BETHLEHEM PRESS

March 28, 2018

COVER STORY

Welcome spring?

The fourth nor’easter of March dropped the most snow for the month. ABE airport recorded 12.3 inches and Bethlehem netted 9-10 inches, according to AccuWeather reports. The storm was the biggest snowfall this winter, ironically coming the day after the official start of spring. The Bethlehem Area School District shuttered its facilities on Wednesday and Thursday for the first two-day closing of the school year. Snow removal trucks were circulating throughout the Christmas City during and after the storm. Rising temperatures and sunshine helped melt the heavy snowfall during successive days. Photo: Lance Priestas and Byron Haydt walk along Elm Street with their shovels in search of customers during the March 21 snowstorm which closed Bethlehem ASD facilities for two days. The ninth graders at Liberty HS team up to shovel when it snows, according to Haydt.

By Tim Gilman

CLASSROOM

Liberty student wins research competition

This year, 600 high school students from around the country submitted essays on the importance of cancer research, and how science can find a cure for cancer. It was with great joy that BASD Superintendent Dr. Joseph Roy announced that Liberty HS student Katie Neary was selected as one of the 100 student winners. Katie, along with Liberty Principal Harrison Bailey III and Assistant Principal Amanda Hinkel, appeared at the March 19 school board meeting, to receive praise from the board and audience alike for her outstanding accomplishment. Photo: Liberty Assistant Principal Amanda Hinkel, Principal Harrison Bailey III, student Katie Neary, and board director Craig Neiman celebrate Katie’s accomplishment.

By Heather Nigrone

CLASSROOM

Sparks fly at NCC welding competition

The 48th American Welding Society welding competition took place March 9 for regional high school students attending technical institutes. The event was hosted by Northampton Community College at its Center for Advanced Technology. Participating schools included Career Institute of Technology, Lehigh Career & Technical Institute, Middle Bucks Institute of Technology, Monroe Career & Technical Institute, Upper Bucks County Technical School, Warren County Technical School and Lackawanna County Career Technology Center. NCC hosted the annual welding competition last year for the first time and has plans to continue at the centrally located college site in Northampton County, according to Dino Forst, who coordinated the event as program manager of the welding program in the Center for Advanced Technology. Photo: Joe Fronti watches Joe Kessler from the Career Technology Center of Lackawanna County using a welding gun to assemble a “pressure vessel” in an indoor booth. Fronti, a volunteer judge at the event, is a graduate of the NCC Technology Program and also of Northampton HS.

By Tim Gilman

COMMUNITY

Bethlehem egg hunt this Saturday

ANOTHER VIEW

Marching for their lives

Since the Feb. 14 shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas HS in Parkland, Fla., a phenomenon many of us have never seen before is occurring before our eyes.Students have become empowered and have successfully rallied peers, parents and grandparents to help find a solution to school shootings.Just a month later, on March 14, students across the nation showed their solidarity with Parkland, Fla., students by rallying at their schools for 17 minutes to honor the 17 killed in the school shooting and to ask for a solution to this senseless violence. Rallies were held both inside and outside the schools with student speakers and administrators talking about school safety. Some students were supported by their school administrators – others, such as more than 200 Pennridge HS students, served Saturday detention for defying school orders to stay inside the school during the rally. Photo: Thousands attend the March for Our Lives event along Pennsylvania Avenue in Washington, D.C., March 24.

By Deb Galbraith

PEOPLE

Cookie Crunch features local female chefs

It’s that time of year for those delicious hand-delivered cookies, and ArtsQuest Steelstacks celebrated by hosting the fun and tasty Girl Scout Cookie Crunch Feb. 25.The event kicked off with a Girl Scout-only portion with four local female celebrity chefs. They were: Ashley Sherman, who is the executive sous chef for Aramark at SteelStacks and a 2014 Hell’s Kitchen contestant; Heather Williams, who was the 2017 Hell’s Kitchen runner-up; Lucy Chelton, who is a Chopped Jr. winner and a former Girl Scout herself; and Sarah Sobers, who is a sous chef at Buddy V’s Ristorante at the Sands Casino. Photo: Celebrity chef Ashley Sherman shows a group of Girl Scouts how to make Peanut Butter Patty cannoli.

By Mark Kirlin

MISS AMAZING PAGEANT

All contestants are amazing

The word “amazing,” meaning something that causes great surprise or wonder, is one of those terms that has become trendy, and greatly overused. Far too many things today are called “amazing,” but in the case of the Pennsylvania Miss Amazing pageant, held recently at Easton HS, the use of the adjective is entirely appropriate. The pageant is truly amazing because it provides opportunities for girls and women with disabilities to build their self-confidence and self-esteem in a supportive environment, while redefining in positive ways what it means to be beautiful. Photo: Contestant Mileena Schaffer gets lots of support from pageant volunteers Alyssa Nelson from Wisconsin, and Joan Anagnostou of Lower Nazareth. Each girl or woman in the pageant has at least one volunteer helper.

By Carole Gorney

BETHLEHEM SPORTS

Spring sports previews: Baseball and softball

By Peter Car and katies McDonald

LV FOCUS

Chock-o-block of photos

Lydia Panas began collecting blocks of chocolate in 2000. She would find time to focus on her “Chocolate, Hair + Lint” still-life series back then, when she wasn’t busy with family life and raising three young children. Photographing the combination of lint, chocolate, and her own hair, the work was, “Symbolic of my daily life,” according to the artist.

By Ed Courrier

OTHER STORIES

Bethlehem: Council approves vacating street

Bethlehem: Wind project drifts towards approval

Bethlehem ASD: IU seeks more funding

South Bethlehem: Spring cleaning tops task force to do list

Saucon Valley: Student walk-out raises questions

Lehigh County: Fiscal officer reviews 2017 budget

Northampton County: Council gives next controller a raise

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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April 4, 2018

COVER STORY

Forever eggs

Master Pysanky artist Donna Yob has been creating intricately designed pysanky eggs for nearly 50 years. Pysanky, meaning “to write,” is an egg decorating process that uses a wax-resistant process called batik.She demonstrated her artistry at the Moravian Book Shop March 30 and 31, drawing many inquisitive shoppers to her work station. Yob says she uses duck, goose, ostrich and rhea eggs, purchasing some locally and others on the Internet. She removes the yolk by using a Dremel to create a small hole and then a cooking syringe to clean out the egg. Once it dries she seals the hole. Photo: Master pysanky artist Donna Yob works on creating another one of her eggs at her Moravian Book Shop demonstration March 30. Yob says she has been doing pysanky for almost 50 years.

By Dana Grubb

COMMUNITY

City kids scramble for Easter eggs

“They’re off!” On Saturday morning approximately 300 kids ages 3-8 gathered at Memorial Pool in Bethlehem for the city’s annual Easter Egg hunt. Mayor Donchez gave possibly the shortest speech on record: “Welcome to the Easter Egg hunt. Many thanks to the Recreation Department for organizing it. When I count down to one, go!” They went, and in a hurry. It was a scramble.

By Dennis Glew

THE ARTS

Amazed by ‘Grace’

The Lehigh Valley Charter HS of the Arts hosted a March 3 evening charity premier of “Getting Grace,” a comedy/drama about a teenage girl losing her battle with cancer. This was the finale of a full-day event where the film was shown consecutively at three Lehigh Valley venues. There was a morning screening at the Frank Banko Alehouse Cinemas at ArtsQuest followed by a matinee premier at the Roxy Theatre in Northampton. Photo: “Getting Grace” stars and producers gather inside the school’s art gallery for photo ops. Front row, from left, Preston Edwards (Dylan), Alexa McFillin (Audrey), Wyatt Root (Vincent), Vipul Shah (executive producer), Daniel Roebuck (Bill Jankowski), Benita Shah (Vipul’s wife), Madelyn Dundon (Grace), Marsha Dietlein Bennett (Grace’s mom Venus), Diane Wagner (Mary Jankowski). Back row, from left, Neal Fehnel (Balloons the Clown), co-producer Jeff Hartney (Dr. Mark), Buster Roebuck (Bill Jankowski in flashback), Jacob Williams (Doug), Duane Whitaker (Rev. Osburn) and Dana Ashbrook (Ron Christopher).

By Ed Courrier

BETHLEHEM SPORTS

‘Pates have high hopes

Expectations are high for Freedom’s boys lacrosse team coming off an EPC West divisional title a year ago. The Pates bring back a talented group from last year’s 11-8 season, which ended in the District 11 3A quarterfinals to eventual champion Parkland. Head coach Tony Fabrizio enters his third season leading the program and is confident this year’s group can keep rolling this spring. “This group of seniors is the first group to compete as a varsity program their entire high school tenure,” Fabrizio said. “They have taken this program from a below .500 team their freshmen year to consecutive district playoffs, and a divisional championship.”

By Peter Car

LV FOCUS

LV Press welcomes new ad director

Terry Plinke has been named the new advertising director for the Lehigh Valley Press’ eight weekly newspapers. A graduate of The Pennsylvania State University, Plinke has 10 years print sales experience, having worked previously for two Lehigh Valley daily papers before coming to the Lehigh Valley Press in 2017, where she has been New Business Specialist. Plinke commented on her new role at the weekly newspapers. “There is a strong place for print in the digital world,” Plinke said. “Print advertising works.” Plinke said the local format of community-based Press papers offers an advantage to advertisers.

By Debra Palmieri

OTHER STORIES

Bethlehem: NCC hosts Anderson ‘fireside chat’

Bethlehem: Irish tenor warmly welcomed

Bethlehem: Lehigh students prep for March for Our Lives

Bethlehem: Saturday book sales make up for snow

Classroom: BAVTS students are winners in graphic competition

Classroom: Lessons about eagles at the Swain School

Classroom: Swain students present Disney’s ‘Mulan, Jr.’

Northampton County: March for Meals brings out celebrities

Northampton County: $500K in mattresses makes everyone uncomfortable

Northampton County: Officials want jail population reduction

Valley: Norfolk Southern to increase rail speeds on Pa. lines

Valley: Singing sergeant gets harmonious homecoming

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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April 11, 2018

COVER STORY

King’s words recounted

The cold April wind whipped through Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Park in South Bethlehem Wednesday as, in impassioned oratory, Rayah Levy exhorted a small crowd in the sun-dappled park on Carlton Avenue. “Our children are dying every day not through natural causes, but through an infectious disease called miseducation. They are dying because society has polluted their minds with hatred and bigotry,” Levy declared. She recalled King’s analogy of a blueprint that serves as a pattern for a solid building, but that “we have become complacent.”

By Bernie O’Hare

EASTER EGG HUNTS

Fountain Hill

Fountain Hill held its annual Easter egg hunt March 31 at Stanley Avenue park, taking advantage of the excellent weather. The sun was shining and it was a beautiful morning for an egg hunt. Many families came out for the festive occasion. The egg hunt was divided by age groups. Photo: Christian Boyerl enjoys his egg.

By Tracy Rice

Hellertown

Hellertown held its annual Easter egg hunt at Morris J. Dimmick Park March 31, with hundreds of kids and their families gathered on a bright and cool morning in anticipation of the big hunt. The event was open to kids ages 1 through 12. There were five different areas set up for the hunt, based on age ranges. Prior to the hunt, the Easter Bunny made a grand entrance on one of Hellertown’s firetrucks. Photo: At the conclusion of the hunt, Lainey Levering happily holds her bucket of candy.

By Mark Kirlin

SPRING MUSICALS

Freedom HS presents ‘Once Upon a Mattress’

The Freedom HS Theatre Company present the Mary Rodgers and Marshall Barer musical “Once Upon a Mattress” April 11, 12, 13 and 14 at 7 p.m. and April 15 at 2 p.m. in the school theater. Tickets are $10 plus processing fee and can be obtained by visiting www.showtix4u.com or by calling 610-867-6630. Photo: Sir Harry (Josh Konschnik) reads Winnifred’s official papers to the ladies in waiting as the Wizard (Ryan Iticovici) and Queen Aggravain (Shannon Callaghan) learn that she actually is a princess.

