SUMMER 2021
www.westendallentown.com
Volume 7, Number 2
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Is West End Allentown the Best Lehigh Valley Neighborhood for Ice Cream?
key part finally How about put it out of white chocolate commission. raspberry Currently, all cashew? of the Ritz’s Chocolate chip ice cream espresso? Shoois made by fly pie? “We’ve Scoopendorf’s also brought Ice Cream back teaberry Company in ice cream,” Walnutport, Fuentes says, which follows “a bright pink all of the concoction original recipes that tastes like Ritz • White Chocolate Raspberry Cashew precisely and wintergreen.” uses locally sourced ingredients For decades, the Ritz made whenever possible. its own ice cream on-site, but “We’re also developing new its ancient machine was heavily flavors,” Fuentes added. “We water-damaged during the 1998 will have peach ice cream for the fire there, and the breakdown of a PHOTOS BY JANE GEIST PHOTOGRAPHY
It’s hard to beat ice cream as a summertime refreshment, and the West End Theatre District has several nearby places to grab some high-quality frozen treats— especially given recent news on two fronts. (You might call it a “double scoop.”) With the recent re-opening of the Ritz Barbecue in the Allentown Fairgrounds, the restaurant has resumed offering up to 40 flavors of ice cream, all made according to its original recipes. And yes, its signature flavor, butter brickle, is back. Never heard of it? You’re not alone. “I hadn’t heard of it until I started working here,” says the Ritz’s ice cream manager Shanel Fuentes. “It’s a buttery flavored base, with crunchy bits of toffee mixed it. It’s one of our biggest sellers— many people buy it by the quart, and we go through about 18 gallons of it every week.” Of course, old standbys such as chocolate, vanilla and strawberry are on the menu, along with more modern varieties (moose trax, cookies and crème, and fudge brownie dough). But the Ritz also offers flavors you’ll never see at your local grocery store.
IN THIS ISSUE 1 Ice Cream? 3 Focus on the Arts 5 Eat Your Backyard 6 Bargains Abound 7 Banking News
8 Earth Day Volunteers 8 Yard Sale 9 Food Festival 9 St. Patrick’s 5K 10 Top Health Award 11 Students of Note
summer, as well as a chocolate raspberry flavor with pieces of Godiva chocolate mixed in. And at Easter, we offered cakebatter flavored ice cream that had colored sugar-cookie pieces swirled into it.” The Ritz serves it up in cups and cake or waffle cones (with nearly two dozen toppings), or you can choose to have it in a sundae, milkshake, cookie-based sandwich or banana split. Not in the mood for ice cream, but still craving something frosty? The Ritz also offers two flavors of water ice, chocolate-dipped bananas and other novelties. Just a block or two away, you’ll find the Udder Bar, home to more 40 flavors—which the ice cream operation started making themselves within the last year. “Making it ourselves gives us complete control over the ingredients we use and the quality of the finished product. It’s also as fresh as you can get—ours is never more than 48 hours old, while grocery store ice creams may have been sitting around for weeks before you buy it,” says co-owner Mike DeLong. DeLong’s production equipment
12 New Playground 13 Ron’s Ramblings 14 Bug Out 14 4 Bugs 15 Representative Schlossberg SUMMER 2021
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COVER STORY
co-owner Lyell Scherline, “and we often sell it in sandwich form, using our house-made cookies. We make them to order, so customers can mix the cookies with a particular flavor. They’re made with two or three scoops of ice cream, and usually weigh about a half-pound. “But we wanted a signature flavor, too, and we like to
Ice Cream
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Your Frozen Treat Decoder
PHOTOS BY JANE GEIST PHOTOGRAPHY
says. “It’s a vanilla base, with pieces of real cinnamon buns and caramel mixed in.” Other distinctive flavors include banana peanut butter, peanut butter s’mores, dulce de leche, rum raisin, red velvet, kettle corn and peanut butter and Udder Bar • Tandy Kake jelly. The more typical flavors are available is sited at the front of the shop, so as well, along with about a halfeveryone can watch the process. dozen flavors of water ice. The “We’re also able to develop our Udder Bar is an accommodating own flavors,” he says, “such as shop, too, offering some nonchocolate covered bacon; Nutella dairy/vegan options. cookie, with Oreo bits added; and One of its newest presentations ‘Banilla’—that’s banana ice cream is the “bubble waffle.” Picture a and vanilla wafer cookies.” pancake that looks like bubble Best sellers at the Udder Bar wrap, and you’ll be close. “We include caramel salted pretzel fold it into a cone holder, add ice (mixing sweet, salt and savory cream, sauces and other desired tastes), chocolate fudge and Oreo toppings and serve,” DeLong says. “dirt”, and cinnamon bun. “No The family-owned store is a one else has that flavor,” DeLong good community neighbor as well, supporting local charities such as Community Bike Works, animal shelters, food drives and other programs. “We also help with fund-raisers for schools, churches, Scouts and other organizations,” he says. But there’s one special Udder Bar flavor that is not available at the shop. Instead, you need to visit Jay’s Local to enjoy it. “We sell chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry from the Udder Bar,” says Jay’s Local Jay’s Local • Ice Cream Sandwich
collaborate with other local merchants. So we asked Mike at the Udder Bar to help us, and we developed a ‘funny cake’ flavor. You can’t find it anywhere other than Jay’s Local.” So what’s the big appeal of ice cream overall? “It’s an affordable treat, and it makes people happy. That’s one of the reasons I went into this business!” DeLong says. n
If you want to venture beyond a vanilla cone, the choice of icy treats can be confusing. Here’s a quick run-down on some of the more common types. Sorbet is made from just fruit and sugar – no dairy at all. Sherbet (not “sherbert”) is essentially sorbet that contains a bit of milk. Granita is often made from fruit, sugar and water. Instead of being churned, it’s frozen in a pan and scraped repeatedly as it freezes, becoming snowy ice crystals. Gelato resembles ice cream, but is made with a bit less milkfat (ice cream must contain at least 10% by law) and has less air churned into it – so it’s denser. Frozen yogurt basically swaps out milk and cream in favor of yogurt, and is otherwise made just like ice cream. Italian ice is made from sugar, water and all sorts of flavorings. It’s related to sorbet, granita and sherbet, but contains no dairy. So-called “water ice” is a particular form of it. n
Thank You to our West End Alliance Cornerstone Partners 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.
