WINTER 2021
www.westendallentown.com
Volume 7, Number 4
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To the casual viewer, the new construction project on the Muhlenberg College campus might appear to be “just another building,” but the Parkway Boulevard structure is actually quite special – it’s one of the first 20 projects in the world to pursue compliance with Living Building Challenge (LBC) Core Green Building Certification (CORE) program. CORE outlines the 10 bestpractice achievements that a building must obtain to be considered a green or sustainable building by the International Living Future Institute (ILFI). LBC is a certification program, advocacy tool and philosophy defining the most advanced measure of sustainability in the built environment today. “In terms of sustainability, many people are familiar with the LEED Gold designation,” said Rick Waligora, capital projects manager
at Muhlenberg. “That’s considered level A; CORE certification far exceeds LEED Gold. It’s like going to level A-plus-plus. It will change the whole vernacular for sustainable buildings.” The three-story building is
IN THIS ISSUE 1 New Building 3 Focus on the Arts 5 A Call to Action 6 Banking News 7 Why We Live Here
scheduled for completion in Sept. 2022, and its 20,000+ square feet will be home to the Innovation & Entrepreneurship Program, Institute of Public Opinion, School of Graduate Studies, School of Continuing Studies and Office of Community
8 Ron’s Ramblings 10 Health News 11 Students of Note 12 Recipes 13 On the Road 14 Clean Up photos
MUHLENBERG COLLEGE, IMAGES BY RE:VISION ARCHITECTURE
New Muhlenberg College Edifice Not Just Another Building
Engagement. The building will also house art studio space. Landscaping will use native plants that don’t need irrigation or petrochemical fertilizers, helping the site blend into the natural ecology. Covered bike storage, shower/changing facilities and a two-port electric vehicle charger will encourage low-carbon and human-centered transportation. “One interesting feature is our rainwater harvesting system,” Waligora said. “Runoff from the roof will enter a 10,000-gallon cistern beneath the southern terrace; after proper filtration, it will flow through low water-consumption flush-and-flow fixtures. It’s expected to cut the building’s water consumption by 50%.” The use of energy-efficient HVAC and lighting systems, super-insulated building walls, a 60kw rooftop solar panel array and other technology is expected to cut energy usage by at least 70%. Muhlenberg is also taking extensive steps to benefit the quality of interior air. “Indoor air is important for health and productivity, so instead of just recirculating the building’s air, we will use a continuous fresh-air ventilating system,” Waligora said. The intent is to reduce the possibility of continued on page 2
14 World of Food Photos 15 Local News 15 Where Is It? 15 Schlossberg Report WINTER 2021
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NEW BUILDING AT MUHLENBERG COVID contamination, as well as improving the environment for people with asthma or other respiratory conditions. Additionally, the college is committed to using cleaning products, furnishings and other materials that emit low levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Muhlenberg’s dedication to reducing its carbon footprint extends to relying, as much as possible, on local vendors and locally produced supplies for construction of the building; less time on the road means lower carbon emissions. “We’re also monitoring all of our construction waste streams, to keep everything properly segregated,” Waligora added. The building’s design philosophy includes following “biophilic” design principles. “That’s the practice of connecting people with nature in our communities. We want to bring
PHOTO BY JANE GEIST PHOTOGRAPHY
continued from page 1
as much of nature inside as we can, in some ways blurring the line between exterior and interior environments,” he said.
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Speaking of nature, many of us have seen birds fly straight into closed windows and glass doors, with unfortunate results.
“Sometimes, birds mistake their own reflections for more birds and try to meet up with them. At other times, windows might offer a clear view to trees on the other side of a building, and birds crash into the glass while trying to reach the trees,” Waligora said. Muhlenberg is mitigating that hazard through the efforts of two faculty members: Dan Klem, professor of ornithology and conservation biology (also the world’s foremost authority on bird collisions and bird-safe glass) and Acopian ornithological specialist Peter Saenger. The duo worked with the team at Re:Vision Architecture to ensure that the windows in the building will have bird-safe coatings. Waligora said the $15 million project is being financed through Muhlenberg’s own sources (including part of a $7.5 million gift to the school from a 1970s grad and his wife). 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 Editor — Robert Stevens 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
QNB – Your Community Bank We’re here to serve you!
