Volume 3, Number 4
WINTER 2017
West End Living
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Dan Amouyal
ON CAMPUS
Muhlenberg College fosters sense of family for International Students By Olivia Hurtado
Muhlenberg College has introduced about 100 international students to life in the Lehigh Valley. Thomas Janis, Director of the Office of International Student Support at Muhlenberg College, Said, “International students bring diversity to the campus at
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Jouman Barakat
Shuxiu Huang
Muhlenberg and they also bring a diverse set of perspectives too.” Muhlenberg College, being a small liberal arts college, fosters a close-knit community, which allows students to learn from each other. Janis describes what Muhlenberg brings to international students lives. “The students themselves gain a broader sense of life, culture and values of the USA” said Janis. A senior at Muhlenberg College from Afghanistan, Narges Mahdi, said that she, “expected Muhlenberg to be a community, but now it’s more of a family.” You often hear students on campus refer to “the Muhlenbubble”, to describe the way in which the campus has become an insulated word of its own that students are hesitant, or even afraid, to leave. Mahdi has made strides to leave the Muhlenbubble and explore IN THIS ISSUE 1 International Students 2 WEL Online 3 Holiday Arts Focus 4 Focus on the Arts
Shelby MacPhail
the surrounding Lehigh Valley by volunteering in Allentown. She said the Lehigh Valley has played a big part in her experience at Muhlenberg due to the community and diversity it offers. Before coming to Muhlenberg College, Dan Amouyal a senior from Jerusalem, served in the Israeli Army for there years as a part of mandatory service. After his time served in the army, Amouyal began the college search and found Muhlenberg through his uncle’s dentist who also had a son searching for colleges. Amouyal said that Allentown is a good place for international students to adjust to an american way of life. Shelby MacPhail, a senior at Muhlenberg College, is from Medicine Hat a city in Alberta, Canada. MacPhail explained that she is from a small community at home, so when looking at 7 New to the Neighborhood 8 Mink’s Candies 10 All-American Graphics 11 The Spirit Stores 12 Two Thanksgivings
Narges Mahdi
Muhlenberg she liked the small community it offered. When asked about her impression of the Lehigh Valley, MacPhail said she has seen improvement of the downtown area and even close surrounding areas of Muhlenberg’s campus over her four years at Muhlenberg. “This has been a good community to use as a stepping stone to live in a new city,” said MacPhail, who plans on living and working in New York City or Boston after graduation. Shuxiu Huang, a sophomore, is from Guangzhou, China. Huang said that during her freshman year of college, she did not leave campus often because she was not familiar with the area. Visits to the Allentown Farmers Market down the street from campus were her first impressions of the area surrounding Muhlenberg. Huang said she likes the ability to
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WINTER 2017
cover story
buy fresh fruit and vegetables and eating at the restaurants that the market has to offer. Jouman Barakat, a sophomore at Muhlenberg, went to high school at an international boarding school in Jordan, where a Muhlenberg College Alumni taught, which is how she found out about Muhlenberg. “Makes me grow,” is how Barakat described her experience being at Muhlenberg so far. Barakat also said that she feels more comfortable off campus than on campus, but doesn’t have a car. Students can explore the
community outside the Muhlenbubble by volunteering in the Allentown community, interning for local organizations, or just exploring the downtown area. The West End Theatre District, being in walking distance of Muhlenberg’s campus, is a location where the Lehigh Valley community and the Muhlenberg community can build a relationship. It only takes a short walk and curiosity of a new community, for a Muhlenberg student to pop the bubble. n
ONLINE ANNOUNCEMENT
West End
Find West End Living online All issues of West End Living are now available online. Simply visit www.issuu.com and enter “West End Living” as a search term. From there, just click on an issue’s image to page through a virtual copy. And be sure to tell everyone – former neighbors, distant family members and friends -- who might be interested in keeping up with the many activities and businesses that make up the bustling West End Theatre District about this totally free service. We already know that the District is a can’t-miss destination neighborhood – let’s help spread the word even further! And remember – there’s no registration need. Just click and read! For easy on-the-go reading, the site offers a free app for both iPhones and Android platforms.
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Living
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West End Alliance, Inc.
