Issuu

Volume 5, Number 2

SUMMER 2019

WEST END LIVING

HIGH SCHOOL DUGOUTS

PHOTO BY JANE GEIST PHOTOGRAPHY

Fields Undergo Renovations Spurred by Unique Team: High Schoolers For years, William Allen High School’s baseball field was in sorry shape. The playing surface was poor; the outfield would flood after a heavy rain. And the field had no protection for players from the elements. Players sat on open benches, or found whatever natural shelter they could against rain, wind, or blazing sunshine. But thanks to an ambitious project undertaken by the William Allen Construction Company, a student-run organization, the boys’ baseball and girls’ softball teams now enjoy brand-new dugouts. The structures were dedicated in ceremonies on May 3, 2019. Alvin H. Butz, Inc., founded the WACC about 20 years ago. The group currently has 30 members, ranging from sophomores to seniors. “The group models itself after the Butz company,” said Michelle Bruno, a faculty co-advisor (and former member). “Each project has a manager, a PR team, and a design team, and members learn to coordinate all aspects of each project. They do everything except the physical construction.” Plans for the dugouts began taking shape about five years ago, after the baseball team asked the company to consider the project. WACC has tackled big projects before; one of its first was the renovation of the school’s auditorium and lobby.

IN THIS ISSUE 1 High School Dugouts 3 World of Food Festival 4 Focus on the Arts 7 Students of Note 8 Ron’s Ramblings

9 Market Success 9 Real ID Information 10 Business Matters 11 Shop Local 12 Tradition 12 Park Update

The company developed designs, construction specs, and other documentation for the dugouts. “We provided them with guidance and advice to keep them on the right track,” said Butz chairman Lee Butz. “But they did all of the actual work themselves.” The projected cost was $65,000, and the students began fundraising to help defray that amount, until an unforeseen challenge emerged. Title IX of the Education Amendments Act of 1972 states: “No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.” Translated into simple English: The construction company discovered it was legally obligated to provide a matching set of dugouts for the girls’ softball team, effectively doubling the scope and cost of the original project. For the next two years, the group pursued grants and other means of raising the required funds. Last year, Lee Butz proposed a different tactic: try to convince the various contractors to help make the project more affordable. “I invited all of the contractors, plus William Allen 13 New to the Neighborhood 13 Your Thoughts 14 Medical Program 14 St. Pat’s 5K Recap 19 Event Update SUMMER 2019 WEST

END LIVING 1

HIGH SCHOOL DUGOUTS Construction Company’s CEO Isaiah Albert-Stein, and its project manager, Lisa Espiritusanto, to meet in my office,” Butz said. “The students made their pitch to the group, explaining how important the dugouts were, for safety and other reasons,” he said. “But I think they made the most impact when they said that, because of Allen’s status as an urban school, the players and students were often perceived as second-class citizens. Being the only team in the league with no dugouts just reinforced that perception.” After the presentation, the vendors conferred and unanimously concluded that, instead of offering a discount, they would donate all material, labor, and incidentals for the dugout project. “Our senior members really didn’t think they’d see the completed project before they graduated,” Bruno said, “so this outcome was beyond their wildest imaginings.” Butz added that generous donations from the Century Fund and the Rider-Pool Trust covered related expenses beyond the actual project. While the dugouts were developing, the school also received a grant administered by Major League Baseball to upgrade the fields. Baseball coach Rob Leskosky spearheaded the grant application process. The Allentown program is one of just four in the nation that were selected from 350 applicants. The new dugouts feature concrete masonry walls, corrugated metal roofing, built-in aluminum benches and concrete slab floors. Field improvements include new fencing for player and spectator protection and relocation of existing bleachers to improve visibility; renovations to the playing field itself are pending. “The students from William Allen Construction Company are a shining example of how our students can rise above expectations through the active support of our community,” said Thomas Parker, Superintendent of the Allentown School District. “Partnerships with local businesses give our students the opportunity to access real world work experiences before graduation, and those experiences can help guide their future plans towards college or a career pathway.” n 2 WEST END LIVING

SUMMER 2019

WEST END n

LIVING

West End Alliance, Inc.

PO Box 173, Allentown, PA 18105 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 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 us at

westendlivingmagazine@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.

Thank You to our West End Alliance Cornerstone Partner

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.

SAVE THE DATE!

World of Food Festival Saturday, September 21

STAY INFORMED

West End Theatre District Launches New Website An attractive new website for the West End Theatre District, westendallentown.com, went live this May to offer residents and visitors more information about the neighborhood and happenings here. Funded in part by a grant from the City of Allentown, the new site will feature news and events, back issues of West End Living, and information about moving to or starting a business in the neighborhood. A searchable business directory will be online by the summer. You can also follow us on Facebook (facebook.com/westendalliance) and Instagram (@westendalliance). n

PHOTOS BY JANE GEIST PHOTOGRAPHY

Save Saturday, September 21 for the 5th annual West End World of Food Festival. Sponsored by the West End Alliance, a nonprofit neighborhood association, the festival brings together live music, beer and wine, crafts, activities for children, eating contests and of course, lots of food. The food vendors represent everything from Puerto Rican to Mexican cuisine, with local favorites also available. “This is a great opportunity to bring people into the West End while acting as a major fundraiser for the West End Alliance,” according to Scott Smith, events committee chair. The band schedule this year is: 12:00 to 2:30 p.m. Smith Compound Band 2:30 to 5:30 p.m. Girl Cru 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. M80 8:30 to 11:00 p.m. Kevin Miller’s Smashed The admission-free, kid-friendly event runs from noon to 11 p.m. n

Designs by

Maria Anastasia It’s a Zoo in Here!