Events to Note At the Pines Dinner Theatre n “Home for the Holidays” Nov. 10 – Dec. 19 There is no place like “Home for the Holidays,” when families join together in celebrating the most wonderful time of the year. As Sam and Marty plan for their extended family to visit them in upstate New York, their best laid plans are thrown asunder as a winter blizzard sweeps up the coast, snarling travel for everyone in the storm’s path. This new musical comedy proves
that the true meaning of Christmas is alive and well, even in the most difficult of situations. With a sparkling original score, and a timeless message, even the most determined Scrooge will believe in the magic of the holidays. Show Schedule: 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 Ticket Price Adults – Show Ticket: $30 Children (2-12) – Show Ticket $20 Dinner is served for all performances. All food is available a la carte for an additional cost.
n “Lucky Malone’s Not So Lucky Night” Jan. 14 – Apr. 30, 2022 The speakeasy is open! Spend an evening at Lucky’s Speakeasy, where the drinks are cold and the piano is hot. Lucky has it all…a doll on one hand, and a wad of cash in the other. But all that may change when his archnemesis Tommy “Two Times” shows up. By the time the dust settles, some unfortunate sap is deceased, and it’s up to everyone to figure out who-done-it. Don’t miss this hilarious immersive comedy where anything can, and will, happen in this all-new murder mystery! Show Schedule: Fridays: 7 p.m. dinner and show Saturdays: 4 p.m. dinner and show, 7 p.m. dinner and show Select Sundays: 12:30 p.m. dinner and show Ticket Price All Ages – Show ticket: $32 Dinner is served for all performances. All food is available a la carte for an additional cost. NOTE: For this event, dinner and show happen concurrently. For more information, or to order tickets, call 610-433-2333 or visit www.pinesdinnertheatre.com Pines Dinner Theatre 448 North 17th Street Allentown, PA 18104
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At JCC of the Lehigh Valley All events take place at JCC of the Lehigh Valley, 702 N 22nd St, Allentown, unless otherwise noted. n Private Music and Voice Lessons The JCC offers private oneon-one 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 the JCC Welcome Desk
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FOCUS ON THE ARTS
At the Civic Theatre
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at 610-435-3571 for availability before registering. Visit lvjcc. org/musiclessons for more information. Mon. - Fri., 4 - 6 p.m. 30 minutes, by appointment Ages: 5 years - adults Price per lesson: $45; JCC members: $35 Film
n Jewish Film Nights Nov. 9, Dec.14 7:30 p.m. 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 call the JCC Welcome Desk at 610-435-3571.
to celebrate Hanukkah together at the JCC with music, food, a community menorah candle lighting, and more. Register at lvjcc.org/familyevents. Contact: Ally Wiener-Avraham (awiener@ lvjcc.org) Price: $20/family; JCC Members: $15/family
Ally Wiener-Avraham, Jewish Education Coordinator, at 610435-3571 or awiener@lvjcc.org for more information or to register. 5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. Nov. 14, Dec. 2, Jan. 6, Feb 3 All Ages Price per class: $25/family; JCC members: $20/family
Culinary Arts
n Kids in the Kitchen Kids will learn fun new recipes and bake alongside special guests on Zoom. Registration required to get the recipe and Zoom link in advance. Visit lvjcc. org/familyevents or contact Ally Wiener-Avraham, Jewish Education Coordinator, at 610-4353571 or awiener@lvjcc.org for more information or to register. Nov. 7, Dec. 12, Jan. 9, Feb. 13, March 6 2:00 p.m. – 3 p.m. Ages: 5-10 Online via Zoom Price: $5/class; JCC members: Free
n Challah Club Make-and-take challah during this monthly class. Learn how to create fun braids, different styles, and even rainbow challah. Includes a take-home baking set when registering for two or more classes. Visit lvjcc. org/familyevents or contact
Cultural Events
n Community Hanukkah Celebration Dec. 5, 4:30 – 6 p.m. The entire community is invited
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n JUniversity: Cooking Class - Fall Comforts with Butterhead Kitchen The goal of Butterhead Kitchen is to make cooking classes casual, interactive, enjoyable & accessible. Whether you’re vegan, vegan-curious or just hungry, join us! If you are planning on following along at home, visit lvjcc.org/JUniversity for the shopping list and prep instructions to be completed prior to class. Registration ends Friday, Nov. 19 at 5 p.m. Visit lvjcc.org/JUniversity or contact Beth Kushnick, Adult Program Coordinator, at 610-435-3571 or bkushnick@lvjcc.org for more information or to register. Nov. 21 11a.m. – noon Online via Zoom Price: $10; JCC Members: Free Advance registration is required to receive the Zoom link