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West End Alliance, Inc.
PO Box 173, Allentown, PA 18105 www.westendallentown.com PUBLICATION STAFF Editors — Paul & Meghan Kita Writer — Frederick Jerant Copy Editing —Sara Muir Designer — Publication Design, Inc. Photographers — Jane Geist — Hub Willson Editorial Consultant Michael Drabenstott
ADVERTISING Managing Director 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 us at
westendlivingmagazine@gmail.com ••• 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
It’s (Finally) Time to Do Things Again! Here are best classes, shows, presentations, and installations from around the neighborhood this season. Get out there and celebrate! (If you’re fully vaccinated, of course.)
At the Jewish Community Center
At the Civic Theatre
n Buyer & Cellar Alex More has a story to tell. A struggling actor in L.A., he takes a job working at the mall in Barbra Streisand’s Malibu basement. One day, the Lady Herself comes downstairs to play. It feels like real bonding in the basement, but will their relationship ever make it upstairs? (For mature audiences). The show is free but donations are appreciated. Please enter discount code ‘FREE’ at checkout June 18 and 19 (virtual show, streaming) at 7:30 PM (both nights) n They’re Playing
Our Song
A funny, romantic show about an established composer and his relationship with a zany aspiring young female lyricist. At work and at play, this is a winning couple whose professional and personal successes and difficulties lead to one hilarious scene after another. Important note: We will follow contemporaneous capacity limits for this live, indoor event. Adults: $30; Students/Seniors 60+/Military: $27 July 23, 24: 7:30 p.m.; July 25: 2:00 p.m.; July 30, 31: 7:30 p.m.
Fine Dining
At the Pines Dinner Theater
n Under the Boardwalk Head back to the beach with Cindy, Betty Jean, Rhonda, and Melissa as they reunite as friends and as a vocal group, for the first time in years. When they’re asked to perform a concert they discover that the things that drove them apart are the same things that pull them together. May 14 to June 20
n Private Music Lessons The JCC offers piano, guitar, and drum lessons as well as voice lessons. Students will learn proper technique through personalized instruction, fundamental exercises, and expansion of music repertoire. Contact Brenda Finberg, program director, at 610.435.3571 or bfinberg@lvjcc.org for availability before registering.Visit lvjcc. org/musiclessons for more information. Mon. through Fri., 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Ages: 5+
Per lesson: $50; JCC members: $35 n Stagemakers Theater Camp:
Frozen Jr.
Campers commit to this three-week theater experience with instruction in voice,
n Dirty Rotten Scoundrels
Sophisticated and suave, with a good dash of mischief, this hysterical musical comedy based on the popular 1988 MGM film, features two con men in the French Riviera. July 2 to Aug. 22 Show schedule (both shows): Select Wednesdays and Thursdays: 12:30 p.m. dinner, 1:30 p.m. show Fridays: 6:30 p.m. dinner, 7:30 p.m. show Saturdays: 6:30 p.m. dinner, 7:30 p.m. show Sundays: 12:30 p.m. dinner, 1:30 p.m. show Adults: $30; Children (2-12): $20
fine dining Where the OWner Wears
an aprOn, nOt a tie!