Whimsical Animal Doorstops and Adorable Gifts

YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD FLOWER & GIFT STORE Fresh Flowers, Plants, Silks, Candles, Cards, Purses, Scarves, Placemats, Aprons and so much more!

607 N. 19th Street, Allentown

(610) 770-3213

SUMMER 2019

WEST END LIVING 3

FOCUS ON THE ARTS

Something for Everyone!

Independence Day, all members of the military (both past and present) will receive free dinner and show for Rock Around the Clock with military ID, for all performances taking place July 3 through 7. Currently running through July 7 Rock Around the Clock

Show Only Ticket Price: Adult: Preferred seating - $30.00, General admission - $25.00 Child: Preferred seating - $20.00, General admission - $15.00 448 N 17th Street, Allentown For ticket information, call the box-office at (610) 433-2333 or visit pinesdinnertheatre.com.

Jewish Community Center At the

Civic Theatre At the

n Constellations This spellbinding, romantic journey begins with a simple encounter between a man and a woman. What happens next defies the boundaries of the world we think we know—delving into the infinite possibilities of their relationship and raising questions about the difference between choice and destiny. June 21, 22, 27, 28, 29: 7:30 p.m. June 23, 30: 2:00 p.m.

n Civic Theatre School Summer 2019 Enroll your kids in a class that will have them engaging their creative and social skills with other students. Summer Session 1: July 8 through 19 Summer Session 2: July 22 through August 2 Visit civictheatre.com or call (610) 432- 8943 for more information n Exhibition On Screen: Van Gogh & Japan “I envy the Japanese,” Van Gogh wrote to his brother. Though Vincent van Gogh never visited Japan, it is the country that had the most profound influence on him and his art. The film travels not only to France and the Netherlands but also to Japan to further explore the remarkable heritage that so affected Van Gogh and made him the artist we know of today. June 12: 2:00 p.m. July 7: 8:00 p.m. $12 adults; $10 student/senior/ military; $8 members

n Tonys & Tapas 2019 The largest fundraiser of the year will feature a musical performance by the Civic Theatre Company, delicious tapas from the Valley’s finest restaurants, the signature MarTony cocktail, open wine and beer bar, and spirited live and silent auctions. And come 4 WEST END LIVING SUMMER 2019

All events take place at JCC of the Lehigh Valley, 702 N. 22nd St., Allentown

celebrate artistic director William Ross Sanders’ 25th season! June 9: 3:30 to 6:30 p.m.

Pines Dinner Theatre At the

n Rock Around the Clock Get ready to dance in the aisles with this high energy revue, featuring all of your favorite hits from the ‘50s and ‘60s. In honor of

n Pump Boys and Dinettes Get ready to meet Jim, Eddie, Jackson and L.M.—the pump boys of Highway 57. They’ll fill up your tank by day and cut loose by night with a crowd-pleasing mix of southern-fried rock and rhythm ‘n’ blues. Just across the road, you’ll find the Double Cupp Diner where sisters Prudie and Rhetta Cupp serve up the finest home cookin’ and sweetest manners this side of the Mississippi. Together, these six friends sing of joy and heartbreak while strumming and humming away on guitar, piano, bass, and even a few kitchen utensils July 13 to August 18 Performance schedule (all shows) 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 Price for Dinner and Show: Adult: $50.00 Student (10-16): $35.00 Child (2 to 9): $20.00

n Music Camp Join us for a fun and creative summer activity for campers of all ability levels. It will focus on singing, music reading, theater and improvisational games, dance, movement, breathing techniques, and more. For students in 2nd to 6th grade. June 17 to June 21: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Music Camp

n Dance Camp Throughout the week, campers will explore dance concepts, terminology, and learn two dance routines that will be performed at the end of the week. For students in kindergarten to 6th grade. August 12 to August 16: 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. n Broadway Theater Workshop Join us as we sing and dance our way through the bright lights of Broadway. In this fun and entertaining camp, students will learn songs, work on craft projects inspired by a Broadway musical, and more. End the week

Doctor Dolittle Jr.

