eventually being carried by 450 newspapers. In 1980, a portfolio of her columns received the Pulitzer Prize for commentary.

By Carole Gorney

OTHER STORIES

Bethlehem: Digital gaming teaches critical math skills

Bethlehem: Five join Museum & Sites board

Bethlehem Township: Commissioners approve $1.8M for center’s repairs

Fountain Hill: Council hears resident concerns

Hanover Township: Township warned and The Green Menace

Northampton County: Egg hunt kicks off holiday period

State: Groups pushing for fair political districts in Pa.

Lehigh Valley: Local Fresh Air committee attends NYC conference

Saucon Valley: Red Out raises $1,300 for Heart Assoc.

Nitchmann: Students contribute to district THON

BAVTS: Students participate in culinary event

Chesterbrook Academy: ‘Souper Bowl’ benefits others

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April 19, 2017

COVER STORY
Hyacinths mark Moravian Easter dawn service

The Moravian Easter dawn service, which dates back to the city’s founding by the Moravians, was held Sunday at 6 a.m. in Central Moravian Church. According to tradition, the Easter worshipers walked to nearby God’s Acre Cemetery

for an outdoor continuation of the Easter celebration. God’s Acre consists of flat grave markers of the early Moravian Community members in Bethlehem.

By Tim Gilman

PEOPLE

Cancer warrior gives back to community

Newhard in the “Ray of Sunshine” room in the Pediatric Cancer Foundation of the Lehigh Valley (PCFLV) offices at the Banana Factory. Recently diagnosed with his fourth relapse, Newhard, a 12-year-old cancer warrior, created 75 Easter bags from donations he collected. The plucky New Tripoli resident distributed them to other pediatric cancer warriors and their siblings at the April 12 event. “A lot of people did a lot for me and I want to give back to the community,” said Newhard. He was also grateful for the help he received from family and friends in putting together the gift baskets. Luchansky and Kresge, from Coplay, lost their four and-one-half-year-old sister Ella Luchansky to neuroblastoma three years ago.

By Ed Courrier

COMMUNITY

Eggstravanza

The April 15 Eggstravaganza at College Hill Moravian Church in Bethlehem attracted about 200 children and their families to a variety of special events. The afternoon activities for 3-9 year-olds included arts and crafts, snacks, story-time and a visit by the Easter Bunny. The finale took the children outdoors for the Easter egg hunts, in three age groups, which featured 1,700 candy-filled eggs. The special Easter event for younger children is coordinated by Rev. David C. Meyer and a team of volunteers which include his son, Leo, as the Easter Bunny. Above: The Egg hunt scramble is the finale of the Eggstravaganza on Easter Saturday at College Hill Moravian Church in Bethlehem.

By Tim Gilman

POLITICS

Tax Day rally in Bethlehem

With Tax Day approaching on April 18 this year, Americans in cities across the nation participated in a Tax March April 15 to demand that President Donald Trump release his most recent tax returns. Though no president is required to release his tax income returns, every major party nominee since the 1970s has done so. In Bethlehem, around 200 people gathered in Payrow Plaza next to Bethlehem City Hall to have their voices heard. The local rally was sponsored by the Bethlehem City Democratic Committee. “The American people deserve to know what corporations, banks, and foreign investors Donald Trump is beholden to,” said Clyde Thomas, chairman of the committee. Photo: Steve and Barbara Diamond of Bethlehem came to the demonstration in eye-catching, patriotic garb.

By Dorothy and Dennis Glew

SPRING MUSICALS

Freedom presents ‘Peter Pan’

“Peter Pan,” a lively musical, was performed at Freedom HS from April 5 through 9. A cast of 42 students worked together to present the popular play, featuring characters Peter Pan, Captain Hook and Wendy. Director Jennifer Wescoe created a fast-moving production with imaginative sets, colorful costumes and remarkable student performances. She was assisted by music director Nancy Shumaker, choreographer Jerri Brown and pit conductor Michael Moran, with mostly student musicians. Peter Pan originated as J.M. Barrie’s 1904 play, and 50 years later, the Broadway musical production won three Tony Awards. Broadway revivals in 1979 and 1990 also received Tony nominations. A remarkable feature of the Freedom “Peter Pan” production are the flying effects provided by ZFX Inc. which outdid Tinkerbell’s fairy dust, used by Peter Pan. Photo: Flying to Neverland with Peter Pan leading the way in a star-filled sky are the Darling family children Wendy (Grace Taylor), Michael (Aaron Rivas) with his teddy bear and John (Joshua Konschnik) from their home in London.

By Tim Gilman

CLASSROOM

Cops n Kids reaches Lincoln

Cops ‘n’ Kids Children’s Literacy Program completed yet another fantastic event of giving, this time for the children of Lincoln ES. Students packed the auditorium on the morning of March 31, anticipating a day filled with reading and fun. During the assembly, students learned how the Liberty HS National Honor Society raised over $800 to be used to purchase brand new books for each student at Lincoln. They additionally heard from speakers including Lincoln Principal Benita Draper, and Cops ‘n’ Kids President Beverly Bradley. The women encouraged the students to keep reading, learning and dreaming, so they can grow up to reach their goals. Bradley led a student pledge, telling students, “as long as you’re dreaming, you’re moving forward.” Photo: Lincoln elementary students listen to Liberty HS National Honor Society volunteers share their hometown, favorite book and biggest dream. Photo: Cops ‘n’ Kids President Beverley Bradley leads the children in a pledge to follow their dreams and to keep reading.