1926 West Allen street AllentoWn 610-434-2628 henryssAltoftheseA.com SUMMER 2021
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FOCUS ON THE ARTS (continued)
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dance, acting, and costuming followed by a showcase of their talents in two full performances. Whether your child has been in a production with us before or longs to perform on the stage for the first time, our knowledgeable theater experts will help your child to build confidence and teamwork skills in a positive environment. To learn more about summer camp at the JCC, visit lvjcc.org/camp or contact Kristen Johnson, Youth & Camp Director, at 610.435.3571 or kjohnson@lvjcc.org. June 21 through July 9, 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Open to grades: K through 6 Price per week: $315; JCC member: $285 n Jewish Film Nights Join other film fans via Zoom to gather and discuss a Jewishinterest film. Watch the films at your convenience and then join us for the discussion (limited to 30 participants). No fee, but advance registration is required. For more information, visit lvjcc.org/film or contact Brenda Finberg. June 8 and 29, July 20, August 10 and 31, 7:30 p.m. n Art Camp Our crafts expert will lead campers to develop their ideas through experimental, creative, and expressive art projects. Campers will explore unconventional art materials and learn new crafting methods while making friends and firing up their imaginations in this supportive creative environment. To learn more about summer camp at the JCC, visit lvjcc.org/camp or contact Kristen Johnson. August 9 through 13, 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Grades: 1 through 6 Price: $355; JCC member: $325 n Challah Club Afterschool Cooking Program
Dip into the culinary arts as you experiment with fun flavors, cool toppings, and unique braids/ shapes to make your very own
challah. Each class will make one challah to bake at home, and dough to practice making challah for the following week. Virtual pricing includes ingredient pickup box (contains perishables) for following along at home. Visit lvjcc.org/challahclub or contact Ally Wiener-Avraham, Jewish education coordinator, at 610.435.3571 or awiener@lvjcc.org for more information or to register. June 3, 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Ages: 5+ (families welcome) Price per class: $12; JCC members: $10 n Baking Camp Working with experienced bakers and cake decorators, your child will also be reinforcing his or her knowledge of fractions, measurement, and basic science when baking from scratch. To learn more about summer camp at the JCC, visit lvjcc.org/camp or contact Kristen Johnson. June 12 through July 16: 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Grades K to 6 Price: $355; JCC Member: $325 n Pastry Art Camp Baking up both sweet and savory creations, kids will learn how important it is to measure precisely and the role that flour, sugar, and butter play in the baking process. This new offering pairs our experienced baking specialists with kids who love learning and becoming more knowledgeable in the kitchen. To learn more about summer camp at the JCC, visit lvjcc.org/camp or contact Kristen Johnson. August 2 through 6,| 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Grades: 1 to 6 Price: $355; JCC Member: $325 n
EAT YOUR BACKYARD
Designs by
Herb Growing Tips from a Master Gardener more water,” Hassani said. “Water evaporates faster from potted plants.” One other note: “Your pots can get very hot as well, hot enough to damage the roots,” she adds. “You can protect them by placing your potted plant inside an empty, larger pot, which will act as a buffer against heat.” Although some types of plants can be fussy, most herbs are lowmaintenance. “Basil needs to be pinched back from time to time,” Hassani said, “and dill or cilantro will start blooming after a month or six weeks of growth, so you’ll
Chives & Garlic Chives
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PHOTOS BY R. AYERS
Growing your own herbs doesn’t require a lot of effort, or even a lot of space—some apartment dwellers grow them on windowsills, says Nadia Hassani, a certified Master Gardener who volunteers through the Penn State Extension. And the benefits are many. “Anything you grow yourself will be 10 times fresher than what you find in stores, even at farmers’ markets,” Hassani said. “And you can grow them organically. Herbs usually aren’t too susceptible to pests and diseases, but the ones you find in stores will likely have been treated somehow.” There’s also a benefit when it comes to cooking. “Instead of trying to hunt down fresh tarragon and garlic chives, for example, you could try growing them at home from seeds or plants,” she said. You’ll have a ready supply, any time you need them. No more grocery store hopping to see if any of them carry the herb you require. And if you’re fond of herbal teas— mint, bee balm, sage, chamomile—try steeping leaves that you’ve grown and dried yourself. Dried lavender also makes a wonderful sachet. If you want to try growing your own, remember that herbs tend to prefer full sun (up to eight hours each day) and good drainage. And you don’t need a huge bed; many herbs are readily grown in pots. “Just be sure to give them
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have to trim them off.” On the other hand, those herbal blossoms can be pollinator magnets, she said. Oregano flowers, for example, are especially attractive to bees. While most herbs require little feeding, you’ll likely need to boost those that you cut frequently, such as chives and parsley. Hassani suggests looking for a complete or balanced fertilizer that’s blended for vegetables and other edibles. And be willing to experiment, she says. “Not every plant does well everywhere,” she points out. “Even if you do everything right, you can still fail. Try planting a variety of herbs and see what happens. Even if you plant 10 and lose four, you’ll still have six.” For more information on growing your own herbs, visit https://extension.psu.edu/growingherbs-outdoors n SUMMER 2021
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BARGAINS ABOUND
Eat your way around the world for about $5 at the Allentown Fairgrounds Farmers Market! By Damien C. Brown, Hungry West End Resident
