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December 3, 2014

COVER STORY
  Let them lead the way
The holiday season officially got under way in the Christmas City with the decorating of the Mayor’s Tree and the 50th annual Christmas treelighting ceremony in Payroll Plaza. Photo: Selected students from Calypso and Lincoln elementary schools with Bethlehem Mayor Robert Donchez. Students Spencer Sabo, Gabriella Robinson, Marksym Johnson, Trevor Martucci and Jacob Rivera were chosen to be the mayor’s assistants, primarily turning on the lights during the Nov. 28 Christmas City Tree Lighting ceremony.
By Tim Gilman


LEHIGH VALLEY
  Early ed programs lead to trained workforce
Tomorrow’s science, technology, engineering and math workforce starts with early education. Sadly, there is an education gap in these areas that needs to be closed if children are to become the STEM-skilled workers that businesses need to compete globally. Photo: Sponsored by Community Services for Children, the Lehigh Valley Early Learning Coalition and PBS39, the Nov. 12 Early Education STEM Summit focused on the need for support and funding in the areas of science, technology, engineering and math. Fred Rogers Company CEO William Isler, who chairs the Pennsylvania Early Learning Investment Commission, speaks to a group of about 50 community leaders at PBS39 in Bethlehem.
By Carol Smith


WEALTH
  Task force blames disparity on racism
Thanks in part to a $3.4 million sustainable communities grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development in 2011, a local “Task Force on Wealth Disparity” has found a provocative culprit: Racism. Photo: Olga Negron and the Rev. Gregory Edwards take turns reading portions of the report.
By Bernie O’Hare


SOUTHSIDE
  Light the night
With the blessing of the City of Bethlehem and Lehigh University law enforcement officials, the Lehigh University Student Senate undertook its annual ‘Light Up Off Campus’ program Oct. 22. Photo: Members of the Lehigh University Student Senate gather before heading out to pound the area sidewalks in neighborhoods between Pierce and Carlton streets from West Fourth Street south to the campus.
By Dana Grubb


BETHLEHEM
  First snowstorm not so bad
A pack of canine-lovers walks along a snow-covered sidewalk on Broad Street Bridge on Thanksgiving Day. Craig Biehl with his black Australian dog brings up the rear, Kasey Leibenroth with a cattle dog mix and husband Will Leibenroth, visiting from Maine, and Jillian Eaton, who recently moved to Broad Street.
By Tim Gilman


ENTERTAINMENT
  Apple festival seed planted
The Burnside Sale and Apple Days festival had a successful debut the first weekend of September, according to Charlene Donchez Mowers, president of Historic Bethlehem Museums and Sites. “We were very pleased with the number of people from the Lehigh Valley community who came out to enjoy our new event at Burnside Plantation in Bethlehem. Photo: Gabriella Vacaro of Bethlehem Township offers her partly eaten apple to a toy sheep during storytelling by Regina Kochmaruk of the Bethlehem Area Public Library. The new Burnside Sale and Apple Days featured a variety of activities for visitors of all ages.
By Tim Gilman


DOWNTOWN
  Christmas Village returns
Lisa and Kyle Kuester of Bethlehem walk their dog past some Christmas Village huts near Central Moravian Church and Main Street. The outdoor holiday season event which features 35 wooden stalls is modeled after a traditional German holiday market which sells a variety of native wares and food.
By Tim Gilman


THIS WEEK IN BETHLEHEM HISTORY
  Christmas in South Bethlehem
In 1985, author Joan Campion (1940-2011), along with five like-minded friends, founded and incorporated South Bethlehem Historical Society. Over the past 29 years, the society has offered many events that have delighted its membership, supporters and friends throughout Bethlehem. Photo: A decorated Slovak tree from a previous Christmas display.
By Ken Raniere






LEHIGH UNIVERSITY
  Marathon tops $50,000
Lehigh’s Dance Marathon was founded by Alex Stephanou and Katie Walters last year, making Lehigh one of the first schools to raise money for the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Last year, Dance Marathon raised close to $40,000, and this year they hoped to raise $50,000, and exceeded that number by more than $4,000.
By Lisa Kocay

THIS WEEK IN BETHLEHEM SPORTS
  Becahi season ends with loss to Somerset
Based on their comparative seasons, Becahi looked like they would likely advance to the PIAA Class 3A semifinal against high-powered Archbishop Wood this weekend. Somerset, their opponent, did enter Chambersburg High School with an overall 12-1 record, but they tangled with mostly Class A and AA teams, while Becahi also posted 12 wins and appeared primed to advance as they marched through ever-competitive East Penn Conference this fall. A lopsided victory could have been in the offing.
By Jeff Moeller



OTHER STORIES
BASD: Bailey named BAEF head
Bethlehem: Homicide darkens holiday week
Bethlehem Township: No tax hike budget proposed
Bethlehem Township: Monthly report highlights
Hanover Township: Another ‘on-target’ budget year
Hanover Township: Proposed adult daycare approved
Letter: Ted Martz remembered
Northampton County: Another view-Concerns raised over reimbursements

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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December 10, 2014

COVER STORIES
  Prayers for peace: Payrow Plaza Rally
People of many races gather Sunday afternoon at Payrow Plaza to question recent events in Ferguson, Mo., New York City and Cleveland. Looking at the “Pray for Peace and Justice” sign held by a young man, Bethlehem Police Chief Mark DiLuzio said, “That’s what everybody wants.”
By Bernie O’Hare

  Prayers for Peace: 49th Advent Breakfast
A record crowd turned out for the 49th annual Community Advent Breakfast at Moravian Village Dec 6. The ecumenical event, organized by the Citizens Christmas City Committee of the Bethlehem Area Chamber of Commerce, marks the religious arrival of the Christmas season. Photo: Yvonne Walther, Jean Piper, Betty Jaxheimer and Marie Leyden hold their candles during the candle lighting ceremony.
By Linda Anthony and Tim Gilman


LEHIGH VALLEY
  Health study results discussed
A two-year study of the Lehigh Valley, funded with a $3 million Sustainable Communities HUD grant, was the focus of a Nov. 18 public meeting at Northampton Community College’s Southside campus. Eric McAfee, director of community planning for the Lehigh Valley Planning Commission, summarized the report to an audience of about 35 people, each of whom was supplied with a hard copy, along with a tote bag and water bottle. Photo: Southside Steely, Bethlehem’s latest Super Hero, drops by to keep everyone safe ... and entertain the kids.
By Bernie O’Hare


ED’S WORLD
Graphic commentary by Ed Courrier


SOUTHSIDE
  Trees of the season
South Bethlehem Historical Society hosted its 23rd annual ethnic Christmas tree lighting event Nov. 30 at the Comfort Suites on Third Street. The tree lighting serves as a fundraiser for the society. Volunteers from several South Bethlehem church and ethnic organizations decorated 19 Christmas trees. The trees will be displayed in the lobby of Comfort Suites through Jan. 3 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. Photo: Frank Podleiszek leads the crowd in singing Christmas carols.
By Ruth Grady

CLASSROOM
  Freedom HS stages Parent Reunification drill
Every student knows what to expect when an earthquake, a tornado or another natural disaster strikes. The procedures are standard: get low, stay covered and wait for a teacher or administrator to give direction on what to do next. But what happens after an intruder enters the premises and students evacuate the building? How do those students get reunited with their parents? 
By Caitlin McCadden and Karla Erdman

THIS WEEK IN BETHLEHEM SPORTS
  Winter previews: Bacahi moves to 3A
It’s not only the biggest story line in District 11, but it may be the most talked about story in the state with Bethlehem Catholic moving up to 3A this year for wrestling. After winning three straight 2A team titles, the Golden Hawks open their 2014-15 calendar at home Wednesday night against Northampton.
By Peter Car

OTHER STORIES
BASD: Same leaders, new technology
Northampton County: Council approves 1 mill tax hike
Saucon Valley: District teachers seek COL increase
Bethlehem: Live Christmas pageant this weekend
Bethlehem: Getting ready for Luminaria Night
Bethlehem: Tony Orlando Day

WEEKLY FEATURES
Around town community calendar
Police logs
Area obituaries
Center for Animal Health and Welfare
Volunteers
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December 17, 2014

COVER STORY- CAMELS AND CANDLES

36th annual Live Nativity
The innkeeper, portrayed by longtime pageant participant and past president John Cornish of Bethlehem, tells Joseph, Gary Snyder of Bethlehem, “there’s no room at the Inn.” Instead the holy family found shelter in a local stable where Jesus Christ was born as the biblical savior.
By Tim Gilman


Luminaria Night’s newest participants
The Bethlehem area observed its 17th Luminaria Night Dec. 13. More than 100,000 lights were purchased by area residents, businesses and organizations for the event sponsored by New Bethany Ministries. Traditions of America at Bridle Path homeowners participated in the event for the first time and purchased more than 1,200 lumiaria kits.
By Ruth Grady


LEHIGH UNIVERSITY
  Building relationships
Lehigh University Police Officers hosted their annual “Shop with a Cop” event Dec. 6 to help Southside working families this holiday season. About 35 children were joined by 18 officers and staff members for a breakfast with Santa Claus, followed by holiday shopping at Walmart. Families were selected by Southside clergy and local schools based on need. “The ‘Shop with a Cop’ program is a way for us to give back to the community,” said Chief Edward Shupp. “It’s also a great way to build relationships and demonstrate to kids that police officers are their allies, not enemies.” Photo: Lehigh University Police Sgt. Brian Kelly helps Tyanne Dejesus and Tanishka Dejesus pick out pants during the annual Shop with a Lehigh Cop at Walmart in Easton.
Contributed story and photo