By Dana Grubb

ANOTHER VIEW

Ed’s World by Ed Courrier

BETHLEHEM SPORTS

Volleyball: Hawks eye wins over top teams

Bethlehem Catholic’s volleyball team is showing they can compete with the best in the East Penn Conference. Now they have to go out and actually beat the top teams. The Hawks are off to a 3-2 start with both of their losses coming to undefeated Parkland (5-0) and Whitehall (4-0) teams in five games. In both of those of matches, the Hawks were able to sneak out wins in the first game before ultimately losing in five, but the signs of being great are there for Jeff Koch’s group.

By Peter Car

LV FOCUS

Bernstein at 100

Leonard Bernstein is an iconic figure in the history of music. As a composer, conductor, author, and lecturer, he was a person who influenced so many people’s lives, especially with his Young People’s Concerts with the New York Philharmonic. Bernstein (1918 - 1990) would have been 100 in August. Orchestras all over the world are celebrating his centennial. Leonard Bernstein was a trail-blazer, and without him and his influence, I am not sure if I would be standing on a conductor’s podium today.

By Dian Wittry

OTHER STORIES

Lehigh County: Authority’s future in question

Bethlehem: YWCA to honor Woment & Teens of the Year

Bethlehem: Substain opens with a jolt

Northampton County: McClure says Gaming Board’s time has come and gone

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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April 18, 2018

COVER STORY

Enchancing opportunities

The Foundation for the Bethlehem Area School District hosted its third annual Celebration Dinner March 20 at Sands Event Center, raising over $60,000 in net proceeds to support their mission – to enhance the learning opportunities for all students of the Bethlehem Area School District. Over 450 guests enjoyed interactive student expos, integrated student musical performance, dynamic décor, placing bids on silent auction items, and a friendly game of “Are You Smarter than a BASD 5th Grader?” trivia game. Photo: Over 70 students from Liberty and Freedom high schools entertain guests with a spectacular integrated performance.

Contributed photos by Marco Callderon Photography

SPRING MUSICALS

Bethlehem Catholic: ‘Godspell’

Bethlehem Catholic HS’s Theatre Department spring musical, “Godspell” by Stephen Schwartz and directed by Debbie Acampora opened April 13 and continues April 20 and 21. The 70s inspired ‘hippie’ costumes and the basic stage constructed of boxes that the actors stood or sat on throughout the play all made sense as you watched the musical, which had several stage-wide dance numbers and gatherings. The staging is a spectacle with movement, at times both on the floor and in the aisles. There were over 50 in the Becahi cast. “Godspell” opened off Broadway on May 17, 1971. Musical numbers include “We Beseech Thee,” “Day By Day” and “Learn Your Lessons Well.” Photo: Cast members dance in Bethlehem Catholic’s performance of ‘Godspell.’

By Lori Patrick

LV Charter HS for the Arts: ‘Drowsy Chaperone’

The Lehigh Valley Charter HS for the Arts performed its spring musical, “The Drowsy Chaperone” April 11 through April 15 with four evening and one matinee performance. Based on the book by Bob Martin and Don McKeller, with lyrics and music by Lisa Lambert and Greg Morrison, “The Drowsy Chaperone” is set in the lively era of the 1920s, as seen through the eyes of an audience member. The impending marriage of a Broadway star to a tycoon snowballs into series of comedic and confusing misadventures. Diane Wagner Dobrowolski directed and Neil Chaban (musical director), Peter Wrenn-Meleck (technical direction), Kelly Bickert (choreography) and Charter Arts student Bree Scott assisted. Photo: The cast performs the opening song, “Fancy Dress.”

By Dana Grubb

COMMUNITY

Passover meal enjoyable, meaningful

In observance of Passover (Pesach) and Fast of the Firstborn also known as the Festival of Unleavened Bread, Beth El Gibor Messianic Jewish Congregation and guests of different faiths (gentiles) partook in a seder, which means ‘order’ of the plate and wine, March 31. Photo: The congregation reads along the Passover Trilogy Messianic Haggadah while members and guests recite segments from each table under the leadership of Rabbi Mark Shulman. Green Pond Country Club hosted the event of over 180 people.

By Lori Patrick

BETHLEHEM SPORTS

BC tops Nazareth in Grosso’s 900^th game

Baseball has been a staple in Mike Grasso’s life, and last Saturday marked another milestone in the extensive coaching career of the Bethlehem Catholic mainstay. Grasso coached his 900th baseball game in the Hawks 8-7 victory Saturday afternoon over Nazareth. The Hawks (3-2) scored a pair of runs in the bottom of the fifth inning to pull out the win, giving them their third straight victory following an 0-2 start.

By Peter Car

LV FOCUS

And the band played on

As the Allentown Band warms up for its annual series of concerts in West Park, Allentown, and at other Lehigh Valley outdoor bandshells and parks, the Focus section profiles the band’s long-time conductor, Ronald Demkee, and the band’s eldest musician, Ezra Wenner.

OTHER STORIES

Bethlehem: Things get poppin at HARB meeting

South Bethlehem: Red Ball coming to Southside

Lehigh County: Authority’s charter extension rejected

Lehigh Valley: Dent resigns effective May

Lehigh Valley: Charlie Dent feted at Lehigh Country Club event

Lehigh Valley: United Way’s Celebration of Caring April 18

Northampton County: New corrections administrator named

Hellertown: Mayor’s crematorium business gets approval despite objections
Saucon Valley: Board highlights SeaPerch Program

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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April 25, 2018

COVER STORY

A rite of spring

Spnsored by the Bethlehem-Tondabayashi Sister City Commission, the family-oriented and admission-free Cherry Blossom Festival featured Japanese cultural activities such as a tea ceremony, kimono fashions, food, music, arts and crafts. Held at the Serenity Garden next to the library, the fourth annual event was blessed with unusually warm weather, with clear skies and sunshine greeting the festival-goers with temperatures nearing 90 degrees.The previous record, according to AccuWeather, temperature was 61 degrees. Photo: Sandra Lozano of Easton shows her son, Victor Gonzalez, a Japanese lantern hanging from a blossoming cherry tree.

ByTim Gilman

SOUTH MOUNTAIN DISTRICT

Cubs enjoy annual Pinewood Derby

Cub Scouts in the Minsi Trails South Mountain District held their annual pinewood derby race at First Baptist Church in Bethlehem March 3. Scouts and their families from all over the Lehigh Valley were in attendance for the yearly district race. Each scout earned the right to be there based on being one of the top finishers in his individual pack. A total of 76 cars participated out of the 85 that qualified. The top three finishers in each rank (Lion, Tiger, Wolf, Bear, Webelo and Arrow of Light) earned the right to race at the upcoming 2018 World Championship Derby race held in New York City’s Times Square (date not yet announced). Photo: A large gathering of spectators attend the pinewood derby race at First Baptist Church in Bethlehem.

By Mark Kirlin

LEHIGH VALLEY

Marine gets belated memorial

Fifty years to the day of his death April 6, Marine Private First Class Allen Glenn Mack received the memorial his family had wished for him since 1968. Mack, of Washington Township, was a newlywed when his number was called, and he arrived in Vietnam in December 1967. Months later, while participating in Operation Lancaster, his company was assigned to protecting part of a camp perimeter.

On April 6 his unit was airlifted to help extract a friendly MIA, during which they took heavy mortar attack. Mack was one of two Marines killed. Photo: About 25 family members and friends attend the brief ceremony. Vietnam Veterans of America State District Director George Puzio said, “I’m glad we could put [sic] some closure for his wife and sister. People don’t want to leave. They want to cling to that memory.” Photo: Members of theLeathernecks and Patriot Guards motorcycle groups stand at attention.

By Nate Jastrzemski

CLASSROOM

Spring Garden hosts STEAM Day

Students at Spring Garden ES had fun while exploring the sciences during STEAM Day March 23. Community members came into the school to teach kindergarten through fifth grade students about science, technology, engineering, art and math through various hands-on activities. According to Principal Eric Smith, Spring Garden aims to have a different themed day each year to introduce its students to fields they ordinarily might not have a chance to learn about. While last year’s event focused on the arts, giving kids access to multiple types of performances, the committee chose to focus on new fields this year. Photo: Fifth graders work with computers in a workshop called “Digital Breakout” with Patrick Connelly, learning how to record their voices and do voiceovers.

By Katya Hrichak

BETHLEHEM SPORTS

Pates hand Liberty its first loss

A win over your rival is always a confidence booster. Pulling out a late game victory is even better, which is exactly what Freedom did last Friday night when they knocked off Liberty 5-2 at Coca-Cola Park. Trailing 2-0 heading into the fifth, the Pates scored five runs in the final two frames for the win and knock Liberty down from the throne of being the only previously undefeated team in the district.

By Peter Car

LV FOCUS

Student poetry project

To commemorate “National Poetry Month” in April, the Lehigh Valley Press presents the 13th annual Student Poetry Project. Students whose poems are published on Page B1 read their poems and were interviewed on the April 16 broadcast of “Lehigh Valley Arts Salon” on WDIY, 88.1, wdiy.org, Lehigh Valley Public Radio and NPR affiliate. The broadcast is available as a podcast on the WDIY web site. The Student Poetry Project adjudication committee met March 28 to read more than 100 poems submitted by students from the Lehigh Valley region.

By Paul Willistein

OTHER STORIES

Bethlehem: Is city going to pot? Now yet

Bethlehem: Parking study-First view of long process

Bethlehem: 12^th‘Celebration of Reading’ this Saturday

Bethlehem: Advice sought for Goodman Building

Lehigh Valley: National Drug Take Back Day this Saturday

Lehigh Valley: Dent to depart Congress in May

Lehigh Valley: Bath to leave Colonial Regional police early

Lehigh Valley: Area music students perform in play-a-thon

Northampton County: DCED announces hotel tax funded grants

Northampton County: 37 municipalities get early present

Saucon Valley: School board gridlocked over textbook versions

South Bethlehem: City demographics laid out at task force meeting

WEEKLY FEATURES

Around town community calendar

Police logs

Area obituaries

Center for Animal Health and Welfare

Volunteers

Student profiles

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May 2, 2018

COVER STORY

Celebrating Earth Day

Chesterbrook Academy held its annual ladybug launch April 20 in celebration of Earth Day. On a very bright and cool morning, students headed outside for the event wearing their ladybug hats with antennas. At 10 a.m. Principal Michele Somishka released a bag of approximately 1,500 ladybugs and the kids enthusiastically swarmed around the bugs, picking them up and holding them in their hands. As smiling parents and teachers looked on, it was clear the kids were having a good time. Photo: The children gather around to look at the ladybugs up close as they move around the garden.

By Mark Kirlin

BETHLEHEM POLICE

Police investigate Parkhurst burning body

Around 2:30 a.m. Tuesday, April 24 Bethlehem police investigated what they thought might be a burning mannequin at the Parkhurst Apartments complex in Bethlehem. What they discovered was actually determined to be a male human being, later identified as Tyrell Michael Holmes, age 18. Details of the homicide were released at a news conference conducted by District Attorney John Morganelli Wednesday afternoon. This was also attended by Bethlehem Police Chief Mark DiLuzio, Coroner Zach Lysek, Assistant DA Patricia Mulqueen (Violent Crimes Unit) and Police Captain Anthony Leardi. Photo by Nate Jastrzemski: Bethlehem Police officers inspect the dumpster at Parkhurst Appartments where a burning human body was found.

By Bernie O’Hare

ARBOR DAY IN FOUNTAIN HILL

Trees the topic of 24^th celebration

A dreary day may have provided a rainy backdrop for Fountain Hill’s Arbor Day celebration April 27, but it didn’t dampen the enthusiasm of the small crowd that gathered at the newly renovated Public Works building on Clewell Street. After Fountain Hill Council President Larry Rapp led the Pledge of Allegiance, Mike Klo, chairman of the Shade Tree Commission, began the ceremony by saying that trees “create oxygen, clean the air and soil, act as carbon sinks, prevent soil erosion, reduce noise pollution, act as windbreaks, slow storm water runoff, boost property values, and provide a home and shelter for wildlife.” Photo: John Nissen, state forester, thanks the borough for its commitment to the tree planting program.