We have all been compelled to develop new routines over the last year. For many of us that includes working from home here in the West End. If you are working from home and need an ergonomic stretch and reasonably priced lunch, I highly recommending heading over to the Allentown Fairgrounds Farmers Market. There are many great options for budget conscious bargain-hunting foodies in the neighborhood. Below is a sample of some of the many great meals you can walk away with for about five bucks at the market! For the Early Riser Ben & Co. Café – Egg & cheese on a bagel: $5.00
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s er xt m o to ne ! t s d r t cu a u n e this F yo tme im F in t t tion O po s r Fi en 10% d ap m e e l v ei edu c re sch
PHOTOS BY R. AYERS
Mary Ann Donuts & Heffelfinger’s Coffee - Two Donuts (from Mary Ann’s): $2.00 and a small cup of freshly made gourmet coffee (from Heffelfinger’s): $2:00
Hot Lunch Charlie K’s Pizza - Two slices of cheese pizza & and bottle of water: $4.95
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Dan’s Bar-B-Que - Ham Barbecue sandwich: $5.99 or a Crispy Chicken sandwich: $5.99
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Newswanger’s Sausage Sandwiches - Sausage on a roll: $5.00 or a Cheesesteak Sandwich: $6.00 Sweet’s Mexican Grill & More - Empanadas (beef, chicken, or vegetarian): $2.75-$3.00
Billy’s Soft Pretzels - Jumbo Hot Dog pretzel: $3.00 or a Cheesesteak Pretzel w/ sauce $5.00 Loan’s Vietnam Bistro - Cha Gio (Crispy Pork & Shrimp rolls served with vegetables): $5.25 Cold Lunch on the Go Gannon’s - Cobb Salad w/ chicken: $4.95 LuLu’s Family Kitchen Italian Hoagie: $5.00 or a Chicken Salad Sandwich: $5:00 Bee Lee Sushi - Pork Dumplings (will need to heat up): $5.00 n
BANKING NEWS
QNB Bank Donates $40,000 to Local Education Organizations QNB Bank recently donated $40,000 to local education organizations through the State of Pennsylvania’s Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) program. The program awards tax credits to businesses for contributions to Educational Improvement Organizations. Since 2017, QNB has donated $192,750 through the program. For 2021, QNB donated to the following 17 organizations: Allentown School District Foundation, Allentown Symphony Association, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Bucks County, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Lehigh Valley, Boy Scouts of America - Minsi Trails Council,
Bucks County Community College Foundation, Camelot for Children, Centennial Education Foundation, Communities in Schools of the Lehigh Valley, Inc., Flint Hill Farm Educational Center, Inc., Lansdale Library Association, Lehigh Carbon Community College Foundation, North Penn School District Educational Foundation, Touchstone Theatre, Upper Perkiomen Education Foundation, Valley Youth House Committee, Inc., and YMCA of Bucks County. QNB is a full-service community bank that has provided exceptional personalized banking services to individuals and businesses since 1877. With assets
of approximately $1.5 billion, QNB currently operates twelve branches in Bucks, Montgomery
and Lehigh Counties. More information about QNB is available at QNBbank.com. n
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SUMMER 2021
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WEST END EVENT t a e r G e h T d n E t Wes Sale Yard th 5 E N JU
Litter No Match for Earth Day Volunteers About two dozen neighbors of the West End Theatre District—as well as a few “outlanders”— marked Earth Day 2021 by participating in a threehour neighborhood clean-up on April 24. The group also re-mulched the recently planted trees along Liberty St. Allentown’s public works department provided brooms, butlers, pickers, and other tools for collecting trash, recyclables, and other litter. Mayoral candidate Matthew Tuerk chipped in fresh doughnuts from neighborhood favorite Mary Ann Donut Kitchen, and Jay’s Local donated coffee and hot chocolate to the volunteers. Special thanks go out to Steve Rohrbach, chairman of the West End Alliance’s Beautification Committee, for his efforts in organizing this successful event. The next neighborhood clean-up will likely take place in September. n 8 WEST END LIVING
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PHOTOS BY JANE GEIST PHOTOGRAPHY
Score Great Stuff at Huge Neighborhood Yard Sale In the mood for a treasure hunt? Then plan on wending your way through The Great West End Yard Sale between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. on June 5. Participants will display their wares in front of their homes, and you can find a list of addresses (and some of the items for sale at each location) at westendallentown.com. West End brick-and-mortar businesses are also getting in on the action. Many of them are expected to offer special deals on that day. n
TS UPDATE The West End World of Food Festival Returns! The West End Alliance has announced that the West End World of Food Festival will return on Sept. 18, from noon until 11:00 p.m. This celebration of Allentown’s diverse cultural community hosts eclectic food vendors, live musical acts, draft craft beer, wine vendors, local artists, and crafts for the kids—not to mention eating contests. Check in at westendworldoffoodfestival.com for updates and additional information. There are still spots for vendors; you can download an application from the website as well. Please be aware: Covid protocols for outdoor events will be enforced. n
On June 27, the Irish Spirit will be Alive and Well in the West End of Allentown Eclectic food vendors, live musical acts, draft craft beer, wine vendors, local artists, and crafts for the kids—not to mention eating contests and much much more!
Delayed by restrictions due to COVID-19, the 2021 West End St. Patrick’s 5k has been rescheduled for the last Sunday in June. And without the traditional St. Patrick’s Parade taking to the streets of the West End, the race location has been changed to the Allentown Fairgrounds property. Hundreds of runners are expected to run 3.1 miles along a serpentine course through the Fairgrounds property. Participants will be able to choose from a common start with fellow runners at 9 a.m., or complete the route with more physical distance by starting any time before 10:30 a.m. Timing chips on runners’ bibs will track when they cross the start and finish lines.