By Alli Poszak

BETHLEHEM TOWNSHIP

Traditions, Green Pond site arguments hear

Developer Traditions of America (TOA) wants to build an active senior community at Green Pond Country Club. What makes this development controversial is its location. It’s adjacent to environmentally sensitive wetlands, in the middle of an Audubon-designated “Important Bird Area” called Green Pond Marsh. Because nearly every Bethlehem Township commissioner has publicly expressed an opinion either for or against the proposal, the board decided to appoint David Brooman, a Norristown-based attorney, as an independent hearing officer to decide whether to grant or deny tentative plan approval. He has conducted several hearings with technical testimony offered by both Traditions of America and “Save Green Pond.” But the April 11 hearing was different. It was a last opportunity for the people to speak. They did. He heard from 29 of the 80 people who packed into the municipal building on an unusually warm April night.

By Bernie O’Hare

BETHLEHEM SPORTS

‘Canes, Pares off to hot starts

It appears to be a two horse race in the East Penn Conference’s Steel Division, as Liberty (7-1, 4-0) and Freedom (7-0, 4-0) headed into this week in poll position atop the division. With a full slate of games this week, both teams could enter their Saturday showdown (1 p.m. at Liberty) with more at stake than their rivalry.

By Peter Car

LV FOCUS

Woodland plants bloom quickly

Spring arrived March 20, but some days I wonder if it is really here. We’ve had temperatures vary from the high-30s to some days in the mid-80s. If it weren’t for seeing harbingers of the season such as birds gathering building materials for nests, trees pushing out their leaf buds, ephemeral wildflowers appearing among the old leaves of fall, and male spring peepers calling for mates, I at times would question whether s

By Bud Cole

OTHER STORIES

Bethlehem: Council approves 1^st LERTA expansion reading

Bethlehem: AAUW book sale opens April 20

Lehigh Valley: Female Civil Rights leaders to be honored April 28

Northampton: Cusik strikes out again on car fees

South Bethlehem: Book sale report

Lehigh County: $5 car registration fee considered

Lehigh Valley: Grants available for rural community fire equipment

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April 26, 2017

COVER STORY

‘We all have the same concerns’

When I recently asked Bethlehem Police Chief Mark DiLuzio what he would wish for given unlimited resources; he said, “World peace.” The line from the film “Miss Congeniality” was delivered with his signature lilt, a deadpan that somehow conveys an expectation of laughter. DiLuzio is known for throwing groan-inducing remarks into interviews, and that day was no different. We did laugh, admitting we’d both watched the movie recently, but we spent the better part of an hour discussing very real matters for his department; successes and challenges and what he feels will make Bethlehem a safer, closer community. Photo: Police Chief Mark DiLuzio has more than 25 years with the department and is dedicated first and foremost to community policing, which he says makes for a stronger, safer city.

By Nate Jastrzemski

SPRING MUSICALS

LV Charter Arts HS presents ‘Hair’

The Lehigh Valley Charter HS for the Arts will present “Hair” at four evening performances from today through Saturday at 7 p.m., and a matinee performance at 2 p.m. on Sunday. “Hair” is a rock musical about the 1960s hippie movement based on the book and lyrics of James Rado and Gerome Ragni, with music by Galt McDermot. The Charter Arts cast of “Hair” is directed by Ashley Tait-Weller, and Neil Chaban is director of music, with Peter Wrenn-Meleck in charge of technical direction. Tickets are $12 for adults and $10 for seniors and students, and are available online at www.CharterArts.org and at the door, 321 E. Third St., if a performance is not sold out. Photo: Soloist Ronny (Ciara Alvarado) and the ‘Tribe’ of hippies perform “Aquarius” during Act 1.

By Dana Grubb

SPRING MUSICALS

Liberty HS presents ‘West Side Story’

The popular musical “West Side Story” is being presented by Liberty HS on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday at 7 p.m. in the auditorium at 1115 Linden St. Set in the 1950’s, the story features a rivalry between two gangs in the Upper West Side of New York City during the last days of summer. Influenced by Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet,” the playwright included some tragic consequences in the script. Tickets: lhstheatretix@yahoo.com and 610-865-0615. Photo: Anita (Alyssa Rosario), the girlfriend of gang leader Bernardo (Fahvian Shorey) dances with the Shark girls ensemble. Photo: Anita (Alyssa Rosario), the girlfriend of gang leader Bernardo (Fahvian Shorey) dances with the Shark girls ensemble.

By Tim Gilman

PEOPLE

After 43 years, NCC student service coordinator retires

After more than four decades in education, Bethlehem native Virginia Gonzalez had finally come to terms with the idea of retirement. It’s now time to travel, focus on friendships and find personally meaningful projects to occupy her days. She sat with the Press some time ago to reflect on the social evolution of her Southside neighborhood and the city, her career at Northampton Community College, and the ever-changing face of the local college population and the niche schools like NCC fill.

By Nate Jastrzemski

POLITICS
Cartwright faces friendly town hall

When Congressman Charlie Dent faced 400 angry people at Hanover Township Community Center a few weeks ago on a cold and rainy day, it was hard for him to speak more than a few words without being interrupted by catcalls over Trump’s attempt to repeal and replace Obamacare with something that Dent himself refused to support. But the weather and mood were much brighter on April 18, when Congressman Matt Cartwright faced a friendly crowd of about 90 people at Northampton Community College’s Alumni Hall. One of the messages he repeated frequently is that “democracy really works.”

By Bernie O’Hare

BETHLEHEM SPORTS

Liberty boys win EPP tennis title

The Liberty Hurricanes boys’ tennis team finished the regular season with a record of 14-0 and are the 2017 East Penn Conference Champions. “I am very happy for the team,” said Hurricane coach Leo Schnalzer. “Prior to the season, I knew we would have very good players, so I can’t take a lot of responsibility for their success. I was there to help and support them, and maybe add to their success.”