6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Show Dates: December 12, 14 at 7:00 p.m. and December 15 at 2:00 p.m. Participation fee (required upon acceptance of a role): $128 JCC Members: $85

with a mini-showcase for family and friends. For students in kindergarten to 6th grade. August 12 to August 16: 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. n Stagemakers Theater Camp Doctor Dolittle Jr. Come experience the world of performing arts with Stagemakers Theater Camp at the J. This 3 week camp follows the classic story of a wacky doctor who can talk to animals. Children will have the chance to focus on vocal work, dance, costuming, and more to put on an amazing final performance

at the end of camp. For students in kindergarten to 6th grade. July 1 to July 19: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. n Stagemakers Youth Theater Auditions Newsies Based on the 1992 motion picture and inspired by a true story, Newsies features a Tony Awardwinning score by Alan Menken (Little Shop of Horrors, Sister Act) and Jack Feldman, and a book by Tony Award winner Harvey Fierstein (Kinky Boots). For students in pre-k to 12th grade. Auditions: August 26 and 27:

n Cartoonarama Art Camp In this week-long camp, students will have the opportunity to create their very own cartoon through the direction of accomplished animator Cotty Kilbanks (Bugs Bunny Classics, Rocko’s Modern Life, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Iron Man, South Park) while using different techniques including drawing, painting, sculpting, and more. For students in kindergarten to 6th grade June 24 to June 28: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. To register for all programs above, visit lvjcc.org/musiccamp or contact Brenda Finberg at bfinberg@lvjcc.org or call the JCC Welcome Desk at 610.435.3571.

Art Gallery Opening

n Art Gallery Opening Reception: Flora Pestcoe and Marcos Mario The Gallery at the J hosts exhibits of various media approximately every six weeks. Opening event receptions are free to the community and include refreshments and live music. Exhibit pieces are available for purchase. July 18: 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. For more information, please visit lvjcc.org/artgallery or contact the JCC Welcome Desk at 610.435.3571 or gallery@lvjcc.org.

Are you looking for a medically supervised nutrition, exercise and behavioral approach to losing weight? Or are you ready to explore weight-loss surgery? St. Luke’s Weight Management Center is pleased to offer both surgical and non-surgical approaches to better manage, care for and overcome obesity and the conditions and illnesses that go with it including diabetes, high blood pressure, depression, stroke and more. By achieving a healthy weight, patients can decrease the likelihood of developing these conditions and improve their quality of life.

Lost 121

lbs.!

4 convenient locations – Allentown, Monroe, Sacred Heart & Warren If you want to lose weight… and you want REAL results, register for a FREE Informational Seminar at WeightLoss.sluhn.org, or call 1-866-STLUKES (785-8537), option 4. SUMMER 2019

WEST END LIVING 5

FOCUS ON THE ARTS travel, spotlights and true love. As their dreams unfold, we see them embark on a journey of self-discovery, making the brave leap together into an unknown future. At Studio Theatre, Trexler Pavilion for Theatre and Dance. June 26 to July 27 Weds. and Thurs: 10:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. Fri. and Sat.: 10:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. July 4 and 27: 10:00 a.m. only

Muhlenberg College’s Summer Music Theatre

fine dining Where the OWner Wears

an aprOn, nOt a tie!

1926 West Allen street AllentoWn 610-434-2628 henryssAltoftheseA.com

6 WEST END LIVING

SUMMER 2019

n Bring It On: The Musical Bitingly relevant, sprinkled with sass, and inspired by the hit film, Bring It On: The Musical takes audiences on a high-flying journey of friendship, betrayal, and forgiveness. Uniting some of the freshest and funniest creative minds on Broadway, Bring It On features an original story by Tony Award winner Jeff Whitty (Avenue Q), and a score by Pulitzer- and Tony-Award winners Lin-Manuel Miranda (In the Heights, Hamilton) and Tom Kitt (Next to Normal), and lyrics by Amanda Green (High Fidelity). At Empie Theatre, Baker Center of the Arts June 13 to 16: Thurs. and Fri: 7:30 p.m. Sat: 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Sun: 2:00 p.m. June 19 to 30: Weds. to Sat: 7:30 p.m. Sun: 2:00 p.m. n Bohemia From the creators of WILD and TAL: Beyond Imagination comes an all-new all-ages circus experiencethe story of a group of childhood friends, dreaming of a spectacular future: space

n Anything Goes Cole Porter’s classic jazz-age musical stands among the most beloved of the 1930s, featuring timeless standards like “I Get a Kick Out of You” and “You’re the Top.” A delightfully silly tale of love, deception, and hijinks on the high seas, Anything Goes features breathtaking melodies and wickedly clever lyrics by one of Broadway’s all-time great songwriters. At Baker Theatre, Trexler Pavilion for Theatre and Dance July 11 to 14: Thurs. and Fri.: 7:30 p.m. Sat.: 2:00 and 7:30 p.m. Sun.: 2:00 p.m. July 17 to 28: Weds. To Sat.: 7:30 p.m. Sun.: 2:00 p.m. Tickets and more information for all shows: muhlenberg.edu/smt n

STUDENTS OF NOTE

Carrie Spangler

Reagan Transue

Muhlenberg Elementary Reagan Transue is a natural leader in her kindergarten classroom. She is eager to learn, and is kind and helpful to everyone in her class. Reagan sets an example of excellence in behavior and cooperation. She always encourages others to do their best and make good choices.