Runners who registered for the 2020 race, which was cancelled, will be offered a discount code that reflects race costs that were not incurred last year. “We’re encouraging runners to bring their family and friends and celebrate the spirit of St. Patrick’s in their costumes and green garb,” said Michael Drabenstott, race director. “We will offer a fun, festive and safe experience for every participant.” Proceeds from the race benefit continued revitalization and beautification of the West End Theatre District. For more information and registration: westendstpats5k.com n SUMMER 2021
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TOP HEALTH AWARD
St. Luke’s Named Among Top 15 Health Systems Nationwide Network Also Achieves Multiple 100-Top-Hospital Designations, including #1 Major Teaching Hospital in the Country. St. Luke’s University Health Network is a first-time winner of the prestigious 2021 15 Top Health Systems award, part of the Watson Health 100 Top Hospitals national benchmarks series. St. Luke’s is the only health system in the Lehigh Valley to receive this honor – and one of only two health systems in Pennsylvania. IBM Watson Health has identified the top health systems in the United States through a rigorous, objective evaluation of 324 health systems with multiple hospitals. The annual top health system list, published by Fortune, was established in 2009 to identify top performance benchmarks for fully integrated health systems and to motivate better performance across the health care industry. It recognizes excellence in, among
other measures, clinical outcomes, patient experience and operational efficiency through effective system integration. For the first time, this year’s ranking also introduces a measure of hospitals’ contributions to community health with a focus on equity. Developed by a team of experts at the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Equity and the Bloomberg American Health Initiative at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, it is based on three components: 1) assessing hospital contributions to community health as a provider of critical services for community health and preventive care; 2) identifying ways that hospitals contribute to community health as a community partner teaming up
with local organizations to implement critical programs; and 3) focusing on ways that hospitals promote community health through their practices as anchor institutions supporting local economic and social progress. Many health care “systems” in this country do not operate as actual systems; rather, their various components – hospitals, service lines, practices, information technology, electronic medical records, human resources, etc. – largely operate independently, explained St. Luke’s University Health Network President and CEO Rick Anderson. In contrast, St. Luke’s success is a direct result of a legitimate, thorough integration, providing patients with a seamless and consistent patient and clinical experience in all of the Network’s 12 hospitals and more than 300 outpatient locations. “The IBM Watson 15 Top Health System award recognizes St. Luke’s University Health Network’s ability to provide fully integrated services and the highest level of quality care at a lower cost than any hospital network in our region. This recognition is especially significant at this time, considering the vital and fundamental role of health systems in the battle against COVID-19,” Anderson said. “I am proud of and grateful for the efforts of our outstanding physicians, nurses and our entire team, including their dedication and commitment to superior patient care during this challenging time.” #1 Nationwide in the Major Teaching Hospital Category In addition to the 15 Top Health Systems recognition, individual St. Luke’s campuses won IBM Watson Health 100 Top Hospital awards for the ninth time: St. Luke’s University Hospital, Bethlehem and Allentown campuses, for the seventh time in a row and the ninth time overall in the
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Major Teaching Hospital category. THIS YEAR ST. LUKE’S UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL WAS RANKED #1 IN THE COUNTRY IN THE MAJOR TEACHING HOSPITAL CATEGORY – #1 IN THE COUNTRY! St. Luke’s Anderson Campus in Bethlehem Township for the third time in a row (in the Medium Community Hospital category, one of 20 hospitals in the country). St. Luke’s Miners Campus in Schuylkill County for the first time (in the Small Community Hospital category, one of 20 hospitals in the country). IBM Watson Health 100 Top Hospitals, conducted annually since 1993, is unarguably one of the health industry’s most prestigious honors. Unlike many other health care awards, IBM Watson Health awards are based entirely on an independent, scientific review of objective data. IBM Watson Health researchers evaluated 2,675 short-term, acute care, non-federal U.S. hospitals. All research was based on the following public data sets: Medicare cost reports, Medicare Provider Analysis and Review data, and data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Hospital Compare website. Hospitals do not apply for awards, and winners do not pay to market this honor. These prestigious recognitions demonstrate St. Luke’s ongoing commitment to prioritize PATIENT-CENTERED CARE. St. Luke’s University Hospital is the only hospital in the region ever named one of the nation’s 100 Top Hospitals in the Major Teaching Hospital category. n
STUDENTS OF NOTE
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School Days, School Days! Muhlenberg Elementary Isaiah Sosa Fifth-grader Isaiah Sosa is student who meets challenges head on at Muhlenberg Elementary. He is always willing to do his best and is a great role model for his peers. He works well with all of his classmates, often taking on leadership roles in small groups and with partners. Isaiah completes all of his work to the best of his ability and looks for enrichment opportunities.
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and kept trying!” she says. Illianna has taken on a leadership role in “Heart and Sole,” Girls on the Run’s middle school program that meets the unique needs of girls in 6th-8th grade.
He is a wonderful math student and completes several activities a grade level ahead. Muhlenberg is proud and grateful to have Isaiah as part of their school! Trexler Middle School Illianna Williams Illianna Williams has been a STAR student at Trexler Middle School during the virtual school year. The seventh-grader has maintained an “A” average in all subjects throughout virtual school, and is excited to return the school every Thursday and Friday for the remainder of the school year. Illianna enjoys all of her teachers and is looking forward to meeting them in person when she returns. She has maintained perfect attendance for the 20202021 school year. Illianna is a great example of a STAR student at Trexler Middle School. Even though she wasn’t sure how she’d fare at Trexler—her first year at the school, plus virtual learning— “I just never gave up
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William Allen High School Lourdes Maria Payano Social studies teacher Matt Rohrbach wishes to recognize Allen HS junior, Lourdes Maria Payano, who epitomizes the qualities of a William Allen Canary.
