Volume 3, Number 3
FALL 2017
West End Living
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WEST END NEWS
Food Fest with us on September 16th Photo by
PER
JAMES COO
favorites. Visitors can enjoy free live performances throughout the day by School of Rock, jazz by the Dan DeChellis Trio, the pulsating Latin rhythms of Angel Merced, pop and rock by Secret Treaty, Photos by Ann Biernat-Rucker
Come fest with us at the West End World of Food festival is right around the corner on September 16, to be exact! This annual celebration of global cuisine attracts thousands of hungry visitors who stroll and munch their way through an array of food trucks, stands, beverage stations, live music, crafts, children’s activities and lots more. The fun starts at 11 a.m. and continues until 10 p.m. along 19th Street between Liberty and Allen Streets. Food varieties include Caribbean, Mexican, Egyptian, European and many local
Lend a Hand
The festival is looking for volunteers to help with set-up, ticket sales, pouring beer and wine, and other activities. Visit http://westendworldoffoodfestival.com to learn more.
IN THIS ISSUE 1 World of Food Festival 2 Contest Information 3 Focus on the Arts 6 New to the Neighborhood
8 Ron’s Ramblings 8 Tree Planting 9 Schlossberger Column 10 Civic News 11 Cleanup Info
12 Veterans’ Healing Garden 13 History of Veterans Day 14 Local News 15 Where is it? FALL 2017 WEST
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Photos by JAMES COOPER
WEST END NEWS
Performance Schedule 11:00 a.m. School of Rock 1:00 p.m. Dan DeChellis Trio 2:30 p.m. Angel Merced 4:00 p.m. Secret Treaty 5:30 p.m. Scott Marshall 8:00 p.m. Nite Flyte
the down-home sounds of Scott Marshall, and pop and dance music from Nite Flyte. Dancing is encouraged. Burn off those calories so you can go back for more! Festival organizers are looking
for volunteers to help with set-up, ticket sales, pouring beer and wine and other activities. More information is available at: westendworldoffood festival.com n
West End n
Living
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West End Alliance, Inc.
PO Box 173, Allentown, PA 18105 PUBLICATION STAFF Editor — Laura McHugh Writer — Frederick Jerant Designer — Publication Design, Inc.
Contests Eating and Dress Your Pet contests are new this year and take place in front of the band shell in between the music performances.
PHONE (610) 437-4941 LOCATION 1801 Liberty Street, Allentown, PA 18104 HOURS M-Sa 11a–2a Su 11a–12a A little something for everyone! 2 WEST END LIVING
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n Bring your pet wearing a costume with an international theme and judging takes place at 2:00 p.m. The $5 registration fee will be donated to Animals in Distress. n The eating contests are later in the day with a $100 gift card awarded to the winners. Who can eat a Ruffino’s pizza the fastest will be at 5:00 p.m. and Wert’s Cafe chocolate cake at 7:30 p.m. The eating contests are limited to 12 individuals, 18 years of age or older. Registration and the $15 fee will be collected at the information booth on the day of the festival.
Photographers — Jane Geist — Hub Willson Editorial Consultant Michael Drabenstott ••• ADVERTISING Neighborhood Coordinator Ann Biernat-Rucker For advertising information, contact Ann at 610-703-8004 annbiernatrucker@gmail.com ••• West End Living is published quarterly by the West End Alliance, Inc. to promote the West End Theatre District. ••• EDITORIAL Editorial suggestions or comments? Contact Laura McHugh at westendlivingallentown@gmail.com ••• West End Living is published quarterly by the West End Alliance, Inc. PO Box 173 Allentown, PA 18105 Publisher assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited manuscripts, photos or artwork. Nothing may be reprinted in whole or in part without written permission from publisher. Printed in U.S.A.
FOCUS ON THE ARTS
Fall into the Arts in the West End Theatre District
514 North 19th Street civictheatre.com 610-432-8943
how the holiday season brings out the best – and the worst – in us all.
Civic Theatre School
Civic Theatre School is open to pre-K to 12th grade students. They don’t just learn how “to act” – they also develop important life skills that help them grow. Students involved in the arts watch less TV and display more tolerant behavior towards others! Classes like those at Civic Theatre help foster positive achievement, collaborative-working and critical-thinking skills. Studies have shown that theatre classes can not only enhance creativity, but help develop skills that assist in learning languages and even mathematics. Classes will take place on Saturdays this Fall, and scholarships are available. Scholarships are available. You can find information about specific classes by visiting http://www. civictheatre.com/cts
Civic Films
There’s sure to be something for everyone in Civic’s grab bag of cinematic treasures. n Twelfth Night (National Theatre Live) September 11, 1 p.m.