CLASSROOM
  Anti-bullying concert a hit
Reverse Order, a national touring band whose members hail from Hackettstown, N.J., rocked Our Lady of Perpetual Help School in Bethlehem recently with a concert/assembly that included messages about dealing with school bullies. ABOVE: Reverse Order guitarist Andrew Katsock chats with students and signs autographs after the show. “I used to get bullied about my weight,” Katsock told the crowd. “Being part of a rock band and fitting in somewhere changed my life for the better.”
By Diane Pelaggi

THIS WEEK IN BETHLEHEM SPORTS
  Patriot boys off to unbeaten start
One of the surprise teams to have a hot start this winter in boys’ basketball have been the undefeated exploits of Freedom. The Patriots (3-0, 2-0) registered league wins over Easton and Dieruff last week to have them nestled atop the Steel Division with city rival Liberty (3-0, 2-0).
By Peter Car

OTHER STORIES
BASD: Language school denied second location
Bethlehem: Donation supports YWCA’s health education program
Bethlehem: St. Luke’s Simgers delight attendees
Bethlehem: Looking for leaves
Bethlehem: Residents marks 101st birthday
Southside: Christkindlmarkt closes Sunday
Northampton County: Council keen on Keen
Lehigh Valley: LV business helps former Lehigh athlete diagnosed with ALS
Lehigh Valley: PPL - Three steps to energy savings
Lehigh Valley: Oil shortage unlikely, says oil economist
St. Luke’s: A unique patient experience
Another View: A task done in the spirit of giving
School: Student film festival ‘scary, suspenseful’
School: Lessons for the kids

WEEKLY FEATURES
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Center for Animal Health and Welfare
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Student profiles
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January 14, 2015

COVER STORY
  Project HOPE: Sharing Christmas joy
More than 600 children and adults from throughout the Lehigh Valley were treated to an early Christmas with all the trimmings this year, thanks to the efforts of Project Hope of Easton and Our Lady of Lebanon Catholic Church. In its 27th year, Project Hope provides everyone attending not only a traditional Christmas dinner, but also coats and other items of clothing, take-home bags of food, a wrapped gift and several books for each child, and of course, a visit from Santa Claus.
By Carole Gorney


LGBT WEDDING EXPO
  ‘We love to help people shine’
ArtsQuest Center’s Blast Furnace Room hosted the Lehigh Valley’s first LGBT Wedding Expo recently. The LGBT Business Council teamed up with the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce to host more than 40 businesses and vendors, each of which is celebrating the passing of marriage equality in Pennsylvania. Photo:
Visitors chat with vendors at the Lehigh Valley’s First LGBT Wedding Expo, hosted in the Blast Furnace Room at the ArtsQuest Center in Bethlehem.
By Jonna Ireland


LEHIGH UNIVERSITY
  ‘May peace prevail’
Lehigh University kicked off its annual Fall International Week with a flag parade. The week is run by the Global Union, which is a collaboration of more than 50 student clubs and organizations that promote global understanding and cultural awareness around campus. Photo: Students come together in front of the Lehigh University flagpole on the University Center front lawn while holding flags from an assortment of countries.
By Lisa Kocay


MORAVIAN COLLEGE
  Serving the community
Moravian College president’s oldest daughter Eliza Grigsby serves dessert to Bethlehem native George Lowery. The BASD student was volunteering at the annual Moravian College Holiday Meal and was accompanying her father, Bryon Grigsby, at the community event.
By Tim Gilman

COMMUNITY
  Three Kings Day attracts all ages
Joscelyn Rose holds a gift from King Balthasar, portrayed by William Cintron of Holy Infancy Church in Bethlehem. The Three Kings celebration at SteelStacks recently is a popular Hispanic event.
By Tim Gilman


THIS WEEK IN BETHLEHEM SPORTS
  Soccer Scholar Athletes honored
Lehigh Valley Soccer Scholar Athletes Brian Heckman of Whitehall and Abigail Cerciello of Southern Lehigh, above, hold their plaques after the annual banquet which recognizes the top academic soccer players of the region. Rodney and Susan Heckman stand with their son while Lori and John Cerciello stand with their daughter in the Northampton Memorial Community Center on January 11.
By Tim Gilman

OTHER STORIES
Bethlehem: BAPL book sales top $56,000 for 2014
Bethlehem: HOM retireee Vincent Riestra honored
Bethlehem: 2015’s first snow
Bethlehem Township: Wards need retooling
Northampton County: Gracedale’s status better, but not great
Northampton County: Glitch halts healthcare coverage

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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January 21, 2015

COVER STORY
  The folk art of Scherenschnitte
Nancy Shelly created this self-portrait for the Bethlehem Fine Arts Commission Show. The commission invites an assortment of Bethlehem residents to participate. “I don’t do representational figures, and I didn’t know what I was going to do or how I was going to do it,” Shelley said. “This piece took lots of planning.”
By Joanna Ireland


PEOPLE
  Area resident celebrates century
and current resident at the King’s Daughters Home, is surrounded by immediate family for a  photo session during her recent birthday party. Sitting next to Gertude are her son Tom Smull and her oldest sister Betty Sterrett, 97, from Cape Cod. Standing behind the birthday celebrant are her three daughters: Louise Smull Negley, of Maine; Maggie Smull Hopper from South Carolina; and Mary Smull Arguelles, of Reading. Some 50 family and friends attended the milestone celebration for “Gertie,” as she is affectionately known. Gertrude, the first centenarian in the Smull family, was born Nov. 25, 1914 and lived on High Street in Bethlehem. She quietly marked her milestone birthday several days later in the West Market Street personal care home where she resides. She is a lifelong member of West Side Moravian Church and a graduate of Moravian Academy and also the Bethlehem Business College. According to Gertie’s daughter, Louise Smull Negley, “Mrs. Smull attributes her long life to her Christian faith.”
By Tim Gilman


ANOTHER VIEW
  Ed’s World
By Ed Courrier


PEOPLE
  Robert Spillman honored at luncheon
Robert “Bob” A. Spillman is surprised by friends and longtime associates as he enters the Blast Furnace Room with his daughter, Sarah Spillman-Bryar. “I thought until 10 minutes ago I was going to the office to meet the partners,” says a grinning honoree.
By Nate Jastrzemski


BUSINESS
  13th bridal expo-something for everyone
Jolene Fritchey from the Village Bake Shoppe, talks cake with Vanessa McWhite, of Allentown, bride Arielle Brown, of Catasauqua, groom Sean Rodriguez, and mother of the bride, Fayette Brown, of Catasauqua. “I’m just the voice,” says Fritchey, in her third year representing the bakery at the expo.
By Joanna Ireland


CLASSROOM
  Sharing the love of reading
Our Lady of Perpetual Help School opened its doors to area educators, administrators and professionals for “National Young Readers’ Day” recently. Guests read selections from favorite books and discussed the importance of literacy in their lives.  Above: Kindergarten student Jason Frederick (seated left) is all ears as his grandfather, DeSales University baseball coach Tim Neiman, chats with Frederick’s class about sports and the importance of being good readers.
By Diane Pelaggi


COMMUNITY
  A gift from the heart
When Natasha Velez of Bethlehem asked her daughter Anaya, a student at Leigh Valley Academy, who she wanted to help during the holidays with the money collected in her change jar all year, the young girl suggested giving the money to an organization that cares for people who have cancer. This hit home for Natasha, who lost her own father to brain cancer when she was 10. They decided to make the donation to St. Luke’s Cancer Center. Photo: St. Luke’s surgical oncologist Dr. Darius Desai accepts the piggy bank from Anaya Velez and her cousin, Aliyah Colon.

THIS WEEK IN BETHLEHEM SPORTS
  ‘Canes get by Becahi
You can say that Chad Landis exhaled a sigh of relief following last Friday’s 60-58 victory over Bethlehem Catholic. That’s because despite Becahi suffering through a 3-11 season, Landis knew that records don’t matter when it comes to city rivalries.
By Pete Car


OTHER STORIES
State: School funding study started
Lehigh County: Osborn slected board chair
Bethlehem: Library book sale opens Jan. 28
Bethlehem: City, AttsQuest enhancing safety
Bethlehem: Local AAUW chapter celebrates 85th
Hellertown: Council approves garbage fee
Northampton County: Grand jury cites Easton school district
Emmaus: Former resident working on Eagle
News& Views: Dent returns to Congress
News&Views: McNeill sowrn in for second term
News&Views: Investigating attorney general
News&Views: 2014 workhoreses, showhorses and no-show horses

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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January 28, 2015
COVER STORY
  Friends, peers mourn DiGiacinto’s passing
Known as a watchdog whose interest in running the city transcended political biases, David DiGiacinto was elected to city council in 2009 and resigned his seat when he was elected controller in 2013. DiGiacinto, 61, died at his home Sunday morning.
By Nate Jastrzemski







LEHIGH VALLEY
  Free community college?
Earlier this month, President Barack Obama proposed to make the first two years of community college “free for everybody who is willing to work for it.” He said states would provide a quarter of the funding and the remaining 75 percent of the cost would be covered by the federal government.
By Nate Jastrzemski and Ron Gower


COMMUNITY
  Exchange Club brightens Christmas Day
Fountain Hill Exchange Club members made their annual visit to Saint Luke's Hospital Christmas morning. Every year members and Fountain Hill police officers invite Santa along to visit sick children. This year, six children enjoyed a visit from Santa. “Being in the hospital is rough on children, especially at Christmas time and hope they will be going home soon,” said club member Ned Fink. Photo: Officer Anthony Cruz, Mike Redding, Santa (Jeff Fink), Ned Fink and Officer Jose Vasquez.
Contributed photo


