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  • 🕊️🚗🏟️ Bethlehem Highlights: Tolerance Day, Toll Changes, and Time-Honored Football Rivalry

🕊️🚗🏟️ Bethlehem Highlights: Tolerance Day, Toll Changes, and Time-Honored Football Rivalry

Issue #016 - November 16th, 2023

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Bethlehem Local Buzz
16 Nov

In this issue of Bethlehem Local Buzz…

🌳 Bethlehem's Climate Action: Reducing Emissions, Engaging Community

🚔 Alleged Patient Assault: Bethlehem Township Doctor's Case Heads to Trial

🚗 Chain-Reaction Crash in Bethlehem: 1 Hospitalized, 3 Treated

🕊️ Honoring Gandhi's Legacy: November 16 Marks International Day for Tolerance

🚗 Prepare Your Wallets: Toll Rates Rising on Delaware River Crossings

🏟️ Century-Old Rivalry Continues: Lehigh Hosts Lafayette This Saturday

☀️ Today’s Weather Report:

🎭 Bethlehem Area Events This Weekend

🤩 We Want to Spotlight Your Business!

And more…

"Never regret anything that makes you smile.”

-Mark Twain

Bethlehem’s Bold Climate Challenge: Aiming for Net-Zero by 2040

Bethlehem is on a mission to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040, as outlined in its 2021 Climate Action Plan. The city aims for a 33% emission reduction by 2025 and 60% by 2030, involving the community in sustainable practices like energy audits, using alternative transport, and adopting renewable energy.

The inclusive Climate Challenge encourages participation from all city residents and organizations. The plan also notes significant climate changes, including increased temperatures and rainfall, and identifies the main sources of emissions as energy use in buildings, transportation, and waste management.

Trial Looms for Bethlehem Township Doctor in Sexual Assault Case

Dr. Eric Thomas Cochran, a 52-year-old physician from Bethlehem Township, is set to stand trial in Northampton County Court on charges of sexual assault. The allegations against Cochran, who worked at Concentra Urgent Care in Hanover Township, Northampton County, involve a female patient who sought treatment for a workplace injury. The patient alleges that during follow-up visits, Cochran engaged in inappropriate sexual contact under the guise of medical treatment, an accusation supported by a recorded incident on her cellphone.

Cochran, who waived his right to a preliminary hearing, thus advancing the case to trial, faces one count of felony aggravated indecent assault without consent and four misdemeanor counts of indecent assault without consent.

His attorney, Philip Lauer, has yet to review the evidence but noted Cochran's long-standing reputation as a respected osteopathic physician. Lauer suggested that some physical contact might be consistent with osteopathic treatment, indicating a need for further investigation into the claims. Cochran remains free on $150,000 unsecured bail, with a formal arraignment scheduled for January 18, 2024.

Chain-Reaction Crash in Bethlehem: 1 Hospitalized, 3 Treated

A chain-reaction crash involving three vehicles occurred in Bethlehem, causing injuries to four individuals. The incident took place on Schoenersville Road, just north of Industrial Drive, shortly before 6 p.m. According to Bethlehem Police Capt. Nicholas P. Lechman, the collision started when one vehicle rear-ended another that was stopped in traffic. This impact pushed the struck vehicle into a third vehicle, also stationary.

One of the individuals involved in the crash required hospitalization, while the other three, including each driver and a passenger, were treated at the scene. Fortunately, none of the injuries were deemed serious. The driver responsible for initiating the collision was cited for careless driving. The incident briefly disrupted traffic flow but was promptly addressed by city police.

Honoring Gandhi’s Legacy: November 16th Marks International Day of Tolerance

civilization v pc GIF

This day is dedicated to fostering an environment of respect and appreciation for the diversity of cultures and expressions around the world. It was initiated by the United Nations in 1996, continuing the spirit of the UN Year for Tolerance in 1995, in honor of Mahatma Gandhi. The day underscores tolerance as a fundamental human right and highlights the role of education in preventing intolerance. Celebrations include creating and sharing art, learning about diverse cultures, and spreading messages of tolerance through quotes and discussions.

Prepare Your Wallets: Toll Rates Rising on Delaware River Crossings

Bethlehem residents who frequently travel across the Delaware River should prepare for an upcoming toll increase on several bridges. The Delaware River Joint Toll Bridge Commission has announced a toll hike that will affect commuters and travelers using the bridges spanning the river.

This increase, set to take effect in early 2024, is part of a long-term plan to fund ongoing and future infrastructure projects. The toll for passenger vehicles will see a notable rise, impacting daily commuters and those traveling for leisure or business. The commission has detailed the specific toll rates and the expected revenue, which will be allocated towards maintaining and improving the bridge structures and associated facilities.

A Century Old Rivalry Continues: Lehigh Hosts Lafayette This Saturday

In a highly anticipated matchup, Lehigh University's football team is set to host Lafayette College this Saturday 11/18/23 at 12:00pm in the 159th edition of their storied rivalry. This game, a long-standing tradition, is not just a regular football match but a historic event that has been a cornerstone of both schools' athletic calendars.

Credit: Lehigh University Football - Facebook

The Lehigh Mountain Hawks, under the guidance of their head coach, are preparing to face the Lafayette Leopards in a contest that promises excitement and intense competition. Both teams have been gearing up for this moment, with players and coaches alike understanding the significance of this rivalry. Fans from both universities are expected to fill the stands, adding to the electric atmosphere of this much-awaited game

 Complete Local Sports Schedules:

This Weekend’s Events in Bethlehem Area…

Thurs Nov 16

Fri Nov 17

Sat Nov 18

Sun Nov 19

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