By Katie McDonald

LV FOCUS

Student poetry project

To commemorate National Poetry Month in April, the Lehigh Valley Press newspapers and web sites present the 12th annual Student Poetry Project. Students whose poems appear on Page B1 read their poems and were interviewed on the April 17 broadcast of “Lehigh Valley Arts Salon” on Lehigh Valley Community Public Radio Station, WDIY, 88.1, wdiy.org. The Student Poetry Project adjudication committee convened March 21 and read more than 100 poems submitted by students from the Lehigh Valley region. This year, The Press newspapers’ “Student Poetry Project” again received a Keystone professional journalism state award.

By Paul Willistein

OTHER STORIES

Bethlehem: Council mounts bamboo defense

Bethlehem: Property value error causes temporary budget hold up

Bethlehem: Women’s Club donates to Cops N Kids

Bethlehem Township: Brodhead Road work begins in July

BASD: Moravian scholarship recipients

Fountain Hill: YMCA to manage borough pool this summer

Lehigh Valley: Drug Take Back Daye April 29

Lehigh Valley: Gov. Wolf announces Union Blvd. work

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May 3, 2017

COVER STORY

Lady Bug, Lady Bug

Students at the Chesterbrook Academy Preschool have been learning about the important roles that bugs play in the environment, so it made sense that on Earth Day they would participate in a ladybug release for the fifth year in a row. The overcast misty weather was perfect for the release, Principal Michele Somishka said as she did the honors, cutting open a shipping bag containing 1,500 ladybugs. Photo: Chesterbrook Academy preschooler Evie giggles as a ladybug walks up her arm.

By Dana Grubb

WOMEN & TEENS OF THE YEAR

YWCA launches ‘If Not Now When’

YWCA Bethlehem and Title Sponsor Capital BlueCross celebrated the volunteer achievements of local women and teens at the 42nd annual Women & Teens of the Year Award Ceremony April 4 at the event center at Blue. YWCA Bethlehem Executive Director Stephanie Hnatiw welcomed the 175 attendees who were gathered to honor this year’s nine award recipients. Hnatiw congratulated the awardees, telling them, “You embody everything that the YWCA [Bethlehem] has stood for the past 90 years.” Photo: YWCA Bethlehem’s 2017 Women of the Year are Tina Hasselbusch, Trish Dilg, Corinne Goodwin (Mission Award), Darlene Pors and Anne Baum (Golden Laurel Award)

Courtesy YWCA Bethlehem

LEHIGH UNIVERSITY

How the country’s organized

There has been a dramatic shift in this country in the past couple of decades toward more people being single, and if and when they marry, marrying at a much later age. But when journalist Rebecca Traister began studying this trend, she found there have been large numbers of single women at periods in the past, and they have often had a profound impact on social change. Traister, the author of the new book, “All the Single Women: Unmarried Women and the Rise of an Independent Nation,” spoke to about 150 people at Lehigh University March 30, a talk sponsored by the Friends of the Lehigh University Libraries. Traister, who described herself as an alumna of the Lehigh University daycare center, is the daughter of a Lehigh English professor emeritus, Barbara Traister.

By Julia Swan

SPRING MUSICALS

Notre Dame presents ‘Curtains’

There was murder afoot on the stage at Notre Dame HS with “Curtains,” a play-within-a-play musical comedy from April 20 through 22. In the play, set in 1959, Lt. Frank Cioffi, a Boston police detective and theater fan, investigates the opening night demise of the untalented leading lady of the musical “Robbin’ Hood of the Old West.” While trying to solve the mysterious deaths of additional cast and crew members, the lonely gumshoe attempts to save the day and the play, as well as find love. This musical whodunit was director Rody Gilkeson’s 18th Notre Dame spring production. His wife, Elizabeth Marsh-Gilkeson, served as musical director and costume designer. Assisting were choreographer Meghan Koehler, stage manager and technical director Sara Faubert, and set designers Brett Oliveira and Taylor Van Kooten. Photo: Cast and crew gather around Lt. Frank Cioffi (Sam Durigon) as he reads threatening notes that had been sent to the production company.

By Ed Courrier

CENTRAL MORAVIAN CHURCH

Addressing the end of life

“We need to change the way the people we love are dying,” Pulitzer-Prize winning columnist and Conversation Project founder Ellen Goodman told an attentive audience in Bethlehem during her presentation on “The Most Important Conversation America Isn’t Having,” sponsored by the Dr. and Mrs. Max Littner Memorial Lecture Series and St. Luke’s University Health Network. Speaking at Central Moravian Church in Bethlehem, Goodman said the conversation she is talking about is how our loved ones want to live the last years of their lives, what kind of medical care they want, and who should make the decisions for them if they can’t.

By Carole Gorney

BETHLEHEM SPORTS

Lynn takes silver medal

Liberty senior Dan Lynn won the silver medal at the District 11 Class 3A Singles Tennis Tournament after competing against Nazareth’s Ben Tauber who won the finals match 6-3, 6-4 on Friday at Winning Touch in Allentown. “Of course, I wanted gold, but it’s a good feeling, silver,” said Lynn. “I just wanted to come in and play my game, go for his backhand, and come to the net.” In the first set, three games went to deuce, and in the seventh game, Lynn was picking up momentum, scoring three big points, one of which was a crosscourt at the net.

By Katie McDonald

LV FOCUS

Better Angels – 20^th anniversary edition

William Sanders saw the writing on the wall. Or, more accurately, he saw the poster on the wall. “I was trying to think of a play for the end of season. Somebody else was doing one play. And we couldn’t get the rights to another. “And I was sitting in my office. I looked at the poster of ‘Angels in America.’ I realized it would be the 20th anniversary of Civic’s production. I thought, ‘Why don’t we do that?’”