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Lourdes is a hard-working student that truly treasures the pursuit of knowledge. She has an innate sense of leadership that shines both in her interpersonal relationships as well as in the classroom environment. Her positivity attitude is contagious. In addition to being a wonderful asset to the classroom, her passion for her community and her caring for others truly embodies the core values of William Allen and Allentown. n
Equity Choice is a variable rate line of credit secured by your primary residence. Borrow up to 80% of your home’s equity, subject to credit approval. Annual Percentage Rates (APRs) accurate as of 4/15/2021. Rates subject to change. The maximum APR is 18%. The Annual Percentage Rate may vary. Borrower must pay mortgage satisfaction fees at loan termination. Property insurance is, and flood insurance may be, required. The maximum line amount is $500,000. Other rates and terms are available. 1 2.25% Intro-Rate APR applies to new home equity lines of credit up to 80% LTV. Existing QNB loan customers require refinancing existing balance with additional $5,000 in new money to avoid fees and earn the promotional rate. 2.25% APR applies for billings cycles through 12/31/2021. Intro-Rate offer expires 6/30/2021, subject to change. 2 After the expiration of the Intro-Rate, with automatic payment from a QNB checking or savings account, the APR will be based on the Prime Rate as published in the Wall Street Journal - currently 3.25% APR. Without automatic payment, the APR will be based on the Wall Street Prime Rate plus 0.50% - currently 3.75% APR. NMLS: 781724
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GIVE A LITTLE
Muhlenberg Elementary Raising Money for New Playground As many neighbors may have noticed, Muhlenberg Elementary Center’s playground equipment has been around for … awhile. “It was installed in 1990, when I was in sixth grade there,” says Jeffrey Fries, Principal of Muhlenberg Elementary. School staffers Wendy Gross and Jen Serrao have spearheaded a multi-year effort to raise money to pay for the playground’s pending replacement. The two have helped raise money through bake sales, Christmas ornament sales, and other endeavors, including raising more than $10,000 on the Donor’s Choose platform—the maximum allowed by the fundraising website. “We’ve already raised a significant portion of the funds needed for this important neighborhood project, but we still need as much as $10,000 more for its completion,” Fries says. “We welcome donations of any amount from neighborhood residents and other parties.”
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As for the existing playground, Fries says that the gear isn’t unsafe yet, but could be if it continues to deteriorate. And as Covid restrictions ease and students return to in-person instruction, Fries says he expects regular use of the new equipment as kids get outside for mask breaks, fresh air, and just burning off some energy. Fries says that donors can send checks payable to “Muhlenberg Elementary School Playground Fund” to his attention at the school, or directly to the Allentown School District Foundation, which is administering the funds. n
1850 West Allen Street, Allentown
484-221-9334 12 WEST END LIVING
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Muhlenberg Elementary School 740 N 21st St. Allentown, PA 18104
Allentown School District Foundation 31 South Penn Street P.O. Box 328 Allentown, PA 18105
RON’S RAMBLINGS
Allentown Has a Long History With Food Trucks—of a Different Kind By Ron Epstein
Sampling of Some of the West End Food Trucks
PHOTOS BY JANE GEIST PHOTOGRAPHY
came about twice or thrice a week. Home deliveries of meat, eggs, fruit and vegetables were common back then as well. In the early part of the 20th century, Peter Jamin owned a butcher shop at 441 Ridge Ave. With his horse and wagon, he traveled around the city delivering choice beef, veal, mutton, lamb, pork, and a variety of sausages. In the 1950s the Terminal Market located on the Northwest corner of Hamilton and Race St. delivered meats, vegetables, frozen foods, and other groceries around town. Also, in the ‘50’s an unnamed man, driving a 1956 GMC pickup truck, delivered fruits and vegetables around town. He carried tomatoes, cabbages, onions, chives, cantaloupes, small watermelons, radishes, and carrots by the bunch, along with a scale to weigh them. He came once a week, usually on a Wednesday night, until September. West End residents tell of a vendor in a pickup truck delivering different food items, such as fruits and vegetables one day, and bread and meat items the next. If someone needed the item he carried that day, they needed only to go outside when he came, and made the transaction right there in the street. Snack lovers couldn’t wait for the Charles Chips truck to come around. He would deliver cans of potato chips, pretzels, and cookies to the door and take back the empty can. The business has passed to different owners over the years, and plastic bags have replaced the distinctive cans, but the present owners want to bring back the cans, some of which can still be purchased on their website. While the food vendors of today give excellent service to their customers, one can only admire the dedicated service of the vendors of the past. Through rain, snow, and sleet, by pickup truck or horse and buggy, they could be counted on to be at your door the same time every day. n
PHOTO SUPPLIED BY THE STICKY PIG
