BETHLEHEM PRESS: June 2020

Tuesday, June 30, 2020

July1, 2020

COVER STORY

FIREWORKS: An explosive problem

Imagine this scenario: It’s a warm and muggy June evening, roughly 11 p.m. It’s been a long day of work and childcare, which has been particularly stressful over the last three months, thanks to Covid-19. You and your partner just let the dogs out one last time, checked in on the kids (they’ve been in bed since 9), and locked up the house.You brush your teeth and climb into bed. You hope you can fall asleep soon - your 6 a.m. alarm always comes fast. You turn the lights off, lay your head down on the pillow and close your eyes. Just as you start to drift off - BOOM! - an explosion!

By Chris Haring/Illustration by Ed Courrier
http://bethlehem.thelehighvalleypress.com/2020/06/30/fireworks-explosive-problem-bethlehem

COMMUNITY

Racism: One man’s thoughts

When he was only 4 years old, Frankie West’s parents decided to move their family north and ended up settling in Bethlehem. They had suffered one of the ultimate discriminatory experiences when, because of the color of their skin, they were refused admittance to the beach at Myrtle Beach, S.C. That was when they decided to move. West carries that scar deep inside and has only returned to Myrtle Beach once since, to watch his niece play basketball in a game at Coastal Carolina University. Photo: rankie West takes a knee in memory of George Floyd, repeating out loud, “I can’t breathe.” West continues to organize the annual Dr. Martin Luther King Civil Rights March, which ends at Martin Luther King Park on Carlton Avenue. West began participating in the march as a teenager and helped raise funds for the installation of monuments to Dr. King and his wife, Coretta.

By Dana Grubb

http://bethlehem.thelehighvalleypress.com/2020/06/30/racism-one-man’s-thoughts

COMMUNITY

Valley marks Juneteenth

“They didn’t educate me in Allentown High School about Black people,” said Disley Mendez, past president of the Black Student Union at William Allen. “They said we were slaves and that Martin Luther King came in and saved the day. They didn’t tell me we were descended from kings and queens.” The recent high school graduate spoke at Resurrected Life Church in Allentown as a crowd of about 125 gathered on the North Ninth Street campus of the church to celebrate Juneteenth. Photo: Kari Holmes of Allentown shows off her African culture in a colorful blouse and flag. She said she is with the Rising Sun Initiative, which is recording the history of African-Americans in Allentown.

By Douglas Graves

http://bethlehem.thelehighvalleypress.com/2020/06/30/valley-marks-juneteenth-‘people-around-world-are-seeing-what-people-our-backyards-refuse

SPORTS

Local softball teams look forward to tournament

While plans are still be made for the Lehigh Valley Softball Showcase scheduled for July 14, 15, and 16 at Northwest Little League fields, players from Liberty and Bethlehem Catholic are looking forward to the opportunity to play after their high school season ended before it began. “All of our girls are going to participate,” said Coach Sam Carrodo. “I miss being with the kids and being on the field, but I don’t want to forget the damage the coronavirus has done. We are going by every single guideline mandated and more.”

By Katie McDonald

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FOCUS

A tribute to Lance Metz

Lance E. Metz dedicated himself to preserving the heritage of the Lehigh Valley. Metz, 72, died in May of complications from the coronavirus (COVID-19). Metz was an historian for the National Canal Museum for 29 years. Martha Capwell Fox, archives coordinator for the museum, which is operated by the Delaware and Lehigh National Heritage Corridor, says, “Lance broadened the scope and mission of the Canal Museum.” Hugh Moore Park, Easton, where the museum is located, is noted for scenic trails along the Lehigh Canal, The Emrick Technology Center, Locktender’s House Museum and the canal boat ride, Josiah White II. Metz’s goal was to emphasize what the canal meant historically beyond its picturesque beauty.