By Joanna Ireland

LEHIGH VALLEY

Putting ‘Memorial’ back in Memorial Day

An integral part of the 2018 Great Pennsylvania Music & Arts Celebration (PennMArt) on Memorial Day weekend will be three days of extensive programming to recognize the contributions of U.S. veterans, and to showcase Pennsylvania’s deeply-rooted role in the country’s military history. Appropriately, the inaugural event falls on the 100th anniversary year of the end of World War I, and the 150th anniversary of the first official Memorial Day. Photo: The award-winning Dieruff HS drill teams consist of armed and unarmed JROTC cadets. Here all 22 line up awaiting their turn to present an exhibition drill. They will be competing at the Junior ROTC Drill Invitational during PennMArt.

By Carole Gorney

SPRING MUSICALS-LIBERTY HS

‘The Wizard of Oz’

Liberty HS Theatre presented its spring musical, “The Wizard of Oz,” at four performances from April 26 through 29 in the school auditorium. Based on the classic 1939 movie and book by L. Frank Baum, the musical is adapted by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Jeremy Sams using songs from the original film with additional music and lyrics by Webber and Tim Rice. Judith Rivera directed “The Wizard of Oz” with assistance from Julie Wydrinski (vocal director), Allen Frank (pit director), Laura Mainiero (assistant director), Anne Marie Harrington (costume design) and Colette Boudreaux (choreographer). Photo: Holding Toto (Neville), Dorothy (Mariah Nagle) performs the signature song, “Over the Rainbow.”

By Dana Grubb

SPRING MUSICALS-NOTRE DAME HS

‘Cinderella’ (Broadway version)

Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “Cinderella’ (Broadway Version), with a social justice point of view for the iconic fairy tale, played across the stage at Notre Dame HS from April 20 through 22. “‘Cinderella’ is the story of how the impossible becomes possible,” said director Shauna Kahn, describing the theme of the musical. This was Khan’s debut as director and vocal director for the Notre Dame production. Assisting were choreographer Angelique Nihan and technical director Angela Nicolello. Photo: Ella (Evie Carlin) excitedly sings, “It’s Possible” as she is spirited away to the royal ball.

By Ed Courier

BETHLEHEM SPORTS

Karan stepsdown as BC wrestling coach

Jeff Karam thought about his coaching future heading into the 2017-18 wrestling season. And then he kept thinking about it more and more when his son, Luke Karam, earned a starting spot on Lehigh’s wrestling team this season. With Luke having three more years of eligibility, Jeff didn’t want to miss anymore of Luke’s matches. After a decade of dominance, Jeff Karam stepped down as Bethlehem Catholic’s wrestling coach last Friday, leaving behind a historical run with the program and opening up the doors for a new sheriff to take over the state’s top program.

By Peter Car

LV FOCUS

Thinking outside the Bach

Bach is getting unbuttoned and heading outside this year for the 111th Bethlehem Bach Festival taking place over two weekends May 11-12 and 18-19 in Bethlehem. New this year, the annual festival is presenting “Bach Outdoors!” a free performance kicking off the festivities at noon both Fridays on Payrow Plaza between the Bethlehem Public Library and City Hall. Organizers hope the new free event will engage people about the music of Bach in an entirely new way.

By Kathy Lauer-Williams

OTHER STORIES

BASD: School board talks tech upgrades

BASD: Facilities meeting centers on safety

BASD: ‘Future Chefs’ opens meeting

Northampton County: McCLure blasts GPA over legal bills

News analysis: Dispute between Norco Council, GPA festers

Bethlehem Township: ‘Pappy’ honored for 65 years of service

Bethlehem Township: Stormwaters leave 2,000 tons of unwanted sediment yearly

Hellertwon: Borough officials question timing of local gaming board disbandment

Lehigh Valley: Voter trends, gerrymandering discussed

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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May 9, 2018

COVER STORY

District 7 candidate forum

All but one of the eight candidates vying for the new 7th Congressional district seat appeared together before a standing room-only audience to answer questions at a recent forum sponsored jointly by the League of Women Voters of Lehigh and Northampton counties. Those at the forum were Democrats David Clark, Rick Daugherty, Greg Edwards, John Morganelli, Roger Ruggles and Susan Wild. Republican Dean Browning also participated. Photo: Standing room only at the Congressional candidates forum at Northampton Community College.

By Carole Gorney

SPRING MUSICALS

Bethlehem Catholic presents ‘Godspell’

Bethlehem Catholic HS’s Theatre Department spring musical, “Godspell” by Stephen Schwartz and directed by Debbie Acampora, opened April 13 and continues April 20 and 21. The 70s inspired ‘hippie’ costumes and the basic stage constructed of boxes that the actors stand or sit on throughout the play all made sense as you watches the musical, which has several stage-wide dance numbers and gatherings. The staging is a spectacle with movement, at times both on the floor and in the aisles. There are over 50 in the Becahi cast. “Godspell” opened off Broadway on May 17, 1971. Musical numbers include “We Beseech Thee,” “Day By Day” and “Learn Your Lessons Well.” Photo: Rachael Mège (center) is tormented in a parable during Bethlehem Catholic’s performance of “Godspell.”

By Lori Patrick

BETHLEHEM SPORTS

Freedom moves on from Hall in wrestling

Brandon Hall’s tenure as head coach of Freedom’s wrestling program came to an end recently. After eight-years of leading the Pates, Hall won’t be back next season. “It’s frustrating,” Hall said. “I can’t see myself coaching anywhere else because this is where I wanted to be, but they didn’t want to bring me back next year.” Freedom Principal Michael LaPorta offered his appreciation for Hall’s services, as the school looks for a new head coach. “We are very thankful for the eight years that Brandon has dedicated to our school and wrestling program,” LaPorta said. “At this time, we have decided to take our wrestling program in another direction.”

By Peter Car

LV FOCUS

‘Putting It Together’ at Town Hall

The Bethlehem Fine Arts Commission contacted seven area artists to participate in “Putting It Together,” an invitational show through May 31, Rotunda Gallery, Bethlehem Town Hall, 10 E. Church St., Bethlehem. “Every year we do a curated show with a theme,” says James A. DePietro, a member of the fine arts commission. “Putting It Together” has a mixed media theme involving “artists working with multiple imagery,” he explains.

By Ed Courrier

OTHER STORIES

Bethlehem: Farmers market opens

Bethlehem: City marks Arbor Day

Bethlehem: School district budget work begins

Bethlehem HARB: No COAs issued at April meeting

Fountain Hill: Construction, parking woes continue

Lehigh: The real food challenge

Lehigh: Students participate in Red Bull Launch Institute

Lehigh Valley: Bethlehem students shine in Science Olympiad

Lehigh County: Patrisanship foils meeting agenda

Northampton County: Gracedale revives tuition assistance

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May 16, 2018

COVER STORY

TECHNOLOGY: Is it really progress?

While self-driving vehicles, cashier-less grocery stores and unmanned delivery systems were once a concept deeply rooted in the future, today these technologies along with many others are not far off. The question now becomes not whether or not they are possible, but what impact they will have on society once broadly accepted and widely instituted. Photo: “We’re paving over the best farmland in America, putting up these massive warehousing distribution centers and they’re heavily automated with only a handful of workers,” according to CACLV’s Alan Jennings.

By Katya Hrichak

COMMUNITY

Good food, wine for a good cause

The Greco-Roman wine god Bacchus had his very own Bacchanalia festival in his honor, where sumptuous food and tantalizing wines were the order of the day. Fast forward more than 2,200 years, and some of the finest aspects of the festival have been preserved at Fountain Hills’ annual wine and food tasting fundraiser that brings together the local community to benefit the borough’s Playground and Recreation Improvement Fund. Photo: These workers from The Other Fish restaurant got some food tasting in themselves. Did we see some chili in there? They are Yuri Laubach, John Gerhard, Vinny Reichard and Matt Reichard. They are all from Bethlehem.

By Carole Gorney

SOUTHSIDE

Rocked by art, music festival

ArtsQuest held its second annual Southside Arts & Music Festival presented by Capital BLUE April 20 and 21, featuring live music, visual arts and family programming. There were approximately 10 wristband shows per day at multiple locations such as Godfrey Daniels, National Museum of Industrial History, Lehigh Valley Charter HS for the Arts, Banana Factory and Musikfest Café at Steelstacks. The headline performers were 2018 Grammy winners The Infamous Stringdusters, Delta Rae and Dar Williams. Photo: Liz Hopkins caps off a powerful vocal during the band Delta Rae’s performance for a large crowd at Musikfest Café.

By Mark Kirlin

CLASSROOM

LVA’s first mini-THON a success

After months of planning, the big day finally arrived for Lehigh Valley Academy’s Mini-THON committee. On March 24 LVA held their very first Mini-THON to raise money for pediatric cancer research. From the beginning, LVA had set a goal to raise $10,000. However, with dedication and hard work LVA had aimed to surpass this goal. LVA was one of many schools that took part in this rewarding event. Four Diamonds Mini-THON is an organization that allows all students to plan their interactive events throughout their school and community to help raise money towards pediatric cancer patients at Pennsylvania State Children’s Hospital. Photo: Teacher adviser Ariella Mease (center) is holding the Mini-THON flyer and is standing along with student leaders from left to right Xavier Lopez, Amber Hernandez, Madison Stametz, and Ashley Brown.

By Rana Moawad

BETHLEHEM SPORTS

Gruber, Lynn win doubles title

Liberty’s Louis Gruber and David Lynn were crowned District XI Class 3A Doubles Tennis Champions after winning their match against Nazareth’s Gabe Knowles and Nate Tauber, 6-2, 6-0, last Thursday at Lehigh University. “It feels good knowing that, coming into this, we weren’t necessarily the favorites, but we knew as long as we were playing well and working well together, we knew we had a really good opportunity and we did that,” said Gruber.

By Katie McDonald

LV FOCUS

Mosaic of art

A colorful tile mosaic of a red barn complete with hex signs is one of the most exciting pieces that will go on the block at the The Baum School of Art’s 33rd Annual Art Auction May 19.

“Pennsylvania Dutch Barn No. 2” (tile mosaic, 29 in. x 30½ in.) by William Weldon Swallow is one of more than 300 pieces of art from the era of school founder Walter Emerson Baum, as well as from contemporary regional artists, that will be featured in a silent and a live auction that will raise funds for the Allentown teaching and exhibiting art school.

By Kathy Lauer-Williams

OTHER STORIES

Bethlehem: New proposal made for Grace Mansion land

Bethlehem: AAUW book sale

Bethlehem: DAR rewards student citizens

Bethlehem Township: Special meeting called

Lehigh County: Voting machine update costly mandate

Lehigh County: Holt asked to pull amendment

Lehigh County: Drug Take Back Day nets 600 pounds

Lehigh Valley: Musically diverse Memorial Day planned

Northampton County: Local seniors lauded for volunteerism

Saucon Valley: High school principal resigns

South Bethlehem: Task Force talks spring cleaning

State: Boscola welcome open primary support

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May 23, 2018

COVER STORY

Coping with a revolving door

Twenty-five years ago, Sister Virginia Longcope opened the doors to a halfway house that would eventually serve more than 272 men returning to the community after incarceration. Stephen’s Place, located in Bethlehem, was Longcope’s answer to what she called the “revolving door.” As described by Stephen’s Place Program Director Daniel Massaro, “Stephen’s Place is a halfway house for men returning to the community after incarceration. We provide faith and [a] spiritual environment for them to address the issues that come along with early recovery from substance abuse.”

By Katya Hrichak

COMMUNITY

'It's about having a purpose'
The legendary Patsy Cline and Johnny Cash brought a packed house to its feet in Moravian College’s Johnston Hall during a March special concert benefitting the BEST Scholarship Program. BEST (Building Educational Support Teams) Inc. is a local nonprofit that specializes in developing, mentoring and funding disadvantaged Lehigh Valley students to attend and succeed in college. Tribute artists Josie Waverly as Patsy Cline and Terry Lee Goffee as Johnny Cash did not disappoint fans of these sweeping artistic icons at BEST Inc.’s first “Cash & Cline” concert, sponsored by Cohen, Feeley, Altemose & Rambo. The event drew a crowd of 374 people and, between ticket sales and donations collected throughout the evening, raised a total of $18,000 with the help of 34 volunteers. Photo: Board members and BEST scholars can finally relax and enjoy the Cash & Cline concert they put together. From the left are; board member Kim Forsyth, BEST website designer and digital marketing specialist Jay Vega, board member Troy Walker, co-founder Billy Staples, BEST scholar Sabrina Lin, BEST graduate Taylor Shafer, board member Keith Gargone, co-founder Judy Tierney and board member Mary Charon.