Rylie Barr

Trexler Middle School Rylie Barr

exudes hard work and accomplishment as an 8th-grade student. Rylie maintains a perfect academic record in the most difficult classes while staying involved in the school through NJHS, Student Council, the “What’s

So Cool About Manufacturing?” regional video competition, reading daily announcements on the public announcement system to our students as well as staff, and many other activities. She also volunteers in her community as a dance instructor for young children. Rylie is an excellent example of a Trexler Bulldog, because she continues to strive for success in everything that she does.

William Allen High School

Canary Nation is proud to announce that Carrie Spangler (class of 2020) has received the Governors School of Agriculture’s Summer Scholarship for 2019. She is one of only 64 juniors and seniors in the state to receive the award. Carrie will attend the full five-week agriculture- and science-based collegiate course from July 7 to August 2 on the main campus of Penn State University. Topics of

study include animal and plant science, natural resources and the environment, and food science and agricultural engineering. Carrie is an excellent student, leader, and exceptional representative of William Allen High School. n

SUMMER 2019

WEST END LIVING 7

RON’S RAMBLINGS

J. Birney Crum Stadium Hosts More Than 70 Years of History By Ron Epstein

With the warm weather here, people will be spending more time outdoors enjoying recreational activities, including sporting and other events. Here in the West End, the place to go for such events is J. Birney Crum Stadium at 2027 Linden Street. Born in 1899 in Alton, IL, J. Birney Crum came to Allentown in 1919 after high school graduation and attended Muhlenberg College for four years and graduated in 1923. He then served as head coach in football, basketball, and baseball at Allentown High School (the original name of William Allen High School) from 1923 until 1948. His teams won 190 football games and 490 basketball games. Crum’s powerhouse teams actually prompted the construction of a new stadium, as an article on the WAHS website explains: The Allentown - Bethlehem game on Thanksgiving Day was the highlight of the sports season, but unfortunately, when the Canaries hosted the Red Hurricane in 1946, thousands of spectators were denied seeing the game because of the capacity limitations of Coffield Stadium, and they were forced

to stay at home and listen to the game on the radio. For seeing the drastic need for a larger stadium, in 1946 the Allentown school board decided to build the largest high school-owned stadium in the state in order to accommodate all those pigskin fans who wanted to witness the annual Allentown – Bethlehem Thanksgiving Day battle. The then-23,000-seat stadium opened in 1948 as the Allentown High School Stadium, usually referred to as the Allentown School District Stadium or simply ASD, the name many people continue to use today. At the time, it was the largest high school football stadium in Pennsylvania. Crum, who had been inducted into the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame in 1974, died in 1981. The stadium was renamed in his honor the following year. Renovations removed the visitor-side stands in 2002, and ended the stadium’s “largest in the state” status. The stadium now seats 15,000. During those same renovations, the natural grass surface was replaced with FieldTurf, a brand of artificial turf designed to more accurately replicate real grass. This is

April 18, the William Allen HS Invitational Track Meet – boys & girls track and field teams came from around the Lehigh Valley to compete in a variety of events.

8 WEST END LIVING

SUMMER 2019

Stadium was originally under construction in 1947/48

something the school district had wanted to do since 1984 when an overnight downpour necessitated the use of a helicopter to blowdry the field. Many well-known NFL stars—Ed McCaffery (Central Catholic High School) of the Denver Broncos and New York Giants; Tony Stewart (Central Catholic) of the Philadelphia Eagles, Cincinnati Bengals and Oakland Raiders; and Andre Reed (Dieruff High School) of the Buffalo Bills and Washington Redskins— played in the stadium during high school. In 2015, the playing field was named in honor of Andre Reed. The stadium was also the home of two professional soccer teams. The Pennsylvania Stoners, of the National Premier Soccer League, played there in 2008, and the Northampton Laurels of the Women’s Premier Soccer League performed there from 2006 until their disbanding in 2008. The Collegiate Marching Band festival, held in late September or early October, presents college and University marching bands of all sizes from across the

Northeastern United States. The Drum Corps International Eastern Classic, known as the DCI East Championship, hosts world class drum and bugle corps from across the country; it’s been a fixture at J.B.C. since 1977, which is also the year that DCI first began performing anywhere. The annual July 4 fireworks display usually draws tens of thousands of people into the stadium and nearby open areas. The spectacle can be seen high in the sky from blocks away. n

Local Food Market LV Brings Fresh Fare for Muhlenberg Pickup

It’s now easier than ever to eat healthier in the West End. Local Food Market LV, a food hub that distributes high-quality food bought directly from local farms and small business, delivers to Seegers Union at Muhlenberg College. Local Food Market LV cofounders Steve and Nicole Shelly started their farm in Coopersburg about 11 years ago. After participating in numerous farmers’ markets, they realized that smaller producers like themselves could benefit from having a centralized distribution point. Their venture aims to improve the health of residents,

make use of farmland, and allow farmers to do what they do best: producing food. The Shellys’ online store (localfoodmarketlv.com) offers a broad variety of produce, meats, honey, grains, maple syrup, eggs, herbs, and even prepared foods. “We stick with organic food as much as we can,” Nicole says. “And farmers simply bring their products to us; we take care of cleaning, packaging (with environmentally friendly materials) and delivering them.” Local Food Market LV also