PO Box 173, Allentown, PA 18105 PUBLICATION STAFF Editor — Laura McHugh Writer — Frederick Jerant Designer — Publication Design, Inc. Photographers — Jane Geist — Hub Willson Intern — Olivia Hurtado Editorial Consultant Michael Drabenstott ••• ADVERTISING Neighborhood Coordinator Ann Biernat-Rucker For advertising information, contact Ann at 610-703-8004 annbiernatrucker@gmail.com ••• West End Living is published quarterly by the West End Alliance, Inc. to promote the West End Theatre District. ••• EDITORIAL Editorial suggestions or comments? Contact Laura McHugh at westendlivingallentown@gmail.com ••• West End Living is published quarterly by the West End Alliance, Inc. PO Box 173 Allentown, PA 18105 Publisher assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited manuscripts, photos or artwork. Nothing may be reprinted in whole or in part without written permission from publisher.
Printed in U.S.A.
Focus on the Arts
Celebrate the Holidays with West End Theatre District The Theatre District’s
arts scene is always buzzing - even more so during the winter holidays. We’ve rounded up as many holidaythemed events as we could, and out them at the top of this listing section, followed by our usual smorgasbord of visual and performing arts attractions.
Holiday Special Events Bach Choir of Bethlehem
December 9 n Enjoy the stirring sounds of the Bach Choir of Bethlehem at its annual Christmas concert at First Presbyterian Church, Allentown. The Choir and its Bel Canto Children’s Chorus will perform “A Child’s Christmas in Bethlehem,” mixing carols, poems, and stories from across the centuries and around the world. The concert will also includes Ralph Vaughan Williams’ “Fantasia on Christmas Carols;” Thomas Goeman’s arrangement of “O Holy Night;” and the Native American “Huron Carol” and the English “The Gentyle Storcke.” December 9 at 8 p.m. Adults: $38 Students: $9 10% discount for groups of 10 or more Bach.org or call 610-866-4382, x-115 or x-110.
Cathedral Church of St. Catherine of Siena
December 3 n The Cathedral of St. Catherine of Siena’s annual Christmas concert will mix traditional and contemporary music for the season,
performed by the combined voices of the Diocesan Choir, Cathedral Choir, Living Word and Angelorum., accompanied by keyboards, strings and woodwinds. No admission charge, but a freewill offering will be donated to charity. For more information: 610-439-1700. December 3, 3 p. m. 210 N. 18th St. (near Allen high school) Allentown
Jewish Community Center
December 13 n The Magic of Hanukkah Community Celebration Celebrate the second night of Hanukkah with us! Children’s activities include a PJ Library event, latkes, sufganiyot, candle lighting, and a magic show from 7:00 -7:30 by Dr. Marc Berson, AKA “The Amazing Marookie.” Community clergy participation -including a special music activity -- will be led by Cantor Jeff of Congregation Keneseth Israel. December 13: 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Price: FREE RSVP to the JCC by calling 610-435-3571. n Annual Pancake Breakfast December 25, 9 a.m. Join us for our annual Pancake Breakfast and -- new this year! -- a scrambled egg bar. Enjoy a delicious breakfast and morning of fun events. This event is open to the community. 9 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Pancakes & Scrambled Egg Bar 9 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. Art Project 10:30 a.m. - 11 a.m. Family Bingo 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Family Swim December 25, 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. Price: $8; JCC Members: $5; under 3: FREE Both events take place at JCC of the Lehigh Valley, 702 N. 22nd St., Allentown. For more information: Sandy Newman at snewman@ lvjcc.org.Register by calling 610-435-3571 or go online at lvjcc.org/pancake.
Civic Theatre
December 1 - 16 n A Christmas Carol The classic holiday Lehigh Valley tradition returns once again to the Civic stage. Join this year’s cast on a journey through the past, present, and future of Scrooge’s Victorian London as this magical tale reveals the true spirit of Christmas. December 1 - 16 Thurs. through Sat.: 7:30 p.m. December 3, 9, 10 and 16 at 2 p.m. Tickets: $29 Regular $27 Student/Senior $13 Children 12 and under Except December 7, 14 $26 Regular $24 Student/Senior $13 Children 12 and under n The Santaland Diaries By David Sedaris/Adapted by Joe Mantello Returning for the second year, this outrageously funny one-man play from popular humorist David Sedaris is an alternative holiday celebration about the author’s experiences as an unemployed writer taking a job as an elf at Macy’s in NY. A winking take on how the holiday season brings out the best – and the worst – in us all. December 8 through 17 December 8 - 16 at 8 p.m. December 10 and 17 at 3 p.m. Tickets $29 Regular; $27 Student/Senior Except December 10, 14 $26 Regular $24 Student/Senior Each ticket subject to $3 processing fee. Order tickets by phone: (610) 432-8943 Order in person: 527 N. 19th St., Allentown n White Christmas Sing Along December 19 Bing and Danny return in this song-packed classic, as two show-biz partners strive to help their former Army general (and find love along the way).
n The Bishop’s Wife December 20 Debonair angel Cary Grant is dispatched to help bishop David Niven sort out his personal and financial problems. Co-stars Loretta Young as the bishop’s wife, and features Karolyn Grimes (Zuzu Bailey) as their daughter. n It’s A Wonderful Life December 21 In desperate financial straits, suicidal George Bailey is interrupted by good-hearted-butbumbling Angel Second Class (hasn’t earned his wings yet!) Clarence Oddbody.