By Elizabeth Kemmerer

CLASSROOM

‘Swan Lake’ on ice

Lehigh Valley Charter HS for the Arts brought its production of “Ballet Sur Glace - Swan Lake” to the ice. The figure skating department of the school skated the scenes at Steel Ice Center in Bethlehem. Thom Mullins is the department and production director. “Producing a ballet on ice is a particular challenge, since skaters are accustomed to performing a routine, then leaving the ice for a costume change, returning many songs later,” Mullins said. “With a ballet, the skaters are on the ice for six or seven songs before leaving the ice. So the performance takes more focus and stamina.” Photo: The swans end a sequence dance in Act 1 during their Swan Lake performance.

By Lori Patrick

BETHLEHEM SPORTS-DISTRICT TRACK & FIELD

Seabrooks takes first

Bethlehem Catholic sprinter Zaheer Seabrooks clinched the gold medal in the 100 meter dash at the District XI Class 3A Boys Track and Field Championships last Wednesday at Whitehall High School.“That was my best race all year. I was a hundred percent, and when I crossed the finish line, I looked at my teammate Joe Kurtz, and he was proud of me, and I was proud of him,” Seabrooks said.Kurtz placed fourth with a time of 11.32. Seabrooks’s time was 11.25.

’Canes Greta Stuckey take first in 800

Liberty distance runner Greta Stuckey clinched the gold medal in the 800 meter run last Thursday at the District XI Class 3A Girls Track and Field Championships at Whitehall High School. “It was good,” Stuckey said. “I knew [Katherine Ellmaker] was very close, especially the last lap. I could feel her right next to me, and I knew I had to go because my first lap was slower.” Ellmaker, who is from Easton, came in second with a time of 2:19.25 to Stuckey’s time of 2:18.55.

By Katie McDonald

LV FOCUS

Mayfair heads for Cedar Crest

Mayfair returns to its roots this year as a free community festival, but at a new location. Last year, Memorial Day weekend was left without the annual Allentown music and arts festival when Mayfair was canceled after nearly 30 years. Now Cedar Crest College has taken over the reins and will present the three-day festival admission-free, noon-10 p.m. May 25-27, on its 84-acre, tree-lined campus at Hamilton and Cedar Crest boulevards.

By Kathy Lauer-Williams

OTHER STORIES

Bethlehem: Room to View

Bethlehem ASD: Data reveals sub shortage

Bethlehem ASD: Charter suit strains district, taxpayers

Bethlehem: Solar lights install at King Memorial

Bethlehem: Trinity Knights of Columbus mark 120^th anniversary

Bethlehem HARB: Christmas City Spirits light up meeting

Fountain Hill: Little League’s opening day

Hellertown: Chamber, authority updates reviewed

People: Bethlehem native Nick Hawkey named Distinguished Citizen

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May 30, 2018

COVER STORY

‘Hard to put into words’

The Bethlehem Garden Club, in partnership with the City of Bethlehem, recently held a Blue Star Memorial highway marker dedication, unveiling a marker installed in the city’s Rose Garden. The initiative began with a bequest to the Garden Club from the estate of Marion Clewell nearly six years before, according to project chair Liz Lorenz. Placing Blue Star Memorial highway markers across the nation is an initiative of the National Garden Club. Begun originally to honor World War II veterans, the mission has been expanded to include all who have served, are serving or would serve in the United States military. Photo:

Bethlehem Garden Club president Wendy Webber Welsh and past President Liz Lorenz unveil the marker at the intersection of West Union Boulevard and Eighth Avenue. Behind them is Lt. Col. John McGeehan (Ret.) of the U.S. Army Special Forces, who accepted the Blue Star Marker as an armed forces veteran.

By Dana Grubb

LEHIGH VALLEY

Former congressman joins CNN

Former U.S. Congressman Charlie Dent has joined CNN as a political commentator. His first appearance as a CNN political commentator was on Erin Burnett OutFront May 21.Dent emailed The Press May 22 stating he is not a CNN employee, but his arrangement with CNN is exclusive. He also said he will continue to reside in Allentown. Above: Another View cartoon by Ed Courrier.

By Deb Galbraith

COMMUNITY

Celebrating reading in the sun

Sunny weather and blue skies greeted the 12th annual Cops ‘n’ Kids Celebration of Reading…and the Arts and Sciences, held in the parking lot of Northampton Community College’s Southside campus April 28. The lot was filled with tents and tables staffed with volunteers from 95 community groups, showcasing activities from various disciplines for kids to explore. Indoor venues hosted performances by a total of 639 students, storytelling and cooking demonstrations. “[This event is] so important because the kids get exposed to literature, the sciences, drama and the theater and all of the arts, so with the performances and the big bands coming in, they see what their future has in store for them,” said Susan Stachowski, a Cops ‘n’ Kids volunteer of five years and an employee of Sands Bethlehem. Photo: Volunteers invite kids to join them in parachute-related activities.

By Katya Hrichak

BETHLEHEM SPORTS

Hawks set to play for District 11 title

Bethlehem Catholic won its berth in the District XI Class 4A softball final by defeating Blue Mountain, 11-1, last Thursday at Pates Park in Allentown. “We just had to make sure that we did all the fundamentals to get the job done, and that’s pretty much it,” said Becahi outfielder Alexa Panuccio. “We just kept the same mindset during the game, never let up, always pushed our hardest, and that’s why the score was how it was.” The Hawks got through their entire line up in the first inning, started off by Jess Indelicato who reached first base on an error and then stole second. Alyssa Jiminez also reached first on an error, which gave Indelicato the opportunity to score Becahi’s first run.

By Katie McDonald

LV FOCUS

An enchanted story

The comedy and misadventures written by Shakespeare, and some of Grimm’s beloved fairytale characters, will appear in the Ballet Guild of the Lehigh Valley and Pennsylvania Youth Ballet’s presentation of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” and “The Enchanted Woods,” 7 p.m. June 1, Baker Hall, Zoellner Arts Center, Bethlehem. Produced by Ballet Guild of the Lehigh Valley Artistic Director Karen Kroninger Knerr, “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” with score by Felix Mendelssohn, is based on the 1595 Shakespearean comedy about the romantic adventures, quarrels, and eventual reunion of two couples.

By Camille Capriglione

OTHER STORIES

Bethlehem Area SD: Students celebrate Steel legacies

Bethlehem: City brings home Silver

Bethlehem: Authority’s wind turbine fight continues

Bethlehem: Another successful book sale

Bethlehem: 111^th Bach Festival

Lehigh & Northampton counties: Unofficial election results

Lehigh County: County recognizes senior volunteers

Lehigh County; Businesses participate in senior expo

Northampton County: Koury unanimous choice as president judge

Northampton County: County to require apprentice programs

South Bethlehem: Pittsburgh artist brings 2,000 lb. sculture to ArtsQuest

South Bethlehem: Poverty simulation program

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June 6, 2018

COVER STORY

‘The ultimate sacrifice’

Despite the uncertainty of an overcast morning, Bethlehem’s Memorial Day parade and remembrance service in Memorial Park Cemetery returned outdoors to honor those who paid for freedom and liberty with their lives. United Veterans of Bethlehem president Ken Nichol conducted the service which featured patriotic messages from Mayor Bob Donchez, Northampton County Executive Lamont McClure and Pennsylvania state Representative Steve Samuelson. Photo: Signaling a wish for eternal peace, doves were released during the Memorial Day service. They were provided by Heaven’s Doves.

By Dana Grubb

GRADUATION-LV ACADEMY

‘Show them who you are’

What does it mean to be a high school graduate?” Lehigh Valley Academy Regional Charter HS (LVA) CEO Susan Mauser asked members of the class of 2018 as they sat in the Zoellner Arts Center auditorium May 29, eagerly awaiting their diplomas. “What does this piece of paper that they will be receiving this evening stand for?” The Profile of a Lehigh Valley Academy Graduate document states that a LVA graduate must be a critical and creative thinker with knowledge spanning a variety of disciplines, a lifelong learner capable of pursuing goals and contributing to a diverse society and a caring, reflective, open-minded and accepting individual. According to Mauser, each of the 71 graduates of the class of 2018 met those standards. Photo: Lehigh Valley Academy graduates decorated their mortar board caps in anticipation for the graduation ceremony.

By Katya Hrichak and Douglas Graves

GRADUATION – NOTRE DAME HS

‘Like a real Crusader’

Notre Dame of Green Pond HS graduated 132 seniors June 2 during its 61st commencement exercise. Though a school of faith, the threat of rain forced about 600 people inside. It is also a school of reason. Inside a hot gym, it was standing room only. SalutatorianKristina Guth advised her classmates that “even if you procrastinate, put your faith in God. After all, I finished second in my class,” she joked. Valedictorian Erika Antunes added that the “voice of God is always speaking,” but we all could do a better job of listening. Guth will attend Salisbury University , while Antunes is headed to Elizabethtown College. Photo: The graduating ceremony was packed with graduates, family and friends inside Notre Dame’s gym. The ceremony was originally scheduled to take place outside, however a decision was made to move it indoors due to the threat of bad weather.

By Bernie O’Hare and Mark Kirlin

GRADUATION – MORAVIAN ACADEMY

‘To inlay heaven with stars’

Two by two, the eighty smiling graduates of the Moravian Academy class of 2018 proceeded through the crowded athletic center and towards their future. The boys each wore a full suit with a red rose boutonniere, and the girls were breathtaking in all white, each carrying a single red rose. After the students entered, the faculty and trustees followed wearing the academic regalia of their respective alma mater, their graduation hoods forming a rainbow of color behind the graduates. Following the rich religious tradition of the school, the ceremony began with Reverend Jennifer Nichols offering praise not only God, but to the students, parents, faculty, and staff that made the event possible. She then welcomed class co-presidents Brandon Loftus and Jonathan Riker to the stage to address their fellow class members. Loftus began by speaking about the notion that in your senior year, time truly flies. But for Loftus, life during high school stood still as he fought a battle with leukemia. Photo: lassmates Nikolas Boylan of Hellertown and Charlotte Bloys of Bethlehem lead the Moravian Academy graduation processional into the Athletics and Wellness Center gymnasium for the June 2 event. The commencement program at the Merle-Smith Campus in Bethlehem was moved indoors after weather reports for possible thunderstorms in the Lehigh Valley caused concern.

By Heather Nigrone and Tim Gilman

THE 2018 FREDDYS

Celebrating the theatre arts

Student thespians from area high schools brought their collective talent to the State Theatre stage for the 2018 Freddy Awards. High school musical productions from the Lehigh Valley dominated the May 24 event, including wins for Freedom, Liberty, Saucon Valley, and Moravian Academy. Adult thespian Jennifer Wescoe was honored that evening for her dedication to her students in the theater arts at Freedom HS. Photo: Student cast members, selected from all participating schools, including Bethlehem Catholic and Notre Dame, join together for “River Deep, Mountain High” from the musical “Leader of the Pack” during the evening’s finale.

By Ed Courrier

PEOPLE

The Class of 1948 gathers

About 35 graduates of the Liberty HS class of 1948 and their guests celebrated their 70th graduation reunion May 5 at the Best Western Lehigh Valley Hotel and Conference Center in Hanover Township. Class emcee Jerry Yob said that only about 224 classmates remain out of the over 600 graduates of the combined Liberty and Bethlehem Vocational Technical Class, whose graduation commencement was held at Lehigh University’s Grace Hall. Photo: Twenty-three graduates in attendance gathered for a group photograph.

By Dana Grubb

TPA ALTRUSIM AWARDS

‘Be the best version of yourself’

The Travelers Protection Association Altruism Award presented April 12 by TPA Post L at the Northampton Community Center honors students who have displayed a selfless concern for the well-being of others. Bethlehem area students recognized were Bethlehem Catholic senior Chad Sodl, Liberty HS senior Brooke Zigmund, Notre Dame senior Michael Santos, and Freedom senior Sean Boyer. Photo: The 2018 high school recipients of the Travelers Protective Association of America’s Altruism Awards gather together for a group photo at the banquet April 12 at the Northampton Community Center. The award honors students who have displayed a selfless concern for the well-being of others.

