🚌 Lehigh Valley Highlights: Combating Trafficking, Trans-Bridge's New System & Fountain Hill's Fire Aftermath

In this issue of Bethlehem Local Buzz…

 🛑 Community Unites: Lehigh Valley's Week-long Crusade Against Trafficking

🔥 Fountain Hill Blaze: Kitchen Fire Displaces Residents and 4 Dogs, Officers Hospitalized

🚌 Trans-Bridge Lines Adopts Reservation System for Streamlined Travel

🧠 National Stress Awareness Day 2023: Addressing the Silent Epidemic

🎨 Art with a Heart: Tina Cantelmi's Exhibition Supports Hospice Care

🏆 ⚾️ Texas Rangers Become the 2023 World Series Champions!

 🥶 Freeze Warning in Effect: Hitting 27 Degrees Tonite!

And more…

"If people are doubting how far you can go, go so far that you can’t hear them anymore." 

— Michele Ruiz

Shedding Light on The Shadows: Lehigh Valley’s Fight Against Human Trafficking!

The Lehigh Valley is set to observe its annual Anti-Trafficking Week, spotlighting the grave issue of human trafficking. Judge Jack Panella of the Pennsylvania Superior Court has been at the forefront of this cause, highlighting the multifaceted nature of trafficking, which encompasses both sexual and labor exploitation.

The week, spanning from Thursday to November 11, is packed with events designed to educate and mobilize the community. A standout event is the "Voices of Survivors Art Project" at Northampton Community College, which will display art from survivors and screen the documentary "Hope: Voices of Survivors." The week also features a vigil, symposium, and an award ceremony to recognize local anti-trafficking champions.

Fountain Hill Blaze: Kitchen Fire Displaces Residents, Officers Hospitalized

In a distressing incident in Fountain Hill, a two-alarm kitchen fire erupted early Wednesday morning, leading to the displacement of several residents from a two-story twin home. The fire, which was reported just before 7 a.m. on Seneca Street, saw a swift response from local firefighters who managed to contain the blaze within 10 minutes. While the fire damage was primarily restricted to the kitchen, the entire building suffered from smoke damage. Two police officers, who had bravely entered the building to ensure everyone's safety, were subsequently hospitalized for smoke inhalation. The cause of the fire was determined to be unattended cooking. In the aftermath, the American Red Cross stepped in to assist the displaced residents, providing immediate financial aid for essentials like food, clothing, and shelter. The organization also pledged continued support to help the affected families navigate the recovery process. Additionally, four dogs were also reported to be displaced due to the incident.

Trans-Bridge Adopts Reservation System for Streamlines Travel

In a move to streamline its services, Bethlehem's Trans-Bridge Lines motorcoach company announced a significant change to its operations. Starting Monday, the company's Wall Street routes will transition to a reservation-based system. This decision follows the successful implementation of reservations on the Doylestown/Flemington Schedule earlier this year. Jim JeBran, Executive Vice President/Treasurer of Trans-Bridge Lines, expressed confidence in the smooth transition of the remaining schedules.

The reservation system aims to provide passengers with the assurance of a confirmed seat, eliminating the need to arrive early for boarding. If a particular route reaches its full capacity, the company will either halt bookings or deploy an additional bus, contingent on the availability of drivers and motorcoaches. By the close of 2023, all Trans-Bridge Lines schedules are expected to adopt the reservation system. The company is also collaborating with Transcor Data Services to enhance its online ticketing system, offering passengers easy access to boarding passes and efficient account management.

National Stress Awareness Day: Prioritizing Mental Well-Being

Remembered on November 2nd, 2023, National Stress Awareness Day is an initiative by the International Stress Management Association (ISMA) to highlight the growing concerns of stress in modern society. Established in 1998, the day aims to educate both individuals and organizations about the detrimental effects of stress and offers strategies to combat it. ISMA, focusing on reducing workplace stress, provides resources for businesses to develop stress management programs.

On an individual level, the day promotes self-awareness of stressors and encourages the adoption of coping techniques such as journaling and physical activity. In a world rife with challenges, this day underscores the importance of proactive stress management.

Art with a Heart: Tina Cantelmi’s Exhibition Supports Hospice Care

In a heartwarming collaboration between art and philanthropy, Bethlehem-based artist Tina Cantelmi has unveiled her latest collection, "Glorious Places," at the renowned Apollo Grill. The exhibition, which will run until January 2, 2024, is not just a showcase of Cantelmi's artistic prowess but also a testament to her commitment to community welfare. The proceeds from the sale of the 16-piece collection will directly benefit the Judith Adele Agentis Charitable Foundation (JAACF).

Founded in 2013 by Bob Agentis in memory of his late wife, Judith, the foundation has a noble mission: to provide restaurant-quality meals to hospice patients, their families, and nursing staff. The initiative began at St. Luke's University Health Network's hospice and has since expanded its reach. Beyond meals, JAACF has also ventured into educational endeavors, offering scholarships to aspiring hospice nurses and establishing the JAACF Palliative Care Education and Fellowship Program at St. Luke's University Health Network.

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This Week’s Events in Bethlehem Area…

Thurs Nov 2nd

• David Cook - Alternative Rock

  • 7:30pm - 11:30pm

  • ArtQuest Center at SteelStacks

• Improv House Teams at SteelStacks

  • 8:00pm - 9:00pm

  • Frank Banko Alehouse Cinemas

Fri Nov 3rd

• Dina Hall

  • 5:30-7:30pm

  • Artsquest Center at SteelStacks

• Cory Shelly Live

  • 6:00-10:00pm

  • Mister Lee’s Noodles Bethlehem

• Cerviche

  • 8:00pm

  • Artsquest Center at SteelStacks

Sat Nov 4

• Jack-O-Lantern Lane

  • 10am-5pm

  • Da Vinci Science Center

• PA Bacon Fest (11/4-11/5)

  • 10am-5pm

  • Easton Center Square

Sun Nov 5

• PA Bacon Fest (11/4-11/5)

  • 10am-5pm

  • Easton Center Square

• Dorney Park - Mahoning Valley Speedway Reunion

  • 11am-2:30pm

  • America On Wheels

Have an Event you want us to list?

Complete Local Sports Schedules:

Lehigh University

Moravian University

Bethlehem Catholic High School

Liberty High School

Freedom High School