The West End’s latest nightlife addition, the ScottishIrish pub located at 2101 W. Liberty St., opened in late August, just as the Allentown Fair was opening and Muhlenberg College students were returning to campus. Owners Bill and Suzanne Dech, whose other restaurants are in Bethlehem, are enjoying a warm reception in the West End.
“I think a lot of our neighbors are happy to have another bar/ restaurant to frequent in walking distance,” the Dechs said in an email. “[We’re] getting a lot of compliments on our made-fromscratch food and friendly staff.”
Passersby can see that not much has changed about the facade but the signage since Stooges Bar & Grille became Bagpiper’s. Stooges’ Thin Blue Line and Thin Red Line flags have been replaced by the flags of the countries from which Bagpiper’s draws its menu. Enter the restaurant, and the bar is to
your right with a dining area to your left — the Dechs removed the second bar the new Stooges had built there. The glass-paneled garage door in front of the dining room allows fresh air to circulate in warmer weather and plenty of light to enter the dining room even when it’s closed.
A friend and I ventured to Bagpiper’s for dinner and drinks in late September, and I was first struck by the beer list. In addition to the expected, given the bar’s theme (Guinness, Harp, Smithwick’s) and its location in
Pennsylvania, U.S.A. (Yuengling, Miller Lite), Bagpiper’s offers some treats for local craft beer fans and hop heads. Beers from both Bethlehem’s Bonn Place and Lansdale’s Well Crafted were on draft that night, as were IPAs from Sloop, in New York, and Vermont’s Fiddlehead.
The menu is a mix of Scottish/ Irish staples (bangers and mash, a take on shepherd’s pie) and American bar food (mozzarella sticks, multiple burgers, wings). Be careful, or you might accidentally order an excessive quantity of
potatoes: My friend and I, without looking too closely at the menu, decided to split the Irish Nachos and the Fish & Chips, not realizing that the “nachos” have a base of potato wedges instead of tortilla chips. The Irish Nachos came slathered in housemade beer cheese and topped with hunks of corned beef and thinly sliced scallions — great for a friend date, perhaps less so for a romantic one.
The fried fish was nicely crisped, and we needed a box for the “chips.” So many carbohydrates!
The servers were friendly and attentive. The vibe was both lively and chill, though I questioned the fellow patron who put “All I Want for Christmas Is You” on the jukebox on a 70-degree September evening. And while I enjoyed my visit to Bagpiper’s in fall, I am especially looking forward to stopping by in March, when the entire neighborhood will have an Irish theme to match the bar’s. n
PHOTO BY BILL BASTA
Protect Your Child from Identity Theft
Identity thieves could steal your child’s Social Security number, name and address or date of birth to apply for government benefits, such as health insurance or to open a bank account or credit card. Your child’s stolen identity could also be used to rent an apartment, sign up for utilities or apply for a loan. All the while, you may have no idea that your child’s stolen identity is being used to rack up large amounts of unpaid debt, resulting in a poor credit history. So, when your kid grows up and starts out on their own, he or she already faces roadblocks to approval for loans, credit cards and renting a place to live. The good news is that you can take steps to protect your child’s identity and know how to spot warning signs that your child’s identity has been compromised.
Preventing child identity theft
Ask questions before providing your child’s Social Security number. The FTC recommends asking a few questions first if your child’s school or another business or organization says it needs your child’s Social Security number for its records. Before simply handing over the number, which can be
stolen for identity theft purposes, inquire further about why they need the Social Security number. Also, ask how they will protect the number from misuse or theft. Ask if the school can use a different identifier instead or just the last four digits to identify your child.
Store documents that contain your child’s personal information, such as their Social Security card or medical bills, in a secure place, such as a locked file cabinet.
“When you decide to get rid of those documents, shred them before you throw them away. If you don’t have a shredder, look for a local shred day,” advises the FTC.
Delete personal information from devices.
The FTC recommends deleting all personal information about your child and your own from the hard drive on your computer, phone, or tablet before disposing of devices. That way, the sensitive information can’t be used by an identity thief. Before deleting, transfer the files to a new computer or save them to the cloud or an external storage device such as a USB flash drive. If keeping to the cloud, ensure you find the level of privacy and security offered.
Watch for warning signs.
Keep an eye out for warning signs that your child’s personal information is being used by someone else. Warning signs include:
n You’re denied health care coverage, nutrition assistance, or other government benefits because someone else is already receiving those benefits under your child’s name.
n You receive collection calls for a bill under your child’s name for an account you didn’t open for the child.
n The IRS sends a letter saying that your child owes income taxes. This may happen if someone used your child’s Social Security number on tax forms for a job.
n You’re denied a student loan because of your child’s bad credit. This can happen when someone else opens a credit card, cell phone, utility, or other account and then doesn’t pay the bills. Generally, a child under 16 won’t have a credit report – unless that child’s personal information is being used by someone else to commit identity theft fraud.
The FTC recommends contacting the three major credit bureaus –
TransUnion, Experian, and Equifax – and asking for a manual search for your child’s Social Security number to see if a credit report turns up. When you call, you may have to provide credentials such as your driver’s license or other government-issued I.D., proof of address, birth certificate and/or your child’s Social Security card. When your child turns 16, also check for a credit report under his or her name. That way, you’ll have time to correct any identity theft fallout by the time they turn 18 and head to college or set out on their own. n
Information provided by KOFE®: Knowledge of Financial Education.