maintains a certified kitchen onsite; any excess produce is made into convenient ready-to-eat meals and creative prepared foods. Its vendors include Wild Fox Farm (vegetables, meat, other products), Bee Well Blooms (mixed flowers), Dreamland Farmstead (greens and mixed vegetables), The Buttered Crumb (baked goods), Switchback Pizza (wood fired sourdough bread with local flour, pizza kits) and Red Cat Farm (locally raised grains). Local Food Market LV operates as other online retailers do: no memberships, no fees. You just place your order at localfoodmarketlv.com. The company also offers three levels of monthly plans for regular purchasers. The company can deliver orders in a limited range and offers a convenient service for West End residents. You can pick up your online orders every week at Muhlenberg College. “We keep the orders in coolers in the Seegers Union building,” Nicole says, “and

PHOTOS BY JANE GEIST PHOTOGRAPHY

MARKET SUCCESS

customers can drop by between 1:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. Fridays to pick them up.” “Local food doesn’t have to mean ‘seasonal,’ so we operate year-‘round,” Nicole adds. “While our fresh produce offerings will vary, our canned products, hydroponically grown foods and storage vegetables are always available.” n

FROM REPRESENTATIVE SCHLOSSBERG

REAL ID Now Available in PA In March of 2019, REAL ID became available in Pennsylvania. Established under federal law, REAL ID is optional. However, if you plan to fly on a domestic airline, visit a military facility or certain other federal facilities, you will need to have a REAL ID product—like a US Passport or a REAL ID compliant driver’s license. For individuals who obtained their first Pennsylvania Driver’s

License before 2003, you will need to plan to visit a PennDOT licensing facility with your birth certificate (raised seal), an unlaminated Social Security Card, all documents that prove legal name changes (marriage licenses, divorce decrees) and two documents to prove residence. After those documents have been presented to PennDOT, you will be able to request your REAL ID, which simply replaces your drivers license or photo identification. For more information on the process, the costs ($30 fee plus $30.50 for renewal) and learn more, visit my REAL ID page at pahouse.com/ Schlossberg/realid. If you have any questions, please call, email or visit my Allentown office (see at right).

PennDOT Opens Additional Licensing Facility

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.com/RepSchlossberg Twitter.com/RepSchlossberg

To help get your REAL ID over the counter and serve your other licensing needs, PennDOT opened a new facility at 1101 MacArthur Road in Whitehall (previously Aldi’s next to Jordan Park). The new location is open Tuesday through Saturday, 8:30 a.m. until 4:15 p.m. Services available include: non-commercial knowledge test, non-commercial skills test, driver’s license/photo ID, photo ID card duplicate/replacement, photos, driver’s license duplicate/ replacement/renewal, sameday REAL ID, learner’s permits, motorcycle knowledge test, motorcycle skills test. n SUMMER 2019

WEST END LIVING 9

BUSINESS MATTERS

Neighborhood Ice Cream Bar Is Mooooving and Shaking

PHOTOS BY JANE GEIST PHOTOGRAPHY

The Udder Bar, the West End Theatre District’s ice cream shop, now offers its array of sweet treats at a second location: the Allentown Fairgrounds Farmers Market. While the original Allen St. location sells plenty of scoops, cones, and novelties, co-owner Hayley DeLong said pints and quarts of the shop’s premium ice cream are big sellers at the Fairgrounds location, along with fresh-made milkshakes. You can also kick up your shake with “sip’n’dip” waffle sticks that are

ideal for dunking. In other ice cream news, The Udder Bar recently began producing its own lines of superpremium ice cream, including such flavors as peanut butter explosion, vanilla chip, and minty cookie madness. DeLong said all of the ice cream sold at the Fairgrounds is their homemade varieties, which has also replaced about 80 percent of the flavors at the original location. One word of caution, though. The farmers market shop rotates its flavors weekly, so be sure to stock up on your favorite. It might not be available next time! Allentown Fairgrounds Farmers Market hours: Thursday: 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Friday: 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Saturday: 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. n

Who are you? What do you stand for? Why do you matter? Before anyone will buy your product, retain your service or contribute to your cause, they want answers. We can help.

Marketing and public relations counsel

(610) 417-0503

drabenstottcommunications.com

Proud to live and work in Allentown’s West End. 10 WEST END LIVING

SUMMER 2019

SHOP LOCAL

Kathy Harris Custom Framing Shoppe opened in early March at the location of the former Hang Ups on St. Cloud St., and visitors will likely be surprised by some major changes. Framing samples are now displayed on a single custom-built freestanding wall unit and most customer interaction now takes place at the front of the store. “It’s more like a living room than a wide-open space,” said owner Kathy Harris. “When we learned that [former Hang Ups owner] David was retiring, we jumped at the chance to take over the store,” she said. “We had just six weeks to pull everything together—but we did it!” Harris uses only high-quality woods (no byproducts) such as cherry and oak for her frames, and offers a variety of stains, lacquers,

and other finishes. Because she crafts each, she can accommodate even unusual sizes. Harris also offers a limited selection of metal frames, but notes that they are now often more costly than wooden frames. “We offer only custom framing services,” said Harris, “for sports memorabilia, mirrors and double mirrors, all sorts of photography, limited edition prints, even kids’ artwork.” She added that needlework framing is a store specialty. “It can be tough to properly stretch and align such pieces, but we welcome that kind of work.” Harris had earlier worked in a custom-kitchen business with her husband, but began concentrating on framing in 1999. Prior to opening this store, Harris spent five years as framing manager for