Ud
n Citizen Kane (Classic Film Series)
September 14, 7:00 pm Acclaimed as one of America’s greatest motion pictures, Orson Welles’s masterpiece depicts the rise and fall of Charles Foster Kane (a thinly disguised William Randolph Hearst). n Yerma (National Theatre Live)
September 28, 7 p.m. A young woman is driven to the unthinkable by her desperate desire to have a child in Simon Stone’s radical production of Lorca’s achingly powerful masterpiece. Set in contemporary London, Piper’s portrayal of a woman in her thirties desperate to conceive builds with elemental force to a staggering, shocking, climax.
derly
Delicious
n The Secret Garden October 6-22 Based on the beloved Victorian classic The Secret Garden, this Tony award-winning musical version has entranced audiences since its premiere in 1991. This enchanting tale of transformations from darkness to light in the orphaned Mary, the widowed Archibald and the sickly Colin touches the heart and promises hope to those who believe that “if you look the right way, you can see that the whole world is a garden” just waiting to bloom. A charming tale, enhanced by a remarkably beautiful score, The Secret Garden plants the seeds of a magical message that lingers long after one exits the theatre. n A Christmas Carol December 1-16 The classic holiday Lehigh Valley tradition returns to the Civic stage for a 28th year. This timeless tale of Ebenezer Scrooge and his redemption has inspired literally thousands of children and adults to travel with Scrooge as “fellow passengers” on the road to humanity. Join this year’s cast on a journey through the past, present, and future of Scrooge’s Victorian London as the brilliant Charles Dickens spins this magical tale of the true spirit of Christmas. Start your holiday with Tiny Tim’s “God bless us everyone” echoing beneath each snowflake. n The Santaland Diaries December 8-17 Returning for the second year, this outrageously funny one-man play from popular humarist David Sedaris is an alternative holiday celebration about the author’s experiences as an unemployed writer taking a job as an elf at Macy’s in NY. A winking take on
A ship is wrecked on the rocks. Viola is washed ashore but her twin brother Sebastian is lost. Determined to survive on her own, she steps out to explore a new land. So begins a whirlwind of mistaken identity and unrequited love, in a new twist on Shakespeare’s classic comedy of mistaken identity. Simon Godwin directs this new production with Tamsin Greig as a transformed Malvolia and an ensemble cast that includes Daniel Rigby, Tamara Lawrence, Doon Mackichan and Daniel Ezra.
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Civic Theatre of Allentown
Welcome to The Udder Bar, a new way to ice cream. Come enjoy the premium ice cream, sweet treats and just relax, and stay awhile. We are so excited to be able to share our dream with you. The ability for us to create an environment where your family can come together, smile, enjoy conversations, and make memories. We love the experience going for ice cream creates for our family. We want your family to enjoy every second of that as well. Growing up in the West End allows us to connect personally with you. Community involvement and enrichment is dear to us and we want to be able to give back all the good we have received. Let’s celebrate each other, ice cream and all the goodness in the West End Theater District together! See you soon!
Street Cred The Ultimate Ice Cream Task
15 scoops, 9 toppings, whipped cream and of course, a cherry (or a few) and a two-hour time limit. Think you have what it takes? You’ll get the street credz you deserve, a tee shirt and your picture on the ‘Udderly Famous’ wall. Bragging rights!
We would be
Udderly Happy to see you!
Sun–Thurs • 12pm – 9:30pm Fri and Sat • 12pm – 10:30pm
Mike , Hayley, Reis, Kyan and Skylar 1852 W. Allen Street • Allentown theudderbar.com • 484.221.8653
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FOCUS ON THE ARTS
Pines Dinner Theater
448 North 17th Street 610-433-2333 pinesdinnertheatre.com
n “Always…Patsy Cline” September 8 – October 22 Back by popular demand, “Always…Patsy Cline” pays a glorious tribute to the original sweetheart of country music, Patsy Cline. Rising from early jobs in a poultry plant and a soda shop, she became a major country and pop star – only to perish in a plane crash at the age of 30. Featuring dozens of her hits, you’ll think you’re back at one of her concerts. Matinees (12:30 p.m. dinner & 2:00 p.m. show): Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday Evenings (6:30 p.m. dinner & 8:00 p.m. show): Friday and Saturday Ticket Prices: Adult: $25-50 Child: $15-20 Student and senior discounts available.
Jewish Community Center of the Lehigh Valley
construction. Guided instruction by Artists at Heart instructors and materials are provided for every step of the project from start to finish, including glazing. Projects will be dried and fired at the Artists at Heart Studio, and then returned to the JCC in 4-6 weeks.