West End Alliance, Inc. PO Box 173, Allentown, PA 18105 www.westendallentown.com
WEA Cornerstone Partners commit to a year-long investment in our neighborhood and WEA activities. We are grateful for their support. For more information on becoming a Cornerstone Partner, contact Michael Drabenstott at (610) 417-0503. PUBLICATION STAFF Editor — Rob Stevens
Writers — Frederick Jerant, Meghan Kita, Ron Epstein, Rob Stevens
Copy Editing —Sara Muir
Fall 2024 Martin Art Gallery Exhibits & Events
Exhibitions, artist talks and lectures, alumni art shows and highlights from our permanent collection of artwork are featured at Muhlenberg’s Philip Johnsondesigned Baker Center for the Arts this fall.
All exhibits and events are free and open to the public. Join us!
Highlights include:
Sofia Cacciapaglia
Nuovo
October 14 - December 31 Director’s Walkthrough and Opening Reception was on:
Wednesday, October 16, 5-7:30, Martin Art Gallery
Often monumental in size, Cacciapaglia’s paintings depict dream-like gardens and largerthan-life female entities suspended in an ethereal space, linked to one another through contact and gaze, placement and pattern. Her paintings harken back to a long Italian tradition of mural painting, from ancient Rome to
the Renaissance and into today. The work is also imbued with environmental concerns over waste and mass production and speaks to the radical Italian arte povera movement of the 1960s that challenged traditional modes of production and consumption. By painting on salvaged cardboard boxes rather than canvases, Cacciapaglia allows discarded objects to live di nuovo, renewed, afresh, transformed. Cacciapaglia studied Fine Art at the Accademia di Belle Arti di Brera in Milan; after graduating in 2006, she moved to New York. In 2011 she became the youngest artist invited to the Italian Pavilion for the 54° International Art Exhibition La Biennale di Venezia. This exhibition is presented in collaboration with Sapar Contemporary, New York.
FULL SCHEDULE:
Fall 2024 Martin Art Gallery Exhibits & Events
Learn More: Muhlenberg’s Martin Art Gallery
We engage in Muhlenberg’s vibrant cultural dialogue by bringing exhibits of all genres and media to the heart of our campus community. Our goal is to expose students, faculty, staff and the visiting public to diverse, high-
At the Jewish Community Center
Visual & Performing Arts
n Jewish Film Nights
Discussion Dates: 11/19, 12/17, 1/14, 2/11
Virtual via Zoom Free
The group meets to discuss a Jewish interest film. Watch the films at your convenience and then join us for the discussion. To join the discussions, visit lvjcc.org/film.
At the JCC of the Lehigh Valley (702 N. 22nd Street Allentown, PA 18104)
Lessons are 30 mins by appointment
Price per Lesson: $50 | JCC Members: $40 12 Lesson Packages Available Ages: 5 and up Jeff Bowers is teaching voice, guitar, piano, or beginner drums.
quality national and international artists in the Baker Center for the Arts. The Gallery supplements its year-round exhibition schedule with gallery talks, artist receptions and interdisciplinary programs. All exhibits and events are free and open to the public. n
Contact Alaina Schaeffer at 610435-3571 or aschaeffer@lvjcc.org for availability before registering. Visit lvjcc.org/musiclessons for more information.
Stagemakers Youth Theater
n Presents “Shrek The Musical Jr.” Thursday, November 14 at 7 p.m. Sunday, November 17 at 12 p.m. & 4 p.m.
At the JCC of the Lehigh Valley (702 N. 22nd Street Allentown, PA 18104)
Tickets: $15 | Get tickets at lvjcc. org/Stagemakers
At the JCC of the Lehigh Valley (702 N. 22nd Street Allentown, PA 18104)
Grades: K-3rd
Price: $120 | JCC Members: $100 This workshop is a great introduction to musical theater! Kids will explore acting, singing, and dancing without the commitment to a full Stagemakers production. The workshop culminates with a performance. Register at lvjcc.org/ Stagemakers or call the JCC at 610435-3571) Contact: Heather Lavin (hlavin@lvjcc.org | 610-435-3571)
n Broadway Bus Trip: Hell’s Kitchen
Registration Ends: January 31
Trip Date: Sunday, March 2
Bus departs the JCC at 8:30 a.m. Estimated arrival back at JCC around 9 p.m.
Non-Member Price: $225 | JCC Members: $200
(continued
Sofia Cacciapaglia in her studio, courtesy of Sapar Contemporary
Henry’s Salt of the Sea: A Timeless Staple of the West End’s Dining Scene
By Meghan Kita
Not much has changed about Henry’s Salt of the Sea (1926 W. Allen St.) during the 20 years chef and owner Brian Krans has operated the restaurant. Heck, it seems not much has changed about it since “The Morning Call” described it as “the new restaurant on the block” in a writeup from 1982. It still has the “nautical theme,” the “rustic atmosphere,” the “very limited seating capacity” and even the salad bar described in the newspaper’s review.
Krans’ feeling is: Why change something that works? The reservation book (still written by hand) fills each month with standing reservations for dozens of customers, some who’ve been coming for decades and others
from a younger generation:
“They’re always taking pictures of the food, which I don’t understand because I don’t have a phone,” said Krans, whose “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” perspective extends to technology. He hasn’t gotten a computerized POS (point of sale) system for the restaurant; instead, he relies on handwritten checks and an old-school cash register perched behind the bar.
The menu is a collection of some of his regulars’ favorites (like the Henry VIII, a petite filet stuffed with crab meat, and the Lobster Francaise) and specials that rotate depending on what’s fresh at the time. He suspects his customers keep coming back because the food and drinks are good, the portions and pours are generous, and his loyal staff of 16 workers is educated, efficient and
BY BILL BASTA
talented. The lack of a parking lot, also mentioned in the 1982 “Call” review, has never stopped the restaurant from booking up night after night.
