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  • đŸ›đŸ€§ New DA | Free Radon Kits | Flu and COVID Uptick | PA Cyberattack | Speakeasy to Return

đŸ›đŸ€§ New DA | Free Radon Kits | Flu and COVID Uptick | PA Cyberattack | Speakeasy to Return

Issue #045- January 3rd, 2024

In this issue of Bethlehem Local Buzz


â„ïžđŸ” Lehigh Valley on Watch for Potential Major Snowstorm Amid Forecast Uncertainties
đŸ›ïžâš–ïž Lehigh County's New DA Gavin Holihan Takes Oath, Prioritizes Violent Crime Reduction
🏠💹 Free Radon Test Kits: American Lung Association's Lifesaving Initiative for Pennsylvanians
🩠🚑 Flu Cases 'Rapidly' Increasing in Pennsylvania, Alongside Slight COVID-19 Uptick
đŸš°đŸ’» Cyberattack on Pennsylvania Water System Raises National Security Alarms
📚🍾 Return of the Roaring Twenties: Bethlehem's Bookstore Speakeasy to Reopen 
🎭 This Week’s Events, Daily Quotes, Trivia, and More!

“And now we welcome the new year, full of things that have never been.”

- Rainer Maria Rilke

Lehigh Valley on Watch for “Potential Major Snowstorm” Amid Forecast Uncertainties ❄

Meteorologists are monitoring a potential winter storm in the Lehigh Valley, with the possibility of the area's first significant snowfall in years. However, uncertainties regarding temperature and storm track make predictions challenging. The storm, expected to arrive this weekend, could bring substantial snowfall, but forecasters are advising caution and waiting for more definitive information as the situation develops.

BETHLEHEM TRIVIA QUESTION: 

Bethlehem Steel, once a major industrial powerhouse in Bethlehem, held a notable distinction during World War II. What was this distinction?

A) The only steel company to produce naval armor in the U.S.

B) The largest supplier of steel for the Golden Gate Bridge

C) One of the largest shipbuilding companies in the world

D) The first steel company to implement automated production lines

(Answer at bottom of Newsletter)

Lehigh County’s New DA Gavin Holihan Takes Oath, Prioritizes Violent Crime Reduction

A wooden gavel.

Gavin Holihan, the new District Attorney of Lehigh County, was officially sworn in, succeeding Jim Martin. Holihan's primary focus is on tackling the rising violent crime in Allentown. He plans to shift the DA's office's resources from minor offenses to more serious crimes and hopes for the decriminalization of marijuana possession. His approach includes advocating for lenient bail conditions for minor offenses while maintaining stricter conditions for serious crimes.

Free Radon Test Kits: American Lung Association’s Lifesaving Initiative for Pennsylvanians

January is National Radon Action Month. In response to a report showing high radon levels in many Pennsylvania homes, the American Lung Association is encouraging residents to test for radon. Winter is an ideal time to test and free test kits are available on the American Lung Association website, and the testing process is simple. High radon levels can be mitigated with affordable remediation systems to reduce the risk of lung cancer caused by radon exposure. You can also experience an interactive online learning program about radon gas here: American Lung Association: Radon Basics

PA Health Alert: Significant Jump in Flu Cases, COVID-19 Follows Suit

Sick Season 6 GIF by Friends

The Pennsylvania Department of Health reports a significant increase in flu cases, with over 13,500 confirmed in the last week, and a slight uptick in COVID-19 cases. While RSV cases have decreased, flu-related emergency department visits and deaths are on the rise. The state continues to monitor the situation closely.

Cyberattack on Pennsylvania Water Systems Raises National Security Alarms

cyber attack computer GIF by Sandia National Labs

The Municipal Water Authority of Aliquippa in Pennsylvania was targeted in a cyberattack, prompting U.S. officials to issue warnings about the vulnerability of water utilities. The thwarted attack, believed to be backed by Iran, targeted a specific Israeli-made device. The incident has highlighted the challenges faced by many small, local water utilities in protecting their systems against cyber threats, amidst concerns about underfunding and the potential for privatization.

Return of the Roaring Twenties: Bethlehem’s Bookstore Speakeasy to Reopen

The Bookstore Speakeasy at 336 Adams Street in South Bethlehem, known for its 1920s theme, is set to reopen in February following an unexplained closure last year. The announcement was made via social media, sparking excitement among local patrons. However, details about the reopening are limited, and the establishment's liquor license status remains uncertain according to the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board.

This Week’s Bethlehem Area Events


Wed Jan 3

Thurs Jan 4

Fri Jan 5

We Want to Spotlight Your Business!

Would you like us to spotlight your local business in front of thousands of Bethlehem area residents in an upcoming issue of Bethlehem Local Buzz?

We â€ïž 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.

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Besides our survey and other polls, another huge way that you can help us is to spread the word for us.

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The Answer to “Did You Know” Trivia: 

C) One of the largest shipbuilding companies in the world.

Bethlehem Steel, founded and based in Bethlehem, was not only the second-largest steel producer in the United States but also one of the largest shipbuilding companies globally. It manufactured over 1,100 warships used in World War II, showcasing its significant contribution to the war effort and its status as a symbol of American industrial manufacturing leadership

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