n A ChristmasCarol Dec. 3 – Dec. 18 19th Street Theatre Dec. 3, 4, 9, 10, 16, 17 - 7:30 p.m. Dec. 11 and 18 - 2 and 7:30 p.m. Dec. 5 and 12 - 2 p.m. Adapted from Dickens by William Sanders and Sharon Lee Glassman. Directed by William Sanders
The classic Lehigh Valley holiday tradition returns to the Civic stage for its 31st year. This timeless tale of Ebenezer Scrooge and his redemption has inspired literally thousands of children and adults to travel with Scrooge as “fellow passengers” on the road to humanity. Join this year’s cast on a journey through the past, present, and future of Scrooge’s Victorian London as the brilliant Charles Dickens spins this magical tale of the true spirit of Christmas. Start your holiday with Tiny Tim’s “God bless us everyone” echoing beneath each snowflake. Prices: Regular: $34 Student/Senior/Military: $32 Members: $29 Children aged 13 and under: $13 n Who’s Holiday Dec. 10 - 19 Theatre 514 Dec. 10, 11, 16, 18 - 8 p.m. Dec. 12, 19 - 3 p.m. Dec. 17 – 8 and 11 p.m. Written by Matthew Lombardo Directed by Will Morris For mature audiences. After a brief run last season, cut short by the pandemic, this wildly funny and heartfelt adults-only comedy returns for another season. Cindy Lou Who recalls that Christmas Eve she first met the Grinch and the twisted turn of events her life has now taken. You saw her last when she was just two Celebrate the holidays with Cindy Lou Who Pull up a seat and fill up your cup ‘Cause your favorite little Who is all grown up n
A CALL TO ACTION
MAIL-IN q YES, I want to help the West End Theatre District! Name ______________________________________________________
Love the West End? Support It!
Address ____________________________________________________ Phone _____________________________________________________ Email ______________________________________________________
q Please add me to your mailing list
Donation q $10 q $50 q $250 q $25 q $100 q $500 q $__________ Any amount you see fit. q Include my name in the next issue of West End Living The West End Alliance continues to work hard to make the West End Theatre District a more vibrant, more inviting place to live and run a business. For the first time last year, we asked you to support our efforts. You answered the call! Amid a pandemic, our readers raised over $6,000 for the neighborhood. We can’t thank you enough! Your financial support in 2021 will help us maintain the programs that make the West End special, including n Maintaining nearly 50 planters along 19th Street and adjacent streets n Planting trees along our streets n Publishing West End Living four times a year n Producing, mounting, and maintaining West End Theatre District banners n Installing roofline lighting and holiday lights in the neighborhood
Mail to: West End Alliance, 1908 W. Allen St., Suite 103 B, Allentown, PA 18104 n Conducting neighborhood clean-ups n Organizing neighborhood events like the World of Food Festival,
West End St. Patrick’s 5k and West End Yard Sale
n Keeping you updated and supporting merchants through social
media and email n Representing the needs of the neighborhood to Allentown city leaders Maybe you can send $5. Maybe $20. Maybe $100 or more. We know times are tough for many people. Any donation is welcome. We are a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization and will send an acknowledgement of your constribution. We are grateful for your support of the West End Theatre District. Your neighbors thank you, too!
Get vaccinated against the flu! Flu shots save lives. 1-866-STLUKES (785-8537) option 4 Daniel Roebuck WINTER 2021
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BANKING NEWS
It’s Time for Your 2021 Financial Checkup Getting your finances right before the end of the year. can download your reports for free anytime through annualcreditreport. com. Checking your credit reports is always a good idea. Studies show that consumer credit reports often contain errors that can damage a consumer’s credit score. But it’s especially important during this current economy.
While 2021 has certainly been a better year than the last one, it’s still be challenging for people’s finances. As prices continue to rise and pandemic relief programs start to wind down, it’s important to take some time to check on your finances and plan for the end of the year. That way, you can make it through the expensive holiday shopping season and start the New Year on the right foot. To help you get started, QNB has put together this financial checkup, so you can focus on all the financial areas that need your attention right now.