PEOPLE
  Eagle fanatic looks to 2015
Despite a winning season of 10 and 6, the Eagles failed to make the playoffs. Local fans such as the Richard Thomas family in Northeast Bethlehem continue to have faith in the future of the Philadelphia team. “They have a good coach who is focused and they’re gonna get there sooner or later, “ said Richard Thomas, who has been an Eagle fanatic since his father got him started at an early age.
By Tim Gilman

MARTIN LUTHER KING DAY
  Marking Dr. King’s birthday
Left: Frankie West, president of the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Civil Rights Movement march, leads the annual commemorative event Jan. 19 in South Bethlehem from the Bethel Lodge Order of Elks to Martin Luther King Park for a customary observance of Dr. King’s birthday. West, a Bethlehem Township resident who has been involved in the annual event since he was about seven years old, sings “We shall overcome” as he walks with his two grandsons, Samad and Al-Zahir Thorne. The Liberty HS Grenadier Band color guard was also at the front of the parade honoring Dr. King.
By Tim Gilman


  ‘The call to serve’
Moravian College hosted a memorial breakfast Jan. 19 honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with more than 50 people in attendance. Joining Moravian staff and students were fifth graders from the nearby William Penn ES, principal Nathan Stannard teachers and some parents. Photo: William Penn ES fifth grade students Anastasia Ramirez, Jalysa Rivera and Mykayla Stark enjoy a hearty breakfast.
By Dana Grubb


BETHLEHEM
  ‘Be an agent of change’
In recent months protests across the nation against police brutality and racial bias have underscored the need for a national dialog regarding law enforcement. To meet that need and in anticipation of the appearance of acclaimed civil rights lawyer and advocate Michelle Alexander at Lehigh University Jan. 28, the Bethlehem Public Library organized a panel discussion called “A Public Conversation: Race, Crime and Justice,” on Jan. 14 at the library. Photo: Liberty HS teacher Gail Nolf urges fellow audience members to take action in response to the panel discussion.
By Dorothy Glew



ST LUKE’S NURSING SCHOOL
  130 years of excellence
When Dr. William Estes established the St. Luke’s School of Nursing in 1884, he modeled it after the nursing school at Bellevue Hospital in New York, N.Y.  At Bellevue, he observed superior nursing service and generally superior patient treatment compared with other New York City hospitals.  At the time, St. Luke’s was the fourth hospital in the country to establish a school of nursing. Photo: Dr. William Estes (front, center) poses with his associates and the St. Luke’s School of Nursing, Class of 1886.
Contributed photo

THIS WEEK IN BETHLEHEM SPORTS
  A historic run
It has unquestionably been a historic season for Freedom wrestling. Sitting at 24-0 following weekend victories over Easton and Liberty concluded an undefeated regular season for the Patriots. But despite what they’ve accomplished, the Patriots still have more to do as they enter the District 11 3A team tournament Thursday night.
By Pete Car

FOCUS
  Snow and plenty of snow geese
It’s only been about a month since winter officially arrived, but it’s been a strange one thus far in the Lehigh Valley. It appeared we would be inundated with snow by now when 5.17 inches of wet snow fell Thanksgiving eve and the Farmer’s Almanac was predicting a winter to rival the one we experienced last year.
By Bud Cole

OTHER STORIES
Bethlehem: Habitat dedicates new home
Bethlehem: Valley mayors discuss rail service
Northampton County: Stationary become issue for DAs office
Northampton County: Third citizens’ class passes
Northampton County: Former worker awarded damages
Lehigh Valley: Tips for safe snow shoveling

WEEKLY FEATURES
Around town community calendar
Police logs
Area obituaries
Center for Animal Health and Welfare
Volunteers
Student profiles
High school news reports

The Bethlehem Press online
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February 4, 2015

BETHLEHEM
  ‘A wonderful gift’
Parked in front of St. Anne’s Roman Catholic Church, the horse-drawn caisson carrying the flag draped casket of City Controller David DiGiacinto prepares to join the funeral procession to Holy Savior Cemetery. Several of DiGiacinto’s long-time friends arranged this military honor for DiGiacinto, who was a graduate of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point.
By Bernie O’Hare

COMMUNITY
  Coping with snow
Brinkley keeps an eye on the outdoor commotion caused by the  recent snowfall in the neighborhood of  the Tom Sarley home in Bethlehem.
By Tim Gilman


CLASSROOM
  ‘Buddy’ program in 17th year
Our Lady of Perpetual Help School kindergarten and eighth grade students paired up again this year as part of the school’s buddy program. The arrangement provides responsibility and leadership opportunities for the older students. Younger students get an eighth grade buddy to call their own for the whole school year. Photo: Our Lady eighth grade student Ryan Irr enjoys coloring and conversation with his kindergarten buddy, Rocco Silvestri. “It’s a cool experience and a privilege to be paired with a little buddy,” explains Irr. “I hope Rocco gets a lot out of our time together. I know I will.”
By Dianne Pelaggi

THIS WEEK IN BETHLEHEM SPORTS
  Hawks win 3A duals
It turns out the move from 2A to 3A wasn’t really that much different for Bethlehem Catholic’s wrestling team this year.
The Golden Hawks kept that theme going Saturday evening at Freedom High School, stomping their way through the competition en route to a 48-13 victory over Easton in the District 11 3A team championship. Photo: Mike Labriola and the Hawks won the 3A district dual title after switching over from 2A last year. Now they advance to states and look to make history.
By Peter Car/Nancy Scholz

FOCUS
  Once again, the circus comes to town
I vividly remember my very first circus experience. It was the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus three-ring big-top circus. Everything was so colorful and the acrobatic acts were so spectacular and engaging. I was entranced from the very first moment the show began. A circus just wouldn’t be as exciting if you didn’t have some great music to go with it. Heart-warming melodies, toe-tapping rhythms, and fast, furious musical passages show off the skill of the orchestra as well as the circus performer.
By Diane Wittry

OTHER STORIES
Bethlehem: Full-day kindergarten a go district-wide
Bethlehem: Elias wins another round in never-ending case
Bethlehem Water Authority: News offices, new plan see daylight
Bethlehem: Lehigh University leads regional consortium
Bethlehem: ‘Topping off’ at Moravian Village
Bethlehem Township: Board urged to repeal park gun ban
Bethlehem Township: EMS team gets St. Luke’s ‘Golden Boot’
Lehigh County: Med collection boxes a success
Fountain Hill: March of Dimes honors St. Luke’s staff members

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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February 11, 2015
COVER STORY
  Love. Military style
On Valentine’s Day, we celebrate special people in our lives. Flowers, candy, jewelry, dinner out on the town. It’s the one day of the year dedicated to romance and of course, love. For a U.S. Air Force fighter pilot and an American Red Cross Donut Dolly, their romance started on the other side of the world in Southeast Asia, during the Vietnam War. Lehigh Valley residents John and Kit Cotton share a lifetime of adventure, travel and true love: Love for each other, love for others and love for their country. Their story could easily be turned into a motion picture and Kit’s got 45 photo albums to prove it.
By Jennifer LoConte

STATE
  Measles spread into Pa.
The outbreak of measles across the country is spreading into Pennsylvania.
The disease was believed to have been eradicated in the United States in 2000, thanks to routine vaccinations. But it has begun to crop up again after parents became wary that the inoculations may hurt their children and refused to have them vaccinated.
By Chris Parker


PEOPLE
  ‘From Darkness to Light’
Hellertown author Larry Deibert is fascinated by the supernatural. “I guess horror, paranormal and time travel are my favorite things to do,” Deibert said in a recent interview. Like his three or four previous works, including the locally based “Christmas City Vampire,” his new novel, “From Darkness to Light,” revolves around supernatural events. He describes it as a “Christian paranormal” work.
By Julia Swan


BUSINESS
  Chocolate train leaves Valentine’s Day taste
Megan Malavolta, a sales associate at the Seasons shop in downtown Bethlehem, holds a tray of samples from a unique chocolate cake made with olive oil and balsamic vinegar from the Main Street taproom, which participated the Chocolate Trail this past Saturday. The annual downtown event sponsored by the Downtown Business Association of the Bethlehem Area Chamber of Commerce featured more than 20 restaurants and shops with sweet treats for $20 passport bearers to taste. The popular event kicked off Bethlehem’s Week of Romance which culminates on Valentine’s Day, Feb. 14.
By Tim Gilman


COMMUNITY
  Happy faces
The sixth annual Christmas Celebration hosted by the Bethlehem Women of Excellence put smiles on the faces of some 500 children. Photo: Women in Excellence volunteers Mamie Williams, Rose Mincy and Prudence Burhell man the hot dog station in the Broughal MS cafeteria.
By Tim Gilman

BETHLEHEM
  Co-op inviting new partners
Amid the Battle of the Pantry, in which Big Box stores vie with national retailers to control our shopping habits while local farms and organic growers retain the interests of the health-conscious, one group in Bethlehem has been working diligently to plan its own future. Photo: Co-op Board President Santiago Rivera asks the audience members to keep an eye out for co-op participation at any number of public events.
By Nate Jastrzemski