Pines Dinner Theater
n Over the River and Through the Woods November 8 – December 23 Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year with the Marshall family! As they prepare for their annual traditional family holiday, a winter storm approaches. With the family’s holiday tradition upended, will the true meaning of the season shine through? Don’t miss this heartwarming story that proves, even in the worst of times, the spirit of Christmas is alive and well. Show Schedule: Matinees (12:30 p.m. dinner & 2 p.m. show): Weds., Thurs., Sat. & Sun. Evenings (6:30 p.m. dinner & 8 p.m. show): Fri. and Sat. Ticket Price for Dinner and Show: Adult: $50.00 Senior (60+): $49.00 Student (10-16): $35.00 Child (2-9): $20.00 Show Only Ticket Price: Adult: Preferred seating - $30.00, General admission - $25.00 Child: Preferred seating - $20.00, General admission - $15.00 448 North 17th Street (610) 433-2333 www.pinesdinnertheatre.com
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Focus on the Arts
Civic Theatre Stage
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n Rock of Ages February 9 - 25 Book by Chris D’Arienzo/Music by Your Favorite Rock Bands Nicknamed Broadway’s “Bad Boy” hit, this Tony Awardnominated musical takes you back to the times of big rock bands with big egos playing big guitar solos and sporting even bigger hair! Familiar favorites such as “We’re Not Gonna Take It,” “Hit Me with Your Best Shot,” and “Don’t Stop Believing” accompany your trip back to the rocking ‘80s. You’ll want to return night after night to relive your days of glory. February 9 – 25 Thursday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m. (February 18 and 25 at 2 p.m.) TICKETS $34 Regular $32 Student/Senior Except Thursday, February 15, 22 $31 Regular $29 Student/Senior (Plus a $3 per ticket processing fee)
Order tickets by phone: (610) 432-8943 Order in person: 527 N. 19th Street, Allentown Box Office Hours Monday – Friday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Call (610) 432-8943 for information on group tickets.
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n Monty Python and the Holy Grail Sing-Along Come sing, chant, and quote along with Monty Python and the Holy Grail. Fun-and-games will start at 7 p.m. with the movie at 7:30 p.m. Dress up as your favorite character from the film and get free small popcorn. 19th St. Theatre November 18; 7 p.m.
Muhlenberg College Theater
n New Voices / New Visions, Part 2 November 29 - December 3 n Conform, a World Premiere, by Joseph McNaney, directed by Irene Martinko; The Bald Soprano,
by Eugène Ionesco, directed by Brydon Geisler Conform is a coming-of-age comedy with a twist. Sam, a teenager with Tourette Syndrome, battles his way through high school with the help of his imagined superhero persona. This fast-paced, incisive play examines the nature of masculinity and ponders whether disabilities may sometimes be superpowers in disguise. n In The Bald Soprano, a thoroughly mundane conversation between two couples devolves into a struggle to stay sane. Ionesco’s iconic 1950 masterpiece depicts a shifting reality, in which secrets are revealed and time is ultimately an illusion. For mature audiences. Studio Theatre, Trexler Pavilion for Theatre & Dance Muhlenberg College November 29 – December 1, 8 p.m. December 2, 2 & 8 p.m. December 3, 2 p.m. For tickets and other information: muhlenberg.edu/theatre or 484-664-3333
Art
n Gelah Penn, “High Tide” Through January 10, 2018 Penn will complete a dramatic installation in the Baker CFA Galleria Bridge area using various materials. Artist Talk December 6, 5 - 6 p.m. in the Recital Hall n William Hudders, “three views” Through January 10, 2018 Three large plein-air works by NYC/Easton-based painter William Hudders Works in the Center for the Arts n David Ambrose: Conversations with Yesterday Through November 18 Distinguished Muhlenberg alumnus David Ambrose will exhibit 20 new paintings completed in 2016 - 2017 n Creative Research November 29 – January 10 at Muhlenberg College; works by Muhlenberg College faculty and
staff who are engaged in creative research. Reception: November 29, 5 – 6 p.m. n Chris Coleman and Anthony Panzera: Still Rendering November 29 – January 15 Coleman will combine video and photo works with original drawings from Anthony Panzera’s “The Leonardo Series.” Opening Reception: November 29, 5 – 6:30 p.m. For more information: http:// www.muhlenberg.edu/gallery
Jewish Community Center
Note: Unless specified otherwise, everything takes place at JCC of the Lehigh Valley, 702 N. 22nd St., Allentown.