“I enjoy what I’m doing,” Krans said. “My wife says, ‘When are you going to retire?’ And I say, ‘Never.’ My son says, ‘Dad, you’re not going to retire. You’re going to expire.’ But it’s fun. It’s easy. It’s not a hard living, though the hours are long.”
Indeed, Krans is usually on site at 10 a.m., ordering food, putting food away, prepping for the dinner service (and it’s only dinner, Monday through Saturday, with Sundays off to be with family).
Sometimes Krans stays after the restaurant closes at 9 or 10 p.m., preparing for the next day. It’s then that Krans is reminded of the restaurant’s namesake, restaurateur Henry Friedel, who died in 1990 at age 55.
“Sometimes I think he’s still here at night, playing with me,” Krans said. “I hear his keys shaking.
I hear someone walking down [along the booths] at night. He’s telling me, ‘It’s time to leave.’” n
PHOTOS
ARTS (continued from page 3)
A private charter bus from the JCC to New York City with an orchestra level ticket to see Hell’s Kitchen. A grab and go breakfast is included prior to boarding the bus at the JCC as well as a snack bag on the return ride home. Register at lvjcc.org/BroadwayBusTrip or call the JCC at 610-435-3571 | Contact: Tracy Sussman (tsussman@lvjcc.org | 610-435-3571)
Classes & Clubs (Adults)
n Mah Jongg Madness
Sunday, November 10 9:30am-1:30pm
At the JCC of the Lehigh Valley (702 N. 22nd Street Allentown, PA 18104)
Price: $55 | JCC Members: $45 Bring your friends and spend a morning playing Mah Jongg! Register at lvjcc.org/Mahjong.
n Leisure Game of Mah Jongg Mondays, 1:30-3:30pm Wednesdays, 1-3:30pm
At the JCC of the Lehigh Valley (702 N. 22nd Street Allentown,
PA 18104)
Price: $5 | JCC Members: Free Come and play a leisure game of Mah Jongg! Mah Jongg is a great way to sharpen your mental acuity and socialize. Stop by the JCC or call 610-435-3571 to register. | Contact: Tracy Sussman (tsussman@ lvjcc.org | 610-435-3571)
n Yiddish Club & Basic Yiddish Class
Visit lvjcc.org/AdultsattheJ for a full list of times
Virtual via Zoom
If you love Jewish culture you’ll enjoy Yiddish songs, humor, recipes and fun conversation in the “mameloshn” (translations provided). Contact Janis Mikofsky (610-435-3571 ext. 501) for class availability.
n Friendship Circle Mondays (September - May) 11:45 a.m. – 2 p.m.
At the JCC of the Lehigh Valley (702 N. 22nd Street Allentown, PA 18104) Ages: 50+
Annual Fee: $72 Friendship Circle programs
vary and often include musical entertainment, special speakers, demonstrations or hands-on activities.Kosher-style food will be provided (not under Rabbinic supervision). To register, call the JCC at 610-435-3571 | Contact: Simon Katz (skatz@lvjcc.org | 610-435-3571)
For more information on these programs, please see our website. Classes & Clubs (Kids)
n Youth Running Club Mondays, 3:30-4pm 12/2 - 12/30 (5 weeks)
n JHoops Youth Basketball Holiday Clinics
Monday. – January 20 | 9:30-11:30 a.m.
Monday, February 17 | 9:30-11:30a.m.
n Youth Crochet at the J Class Thursdays. – 5:00-6:00 p.m. 12/5 - 2/20 (10 weeks)
n Little Builders
Mondays. – 5:00-6:00 p.m. 12/2 - 1/13 (5 weeks)
n Sensory Yoga For Kids Tuesdays, 4:45-5:30p.m.
12/3 - 1/14 (5 weeks)
n Festive Flavors Youth Cooking Class Wednesdays. – 4:15-5:30 p.m. 12/4 - 2/19 (10 weeks)
n JHoops Youth Basketball League Season runs November 11March 12
n JSeals Swim Team Season runs November 25March 6
n JHoops Jr. Youth Basketball Class Ages: 3-5 | Wednesdays, 3:304:00pm | 1/8 - 2/12 (6 weeks) Ages: 5-6 | Thursdays, 4:305:15pm | 1/9 - 2/13 (6 weeks)
n Adult Indoor Golf League Wednesdays 5:30-8:30pm Segment 1: 12/4 - 1/21 Segment 2: 2/4 - 3/11 n
(ARTS continued on page 7
Discover a challenging, supportive college experience, right in your backyard.
Muhlenberg College values the talent and potential of students in our local community. That’s why we hope you’ll:
Join Us for Our Open House
On Friday, November 8, high school juniors and seniors are invited to meet faculty and staff, connect with current students, learn about the admissions process and sample the #1 campus food in Pennsylvania. Can’t make it? Tours, interviews and Q&A sessions are held regularly. Explore your options at muhlenberg.edu/visit .
Use Our Fee Waiver to Apply
Muhlenberg offers an application fee waiver specifically for students who attend high school in Lehigh and Northampton Counties. In order to use this fee waiver, please select, “I will graduate from a high school located in Lehigh or Northampton County, PA” in the fee waiver section of your Common Application.
To explore the transformative possibilities of a Muhlenberg education, scan the code or visit muhlenberg.edu/admissions
Home Equity Loan Sale
St. Luke’s Recognized as Safest Hospital System in Pennsylvania
The Hospital and Healthsystem Association of Pennsylvania (HAP) has recognized the Pennsylvania hospitals that have achieved exemplary results preventing infections – and St. Luke’s had more hospitals on the list than any other health system in the state.