CLASSROOM
  ‘There is no coming back’
Ryan Halligan of Essex Junction, Vt., was just 13 when he committed suicide. The victim of vicious bullying, Ryan endured years of humiliation by his peers, both in the classroom and online. Despite a loving family, the humiliation proved to be too much for Ryan, and he took his own life. Ryan’s father, John Halligan, visited Bethlehem’s Nitschmann MS recently to share his son’s story.
By Dawn Nixon

THIS WEEK IN BETHLEHEM HISTORY
  Our heritage in plain sight
In 1986, the Wilbur Mansion and Masonic Temple property was placed on the Old Fountain Hill National Register. At present, members of the Bethlehem Temple Association are negotiating the sale of the property, which includes the visually iconic Mansion and Temple buildings – and the rich unseen heritage that made South Bethlehem history.
By Ken Raniere


LEHIGH VALLEY
  A spirit-free holiday mixer
Apollo Grill employee Alysia Benson serves some Candy Cane Lemonade to Healthworks employee Florence Kern, a Northampton resident. Apollo Grill’s spirit free drink was declared the winner, garnering 31 out of 88 votes cast.
By Dana Grubb

THIS WEEK IN BETHLEHEM SPORTS
  Hawks take third place
Bethlehem Catholic’s journey towards an unprecedented fifth straight state championship in wrestling came to an end over the weekend at the Giant center in Hershey. The Hawks, for the first-time since February of 2011, found themselves on the wrong side of the win column, succumbing to District 7 power Franklin Regional 30-26 in the PIAA 3A semifinals last Friday night.
By Peter Car

OTHER STORIES
Bethlehem: Council pays tribute to late controller
Bethlehem: City seeks new controller
Bethlehem: Ticket fees to increase
Lehigh Valley: A spirit-free holiday mixer
Fountain Hill: Hallman seeks to better borough’s image
Saucon Valley: Kindergarten registration may soon be Sept. 1

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February 18, 2015

THIS WEEK IN BETHLEHEM SPORTS
  Hawks win EPC title
The East Penn Conference girls basketball final between Bethlehem Catholic and Allentown Central Catholic was the game coaches, players, and fans had been waiting for all season. And after a 45-42 nail-biting victory for the Hawks, Becahi has the honor of being the last champion in the LVC and now the first champion in the EPC. Photo: The Bethlehem Catholic girls basketball team won the last Lehigh Valley Conference title and now became the first East Penn Conference champs. For more photos, see bethlehem.thelehighvalleypress.com.
By Katie McDonald/Photos by Rob Merchant


COVER STORY
  Missing the boat
Most of our nation’s schools use letter grades to measure students’ performance levels. With a grade of D-plus, a new index on early-childhood education indicates the United States and Pennsylvania have much room for improvement. Based on the Early Education Index, 40 states received a grade of C-minus or lower. Pennsylvania’s overall score was 67.1 points out of 100. The Index’s top performer with a B-plus, or 89.5 points, was the District of Columbia.
By Carol Smith/Illustration by Ed Courrier

RELATED STORY
  State report card released; Pa. places 8th overall
A new Quality Counts 2015 report card takes a fresh approach to grading the nation’s education policy. With a focus on outcomes rather than policy and processes, the State of the State’s grading report issues an overall grade of C, or 74.3 points out of 100, to the nation. Pennsylvania schools received an overall grade of B-minus, which placed it eighth in the nation.
By Carol Smith






BETHLEHEM
  Foundation awards local grants
R.K. Laros foundation trustee Laura Bennett Shelton presents a $20,000 donation from the foundation to Public Relations Manager Liza Holzinger and Executive Director Josh Berk. This presentation brought total contributions by the Foundation in support of the “Room to Grow” capital project to $88,704.
By Dana Grubb


MILESTONES
  Earl Laub: A garment maker’s best friend
In 1953 Earl Laub was a 20-year-old weaver at the Marvel Maid Manufacturers at 370 Conestoga St. in Bethlehem. That year the International Ladies’ Garment Workers’ Union (ILGUW) identified Laub as someone who knew how to get along with everyone. He was likable, a quick learner and a great candidate for the union’s management training program.
By Karen Samuels


CLASSROOM
  Students serve breakfast
The eighth grade class at Our Lady of Perpetual Help School topped off the recent Catholic School’s Week by giving thanks to parishioners who support the school throughout the year. “It’s one of our favorite activities,” says eighth grade teacher Ann Chiappinelli. “I get very positive feedback about our kids being helpful, respectful and polite – and that makes my day.” Photo: Frank and June Castellano with grandson Braeden Farrell of Bethlehem and Jim and Nancy Moser of Easton with grandson Alex Garrido of Bethlehem.
By Diane Pelaggi


LEHIGH VALLEY
  Wear Red for Women: Celebrating area pioneers
According to the American Heart Association, one in three women’s deaths is due to heart disease and stroke each year. In 2003, the AHA and the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute took acton against a disease claiming the lives of nearly 500,000 American women each year - disease women were not paying attention to. The National Wear Red Day was born and is held on the first Friday in February every year to raise awareness about heart disease being the number one killer of women. Photo: Attending the Wear Red for Women Day at Lehigh Valley Health Network are: back row, left to right, Gregory Chin, Dr. Raymond Singer, Dr. Deborah Sundlof, Dr. Timothy Misselbeck, James Chrin and Dr. Ronald Freudenberger; front row, left to right, Grace Miller, Dolores Schumann, Robin Mathias and Sandra Wolf.
By Debbie Galbraith

OTHER STORIES
Bethlehem: End of year budget adjustments made
Bethlehem: Neighborhood to be redistricted
Bethlehem: First sae of year productive for BAPL
South Bethlehem: Charter Arts project hits the roof
Bethlehem Township: Monthly department reports
Lehigh Valley: Penn State offers writing project opportunities

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February 25, 2015

COVER STORY
  Fastnacht  treats
Tina Hanuschak does two bakery tasks at once during a busy Fastnacht morning Feb. 17 as she takes care of phone inquiries and pulls a cart of glazed doughnuts from the elevator which regularly transports the baked goods from the bakery in the basement. Tina and her husband Scott are co-owners of Bethlehem’s Vallos bakery, which dates back in her family to 1926. She added that the fastnachts are a “fluffy” yeast doughnut recipe originated by her grandfather Nicholas Skoutelas.
By Tim Gilman and Dorothy Glew

LEHIGH VALLEY
  Racing contest begins
Last weekend’s Daytona 500, NASCAR’s season-opening race, is just in time for the “start your engines” command, sign-ups are underway for the Times News 2015 Auto Racing Challenge. At the end of the 37-race season, one contestant will win a chance at a local grand prize of a new vehicle from Rentschler Chrysler Jeep Dodge in Slatington.
By Jarrad Hedes



BETHLEHEM
  Luck of the Irish
“We’re close to the million dollar mark!” says Liza Holzinger, public relations manager for the Bethlehem Area Public Library  The library raised $3,762 in 1977 with its first book sales. Photo: BAPL book sale volunteer Carol DeMets assists Forks Township resident Karen Parella at the January book sale. “I come all of the time and I love it,” Parella said.
By Dana Grubb


HELLERTOWN
  Cookie sellers defy cold
Girl Scout cookie buyer Shelley Barchanowitz-Goldberg of Hellertown purchases baked treats from Troop 8013 outside the Hellertown Post  Office. Bundled up for the recent below-freezing spell of wintry weather are Girl Scouts Ava Kalember and Olivia Kacerik and their troop leader Natalie Faroun, who supervises cookie sales.
By Tim Gilman

ANOTHER VIEW
  Why Wolf’s ‘moratorium’ will fail
Governor Tom Wolf did not impose a “moratorium” on Pennsylvania’s death penalty. He has no such authority, and he knows that. The governor was properly advised by Judge Timothy K. Lewis, former U.S. Court of Appeals Judge, that there exists no authority in the office of Pennsylvania governor to declare a moratorium or suspend the death penalty. What the governor did was to grant a reprieve to one death row inmate who was scheduled for an imminent execution.

By John Morganelli



THIS WEEK IN BETHLEHEM SPORTS
  Becahi wins D-11 team title
The message that Andrew Dunn sent the Pennsylvania wrestling world over the weekend was pretty clear—it’s going to be tough to beat him. Dunn displayed those sentiments with his actions following a dominating display at the District 11 3A wrestling championships. Photo: Adam Soldridge was one of five Becahi champs crowned last week.
By Peter Car

OTHER STORIES
Bethlehem: Council welcome new restaurant
Bethlehem: Forestry successes, pipeline headaches face water authority
Bethlehem Twp.: Board terminates police officer
Fountain Hill: Council suggests late fee leniency
Northampton County: Bipartisan effort to limit spending fails
Lehigh Valley: Scout leaders, alumni honored for service

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March 4, 2015

COVER
  To vax or not to vax
While the vast majority of parents in the United States have their children inoculated against measles, a small but growing number are saying no to vaccines.
Those who refuse the immunization cite concerns about the vaccines causing illness, allergic reactions or neurological problems. Government agencies and most doctors, however, say the risk is minimal, and is overshadowed by the risks of contracting the disease.
By Chris Parker


BUSINESS
  Bridal Showcase fills Hotel Bethlehem
The 10th annual Winter Bridal Showcase at the Historic Hotel Bethlehem attracted hundreds of brides-to-be with their future spouses and parents, mostly mothers, to the three-hour ticketed event on January 18.in the Christmas City’s downtown. The Bridal expo featured some 40 wedding vendors which included bakers, photographers, hair stylists, make-up artists, travel consultants, wedding gown models, musicians, DJs,  jewelers, and wedding planners. Gourmet hors d’oeuvres and refreshments from the hotel kitchen and a large bridal couple ice-sculpture was a popular centerpiece in one of several Hotel Bethlehem’s elegant dining rooms converted for the prestigious bridal fair. Above: Engaged couple Joshua Smelko and Cassandra Rosario of Bethlehem listen to pastry chef Colleen Laky from Piece ‘a Cake in Macungie during the Bridal Showcase at the Hotel Bethlehem. The 10th annual winter bridal show featured some 40 vendors with a variety of wedding offerings.
By Tim Gilman