By Paul Willistein

OTHER STORIES

Editorial: Obscene, profane and vulgar

Bethlehem: Zoners approve Liden swim school

Bethlehem: Mural, public arts projects reviewed

Bethlehem: ‘Boutique’ preparations under way

Bethlehem AVTS: Students take top auto prize

Northampton County: Grand jury recommends criminal charge in day care death

Northampton County: May is Lyme disease prevention month

Northampton County: Controller wants to clamp down on county travel expenses

Lehigh Valley: Opioid abuse costs businesses millions

Steelstacks: ‘The Big Dream’

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May 10, 2017

COVER STORY

A-B-E among safest areas for kids

The Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton metropolitan area is the 17th safest city for children in the United States, according to a detailed statistical analysis conducted by consumer research company ValuePenguin. Barnstable Town, Mass., ranked first as the safest city, followed closely by Trenton, N. J. The study analyzed 200 cities or statistical metropolitan areas according to 18 key points related to safety, schools and community. Safety factors that were considered included rates of violent crimes and burglaries and the presence of police officers. Schools were evaluated on the basis of enrollments, preschool programs, class sizes and graduation rates. Community characteristics were judged according to the percentage of poverty, availability of health insurance, and access to child care, libraries and cultural and recreation centers.

By Carole Gorney

ALTRUSIM AWARDS

A selfless concern for others

Five area high school students recently received the Travelers Protective Association of America’s Altruism Award, which recognizes those who demonstrate a selfless concern for the wellbeing of others. The awards were presented April 6 at Northampton Memorial Community Center in Northampton. Photo: TPA’s Post L President Dale Stephens, guest speaker Northampton County Court of Common Pleas Judge Samuel P. Murray, Liberty HS senior Liam Mulligan and Liberty faculty member Jennifer Chomo.

By Stephanie Rephum

PEOPLE

Eclectic Performing Arts Company

Two years ago, three theater majors at Lehigh Valley Charter HS for the Arts wanted to explore more creative outlets, craving the art of theater, and banded together to found a business of their own. Now, Eclectic Performing Arts Company, a theater company run exclusively by high school students, amasses more productions than its founders could have ever anticipated. Photo: Members of Eclectic Performing Arts Company practice for upcoming performances. “Hazelwood Jr. High” will be performed at the Unicorn Theatre on May 12 and May 13 at 7 p.m., and “Dog Sees God: Confessions of a Teenage Blockhead” performs at Touchstone Theatre May 20 at 7 p.m. and May 21 at 3 p.m. Tickets for both shows can be reserved by emailing eclecticperformingarts@gmail.com.

By Kiran Pandey

SOUTH BETHLEHEM

Local designers create new bike racks

From a Bethlehem resident’s tribute to the Bethlehem Steel Corp. to a coffee bar designed just for bicyclists, the city of Bethlehem will come alive this summer with seven vibrant new bike racks installed throughout the Southside. The functional yet highly artistic racks were selected from the numerous entries received by the City of Bethlehem and ArtsQuest as part of the Artist Designed Bike Rack Project, a new community arts project designed to bring additional public art to the SouthSide while encouraging people to bike, shop and dine on the Southside.

PRING MUSICALS

Northeast MS presents ‘TheMusic Man Jr.’

Northeast Middle School’s Theater Company presented Meredith Willson’s “The Music Man” junior version in two performances March 2 and 4 in the school auditorium. Based on a story by Willson and Franklin Lacey, “The Music Man” centers around a slick music salesman who scams communities into purchasing instruments and uniforms with the promise of creating a children’s band. Falling in love with the town music teacher and librarian, he risks being exposed. The nearly 90-member cast and stage crew were directed by Natalie Parker who was assisted by Barbara Fleck as choreographer, Denise Parker on music direction, Connie Klose on stage management and set design, Sarah Thomas on costume design and Justin Amann as technical director. Photo: Harold Hill (Samuel Graybeal) tries to convince the townspeople of River City that a new pool table at the Pool Hall is trouble in River City in the number “Ya Got Trouble.”

By Dana Grubb

CLASSROOM

Empowering future female scientists

Young girls from Marvine ES experienced a unique program this semester promoting STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics). Tech Gyrls is a program hosted by the YWCA, where girls in fourth and fifith grades get to learn robotics by building and programming their own robots to move around the room. In addition to robotics, they learned about great women in the STEM field and gave presentations to their friends and families about those women. A total of nine girls participated in Tech Gyrls, and their presentations took place April 12 after school. Photo: Grace Heidelberger, an engineering student from Lehigh University. and Karen Wyant, the Tech Gyrls coordinator, with the Marvine students who participated in the program.

By Alli Poczak

BETHLEHEM SPORTS

Hurricane boys when District XI tennis title

Liberty High School’s boys’ tennis coach Leo Schnalzer described the Hurricanes’ clinching the District XI Class AAA championship like this: “I sort of knew the bus was coming. I waited on the corner, they opened the door, and I got on,” after Liberty defeated Nazareth 3-2 last Thursday at Lehigh University. “It feels great for me, but I look at it more as the kids have experienced it and will be able to talk about it for the rest of their lives,” Schnalzer said.

By Katie McDonald

LV FOCUS

Bach reimagined

In the 34 years that Greg Funfgeld has been artistic director and conductor of the Bach Choir of Bethlehem, he’s found new ways to showcase the music of Johann Sebastian Bach, the Leipzig cantor whose music, you might say, “baroque” through to lay the foundation for classical music. “We’re always thinking about how we want to present Bach’s music and how to engage and how to intrigue the listener,” Funfgeld says. The 110th Bethlehem Bach Festival, May 13, 14 and May 19, 20, with the Bach Choir of Bethlehem, Festival Orchestra and world-renowned soloists, is billed as a celebration of the human voice, “the organ of the soul.”

By Paul Willistein

OTHER STORIES

Bethlehem: Council approves state ethics training

Bethlehem: School board recognizes exceptional students, faculty, staff

Bethlehem: Spring book sale opens May 17

Lehigh County: Drug collection results

Lehigh Valley: Primary election candidates

Northampton County: Gracedale Foundation accepts contributions

Hanover Township: Restaurant, bar license for Turkey Hill?

