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🕯️🎄 Bethlehem's Winter Wonders: Luminaria Night's Hope, Community Tree Lighting Festivities, and a Pre-Thanksgiving Weather Alert

Issue #019 - November 21st, 2023

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Bethlehem Local Buzz
21 Nov

In this issue of Bethlehem Local Buzz…

🕯️✨ Luminaria Night 2023: A Beacon of Hope in Bethlehem
🛍 Record Crowds Flock to Bethlehem's Christkindlmarkt Opening
🎄 Season's Sparkle: Lehigh Valley's Community Tree Lighting Celebrations

🏛️ Lafayette College to Host 2024 Vice Presidential Debate: A Historic First

🚔 Parking Garage Dispute Turns Violent: Man Stabbed at Wind Creek Bethlehem
🌧 Bethlehem Braces for Pre-Thanksgiving Deluge; Wintry Mix a Possibility

🎭 Bethlehem Area Events This Weekend

🤩 We Want to Spotlight Your Business!

And more…

Bethlehem Braces for Pre-Thanksgiving Deluge; Wintry Mix a Possibility

Bethlehem is bracing for a major pre-Thanksgiving storm that will bring the first significant rainfall in weeks, starting Tuesday afternoon and continuing into Wednesday. The storm, coinciding with peak holiday travel, is forecasted to deliver 1 to 2 inches of rain, with wind gusts reaching 20 to 30 mph. While the primary concern is rain, a brief period of wintry mix is possible in higher elevations like the Poconos, although significant accumulation is not expected.

"If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change.”

-Wayne Dyer

Luminara Night 2023: Illuminating Hope with New Bethany Ministries

In the heart of Bethlehem, a special event is set to cast a warm glow of hope and community spirit. Luminaria Night 2023, organized by New Bethany Ministries, is more than just an evening of beautiful lights; it's a symbol of unity and support for those in need.

New Bethany Ministries, known for its commitment to aiding the less fortunate, has once again orchestrated this event to bring together the Bethlehem community. Luminaria Night, traditionally marked by the lighting of candles placed in sand-filled bags, creates a mesmerizing spectacle that lines the streets and bridges of the neighborhood. This simple yet profound act serves as a beacon of solidarity, illuminating the shared commitment to uplift and support each other.

The event is not just about the visual spectacle; it's a fundraiser aimed at supporting the various programs of New Bethany Ministries. These programs range from providing meals and shelter to those facing homelessness to offering long-term solutions like affordable housing and employment support. The funds raised during Luminaria Night play a crucial role in ensuring these services continue to reach those who need them most.

As the candles flicker in the cool evening breeze, they bring more than just light; they bring hope. They remind us that even the smallest act of kindness, like lighting a candle, can make a significant difference in someone's life. Luminaria Night 2023 is set to be a memorable evening, not just for its beauty but for the warmth and compassion it represents in the Bethlehem community.

Record Crowd Flocks to Bethlehem’s Christkindlmarkt Opening

Bethlehem's Christkindlmarkt, a cherished holiday tradition, has experienced a record-breaking opening weekend, attracting 13,000 visitors, a 34% increase from 2022. The ArtsQuest Center, home to the market, saw about 4,000 shoppers on the first day, the highest ever for an opening day in its 31-year history. The market, known for its diverse range of vendors selling everything from food to art, continues to be a major attraction in the Lehigh Valley during the holiday season.

Lehigh Valley Lights Up: A Guide to the Season’s Tree Lighting Ceremonies

Communities across the Lehigh Valley are preparing to welcome the holiday season with an array of tree lighting ceremonies. These events, each with its unique charm, will offer a mix of music, performances, Santa visits, and festive activities. Key locations include Alburtis, Allentown Arts Park, Bethlehem's Payrow Plaza, and Easton's Centre Square, among others. These gatherings not only light up the trees but also the spirits of the community, marking the beginning of the holiday season.

Lafayette College to Host 2024 Vice Presidential Debate: A Historic First

Lafayette College has been chosen to host the 2024 vice presidential debate, a significant event in the U.S. political calendar. The debate, scheduled for September 25 at the Kirby Sports Center, represents a historic moment for the college, known for its engagement with political figures since the 19th century. While details about the debate format and moderators will be announced later, the college's selection highlights its importance in the national democratic process. This announcement is particularly notable given the ongoing discussions within the Republican National Committee regarding participation in Commission on Presidential Debates-sponsored events.

Casino Clash: Stabbing Incident at Wind Creek Leads to Arrest

A violent dispute in Wind Creek Bethlehem’s parking garage led to the arrest of Diosadado Melendez, 50, from Allentown. The altercation resulted in another man being stabbed multiple times. The Bethlehem City Police's quick response and the use of casino surveillance footage were pivotal in the arrest and charge of Melendez, who now faces serious legal repercussions.

  Complete Local Sports Schedules:

This Week’s Events in Bethlehem Area…

Tues Nov 21

Wed Nov 22

Thurs Nov 23

🦃 HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

Fri Nov 24

Sat Nov 25

Sun Nov 26

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