702 North 22nd Street 610-435-3571 lvjcc.org
Stagemakers Youth Theater
Gallery at the JCC Opening event receptions are free to the community.
n “Mixing Media” July 13-September 8 “Mixing Media” is a collaborative exhibit featuring jewelry by Ann Lalik and photographs by Tom Shillea. All pieces are available for purchase. The exhibit itself runs July 13 through September 8. Opening event receptions are free to the community and include refreshments and live music by the duo “Just So” featuring Mickey Freeman and Jon Fields.
n “Ketubah and Wedding Art”
September 14-October 13 Opening Reception: September 14 6:30-8 p.m. The JCC is looking for your wedding story, as told through images. If you have an artsy Ketubah, or other distinctive wedding Judaica, let us know! We will display these items, along with the stories that make them unique, at an exhibition that will run from September 14 through October 13. n “Barbara Barbour and Pat Delluva”
October 19-December 15 Opening Reception: October 19, 6:30-8 p.m. This exhibit features art by Barbara Barbour, photography and Pat Delluva, printmaking. Exhibit runs through December 15. Opening event receptions are free to the community and include refreshments and live music by the duo “Just So” featuring Mickey Freeman and Jon Fields.
fine dining Where the OWner Wears
an aprOn, nOt a tie!
1926 West Allen street AllentoWn 610-434-2628 henryssAltoftheseA.com
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J-ARTS: Arts and Culture Events n Sculpted Cell Phone Amplifier
August 14, 6:45-9 p.m. Price: $34; JCC members: $28 Create a beautiful and useful, low-tech accessory for your hightech cell phone. The amplifier works without wires or batteries and holds your phone while amplifying the sound. Great for listening to music or audio books. The project uses primarily slab
n Seussical the Musical Jr. November 16-19 Horton the Elephant, the Cat in the Hat and all of your favorite Dr. Seuss characters spring to life onstage in Seussical Jr., a fantastical musical extravaganza from Tony-winners Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty. Choose one of the two audition dates. Participation fee only required upon acceptance of a role. Additional audition material will be available on the JCC website closer to auditions. Auditions: August 28 and 29, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Ages: Pre-K - 12th Grade Call Backs: August 30, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Parent Meeting: August 31, 7-8 p.m. Participation fee: $135; JCC Members: $85 Tickets: $15/Adults, $10/Children; JCC Members: $11/Adults, $8/Children
HAMILTON & Audition Technique Workshop
Meet Andrew Chappelle, star of Broadway’s HAMILTON. In this two session workshop, participants will have a chance to perform a mock audition for Andrew and receive personalized feedback and coaching. In addition, participants will learn a song and dance from the hit show and take part in a Q&A session, photograph, and autograph opportunities. This program is organized by A Class Act NY, the award winning acting studio for kids and teens. October 9 Session 1 (Hamilton) 7 years – Adults
2-4:30 p.m. Price: $145 Session 2 (Audition Techniques) 7 – 19 years 5-7:30 p.m. Price: $95 Price for Both Sessions: $240
J School of Visual and Performing Arts n Masks Art Class Wednesdays September 13 – December 20 4-5 p.m. Price: $225; JCC members: $180 Students will look at different types and shapes of masks, or mold them from their own faces. Once they have decided on the type of mask they want, the children will trace various elements from photos, and then combine these elements to start creating their mask. They will convert their drawing into a 3D model using plaster strips and finishing up with paint and decorations. n Private Voice Lessons Tuesdays- Thursdays September 12– December 21 3:30-6 p.m. Price: $481-656; JCC Members: $385-525 Ages: Kindergarten – Adults 30 minute lessons made by appointment. Students will learn proper vocal technique through personalized instruction, fundamental singing exercises, and expansion of vocal music repertoire. No classes on days the JCC is closed.
n Private Music Lessons (Piano, Guitar, Drums)
Mondays- Thursdays 3:30-6 p.m. September 11 – December 21 Price: $481-656; JCC Members: $385-525 Ages: Kindergarten – Adults 30 minute lessons made by appointment. These lessons are perfect for beginner, intermediate, or advanced level players. No two students learn exactly the same way, nor do they always share the same goals as musicians. Because of this fact, Jeff utilizes a big-picture teaching method that combines weekly private music lessons and each person’s individual goals with a dynamically tailored course of study to optimize the student’s goal achievement and develop both confidence and musicianship. n Private Acting and Auditioning Lessons
Mondays- Thursdays 4-6 p.m. September 11 – December 21 Price: $43.75/lesson; JCC Members: $35/Lesson Ages: Kindergarten – Adults 30 minute lessons made by appointment. Learn the craft and business of acting and auditioning for the stage, film, and television work. Gain self-confidence and find your own unique voice.