TIP NO. 2: CHECK YOUR CREDIT CARD BALANCES
The holiday shopping season is the most expensive time of year for most Americans. The average person spends over $1,300 and much of that expense ends up on credit cards. You want to make sure you’re heading into the holiday season with your balances as low as possible. Review your balances, as well as your interest rates.
TIP NO. 1: REVIEW YOUR CREDIT REPORT
The big three U.S. credit bureaus (Experian, Equifax, TransUnion) are still offering free weekly credit reports through April 2022. This means you
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If you are a carrying balances across multiple cards, plan to reduce your debt as much as possible now. That will give you more breathing room in case you use your credit cards to make travel reservations or holiday purchases in the coming months.
It’s important to take some time to check on your finances and plan for the end of the year.
Expenses can change throughout the year, this makes the end of year the perfect time to review your budget and make any adjustments you need for the coming new year. As you look at your budget numbers, consider the following: 1. Are there any expenses you can cut or cut back on so you can free up more money for holiday spending? 2. Are there things you’re paying for that you don’t use, such as subscription services that you’ve already binged your way through? 3. Are you able to dedicate money to saving consistently, so you can continue building your emergency fund?
TIP NO. 4: SEE WHERE YOU STAND ON YOUR FINANCIAL GOALS
Remember all those great financial resolutions that you had at the beginning of the year? Now is the time to check in on them. The economic uncertainty over the past months may have gotten you off track, but there’s still time to catch up. Look back at what you had planned for your finances this year. If you haven’t made progress, now is the time to recommit to what you wanted to achieve. If you didn’t have any financial goals set for this year, then get started now. Do you want to buy a house or a car next year? Will you have another major purchase in 2022? Then it’s time to start saving. If you want to improve your credit, download a free credit monitoring app and start tracking your score. n
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When Marten Edwards, professor and chair of biology at Muhlenberg College, joined the school, he and his wife Amy Fievre (now a professor in Cedar Crest College’s department of biological sciences) were living in Ohio. They found a suitable home to rent in the West End (around 25th and Tilghman Street), thanks to the college itself. “We didn’t know anything about the area,” recalls Fievre, “but Muhlenberg had an internal paper with leads on West End rentals, and that’s how we found it.” “After we settled in, we found that we really liked the neighborhood. And when we decided to buy a house, we found one just four blocks from our rental. We’ve been there for the past 20 years,” Edwards said. “At first, we looked at properties on the other side of Hamilton St.,” Fievre said. “They were closer to Cedar Crest, but the traffic was so heavy. The West End is so much quieter, but it still gives us easy access to big thruways when we need to travel.” Edwards added that the location – reasonably close to both colleges – is a key asset. “I often have experiments running in the lab, and I can easily bike over whenever I need to check on
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them. It’s actually a quicker trip than driving.” “I like that the neighborhood is old enough to have so many large trees and well-kept gardens,” Fievre said. “I often walk the neighborhood and check them out.” When the pandemic struck, “We were delighted to hear that the Greenhouse (restaurant) was offering pizza for pickup. We’d do that each Thursday, and our week revolved around that. And it’s still our Thursday night tradition!” The couple offered a laundry list of neighborhood favorites – Syb’s, JCC of the Lehigh Valley, Blink Optical, Village Cleaners and many more. Edwards sums up their West End experience quite simply. “We can go anywhere, but we’re always happy to be back home. We want to retire here as well.” n
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RON’S RAMBLINGS
Joseph S. Daddona “Union Terrace Park” Popular Spot though Never Completed
two stone pillars were moved to Union Terrace and placed on each side of the amphitheater stage. Designed for outdoor concerts, the Amphitheater is large enough to seat 6,000 people. In the late 1930s, an additional 2,000 people could sit on wooden benches that were built by the city. These benches were eventually removed over the years due to deterioration and never replaced. The stage is surrounded by welltrimmed bushes and trees, and its beauty is enhanced by Cedar Creek – which runs in front of the stage – and the lake behind it. Unfortunately, money ran out and construction of the amphitheater was halted in