Of the 22 hospitals honored for their patient safety, five are St. Luke’s.
HAP identifies top-performing hospitals using data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Healthcare Safety Network. To be recognized, hospitals must perform better than the mean standardized infection ratio in three key measures: central line-associated bloodstream infections, catheterassociated urinary tract infections and occurrences of clostridioides difficile.
Excellence in Patient Safety Recognition recipients during its recent Patient Safety, Quality, and Equity Symposium in Harrisburg. The five St. Luke’s hospitals are:
n St. Luke’s Allentown Campus
n St. Luke’s Anderson Campus
n St. Luke’s Carbon Campus
n St. Luke’s Monroe Campus
n St. Luke’s University Hospital, Bethlehem Campus
in new money to qualify for the promotional rate. Other rates and terms are available. Mortgage satisfaction fee applies at loan payo . Property insurance is, and ood insurance may be, required QNB NMLS #781724
“There can be only one #1, and by these objective measures, it is St. Luke’s,” said St. Luke’s Senior Vice President and Chief Quality Officer Donna Sabol. “Kudos to our doctors, nurses and other caregivers who have achieved these remarkable results through their unwavering commitment to highest safety standards.”
HAP announced the 2024
Additionally, this is the sixth consecutive year that St. Luke’s University Hospital’s Bethlehem Campus has been honored through the Excellence in Patient Safety Recognition program. The Bethlehem Campus is the only hospital in the state to earn this important designation every year that HAP has awarded it. The hospital’s team received special recognition at the symposium.
“Delivering high-quality and safe care to their communities is hospitals’ top priority,” HAP President and CEO Nicole Stallings said. “HAP is proud to recognize the Pennsylvania hospital teams that have achieved outstanding results from their commitment to continuous quality and safety improvement.” n
ARTS (continued from page 5)
Why I Live Here: Walking the West End (and Enjoying Its Trees)
By Meghan Kita
Mark Rabenold was born in Allentown and began living in the city’s West End shortly before his first birthday. He recently celebrated his 69th. Aside from four years in college in Boston and two years teaching in Bucks County, he has lived in the West End his whole life. One reason he loves the neighborhood is its trees — but the West End of his childhood had far, far more of them.
“I can’t believe the number of trees around the West End that have died and been cut down over the years without being replaced, especially as our climate grows warmer,” he said. As a regular walker, Rabenold appreciates the shade the remaining trees provide during the summer months, but he also enjoys their beauty during the spring and fall months, as well as the barren look their twisting branches show off in the wintertime. He walks 3.5-miles throughout the West End neighborhoods every day the weather allows him to. Rabenold wishes his fellow West Enders would seriously consider the many benefits street trees provide to neighborhood residents and begin to replace trees that have died to help return the look and feel of the West End to what it once was.
Theater, Dance, Art, Music: Find It All at Muhlenberg College
Muhlenberg College has a longstanding reputation as a hub for the arts, and the public is invited to enjoy many of the exhibits, productions and performances that take place on campus.
“The arts play such an important role in our community, and we’re excited to invite our neighbors and friends to campus so they can be a part of all that’s happening here,” said President Kathleen Harring. “We look forward to seeing you!”
The Department of Theater & Dance is nationally recognized: The Princeton Review recently ranked Muhlenberg #6 for Best College Theater, while Niche ranked Muhlenberg #4 in Pennsylvania for performing arts. Tickets for the mainstage productions can be found by visiting muhlenberg. edu/tickets. Upcoming shows include the musical “Natasha, Pierre and the Great Comet of 1812” (Oct. 31-Nov.3) and two dance concerts, “Reset:
Rabenold has lived in the area for so long that he remembers when the intersection of Tilghman Street and Cedar Crest Boulevard had a blinking traffic light — yellow for Tilghman and red for Cedar Crest. His early childhood home was in the 2000 block of Washington Street. When he was 11, his family moved to the 1000 block of North 23rd Street. And he bought his home, at the corner of 30th and Greenleaf Streets, 30 years ago.
Rabenold’s parents were avid walkers, walking three or four
miles together daily after his father retired. That’s what got him started, and the beauty of the neighborhood — not only the trees but the wide variety of styles of homes — has kept him going, for 44 years and counting. On a typical day, he’ll walk 32 city blocks (from 29th to 30th is one block east-west, and from Greenleaf to Washington is one block north-south), as there are about nine city blocks to a mile. In the summer, he favors routes that take him down tree-lined Allen Street; on cold days, he prefers taking other routes that provide him with more ample amounts of sunshine.
“The day I’m unable to walk around the West End, that’s going to be a very sad day for me,” said Rabenold, who noted that his mother continued to walk well into her 90s. “I see mostly dog walkers. I don’t see as many people walking by themselves. I often, especially if I see somebody glance over, will say hello and exchange pleasantries. It gives me the interaction that I enjoy with my fellow West Enders.” n
New Dances” (Nov. 21-23) and “Dance Studio Sessions” (Dec. 4-5).
The Martin Art Gallery, located in the Baker Center for the Arts, has artwork from professionals and students on display yearround. The Martin Art Gallery is open during the fall and spring semesters from Monday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Saturdays from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. Schedules for public talks, artist receptions and workshops can be found at muhlenberg.edu/gallery.