Theater
n Stagemakers Youth Theater Presents “Seussical the Musical Jr.” Horton the Elephant, the Cat in the Hat and all of your favorite Dr. Seuss characters spring to life onstage in Seussical Jr., a fantastical musical extravaganza from Tony-winners Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty. Show Dates: November 16 at 7 p.m. November 18 at 7 p.m. November 19 at 2 p.m. Tickets: $15/Adults; $10/ Children. JCC Members: $11; Adults; $8-Children Tickets may be purchased by calling 610-435-3571 or going online at lvjcc.org/stagemakers For more information, contact Brenda Finberg bfinberg@lvjcc.org n NYC Bus Trip: “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” on Broadway Your day includes private deluxe motor coach transportation to and from New York’s Theatre District and a ticket to “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” in the rear orchestra area of the theatre. December 3 8 a.m. – 9 p.m. Price: $200; JCC Members: $165 To register, please call 610-435-3571 or go online at lvjcc.org/Charlie. For more information, please
contact Tracy Sussman at lvjcc.org/ tsussman. n Stagemakers Youth Theater Auditions: “Alice in Wonderland Jr.” December 4, 5 The ever-curious Alice’s journey begins innocently enough as she chases the White Rabbit. Her adventures become increasingly stranger as she races the Dodo Bird, gets tied up with Tweedledum and Tweedledee, raps with a bubble-blowing Caterpillar, and beats the Queen of Hearts at her own game! December 4, 5 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm Ages: Pre-K – 12th Grade Auditions are free and open to the community For more information, please contact Brenda Finberg at bfinberg@lvjcc.org or visit lvjcc.org/stagemakers.
Art
n Artisan Craft Fair December 10 Look no further for the perfect gift! The JCC’s Artisan Craft Fair features hand-crafted works by artists from here in the Lehigh Valley and elsewhere. Ceramics, jewelry, clothing, textile art, woodworking, mosaics, prints, and more - there is something for everyone. December 10, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Price: FREE For more information, please contact Monica Friess at mfriess@ lvjcc.org. n Art Gallery Opening: Jacqui Cornette Schwartz & Kim Hogan Thursday, January 4 6:30 p.m. – 8 p.m. (Gallery runs until February 16) Price: FREE Jacqui Cornette (Schwartz) revives an ancient technique called “encaustic,” a combination of waxes, resins, and pigments that are applied in a molten state, ultimately fused with high heat for permanency -- a technique that dates back to 5 BCE. Opening event receptions are free to the community and include refreshments and live music by the duo “Just So” featuring Mickey
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Freeman and Jon Fields. For more information, please contact Monica Friess at mfriess@ lvjcc.org. n J-Arts: Adult Mosaics Class Learn to create your own beautiful mosaics as Cindy Schneider shows how to safely handle glass and to use appropriate cutting tools. Get ready to have fun and enjoy this relaxing, creative, form of expression. All materials are included in this course. To register, please call 610-435-3571 or go online at lvjcc.org/adultsatthej. For more information, please contact Amy Sams at lvjcc.org/ asams. Fridays beginning January 19 3:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Price: $136; JCC Members $116 n JSchool of Visual & Performing Arts Classes Whether Jeff is teaching guitar, piano, or beginner drums, his approach to music instruction does not stick to a rigid curriculum that uses a onesize-fits-all approach. Whether they’re beginners, intermediate, or advanced, students require personal attention and adaptation to help them excel. n Voice Lessons Mondays – Fridays, by appointment (Ages: Kindergarten – Adults) Students will learn proper vocal technique through personalized instruction, fundamental singing exercises and expansion of vocal music repertoire. Lessons run for 30 minutes n Acting and Coaching Lessons Mondays – Fridays, by appointment (Ages Kindergarten – 12th Grade) Learn the craft and business of acting and auditioning for stage, film, and television work. Gain self-confidence and find your own unique voice. Lessons run for 30 minutes. n Piano, Drum, Guitar Lessons Mondays – Fridays, by appointment (Ages Kindergarten – Adults)