With warmer weather, food trucks are a common sight in the Lehigh Valley. The vendors sell everything from hot dogs, hamburgers, and barbeque to tacos, pizza, and ice cream. But “food on wheels” isn’t a modern concept. In fact, there was a time when grocery stores and independent food vendors regularly delivered their products directly to people’s homes. Back in the day, local dairies such as Freeman’s delivered cartons or glass bottles of milk to your back door, usually before 7:00 a.m., and placed them in metal containers (provided by the dairy) which kept the milk cold until the homeowner took them in. People often left notes in their containers for special orders such as orange juice, fruit punch, orangeade, lemonade, or yogurt. (I still have two of those containers.) The milkman, as he was known, would come around once a week to get paid for his wares. When I was growing up in the ‘50s and ‘60s, we had Freeman’s milk delivered to our home. Our first milkman was J. Raymond Cramsey, who liked to be called “Cramsey the Milkman.” He would later go into local politics and served one term in Allentown City Council in the late’60s and one term as a Lehigh County Commissioner in the ‘70s. He also ran for Mayor of Allentown in 1977. Local bakeries such as Bond (which opened an Allentown factory in 1915), Freihofer’s (Union Blvd.), Heimbach’s (9th and Tilghman Sts.) and others made home deliveries, as did private vendors. Back in the late ‘50s a vendor known as “Chickie the Baker” (we never knew what his real name was) delivered bread to our home from his pickup truck. He had a big satchel containing all kinds of bread. He would knock at the back door; if it was too early and no one answered, he would just leave a loaf outside, because he knew what we wanted. He
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BUG OUT
4 Bugs That Are Our Neighbors
The Buzz on Brood X Cicadas in the West End “The Invasion of Brood X Cicadas” may sound like the title of a 1950s science-fiction movie, but it’s really nothing for West End residents to worry about. For starters, says Prof. Marten Edwards, professor and chair of biology at Muhlenberg College, “That’s the Roman numeral ‘ten,’ not the letter ‘x,’ and it’s merely a bookkeeping tool that entomologists use to keep their data about periodical cicadas in order.” And while this year’s brood of 17-year cicadas has an extremely wide distribution pattern— from northern Georgia to New York, west to the Mississippi River and in the Midwest—it’s unlikely that we’ll see them in our area. Cicadas can be fussy about where they live, and our wooded areas are mostly second-growth—not very appealing to them. “You might find one or two around here,” says Edwards, “but you’d have to travel closer to Coopersburg or Quakertown” to see significant numbers of them. The noisy bugs have some unusual features. The 17-year designation is accurate; the bugs’ larval stage actually lasts that long. They nourish themselves underground with sap from tree roots, doing little damage while doing so, and then emerge all at once … billions of them. That’s an evolutionary defense, Edwards says. “When they emerge as adults, predators take advantage of the easy food source and eat as many cicadas as they can. But they can’t eat all of them; there are simply too many.” Though they are sometimes confused with katydids, they are vastly different. “Katydids are more related to grasshoppers 14 WEST END LIVING
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and crickets,” he said. “And they ‘sing’ only at night. Cicadas, on the other hand, are asleep at night.” Their distinctive noise comes from the rapid vibration of a “tymbal” membrane; crickets use their wings to make sounds, while grasshoppers rub their legs together. After cicadas emerge, they have a lifespan typical of insects
Spotted Lanternflies They are curiously attractive, invasive, and destructive. What’s the best way to respond to them? “Admire them because they’re so watchable,” Edwards says. “There are billions of them, and the few that you may be able to kill won’t make a difference overall.” The good news is that a pair of native fungi can infect and kill the pests. Anecdotally, he noticed that trees in his West End neighborhood had huge numbers of spotted lanternflies a few years ago – but the population has dropped off since then. Mosquitos The effects of mosquitoes can range from annoying to downright dangerous. “Many people like to use citronella candles and similar things to repel mosquitoes, but they really aren’t very useful, Edwards says. “It’s probably more effective to apply some insect repellent to yourself. And remember, most mosquitoes feed as the sun is going down; when it gets dark, they’re done.” You can help control those little biters by eliminating their breeding grounds—and that can be as simple as getting rid of any standing water around your home. “Mosquitoes actually need still water to breed,” he said.”Bird baths are good places for them; so are blocked gutters, and planters with plates as a base.” So clean up any inviting spots in your yard, and empty and scrub bird baths every week. Ticks These nasty little suckers are implicated in the transmission of several diseases. In our area, there are two prevalent types, says Edwards. Dog ticks are often found in lawns, tall grass and similar areas; they’re usually about a quarter-inch in size; deer ticks, on the other hand, are sesame-seed sized. And while both types are known to carry diseases, only the deer tick can transmit Lyme disease. Deer ticks are most often found in the woods; they might also settle in nearby woodpiles or stone fences. “It’s unlikely to find them in places like Trexler Park,” Edwards says. “The grass is trimmed, and walkways are paved.” If you like to hike, he recommends treating your shoes, socks and the lower areas of your body with a DEET-containing insect repellent. Stay on the trail, because ticks prefer leaf litter and similar materials. And when you return, get a good shower and run your clothes through a wash-and-dry cycle. And while Covid-19 symptoms often include fever, headache, and a general run-down feeling, those can also be early indicators of a Lyme infection. “If you feel that way, see your physician as soon as you can; if it is Lyme disease, proper antibiotics can treat it effectively,” he says.