CLASSROOM
  Nitchmann team takes 2nd place
shaan Lal, a 7th grade student at Eyer MS in Emmaus and  Daniel Li,  a 6th grade student at  Nitschmann MS took first and second place honors at the 31st Annual Lehigh Valley MATHCOUNTS ® at Springhouse MS, Allentown, recently. Photo:
Nitschmann MS team members Ruiqi Wang, Julia Zheng, Chris Secula and Daniel Li with coach Nadine Novatnak and Kevin Campbell, president of Lehigh Valley PSPE.
Press photo courtesy Barry Isett & Associates


CLASSROOM
  Marking the 100th day
Donegan ES staff and students marked the first one hundred days of the 2014-2015 school year recently by dressing like they were 100 years old. White hair, canes and walkers, hair curlers, false noses and old style dresses were among the many disguises employed by those who participated. One teacher even donned Depends. As part of the celebration, students discussed topics relevant to aging, such as what they might be doing as centenarians and how they would be feeling. Reading specialist Karen Kaar said that the top three costumes would receive a prize, which Donegan Principal Sonia Vazquez kiddingly said might include a visit to a day spa at a home for senior citizens. Photo: Reading specialist Karen Kaar and ESL teacher Lorie Schwarzbach gathered with a bunch of their ‘senior citizen’ students from the third grade. Students pictured are Alyssa Nonnemacher, Mikail Trinidad, Gionni Rosado Gianalys Cardenas, Kyla Shears and Azari Irvin.
By Dana Grubb

THIS WEEK IN BETHLEHEM SPORTS
  Becahi girls claim District title
It seems as though Bethlehem Catholic girls basketball coach Jose Medina always has a bottom line.
And on Saturday, that bottom line of responsiveness won the Hawks the District 11 Class AAA championship over Allentown Central Catholic, 44-31 at Freedom High School. It was the Hawks third-straight District 11 3A title.
By Katie McDonald

  Becahi wrestlers claim Regional title
When things were all said and done for Bethlehem Catholic’s wrestling team at the Northeast Regional 3A championships last weekend, the Hawks may have exceeded their own expectations.
Becahi ran away with the team title for the second-straight week, crowned three champions, but more importantly, qualified 11 wrestlers to this week’s PIAA state championships in Hershey.
By Petr Car

OTHER STORIES
Bethlehem: George Yasso new city controller
Bethlehem Township: Board to hire pipeline consultant
Bethlehem Township: Board deadlocked on increased benefits
Bethlehem Township: Going through the salt
Northampton County: The good, the Bad and the Ugly
Northampton County: Brown warns of tough times
Northampton County: Emmaus lawyer new solicitor
Lehigh Valley: State Troopers recieve service awards

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March 11, 2015


COVER STORY
  Connecting classroom and community
A Team NOVA classroom works on constructing boxes for the sneaker drive and creates sneaker artwork. The sneakers and shoes collected by students will be donated to the Nike Reuse-A-Shoe program and New Bethany Ministries. Students will create sneaker artwork to represent every donor to the sneaker and shoe drive, which will then be displayed outside of Team NOVA classrooms.
By Ellie McGuire


SOUTH BETHLEHEM
  Lehigh to get new police station
When two police chiefs, a fire chief and Mayor Bob Donchez ask for something, it’s hard to say no. At its Feb. 25 meeting, Bethlehem’s Zoning Hearing Board said yes. In a 5-0 vote, members granted a use variance that will allow Lehigh University to build a new police station at the site of the 100-year-old Windish hall, located at 321 E. Packer Ave.
By Bernie O’Hare

           
THIS WEEK IN BETHLEHEM SPORTS
  Hawks crown 2 state champs
After all was said and done for Bethlehem Catholic following the PIAA wrestling championships, the conclusion was evident that moving up to 3A was, and will remain, the right move for Golden Hawks going forward. Becahi crowned two state champions, placed five wrestlers and came home with the runner-up trophy in the team title race as a winter of competition concluded Saturday night at the Giant Center in Hershey.
By Peter Car



CLASSROOM
  Backing up Foreigner
Directed by vocal department chair David Macbeth, the Lehigh Valley Charter HS for the Arts Touring Choir is fast becoming a go-to group for backing vocals when shows are booked at the Sands Bethlehem Event Center.
By Dana Grubb

OTHER STORIES
Bethlehem: Several Main St. upgrades planned
Bethlehem: Finance committee plans debt reduction
Bethlehem Area SD: Trainers argument continues
Fountain Hill: Council at odds over harsh words
Lehigh County: Advisory team commissioned
Lehigh Valley: The declining importance of SAT scores
Northampton County: Gradedale update: Repairs needed
Northampton County: Zembo new council clerk
South Bethlehem: Repairsin store for Fahy Bridge

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March 18, 2015
BREAKING NEWS
  Bethlehem Press top small PA weekly
For the second year in a row, the Bethlehem Press is the Sweepstakes winner in the Pa. News Association’s annual Keystone Competition capturing five first place awards and four second place honors. The winners and their entries are:
• Karen Samuels –Second place – Columns - Ivy Lee; Hall of Fame soccer players; Past visions of town hall
• Bernie O’Hare – First place – General news - 'We owe it to our kids'
• Bernie O’Hare, Nate Jastrzemski, Dawn Nixon – Second place – Ongoing news - Karen Dolan issue several stories are part of this package Begins with "What happened to our money?"
• Katya Hrichak (our summer intern) – First place – Series – Student loan crisis
• Carol Smith – First place – Business or consumer story – Keeping his dream alive
• Paul Willistein – Second place - Feature beat writing - Turtle Island Quartet, Nellie McKay; A life of art; Ninth annual ABEs salute LV Stage
• Nate Jastrezewmski – Second place – Photo story – The Freddys
• Paul Willistein – First place – Headline writing - 'Smaug' alert for 'The Hobbit'; Well, hello, Dali, at Baum School auction; In 'Heaven,' there is no bier
• Ed Courrier – First place – Graphic/photo illustrations - VA Wait List Scandal



COVER STORY
  Celebrating St. Patrick in the Christmas City
A pair of Goldendoodles are led by Jerry and Sue Hartle of Kutztown during the Celtic Doggie Parade along Main Street Sunday. The Golden retriever/poodle hybrids and their masters dressed up in green won the best dog and master look-alike award. More photos from the weekend appear on page A2.
By Tim Gilman


LEHIGH VALLEY
  Veterans education fair debuts
Army veteran David Canady of Emmaus listens to Melissa McCollum from the U.S. Dept. of Veterans Affairs during the first Academics for Veterans Educational Fair at Moravian College Feb. 28. “I’m here to get the word out that there are benefits available for veterans,” McCollum said.
By Tim Gilman

BLACK HISTORY MONTH
  Best of times, worst of times
With the zeal of a Baptist preacher, Dr. Michael Eric Dyson spoke to his audience at Moravian College’s Foy hall. Incidentally, Dr. Dyson is an ordained Baptist minister.
By Bernie O’Hare

  Where do we go from here?
Dr. Brian Alnutt, assistant professor of history at Northampton Community College, presented a Black History Month lecture at The Bethlehem Public Library. Martin L. King Jr.’s 1967 book, “Where Do We Go From Here?: Chaos or Community,” was the topic of discussion.
By Nathan Brathwaite








CLASSROOM
  ‘Hairspray’ opens Thursday
Freedom HS’s Theatre Company presents the musical “Hairspray” March 19, 20 and 21 at 7 p.m. and at a March 22 matinee at 2 p.m. in the school’s auditorium. Based on the 1988 John Waters film of the same name, “Hairspray” features music by Marc Shaiman and lyrics by Scott Whitman. Jennifer Wescoe directs the Freedom production, which includes a cast and crew of over 50 and orchestra accompaniment under the direction of Michael Moran. Contact the school at 610-867-5843 for tickets.
By Dana Grubb


  Moravian offers ‘Hello Dolly’
The Moravian Academy department of theater presented the musical “Hello Dolly” recently with performances Feb. 27 and 28 and March 1, in Dyer Auditorium on the school’s Merle-Smith Campus. Based on Thornton Wilder’s “The Matchmaker,” “Hello Dolly” features the music and lyrics of Jerry Herman. Moravian Academy’s performance was directed by Jarrod Yuskauskas and music director was Dr. Yvonne Robinson. Dr. Richard Fanning conducted the 15- piece orchestra.
By Dana Grubb


NEWS&VIEWS
  Celebrate government transparency
Imagine you are the parent of an infant who tragically died and you wanted to see the results of your baby’s autopsy, but you were denied access to those records.
Or ask yourself how – as a taxpayer in a Pennsylvania school district – you would respond to being denied access to district records of a severance package paid to a terminated public school administrator.
By Corinna Vecsey Wilson
Pa. Freedom of Information Coalition