By Step Raphun

BETHLEHEM SPORTS

Freedom takes D-11 baseball title

It’s been a long time coming, and it wasn’t easy. The Freedom baseball team scored two runs in the top of the second inning, and used a strong pitching performance from seldom used in 2018 Tim Healy, to take down top-seed Parkland 2-1 last Wednesday evening in the District 11 6A championship game at Lehigh University’s J. David Walker Field.

By cj hemerly

Becahi takes D-11 softball title

Bethlehem Catholic’s softball team became District XI Class 4A champions with an 8-2 victory over Bangor last Tuesday at Parkland High School. “Amazing. Amazing. I love this team,” said winning pitcher Tatum Kresley. “I can’t wait for states.” The Hawks led 6-0 after four innings, but Bangor’s Morgan Karasek and Jenna Learn had back-to-back triples to start the fifth.

By Katie McDonald

LV FOCUS

Lehigh Valley summer theatre

It’s one of only seven places in North America, where you can see three of Shakespeare’s plays at one event. The Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival (PSF) 27th summer season at Desales University in Center Valley is poised to attract patrons from across the globe with its professionally-produced Shakespeare and so much more. This year, in addition to three Shakespeare plays (the popular “Twelfth Night,” the history play “King Richard II,” and the bittersweet comedy “All’s Well That Ends Well”), PSF is presenting a contemporary play about Shakespeare, as well the Tony Award-winning Broadway musical “Ragtime” and two children’s shows.

By Kathy Lauer-Williams

OTHER STORIES

Bethlehem Area SD: District lauds students, teachers

Bethlehem: Ordinance prohibits conversion therapy in the city

Lehigh County: Authority orders rate increase for Allentown

Hellertown: Council considers recycling options

Fountain Hillo: 29 graduate St. Luke’s program

State: Local educators pan voucher vote

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June 13, 2018

COVER STORY

A Flag Day story
Beth Masiado has always taken pride in the American flag and shown the utmost respect for those who work to protect it and everything it stands for. In both times of well-being and times of tragedy, the American flag has held great significance for her. A few years ago, she joined the organization Stars for Our Troops before branching off to found her own organization, Stars for Our Heroes. Both organizations are devoted to recognizing the men and women who serve this country, but while Stars for Our Troops explicitly recognizes veterans and members of the armed forces, Masiado’s Stars for Our Heroes is all-encompassing. Photo: One day while walking past Girl on the Hill Framing in Bethlehem, Beth Masiado had an idea. After speaking with framer Dawn Moser, the two worked together to create a shadowbox.

By Katya Hrichak Photos by Ryan Hulvat

GRADUATION: FREEDON HS

‘A hero is in all of you’

Amid an ecstatic throng of thousands, years of grueling work now behind them, Freedom HS’s graduated seniors were nonetheless unable to focus squarely on the vacations, vocations, friendships and adventures to come. For the past is prologue, and the June 6 commencement at Stabler Arena was themed, “Reflections in the Mirror,” and it was marked by reminders of all they’d leaned thus far, the people who helped them, and how their experiences can inform successes to come. Photo: A Freedom graduate waves to her family in the stands at Stabler Athletic and Convocation Center during the processional at the June 6 graduation ceremony. She is one of 451 who took home diplomas that evening.

By Nate Jastrzemski Photos by Ed Courrier

GRADUATION: BETHLEHEM CATHOLIC HS

‘Memories are yours forver’

The 188 members of Bethlehem Catholic HS’s class of 2018, dressed in their brown caps and gowns, proceeded into the high school’s filled-to-capacity auditorium the evening of June 6, eagerly awaiting the moment they would become high school graduates. Following the procession of the graduates to the familiar tune of Elgar’s “Pomp and Circumstance,” the ceremony began with an invocation given by school chaplain, the Reverend Kevin Bobbin, in which he prayed that God would stay close to the graduates and prepare them for what lies ahead. Photo: Following a commencement tradition, Bethlehem Catholic graduates move the tassels on their caps in unison from left side to right. They then descended the auditorium to the gymnasium, where they threw their caps in the air in celebration after removing their individual tassels.

By Katya Hrichak Photos by Lori Patrick

GRADUATION: LIBERTY HS

‘Hit opportunities head on’

“Go big,” he said, and it was certainly keeping with the evening’s theme. Liberty HS lives up to that advice, and School Board President Michael Faccinetto knew it. From the giant crowd filling Stabler Arena to the brim, to the opening trumpet fanfare, to the night-long pageantry, no other local school hosts a commencement like Liberty. The classof 2018 was given the send-off it deserves June 7, with a special guest, multiple award recognitions, and musical interludes by the chorus and world-famous band and bagpipers. Photo: This group of Liberty ladies graduating was ready to celebrate prior to their Class of 2018 commencement.
By Nate Jastrzemski Photos by Dana Grubb

CLASSROOM: NCC

Mystery cooking competition

Eight culinary students competed May 18 in the annual mystery basket cooking competition at Northampton Community College’s Hampton Winds Restaurant for a chance to win a scholarship to attend a weeklong externship at one of celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse’s New Orleans restaurants.

Six judges evaluated the contestants in seven categories: texture/doneness, taste/balance of flavors, proper cooking techniques, plating, sanitation/organization, overall technique/ portion size, and creativity with using the mystery basket ingredients. Photo: Luke Guensch contemplates how to prepare his chicken. Ultimately, it became the appetizer, served with a vegetable puree. Guensch also served a broccoli salad with grilled striped bass as the main course.

By Joanna Ireland

CLASSROOM: BASD

Academic signing Day

The top 10 academic scholars from both Freedom and Liberty high schools were recognized at the fifth annual academic signing ceremony June 5, which was held in the Bethlehem Area School District’s Education Center. Students in attendance and their parents heard words of appreciation and encouragement from both Superintendent Dr. Joseph Roy and Assistant Superintendent and Chief Academic Officer Dr. Jack Silva, and received some advice from Dr. Robert Flowers, provost of faculty affairs at Lehigh University, who related some of his own experiences when he headed off to college. Photo: The academic scholars from Freedom and Liberty high schools are all smiles after signing their letters of commitment and then facing the cameras of their parents, who were also in attendance.

By Dana Grubb

BETHLEHEM SPORTS

Carpenter Cup team opens this week

The Lehigh Valley’s 2018 Carpenter Cup baseball team was announced last week as the squad looks to prepare for this year’s edition in Philadelphia. This will be the 26th year of the franchise, as they look to buck a recent trend of being ousted from the first round in two of the last three years. Freedom sophomore outfielder Nick Stannard is the lone Bethlehem player on the list, as the team is led by 10 players from Parkland and Emmaus. LV will open up the tournament on Thursday at Philadelphia’s Franklin D. Roosevelt Park against Suburban One National/Bicentennial at 12:30 p.m. The next round of action will take place next Monday, before the semifinals and finals move to Citizens Bank Park next Friday and Saturday.

By Peter Car

LV FOCUS

LV Summer Theatre – Part 2

Muhlenberg Summer Music Theatre (MSMT) promises spectacle with a big, splashy family show, a stage-filling classic Frank Loesser musical, and the high-flying acrobatics of a modern circus. “It’s going to be a very happy summer,” says MSMT artistic director Charles Richter. “There will be lots of premiere-performing.” The 38th season kicks off with Disney’s Broadway musical, “Beauty and the Beast,” June 14 to July 1. The production will feature lavish scenic design, spectacular special effects, and “a touch of Disney magic,” says Richter. “We’ve been trying to get the rights for years,” Richter says of “Beauty and the Beast.”

By Kathy Lauer-Williams

OTHER STORIES

Bethlehem: Marijuana one step closer to being legal

Bethlehem: 50-unit apartment complex proposed

Bethlehem: EMT Week event notes service, professionalism

Fountain Hill: Jeter Ave. work will move to phase 2

Lehigh Valley: Police seek assault victims

Lehigh Valley: Tourism by the numbers

Saucon Valley: Board approves new math program

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June 20, 2018

COVER STORY

Celebrating Portuguese culture

The Portuguese community of Bethlehem hosted the annual “Dia de Portugal,” Portuguese Heritage Day, the weekend of June 8 and 9. Featuring a colorful parade of participants who marched from city hall, the event attracted an overflow crowd to the hall and yard of Holy Infancy Church on the Southside. A highlight of this year’s festival was the presence of three groups of dancers and musicians from different parts of Portugal. Photo: Dancers from the Al Garve region of southern Portugal twirl in a dance traditional to their part of the country.

By Dorothy and Dennis Glew

SOUTH BETHLEHEM

Community wellness center opens

Following three years of work and $2 million in fundraising, a broad partnership of various city and Southside organizations finally celebrated the opening of a new Community Wellness Center on East Fourth Street. “This is a vision for a renaissance in the Southside,” said Hispanic Center board President Donna Taggart, who listed St. Luke’s University Hospital, Pinebrook Family Solutions, Lehigh University, the Fowler Foundation and the city’s Health Department as but a sample of the cooperative effort in play. Photo: The Center’s side entrance off Fourth Street.

By Nate Jastrzemski

GRADUATION: SAUCON VALLEY HS

‘It’s good to be alive’

There was no time like the present for 184 proud seniors at Saucon Valley HS June 8, when the class of 2018 took the auditorium stage for one final exercise – commencement. The graduates’ chosen faculty presenter, Gerald Demko, encouraged them to relish their commencement in accordance with the students’ chosen theme for the ceremony, “In the Moment.” “After all your hard work, take a deep breath and relax. You made it,” Demko joyfully relayed to the graduates. Photo: Saucon Valley’s Class of 2018 stands on stage at the beginning on the commencement ceremony. The class consisted of 190 students, with 39 of whom receiving student awards.

By Liz Kemmerer and Mark Kirlin

GRADUATION: LV CHRISTIAN HS

‘Life is not all about you’

With the world going one way, the Lehigh Valley Christian HS’s class of 2018 was told to go another. “Our culture is mostly focused on promoting ourselves,” Royce Seifert, a teacher at the institution, told graduates during the school’s 30th year commencement June 9 at Calvary Temple Church in South Whitehall Township. “Even on this day of accomplishment, life is not about you,” he said. Rather the15 graduates were told ultimately their lives should center around God’s vision and not theirs. Photo: “We’ve laughed, we’ve cried, but mostly we’ve grown,” said salutatorian Emily Mikhaiel during Lehigh Valley Christian HS’s 2018 Commencement held June 9 at Calvary Temple Church in South Whitehall Township.

By Stephen Althouse

GRADUATION: LV CHARTER HS FOR THE ARTS

‘A rose to be cherished’

With decorated caps and broad smiles, the 149 members of the Lehigh Valley Charter HS for the Arts class of 2018 marched down the aisles of Miller Symphony Hall in Allentown and up to their seats on the stage. The June 11 ceremony celebrated the largest graduating class in Charter Arts’ history. “You now have the joy of seeing your kids graduate from what U.S. News & World Report has proclaimed the best school in the Lehigh Valley,” Board of Trustees President Mario Acerra told parents in the audience, “But you guys already know that, because you have experienced it firsthand.” Photo: After commencement these Charter Arts graduates happily show off some of their diplomas. Each graduate also received a rose.

By Katya Hrichak and Dana Grubb

BETHLEHEM SPORTS

Hawks fall in state final

Punxsatawney pitcher Kylee Lingenfelter was able to keep Bethlehem Catholic’s batters off balance just enough for the Chucks to defeat the Hawks, 2-0, in the PIAA State Class 4A Softball final last Friday at Penn State. Kylee Lingenfelter, who will attend Penn State this fall, had 15 strikeouts. “She was everything we heard she was,” said Becahi coach Rich Mazza. “Penn State doesn’t offer a full scholarship as a pitcher if she’s not pretty good.” The Chucks scored both of their runs in the third inning, one on an RBI double by Lingenfelter and one on an RBI single by Madison Stonbraker.

By Katie McDonald

LV FOCUS

Dancing in the seats

Maybe you saw the movie “Dirty Dancing” with your friends when it opened in theaters in 1987, or maybe you became a fan when you saw it on television one night. However you came to love “Dirty Dancing,” and you know who you are, there’s no denying the power of the iconic love story and the hold it has on fans’ hearts. “Dirty Dancing: The Classic Story On Stage,” with all of the music, romance and dancing of the movie, plus more, stops during its 30th anniversary North American Tour, 7:30 p.m. June 21 and 22, State Theatre Center for the Arts, Easton.