Author Series at the J
around the country to schmooze with communal organizations and share their insights gained from years of researching and writing about Jewish life. Now they’ll be here to talk about their new book, “The Whole Spiel,” which was an award winner in the Pennsylvania Press Club’s 2017 Communications Contest. It took First Place in the humor category. Join them for brunch and a talk. You’ll be so farklempt.
n The Word Mavens October 29, 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Price: $10; JCC and KI members: $7 For more than 15 years, awardwinning authors Joyce Eisenberg and Ellen Scolnic (better known as The Word Mavens) have shlepped
n Rebecca Einstein Schorr November 19, 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Price: $10; JCC and KI members: $7 Recent Jewish Book Award winner Rebecca Einstein Schorr will discuss her book, “The Sacred Calling: Forty Years of Women in the Rabbinate” and “This Messy Life,” a blog she created after becoming a reluctant stay-at-home mom. Meet the author and mingle with friends at a brunch preceding the event. n
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Join us for engaging presentations and discussions with acclaimed authors. Each event will include brunch. n Deborah Heiligman October 15, 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Price: $10; JCC and KI members: $7 Award-winning author Deborah Heiligman will return to her native Allentown to speak about her newest book, “Vincent and Theo: The Van Gogh Brothers.” Join us at Keneseth Israel for a delicious brunch followed by the author’s talk and Q&A session.
33-Year Master Jeweler, Phil 610.434. 8001
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1746 W. A llen Street , A ll en town FALL 2017
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NEW TO THE NEIGHBORHOOD
Long-awaited Café Frais to open on Liberty Street
Rumors about the fate of the former Campus Shop at 23rd and Liberty Sts. have swirled for months, and we can finally put them to rest by welcoming a double-barreled new business to that location. Scheduled for opening by the end of September is Café Frais, the first in a planned series of forwardlooking restaurants serving campus neighborhoods and beyond. Developer Jason Lund said Café Frais’s menu will be both varied and unique. Although the menu is scheduled to change regularly, the emphasis will always be on locally sourced fresh ingredients as much as possible. “We want it to be a place where you can go every day, and get something different every day,” said Lund. Café Frais isn’t a simple grab’n’go spot. There are plenty of take-out options, but full meals are on the menu, too. “Our ‘enticement’ section will feature a selection of La Colombe fair trade coffee, various teas,
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W2A Design Group was the architect/designer for the all new Café Frais.
fresh smoothies and juices, fruitinfused lemonade, baked goods and similar items,” Lund said. In the salad section, you select your own mix of fresh greens, and add other ingredients and dressings. Similarly, a build-yourown burrito section lets you create a personalized dish in the usual tortilla wrap or in a bowl.
And if you’re in the mood for some more substantial dining, Café Frais will offer fully prepared meals, such as steak or chicken and two sides to enjoy on-site. Vegetarian options will be available as well. Local chef Tim Howells will oversee all food preparation. Café Frais will offer limited
delivery service and is available for catering and for private parties and other on-site events. The building’s basement will also take on new life as “Campus Stor-IT,” providing safe and secure property storage for residents and students. “Renters will have unlimited access to their property from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week,” Lund said. “It will be protected by door code and individual security-lock systems.” In addition, the building’s top floor has been converted into 1,700 square feet of apartment space. Lund says he chose this location mainly because it fit in with his business model and requires a relatively short commute from his office. “The more I see of this neighborhood, the more I like it. I’m really excited to be part of it,” he said. n Café Frais 2301 Liberty Street 240-650-5298 cafe-frais.com
NEW TO THE NEIGHBORHOOD
West End Theatre District welcomes two new salons
Located next to The Udder Bar on Allen Street, Truth Beauty Salon is a family-friendly salon that offers haircuts for men, women and kids, as well as coloring, highlighting, ombre and balyage, facial waxing, perms and other services. Owner Denise Rountree is a 15-year veteran in the business, having previously worked for Holiday Hair and Glamour Addict. She’s supported by stylists Daniel Tomredle, Shay RollockSerio and Mary Lou Lewis. “I’ve spent my career in the West End,” she said, “And I love this area. Most of my clients are West Enders, too, so it made sense to open my shop here.” Truth is currently offering two
“new customer” specials: partial highlighting or coloring, plus haircut and styling for $55; and full highlighting/coloring plus cut and style for $70. 1850 West Allen Street 484-221-9334 truthbeautysalon.com Hours Tuesday–Friday 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. Saturday–9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday Noon–4 p.m., beginning in September Closed Monday Photos by Jane Geist Photography
Truth Beauty Salon
Sleek Styles revival and expansion. I hope to grow this business just as the District continues to grow.” Sleek Styles 1741 Liberty Street 610-774-9532 s3salon.mysalononline.com/ Tuesday–Wednesday 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. Thursday 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. Friday 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Saturday 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. Closed Sunday and Monday
Photos by Jane Geist Photography
