In this issue of Bethlehem Local Buzz…

❄️ Lehigh Valley's Winter Wallop: Snowstorm Exceeds Expectations, Brings Deep Freeze

🍽 Savor the Flavor: Local Eateries Shine in Hellertown-Lower Saucon Restaurant Week

💔 End of an Era: Historic Moravian University Theater to Be Torn Down

👩‍⚖️ Historic Vote: Bethlehem Poised to Name First Woman as City Solicitor

🚫 Legal Battle Intensifies: St. Luke's Challenges Landfill Expansion Approval

🎭 This Week’s Trivia, Events, Weather, Daily Quotes, and More!

🤩 Support Bethlehem Local Business

“The silence of a snowstorm is profound, offering a moment of deep reflection and peace amidst the chaos of life.”

- Unknown ❄️

Lehigh Valley’s Winter Wallop: Snowstorm Exceeds Expectations, Brings Deep Freeze

As the Lehigh Valley wakes up to a blanket of snow, residents are nearing the end of a significant winter storm that has surpassed initial forecasts. The region, currently under a winter weather advisory, is expected to receive between 4 to 6 inches of snow, a notable increase from the 2 to 4 inches predicted earlier. This snowstorm, coinciding with the coldest air of the season, has seen temperatures plummet into the teens, with daytime highs struggling to surpass the 20s.

The National Weather Service had warned of this arctic blast affecting much of the nation. While the snowfall is expected to taper off soon, its impact lingers with challenging travel conditions and disruptions to daily life. The fluffy and powdery nature of the snow has led to rapid accumulations, prompting residents to exercise caution as they start their day amidst the winter landscape.

Question: What was a unique feature of Burnside Plantation in its later years before it became a museum? 

A) It was the site of a major archaeological dig.

B) It was used as a training ground for military horses.

C) It was home to the Bethlehem Mounted Police Unit horses.

D) It operated as a public park with historical reenactments.

(ANSWER NEAR BOTTOM OF NEWSLETTER)

End of an Era: Historic Moravian University Theatre to be Torn Down 🏛️💔

The Arena Theater at Moravian University, a storied venue that has served as a creative hub for students for over four decades, is facing demolition. This decision is part of the university's broader renovation efforts. The theater's significance extends beyond its physical structure, as evidenced by the heartfelt messages left by students over the years. Its demolition represents not just a physical transformation but also an emotional transition for the university community, as it bids farewell to a space rich in history and memories.

Historic Vote: Bethlehem Poised to Name First Woman as City Solicitor 👩‍⚖️⚖️

The Bethlehem City Council is on the verge of a historic decision to appoint Stephanie J. Steward as the city's first female legal adviser. Steward, an attorney with Goudsouzian and Associates, is nominated for a role traditionally held by men since its establishment in 1986. This move follows the recent trend of increasing female representation in Bethlehem's local government, including the first female-majority council. Steward's appointment would be a landmark achievement for gender equality in the city's legal and political landscape.

Legal Battle Intensifies: St Luke’s Challenges Landfill Expansion Approval 🗑️🚫

In a significant legal move, St. Luke's Hospital - Anderson Campus has appealed Lower Saucon Township's decision to approve the expansion of Bethlehem Landfill. The hospital contends that the approval process breached legal requirements and failed to consider its objections. This latest appeal adds to a series of legal challenges facing the landfill's expansion, highlighting the ongoing debate over environmental and health implications. The hospital's involvement brings attention to the potential impact of the landfill's growth on the surrounding community and environment.

Savor the Flavor: Local Eateries Shine in Hellertown-Lower Saucon Restaurant Week

Restaurant Week in Hellertown and Lower Saucon Township is offering residents a delightful culinary journey this winter. All are serving up special menus and unique dishes. This event highlights the rich culinary landscape of the area and provides an excellent opportunity for the community to come together and support local businesses. With a range of dining options, from cozy cafes to historic hotels, Restaurant Week is a celebration of local flavors and community spirit.

Participating restaurants, include:

• Art Cafe

• Black River Farms

• Braveheart Highland Pub

• Drip - The Flavor Lab

• Hellertown Crossroads Hotel

• Plaza Aztec

• Springtown Inn

• Taste of Italy

• Vassi’s Drive-In

• Yianni’s Taverna

• Wings on Main

Essentials Cafe: Where Every Meal Builds Community in Bethlehem 🍳💕

In the vibrant neighborhood of West Bethlehem, Essentials Cafe (419 3rd Avenue) emerges not just as a culinary destination but as a symbol of community unity and inclusiveness. This pay-what-you-can cafe, situated conveniently next to the West Side Moravian Church, is redefining the dining experience with its innovative approach.

At Essentials Cafe, the concept of dining transcends monetary transactions. The cafe operates on a unique model where customers pay what they can afford, ensuring that everyone has access to nutritious and delicious meals regardless of their financial situation. This model is part of a broader movement aimed at fostering equality and building a stronger, more connected community.

The cafe's hearty menu features a variety of breakfast and lunch items, catering to diverse tastes and dietary needs. The cafe's cozy ambiance, highlighted by its inviting community table, encourages patrons to relax, engage in conversations, and enjoy their meals in a welcoming environment. For those on the go, Essentials Cafe also provides the convenience of grabbing a quick, yet wholesome meal.

Run by a dedicated team of Moravian women, Essentials Cafe is more than just a place to eat; it's a community hub where people from all walks of life come together. The cafe's commitment to accessibility and community support is a testament to the power of compassion and collective effort in making a difference.

In essence, Essentials Cafe is not just feeding the body but nourishing the soul of the Bethlehem community, one meal at a time. Learn how to donate, volunteer, or pay-it-forward here: Essentials Cafe

We ❤️ Local Businesses!

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✅ OWN a Bethlehem Area Business » Apply to be Featured!

  Local Sports Updates & Schedules:

• Lehigh University

• Moravian University

• Bethlehem Catholic High School

• Liberty High School

• Freedom High School

The Answer to “Did You Know” Trivia: 

Correct Answer: C) It was home to the Bethlehem Mounted Police Unit horses from 2009 through early 2017​