By Dawn Ouellette

OTHER STORIES

Bethlehem: School board reluctantly approves charter

Bethlehem: City resident gets AARP recognition

Bethlehem: Tourney honors Dave DiGiacinto’s memory

Bethlehem Township: Sports field potty No. 1 issue

Bethlehem Township: Residents favor access to library

Lehigh County: Consultant contract amended despite public contention

Lehigh Valley: Cancer Support Community offers education, support

Lehigh Valley: Volunteers charge picket fences at Gettysbug

South Bethlehem: Stepping outdoors at SteelStacks

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June 27, 2018

COVER STORY

Graduation Celebrations

Special supplement: Scenes from area ceremonies

Inside: What some grads say they’ll mission about high school.

COMMUNITY

Sister cities celebrate

The Bethlehem-Murska Sobota Sister Cities Association presented the annual Slovenia flag raising ceremony June 22, which recognizes both the anniversary of the Independence of Slovenia and creation of the sister city relationship with Murska Sobota. Held on Payrow Plaza, the ceremony features about 50 area residents joined in to recognize the role Slovenians have played in the Bethlehem area. Current BMSSCA President Eugene Novak conducted the ceremony and also received a proclamation from Bethlehem Mayor Bob Donchez’s chief of staff Alexander Karras. Photo: Betty Sylva, Frank Podleiszek and Alex Gergar provides vocal and instrumental accompaniment on the American and Slovenian national anthems, as well as on “God Bless America” at the Bethlehem-Murska Sobota Sister Cities Association monument, located at the City Center garden near the library.

By Dana Grubb

NORTHAMPTON COUNTY

Michael Koury become’s 27^th president judge

Michael Koury, the son of a priest, was a Lebanese immigrant naturalized as an American citizen in 1926 in Northampton County’s historic Courtroom #1. His son Frank worked the hot ovens at Lehigh Foundries, and when out of work during the Great Depression, often visited Courtroom #1 to watch trials in progress. He would regale his young grandson with tales about the courtroom exploits of colorful lawyers like Charles Hogan. Hearing these tales, young Michael Koury decided he’d like to become a lawyer himself. But he was destined to be a judge On June 18, before a standing-room only crowd of well over 500 people in that same courtroom, Michael J. Koury Jr. was sworn in as the 27th president judge of Northampton County. Photo: Outgoing President Judge Stephen Baratta delivers oath to his successor, a smiling Michael Koury.

By Bernie O’Hare

BUSINESS

Your glam can by Polished by Her

“You can only go as far as you limit yourself,” says Marinela Santos, owner of Polished by Her. Throughout her growth as a businesswoman, that motto has held her in good stead. Two weeks ago, she opened her new nail salon at 87 E. Broad Street in Bethlehem. “I spent three years on the South Side as a solo nail technician,” she says. “A space had opened up where an old barbershop used to be, and my fiancé Tommy Figueroa and I looked at it. He surprised me by signing and bringing me the lease.” Photo: Marinela Santos stands outside her new salon. “I’ve always been my own worst enemy and said many times I can’t do this because I get scared,” Santos says. “This is a big step for me. I’m scared to fail, but I have to prove myself right, and I have to set a good example for my daughters who look up to me.”

By Joanna Ireland

ENTERTAINMENT

‘You stir, Have a beer. Stir.’

Celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse kicked off the ninth annual Lehigh Valley Food & Wine Festival June 1 with a cooking demo at the Sands Bethlehem Hotel and Casino. He and fellow chef Chris Wilson prepared and served samples of chicken and andouille gumbo and Hawaiian-style Poke to the audience. The demonstration ended with an announcement of the winners of Northampton Community College’s mystery basket culinary competition held in mid-May. Winners received a full scholarship to attend Lagasse’s externship at one of his New Orleans restaurants. Photo: Lagasse shares many tips and tricks he’s learned over his decades-long career with the audience gathered for his hour-long cooking demo at the Sands Bethlehem.

By Joanna Ireland

CLASSROOM

Donegal ES students help conduct bird count

For the second year in a row, fifth grade students at Donegan ES in Bethlehem became ornithologists for a day recently. Thanks to preparation by their teachers and a special art project, during the first weeks of spring approximately 80 kids learned about the bird population of Bethlehem generally and one sp ecies in particular for each student. Photo: Binocular Boot Camp. As 80 fifth-graders will tell you, binoculars are confusing at first. There is definitely a learning curve. But as Chad Schwartz explained, you only need to know three things to make them work. Most of the kids in this photo are still at step 2.

By Dennis Glew

BETHLEHEM SPORTS

PIAA likely to strengthen transfer rules

The PIAA looks like they’re moving towards making competitive balance changes across the state, as momentum to curb balance of power in athletics is gaining momentum for change. As the Pennsylvania Athletic Oversight Committee met last Monday in Harrisburg, a few items came to the forefront as the PIAA’s competition committee proposed changes in areas of competitive balance, recruiting and transfers.

By Peter Car

LV FOCUS

‘You can’t stop the beat’

More than 60 people will recreate the 1960s era in Munopco Music Theatre’s big, bold and bright production of the hit Broadway musical “Hairspray.” The musical about a plump teen who yearns to be on “The Corny Collins Show,” an American Bandstand-style television show in Baltimore, features catchy 60s’-flavored songs and lots of high-energy dancing.

By Kathy Lauer-Williams

THER STORIES

Bethlehem: Two early morning shootings repotered

Hellertown: Long-time family business honored after closing

Lehigh County: Honesty sinks LGBT center grant

South Bethlehem: Rare document on display July 1 at NMIH

Salisbury Township: KidsPeace reportedly hosting immigrant children

State: PSEA, board presidents praised senate education move

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July 4, 2018

COVER STORY

Restoring the respect

U.S. Air Force veteran Alan Yuknis puts the finishing touches on his display, after having had to replace parts of it that were removed by somebody over Memorial Day weekend. He says he has installed a security camera and is looking into other security measures to deter any future dishonoring of his family’s salute to military veterans and those who serve in law enforcement.

By Dana Grubb

HELLERTOWN

Church garden continues to grow

Christ Lutheran Church’s “Love Grows Here” community garden in Hellertown is a multi-faceted organic only garden intended to provide fresh vegetables for those in need in the community, as well as to teach responsible planting techniques. Originally, the church had a garden half the size in the front. In October 2017, the church started construction to move the old garden to a larger area in the back of the church property. The new site allows for more crop planting and easier access for vehicles bringing supplies in and out. Photo: The garden has a wide variety of crops, including both fruits and vegetables. Each crop bed is labeled for identification purposes.

By Mark Kirlin

BUSINESS

60 years and still motoring

Dave & Wayne Auto Center at 318 W. Union Blvd. is celebrating its 60th year as a business in the city of Bethlehem. The family-owned shop began in 1958 by friends Dave Gehman and Wayne Shollenberger, and moved to its larger location in 1975 to take advantage of their success. Gehman retired in 1994, but three generations of Shollenbergers now work side-by-side - including 86-year-old Wayne, who still comes in four days a week. Photo: Taking a brief moment away from their busy day are (from left) Tom Lenner, Todd Atkinson, Bradley Fly, and Kyle, Bill, Wayne, Beth, and “Big Wayne” Shollenberger, and bookkeeper Charlotte Gross.

By Nate Jastrzemski

ANDERSON CAMPUS

St. Luke’s to double in size

Groundbreaking participants included Dr. Israel Zighelboim, chairman of Obstetrics and Gynecology, St Luke’s University Health Network; Dr. Sam Giamber, chairman of the St. Luke’s University Health Network board of trustees; Ed Nawrocki, president, St. Luke’s Anderson Campus; Dr. Elizabeth Dierking, program director, OB/GYN Residency, St. Luke’s University Health Network; Julia Tolentino, M.D., surgical resident, St. Luke’s University Health Network; Ray Midlam, vice president of business development and strategy, St. Luke’s University Health Network; and Richard A. Anderson, president and CEO, St. Luke’s University Health Network.

By Allison Poczak

SOUTHSIDE

Charter Arts continues to brighten streetscape

Those walking along East Third Street the last few years will have noticed significant changes in cleanliness and vibrancy, as entities such as the Ambassadors, Southside Arts District and the Charter HS for the Arts have worked to brighten the neighborhood. The school in particular recently began installing 14 new murals along its streetfronts. The art was created cooperatively with the community, but was actually made by teams of students. Photo: This piece is an homage to local art legend Keith Haring. Charter Arts’ Public Relations Manager Ann Gillette says Haring’s sister attends the school for master’s classes.

By Nate Jastrzemski

BETHLEHEM SPORTS

‘Pates bring home awardes

Freedom’s varsity cheerleaders recently returned from Pine Forest cheerleading camp where they won multiple awards. The Patriots took the top spot as overall game day champions. “That’s a pretty big one. There were a lot of good teams,” said Patriot coach Breanna Bishamber. “The girls work on a new routine and build on their skills, and then get evaluated on that and perform it.”

By Katie McDonald

LV FOCUS

America on Wheels

When Dave Bausch told me 20-plus years ago that there was a move underway to build a new automotive museum in Allentown, I was thrilled. Bausch said they were looking into property at Lehigh Landing and the museum would be the keystone of the Allentown waterfront development. Cars, driving and drag-racing have been part of my life, starting as a teenager on the team operating drag races at Convair Airport (Allentown Queen City Municipal Airport) in 1955-56 as a member of the Lehigh Valley Timing Association. I operated a car wash-gas station and vehicle rental company in the 1970s. Then in retirement, I worked for an area Chevrolet dealership, transporting vehicles between dealerships and auctions.

By Wally Ely

OTHER STORIES

Fountain Hill: Firefighters complete training

Lehigh Valley: Press journalists honored

Northampton County: Council rebukes its GPA

Opinion: Finding freedom every day

State: State police begin bodycam program

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July 11, 2018

COVER STORY

‘We hold these truths’

For the seventh year, area residents gathered at Bethlehem’s Payrow Plaza to listen to public officials and others read the document that provided the basis for our nation’s independence from Great Britain. About 200 people were in attendance, many dressed in red, white and blue, some waving and carrying American flags, and even a couple sporting the tri-cornered hats emblematic of the colonial era. Photo: Patriotic colors, flags and even colonial-era tri-cornered hats were evident among those in attendance.

By Dana Grubb

And fireworks too!

Despite late-day thunderstorms and low cloud cover, Bethlehem’s Independence Day fireworks went off as planned, to the delight of many area residents. Launched from Sand Island alongside the Lehigh River, they lit up the night sky, bringing “oohs” and “aahs” from spectators at SteelStacks, with the iconic blast furnaces silhouetted against their brilliance.

By Dana Grubb

OPINION

Tragedy hits too close to home

The tragedy at the Capital Gazette in Annapolis hit close to home for me and two of my colleagues. Brad Simpson, chief financial officer, PA NewsMedia Association, Robin Quillon, publisher of The Tribune-Democrat in Johnstown and myself were meeting in a conference room just outside of the newsroom at the same newspaper that would be the topic of breaking news just a couple of hours later. I remember one victim who walked by me. Sunglasses, hat and a grumpy hello and I said to myself… yeah, he is a news guy.

By Mark Cohen/Graphic commentary by Ed Courrier

COMMUNITY

Rally protest border policy

The Statue of Liberty proclaims the United States a home for those seeking freedom from political oppression and the opportunity for a better life. For many Americans those values were challenged when President Trump announced that a wall would be built on our southern border to keep immigrants out and when the Supreme Court supported his denial of entry by people from six Muslim nations. Dismay at these measures mounted when the administration began to separate parents and their children as they sought asylum on the southern border. On June 30, thousands of Americans, finding this policy intolerable, took to the streets across the nation to stop the process. Bethlehem was the site of one of those demonstrations. Photo: Protesters particularly targeted the actions of ICE, the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, in the separation of immigrant families.

By Dorothy and Dennis Glew

REMEMBRANCE

Jean Beinski: Dedicated public servant

On July 2, before a small gathering of family and friends, former Councilwoman Jean M. Belinski was laid to rest during a brief graveside service performed by Father Anthony Mongiello of St. Anne Catholic Church in Bethlehem. Mayor Bob Donchez and business administrator Eric Evans, both former city council colleagues, were in attendance with Donchez offering his memories and condolences on behalf of the city government in which Belinski served on council for 16 years. She passed away June 28 at the age of 83.