Lehigh Valley: Dr. J. Robert Lovett, CASA honored with Donley Awards

South Bethlehem: Lehigh hosts annual ‘Spring Fling’ for families

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May 17, 2017

COVER STORY

Penn State men’s mile strut

An annual event motivated nearly 35 men at the Penn State Lehigh Valley campus to hit the pavement in hot red high heels. “Walk a Mile in Her Shoes” is an event in support of women and against sexual assault, violence and abuse. RISE, Response in Sexual Exploitation, is a campus club which hosts the yearly event that took place April 24. Photo: Penn State Lehigh Valley students lined up to get ready for the walk. Many participants chose to sport socks and heels in the interest of comfort.

By Allizon Poczak

AT THE SANDS

‘Transforming the lives of students’

Emeril Lagasse, New Orleans celebrity chef and restauranteur, will be the headliner at the eighth annual Lehigh Valley Food & Wine Festival at the Sands Event Center in South Bethlehem, June 2-4. The owner of three restaurants at Sands Bethlehem, Lagasse will kick off the event on Friday, June 2 at 2 p.m. with a demonstration of his world-renowned culinary skill. The chef will also announce the names of the six students from Northampton Community College’s Culinary and Hospitality Management program who have won the highly competitive, all-expense-paid externships to train in Lagasse’s New Orleans kitchens. Photo: Northampton Community College President Mark Erickson, speaking at a news conference, said culinary students from NCC are involved in every aspect of the Food & Wine Festival. “Cooking alongside the region’s best chefs and Emeril, hospitality students [are] learning what it takes to pull off an event of this magnitude.”

By Carole Gorney

COMMUNITY

Rotarians work together to reduce hunger

Five area Rotary Clubs joined forces March 11 to help reduce hunger in the Lehigh Valley as they set up a production line operation in Moravian College’s Haupert Union Building. Over 100 Rotarians from the Bethlehem, Morning Star, Easton, Nazareth and Saucon clubs packed rice and bean and apple cinnamon oatmeal meals for distribution to area food banks.Packing 20,000 dry meals in several shifts, the effort marked the first time that all five clubs in Rotary District 7430 had partnered on a community service project. Photo: Presidents of the five local Rotary Clubs comprising Rotary District 7430 participated in the packing event: George Morrison from Saucon Rotary; Brian Hartlaub from Nazareth Rotary; Sharon Fontana from Morning Star Rotary; R.C. Smith from Easton Rotary; and Gail Evans from Bethlehem Rotary.

By Dana Grubb

HANOVER TOWNSHIP

Park dedicated to first responders

Most of the time, they are taken for granted. Sometimes they are maligned. But when you need them, they come without hesitation. These are our nation’s first responders. Our police officers, firefighters, emergency medical and management personnel. In their honor, Hanover Township dedicated First Responders Park on Airport Road Saturday, April 28. “Thank you, for turning towards things that most people run from,” said Hanover Township Supervisor Michael Prendeville, who conceived the idea of naming this park after them. As he spoke, sirens wailed in the distance as first responders elsewhere drilled for an airport disaster that hopefully will never occur. Photo: First Responders Park is the product of the efforts of, from left to right, Supervisors John Diacogiannis, Michael Prendeville, Mark Tanczos and Jack Nagle, as well as Manager Jay Finnigan. Supervisor Steve Salvesen was unable to attend.

By Bernie O’Hare

MORAVIAN COLLEGE

Media tours new high-tech science building

Anyone passing Moravian College’s main campus has noticed the quick rise of a huge new building. Celebrating the near-completion of the Sally Breidegam Maiksiewicz Center for Health Sciences April 13, the college invited media to take a tour before the $23 million facility opens in June. Photo: Workers secure the glass atrium atop the corner of the health sciences building. The tower features a furnished study area on each floor, the top unofficially called the No-Shoes Lounge, from which the light of an eight-foot, 500-pound glass Moravian star will shine.

By Nate Jastrzemski

COPS ‘N KIDS

An educational celebration

The Cops ‘n’ Kid’s Literacy Program enjoyed its 11th annual Celebration of Reading … and the Arts and Sciences at the Northampton Community College Fowler Family South Side Center April 22. The events kicked off at 10:30 a.m. with a small parade of the Liberty HS bagpipers, Broughal MS Marching Band, and the City of Bethlehem Mounted Police Unit. The musical entertainment lasted until 3 p.m., continuing every half-hour under the outdoor performance venue and on the fourth, fifth, and sixth floors in the NCC Fowler Center. Photo: Larry Sceurman, storyteller and member of the Lehigh Valley Storytelling Guild, captivates children during his presentation, “Tales, Laughs…and a bit of Magic.”

By Allison Poczak

GOV. WOLF ELEMENTARY

Mommy’s Market marks 4^th year

It was a great time to get some bargains at the Governor Wolf ES’s annual Mommy Market.

Vendors selling used and new goods rented space and/or tables in the school cafeteria/gym, as well as in the corridor outside the gym. They were able to set up their merchandise on Friday evening. The sale ran from 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, Feb. 25. Merchandise included toys and games, clothing for children and adults, household items, plants, and decorative objects. Business was brisk. Outside the gym, coffee, tea and baked goods were on sale. Proceeds from the sale of refreshments, as well as the rental of tables, benefit programs of the Governor Wolf PTA. Photo: House for sale! In addition to clothing, Robin Hojnocki of Bethlehem was selling a beautiful doll house built by her grandfather. The house was originally wired for lights.