n Private Art Lessons with Cotty Kilbanks Thursdays 4-5 p.m. (Ages 5 – 12) Cotty Kilbanks worked in the animation industry in NYC and LA for many major studios and shows. She is a graduate of Syracuse University and is also a successful children’s book illustrator, painter, and portrait artist. Cotty offers private and semi-private lessons in cartooning, anime, drawing, painting in all media and Sculpey® clay sculpting. To register or for more information about any of our JSchool of Visual & Performing Arts Classes, please call 610-4353571 or visit lvjcc.org/artschool. Winter Classes begin Jan. 2 n JCC Author Series: Rebecca Einstein Schorr November 19 Recent Jewish Book Award winner Rebecca Einstein Schorr will discuss her book, “The Sacred Calling: Forty Years of Women in the Rabbinate” and “This Messy Life,” a blog she created after becoming a reluctant stay-at-home mom. Meet the author and mingle with friends at a brunch preceding the event. Sunday, November 19 10:30 a.m. Price: $10; JCC Members: $7 To register, please call 610-435-3571 or go online at lvjcc.org/authorseries. For more information, please contact Monica Friess at mfriess@lvjcc.org. n Special event reminder Tickets are still available for “The McCartney Years,” a tribute show hailed by Beatles promoter Sid Bernstein as “the best on the scene.” The Canary Cavaliers, a 20-piece jazz orchestra in the tradition of Count Basie and Duke Ellington, will open the show, and the William Allen Chorale will perform during “Hey Jude” and “The Long and Winding Road.” All music is performed live, and is true to the original arrangements. For more information, or to donate, contact Bob Sperling at 610-398-3527 or bsperl8520@aol.com. n
NEW TO THE NEIGHBORHOOD
Shipping and mail services available at Lehigh Valley Mailbox Going on a long trip? They also offer a virtual mailbox. LVM can scan your incoming mail, send you images of it, and then follow through on your instructions for further processing. Rates depend on the level of services needed, so contact Lehigh Valley Mailbox for further details.
Photo by Jane Geist Photography
Convenient and comprehensive are two words that describe Lehigh Valley Mailbox on St. Cloud Street. Owner Joe Collins said the business will offer the usual packand-ship services, as well as post office box rentals. Customers can also arrange for packages and similar materials to be delivered there. “When it arrives, we’ll sign for it if necessary, and then send you an email or text message to pick it up,” Collins said. He added that 11 million delivered packages were stolen last year, so this service will give customers an added level of security. Lehigh Valley Mailbox deals with the major carriers: the U.S. Postal Service, Federal Express, UPS and DHL.
Lehigh Valley Mailbox 526 N. St. Cloud Street lvmailbox.com 484-275-0574 Hours: Monday through Friday 8 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday 8 a.m.-1 p.m. n
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EXISTING BUSINESSES
Mink’s Candies: A Fairgrounds favorite for more than 60 years
fine dining Where the OWner Wears
an aprOn, nOt a tie!
1926 West Allen street AllentoWn 610-434-2628 henryssAltoftheseA.com
bar F music F food F fun F bar F music F food F fun F bar
$3
Make it a handmade holi day!
10 th annual
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indiemade craft market ket December 2, 2017
10:00 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Starlite Ballroom
1221 S. Front Street, Allentown, PA
hip, handmade crafts F one-of-a-kind gifts and garments cool paintings and artwork F funky, vintage goods SWAG bags for the first 50 attendees by
www.indiemadecraftmarket.com bar F music F food F fun F bar F music F food F fun F bar
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If your sweet tooth won’t be satisfied by the same old chocolate bars, peanut butter cups and gumdrops, do what the West End’s candy connoisseurs have done for decades, and stop at Mink’s Candies in the Allentown Fairgrounds Farmers Market. Mink’s well-known stand, still family-owned and operated at the same location for more than 60 years, carries between 300 and 400 different kinds of sweet treats, most of which are available year‘round. And you’ll find an array of old-fashioned Christmas candies that’s hard to beat. For example, “We carry licorice ‘coal’ candy, in drawstring bags with golden labels, for people who haven’t behaved well,” said coowner Rod Mink. “Many people buy it as a gag gift, but many more buy it because they just like its authentic taste. Most American versions are artificially flavored, but ours is flavored with actual licorice paste. “We also have a big selection of old-fashioned hard candy, both solid and filled types,” he added, “as well as cut rock candy.” Cut rock candy comes in cylindrical chunks, and each piece has an intricate design that runs completely through it; you’ve probably seen tubes of slice-andbake cookie dough that are similar
Photo by R. Ayers Photos by Rod Mink
Mink’s Candies Allentown Fairgrounds Farmers’ Market 610-435-7054 sales@minkscandies.com