1938 and never completed. Construction of a bandshell for the stage; equipment storage; changing rooms; a sound system; and public facilities were all proposed in 1940, but never built
PHOTOS BY JANE GEIST PHOTOGRAPHY
Public parks are an essential part of life for residents of most American cities. Their quiet, peaceful atmosphere eases the burdens of daily life and brings enjoyment after a hard day’s work or on weekends. Allentown has many such parks, but the jewel of the West End is Joseph S. Daddona Lake and Terrace – perhaps better known as the former Union Terrace Park. More than just a park, it offers a large amphitheater, a softball field, baseball diamonds and basketball courts, as well as grassy fields, a picnic grove with a grill, and a beautiful lake. Located at 21st and Union Street, the park was created in 1932 as the result of a gift of 11 acres of land along Cedar Creek by M.A. Reisensmith and Associates. Later that same year, the Allentown Parks Department contracted with several engineers to lay out plans for a lake and amphitheater. The lake, which was constructed beginning in 1934, was originally planned as a children’s fishing lake. When it opened in 1935, it was stocked with perch, sunfish, and catfish. The lake was open to ice skating during the winter of 1935/1936. The Depression-era Works Progress Administration (WPA) funded and oversaw the construction of the amphitheater in 1937. It consists of a large double stairwell on the St. Elmo St. side of the park, which leads to a stepped terrace down the side of a grassy hill facing an elevated stage. There are also several smaller stone stairways on both the Walnut and Union sides of the terrace. Just before World War I, as the automobile was beginning to become the primary mode of transportation, two large stone pillars were constructed at 24th and Liberty Street as part of what was then the west entrance gate into Allentown. In 1937 the structure was dismantled and the 8 WEST END LIVING WINTER 2021
CONTRIBUTED BY DEVON ROWLAND
BY Ron Epstein Burning Hearts Fire and Light Theatre
because of the lack of funding. Left unfinished as it was, the amphitheater is prone to many difficulties – poor acoustics, no amplification system, and a oncebusy railroad spur that tended to disrupt concerts with noise. All of these problems have left the structure as a mainly visual attraction. The building has the basic qualifications as an outdoor theater, such as for graduations. However, it needs improvement for general public use. Sadly, in recent years, the amphitheater has been rarely used. Its most recent use was “Shakespeare in the Park,” an annual performance that took place between 2006 and 2017. Plays presented during these years include “Romeo and Juliet” (2006), “A Mid-Summer Nights Dream” (2007), “As You Like It” (2009), “Much Ado About Nothing” (2010), “Macbeth” (2012), “Twelfth Night” (2013), “Othello” (2014), “A Comedy of Errors” (2015), “Hamlet” (2016), and “Richard III” (2017). The park was also the site of several performances by the Burning Hearts Fire and Light Theatre in the 2010s. Union Terrace Park was renamed “Joseph S. Daddona Lake and Terrace in 2002, just two years before his death, in honor of the former Mayor whose residence at 1928 Walnut Street overlooks the park. The park is open 24 hours a day seven days a week, although the hours may vary on holidays. n
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HEALTH NEWS
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Acute Rehabilitation Center at St. Luke’s Sacred Heart Hospital Delights Sisters
The Olenek sisters have always been unusually close. Just a year apart in age, Carol, “the healthy sister,” remembers keeping an eye on older sister Anna ever since she developed a severe kidney infection when she was only six years old. During her childhood, Anna had been hospitalized with rheumatic fever. Later, she would endure four strokes, in addition to other ailments. From time to time over the years, Carol would stay with Anna while she was ill. Anna also had trigeminal neuralgia, a condition that causes chronic pain in the face. Anna, now in her 70s, needed rehabilitation services. Carol knew there was only one place for her sister – the Acute Rehabilitation Center at St. Luke’s Sacred Heart Hospital. Carol could attest to the excellence of the Acute Rehabilitation Center (ARC) at St. Luke’s Sacred Heart Hospital. She had been a patient there last fall and said she couldn’t have been more pleased with both her experience and the outcome of the care she received. Carol had developed septicemia, a serious infection that occurs when bacteria enter the bloodstream. It had spread to her lumbar vertebrae, spleen and heart. As a result, she needed to have her heart’s aortic valve replaced. Although the surgery at St. Luke’s University Hospital in Bethlehem was successful, she was so weak from the infection that she couldn’t roll over. Walking was tiring. To restore her strength, her cardiac surgeon Jose Amortegui,
