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🏘 🎸Bethlehem's Latest: Budget developments, Housing Demands, and Honoring Musical Icons

Issue #015 - November 15th, 2023

Author

Bethlehem Local Buzz
15 Nov

In this issue of Bethlehem Local Buzz…

💼 Bethlehem's 2024 Budget: A Leap Towards Enhanced City Services and Infrastructure

🎸 Martin Guitar Museum Honors Joan Baez: A Journey Through Music and Activism

📈 Rising Demand, Limited Supply: Bethlehem's Housing Challenge

♻️ Recycling's Rich History and Modern Impact Celebrated on November 15

⛅️ Today’s Weather Report

🎭 Bethlehem Area Events This Weekend

🤩 We Want to Spotlight Your Business!

And more…

"People who wonder if the glass is half empty or half full miss the point. The glass is refillable." 

-Unknown

Bethlehem’s 2024 Budget: A Leap Towards Enhanced City Services & Infrastructure

Mayor J. William Reynolds unveiled Bethlehem's $113 million budget for 2024, emphasizing the city's excellent financial health. The budget includes a modest 2.6% property tax increase and significant allocations from the American Rescue Plan for infrastructure and public services. Key expenditures include hiring four new paramedics and updating police equipment, with an overall focus on enhancing city services and infrastructure.

Martin Guitar Museum Honors Joan Baez: A Journey Through Music & Activism

Source: Joan Baez - Facebook

The Martin Guitar Museum has launched an exclusive exhibit dedicated to Joan Baez, showcasing her guitars, artwork, and personal items that highlight her influence in folk music and social activism. The exhibit, open through April 2024, provides an in-depth look at Baez's artistic journey and her role in shaping the 1960s folk scene and advocating for social justice.

Rising Demand, Limited Supply: Bethlehem’s Housing Challenge

In Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, the affordable housing crisis is a pressing issue, as discussed in a recent meeting of the Lehigh Valley Planning Commission’s Comprehensive Planning Committee. Mayor J. William Reynolds and other city officials are working on strategies to create more affordable housing options. The city, known for its industrial heritage, has seen a significant increase in job opportunities but a lag in housing development. This imbalance has led to a housing market where demand far exceeds supply, affecting people across all economic backgrounds.

Beautiful modern brick home

Sara Satullo, Bethlehem’s Deputy Director of Community Development, presented the main challenges, including the high cost burden of housing on residents. With the city's median household income at $62,146, a significant portion of the population earns less than $35,000 annually, making it difficult to afford housing.

The city aims to tackle rental housing as a priority, considering the low vacancy rates and the need for more than 1,000 new units, mostly for low-income households. Strategies discussed include updating zoning and land use to encourage a variety of housing types, partnering with organizations for affordable housing projects, and designing programs to bridge the gap between housing vouchers and market rates.

Recycling’s Rich History & Modern Impact Celebrated on November 15th

National Recycling Day, celebrated annually on November 15, serves as a reminder of the critical role recycling plays in environmental conservation. The day's history reflects humanity's long-standing practice of recycling, dating back to periods of resource scarcity. In modern times, recycling has shifted from a focus on nationalism during wartime to a broader environmentalism perspective.

Loop Glow GIF by xponentialdesign

The day encourages individuals to reduce waste, reuse materials, and purchase recycled products. Events across the country, including educational and creative activities, aim to increase awareness and participation in recycling. The day also highlights the significant energy savings achieved through recycling, such as powering TVs, computers, and light bulbs with recycled materials.

 Complete Local Sports Schedules:

Yuengling "LV” Flight Crew Event & Pong Tournament: A Night of Fun @ Palette & Pour

Tonite, November 15, 2023 from 6pm-8pm, Palette & Pour in Bethlehem's ArtsQuest Building is set to host an eagerly anticipated Yuengling "LV" Flight Crew Event, sponsored by Banko Beverage. This event promises to be a highlight of Bethlehem's social calendar, offering a unique blend of entertainment, competition, and community spirit. The evening's main attraction, a lively & oversized "Pong" tournament, invites locals to engage in friendly competition, with the chance to win exciting prizes and showcase their skills in a fun-filled environment.

Courtesy: Yuengling “LV” Flight Crew

In addition to the tournament, attendees can enjoy discounted Musikfest Mug refills on Yuengling Light, a gesture that not only celebrates the region's brewing heritage but also supports local products. This special offer adds to the festive atmosphere of the evening, making it an ideal occasion for both socializing and supporting Bethlehem's vibrant culture.

This Weekend’s Events in Bethlehem Area…

Wed Nov 15

Thurs Nov 16

Fri Nov 17

Sat Nov 18

Sun Nov 19

Have an Event you want us to list?

We Want to Spotlight Your Business!

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We ❤️ Local Businesses!
We know our community is brimming with businesses that have fascinating stories and big hearts. If you're a local business owner making waves, crafting unique experiences, or simply putting a smile on our faces, we want to chat with you! Bethlehem Local Buzz is eager to shine a light on the unsung heroes of our town. Let's collaborate and let the community know what makes your business special. Send us a message, and let's celebrate the spirit of Bethlehem together!

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