in structure. Mink’s has plenty of Christmas novelty items as well, such as chocolate lollipops molded into tree or snowman shapes, themed gummies and jujubes, and special milk chocolate nonpareils. “Those are much larger than the usual kind,” said co-owner Buddy Mink. “They’re shaped like stockings, bells, wreaths and other holiday items. And instead of being covered with a single color of candy beads, they’re decorated with several colors, arranged to form a design on top.” Mink’s also carries “candy dish” favorites, such as chocolate straws – thin hard candy shells filled with chocolate – jelly-filled hard candy shells molded to look like raspberries, and high-quality extra-thin ribbon candy. Barleysugar-based clear candy toys, loose or mounted on lollipop sticks, are other traditional holiday staples. And if you want to surprise a retro-candy devotee with an offbeat stocking stuffer, Mink’s is the place to go. Childhood favorites abound – licorice allsorts, Necco wafers, wax bottle, B B Bats, Mary Janes, root beer barrels, Turkish Taffy – even candy cigarettes and bubble-gum cigars! And when was the last time you saw C. Howard’s violet-scented gum for sale? n
Designs by
Maria Anastasia Holiday Open House
Thursday and Friday, November 16 & 17, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, November 18, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD GIFT STORE
Fresh Flowers, Plants, Silks, Candles, Cards, Purses, Scarves, Placemats, Aprons and so much more!
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EXISTING BUSINESSES
All-America Graphics and The Spirit Stores offer customized capabilities are vast. The minimum order for simple designs is one dozen pieces, but All-America has also supplied 90,000 t-shirts for the Belmont Stakes. Olewine is delighted to be part of the Theatre District. “When we were downtown, my customers had to deal with congested traffic and all of those oneway streets. Now we’re a lot more accessible to them, and the atmosphere is more subdued. This is a much more desirable location for us and our clients.” All-America Graphics 1832 W. Green Street 610-437-9500 allamericagraphics.com n Photo by Jane Geist Photography
All-America Graphics, located at 1832 W. Green Street, is a imprinting veteran. In fact, 2017 marked its 30th year in business. “We started in 1987 at 11th and Turner in Allentown,” owner Marty Olewine said. “We later moved to the business incubator in the old Mack Truck building, transferred our operation in ’95 to the former Hess’s auto center building, and came to the West End last August.” All-America produces screen-printed and embroidered hats, shirts, jackets, bags and related materials. “We can print from one to 10 colors including in some puff, glitter and metallic inks, and our embroidery department offers more than 100
stock colors of thread,” Olewine said. The company also offers custom color matching, and design
services either to reproduce an existing team or corporate logo, or create something entirely new. The shop’s production
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Joe Collins, owner of The Spirit Stores located at 526 North St. Cloud Street, has been in the imprinting business for about 20 years, five of them at his current location. Specializing in branded/ decorated merchandise, the company produces customized tee shirts, performance apparel, jackets, caps, athletic uniforms, commercial uniforms and other wearables under the 4teedeco name. Much of its merchandise is sold through a network of dedicated online stores. There’s one for the Quakertown Dolphins swim team; another for the Catasauqua Rough Riders, and so on. Team organizers select the range of goods including colors, sizes, logo placement and more. Customers place their personalized orders online and pay by credit card. The finished
goods are delivered directly to the club’s location. Embroidery is available, but Collins said the shop decorates primarily with transfers and cut vinyl with special features, such as transfers that change color in sunlight, glow in the dark or reflect light. They even offer rhinestone-encrusted decorations, according to Collins. The company’s other division, 4yourpromos, provides a vast array of imprinted promotional products including customized mugs, pens, backpacks, calculators, balloons, lanyards, umbrellas and food gifts. The Spirit Stores 526 North Saint Cloud St. Unit #2 484-275-0574 4yourpromos.com 4teedeco.com thespiritstores.com n
Photo by Jane Geist Photography
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Computer SaleS, ServiCeS, upgradeS, maintenanCe managed it ServiCeS video SurveillanCe SaleS & ServiCe network deSign & network Support SyStem SeCurity deSign & deployment h o S t e d e x C h a n g e • a n t i v i r u S • a n t i m a lwa r e d ata B a C k u p a n d d i S a S t e r r e C o v e r y phone SyStem SaleS & ServiCe 1728 West Allen Street 610.351.4994
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18104
www.techdatapcs.com WINTER 2017
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HISTORY BUFF
Once upon a time, there were TWO Thanksgivings
susanbellajewelry.com | 610.434.8001 1746 West Allen Street, Allentown
1801 Liberty Street Allentown, PA
Happy hour Monday thru Saturday (610) 437‐4941 Family friendly with off street parking www.ringersroost1801.com Fun place to watch games on the NFL ticket
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1801Liberty Street, Allentown, Hour Monday thru SaturdayPA
Family
(610) 437- 4941
www.ringersroost1801.com
Friendly w/ Off Street Parking 12 WEST END LIVING