By Dana Grubb

BUSINESS

Mexican eatery opens in downtown

Urbano Mexican Kitchen and Bar at 526 Main St. in Bethlehem made its opening official at a ceremonial ribbon cutting on May 8 with public officials and members of the local business community in attendance. “Thank you for your investment, commitment and faith in our downtown,” Mayor Bob Donchez said. The 75-seat restaurant and bar is open from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday and from 11:30 a.m. until 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Brunch is offered on Sundays at 11 a.m. and dinner from 4to 10 p.m. Sundays. More information is available at www.urbanobethlehem.com. Photo: Director of operations Todd Pasini and owners Juan Carlos and Cara Paredes show off Urbano’s dining room.

By Dana Grubb

BETHLEHEM SPORTS

‘Pates reach sweet 16

Freedom may have fell in Sunday’s sweet 16 of the A-town Throwdown, but that didn’t take away from the Patriots weekend at Cedar Beach. The Pates came away from pool play with a 3-0 record, but lost to Constitution 51-42 in Sunday’s round of 16 to be eliminated. They were the only local school to reach Sunday’s action, as Liberty and Bethlehem Catholic both couldn’t advance from pool play through the first three days of the tourney. For Pates head coach Joe Stellato, the tournament was another opportunity for the team to show the potential they have this winter.

By Peter Car

LV FOCUS

A Grande return

Frankie Grande, of Broadway, television and social media fame, stars in the Muhlenberg Summer Music Theatre (MSMT) production of the classic Broadway musical, “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying,” July 11 - July 29, Baker Theater, Trexler Pavilion for Theatre and Dance, Muhlenberg College, Allentown. “I wanted to study biology and theater and dance and that was impossible at every other college,” says Grande, a Muhlenberg College graduate, Class of 2005, who triple-majored in biology, theater and dance.

By Dawn Ouellette

OTHER STORIES

Another View: Whose ox is being gored?

BASD: Budget healthy, increase minimal

Bethlehem: Edgeboro celebrates July 4^th

Bethlehem: Golfers support Boys & Girls Club

Bethlehem HCC: Developers seek commissioner’s advice

Bethlehem Chamber: Where Are We Headed?

Bethlehem Township Emergency staff honored for saving life

Business: Wells Fargo employee’s efforts benefit Marvine ES

Hellertown: Summer community activities announced

Letter: Curbing canine carrier attacks

Northampton County: Veteran NYC, county officer new sheriff

Valley: PPL’s ‘Cover to Cover’ fosters summer reading

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July 18, 2018

COVER STORY-EAGLE PROJECT REMEMBERS

Bethlehem first veteran

Did you know that 500 American soldiers once died in Bethlehem while in service and were buried here? Did you know that a few of them – four, to be exact – are still interred in the city, while the others’ bones were scattered who knows where? Does it matter? It matters to Robert Henry, a rising senior at Bethlehem Catholic HS, and he did something about it. A Boy Scout since kindergarten and a member of Troop 352 of Notre Dame Catholic Church of Bethlehem, Robert completed scouting’s final challenge, the Eagle Project, on the Fourth of July. Photo: Robert Henry next to the crypt containing the remains of the soldier whose grave was found in 1934.

By Dennis Glew

ED’S WORLD

Graphic commentary by Ed Courrier

ROTARY CLUB-ACTION AGAINST SLAVERY

Demand for commercial sex

“Many of you know that sex trafficking occurs in India, in Russia, in Thailand, in China, but it happens right here in Pennsylvania, right here in your community in Bethlehem,” said Dee Dee Foran, a Bethlehem Rotary Club member and Accredited Pension Representative at GF Pension Corp. “Raising awareness is crucial and it often leads to action.” Raising awareness is exactly what the Bethlehem Rotary Club’s Rotarian Action Group Against Slavery aimed to accomplish the evening of June 26. Those interested in learning more about this issue’s presence in the Lehigh Valley gathered in Moravian College’s Priscilla Payne Complex to attend the talk, titled “Harm of Demand for Commercial Sex,” which featured five speakers addressing different sides of the issue. Photo: Christi Domingues, executive director of the Valley Against Sex Trafficking, urged everyone in the room to begin changing their language and the way they talk about sex trafficking.

By Katya Hrichak

PEOPLE

Bethlehem teen an early Eagle

On Saturday June 23 Peter Garrett Docteroff was awarded the rank of Eagle Scout at an Eagle Scout Court of Honor held at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in Bethlehem. The Eagle Scout ranking is the highest advancement ranking in the Boy Scouts. The ceremony was attended by PA State Representative Marcia Hahn and Jake Glessner who is an assistant to PA State Senator Lisa Boscola. Photo: Eagle Scout Peter Docteroff with parents Paul and Diana Docteroff.

By Mark Kirlin

BOUTIQUE AT THE RINK

Volunteers thanked at luncheon

The 2018 Boutique at the Rink cancer fundraiser is in the books and the efforts of over 300 volunteers and support of a far reaching community raised over $273,000 to fight cancer. The event is held at the Earl E. Schaffer Skating Rink where volunteers accept and sort donated items for resale to the public. Proceeds are shared with three area charities: the Cancer Support Community; St. Luke’s Hospice; and the St. Luke’s Cancer Center. Photo: Boutique patrons circle the blouse and shirt tables searching for the perfect style and color to add to their wardrobes.

By Dana Grubb

COMMUNITY

Butterflies to remember

In ancient Greek mythology and art, the butterfly frequently represents the spirit of a dying person, escaping the body. The Greek word “psyche,” or soul, also meant butterfly. On a beautiful Saturday morning, this historical link was the focal point of a memorial service organized by Aseracare Hospice Allentown in honor of individuals for whom they cared this past year. Called “A Butterfly to Remember,” the event offered prayer, encouragement, song and, finally, butterflies set free in the sunshine. Photo: Donna White, RN, director of Aseracare Hospice Allentown, releases 100 Painted Beauty butterflies, each representing an individual whom the hospice staff attended to their end of his or her life.

By Dennis Glew

EDUCATION

‘Never forget who you are’

Not everyone can have a legacy such as the one left by Dr. James F. Goodwin Jr.; one that continues to influence the lives of young men and women long after his passing. The African-American physician, who practiced medicine in Bethlehem in 1935, had struggled to get his education. According to a biography, the experience led him to start a scholarship program to “help deserving Negro students who needed financial assistance.” That legacy has continued to this day as the J. F. Goodwin Scholarship Fund, in ceremonies at The Meadow of Saucon Valley in Hellertown June 23, awarded scholarships to students, all from the Bethlehem Area School District. Photo: U. Harold Levy, chair of the Democratic Committee of Bethlehem, his wife Dr. Sharon G., Levy, a professor of English at Northampton Community College and (no relation) Bethlehem Area Public Library librarian Rayah Levy attend the scholarship ceremony where the Levy’s daughter, Nicole, delivery a speech.

By Douglas Graves

BETHLEHEM SPORTS

Hawks fall in finals

Bethlehem Catholic’s girls’ basketball team made it to the finals of the A-town Throwdown Divaz Tournament this past weekend, but lost in its last game to Northampton, 38-29. The Hawks beat Northwestern in the quarterfinal, 28-24, and then went on to beat Allen, 22-18, in the semifinal. “I really like the way our girls are playing defense, and that’s one thing we talked about,” said Becahi coach Jose Medina. “We did a good job of getting in the gym for two months in terms of weight training, strength and conditioning, and it shows. It shows out here as these girls are scrapping in some tough conditions. We scrap for loose change, and today we got a couple of loose change baskets, and we prevailed.”

By Katie McDonald

LV FOCUS

A fab tribute

Tony Kishman has a job to do. He does it well and gives the other Paul McCartney impersonators hell. Kishman’s “Live And Let Die: A Symphonic Tribute to the Music of Paul McCartney” lands at 7:30 p.m. July 21, Miller Symphony Hall, Allentown, and many Beatle and McCartney fans have got to get him into their life because he’s considered one of the best replicas around. The concert is the first in the 2018-19 Allentown Symphony Orchestra Pops Series. “Some nights I could be inclined to sit back and take it easy,” Kishman notes in a phone interview. “But I don’t. Everyone is looking at every move you make.”

By Stephen Althouse

OTHER STORIES

Bethlehem: Ordinance outlaws conversion therapy

Bethlehem: Summer book sale opens June 18

Bethlehem HARB: Skyline West project denied, overturned by city

Bethlehem Area SD: Districy undergoes positive changes

Lehigh County: Worker is opposed to union dues withdrawl

Opinion: Tender age children

Opinion: Student need access to summer learning

Northampton County: DA wants misconduct report made public

Northampton County: Law firm disputes Norco resolution

Saucon Valley: Board hires high school principal

State Police: $7M in drug confiscated in second quarter

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July 25, 2018

COVER STORY

There’s a new sheriff in town

At its July 19 meeting, Northampton County Council voted 8-0 to confirm Richard H. Johnston as Sheriff. He is also the joint top choice of both Executive Lamont McClure and President Judge Michael Koury Jr. Johnston’s salary will be $89,235. Peg Ferraro, who was absent for Johnston’s confirmation hearing the previous day, abstained. Johnston is the 72nd person to serve as Northampton County Sheriff since the county was first formed in 1752. The county’s first sheriff, William Craig, was a captain in Pennsylvania provincial militia under Major William Parsons during the French and Indian War. Johnston’s immediate predecessor, David Dalrymple, was a major in the New Jersey State Police. Photo: Sheriff Richard Johnston, flanked by wife Barbara on the left and daughter Maya on the right.

By Bernie O’Hare

THE COURTS

Atkins to stay behind bars

A hit-and-run driver whose car struck and killed a 9-year-old boy in 2015 as he crossed Schonersville Road will stay behind bars for four years. A three-judge panel of the Pennsylvania Superior Court on Friday affirmed a four-to- 10-year sentence imposed by President Judge Michael Koury Jr., against Royce Atkins, now 25, for failing to stop after his blue 2007 Mazda Speed struck Darious Condash, a fourth-grade student at Shecker ES. Atkins had testified that he was aware he had struck something, but thought it was a pothole or the center median. He told friends at a party that night that he had struck a deer on Steuben Road.

By Bernie O’Hare

POLITICS

Sen. Casey visits Gracedale

Gracedale, often referred to as the jewel of Northampton County, is home to about 670 senior citizens. They had a special visitor Friday, when U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-Pa.) stopped by to meet with them and speak with workers. One of them gave him a box filled with tiny Moravian stars, and another provided a Nazareth baseball cap. Casey made sure he greeted every resident he could, and then spoke to the staff from a pavilion on the campus. He described a strong America in which people help each other. Photo: Senator Bob Casey made sure he spoke to as many Gracedale residents as he could.

By Bernie O’Hare

ENTERTAINMENT

Liberty HS choir backs Manilow

When Liberty HS director of choral music Julie Wydrzynski was approached by a member of Barry Manilow’s management in March to provide backup vocals for the singer’s performance at the Sands Bethlehem Event Center in early July, she gladly accepted the invitation and began preparing. Unfortunately, Wydrzynski couldn’t be there to lead the choir as she was literally having a baby during the performance. Assistant band director Allen Frank filled in and along with several parents made sure Wydrzynski was kept up to speed minute by minute. The 26 students comprising the choir rehearsed during a preshow sound check and then performed during three Manilow standards toward the end of the concert: “Miracle,” “I Write the Songs,” and “Copacabana.” “It was extremely exciting to see these kids shine and get the recognition they deserve,” Wydrzynski said. “The students acted professionally and took their job very seriously.” Above: The 26-member Liberty HS choir backs Barry Manilow during his concert at the Sands Bethlehem Event Center July 5.