By Dave Howell

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Tuesday, June 23, 2020

June 24, 2020

COVER STORY

Pandemic project: The Woods

Bethlehem Township resident Dave Jacoby has put his creative juices to work during the 2020 pandemic, creating artwork for his outdoor gallery and backyard retreat among a stand of evergreens he and his wife, Carol, planted 45 years ago as seedlings. They call it “The Woods.” Photo: Dave Jacoby has created a quiet meditative spot under the evergreen trees in a corner of his home in Bethlehem Township. A fire pit, chairs and bench allow for conversation and relaxation, with artwork on display all around.

By Dana Grubb

http://bethlehem.thelehighvalleypress.com/2020/06/23/ultimate-diversion-during-pandemic

COMMUNITY

Reopening churches

Knowing what is open or closed, as well as what restrictions apply, has been a challenge for the past 10 weeks. Beginning at 8 p.m. March 25, Northampton and Lehigh counties have been under a “stay at home” order. For people of faith – who might have expected First Amendment protections to afford houses of worship at least the same level of openness as grocery stores – the situation has an additional layer of frustration and confusion.

By Theresa O’Brien

http://bethlehem.thelehighvalleypress.com/2020/06/23/reopening-churches

CLASSROOM

Homeschooling during the pandemic

An estimated 55 million school children in the United States remained out of their classrooms the past few months because of the coronavirus. Parents already overwhelmed with the responsibility of homeschooling are faced with having to continue home studies this summer and possibly into the fall term. Photo: Nancy Elkoury is homeschooling her children at their home in the Lehigh Valley, using supplies provided by their school systems. Seven-year-old Chelsea will enter third grade in the fall, and her brother Caesar, who is finishing preschool, will graduate to kindergarten. Adding to her teaching responsibilities, Elkoury works full time, spending two work days a week at the office. Her husband owns his own business and also works full time. Like so many parents in the same situation, she does the best she can.

By Carole Gorney

http://bethlehem.thelehighvalleypress.com/2020/06/23/homeschooling-during-pandemic

SPORTS

Wolf issues sports guidelines

Lehigh Valley sports programs are on the verge of getting back together following preliminary guidelines released last week by Gov. Tom Wolf. The press release stated that members of the PIAA can resume activities for programs in the yellow and green phases of the COVID-19 plan.

By Peter Car

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FOCUS

The Sound of Summer

For almost 200 years, the sound of the Allentown Band has been one of the beloved sounds of summer. But this summer, the familiar drums, brass and woodwinds of the oldest civilian concert band in the United States have been silenced. The Allentown Band was founded in 1828. “I miss it so much,” says Ronald Demkee, conductor of the 60-person Allentown Band. “I miss making music and sharing music.”

By Kathy Lauer-Williams

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Tuesday, June 16, 2020

June 17, 2020

COVER STORY-SAUCON VALLEY GRADUATION

‘Not every moment a victory’

The 123rd class of Saucon Valley High School held graduation Saturday, June 6 in a unique ceremony in the parking lot of the district’s campus. Families sat in their festively decorated vehicles as they watched the ceremony on the big screen and tuned their car radios to hear audio from speakers on this sunny, warm and breezy late spring afternoon. The ceremony was posted one day due to predicted storms. Photo: Talitha Diggs joyously receives her diploma at the Saucon Valley High commencement. Diggs, who was the event’s student-selected speaker, plans to attend the University of Florida to study business and sports management.

By Chris Haring and Ed Courrier

bethlehem.thelehighvalleypress.com/2020/06/16/‘not-every-moment-victory’-honking-horns-salute-saucon-valley’s-class-2020

NAACP GEORGE FLYOD RALLY

‘A moral emergency’

A multi-ethnic and multi-racial group of about 200 people gathered in Bethlehem’s Payrow Plaza June 6 to hear speeches by officers of local NAACP chapters and some religious leaders. All spoke in support of continued action in support of justice in the nation’s judicial system, especially at the hands of police. The need for accountability of police for their actions was a central theme. Photo: Teenagers Madi Trout of Center Valley and sign-holding Brianna Tyler, a student at Northampton High School, listen to speakers.