The former Lawrence Roth studio recently emerged as Sleek Styles, a new full service salon owned by former Roth employee Gina Columba-Schmidt Gina spent the past ten years with the Roth organization and launched her business after Roth relocated to 19th Street. “We gave the building a whole new look, inside and out,” Gina said. “We took down walls, installed new flooring. Practically everything is brand new.” The salon offers a wide range of services, including consultations; haircuts, mani-pedis, hair coloring, styling, hair removal, massage, facials and more. Additional staff includes stylist Maryanne Nemeth, nail technician Megan Helsey, and aesthetician Liz Gulick. “I’ve been in the West End for 20 years,” Gina said, “and I’ve always enjoyed the atmosphere here. This is a great location, and I’m pleased to be part of the Theatre District’s
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RON’S RAMBLINGS
Automotive history of 19th & Tilghman streets moved in and was hugely successful. Jack Dankel had opened the Dankel Motor Agency at 228 Tilghman Street in 1930, sold DeSotos in 1931 at Sixth and Tilghman and took over the corner in 1933. Jack Dankel Chevrolet was the West End’s first sizeable business. It eventually took over the southwest corner for used cars and ran the northwest corner as an Esso gas station. “There were garage-door entrances on both the 19th Street and Tilghman Street sides,” Ron recalls. “Customers and employees alike entered from 19th, using separate doors – but the doors led to exactly the same area! I could never figure out why they bothered having two doors.” Dankel remained in the building until his retirement in 1979, when the business was purchased by Philadelphian Willie Outten, who renamed the business Outten Chevrolet. “For some reason, Outten never used the southeast building,” Ron said. “Instead, they set up shop on
Beck and Eck Motors in 1932 (left) and a 1972 ad for cars at Jack Dankel Chevrolet (below).
the southwest corner, with just a little office at the rear.” In the mid-‘80s, Diehl Appliance moved into the building. Instead of gleaming Chevrolets, the large windows displayed the latest washers, dryers, refrigerators and air conditioners. As a curiosity, a circa-1900 washing machine was displayed as well. Early in 1999, the Rite-Aid pharmacy chain planned to buy the property then occupied by Diehl, Luckenbach and Johnson, and a red-brick private home on Utica Street. “Rite-Aid intended to build a mini-mall on the land with RiteAid as the anchor store,” Ron said. “But the company’s profits were down that year, and the deal fell through. The appliance store had
been ready to relocate and suddenly couldn’t. Afterward, Diehl Appliance actually ran a ‘We Wish We Were Moving!’ sale.” Diehl hung on until 2006, when Commerce Bank purchased the same land, demolished everything, and replaced it with its own banking facility. TD Bank now operates there. n
Photos by Ann Biernat-Rucker
The southeast corner of 19th and Tilghman streets has seen plenty of commercial activity during the past 80 years. According to neighborhood historian Ron Epstein, one of the earliest tenants was an auto dealership, owned by Jonas Laubenstein, in 1930. In 1932, that business was replaced by Beck and Eck Motors, an Auburn dealership that had been located around 12th and Liberty. In about a year, that business had moved on as well, replaced by the Cass Motor Company, a used car dealer. Ron explained that those dealers took a substantial risk by locating there. An issue of The Morning Call from 1928 lists Beck and Eck’s phone number simply as 2-8280. “Today, the West End is a major part of Allentown. But in the ‘30s, the area was just beginning to develop,” he said. Few homes were in the area, and the Great Depression was in full swing. It’s likely that the dealers simply couldn’t do enough business to remain. But another automotive tycoon
50 new trees in four blocks With a grant obtained by the City of Allentown, and handson support from neighborhood residents, 50 new trees were planted in June along Allen Street from 17th to 21st streets. In time, they might approach the majesty of the canopy of trees further west on Allen. “As Allen Street developed, the area between 17th and 21st became barren, especially when 8 WEST END LIVING
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compared to the area west of 22nd Street,” said Steve Rohrbach of F.A. Rohrbach. “When the grant money became available, the West End Alliance approached residents with the opportunity to get new trees for their streets. This project was the first phase.” During two weekends in June, about two dozen individuals, including residents, property owners, even people who live
outside the West End Theatre District, donated their “sweat equity” to support the city’s equipment and laborers. “It was a big job,” Rohrbach said, “But we were very productive. We installed 25 trees each weekend, in just four hours each time.” The stretch between 19th and 21st streets was planted with London planetrees, a relative of the sycamores further west. East of 19th, they added numerous American elms, the same species
already in place along 19th Street. In addition to the positive neighborhood impact, the project saved plenty of public money. “We’ve estimated that a private company would have charged about $1,250 for each tree plus one year of maintenance,” Rohrbach said. “Thanks to the grant, and the fine work our volunteers did, we saved $62,500.” Plans include a similar project, tentatively scheduled for the spring of 2018, on Liberty Street. n
Representative Mike Schlossberg: PennDOT Services Available Online PennDOT has a number of online services available to help avoid delays associated with mail and paper work processing as well as services to help navigate around accidents and unexpected delays and even provide first responders with information to help you in an emergency situation. All of this is available at www.PennDot.gov. As always, if you have questions about any PennDOT service or need help accessing these services online, my office is here to help. Simply call, email or stop by my Allentown office. By clicking on the Driver & Vehicle Services, you will be able to: n Renew your license or vehicle registration n Change your address n Become an organ donor n Request a license restoration letter to resolve suspension issues
Emergency Contact Information
PennDOT allows you to upload your emergency contact information to help emergency responders contact a family member or loved on in the event you are unable to speak for yourself. The information provided is stored in a secure database accessible only by law enforcement.