MD admitted her to the ARC at St. Luke’s Sacred Heart Hospital. “As soon as I arrived, they started addressing all of my problems,” Carol said. “I received occupational and physical therapy every day. They got me to the point where I could walk and take care of myself.” About two weeks later, she was able to go home, but the septicemia returned. Carol spiked a high fever and was unable to walk. Anna called 9-1-1. Carol was again admitted to St. Luke’s University Hospital. Soon the infection was under control, but now she was even weaker than before. She returned to the ARC for another two-week stay. “Just like before, the care was absolutely outstanding,” Carol said. “I arrived there helpless, and they sent me home independent. By the end I could take a shower on my own, wash and dress myself, and waIk with a walker.” Both sisters credit St. Luke’s Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation physician Geeta G. Sathe, MD, and the other staff of the Acute Rehabilitation Center at Sacred Heart, for their recovery. Carol adds, “God forbid, if I ever need rehabilitation again, that’s where I would go.” n
STUDENTS OF NOTE Muhlenberg Elementary Cameron Hendricks, Kindergarten Cameron just started his first year of school at Muhlenberg Elementary. He is thriving in Mrs. Kegley’s Kindergarten classroom and has shown natural leadership skills since Day One! Cameron always includes his classmates in any game he initiates during recess and has been a model student by displaying all of the characteristics of a kind and hardworking student. Cameron has already proven he is ready to be a MUHLENBERG OWL! We are so happy to have Cam as part of our Muhlenberg family!! Trexler Middle School Kai Jefferson-Rushing, 8th grade Kai is a model student at Trexler who continues to demonstrate success in the classroom and in numerous outside activities. Kai has maintained perfect attendance throughout his middle school years, both virtually and in the
Cameron Hendricks
building. He takes pride in maintaining honor roll with all daily subjects and making sure he is present daily for personal growth. Kai currently has straight As, and is known by Trexler staff and administration as a leader in the building. He will be playing basketball for the school this fall, and is a member of several sports teams outside of the school. Trexler is proud of Kai and his numerous accomplishments throughout his middle school years. He is a great representative of the brilliant student body here at Trexler Middle School!
Kai Jefferson-Rushing
Meghan Edinger
William Allen High School Meghan Edinger, 11th Grade Meghan Edinger is a junior at William Allen High School. In addition to her busy academic schedule -- made up of many Advanced Placement and other advanced level courses -- she is involved in a variety of school and community activities. She is the secretary of the Student Government Association, which is currently working hard to bring back our exciting WAHS Homecoming activities for the first time since the pandemic. She loves music. She is a member of
our school choir and has been in the William Allen Chorale since her sophomore year. She has participated in several of our theatre productions and musicals and has also attended the School of Rock on 19th Street for many years. She is part of the Odyssey of the Mind team that won both regional and state level competitions in 2021. Somehow, despite her very busy schedule, Meghan still finds time to be part of our Varsity soccer and Varsity track teams. She is a wonderful representative of William Allen High School and the West End of Allentown! n
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FOR FOOD, FAMILY & FUN
Recipes for a Winter’s Day When there’s a chill in the air, here are some hearty cold-weather recipes to try this winter.
1 cup sliced carrots 2 cups chopped broccoli 1 cup water 1 tsp chicken bouillon granules 1/4 cup chopped onion 1/4 cup butter 1/4 cup all−purpose flour 1/4 tsp ground black pepper 2 cups milk 2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese In a small saucepan over medium−high heat, combine carrots, broccoli, water, and bouillon. Bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat, and set aside. In a large saucepan, cook onion in butter over medium heat until onion is translucent. Stir in flour and pepper; cook 1 minute. Stir in milk. Bring to a boil, then stir in cheese until melted. Stir in reserved vegetables and cooking liquid. Heat through, and serve with fresh crusty bread.