THIS WEEK IN BETHLEHEM HISTORY
  Lehigh Canal Odyssey
On their way back to work after a hearty lunch, a number of graphic designers of The Morning Call art department stopped at Hess’s Department Store in Allentown and looked at the latest electronic devices for sale. One highly advertised item was a keyboard in front of a small television screen from which a thin cable was attached. At the end was a small oval object called a “mouse.” When it was moved, a “cursor” appeared on the screen. The saleslady called it a “personal computer.” It seemed a curiosity, which no one thought would amount to anything. That was back in 1985. What followed became known as the “dotcom” era of the Internet and the World Wide Web.
By Ken Raniere

THIS WEEK IN BETHLEHEM SPORTS
  Finally golden: Magnan takes first
Freedom High School senior, Sam Magnan, clinched the gold medal in the 500 freestyle at the PIAA State Swimming and Diving Championships last weekend at Bucknell University.
By Katie McDonald

FOCUS
  Deer grateful for winter’s end, too
The winter of 2014-’15 was a mighty cold one. Last month was the coldest for average February temperatures (18.9 degrees fahrenheit, 12 degrees below normal) in the Lehigh Valley since Feburary 1934 (16.6 degrees). Spring, which arrives March 20, can’t come too soon.
By Bud Cole

OTHER STORIES
Bethlehem Area SD: Cheap energy saves money
Bethlehem Township: Housenick project under wau
Fountain Hill: Exchange Club honors Liberty HS students
Hanover Township: ‘Snow’ job honored
Northampton County: Gaming board gets late start
Saucon Valley: Board considers facilities study

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March 25,  2015

COVER STORY
  Life saver given fond farewell
Bethlehem Emergency Medical Services members carry the casket of William Guth Jr. following a memorial service at Christ Church UCC this past Saturday. Family members and friends of the late Bill Guth exit from the Bethlehem church.
By Nate Jastrzemski/Tim Gilman/Dana Grubb

LEHIGH VALLEY
  Steve Schmitt: A diamond
Brash. Brilliant. Controversial. Colorful.
These are just some of the adjectives that could be used to describe alternative transportation advocate Steve Schmitt. But they would fail to come close to capturing this Lehigh Valley pioneer. One of the four Lehigh Valley horsemen: Jeff Parks brought us Arts Quest; Tony Hanna slowly but surely has transformed Bethlehem’s Southside; Alan Jennings has raised our poverty awareness. Schmitt made sure these other three always accommodated cyclists, pedestrians and the buses.
By Bernie O’Hare


BETHLEHEM
  Good-bye winter!
Cartoon by Ed Courrier/Photos by Tim Gilman


CLASSROOM
  Nitschmann students present ‘Willie Wonka’
The Nitschmann MS drama club presented the musical “Willy Wonka Jr.,” performing six shows in Feburary in the Nitschmann auditorium. “Willie Wonka” is based on the Roald Dahl children’s book “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” and features the music and lyrics of Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman. More than 100 cast and crew participated under the direction of Sarah Hriniak.
By Dana Grubb

THIS WEEK IN BETHLEHEM SPORTS
  A Bethlehem legend passes
Chuck Bednarik, one of the most iconic members of the Philadelphia Eagles and the NFL, passed away over the weekend at the age of 89. The Bethlehem native and Liberty High School graduate was known as one of the toughest players in the NFL during his 14 seasons (1949-1962) with the Eagles and was apart of two NFL championship teams, as well as being a first ballot member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1967.
By Peter Car

THIS WEEK IN FOCUS
  Hannibal Buress’ time has arrived
If you are unaware of who Hannibal Buress is, then you haven’t been looking. The 32-year-old stand- up comic has been honing his craft since he was 19-years-old and can be found seemingly everywhere these days. He’s the next big thing you may not have discovered yet.
By Deb Boylan

OTHER STORIES
State: Wolf boosts schools, juggles taxes
Bethlehem: Classic sell well at library sale
Bethlehem: Nitschmann project back in sight
Bethlehem: YWCA’s prom gown event March 28
Bethlehem Township: Flash flood site worries official
Bethlehem Township: February monthly reports
Lehigh County: Commissioners old to change county seal
Lehigh Valley: Zion UCC salutes Honorary First Defenders
Northampton County: Good Samaritan’s reward-Bullet to head

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April 1, 2015

COVER STORY
  Entering the city
On Palm Sunday, a group of men and women from El Shaddai Bethlehem Ministries, dressed in costumes, dramatized the biblical account of the event known as the Triumphal Entry. Ministry members welcomed the group by waving palm branches and shouting “Hosanna.” The crowd followed “Jesus” and “his disciples” from Stefko Boulevard and West Broad Street until they entered the Welcome Center at 529 East Broad St.
By Ruth Grady


BETHLEHEM
  Egg scramble
Bethlehem’s annual egg hunt on the lawn below Memorial Pool took place Saturday despite the cold weather. Some 200 children and their families came bundled up for the cold, many in hooded jackets or knit caps. The actual egg hunt part lasted less than 10 minutes, as the children scurried around picking up candy treats. The children were divided into three age groups from 3-8 years old.The event is sponsored and organized by the City of Bethlehem Recreation Bureau. The children left with lots of candy and smiles, especially those who won the large packaged chocolate Easter Bunnies. The top winners, one per age group, were: Korey Elliott, Grayson Szabo and Ragen Davre. 
By Tim Gilman

NORTHAMPTON COUNTY
  Brown: Dire times ahead for county
John Brown calls himself “lucky number seven” because he is Northampton County’s seventh executive since the inception of home rule. He made these remarks at his annual State of the County address, delivered recently at Northampton Community College to a room full of elected officials, government workers and businesspeople. Brown’s Lehigh County counterpart, Tom Muller was there, and Brown joked that he had offered Muller a coupon for two free vetoes. But other than that one brief respite of humor, Brown’s lengthy address was both dry and grim.
By Bernie O’Hare

ED’S WORLD
Graphic commentary by Ed Courrier


THE ARTS
  Stars of Bethlehem
Moravian Academy second-graders Tessa Francis, Emily Reynolds and Angelina Perruci stand in front of the a contemporary quilt hanging on a wall as a special part of the Stars of Bethlehem quilt exhibition at the Kemmerer Museum, which continues through April 5. The girls are among 39 second-graders who colored individual star squares with a personal illustration of what Bethlehem meant to each of them. The completed cloth square pieces were then quilted together on a background fabric by Beth Bacher, a Jim Thorpe teacher and quilting expert who guided the students in this remarkable project. A reception was held during the exhibit at the Kemmerer Museum for the students and their families.
By Tim Gilman


THE CLASSROOM
  All-City Orchestra concert
More than 140 of the finest musicians from the Bethlehem Area School District’s four middle schools displayed their talents for family and friends at the annual All City Middle School Orchestra Concert, in the Northeast MS auditorium. Two days of rehearsals prepared the young musicians, who were conducted by middle school instrumental music directors Adam Stoltz from Broughal, Christy Davies from East Hills, Daniel Zettlemoyer from Nitschmann and Brian Rupnik from Northeast. Broughal Principal Dr. Detrick McGriff guest conducted, leading the orchestra in “The Star Spangled Banner.” Photo: “Fortissimo,” reminds Nitschmann instrumental music director Daniel Zettlemoyer to the brass section, during the rehearsal of “Can Can.”
By Dana Grubb


THIS WEEK IN BETHLEHEM HISTORY
  Moravian Easter service brought tears
The Harper brothers, between 1857 and 1916, published the popular Harper’s Weekly magazine.  The magazine featured the most renowned authors, illustrators and cartoonists of the time.  In the March 31, 1888 issue, an article and illustration about the traditional Moravian Easter service appeared. The illustration, by W. A. Rogers, covered two pages and was so popular with the readers that it was common to find the illustration framed on the walls of their homes. The article accompanying the illustration was not credited, but most likely was written by Rogers as well.
By Karen M. Samuels

THIS WEEK IN BETHLEHEM SPORTS
  Hawk girls pace North
The trio of Nicole Lacherza, Maggie Melhem and Kalista Walters were three key seniors in Bethlehem Catholic’s district championship season and run in the PIAA Class AAA tournament. Photo: Bethlehem Catholic’s Nicole Lacherza, and her Hawk teammates, helped to lead the North girls to a win in the Via All-Star Classic.
By Todd Kress/Nancy Sholtzß

THIS WEEK IN FOCUS
  Enjoy a concert full of joy
Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony is such an amazing piece. It’s a work that transcends time, culture and economic differences. In Japan, they sing the main melody together in stadiums. This is a piece that focuses on brotherhood and  love for all mankind. They played it as the Berlin Wall was taken down in 1989.
By Diane Wittry

OTHER STORIES
Bethlehem: Mauch Chunk fire smelly, but non-threatening
Bethlehem: Council sides against pipeline
Bethlehem: Water board hopes to rout the Gypsies … moths that is
Bethlehem: Promise Neighbors seeks to help with jobs, education
Lehigh Valley: Mentor youth fishing day
Lehigh Valley: Healing through the arts
Sotuh Bethlehemn: Lighting the future for safety

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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To subscribe:New start
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April 8, 2015



COVER STORY
  Grateful family readies benefit zumbathon

It started with a pain in Gabriel Pozo’s left shoulder. In 2010, he was 16 and a junior at Freedom HS, pushing carts part-time at Walmart. At work one day, he noticed the pain and, when he took a deep breath, felt another sharp pain.  Photo: Vilma Ravelo and son Gabriel Pozo, center, are set to host the second annual Zumbathon April 12 at the ArtsQuest Center at SteelStacks to raise funds for leukemia research. Ready to dance with them are Veronica Toro, Ian Chavez, Ione Pozo, Sardis Pozo and Ricky Mitman with Aryana, Chase and Logan Mitman.
By Jennifer Lader