Yellow Dot
The Yellow Dot assists citizens in their “golden hour” of emergency care following a traffic accident when they may not be able to communicate medical concerns. By enrolling and participating, you will be able to place a Yellow Dot sticker on your rear windshield and provide emergency responders with information about your health needs, medication allergies and even the contact information for your doctors.
511 PA
Also online at 511Pa.com, you can access travel conditions on Pennsylvania roadways. This can be particularly helpful during inclement weather, construction season and when there is a major accident which requires an alternate route.
Mobile Apps
PennDOT does offer mobile apps for the PA Drivers License Practice Test, PA Motorcycle Practice Test and 511 PA. All can be downloaded through the app store available for your smart phone. n
Representative Mike Schlossberg
Stay Connected My office is located at 2030 W Tilghman Street and is open Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Feel free to stop by or call 610-821-5577. Email: RepSchlossberg@pahouse.com. Online: www.pahouse.com/Schlossberg Facebook: facebook.com/RepSchlossberg Twitter: twitter.com/RepSchlossberg
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MUSIC LESSONS DONE DIFFERENTLY learn about your instrument ...and yourself
we teach guitar bass drums keys vocals we inspire creativity teamwork condence self-respect community
ALLENTOWN WEST END 621 NORTH 19TH STREET 610-434-ROCK ALLENTOWN.SCHOOLOFROCK.COM
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Civic News
Local companies support Civic Theatre capital campaign, outreach programs
Contributed by Civic Theatre of Allentown
The Provident Bank Foundation and PPL Electric Utilities have contributed to the Civic Theatre’s major capital improvement effort, The Next Act – Setting the Stage for the Future. The Provident Bank Foundation awarded a major grant of $10,000 to the campaign, which has a total goal of $5.5 million. “Civic Theatre is honored to have met the rigorous standards of The Provident Bank Foundation to qualify for this grant,” said Sharon Glassman, Co-Chair of the capital campaign. “We are grateful for the Foundation’s recognition that the arts are fundamental to an improved quality of life for all.” “A vibrant community is the cornerstone of a high quality of life, which is why we selected Civic Theatre as this renovation project is critical to neighborhood economic development,” said Jane Kurek, Executive Director, The Provident Bank Foundation. “We also understand just how important the theatre is to the community, and we want to do everything in our power to ensure it continues to provide educational
and specialized learning opportunities for individuals throughout the Lehigh Valley.” PPL Electric Utilities has awarded $2,500 in Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) funding to the Theatre. These funds will support Civic’s arts and literacy outreach program, subsidized tickets to Civic’s mainstage productions, Civic Theatre School, high school and college internships and job shadowing. It will also help hundreds of area students enjoy live theatre of high standards of artistic excellence and allow students to develop self-expression, discipline and teamwork as well as an appreciation for the art of theatre. “PPL is committed to supporting organizations such as Civic Theatre that are instrumental in fostering creativity among youth,” said Carol Obando-Derstine, regional affairs director for PPL Electric Utilities. “We believe it will help young people become more flexible and imaginative thinkers, and that will ultimately lead to a more creative workforce for the future.” n
Shirley Kline Appointed as Interim Managing Director for Civic Theatre of Allentown Civic Theatre of Allentown has appointed Shirley Kline as Interim Managing Director. She replaces John Hedges, Civic’s Managing Director since October 2015. Shirley will also maintain her position as Civic Theatre’s Development Director. She began her dual role on June 20. Shirley has served as Civic’s development director since October 2015, and has increased Civic Theatre’s individual and corporate support for the theatre’s operations and for its ongoing $5.5 million capital campaign. Shirley has been a longtime advocate for the quality of life in our region. With over 20 years of development and marketing experience, she’s worked with Wildlands Conservancy, Lehigh County Historical Society and, most recently, Lehigh Valley Zoo, where she developed and implemented annual plans to grow revenue through membership, signature events, and guest engagement activities, business partnerships, grants, EITC contributions, individual donations, and other means. n
The Great West End Clean Up Saturday, September 9 Join us for the fall neighborhood clean up on Saturday, September 9. No need to register – just meet at the war memorial on the southeast corner of 19th and Allen streets any time
between 9 a.m. and noon to pick up your supplies. Allentown’s Bureau of Recycling and Solid Waste will provide gloves, trash bags, brooms, butlers and trash-pickers. Hope you can help! n
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VETERANS’ HEALING GARDEN
Garden to foster healing among veterans Lehigh Valley Health Network has launched a new initiative dedicated to helping veterans of all wars heal from trauma and moral injury. The veterans’ healing garden is taking shape in the courtyard of the former Allentown Hospital School
of Nursing near 17th and Chew Streets. It will serve as an extension to the hospital’s ongoing veterans programs, said Eric Johnson, Jr., Network Veteran Health Officer for LVHN. “For years, we have run a peer-to-peer support group for veterans of all wars, and of all service branches,” Johnson said. “They meet weekly, as a way of externalizing their personal narratives, and their shared experiences of trauma and of