By Douglas Graves

bethlehem.thelehighvalleypress.com/2020/06/16/‘-moral-emergency’-naacp-hosts-rally-memory-george-Floyd

ANOTHER VIEW

Graphic commentary by Ed Courrier

bethlehem.thelehighvalleypress.com/2020/06/16/another-view-ed’s-world

SPORTS

Uhler takes over Liberty girls soccer

Former Liberty boys’ soccer assistant coach Andrew Uhler will take over as Liberty girls’ soccer head coach for Scott Rodenbach who retired at the end of last season. “I knew Scott was going to retire, and we coach together at Nitschmann [Middle School],” said Uhler, who played soccer at Freedom from 2005 to 2007. “Since I already knew a fair amount of girls, I hit the ground running pretty quickly.” But Uhler was only able to conduct just one voluntary practice before schools were shut down in March.

By Katie McDonald

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http://bethlehem.thelehighvalleypress.com/

FOCUS

Buckeye and Alburtis taverns adjust to pandemic

Restaurants across Pennsylvania had to shutter their dining areas because of Gov. Tom Wolf’s executive order to close non-essential businesses in response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. To keep the food service businesses afloat while protecting workers and customers during the Red Phase, eateries were permitted to offer take-out and delivery only. With Lehigh and Northampton counties moving from the Red Phase to the Yellow Phase June 5, outdoor dining, but not indoor dining, is allowed.

By Ed Courrier

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Tuesday, June 9, 2020

JUNE 3 AND 10, 2020

COVER STORY – June 10

New Bethany: Pandemic increases needs

In a time when much of the Lehigh Valley was brought to a standstill, New Bethany Ministries has been busier than ever. The Southside Bethlehem nonprofit is used to difficulty, providing services for people who have nowhere else to turn. But, like everyone during the COVID-19 crisis, it has faced new challenges. Executive Director Marc Rittle calls New Bethany “a community of care and support.” Homeless and low income clients can be helped by a full range of services, including hot meals, a food pantry, showers, hygiene products, and laundry services, as well as varied housing programs and case management services. Photo: Volunteers Nicole Peluso and Josh Osowiecki, and Director of Operations Veronne Demesyeux prepare lunches in the New Bethany Ministries kitchen.

By David Howell and Dana Grubb

http://bethlehem.thelehighvalleypress.com/2020/06/08/new-bethany-ministries

COVER STORY – June 3

Something to look forward to

On the night of Nov. 23, 2012, Bethlehem resident Brian McCritcherd awoke screaming in pain from injuries to his back that happened during six years of service in the Army. His service had already left him with several crippled fingers; now, in addition to the pain he was suffering, the veteran was losing the ability to stand unassisted and walk. Five major surgeries on his back followed over the next few years, none of them fully successful. Today, thanks to a strong upper body, McCritcherd can pull himself to a standing position, but his left leg doesn’t respond at all. Photo: After his workout, Brian McCritcherd is joined by Jodi Evans, recreation director for the City of Bethlehem, who was instrumental in making the ice rink available for him for one hour each week. Next year, Evans hopes to attract more skaters with disabilities to the facility.

By Dennis Glew

http://bethlehem.thelehighvalleypress.com/2020/06/02/‘something-look-forward-to’

SPORTS – June 10

Media named 4A Player of the Year

Bethlehem Catholic senior guard Taliyah Medina was named 4A Player of the Year and First Team All-State Girls Basketball Player on April 20.

The soon-to-be Villanova University Lady Wildcat finished her career at Becahi with 1,168 points, over 600 rebounds, and more than 200 assists despite missing her junior year due to injury.

By Katie McDonald

SPORTS – June 3

Toomey roundtable: Why not get outside

U.S. Sen. Pat Toomey (R-Pa.), chairman of the Senate Finance Committee Subcommittee on Health Care, convened a virtual roundtable about youth baseball and softball leagues safely resuming play.