PHOTO BY JANE GEIST PHOTOGRAPHY

Framing Store Changes Hands, Revamps Space

Michaels arts and crafts supply store in Whitehall. Her experience opening the store in the West End has been positive, Harris said. “All the businesses that surround mine were very welcoming,” she said, “particularly Wert’s, Ringer’s Roost, TDS Technologies, and Valley Wide Signs and Graphics. There’s a ‘big city’ look here, but the atmosphere is really good.

And I love the diversity in the area. Every culture has a different approach to art, and I’ve seen some fabulous pieces.” Kathy Harris Custom Framing 602 N. St. Cloud St. Allentown (484) 705-1642 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday; Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Other hours by appointment n

SUMMER 2019

WEST END LIVING 11

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY

Tennis Club Celebrates 100 Years of Making a Racquet in the West End attorney Anthony Muir. “Clay isn’t available anywhere else. It’s easier on the legs, and is just a joy to play on.” In its heyday, Wenck said, Oakmont was THE place for West End kids to play tennis. “From the ‘60s to the ‘80s, we’d have up to 300 juniors [players under the age of 18] taking lessons. Your parents could drop you off, or you could bike over, and stay the whole day, playing and socializing,” Wenck said. Lifelong West Ender Margery Minogue said that “each summer, the club hosted a United States Tennis Association Junior Tennis Tournament. Oakmont members hosted players at our homes from neighboring cities and nearby states.” The USTA also named Oakmont as “Club of the Year” in the mid-Atlantic states eastern PA

PHOTOS BY JANE GEIST PHOTOGRAPHY

It’s been one hundred years since Oakmont Tennis Club – the only clay-court facility in the area – admitted its first members. Some veterans of World War I, who had been stationed at Camp Crane (now the Allentown Fairgrounds) decided to form a tennis club. They chose property at 20th and Liberty Sts., and a large oak tree growing on the property inspired the name. A few years later, the club moved to its present location at 21st and Allen Streets, and it’s been there ever since. Generations of West Enders have played there. Board member Jeff Wenck said his parents, Lucille and Taylor, did so as children and young adults in the ‘30s and ‘40s. “Around 1960, my mom decided that dad was spending too much time playing golf. She suggested he take up tennis again, and teach us kids. I’ve been an active member ever since,” he said. Its red clay surface is “one of the neat things about Oakmont,” said tennis enthusiast and retired

district in 2008. The 501(c)7 non-profit club has a history of giving back to the neighborhood as well. Oakmont has been the home court for William Allen High School’s tennis team (including Muir, when he played for Allen in 1966) for decades and provides summer training for the team. It also hosted the former Lehigh Valley

Sports Fest’s tennis tournament for several years. Oakmont has also partnered with Kids Play Tennis, a local nonprofit organization dedicated to the development of quality youth tennis and learning in the Lehigh Valley public parks, daycares, and community based organizations. “We hope it stimulates junior-level interest in the club,” Wenck said. The club will host a week of tournaments from August 5 – 10 and a post-tourney party on the 10th. And Oakmont is offering a special deal to West End residents – you can purchase an adult season membership for $145, and a junior membership for just $75.00. The offer is good until July 1; contact Wenck at jeffwenck@yahoo. com or call 484-695-2117. n

PARK UPDATE

You’ve probably heard about the infestation of rose rosette disease at the Malcolm W. Gross Rose Gardens, but you might not know just how severe the problem became. Originally, parks department works estimated that half of the 1,000+ plants in the gardens would need replacement. There’s no cure for the disease, and its effects include excessive thorniness and clusters of stems called “rosettes.” Ultimately, because the microscopic mite that spreads the disease travels by air, every rose bush in the garden had to be destroyed. But thanks to the efforts of the city’s parks department things are looking up again. “It was a really big job,” 12 WEST END LIVING SUMMER 2019

said superintendent of park maintenance Rick Holtzman. “We had a crew of eight workers who spent over a week pulling out the plants, digging out the root system by hand, and removing about 80 cubic yards of soil.” A Parks Department-led team planted about 725 new bushes, representing 65 varieties of roses, in pure new soil over the course of five more days. “There are fewer plants than before, because we discovered the older bushes had been planted too close together— only 12” to 18” apart, instead of the recommended 24” to 36”. Because they’re now properly separated, the new roses should grow well,” Holtzman said. The city originally bought

PHOTO BY JANE GEIST PHOTOGRAPHY

Allentown Rose Garden to Flourish Again

475 new bushes from Edmunds Roses; the balance came through a generous donation of bushes by Star Roses and Plants in West Grove, PA. Holtzman hopes the new plants to be about 2’-high and in bloom this summer, but adds “This is

their year to grow in. You’ll really see a difference next year. We’ll have a beautiful garden again.” n Special note: If you suspect your own roses are infected, please be aware – you cannot dispose of them at a regular yard waste site.