Muhlenberg’s Department of Music organizes frequent recitals and concerts, with more than a dozen scheduled for November alone. An upcoming music-related highlight is the college’s annual Candlelight Carols services in Egner Memorial Chapel Dec. 7-8; free tickets are required for the performances. Bookmark muhlenberg.edu/artsatmuhlenberg to find up-to-date music, art, theater and dance information. n
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PHOTO BY BILL BASTA
Another Stellar World of Food Festival Thanks for Your Support!
By Meghan Kita
More than 1,000 people and more than 30 vendors came to the West End for this year’s World of Food Festival on Saturday, September 21. Festival-goers enjoyed a variety of cuisines, a range of beers and wines, and music from Mike Lorenz & Friendz, Food Truck, The Dukes of Destiny and We’re From Antarctica.
“It was a successful day for the West End Alliance, fun was had by all and we look forward to growing it again next year,” said organizer Liz Martin.
Proceeds from the World of Food Festival are invested right back into the neighborhood, funding projects such as the holiday tree lighting, the sidewalk planters and the street banners.
Save the date for next year’s event, which will be held, as always, on the third Saturday of September (September 20, 2025). If you’re interested in getting involved in the event, contact WestEndWOFF@gmail.com. n
Give the Gift of the West End
By Meghan Kita
This holiday season, don’t order from the massive e-commerce sites that fly their delivery planes very low above our beloved neighborhood. Shopping local is what’s really prime.
For those who prefer experiences over stuff
The Civic Theatre of Allentown (527 N. 19th St.) offers both gift cards, which can be redeemed for film tickets, live performance tickets, concessions and merchandise, as well as film vouchers. Put some pep in your recipient’s step with a gift card for ballroom dance instruction from The Dance Dietitian (602 N. St. Cloud St.). Or, give a gift card to a favorite local restaurant or bar — there are so many in the West End to choose from.
To give the gift of booze
Find dozens of varieties of locally made wines, all with feline-themed labels, at Sleepy Cat Urban Winery (1840 W. Allen St.). The relatively new West End Taproom (2114 W. Tilghman St.) sells fresh cans of Funk Brewing beers (made in nearby Emmaus) to go.
For your next white elephant/ Yankee swap gift exchange
For those who prefer stuff over experiences
BoutiqueToGo (522 N. 19th St.) has a variety of clothing, handbags, jewelry and accessories for the fashionable femme in your life. Right next door, at Blink Optical Boutique (524 N. 19th St.), find sunglasses from brands like RayBan, Tory Burch and more.
To give the gift of bling
To wow your recipient with something shiny, try Susan Bella Jewelry (1746 W. Allen St.) or Timothy Zaveri Fine Jewelry (532 N. 19th St.). The former specializes in custom designs, including redesigns of heirloom jewelry. The latter, as evidenced by the “yes” mural painted on the side of its showroom, offers engagement and wedding rings in addition to other fine jewelry.
Jenny’s Gift Baskets (514 N. St. Cloud St.) has more than just baskets: Browse candles, coasters, mugs, stuffed animals and other gift-shop staples. For more offthe-wall finds, the dollar store at the east end of the Allentown Fairgrounds Farmers Market (1825 W. Chew St.) has aisle upon aisle of unique, surprising and sometimes just plain weird treasures.
For the host of your holiday party
Pick up fresh flowers or a plant from Rich Mar Florist (1708 Tilghman St.) or Designs by Maria Anastasia (607 N. 19th St.), both of which sell small gifts as well. An assortment of sweets from Mink’s Candies in the Allentown Fairgrounds Farmers Market (1825 W. Chew St.) is sure to please your host and your fellow guests, should your host choose to share. n
Note: There are many excellent small businesses to support in the West End. This is just a small sampling of them, not an exhaustive list.
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We are #StLukesProud to be recognized ONCE AGAIN as a Top Workplace health care organization locally, regionally, and nationally.
Our employees deserve this recognition as our most valued asset. As an employer of choice, St. Luke’s prioritizes the health and well-being of our employees so they are able to provide the highest quality care and services to our patients. This honor highlights St. Luke’s as an employer who listens to, cares for, and supports its employees. Interested in joining an award-winning organization that ALWAYS puts its employees first?
The Muhlenberg President’s Home — Originally Built for a Prominent Family of Jewish Immigrants
By Susan Falciani Maldonado
Muhlenberg acquired this house on Leh Street as a new residence for its president in 1963. It is currently occupied by the college’s 13th President Kathleen Harring and her husband.
The home was constructed in 1929 for Joseph D. Leonard, cofounder and president of the Charis Corporation, and his wife, Rose Morrison Leonard. The home was built by M.A. Potruch, a significant property developer in Allentown.
The Leonards were Jewish immigrants from Iași, Romania, from whence they emigrated in 1907. Settling in New York, Joseph co-founded the Fifth Avenue Corset Company, which
moved to Allentown in 1921. The abandonment of corsetry in the Roaring ’20s led to Joseph’s development of the “Charis,” a more flexible option, which was sold by saleswomen traveling to homes, rather than in retail locations. The company changed its name in 1928, and built a large office and manufacturing building on Linden Street in 1929.
The Leonards were pillars of the Jewish community in Allentown. Joseph was on the finance committee for the new JCC building in 1928, and served as the JCC’s president in 1929. Rose was a leader in Senior Hadassah, and “The Morning Call” in the 1930s and ’40s is filled with mentions of her hosting events at the Leh Street home.
The Leonards had three children: Ira, Francesca (“Frances”) and Herman. According to the 1930 census, a Black couple, Hattie and Thomas Giles, lived with and were employed by the Leonards. In 1940, it was a Czech couple, Andy and Susie Platchko.