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Fun
Place to watch games on the NFL Ticket
Between Abe Lincoln’s November 1863 proclamation and October 1939, Americans celebrated Thanksgiving on the last Thursday of November. In 1939, America was still digging its way out of the Depression. The Christmas shopping season didn’t begin until Thanksgiving had passed. That meant no store decorations, no merchandising, no special promotions. Nothing. November’s last Thursday that year was the 30th, and thenPresident Franklin D. Roosevelt reasoned that moving Turkey Day up a bit would give merchants an extra week to fatten their coffers. So in August of that year, he announced that the upcoming Thanksgiving would fall on the fourth Thursday of November. That’s when things hit the fan. Republican Alf Landon, said the action was “another illustration of the confusion which [Roosevelt’s] impulsiveness has caused so frequently during his administration. If the change has any merit at all, more time should have been taken working it out... instead of springing it upon an unprepared country with the omnipotence of a Hitler.” Holiday travel plans were disrupted for millions of people. College football teams that had scheduled their season-final Thanksgiving Day games for November 30 were caught flatfooted. Calendar-makers suddenly found that current goods were
obsolete, and the 1940 calendars they had already printed were no good, as well. The entire country was divided. A Gallup poll determined that Americans overall disapproved of the change, 52% to 38%. But it also found that Democrats approved, 52% to 48%; Republicans opposed it 79% to 21%. And because of that partisan split, November 30 was called “Republican Thanksgiving,” and November 23 (“Democrat Thanksgiving”) was nicknamed “Franksgiving” by Thomas D. Taggart, Jr., who was then mayor of Atlantic City. The issue was so contentious that 23 states and the District of Columbia marked the holiday on November 23. Twenty-two other states stuck with November 30, and Colorado, Mississippi and Texas decided to observe both dates. The next two years saw similar splits. It actually took a joint resolution of Congress, signed into law by FDR, to settle the matter, making the fourth Thursday of November the official, one-andonly Thanksgiving Day. Although most states changed their laws immediately, some did not. Texas was the last holdout; its final last-Thursday celebration was in 1956. And remember Roosevelt’s impetus? Boosting retailers’ profits? The Commerce Department surveyed merchants in 1941, and discovered that the extra week really added no significant kick to the cash registers. n
EXISTING BUSINESS
Sleepy Cat Urban Winery adds party space Sleepy Cat Urban Winery recently opened an attached party room to its facilities at 1840 W. Allen Street. The space is approximately 700 square feet and can seat up to fifty people for meals, making it an ideal location for birthday parties, bridal showers and similar gatherings. “We kept the walls and other decor neutral, so hosts would
have the freedom to decorate as they wish,” said co-owner Mark Gerencher. Part of Sleepy Cat’s production area is visible from the party room, bringing guests a bit closer to the winemaking experience. The effect is similar to that of the Allentown Brew Works’ first floor dining area. Amenities include tables,
chairs and table linens. “Party room patrons can also request bottle service,” Gerencher said. “And our guests are welcome to bring in their own food, whether homemade or catered. We can also recommend caterers for their events.” The room is available during Sleepy Cat’s regular business
hours, Gerencher added. Rental fee is about $200 for four hours, but can vary according to guests’ requirements. Sleepy Cat Urban Winery 1840 W. Allen Street 610-351-2500 Sleepycaturbanwinery.com n
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DONNELLY TRIBUTE
Mike Donnelly, the legendary head coach of the Muhlenberg College football team, passed away in October, after waging the fight of his life – including a bone-marrow transplant -- against leukemia. During his tenure at the school, Mike racked up an astonishing record of 143-76, the best of any football coach in Muhlenberg’s history. He helmed the school’s first undefeated regular season in 2007 and received 13 postseason invitations. Under his guidance, individual players reached their own pinnacles. Nineteen were named All-Americans; the Centennial Conference honored nine of them as “player of the year” and two others as “rookie of the year.” Seven were designated as Academic All-Americans. “Mike was an inspirational leader, someone who cared immensely about his players, his fellow coaches, and the school. He had one of the greatest impacts on
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Photo: Muhlenburg College
Legendary Muhlenberg Coach leaves legacy as a mentor
From 2012 100th win, player Isaiah Vaughn (left), Michael Donnelly (center) and Peyton Helm (right).