NEW TO THE NEIGHBORHOOD

YOUR THOUGHTS

QNB Bank to Open Third Lehigh County Location in Heart of 19th Street

My Perfect Day in the West End

Come late summer, West Enders will have a new place to bank. QNB Bank has purchased the former bank at the westernmost corner of the retail complex on W. Allen St. between 19th and St. George St. “We really liked the location and the community,” says David W. Freeman, President and CEO of QNB Bank. “Our whole team is really excited to have a presence in Allentown. It’s probably one of the most densely populated areas we are going to serve.” The bank will have a branch manager, two commercial lenders

serving small to large businesses, three to four universal bankers, bilingual bankers, and a host of other offerings. The West Allentown location will be QNB Bank’s third branch in Lehigh County, says Freeman, with the other locations in Coopersburg and Wescoville. Freeman says that the bank plans to keep the unique art deco façade of the building to match the neighborhood, though they will be replacing and updating the windows. Other internal improvements are scheduled. “We’re targeting an August opening,” he says. n

Longtime West End business owner and resident Timothy Statler recently told West End Living how he’d spend a day in the neighborhood if he wasn’t crafting custom jewelry at his shop, Timothy Zaveri Jewelers. “Well, there’s going to be a lot of food,” he said. Luckily he balances it out with plenty of exercise. I would probably start my day at home, I’ve lived in the West End a long time, with something simple for breakfast and then go for a walk with my wife, our daughter, and dog. We all like going up to Muhlenberg College to enjoy the campus. My dog and my daughter like running around and playing— and few things make me happier than watching them.

Caring for patients before, during and after surgery for 31 years.

For lunch, I’d go to Ringer’s Roost or, if I’m having a craving for wings, Liberty Street Tavern. They have these blue heat and white heat wings there that are incredible. They’re the best in the area. After lunch maybe I’ll take another walk in one of the West End’s parks. Trexler Park is always nice, as is Cedar Beach—especially this time of year. And then dinner, of course. There are so many great places to eat in the West End—Greenhouse Enoteca is excellent for being so new to the neighborhood, and there’s always Henry’s Salt of the Sea, a classic. Whatever I order, I’ll probably have a cocktail with it. And if maybe I’m not in the mood to dine out, I’ll have dinner out on my back deck with my family, watching the sunset, just enjoying being at home. n Find Timothy at Timothy Zaveri Jewelers 520 N. 19th St., Allentown, PA 18104

610.435.2470

“The better you get to know a patient personally, the better care you can provide the patient. I rely on my 31 years of surgical experience and excellent medical education to

Peter F. Rovito, MD, FACS; General Surgeon

take the very best care of my patients before, during and after surgery. Their care is my

Dr. Rovito provides a full range of general surgery including hernias, gallbladder disease, appendicitis, bowel disorders, breast disorders, thyroid and

paramount concern and it is my honor to have them share such an intimate aspect of their lives with me.”

parathyroid disorders, cyst and lipoma removal, and more.

New patients welcome! Schedule your appointment by calling 610-437-6119

842 N. 19th Street, Allentown, PA 18104

SUMMER 2019

WEST END LIVING 13

EMERGENCY CARE

Early Care Saves Lives During life’s scariest moments, the comfort and support of friends and family can mean everything. And for Marianne of Allentown, the friends and family who supported her on a recent traumatic night were from an unexpected source - former students and St. Luke’s staff who helped her through a very frightening time. The day was winding down for Marianne, 71, and Joe Ehritz. Joe, 73, was taking out the recycling after a day of golf while Marianne was making dinner. When Joe returned to the house, he was clutching his chest and complained of a burning sensation. “I knew right then that this was serious,” says Marianne. Joe, still conscious and talking, convinced her to drive him to the emergency room at St. Luke’s Allentown rather than wait for an ambulance.

When they arrived at St. Luke’s, Marianne burst through the doors, pleading for help for her husband who was having a heart attack and still sitting in the car. “Her face said it all - she was panicked,” says Stephanie Weigel, one of the ER nurses on duty that night. Stephanie and emergency room technician, Scott Brokaw, ran out to the parking lot to find Joe, pale, slumped over and clutching his chest, complaining of severe chest pain. They got him into a wheelchair and brought him into triage, where they attached the ECG leads and Dan Gilbert, in registration, got all his required information. Just then, Stephanie recognized that Joe was in ventricular tachycardia, a very dangerous dysrhythmia. He became unresponsive, no pulse present and he coded, which means his heart stopped. Stephanie jumped over the

side of the bed, straddled herself over Joe, and began CPR as Scott pushed the stretcher from the triage room, down the hallway of the ER. “I remember the atmosphere in the room changed instantly,” recalls Dan. “Marianne was repeatedly calling out for him to come back to her.” Marianne instinctively started following the stretcher, but she was stopped by Dan’s soothing, comforting voice who encouraged her to stay back. “I told her that we needed to let the team do what they do, to let

them do their jobs,” remembers Dan. Dan stayed with Marianne in the waiting room for as long as he could, since she was alone and didn’t have time to contact her children or friends. “I got such a strong sense of how much she loved Joe,” continues Dan. “So, I decided I was going to be the friend she didn’t ask for, but needed in this moment.” The doctors hooked Joe up to defibrillator pads, which allowed the return of circulation and he became responsive shortly after.