The event took place on Thursday, May 21, and the public was invited to watch on YouTube. The roughly hourlong discussion can still be viewed on Sen. Toomey’s YouTube page.

By Scott Pagel

FOCUS – June 10

Tribute: Dixie White a cultivator of causes

Dixie Dugan White, who passed away April 18, was one of a kind.

It would be difficult to find anyone in the Lehigh Valley who was more of an activist. She worked with countless organizations for economic equality, human rights and the environment. She was determined, but she always kept her sense of humor.

Her many socially-active involvements included President, Pennsylvania Chapter, National Organization of Women; Senior Field Organizer, Chicago Chapter, National Organization of Women, and first director, AIDS Service Center of the Lehigh Valley.

By David Howell

FOCUS – June 3

Curtail rises: ‘Fresh Voices’

“Fresh Voices” is as innovative as ever this year, in one sense more than Southside Bethlehem’s Touchstone Theatre might have imagined.

As with its recent “Young Playwrights’ Festival,” this year’s “Fresh Voices” is going virtual because of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic mandates.

By David Howell

Friday, June 5, 2020

APRIL – MAY 2020

These are some of our top stories during a time when our Facebook page was down.

APRIL 29

Right activist to be honored

Bradbury-Sullivan LGBT Community joins the family and friends of Dixie Dugan White to mourn her passing and to celebrate her activist legacy. White passed away last recently.

White was a pioneering activist for feminist and LGBT causes. She was an activist with LeHiHo in the 1970s and then became the director of the AIDS Services Center of the Lehigh Valley in the early days of the HIV epidemic. Photo: In September 2011, Dixie Dugan White received the “Best Overall Backyard Habitat” award from Bethlehem’s Environmental Advisory Committee. At the time, White owned a home on the south side of Bethlehem and had created a backyard garden that provided food, a place that attracted wildlife, and quiet space she called her own “peaceful little heaven.” Press photo by Dana Grubb

http://bethlehem.thelehighvalleypress.com/2020/04/27/rights-activist-be-honored

Another View – Ed’s World

Graphic commentary by Ed Courrier

http://bethlehem.thelehighvalleypress.com/2020/04/27/another-view-ed%E2%80%99s-world

MAY 6

17,000 masks and counting

Before March of this year, when was the last time any of us had to concern ourselves with how and where we would be able to purchase a mask, aside from Halloween season? Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) was usually easily obtainable for those in the medical field and surgical-style masks were available for bulk purchase through a number of retailers, both online and in person. Photo: Ruth Dennison at her sewing machine in her home. She compares the efforts of her 2,000 volunteer sewers to that of Bethlehem Steel’s manufacturing during World War II, when it operated as the nation’s top military contractor.

By Chris Haring

http://bethlehem.thelehighvalleypress.com/2020/05/05/17000-masks-and-counting

Project Hope feeds area families

For more than 30 years, Project Hope of Easton has provided a winter holiday dinner for some 600 persons in need in the Lehigh Valley. This spring, the 501(c)(3) charity is expanding its efforts to feed the hungry in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Project Hope is helping provide food to families with children now unable to access lunches through the Easton and Wilson schools that closed last month. The new program provides weekly pizzas and meals to those with vouchers that are given out at local shelters and food pantries Photo: Project Hope Board of Directors Co-chair Judy Walker inspects boxes of gifts to be given out at the nonprofit’s last year’s annual Christmas dinner and party for needy families. She is now overseeing a new project to feed school children and their families during the COVID-19 pandemic.

By Carole Gorney

http://bethlehem.thelehighvalleypress.com/2020/05/05/project-hope-helping-feed-needy-families

MAY 13

Appreciating teachers at a challenging time

The week of May 4 through 8 is traditionally celebrated at Teacher Appreciation Week, and although challenged by the ongoing pandemic and associated restrictions, the administrators, parents, students, and community partners of BASD showed their gratitude in many ways.

Photo: Two Fountain Hill ES siblings share a handmade poster thanking their teachers. The tiger represents beloved mascot Fountain Hill Phil.