the character of our student body, simply because of the sheer volume of lives he’s touched,” said John Williams, Muhlenberg College President since 2015. “His coaching advice was ‘find a way to win,’ and that was something he applied not
just to football, but to academics, and to making your mark in the world as well.” Corey Goff, Muhlenberg’s athletic director and acting football coach, worked with Donnelly for 17 years, five as assistant football coach and
the remainder as athletic director. “He had an infectious personality, and was a captivating storyteller. When he walked into a room, everyone wanted to hear what he had to say. Colleagues, students and athletes really responded to him,” said Goff. “Mike Donnelly was the most influential mentor of my career. He made me a better coach, a better father, and a better husband.” Nick Tranguch played for Donnelly as a starting offensive guard. “He always addressed his players as ‘men,” or “gentlemen’– never as ‘kids.’ He made us understand that football would be a catalyst to make us better people, on the field and off,” said Tranguch. “It didn’t matter to him if you were a third-string kicker or an All-American quarterback. He made us understand that everybody on the team was equally important. That mentality created a sense of brotherhood, and made us better on the field.” n
Where is it?
Epic Cigar & Smoke Lounge
By December1, 2017. One winner will be randomly selected from all the correct entries. Congratulations to John Zimmermann, winner of our fall contest!
West End Important Numbers Got a question? Complaint? Safety concern? Just pick up the phone!
Ambulance: 9-1-1 Animal Control: 610-437-7535 City Information Desk: 610-439-5999 Code Enforcement: 610-437-7661 Code Enforcement - Rental Licensing: 610-437-7694 Community Problems (neighbor disputes): 610-437-7773 Crime Prevention Unit: 610-437-7719 Emergency Medical Services (non-emergency): 610-437-7751 Emergency Medical Services (paramedics): 610-437-7531 Fire: 9-1-1 Graffiti Busters: 610-437-8729 Graffiti in Progress: 9-1-1 Housing Compliance/Inspections: 610-437-7697 Leaf Pickup: 610-437-7638 Mayor Ed Pawlowski: 610-437-7546 Noise Complaints: 610-437-7751 Police Calls (emergency): 9-1-1 Police Calls (non-emergency): 610-437-7751 Police - Vice Unit: 610-437-7726 Rental Unit Inspections: 610-437-7695 Sewer Back-up: 610-437-7639 Sewer Emergencies (after hours): 610-437-7751 State Representative Michael Schlossberg: 610-821-5577 Street Lights: 610-437-7735 SWEEP (Bureau of Recycling and Solid Waste): 610-437-8729 Vacant Property Issues: 610-437-7694 Zoning: 610-437-7630 Zoning Violations: 610-437-4360
Photo by Jane Geist Photography
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
Outstanding selection of premium cigars and accessories Relax in the spacious and comfortable lounge areas! Three big screen TVs! BYOB - ice maker available. 10% off your purchase during Thanksgiving week. 10% to 20% off your entire purchase anytime during the month of December.
$10 off a total purchase of $50 $20 off a total purchase of $100
3119 W. Tilghman Street, Allentown (484) 274-6043 http://epic-cigar-lounge.business.site WINTER 2017
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Minuteman Press Your Neighborhood Post Office
FREE
$1.00 PA Instant Lottery Ticket with any purchase Expires 12/31/17. Limit one per customer. Must present original coupon at time of purchase. Not redeemable for cash. Only redeemable at Tilghman St. location.
OUR SERVICES • US Postal Services - Stamps - Priority & Express - Package Shipping • Boxes & Packing • PA Lottery • Fax Service
WHY CHOOSE US?
• Copies & Color Copies • Printing & Mailing Services • Creative Design • Blueprints • Posters & Banners • Custom Apparel • Promotional Products
Postal Services at Regular Prices!
Pack & ship all of your holiday gifts here!
• Efficient and Friendly Staff • Post Office Services* & Prices • Located at 18th & Tilghman with FREE Parking • New Fully-Stocked Packaging Station • FREE Priority and Express Mail Packaging • Monday - Friday: 8am-6pm Saturday: 8am-2pm • Prepaid UPS/FedEx Drop Offs • Shipping available from our City Center Store • PA Lottery Retailer with On-Line & Instant Tickets • Customer Use Computer Station with Color Printer • New Services Coming Soon! -New Notary Services Coming Soon! - On-Site Shredding • Notary -•Package Receiving Service On-Site Shredding • Package Receiving Service
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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