Mom Ebner’s Barbeque
1-1/2 lbs ground beef 1/2 lb+ deli sliced corned beef 1 med. onion, chopped 2 Tbsp apple cider vinegar 2 Tbsp brown sugar 1 cup ketchup 1/2 cup parsley, chopped 1/2 Tbsp prepared mustard 1/2 cup water 3 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce salt & Tabasco to taste Brown ground beef and onion and drain; add all remaining ingredients except the corned beef and simmer 30 minutes. Finely chop the corned beef and add to the pot; simmer until corned beef is tender.Add water if needed to prevent sticking. 12 WEST END LIVING
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Nanc’s Seafood Chowder
2 Tbsp olive oil 1 med. onion, chopped 2 celery stalks, chopped 1 lb shrimp, cut lengthwise 1 lb scallops, cut in half or quarters 1 lb monkfish, cut in 3/4” cubes 2-3 cups milk 1-2 cups shrimp or chicken stock 4 medium potatoes, cut in 3/4” cubes, cooked 4 cups frozen corn 1 cup grated parmesan cheese 1/2 cup parsley, chopped salt & pepper to taste Heat olive oil in a large pot and sauté the onions and celery until soft. Add seafood and sauté for 2-3 minutes, then add milk, stock, potatoes, corn and heat through (add more milk or stock if necessary). Stir in parmesan cheese and parsley. (NOTE: 1 cup of crabmeat can be substituted for monkfish if desired)
Nanc’s Baked Corn & Chive Casserole
2 (10-ounce) packages frozen, extra sweet corn kernels, thawed 1/4 cup sugar 11/4 tsp salt 2 cups milk 4 large eggs 1/2 tsp vanilla 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter melted and cooled, plus more to coat the casserole 3 tbsp all-purpose flour 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives pinch fresh grated nutmeg Preheat oven to 350 degrees F., and butter a 1 1/2 quart casserole dish. Place half the corn in a food processor and coarsely chop. Transfer to a bowl and add the
PHOTO BY R. AYERS
Wisconsin Cheese Soup
Barbeque served with home made Bread & Butter Pickles, YUM!
remaining corn. Sprinkle with sugar and salt and stir to combine well. In another bowl whisk together milk, eggs, vanilla, butter, flour, and chives. Stir into the corn and combine well. Pour the pudding into the buttered dish and sprinkle with nutmeg. Bake in the middle of the oven until center is just set, about 45 mins. Serves 8
Add tomato sauce, tomatoes, oregano and marjoram. Add 1 1/2 cups water, salt and pepper. Stir. Cover tightly. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, 20 minutes. Add sherry and simmer another 10 minutes. Stir in remaining ingredients, adding clams last. Cover. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer 15 minutes. Serve hot with French bread.
Cioppino
Honey Cornbread
Cook garlic, onion and parsley in hot olive oil until onion is tender.
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Lightly grease a 9x9 inch baking pan. In a large bowl, stir together flour, cornmeal, sugar and baking powder. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Add the cream, oil, honey and eggs; stir to combine. Pour batter into prepared baking pan. Bake in preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into center of pan comes out clean. Serves 8 n
3 cloves garlic, minced 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped 2Tbsp parsley, chopped 1 cup olive oil 2 cups tomato sauce 1 (28 oz.) can tomatoes 1/2 tsp dried oregano 1/2 tsp dried marjoram leaves salt and pepper to taste 1/2 cup dry sherry 2 rock lobster tails with shells, uncooked, cut into serving pieces 2/3 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined 1−1/2 lbs whitefish (haddock, halibut or cod), cut into serving pieces 24 clams in shell, or 3 (7 1/2−oz.) cans minced clams, drained
1 cup 1 cup ¼ cup 1 Tbsp 1 cup ¼ cup ¼ cup 2
all-purpose flour yellow cornmeal white sugar baking powder heavy cream vegetable oil honey eggs, lightly beaten
ON THE ROAD
Ebikes Riding Wave of Electric Popularity
PHOTO BY JANE GEIST PHOTOGRAPHY
Everyone’s heard of electric cars, but how about electric bicycles (ebikes)? These battery-boosted vehicles can cut your carbon footprint, with the added benefits of exercise and fresh air. And they’re becoming more common, according to Mike Siemons, sales manager at Trek Bicycles on Tilghman St. “Their popularity has grown immensely over the past six or so years,” Siemons said. “The bikes have become more affordable and accessible, and the tech and materials have improved.” Don’t confuse them with mopeds, though. An ebike’s battery (commonly located behind a wheel or on the bike’s downtube); drives a motor that converts electricity to torque, and adds a variable boost to your pedaling efforts. “Many people say that riding uphill feels as easy as riding downhill,” he said. Bike technician Declan McMurtrie offers a basic explanation. “An onboard device measures your pedaling pressure; when it senses heavy exertion – such as when you’re just starting off – the motor will provide relatively more assistance. As you reach a comfortable speed, your pedaling pressure goes down, and the monitor reduces the assistance,” he said.