BETHLEHEM
  Historic bookshop considers relocating
The Moravian Book Shop, located on Main Street across from Hotel Bethlehem, may just be the oldest continuously running book shop in the world. It is the oldest in this country. Owned by the Moravian Church, its profits help fund the pensions for their retired Moravian clergy. In addition to the actual book store, there’s a deli, candy store and a gift shop that sells the Moravian star that is so popular at Christmas time.
By Bernie O’Hare





EASTER
  Moravians rise early
Bundled up for the cool early morning temperature, musicians Caitlin Worrich, Matthew Kemmerer and Mary Ellen Kolman of the Bethlehem Area Moravian Trombone Choir lead the Sunrise Service at God’s Acre. The all-trombone choir dates back to 1754 in Bethlehem as the oldest musical organization of its kind in America playing continuously, according to Moravian historical records.
By Tim Gilman


EASTER
  Pilgrimage of the Cross
Jesus (Lauren Brita), carrying his own cross, is the focal point of the Good Friday walk through downtown Bethlehem. John (Jack Dittbrenner) eases the burden of the heavy wooden cross by assisting Jesus during the two-mile procession. The youth group from Christ Church UCC also put on a drama presentation of the Good Friday biblical events during the previous church service.
By Tim Gilman


BETHLEHEM
  BHA’s youngest honoree
Bethlehem Housing Authority Executive Director Clara A. Kendy reads the Community Service Award certificate and introduces honoree Jennifer Rodriguez during the Josefina Berrios Award ceremony. The event has been held every year since 1991 on the birthday, Jan. 28, of Berrios who was a dedicated BHA volunteer for whom the award was established in 1991 after her death. Rodriguez, a BHA Marvine community resident, is the youngest person to be recognized for outstanding volunteerism. Bethlehem housing agency’s deputy executive director Mark Iampietro leans on the podium after participating in the ceremony.
By Tim Gilman


SOUTH BETHLEHEM
  NMIH back on track
The work of a decade was halted in scandal when Northampton County District Attorney John Morganelli investigated the leadership and practices of the National Museum of Industrial History in 2012. But after nearly three years of uncertainty the Southside’s East Second Street site has received its first installation and completed three-fourths of its necessary refurbishment.
By Nate Jastrzemski


LEHIGH VALLEY
  Via’s March Madness
Via, a Lehigh Valley human services agency dedicated to children with special needs, conducted its own version of March Madness this month, under the roof of Northampton Community College’s Spartan Center. More than forty kids participated in an All-Star Basketball Clinic that went through some fundamentals, but was mostly just fun.
By Bernie O’Hare

SOUTH BETHLEHEM
  Bethlehem Steel’s rise and fall
A spring lecture series is offered to the public at the Penn State campus, 2809 Saucon Valley Road in Center Valley. On Feb. 11 Lehigh University Associate Professor and Chair Dr. John K. Smith spoke for an hour about the rise and fall of the Bethlehem Steel Corporation. A mixture of more than sixty students and interested public attended the talk.
By Karen Samuels


SPRING MUSICALS
  Becahi presents ‘Brigadoon’
Bethlehem Catholic HS’s theater department will present its spring musical, “Brigadoon,” April 10, 11, 17 and 18 at 7 p.m. and April 12 at 2 p.m. in the school auditorium. Directed and choreographed by Debbie Acampora, “Brigadoon” has a cast of nearly 50 performers and a 27-person crew and make-up artists, and is accompanied by a theater orchestra comprised of 22 students, alumni and parents. Photo: Rebecca Nixon (Fiona MacLaren) performs “Waiting for My Dearie” as the ensemble of girls listen to her explain her wait to find the right person to marry. Photo: Rebecca Nixon (Fiona MacLaren) performs “Waiting for My Dearie” as the ensemble of girls listen to her explain her wait to find the right person to marry.
By Dana Grubb


SOUTH BETHLEHEM HISTORY
  Moravians planted first seeds
This column is the first of a year-long series of columns, written by Ken Raniere and Karen M. Samuels, to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the incorporation of the Borough of South Bethlehem on Aug. 21, 1865. The series starts with the arrival of the Moravians in Bethlehem then will cover the history of South Bethlehem to the present day.
By Karen M. Samuels

NEWS/VIEWS
  ‘Our favorite son’s debut’
Judge Emil Giordano recently kicked off his campaign for the Pennsylvania Superior Court. He made his announcement at the cavernous Northampton Memorial Community Center amid dozens of empty pizza boxes. Photo: South Whitehall Township Manager Howard Kutzler, who is also the treasurer of the Northampton County GOP, was in his real home - Northampton - to wish Judge Giordano luck.
By Bernie O’Hare

THIS WEEK IN BETHLEHEM SPORTS
  Patriots look to stay unbeaten
It’s the type of start that Freedom was hoping for as they entered the 2015 season, and despite the odd weather preventing them from seeing time on the field, the Pates remain unbeaten in East Penn Conference action through early this week. By Peter Car

THIS WEEK IN FOCUS
  An essay contest, a book and an old oak
The Bertsch-Hokendauqua-Catasauqua Watershed Association (BHCWA), of which I’m a founding member, is dedicated to protect, improve and sustain water quality.
BHCWA is sponsoring its second annual scholarship essay contest for high school seniors, including those at Catasauqua High School and Northampton Area High School, who reside in the watershed and will attend college.
By Bud Cole

OTHER STORIES
Bethlehem: Zoners approve apartments for East Elizabeth
Bethlehem Township: Traditions pushes for construction
Hanover Township: Adult day care coming soon
Hanover Township: Supers stumped by Monocacy dam
Lehigh Valley: Leaders explore wealthy-poor divide
Northampton County: Gaming Board expects $1.6 million
School: LVPA chorus performs at Valley car show

WEEKLY FEATURES
Around town community calendar
Police logs
Area obituaries
Center for Animal Health and Welfare
Volunteers
Student profiles
High school news reports

The Bethlehem Press online
Where to buy the Bethlehem Press
To subscribe:New start
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April 15, 2015

COVER STORY
  Distributing Dignity
Bras, tampons, pads and panty liners are female necessities that come at a high cost. For the women who cannot afford these supplies, Distributing Dignity is there to provide them. Photo: Joanie Balderstone and Rebecca McIntire are the two founders of Distributing Dignity. They started collecting new bras and feminine hygiene products in 2010.
By Lisa Kocay


FOUNTAIN HILL
  Easter egg hunt
Sisters Maya and Sofia Nieto have plenty to smile about after the Fountain Hill egg hunt April 4 at the Stanley Avenue Playground. The sisters were lucky to win major prizes in addition to the regular Easter candy that covered the fields. Their parents, long-time Fountain Hill residents Miguel and Tara Nieto, were happy for their children who will likely remember this year’s event more than others.
By Tim Gilman


STEELSTACKS
  Hunting Peeps
Kids from across the Lehigh Valley surge forward to hunt down hidden boxes of Peeps treats during the Peeps Hunt festivities on Easter Day at Arts- Quest’s SteelStacks.
By Tim Gilman


SPRING MUSICALS
  LVCHSA presents 'Blood Brothers'
The Lehigh Valley Charter HS for the Arts’ Theatre Department will present the Willy Russell musical “Blood Brothers” April 15, 16, 17 and 18 at 7 p.m. and April 19 at 2 p.m. in the school’s black box theatre located at 675 East Broad St. Photo: The cast of “Blood Brothers” romps in the number “Kids’ Game.”
By Dana Grubb


KENNER LECTURE
  Emphatic behavior is uplifting to all
Lehigh University’s annual Kenner Lecture on Cultural Understanding and Tolerance was delivered Feb. 3 by husband and wife Nicholas D. Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn. In the presentation, “Why Students Should Care about the World and Change It,” the couple spoke eloquently about human needs across the world, about small acts that can have a big impact, and about extraordinary people who have made remarkable changes in their own lives or the lives of others. Photo:
Sheryl WuDunn relates the story of a young woman who succeeded against great odds and now wants to help others.
By Dorothy Glew

THIS WEEK IN BETHLEHEM HISTORY
  William Leibert’s vineyard garden
In the early days of Bethlehem, all one had to do to reach a farm or garden was pick a street, walk a block or two and there you were. One thing’s for sure, small scale agriculture was not a rarity within city limits. In fact, nearly all residents owned their own field or plot from which they could raise fresh produce.
By Jason Rehm


CLASSROOM
  Our Lady teaches through the Crucifixion
Eighth grade students at Our Lady of Perpetual Help School in Bethlehem participated in Living Stations of the Cross during Holy Week, re-enacting the passion, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. More than 30 students took part in the dramatic presentation - an annual tradition at the school for more than 27 years. Above: “The Living Stations provides the viewer with a deeper and more personal appreciation for the passion, death, and resurrection of Christ,” said Harry Reese, Our Lady principal.
By Diann Pelaggi

THIS WEEK IN BETHLEHEM SPORTS
  Bethlehem’s Makovsky making it in UFC
Zach Makovsky never made it to the PIAA wrestling tournament in Hershey during his time at Bethlehem Catholic. He eventually worked his way from walk-on status on Drexel’s wrestling team into a scholarship in the program.
By Pete Car

THIS WEEK IN FOCUS
  Exceptional Patients
Dr. Bernie S. Siegel, best-selling author of “Love, Medicine and Miracles” and founder of Exceptional Cancer Patients, speaks on the “Psychology of Illness and the Art of Healing,” 7:30 p.m. April 22, Central Moravian Church, Main and Church streets, Bethlehem.
By Carole Gorney