By Dorothy and Dennis Glew

OPINION

Fire arms do not belong in the hands of school teachers, personnel

The Pennsylvania Senate Education Committee recently approved Senate Bill 383, sponsored by Sen. Don White, R-41st, of Indiana County. This bill, which would allow school directors to establish a policy for allowing personnel access to firearms in school buildings or on school grounds, would amend the Public School Code of 1949. Senate Bill 383, which passed the committee with a 9-3 vote, will now go to the full Senate for final approval. A 2014 Council of State Government Justice Center article titled, “Arming Teachers and K-12 School Staff: A Snapshot of Legislative Action” states: “Prior to 2013 state legislative sessions, the National Conference of State Legislatures was not aware of any state laws that specifically authorized teachers or other school staff to carry firearms on K-12 school campuses.”

By Susan Bryant

Illustration by Ed Courrier

BETHLEHEM SPORTS

Double the fun

Liberty’s number one doubles team of Dan Lynn and Louis Gruber became District 11 doubles tennis champions after winning their match against Hurricane teammates Luke Conrad and David Lynn 6-4, 6-1 last Friday at Winning Touch in Allentown. “It feels great,” said Dan Lynn. “We’re a good combination, and we gelled. Louis was great, and he always finds a way to make the shot.” Accustomed to playing more singles than doubles, Lynn and Gruber had to play with a different strategy.

By Katie McDonald

LV FOCUS

Humming along with the hummingbird

Spring has definitely sprung with birds coming and going. Many bird species visit for a specific period of time each year. The slate-colored juncos arrive in November, stay for the winter and head north in April. The juncos leave about the same time as when the ruby-throated hummingbirds come from the south to spend spring, summer and early fall here. The final day we saw juncos in our yard was April 25. White-throated sparrows are also winter visitors that head north in early spring.

By Bud Cole

OTHER STORIES

Bethlehem: School district adopts new core reading program

Opinion: Demand facts; support real news

Lehigh Valley: LVHN, VA agreement expands Veterans Choice

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May 24, 2017

COVER STORY

Slow day at the polls

Voter turnout for last week’s Primary was about 14 percent, according to Northampton County election officials. Photo: Malvina Kramm, an election volunteer for Jon B. Whittington, candidate for district judge, finds lots of time to knit. Kramm said she was making booties for gifts.

By Tim Gilman

PEOPLE

Negron lauded during luncheon

She learned the value of community service from her parents growing up the youngest of 11 children in Puerto Rico. Her father was a Rotarian, so Olga Negron learned in elementary school what an agenda was and how to make a motion. Today she is a city council member, and May 10 she received the Lehigh Valley Business Community Achievement Award at a luncheon for several local “Women of Influence.”

By Michelle Meeh

COMMUNITY

Prom Dress Day a popular fit

he 10th annual Bethlehem YWCA Prom Dress Day attracted about 200 girls from 35 public and private high schools March 25 to the State Theatre in Easton. A modest $10 ticket offered a choice from more than 1,000 gently used, donated and cleaned dresses. Prom accessories like shoes and costume jewelry were also available. Mothers and other family members accompanied the student prom-goers to the popular event. Volunteers from the YWCA and the Lehigh Valley community provided assistance at the crowded and well-organized Saturday event. Photo: State Theatre’s sign welcomes attendees to the YWCA Bethlehem Prom Dress Day on March 25 in Easton. The historic theatrical sign was lighted all day for the popular event which is hosted by the State Theatre.

By Tim Gilman

MAIN STREET

Downtown on Mother’s Day

The sun came out on Mother’s Day and attracted smiling visitors to Main Street in downtown Bethlehem for the second day of the Fine Art and Craft Show. The Bethlehem Fine Arts Commission’s 52nd annual juried show presented the work of approximately 80 artists and artisans. Photo: Nancy Young, a Moravian Village of Bethlehem resident, and her daughter Kari Gearhart from Ambler examine Grateful Gathers Glass artwork during the Bethlehem Fine Art and Craft Show on Mother’s Day. Mrs. Young said her daughter visits regularly on Mother’s Day and they attend the show. Glass artist Danny Polk Jr. of Whitehall is a newcomer to the show.

By Tim Gilman

SCOUTREACH

Cub Scout speedsters

The Scoutreach Pinewood Derby featured 101 entries in the Northeast MS gymnasium April 8. The Cub Scouts build their own cars from kits with a block of pine, plastic wheels and metal axles. The boys like to customize their entries with paint and decorations. The annual event is for 6-10-year-old scouts from Bethlehem and Allentown. The Urban Scoutreach Program helps ensure that scouting is available to all youngsters regardless of economic ability, and provides a safe environment with help from teachers and volunteer adults. The program is part of the Boy Scouts of America. Photo: Jimmy J. Torres, Scoutreach district director, congratulates the fastest racers in the derby: Matthew Neuman (third place) of Pack 102 at Sheridan ES in Allentown, Joseph Templeton (first) of Pack 397 at Holy Infancy School in Bethlehem and Averic Teague Padilla (second) of Pack 391 at Lincoln ES in Bethlehem. Additional awards were also presented in a variety of categories.

By Tim Gilman

BETHLEHEM SPORTS

District 11 Track and Field

Tanczos sets D11 discuss mark

LHS’ Jackie Arthur take first in shot

Liberty’s Sahaydak wins gold in 800

By Katie McDonald

LV FOCUS

Both sides now

It’s the Yin and Yang of Lehigh Valley summer theater.It’s polar opposites on the Broadway musical spectrum. It’s Muhlenberg Summer Music Theatre (MSMT). This year, MSMT again is staging the radical and new, and the tried and true, in the American musical theater canon. For its 37th season, MSMT presents the revolutionary rock musical “Hair,” June 14 - July 2, and the classic musical, “My Fair Lady,” July 12 - 30. The family children’s show is a really big show, “Wild,” a circus performance, June 28 - July 29.