Unlike dynamo light systems – which charge themselves as the wheels turn – ebike batteries must be recharged regularly. Depending on your bike’s configuration, you can expect to ride from 20 to 100 miles between charges. But ebikes aren’t strictly for people who want to go faster (Class 1 and 2 ebikes have a top speed of about 20 MPH, while Class 3 can usually hit 28 MPH; beyond those speeds, the power-assist drops out). They’re great for older people who want to keep up with younger riders in a group, or for those with certain physical limitations. Bicycle manufacturers are increasing the market penetration of ebikes by offering them in numerous configurations – for heavier duty, or higher torque levels, for example. And ebikes aren’t limited to a handful of models; “I’d say about half of Trek’s traditional bike models are also available in electric versions as well,” Siemons said. The ebikes range in prices from $1,500 to $14,000. Siemons expects the store to have more than a dozen of the powered cycles available for purchase in December. He added that communities are adapting to the popularity of ebikes. Certain laws and regulations apply to them, so some places welcome them while others do not. Want to know more? Visit trekbikes.com, or contact the store. Trek Bicycles 1728 W. Tilghman St. 610-437-6100 n WINTER 2021
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IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD
PHOTOS BY JANE GEIST PHOTOGRAPHY
PHOTOS BY ANN BIERNAT-RUCKER
West End Alliance at its Best. YOU!
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LOCAL NEWS
Ruffino’s Pizza Owner Dies
From Representative Schlossberg With great sadness, we report the passing of John L. Dewalt, Jr. on October 11. As the owner and operator of Salvatore Ruffino’s Brick Oven Pizza, John was practically a fixture there. Offering smiles and waves to his many customers, John knew them so well he could often recognize their voices on the phone, or know their orders as soon as they walked in. In addition to his West End Theatre District friends, he’ll be missed by his widow Joann (they had just marked 38 years of marriage on Sept. 17), his parents, siblings, sons and grandsons. n
Where Is It?
1. Online at www.annualcreditreport.com.
Identify its location in the West End Theatre District and you could win a $25 gift certificate from a restaurant in the neighborhood.
2. By Phone at 1-877-322-8228.
3. By mail, just print out the form available online and send it to:
Annual Credit Report Request Services, P.O. Box 105281, Atlanta GA 30348-5281 My office also has these forms available. PHOTOS BY JANE GEIST PHOTOGRAPHY
One winner will be randomly selected from all the correct entries.
As your state representative, my office receives many calls about how consumers can get credit reports. These reports can have an impact on employment and your ability to buy a home, car or insurance. Thanks to the Fair Credit Reporting Act, you are entitled to receive a free credit report from each of the three nationwide credit reporting agencies (Equifax, Experian and TransUnion) every 12 months. You can order your credit report from all three credit agencies at the same time or spread those requests over the course of the year to better monitor your credit. These reports will not include your credit score. Be cautious of websites that claim to offer free credit reports. Some of these sites will only give you a free report if you buy other products or services. Others give you a free report and then bill you for services you have to cancel. When you apply online, you should be aware that you will be asked questions for security reasons. As always, if you have questions about this or any governmental service, please don’t hesitate. n
Three free ways to get your credit report
Do you recognize this image?
Send your entry by e-mail to michael@drabenstott.com or mail to: M. Drabenstott, 2346 W. Allen Street, Allentown PA 18104 By December 4, 2021.
Consumer Protection: Get Your FREE Credit Report
Help Available but Please Call First
FALL WINNER! Greenhouse Enoteca Congratulations to
Summer Kline,
Winner of our Fall contest!
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
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Healthy bones and joints mean you can do more. So, when your joints are hurting, rely on orthopedic care from the team you TRUST. We’ll recommend the right approach to care, including joint-sparing treatments and therapies. And when surgery is the only choice, we offer options to help you heal faster, including technology-assisted joint replacements and muscle-sparing hip surgery. The orthopedic care you trust. Now more than ever.
sluhn.org/ortho 1-866-STLUKES (785-8537), option 4
Proud to be the official health services provider of the U.S. Senior Open 2022. 16 WEST END LIVING
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