By Dana Grubb

THE CLASSROOM

SHE has everything

The music was loud. The elementary school girls were having an afternoon out at Bethlehem Skateaway in Bethlehem Township – some were roller skating, some were playing a table game with Haneef Muttaqi, an adult volunteer, and others were walking or lounging around in their socks just talking with friends. The June 27 skate party was part of bigger plan. They were all part of a pilot program designed to improve the self-esteem, health and education (SHE) for girls aged 9 to 10 years. The program is based out of Fountain Hill Elementary School and sponsored by the Community Action Committee of Lehigh Valley (CACLV). Photo: Some of the SHE girls take a break from roller skating to pose with their leaders. Top row: Maya Hernandez, Shyla Colon, Sherley Perdomo, Niani Vaughn, Delores Singletary and Ginny Sandoval. Sitting in the middle: Aniya Holmes. Sitting in first row: Janiyah Kinder-Love, Valeria Robles and Kritize Diaz-Rivera.

By Douglas Graves

BETHLEHEM SPORTS: LIBERTY HS ATHLETES OF THE YEAR
Mittl always going to give her best

By Katie McDonald

Vazquez became all-round athlete

By Peter Car

LV FOCUS

Penn’s Peak a CMA venue nominee

When Pencor Services, Inc., took a chance on a concert hall in the mountains of Penn Forest Township, general manager Craig Stelling never dreamed the site would one day be in the company of legendary country music venues like Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium and Austin City Limits Live. But as Penn’s Peak embarked on its 15th anniversary this year, Stelling learned that the Carbon County concert hall is one of five nominees for the Venue of the Year - Small Capacity in the Industry Award and Studio Recording division for the 53rd Academy Of Country Music Awards (CMA).

By Kathy Lauer-Williams

OTHER STORIES

Bethlehem: Residents, council praise conversion ordinance

Bethlehem: Morning Star Rotary grant supports BAPL

Bethlehem HCC: CADCB façade changes approved

Bethlehem: Farmers’ Market offers fresh produce and more

Bethlehem Township: Freemansburg Ave. work imminent

Fountain Hill: Borough officer among traffic safety honorees

Northampton County: Record cash seizures from drug arrests

Northampton County: County solicitor faces DUI charges

Lehigh County: Valley non-profits in pipeline to receive grants

Lehigh Valley: Synergy Fund helps volunteers, non-profits

State: Budget bolsters economy, workforce through education and skills

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August 1, 2018

COVER STORY

Changing the narrative

”Stronger Than Steel: Forging a Rustbelt Renaissance” is Jeff Parks’ intensely personal perspective on the role that the arts played in the revitalization of Bethlehem when it was struggling in the wake of de-industrialization and the ultimate demise of the once-prosperous Bethlehem Steel Corporation. In the preface, Parks asserts that there is “a direct connection between the arts and economic success,” and he spends the next 348 pages making his case.

While the focus of his book is on the history and contributions of the arts initiatives he was instrumental in creating, it is clear he has a broader mission, urging community leaders everywhere to “take a close look at cities like Bethlehem that have demonstrated that the arts, if accessible and relevant, can play a pivotal role in building social capital.”

By Carole Gorney

Sidebar: A conversation with Jeff Parks

LEHIGH VALLEY

Pa. Dems tackle the intellectual disabilities waiting list

Too many people with intellectual disabilities and autism are waiting too long for treatment.

That was the consensus of a House Democratic Policy Committee hearing held July 24 at Lehigh Valley Hospital-Muhlenberg in Bethlehem. The event, co-chaired by Pa. Rep. Jeanne McNeill, D-133rd and Rep. Michael Sturla, D-96th, featured testimony from county and state administrators, employees and doctors. It was one of a series being held across the commonwealth. Photo: Sheila Theodorou, director of the bureau of supports for people with intellectual disabilities for the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services, tells legislators her agency provides services to more than 56,000 people.

By Stephen Althouse

PEOPLE

A Peeps dream comes true

When the time comes for Bethlehem resident and Moravian College nursing instructor Michelle Sayenga to retire, she told her group of friends, who have nicknamed themselves “the breakfast club,” that she wants to “retire into a job where people are happy to see me.” She told her friends about her desire to fulfill that need by driving the Just Born PeepMobile when she does retire, and friends Chris and Adrin Eline took over from there. Photo: Just Born associate vice-president of company Performance Acceleration Ed Broczkowski delivers a gift pack of Just Born treats to Michelle Sayenga upon his arrival with the PeepMobile.

By Dana Grubb

BUSINESS

AblePay joins the downtown

Bethlehem based AblePay Health has relocated to join Bethlehem’s Historic Main Street business community with second- and third-floor offices at 574 Main St. AblePay Health is a no-cost benefit available to business entities and individuals. According to founder and CEO John Fistner, AblePay is the only provider offering these kinds of services, which are designed to assist healthcare patients with deductibles and co-pays. Photo: The management team at AblePay Health consists of Rick Schoenen, director of marketing, Valerie Banotai, vice president of operations, Ryan Werling, senior vice president of sales and marketing, and John Fistner, founder and CEO.

By Dana Grubb

CLASSROOM

Cops ‘n’ Kids summer fun

Sixty Donegan ES students came down the hill for a day of fun and education promotion at the Cops ‘n’ Kids Children’s Literacy Program special event July 12. With Reading Room, Lehigh University international student, and city Health Bureau volunteers directing and playing with the kids throughout Northampton Community College’s Southside campus, complete with gift bags of goodies and books, the fun and promotional event lived up to the Cops ‘n’ Kids mission of connecting kids and the community through literacy. Photo: Author Jannie Pilgrim, center back, of Holland, NJ had just read from, “How do you wake a sleeping prince?” from her Prince Garrett series. Pilgrim said she once visited the Southside for the annual Chili Festival and delighted at the Cops ‘n’ Kids section of the event. “I reached out to Beverly [Bradley] and said, ‘I have to be a part of this.’”

By Nate Jastrzemski

SPORTS: FREEDOM ATHELETS OF THE YEAR

Huertas helped bring home a title

By Peter Car

Roman admired by all

By Katie McDonald

LV FOCUS

A first for Packard

The Packard, featured car for the 55th annual Das Awkscht Fescht, Aug. 3-5, Macungie Memorial Park, Macungie, is legendary, from being one of the first gasoline-powered vehicles to powering military aircraft during World War I and II. Das Awkscht Fescht is said to be the largest antique and classic car show in the United States, with 2,500 vehicles expected.

By PaulWillistein

OTHER STORIES

Bethlehem: June book sale tops $10,000

Bethlehem: HARB goes esay on Hardball Cider

Bethlehem Township: Candidate’s office vandalized

Center Valley: Craziest mini-golf tourney held

Lehigh County: Board talks citizen status

Lehigh County: Sheriff’s office implements canine program

Northampton County: Pension 90% funded

Pa. Turnpike: Tool increases set for 2019

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August 8, 2018

COVER STORY

35^th Musikest opens

The country’s largest free music festival is celebrating its 35th year. In the big tent at Fest-platz Friday evening, ArtsQuest CEO Kassie Hilgert energized the early crowd with palpable excitement during the opening ceremony. “I think it’s time to get this started!” she shouted. By “this” she meant a brief ceremony honoring so many years of success and those who have made it possible, namely former Mayor Paul Marcincin and 13 volunteers who have participated in every single Musikfest. Photo: Original Chicken Lady Pat Holetz performs the signature “Chicken Dance” with accordion player Walt Groller, who has likewise played at every Musikfest.

By Nate Jastrzemski

NORTHAMTPON COUNTY

DA says gang is behind Dumpster killing

In late April, Bethlehem police responded to what they thought was a burning mannequin at the Parkhurst Apartments complex. What they discovered was a grisly horror. It was a human being, later identified as Tyrell Michael Holmes, age 18. He had been stabbed and set afire while still alive, as determined by the presence of smoke in his lungs. Northampton County District Attorney John Morganelli determined that Holmes had been conscious and in extreme pain, and that an accelerant had been used to help burn him alive. No charges have been filed. Photo: Northampton County DA John Morganelli and Bethlehem Police Chief Mark DiLuzio both believe that criminal gang membership itself should be criminal.

By Bernie O’Hare

ANOTHER VIEW

Small acts of kindness

Words cannot express how truly proud I am of my little man. He and I were walking into the local Dollar General and outside, sitting in his vehicle, was a Fountain Hill police officer. Honestly, I thought nothing of it. We see the police around frequently in our small neighborhood, so I didn’t even think twice. My 5-year-old little boy did think, though. He asked me, “Mommy can we get him something? He keeps us safe.”

By Lizzy Faye Kimak

COMMUNITY

Apollo Grill donates to local causes

Continuing its community involvement since opening in 1999, the Apollo Grill recently presented checks to four local charities through its “Be Apollo Proud” program. Owner Rachel Griffith Fox and general manager Jansen Howard presented checks July 31 to representatives from Valley Youth House ($3,260.50), the Bethlehem YWCA ($3,155.50), the LGBT Business Council Scholarship Fund ($3,315.50) and Bradbury-Sullivan LGBT Community Center ($2,825.50). Photo: Apollo Grill owner Rachel Griffith Fox and general manager Jansen Howard are joined by representatives of four area charities for check presentations July 31. From left are Stephanie Hnatiw, executive director of the Bethlehem YWCA, Fox, Jonathan Huerta, president of the LGBT Business Council, Donald Flad Jr., vice president of the LGBT Business Council, Angela DelGrosso, vice president of the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce Business and Diversity Council, Adrian Shanker, executive director of the Bradbury-Sullivan LGBT Community Center, Christina Schoemaker, vice president of development and marketing at Valley Youth House, and Howard.

By Dana Grubb

FOOD/ENTERTAINMENT

VegFest: Transitioning your diet

Under the hot summer sun, families and friends gathered July 14 at Daniel Rice Field in Bethlehem during the eighth annual VegFest Street and Food Festival. The festival theme was vegetarian and vegan food, accompanied by nonprofit organizations and retail vendors.

Everyone in attendance opted to try meatless meals while listening to live music and grabbing informational pamphlets from animal rights activists, pig rescuers, and environmental activists. Food trucks and food stations recreated classic dishes, minus animal product ingredients. (And added meat replacement ideas.) Photo: Festival-goers line up for some fresh, meatless meals and homemade lemonade.

By Selena Cintrin

LIVING WITH FAITH

What is home?

In 1994 and 1995, a TV series aired called “Christy” staring Kellie Martin. In it, a 19-year-old Christy leaves her parents’ home to teach in Cutter Gap, a fictional Appalachian village. In the pilot of the series, Christy watches the train as it leaves her at a lonely, isolated station. “That train was my last link with home,” she says. “Everything dear and familiar was disappearing over the horizon.” Why do I mention this? I mention it, because on Aug. 2, 2017, it echoed my thoughts perfectly. I was sitting in my car with my puppy, Faith, as I watched the cars containing my family drive south on Interstate 15, as I needed to head west on Highway 2 to my new home in Cut Bank, Montana. Photo: Cut Bank, Montana, is located 30 miles south of the Canada–United States border. The name of the city comes from the cut bank (gorge) – a scenic hazard to navigation and a geologic feature of the same name. As of the 2010 census there were 2,869 people, 1,249 households and 739 families residing in the town.

By Carina Stoves

SPORTS-BETHLEHEM CATHOLIC’S ATHLETES OF THE YEAR

‘Relentless’ Brown set the tone at BC

By Katie McDonald

Young grew into a threat on the court

By Peter Car

LV FOCUS

Passion for choral arts

For the Bach Choir of Bethlehem and Bel Canto Youth Choir, formerly based in Red Hill, Montgomery County, a merger of the two nonproft choral groups has been a long time coming. In 2012, Bel Canto sang with the Bach Choir for Benjamin Britten’s cantata “St. Nicolas” and the following year, members lent their youthful voices to the Bach Choir’s 2013 CD, “A Child’s Christmas in Bethlehem.” Last year, Bel Canto singers performed in the Bach Choir’s performance of Leonard Bernstein’s iconic “Mass.” Now the two groups have become one.

By Kathy Lauer-Williams

OTHER STORIES

Bethlehem: Three variances granted with alacrity

Bethlehem police: Man wanted for indecent exposure

Classroom: AAUW presents annual scholarships

Classroom: Grant benefits St. Anne’s support program

Classroom: Manito students in therapeutic horse show

Hanover Township: Township joins chorus for state gerrymandering reform

Homefront: Sometimes children must learn from their mistakes

Lehigh Valley: Provident Bank awards grants

Lehigh Valley: Curbing the spotted lanternfly threat

Northampton County: GPA a revolving door of people, problems

Northampton County: How much is that doggie in the window?

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

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