Ira Leonard (1913-1997) followed in his father’s footsteps and became president of Charis Corp. After retirement, he assumed leadership of Judd’s, a men’s clothing store that was located in the Americus Hotel.
Francesca Leonard (1918-2007) married Eugene Raskin. The Raskins were living at the Leh Street home with Francesca’s parents in October 1939 when their son, Michael, was born at Sacred Heart Hospital. By 1946, they returned to Allentown as celebrated folk singers. “Gene and Francesca” wrote “Those Were the Days;” Paul McCartney overheard them perform it in a London club and, remembering it a few years later, arranged its performance by Mary Hopkin.
Herman Leonard (1923-2010), the only child born in Allentown, attended Allentown schools and developed an affinity for
photography at an early age. “The Morning Call” records his return from overseas wartime service in 1945. Herman Leonard became a world-renowned jazz photographer who worked with Billie Holiday, Duke Ellington, Charlie Parker, Louis Armstrong, Miles Davis and Frank Sinatra, as well as with Marlon Brando.
In 1950, the home was sold to Robert and Arra Betty Stoudt; Robert was a principle at H.E. Stoudt & Son, a contracting firm.
In July 1963, Muhlenberg purchased the home from the Stroudt family for $65,000.
Speculation about the purpose of the purchase included the property’s use as a fraternity house, but within a few days the clarification was made as to its future as the president’s residence.
Muhlenberg’s seventh president, Erling Jensen, and his wife, Ruth, moved in in 1964. “The Morning Call” produced a lavish photo spread of the interior.
In 1992, the house was remodeled (under the supervision of Curtis Dretsch, then dean of the college for academic life) before the college’s 10th president, Arthur Taylor, and his wife, Katherine, moved in. n
Shining Stars Among Us
Jewish Day School
Arianna Padin is an 11-year-old (6th grade) at the Jewish Day School of the Lehigh Valley. She lives in Allentown with her mom, dad, 2 brothers, and 2 birds.
Active in the student council, she serves as Student Council President this year. Arianna’s favorite activity is coloring and her favorite school subject is gym. Her favorite part of the Jewish Day School is the fact that everyone is kind and it feels like one big family.
Arianna’s favorite memory of school is meeting her best friends. Chanukah is her favorite holiday because she loves to watch the light of the candles burning.
Trexler Middle School would like to highlight Emmanuel Larrama.
Emmanuel Larrama - (8th grade)
Emmanuel is the definition of a student and community leader. He is an honor roll student who is always willing to help anyone throughout the building. Emmanuel is a member of the Superintendent’s Advisory Team and Student Council. Emmanuel is a great representative of a Trexler student, who exemplifies our BARK expectations
Muhlenberg Elementary School
Laniyah Velez, (5th grade)
She won this month’s You are the Light award as a Trendsetter for being innovative, passionate and empathetic. Laniyah bring positivity and enlightening to all occasions. She’s confident in her decisions and carries herself with poise. She is a talented nurturing bright young women who cares deeply about her school and community. She strives to think of positive ways to give back and involving herself in as many clubs she may participate in which gives her the ability to expand her mind and learn responsibilities. n
Cedar Crest, Muhlenberg Colleges Offer Opportunities for Lifelong Learners
By Meghan Kita
Seniors in the West End need not travel far in their pursuit of knowledge: Both Cedar Crest and Muhlenberg Colleges provide opportunities for older people to take courses at an affordable price.
Cedar Crest recently took over ownership of the Lehigh Valley Institute for Learning in Retirement (ILR), which is open to individuals age 55 and older. These courses are specially designed for seniors and offered only to ILR participants. Many of the instructors are also retired. An individual class may meet only a couple times or several times over the course of about two months. Fees for these courses range from $80 if you’re taking one to three courses in a session and up to $140 per semester to take 10 or more courses. More information can be found at cedarcrest.edu/ILR
“LVILR had a long successful history providing not only educational opportunities to the 55+ community, but also providing a social outlet,”
said Cedar Crest associate vice president for campus operations
Katy Kresge. “As a college, we believe in lifelong learning, growth and development. The focus of this program has always been and will continue to be providing unique opportunities to enrich the lives of our 55+ community. We couldn’t be more excited to continue the mission of this impactful program.”
At Muhlenberg, the Senior Scholars Program, which recently returned after a pandemic hiatus, allows individuals aged 60 and older to audit (that is, take a course without receiving a grade or credit) up to two courses per semester for $150 per course. Senior Scholars can choose from select courses in the catalog and, with permission from the professor, take courses alongside traditional and continuing studies students. The commitment is to attend the course for an entire semester. Learn more about this program at muhlenberg.edu/offices/registrar/ seniorscholarsprogram n
Outten Family Car Dealerships Celebrates 45 Years in the West End
By Meghan Kita
The Outten family of car dealerships, which now has five locations in the Lehigh Valley and beyond, began in 1979 at the intersection of 19th and Tilghman Streets. That location is still there, as a pre-owned vehicle dealership, with a new vehicle dealership and parts and service center a few blocks away at 1701 W. Tilghman St. The expansion beyond Allentown has allowed Outten to provide an expanded selection of new and pre-owned cars to its customers, and folks interested in test-driving needn’t travel: Outten will bring cars from other locations to the West End for potential customers.
buying experience convenient and easy, to maintain high standards for all vehicles that they sell and to work with customers who have credit concerns.