EVENT RECAP

West End St. Pat’s 5k raises $14k for neighborhood Nearly 700 runners joined the 11th annual West End St. Patrick’s 5k in the West End Theatre District before Allentown’s glorious St. Patrick’s Parade. The race, which follows the parade route along Liberty, 19th, Tilghman and 25th St., has become one of the region’s must-do 5ks and is known for its festive atmosphere in addition to its competitive nature. Cornerstone sponsors St. Luke’s University Health Network, and

Muhlenberg College led nearly a dozen other sponsors in making the event possible, along with more than 35 volunteers. The event raised more than $14,000 for the ongoing development, beautification, and marketing of the West End Theatre District. Results, pictures and video are available at westendstpats5k.com Registration for the 12th annual race, March 22, 2020, will open in October. n

JANE GEIST PHOTOGRAPHY

EUNIECE SANTIAGO PHOTOGRAPHY

EVENT UPDATE The upcoming Allentown Vision 2030 Community Collaboration Meeting taking place June 18 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. now has a new meeting location. The group will now host the meeting at the JCC of the Lehigh Valley, not Mulenberg Elementary School, where it was originally planned to be held. If you’re interested in attending the event, which will be a community discussion about the future of Allentown, please RSVP at AllentownVision2030.org n 14 WEST END LIVING

SUMMER 2019

Dan. “Steph and Scott did an outstanding job - I am very proud of them. We all worked together as a team to do everything we could for Joe and for Marianne. I don’t think anyone who was there in the room when Joe coded will ever forget that day.” Marianne was so grateful for the outstanding care she and Joe received at St. Luke’s Allentown that she felt compelled to write a thank you note, a small gesture of her gratitude. “It’s not necessary because we are all just doing our jobs, but it’s really special when a patient writes a thank you note to the staff like Mrs. Ehritz did,” says Nikki Alderfer, patient care manager for the St. Luke’s Allentown emergency department. “She signed the note from herself, her husband and named all their kids and grandkids too. That, to me, really shows that when we save a life here, we’re not just impacting one person, but a whole family - that means the world to all of us.” n

Where Is It? Do you recognize this image? 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 June 28, 2019.

PHOTO BY JANE GEIST PHOTOGRAPHY

Joe had an anterior heart attack with a ventricular fibrillation arrest, but he was alive and stable. After a short hospital stay, he’s now at home, doing better each day, going to cardio rehab, getting exercise and eating healthier. During the course of that night and Joe’s time in the hospital, there were so many people who touched their lives with kindness including some of Marianne’s former school students who were now St. Luke’s nurses, therapists and practitioners. She was so proud to see the children she once taught become health professionals who were making a difference - they were all angels to her and Joe. Looking back now, Marianne doesn’t know how she got through that day without those former students who made her so proud or the new people she encountered like Dan, Stephanie and Scott who helped her stay calm. “I’ve worked in the ER for many years now, and this situation will always be one I remember,” says

One winner will be randomly selected from all the correct entries. Congratulations to Sandi Lyn Kegley, winner of our Spring contest!

Call today to schedule your manicure, pedicure, facial, or special event hair style!

Mention this ad when scheduling and receive 10% off!

SLEEK STYLES S

We look forward to seeing you at your next appointment!

HAIRCUTS & STYLING y FACIALS y MANICURES & PEDICURES y SKIN CARE y MASSAGE y WAXING

610.774.9532

1741 Liberty Street, Allentown

www. s3salon.com SUMMER 2019

WEST END LIVING 15

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 - Stamps - Priority & Express - Package Shipping • Boxes & Packing • PA Lottery • Fax Service

• Copies & Color Copies • Printing & Mailing Services • Creative Design • Blueprints • Posters & Banners • Custom Apparel • Promotional Products

Regular USPS PRICING & NO WAITING!

Visit Our PACK & SHIP STATION!

Expires 8/9/2019. 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 18th & Tilghman with FREE PARKING • Fully-Stocked Packaging Station • FREE Priority & Express Mail Packaging • SUMMER SCHEDULE:

MON–FRI · 8AM–6PM

• Prepaid UPS/FedEx Drop Offs • UPS/FedEx Shipping available from our City Center Store • PA Lottery Retailer with On-Line & Instant Tickets • Customer Use Computer Station with Color Printer

SUMMER SCHEDULE Memorial Day through Labor Day

MON–FRI · 8AM–6PM CLOSED SATURDAYS

1801 West Tilghman Street, Allentown, PA 18104 Phone: 484-223-3311 | Fax: 484-223-3314 | mmplv.com allentown@minutemanpress.com 16 WEST END LIVING

SUMMER 2019