By Theresa O’Brien

http://bethlehem.thelehighvalleypress.com/2020/05/11/appreciating-teachers

‘This is what I do … I make people happy’

Realtors are out of work right now due to the governor’s order. Under the order, realtors are not considered essential workers. Some may find this strange, as shelter is definitely considered a necessity. Realtor Lucy Lennon of Morganelli Properties shares her experiences during the panemic. “It’s hard to say from year to year how a market differs – coronavirus or not – because of market conditions,” she says. “This year started off much busier than last. In March alone I had over a half dozen closings and a handful of rentals. Then the governor shut us down and it all came to a stop. Now we are all at a standstill. Photo: “We don’t just ‘show’ houses,” says Realtor Lucy Lennon. “We guide you through probably one of the biggest purchases you will ever make.”

By Lani Goins

http://bethlehem.thelehighvalleypress.com/2020/05/11/%E2%80%98-what-i-do-i-make-people-happy%E2%80%99

MAY 20

Trump visits Valley

President Donald Trump made his first visit to the Lehigh Valley as president May 14 to tour the Owens & Minor Inc. medical supply distribution center, 7437 Industrial Blvd., Upper Macungie Township. During a live-stream video on the White House Web page, Trump discussed increasing the Strategic National Stockpile, coronavirus testing and state reopening plans. Speaking against a backdrop of boxes of protective gowns, Trump addressed an audience of several dozen employees wearing neon-colored T-shirts, sitting at least 6 feet apart and wearing masks. Trump did not wear a mask. Photo Air Force One lifts off from ABE International Airport at the end of a presidential visit to the Lehigh Valley.

By Sarit Laschinsky Photo by Scott Nagy

http://bethlehem.thelehighvalleypress.com/2020/05/18/presidential-visit

West Bethlehem WWII Memorial’s history

Tall trees, radiant flowers, pleasant music – the scene at Bethlehem’s Rose Garden is one to take in and enjoy. As you stroll through the peaceful grounds, there are a variety of interesting memorials and monuments to observe. One such monument stands to honor the young men and women of Bethlehem’s West Side who served in World War II. You can find it along Eighth Avenue facing Nitschmann MS. The movement to erect this particular memorial was started by the West Side Republican Club and the work was carried out by the Bethlehem West Side Plaque Committee, chaired by Frank A. Bilheimer.

By Jason Rehm

http://bethlehem.thelehighvalleypress.com/2020/05/18/west-bethlehem-wwii-memorial%E2%80%99s-history

MAY 27

The latest causality of the Covid-19 crisis

You see it on television – small businesses closing their doors due to the COVID-19 pandemic sweeping the nation. But it only happens in those other places, not your own neighborhood and not to someone who has become a friend to the community. This friend, Dave Soska, owner of Allentown Bethlehem Goose, formerly Allentown Goose, was one of the first to say “yes” when a gift certificate was needed for a community fundraiser. Yet when his business needed assistance due to COVID-19, help did not arrive. Soska decided to close his business the first week of April. Photo: The Allentown/Bethlehem Goose, 2501 Willow Park Road, Bethlehem, has closed permanently due to COVID-19.

By Deb Galbraith

http://bethlehem.thelehighvalleypress.com/2020/05/26/latest-casualty

Make commitment to buy locally

While Willow Haven Farm and its farm store are located in New Tripoli, they have an ordering program that delivers in the Lehigh Valley, and also offer a farm share program, called a CSA, which delivers to pick-up locations in Bethlehem and elsewhere. Tessa DeMaster and her husband Reuben run the farm along with their children. The farm share program grew substantially this year, in part by plan, and in part by circumstances. Photo: Tessa and her husband Reuben own Willow Haven Farm, 7686 Herber Road, New Tripoli, and run it with their family. The farm has been in Tessa’s family for generations.

By Lani Goins

http://bethlehem.thelehighvalleypress.com/2020/05/26/make-commitment-buy-local

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