OTHER STORIES
Bethlehem: Curtiss-Wright supplies 95 new hi-tech jobs
Bethlehem: Sketching in the spring sun
Bethlehem: City council gets 911 update tour
Bethlehem Township: Board OKs 2 union contracts
Fountain Hill: Parking issues abound
Lehigh Valley: Watch your speed in E-Z Pass lane
Lehigh Valley: Boscola law protects police, military
Northampton County: County to transport voting machines itself
Northampton County: County council establishes rainy day fund

WEEKLY FEATURES
Around town community calendar
Police logs
Area obituaries
Center for Animal Health and Welfare
Volunteers
Student profiles
High school news reports

The Bethlehem Press online
Where to buy the Bethlehem Press
To subscribe:New start
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April 22, 2015

COVER STORY
  ‘For the kids’
The final numbers of the BASD Mini-THON yearlong fundraising campaign for pediatric cancer are revealed at the conclusion of the closing ceremony at the dance marathon. A record $100,212.50 was raised jointly by Liberty and Freedom students. Additional large poster signs say “FOR THE KIDS” in recognition of the children who will benefit from the campaign against pediatric cancer.
By Tim Gilman and Josh Ledyard


LEHIGH VALLEY
  Devey led Moravian Academy for 17 years
Lifelong educator and former Moravian Academy Headmaster David J. Devey died at home in Moravian Village April 14. He was 85. Photo: A plaque at the front entrance to the Moravian Academy Upper School main building honors former headmaster David J. Devey for his many years of dedication and vision.
By Nate Jastrzemski


LEHIGH VALLEY
  What’s the biggest problem?
What are the biggest problems facing the Lehigh Valley?
This question sparked a myriad of answers from nearly 100 attendees at last week’s community forum – yet another event hosted at the Northampton Community College Fowler Family Southside Center. Photo: Dr. Harris Sokoloff, director of the Penn Project for Civil Engagement, leads discussion during the recent community forum.
By Alex Green


SPRING MUSICALS
  Notre Dame presents ‘A Tale of Two Cities’
The Notre Dame HS Theater Company will present the musical “A Tale of Two Cities” April 23 and 24 at 7:30 p.m. and April 25 at 2 and 7:30 p.m. Photo: Comprised of the men and women of Paris the ensemble performs the ending of “The Way It Ought to Be.”
By Dana Grubb

CHINESE NEW YEAR
  Students, hosts share custom
Exchange students and their host families celebrated the Chinese New Year recently at Wesleyan Methodist Church on Center Street in Bethlehem. The event, hosted by New Oasis International Education, Allentown Central Catholic HS and Bethlehem Catholic HS, and also attended by Pius X Catholic HS students, provided an opportunity for Chinese and American students to engage in a cultural exchange and perhaps stave off a bit of homesickness the exchange students might have felt. Photo: Bethlehem Catholic HS students Peter Haozhong Zheng and Jinjing Zhang enchant the audience with a traditional Lion Dance.
By Joanna Ireland


BUSINESS
  St. Luke’s among top 100 hospitals
St. Luke’s University Health Network President and CEO Richard A. Anderson, with red tie, holds award for 100 Top Hospitals nationwide during a March 27 ceremony in the packed auditorium on the Bethlehem campus. Frank Ford, president of St. Luke’s Allentown Hospital, and Carol Kuplen, chief operating officer of St. Luke’s University Hospital Bethlehem Campus and chief nursing officer, flank Anderson. At far right is Jean Chenoweth, senior vice president for performance improvement and the 100 Top Hospitals program run by Truven Health Analytics. St. Luke’s also received the 100 Top Hospitals Award in 1995 and 2001.
By Tim Gilman


NEWS&VIEWS
  The times, they are a changin’
’m back in the office after four years. Back at the same desk. And in the same chair.
My surroundings are nearly identical, except for maybe the color of the paint on the walls. The editorial staff is virtually the same. They’re still here, working each day to bring you the community news you’re looking for. Many of our freelancers have been writing columns and covering municipal beats since the very beginning.
By Kelly Lutterschmidt



THIS WEEK IN BETHLEHEM SPORTS
  Wrestling alignment conjures mixed emotions
The local wrestling world was flipped upside down last week when news broke of new divisional alignment in the East Penn Conference.
The league replaced its three-division format, with two divisions consisting of nine teams each.
By Peter Car

ATTENTION CANDIDATES
Primary candidates in the Bethlehem Press coverage area are asked to answer the following question and mail (308 East Third Street, Bethlehem 18015) or email their answers to editor George Taylor at gtaylor@tnonline.com.
“What makes you uniquely qualified for the position you seek?”
Our list of candidates will be published in the May 13 issue.
Please include your phone number to verify the response.

THIS WEEK IN FOCUS
  Student poetry project
To commemorate National Poetry Month in April, the Lehigh Valley Press newspapers and web sites present the 10th annual Student Poetry Project. Students whose poems are published on this page read their poems and were interviewed April 20 on “Lehigh Valley Arts Salon,” WDIY, Lehigh Valley Community Radio, 88.1 FM, wdiy.org. The Student Poetry Project adjudication committee met March 16 and read approximately 125 poems submitted by students from the Lehigh Valley.
The Lehigh Valley Press thanks students who submitted poems, as well as their teachers, parents and guardians for participating in the 10th annual Student Poetry Project.
By Paul Willistein

OTHER STORIES
Bethlehem: NCC hosts 18th Science Olympiad
Bethlehem: Becahi volleyball team honored
Bethlehem Township: Candidates share their views
Bethlehem Township: Board ponders comment polic

WEEKLY FEATURES
Around town community calendar
Police logs
Area obituaries
Center for Animal Health and Welfare
Volunteers
Student profiles
High school news reports

The Bethlehem Press online
Where to buy the Bethlehem Press
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ATTENTION CANDIDATES
Primary candidates in the Bethlehem Press coverage area are asked to answer the following question and mail (308 East Third Street, Bethlehem 18015) or email their answers to editor George Taylor at gtaylor@tnonline.com.
“What makes you uniquely qualified for the position you seek?”
Our list of candidates will be published in the May 13 issue.
Please include your phone number to verify the response. 

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April 29, 2015

COVER STORY
  Greenway Patio gets warm welcome
A crowd of local officials, dignitaries and residents gathers for the grand opening of the Greenway Patio adjacent to the Bethlehem Skateplaza, across from the Sands Casino Resort. A pavilion and concession stand with bathrooms, made from a converted shipping container, are designed to serve South Bethlehem Greenway and skateplaza users.
By Tim Gilman

BETHLEHEM TOWNSHIP
  Divided board grants waivers
Brooke Kuronya passes out watercolors of birds documented at Green Pond Marsh. By a 3-2 vote, Bethlehem Township’s Board of Commissioners approved a series of waivers and deferrals for a controversial senior housing development proposed by developer Traditions of America near the wetlands.
By Bernie O’Hare






THE ARTS
  Press artist’s show opens May 1
“Drawn to Politics: Editorial Cartoons by Ed Courrier,” a gallery show of published political cartoons created by Lehigh Valley-based cartoonist Ed Courrier has been scheduled by the Parkland Art League to run May 1 - June 30 at the Macungie Institute, 510 E. Main St., Macungie. Above: Keystone Press Award-winning “NSA?” cartoon was originally published Dec. 25, 2013 in the Bethlehem Press.



CLASSROOM
  Transforming the ‘Pink Lady’
Bethlehem Area Vo-Tech’s auto collision repair class transformed an aging 1962 pumper into Sally, a pink lady symbolizing the Pink Heals movement.
By Bernie O’Hare


THIS WEEK IN SOUTH BETHLEHEM HISTORY
  The Four Farms
Those who first encounter the term, “The Four Farms” must wonder, “what farms?” and “where?” What may come as a surprise is that these farms developed into present-day South Bethlehem and Fountain Hill in Northampton and Lehigh counties. The story begins in the early 18th century with the arrival of settlers to the Lehigh River Valley – an idyllic setting of ancient forests with native trees that covered fertile land, where shad freely swam unencumbered up the Lehigh River to spawn each spring, where flocks of raucous black crows dotted the sky.
By Ken Raniere

THIS WEEK IN BETHLEHEM SPORTS
  Reiman takes over as FHS girls hoop coach
If there’s one thing you can say about Freedom’s new girls basketball coach Dean Reiman, it’s that he’s excited for the opportunity to become apart of the Freedom family.
By Pete Car

THIS WEEK IN FOCUS
  A night at ‘Tiffany’s’
As in the lyrics of the pop group’s 1965 hit song, most people remember “Breakfast At Tiffany’s,” the 1961 film starring Audrey Hepburn. Many might not remember how much the film differs from Truman Capote’s 1958 novella about Holly Golightly, an ingénue on the loose in New York City.
By Paul Willistein

OTHER STORIES
Bethlehem: State House dismays city council
Bethlehem: Seeking to good buys at Southside library book sale
Bethlehem Authority: Pipeline looms, windmills multiply
BASD: Residents at odds over new field turf
Hanover Township: Supervisors help take out the trash
Fountain Hill: Hires made without full discussion
Northampton County: Clerical workers get raise
Northampton County: AFSCME rallies for voters

WEEKLY FEATURES
Around town community calendar
Police logs
Area obituaries
Center for Animal Health and Welfare
Volunteers
Student profiles
High school news reports

The Bethlehem Press online
Where to buy the Bethlehem Press
To subscribe:New start
Send news to the Bethlehem Press
To advertise:Ad staff
Follow us on Facebook
Follow us on Twitter
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