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610-433-9370 12 WEST END LIVING
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moral injuries.” There’s no clinical aspect to the meetings, he added, explaining that the vets are helped most by helping each other. The concept of a landscaped outdoor setting sprang from one of the meetings. Although it’s currently still in the construction phase, the garden will provide a safe haven for group discussions, special events, and quiet contemplation away for the bustle of everyday life.
The garden will feature an array of service flags, seating areas, a platform for peer-to-peer meetings and other events, brass service shields and more. The garden is accessible now, and Johnson invites the public to visit it now, or to attend the ribbon-cutting ceremony scheduled for Thursday, November 9. He added that the facility will be open to veterans’ families and the public as well. n
The history of Veterans Day According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, most Americans think Veterans Day is basically a duplication of Memorial Day. It isn’t. Memorial Day honors only those service members who died in service to their country – whether in actual combat, or as a result of battle injuries. But Veterans Day celebrates the bravery and sacrifice of all U.S. veterans. Originally, November 11 was called Armistice Day, a commemoration of the end of World War I, which officially took place on that date in 1918. The national holiday was established via legislation in 1938; over two dozen states were already observing it. November 11 was officially “dedicated to the cause of world peace and to be hereafter celebrated and known as ‘Armistice Day.’” As such, this new legal holiday honored World War I veterans. But in 1954 following World War II and the Korean War, Congress amended that act by substituting the word “veterans” for “armistice,” thus making it a day to honor American veterans of all wars. In 1968, the Uniform Holidays Bill moved the observance date to the fourth Monday of October beginning in 1971. Just four years later, President Gerald R. Ford signed a law which returned the annual observance of Veterans Day to its original date of November 11, beginning in 1978. And it’s been marked on November 11 ever since. n
Parking Spaces Available for Lease National Veterans Day Poster Winner Pictured above is the winning entry in the 2016 National Veterans Day Poster Contest.
Each year the Department of Veterans Affairs’(VA) National Veterans Outreach Office, in conjunction with the Veterans Day National Committee, publishes a commemorative Veterans Day poster. The poster is selected from artwork submitted by artists nationwide and is distributed to VA facilities, military installations around the world across cities and town in our nation. It also serves as the cover of the official program for the Veterans Day Observance at Arlington National Cemetery. Judging for the 2017 contest is underway. You can view other winning posters by visiting the gallery: https://www.va.gov/ opa/vetsday/gallery.asp
18th and Green Streets, Allentown
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LOCAL NEWS
WAHS fundraiser
Paul McCartney Tribute Band Raises Money for Allen Students
St. Luke’s Allentown campus to add 32 beds When St. Luke’s University Health Network constructed a new building at 17th and Hamilton Streets in 2008, its top floor was purposely left empty, although fully fitted with electrical, HVAC and plumbing services. “We knew we’d need the space someday,” said Frank Ford, president of the Allentown campus. “This facility has been growing at the rate of 6% to 7% a year.” “Someday” has become “today.” In June, St. Luke’s began adding 32 single-patient rooms on the fifth floor. “We’ve been part of the network for 20 years,” Ford said. “Our emergency-room and operating-room facilities are extremely busy. Our ER handles 53,000 patients annually, and more and more surgeons are finding that St. Luke’s is a great place to practice. The new rooms will enable us to better accommodate our patients’ needs.” The $8 million project is scheduled for completion by January 1. n
Although most of us will never experience seeing Sir Paul McCartney in concert, the “next-best thing” rolls into town on Saturday, December 9 at 7 p.m. The William Allen High School Alumni Association and the Allentown Academy of Arts Alliance are sponsoring the first U.S. appearance after a tour that includes Canada, the Netherlands, and Germany by The McCartney Years, a tribute show hailed by Beatles promoter Sid Bernstein as “the best on the scene.” The show will also feature an opening set by the Canary Cavaliers, a 20-piece jazz orchestra in the tradition of Count Basie and Duke Ellington, and the William Allen Chorale will accompany The McCartney Years band during “Hey Jude” and “The Long and Winding Road.” “This is a fund-raising event to benefit our students, and every penny we earn stays with the school,” said Bob Sperling, President of the Association. “There are no administrative costs, because everyone’s volunteering.” The McCartney Years recreates many hits and deep cuts by the former Beatle, spanning the decades from the Fab Four to Wings. All music is performed live and is true to the original arrangements. Sperling added that individual and additional corporate donations to help underwrite the costs of the event are welcome. All seats are reserved, and tickets cost $32 and $42 each. Doors open at 6:15 p.m. Tickets: ticketor.com/wahsboxoffice. Information: Bob Sperling 610-398-3527 bsperl8520@aol.com.