– about four to six weeks. In that time, they mate and the female cicada lays eggs, often in small branches at the tips of trees or shrubs. Because this can damage young greenery, Edwards suggests wrapping such plants in plastic netting, the same stuff you’d use to protect berries from birds. And if you know someone who lives in an area where the cicadas do emerge, you can become a “citizen scientist” by using the Cicada Safari app and uploading your information; after verification, it will be entered into a database. Get details at cicadasafari.org. n
Bumblebees Without these bees, the world would go hungry. Bumblebees feed on flower nectar, pollinate each flower, and trigger the development of practically every leafy vegetable and fruit. They’re important to backyard gardens as well, says Jordanna Sprayberry, assistant professor of biology at Muhlenberg—and they need our help. Bees have poor eyesight, though they can detect flowers at far greater distances up to a kilometer. Urban life produces exhaust fumes, cooking odors, and other additive odor pollution such as fertilizers and fungicides. The outcome? Bees get confused and can’t find those distant food sources. Fortunately, the solution is simple: Plant more flowers. “Consider replacing some of your grass, perhaps the patch along curbing, with native flowers,” she suggests. Or plant more in your garden and other areas. “You’ll be providing more food for bees, at shorter distances.” Nurseries will guide in selecting the proper plants. And be sure to avoid any that have been treated with neonicotinoid—it’s toxic to bees. Sprayberry recommends asking about bloom time. “Bees have their least food in early spring and late fall, so it’s good to use plants that bloom in those seasons. Bleeding hearts are good for spring, and goldenrod is fabulous in the fall,” she says. Learn more about proper plants for bees at Edge of the Woods Native Plant Nursery. https://edgeofthewoodsnursery.com/ n
From Representative Schlossberg REAL ID Enforcement Deadline Extended
In April, the US Department of Homeland Security announced the deadline for REAL ID enforcement was extended to May 3, 2023 due to issues many individuals were facing in obtaining documents required for states to issue REAL ID complaint products. While the deadline has been extended, there is nothing to stop you from getting your REAL ID product to avoid last minute problem in 2023. REAL ID is not mandatory. Beginning May 3, 2023, it will be required to board a domestic commercial flight, enter a military base and enter a federal facility that requires identification at the door. Valid US Passports are considered REAL ID. It is NOT required for driving, general identification purposes, accessing a hospital, visiting a federal court or voting. To obtain REAL ID, applicants should be prepared to visit the REAL ID Center at 1101 MacArthur Rd in Whitehall with proof of identity (birth certificate w/ raised seal), Social Security Card, two proofs of current address and proof of all legal name changes (certificate marriage certificate, court order or divorce decree). In addition to renewing your identification, there is a $30 one-time REAL ID cost. For more information about REAL ID, visit dmv.pa.gov/REALID or call my office (610-821-5577) to request the REAL ID newsletter we put together.
Make Your Summer Plans in Pennsylvania
Summer in Pennsylvania offers a wide-range of fun opportunities for travel. Here are some of the ways you can plan your Pennsylvania adventure. You can also go to www.VisitPA.com. Visit a State Park Camping, hiking, fishing or even a relaxing stroll, Pennsylvania’s state parks offer a great way to explore the outdoors. Visit dcnr.pa.gov/StateParks for a list of state parks and activities you can plan for your summer. Visit the Pennsylvania Capitol I’m biased, but the Pennsylvania State Capitol is easily the most beautiful state capital in the country. Guided tours are available. You can book your tour online by visiting www.pacaptol.com. If you plan to visit with more than ten people, group arrangements must be arranged. You can call my office (610-821-5577) so we can help with those details. Fishing & Boating The Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission and partners take a lot of effort to make sure our freshwater ways are clean stocked with fish for the full season. You can plan your fishing adventure by visiting www.FishAndBoat.com. My office also keeps a list of stocking schedules and guides. Give a call (610-821-5577) and we’ll help you get one. n Help Available but Please Call First My office is located at 2030 W Tilghman Street and is by appointment only. We do miss the many friends who stop by for help, but we recognize it is more important for our community to keep people safe until this pandemic is fully over. Before coming to our office, please call first. Phone: 610-821-5577 Email: RepSchlossberg@pahouse.com Online: www.pahouse.com/Schlossberg Facebook.com/RepSchlossberg
R O O ND
D R YA E L A S I
RELICS and REUZITS at REDEEMER Friday, September 10 - Saturday, September 11 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Housewares, toys, collectibles, books, jewelry and more! Bake sale.
Redeemer Lutheran Church, 802 N. 19th Street Handicap access from 19th Street SUMMER 2021
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Minuteman Press Your Neighborhood Post Office
FREE $1.00 PA Instant Lottery Ticket with any purchase
FULL SERVICE POST OFFICE ADDITIONAL SERVICES INCLUDE • US Postal Services • Copies & Color Copies - Stamps • Printing & Mailing Services - Priority & Express • Creative Design - Package Shipping • Blueprints • Boxes & Packing • Posters & Banners • PA Lottery • Custom Apparel • Fax Service • Promotional Products
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Expires 9/3/2021. Limit one per customer. Must present original coupon at time of purchase. Not redeemable for cash. Only redeemable at Tilghman Street location.
WHY CHOOSE US? • Efficient and Friendly Staff • Post Office Services & Prices • Located at 18 th & Tilghman with FREE PARKING • Fully-Stocked Packaging Station • FREE Priority & Express Mail Packaging • REGULAR HOURS:
MON–FRI · 9AM –5PM
• Prepaid UPS/FedEx Drop Offs • PA Lottery Retailer with On-Line & Instant Tickets • Customer Use Computer Station with Color Printer
1801 West Tilghman Street, Allentown, PA 18104 Phone: 484-223-3311 | Fax: 484-223-3314 | mmplv.com allentown@minutemanpress.com 16 WEST END LIVING
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