By PaulWillistein

OTHER STORIES

BASD: District will see 2017-18 tax increase

Bethlehem: City Council honors 3 property owners

Bethlehem: PPL supports YWCA’s TechGYRLZ program

Election: Unofficial results from Lehigh, Northampton counties

Bethlehem Township: Developer to pay for 3^rd of road work

Bethlehem HARB: ‘Bone Appetit’ sign approved

HanoverTownship: Rt. 512 Turkey Hill to remain dry

WEEKLY FEATURES

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Center for Animal Health and Welfare

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Student profiles

High school news reports

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May 31, 2017

COVER STORY
Remembering those who served

Rehabilitation of the 130-year-old monument cost nearly $30,000 according to city recreation director Jane Persa, with $3,000 in private donations and the balance coming from developers recreation fees received by the City of Bethlehem. It was removed in early 2016 and transported to Conservation Solutions Inc. in Maryland last October to be refurbished. Facchiano Iron Works in Bethlehem fabricated the support structure inside the monument to stabilize it.

By Dana Grubb

FOUNTAIN HILL

‘A celebration of the future’

Fountain Hill Shade Tree Commission members Jason Quarry, Mike Klo and Suzanne Poroszlai hold the flag presented by State Forester John Nissen. “Arbor Day is a different day than any other holiday,” Nissen told the gathering. “Other holidays celebrate the past, but Arbor Day is a celebration of the future.”

By Selena Cintron

COMMUNITY

‘Friends’ host ‘April in Paris’ library benefit

The Bethlehem Area Public Library was transformed into a lovely Parisian setting for a fundraiser April 25. The Friends of the Library raised nearly $13,000 for the library. This is the Friends’ third fundraising event and the theme, April in Paris, resonated with the 140 guests. As the guests sipped champagne from glasses etched with the Eiffel Tower for the occasion, they were treated to mouth-watering crepes from Cachette, sumptuous hors d’oeuvres from Apollo Grill, and a delicious selection of cheese from The Cheese Shop at Seasons. A signature French martini made with vodka, Chambord (black raspberry liqueur) and pineapple juice was also enjoyed. Photo: Touchstone Theatre mime Joe Ferraro with Tom Wendahl and Tess Blum. Ferrraro slipped silently in and among the guests, creating a shared sense of camaraderie among the attendees.

CLASSROOM

A celebration of excellence

Eighteen vocational students were honored at the Bridges Foundation’s Celebration of Excellence ceremony at the Bethlehem Area Vocational-Technical School May 4. The high-achievers were chosen from 60 applicants for scholarships ranging from $500 to $5,000.

Photo: Bridges honorees (bottom row) Brooke Adams, Alyssa Trudniak, Mackenzie Strunk, Kayla Marsdale, Kayla Hart, (top) Andrew Sottilare, Dawson Silfies, Judson Freidl, Kevin Michels, Olvin Espinosa, Ruth Sharga, Genna Wetzel, Alexandra DaRoja, Ouhua Yan, Tyrus Bahrman, Eric Hernandez and Jason Zimmerman.

By Ed Courrier

CLASSROOM

Arbor Day at Marvine ES

Tatianna Maldonado shows off the Sour Patch candy treat she got during the tree climbing course. Professional climber John Lascelle of Joshua Tree seems amused by the fourth grader’s reaction during her descent. The children were awarded with candy during the supervised tree climbing.

By Tim Gilman

BETHLEHEM SPORTS

Rachel Tanczos takes 3^rdat States

Bethlehem Catholic thrower Rachel Tanczos won a third place state medal in discus at the PIAA State Class 3A Track and Field Championships on Saturday at Shippensburg University.“I was thinking it would be nice to get in the 140’s, but I was happy,” Tanczos said. “It was a little tricky because it was raining, and we had to wipe our feet off before every throw, but it was something we all had to work against.” Tanczos threw a 138-7 at states and a 144-9 at districts.

By Katie McDonald

LV FOCUS

Shakespeare for everyone

The Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival (PSF), with its Main Stage Theatre production of “Evita” opening June 14, bodes to be bigger and better than ever for its 26th season. Already, the 2017 season has set a record. PSF set a new one-day sales record Feb. 15, opening day of single-ticket sales for the summer 2017 season. In one day, 938 tickets were sold for a more than $43,000 total. That’s a 64 percent increase, compared to the first day of single ticket sales in 2016, the Festival’s record-breaking 25th anniversary season.

By Paul Willistein

OTHER STORIES

Lehigh Valley: Officials warn of dangerous new drugs in area

Fountain Hill: Community pool to open June 10

Bethlehem: UGI seeks new natural gas tower

Bethlehem: Sands sale a no go

Bethlehem: Book sales top $29,000 for the year

Bethlehem: Southside businesses can expand

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June 7, 2017

COVER STORY

Bikin’ around Bethlehem

City officials, representatives from the Coalition for Appropriate Transportation (CAT) and bicycling enthusiasts took time May 19 to recognize Lehigh Valley Bike to Work Week 2017 (May 13-21). Gathering at Bethlehem City Hall, a group of about 30 were reminded that biking can be “fun, healthy, green and economical” by Mayor Bob Donchez’s representative Alex Karras. Photo: A group of about 15 cyclists led by CAT director Scott Slingerland took a 20-minute ride through the Northside to commemorate Bike to Work Week 2017.

By Dana Grubb

SOUTHSIDE

Keep the story alive

When the National Museum of Industrial History opened last August, it was after years of bureaucracy, fundraising and even controversy. But today it’s becoming known as a tourist destination and is expanding its community involvement and educational programming. Interim President and CEO Kara Cenni is thrilled to be running the show as NMIH gets on its feet. “Everybody is really committed to the mission, to the museum and to each other,” she said. “We have a great time working together and we’re really excited to see it succeed.” Photo: Marketing and Outreach Coordinator Glenn Koehler and interim President and CEO Kara Cenni are excited about the programs and growth they have in store for the NMIH.