College bands march into J. Birney Crum this October If you’re a fan of marching bands, mark your calendar for the 2017 Collegiate Marching band Festival taking place on Sunday, October 1 at J. Birney Crum Stadium. In its 21st year, the festival annually draws more 6,000 spectators and 4,000 performers. Top-notch college bands perform for each other, for enthusiastic crowds and for high school band members contemplating the next level of performance. This year, 20 college bands will perform. They hail from Pennsylvania, New York, Massachusetts, West Virginia, Connecticut, Maryland and Delaware and include local favorites Moravian College and Kutztown University. Advance tickets are on sale now. For more information, visit http://vivaceproductions.com/cmbf/ 14 WEST END LIVING
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Do you recognize this image? Identify its location in the West End Theatre District vicinity 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 October 1, 2017. One winner will be randomly selected from all the correct entries. Congratulations to Stephen Zatko, winner of our summer contest!
Photo by Jane Geist Photography
Where is it?
West End Important Numbers Got a question? Complaint? Safety concern? Just pick up the phone!
Ambulance: 9-1-1 Animal Control: 610-437-7535 City Information Desk: 610-439-5999 Code Enforcement: 610-437-7661 Code Enforcement - Rental Licensing: 610-437-7694 Community Problems (neighbor disputes): 610-437-7773 Crime Prevention Unit: 610-437-7719 Emergency Medical Services (non-emergency): 610-437-7751 Emergency Medical Services (paramedics): 610-437-7531 Fire: 9-1-1 Graffiti Busters: 610-437-8729 Graffiti in Progress: 9-1-1 Housing Compliance/Inspections: 610-437-7697 Leaf Pickup: 610-437-7638 Mayor Ed Pawlowski: 610-437-7546 Noise Complaints: 610-437-7751 Police Calls (emergency): 9-1-1 Police Calls (non-emergency): 610-437-7751 Police - Vice Unit: 610-437-7726 Rental Unit Inspections: 610-437-7695 Sewer Back-up: 610-437-7639 Sewer Emergencies (after hours): 610-437-7751 State Representative Michael Schlossberg: 610-821-5577 Street Lights: 610-437-7735 SWEEP (Bureau of Recycling and Solid Waste): 610-437-8729 Vacant Property Issues: 610-437-7694 Zoning: 610-437-7630 Zoning Violations: 610-437-4360
Polling Places Election Day is Tuesday, November 7. Here’s a convenient list of polling stations in and around the West End Theatre District. You can view a complete list of Lehigh County voting stations and determine the one that serves your area by visiting lehighcounty.org. Allentown 11th Ward 3rd District Emmanuel United Church of Christ 1547 Chew Street
Allentown 17th Ward 1st District Jewish Community Center 702 North 22nd Street
Allentown 11th Ward 4th District Muhlenberg College Seegers Union Bluiding 2400 Chew Street
Allentown 17th Ward 2nd District Jewish Community Center 702 North 22nd Street
Allentown 11th Ward 5th District Redeemer Lutheran Church 802 North 19th Street Allentown 11th Ward 6th District Calvary Moravian Church 948 North 21st Street Allentown 11th Ward 7th District Christ E C Church 2135 Tilghman Street Allentown 13th Ward 4th District William Allen High School (Phys Ed Center/Ramp) 1740 Turner Street
Allentown 17th Ward 3rd District Congregation Sons of Israel 2715 Tilghman Street Allentown 17th Ward 4th District First Presbyterian Church 3231 Tilghman Street Allentown 18th Ward 1st District Union Terrace School 1939 Union Street Allentown 8th Ward 4th District B’NAI B’RITH House (Community Room) 1616 Liberty Street FALL 2017
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