“We love this neighborhood,” said Outten director of digital media Amy Krum. “It’s where the Outten family has chosen to live for three generations. West End is a tight knit community that feels like a suburb, but it’s close enough to downtown to enjoy the city life.” Outten, which offers vehicles from brands including Chevrolet, Kia, Jeep, Dodge, Ram and Chrysler, has been a family-owned business for multiple generations. The owners hope to make the
It’s also important to Outten to be good neighbors. That’s why they sponsor South Parkland Youth Association teams and local schools, partner with local restaurants and food trucks to feed customers at the dealership, and participate in the West End World of Food Festival: “We’re always looking for ways to connect and help out in the community,” Krum said.
Krum encourages West End residents to follow the dealership on social media (facebook.com/ OuttenChevroletAllentown and @OuttenChevyAllentown on Instagram) to stay up to date on special deals and dealership events, including free food for customers and giveaways of gift cards and prizes. n
Muhlenberg Elementary School—West End Educational Treasure
By Ron Epstein
The Muhlenberg Elementary School, on the Southwest corner of 21st and Washington streets., has served students from the 11th and 17th wards of Allentown’s West End for the past 96 years.
The school was named in honor of John Peter Gabriel Muhlenberg, a Lutheran Pastor who served as an officer under George Washington during the Revolutionary War and whose father Henry Melchoir Muhlenberg was the patriarch of the Lutheran Church in the American Colonies. The main building of the school was built in 1928. Originally intended to be a junior high school, the quick surge in population in the area found the need for a new elementary school instead.
The school housed kindergarten thru fifth grade, with sixth graders going to the Jackson School on N. 15th St. between Allen and Liberty.
During the first couple of years, some classes were held at the Redeemer Lutheran Church at 19th and Washington streets.
At the time the West End was a very rural area with no homes yet built west of 22nd St. However, thanks to the efforts of realtors such as Charles W. Kaeppel and Earl S. Kester, the housing market exploded over the next several years, and families moving into the area realized the need for a good school for their children’s education. Muhlenberg satisfied that need.
With some of the best teaching staff, Muhlenberg was considered to be one of the best schools in Allentown.
I attended Muhlenberg from K-5 and discovered the teachers cared deeply about the progress of their students, and were more than willing to offer their assistance when needed.
By the early 1950s, sixth grade classes were added to the school, and in 1954, a two -story
annex housing kindergarten thru second grade was built connecting the back of the main building and extending to St. Lucas St. The annex also houses a “cafetorium,” which is a cafeteria, auditorium and gymnasium all in one. Previously, the students and teachers either brought their own lunches or went home for lunch.
In 1958, because of the need for more fourth and fifth grade classroom space, sixth grade classes were again discontinued at Muhlenberg, with sixth graders now going to the Sheridan School at Second and Liberty streets.
Sixth grade classes returned to Muhlenberg one final time, in the mid-sixties, before being permanently discontinued when sixth grade became part of Middle School.
Many fine principals have served Muhlenberg over the years. Probably the most wellknown and fondly remembered is Dorothy P. Hartman, who served from the 1940s until her retirement in 1971. While she could be stern, when necessary, she was a very caring and understanding administrator who was well liked and respected by all of her students and teachers.
Her successor was Thomas Check, who had served as a science teacher until 1964, when he left to become a sixth-grade teacher at another school. He returned to Muhlenberg in 1971 as principal and served until his retirement in 1993.
He was succeeded over the next 30 years by a succession of Principals including: Cathy Robine, Lynn Reith, Philip Turton, Melissa Smith, Jason Sizemore, Jeffrey Fries, Robert Snyder, Loren Yerger and John-Paul Crescenzo, who, since last year, has been serving as acting principal.
In 2005, the school’s library, originally on the third floor, but now on the first floor, was completely gutted and rebuilt in the summer. Local businesses, through the Alvin H. Butz Co.,
donated all of the materials and labor and Debra Roberson, a partner in the architectural firm donated its services. The new library was dedicated on October 5, 2005.
In 2011, the school celebrated the 300th birthday of Henry Melchoir Muhlenberg, with students and staff learning about his life and visiting Muhlenberg College.
During this period, the enrollment of students at Muhlenberg increased to such an extent that the need arose for more classroom space. The need was fulfilled by the addition of
portable buildings installed in the school’s playground. These buildings house two grade level classes.
Muhlenberg also has the distinction of having educated people who later became famous in life, such as Amanda Seyfried (actress), Deborah Heiligman (author of children’s books), and Laura Jill Miller (actress). And with its excellent teaching staff, it stands to reason that more such gifted people are likely to emerge from Muhlenberg in the future. I think John Peter Gabriel Muhlenberg would be proud. n
Wellness Studio Brings New Services to the West End
By Meghan Kita
Melody Russo, who grew up on the outskirts of Allentown, has lived near the West End Youth Center for 18 years. She loves the neighborhood, and the historic 19th Street Theatre is her favorite building in the entire city. So, when she sought to open a wellness studio, and a space was available right in the Theatre District, it seemed like fate.
“I always wanted to be in the area,” Russo said. “I know what’s there. I know the potential of the West End Theatre District. I want to be a part of that.”
Russo, who has been a licensed hairstylist for 30 years and recently became a certified holistic health coach, got into the space at 626 N. 19th St. about a year ago. She’s been using one room to do her longtime clients’ hair while renovating the others. She recently opened Lotus: Holistic Wellness Studio, which will offer one-onone wellness consultations as well as several wellness services (including foot detoxification, red light therapy and ear seeding, a type of acupressure).