By Nate Jastrzemski

MEMORIAL DAY-FOUNTAIN HILL

Last Harrah

Memorial Day was celebrated by both youths and seniors in Fountain Hill May 26. The Broughal MS band and chorus performed at the Stanley Avenue Triangle mini-park, decorated for Memorial Day. The Fountain Hill ES had second-graders waving American flags. Three fifth grade finalists read their American Legion Memorial Day essays and received $50 prizes. The three remaining members of the Fountain Hill American Legion Post 406 led the patriotic program for the last time since the ceremony began in 1932. Photo: Three remaining members from American Legion Post 406 gather at the podium following the ceremony. John Spadaccia, Commander Gerhart Bassett and James Taglang will be stepping down as dedicated leaders of the annual community event which was started in 1932 by Post 406.

By Tim Gilman

MEMORIAL DAY-BETHLEHEM

Ceremony moves indoors

Though overcast skies drove Bethlehem’s annual Memorial Day Service indoors again this year, it was both a moving and spirited tribute to the men and women who have served the nation in the military and, in some cases, gave their lives for their country. Photo: Dieruff HS’s Air Force Jr. ROTC unit marches to the Liberty gym for the Memorial Day service.

By Dorothy and Dennis Glew

GRADUATION- LV REGIONAL ACADEMY

‘You are writing your own story’

Living the dream and living for others: The Lehigh Valley Academy class of 2017 is prepared to do both.

At the May 30 commencement, CEO Susan Mauser told the 59 graduates, “You have what it takes to be what you dream of being.” She reminded them that making dreams come true will take grit, which she defined as “the ability to manage your fear of failure.” Failure is a part of the process, not the end, Mauser said. She quoted Eleanor Roosevelt, “Do something that scares you every day.” Photo: Student Council President Jonathan Skee addresses classmates at the LVA commencement exercises. Holding up a sheet of paper he had crumpled up, then flattened out, Skee said it represented “Our World, and the wrinkles – its imperfections …” then advised, “Together we can do our best to iron out these wrinkles.”

By Michelle Meeh and Ed Courrier

GRADUATION-MORAVIAN ACADEMY

‘Use your powers wisely’

Blue skies and sunshine greeted the 71 members of Moravian Academy’s class of 2017 as they marched two-by-two across the lawn at the Merle-Smith Campus in Bethlehem. The commencement took place June 3, marking and celebrating the new graduates as well as the school’s 275th year. All-School Chaplain the Reverend Jennifer Nichols began by recognizing the character of the students, whom she called a “unique collection of joy-filled, thoughtful souls, hard workers and decent human beings.” Photo: Michael Gibson Jr., class of 2017 president, is the student speaker at the ceremony. “I walked to school almost every day for four years,” said Gibson, who lives near Northampton Community College.

By Katya Hrichaki and Tim Gilman

THE FREDDYS

Oh, what a beautiful evening!

For the 15th year, thespians from area high schools got a chance to shine in the spotlights of the State Theatre at the 2017 Freddy Awards. High school musical productions from the Lehigh Valley dominated the event on May 25, including wins for Freedom, Liberty, Saucon Valley, Bethlehem Catholic, Notre Dame and Moravian Academy. Photo: Four cast members from each area high school don their various costumes to perform at the opening number for the 2017 Freddy Awards at the State Theatre on May 25.

By Ed Courrier

CLASSROOM-EAST HILLS

Science Fun Night marks 5^th year

Science Fun Night at East Hills MS marked its fifth year this spring with a variety of science- related demonstrations and activities. Afternoon showers curtailed a few outdoor events like “sky gazing” by the Lehigh Valley Amateur Astronomical Society. The admission free three-hour event for families and students featured more than 20 science-related guests and organizations from the Lehigh Valley area and some special presentations by East Hills MS participants. The event is coordinated by Tom Tancin, a seventh grade science teacher at East Hills MS. For more information contact: ttancin@basdschools.org. Photo: A microscope fascinates Cub Scouts Evan Stitt, Logan Ritter and Evan Schultz of Pack 306 from St. Ann’s School in Bethlehem. Several microscope demonstrations were popular at the Science Fun Night - “Watersheds: Live Macro-Invertebrates and Microscopes” and “Microscopy: See an Invisible World.”

By Tim Gilman

ETHLEHEM SPORTS

District champs …x2!

Gabe Albino knew he had to make up for an eighth inning error in last Wednesday’s District 11 6A championship against Parkland. His ninth inning lead off triple put the pressure on Parkland in a deadlocked 1-1 ballgame and a shallow sac fly by Caleb Tereska gave Albino the shot to push ahead the winning run. As he tagged back to third base, the play at the plate was a microcosm of a championship bout, as the throw home was on time, but Albino slid just to the side, under the arm of the catcher’s mitt, to give Liberty a 2-1 lead that would stick.

By Peter Car

LV FOCUS

Deja views

The Lehigh Valley will be experiencing a sense of déjà vu when the 1980s return this summer to Allentown. “Vision-Sound Revisited: Allentown’s ’80s Art Scene,” June 14 - Aug. 2, is a collaboration between the Muhlenberg College Martin Art Gallery, The Baum School of Art, The Allentown Art Museum of the Lehigh Valley, and The Cigar Factory Alternative Gallery.

By Ed Courrier

OTHER STORIES

Bethlehem: Moravian College plans another eatery

Bethlehem: Parks, polls study results announced

Bethlehem: Bridging the general gap at Traditions of Hanover

South Bethlehem SSTF: Sands Casino sale is off

Lehigh Valley: Memorial holiday traffic incidents reported

WEEKLY FEATURES

Around town community calendar

Police logs

Area obituaries

Center for Animal Health and Welfare

Volunteers

Student profiles

High school news reports

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The Bethlehem Press online

Where to buy the Bethlehem Press

To subscribe:New start

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