Russo became interested in wellness about a decade ago, after a family member had positive experiences with essential oils. The pandemic made her rethink her career — she tried office work but it “was not my bag,” she said — and she eventually landed on the
wellness studio concept. Russo will participate in the West End Cocktail Trail on Nov. 2, serving a house-made electrolyte wellness drink, to invite the public to visit her space. She’s hoping to add more services as the studio becomes established, including massage, yoga and skin care provided by a holistic aesthetician. The studio will cater to both individuals and small groups. Above all, Russo wants to create a welcoming environment.
“I want you to feel so comfortable and so much like you belong there that you can achieve what you are wanting on your wellness journey,” she said. “I want my guests and my staff to feel like that, to walk in and know you can be completely comfortable.” n
Cut the Scrap!
By Fred Jerant
Creating hand-crafted items has been a popular hobby for decades, and it enjoyed a surge during the pandemic. But regardless of the time period, there’s always been a nagging question: What do I do with the leftovers? An excess number of googly eyes, unused glue, fabric, buttons…a little too much to just throw away, certainly not enough for another project.
Enter Cut the Scrap! located at 735 N. 19th St. Owner Debbie Shand Scheunemann had dreams of opening a craft store since she was in her 20’s. “My mother got me interested in it, starting out with crocheting and knitting. It just crept into my blood.”
After an administrative and engineering career with a water district in California, she and her husband moved to the West End, and she decided it was time to work on fulfilling her dream.
Scheunemann’s goal was to make crafting supplies affordable for everyone. Originally envisioning her new shop to be similar to the Michael’s chain, she eventually zeroed in on a different approach.
“My business is based on accepting unneeded crafts materials from the public. Some people just donate them to me, while others accept a store credit for them. Because about 89% of the items in my store are donated, I can keep my costs low and pass the savings along to the buyers,” she said.
Cut the Scrap! carries paper, stamps, ink, hand embroidery threads and accessories, yarn, pens, pencils, paints of all kinds, artist papers and books, sewing accessories, patterns and fabric.
While much of her inventory is made up of free-standing materials, Scheunemann often assembles her own project kits. “For example, I might start with some rubber stamps, then add ink and a pad, some card stock
and envelopes and bundle it all into a ready-to-go kit.”
Cut the Scrap offers a good alternative to thrift shop donations because, she says, “Thrift shops usually just bag up items and put them out for sale without another thought. But I try to think like a crafter, so when I get donations, I either put them in their allotted space or I bundle similar items together.”
The shop also offers various classes such as mandala painting, card making, painting and kid’s crafts, conducted after the usual store hours. Everyone is welcome, and no experience is necessary, unless noted specifically.
At this writing, Scheunemann’s website was still under development, but her “Cut the Scrap” Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/ groups/413438198131089) lists new items, classes and events.
“I plan to offer online shopping with curb pick up available by the end of this year. And our online shopping service will also offer ‘datenight’ craft boxes. Those will include everything for woodburning, mosaics and other craft projects,” she added.
Debra and her husband, John, moved to the West End in 2013 from San Diego, California.
“I chose the West End for my business simply because I love the West End; I lived near 29th and Greenleaf Streets since we moved here. There’s such a variety of options for dining, entertainment and relaxing in the parks. I just grew to love the area, and when this property became available, I knew I had to have it,”
Cut the Scrap! 735 N. 19th St., Allentown, PA. 18104 (835) 233-3684 call or text cutthescrapcrafts@gmail.com
Hours of operation: Wednesday - Sunday: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. n
PHOTOS BY BILL BASTA
Investing in the West End
By State Rep. Mike Scholssberg
This summer, Senator Nick Miller and I were able to share wonderful news about state investments being made in Allentown’s West End.
The Malcolm W. Gross Memorial Rose Garden is an absolute treasure of outdoor space. The city has made a lot of improvements to remedy issues with soil quality over the past few years, but more work was needed. Senator Miller and I were able to secure more than $200,000 to support maintenance efforts for the pavilions and gazebos at this important park, as well as an additional $130,000 for upgrades to the basketball courts at Cedar Beach Park. After announcing these awards, Senator
Miller and I rolled up our sleeves to help paint one of those gazebos. These are critical investments that will serve Allentown and Lehigh County for generations.
Few places in Allentown are as iconic as the Allentown Farmers Market. Every week, thousands of shoppers, including seniors who can walk a couple of blocks to buy fresh food, make their way to this historic structure. The 135-year-oldbuilding needs significant upgrades, which Senator Miller and I were able to support with $250,000 from the state’s American Rescue Plan funds. n
Where Is It?
Do you recognize the image below? Identify its location in the West End Theatre District and you could win a $25 gift certificate from a restaurant in the neighborhood.
Send your entry by e-mail to michael@drabenstott.com or mail to: M. Drabenstott, 2346 W. Allen St., Allentown PA 18104 By November 22, 2024. One winner will be randomly selected from all the correct entries.
Let’s Stay Connected
My office is located at 5100 W Tilghman Street, Suite 200and is open Monday-Friday. Feel free to stop by or call (610-821-5577)
n Email: RepSchlossberg@pahouse.com
n Online: www.RepSchlossberg.com
n Facebook.com/RepSchlossberg
n Twitter.com/RepSchlossberg
Surrender Unused License Plates to My Office
It is important to know unused license plates may continue to be your responsibility even after transferring the title. This means you may be responsible for anything that happens with that license plate, including things like parking tickets or tolls.
When selling a car, if you don’t plan to reuse the license plate, the safest thing to do is to retain possession of the license plate and return it to PennDOT through my Allentown office. We’ll ensure safe delivery to PennDOT at no expense to you. If you have any questions about a plate you still hold, please give my office a call (610-821-5577).
