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5 Best Roads to Drive in the Lehigh Valley

bestroads
By Ben Youngerman, ArtsQuest Marketing Manager / Photo: Google
Article from Cars & Coffee Magazine

Pennsylvania Routes 611 & 32

Drop the car top and smell the fresh air coming off the Delaware River. This scenic two-lane highway takes you from Easton to New Hope and beyond. The road is narrow but very pretty! (Pro tip: take a quick diversion into New Jersey and stop for donuts at the Stockton Market!)

Lookout Drive/Mountain Drive

Traveling across the mountain near Lehigh University is one of the most scenic and iconic drives in the Lehigh Valley. The steep inclines and declines are fun to navigate for the driving enthusiast. It can also be a romantic hot spot: Stop by the Lehigh Lookout at dawn or sunset for a picturesque view and the perfect smoochin’ location.

Any road with a Covered Bridge

The Lehigh Valley is home to seven of the 200 covered bridges still standing in the state, and five of these are passable by automobile. Driving across these historical relics takes you back in time. It’s even better if you ride across in a vintage or antique car.

Our friends at Discover Lehigh Valley can help you plan the tour: CLICK HERE!

River Drive

River Drive feels like you’re racing in a video game. Cruising next to the Lehigh River, you pass a giant railroad station and plenty of rusted industrial buildings and gates. With its straightaways and soft curves, it’s also fun to pick up a little speed. Plus, the road connects Allentown and Bethlehem, so it feels like a de facto finish line when you get to the end.

Game Preserve Road

Cruising along tree-lined Game Preserve Road in Lowhill and North Whitehall townships is a great way to clear your head. Passing over Jordan Creek a couple of times and the chance to make a pit stop at the Lehigh Valley Zoo are two added perks. Plus, when you’re done, you can head to nearby Shankweiler’s Drive-In, where you can catch a movie without leaving your vehicle.

Whichever road you travel, come to Cars & Coffee Lehigh Valley presented by Chevy 21 for a wonderful morning observing vehicles once a month at SteelStacks!

ArtsQuest “Won’t You Be My Neighbor?” Sweepstakes Official Rules

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. A PURCHASE DOES NOT IMPROVE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. SWEEPSTAKES OPEN ONLY TO PERMANENT LEGAL RESIDENTS OF THE UNITED STATES, WHO ARE AT LEAST 18 YEARS OF AGE. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED.

1. How to Enter. No purchase necessary. To enter the Sweepstakes complete the online form at http://fest.formstack.com/forms/fbac_wontyoubemyneighbor by 11:59PM on Thursday, June 21, 2018. Limit one (1) entry per person. All eligible entries have an equal chance of winning. No automated entry devices and/or programs permitted. No mechanically reproduced entries, alterations, facsimiles or forged entries. All entries become the sole and exclusive property of ArtsQuest, N.A. (“Sponsor”) and receipt of entries will not be acknowledged or returned. Sponsor is not responsible for lost, late, illegible, stolen, incomplete, invalid, unintelligible, misdirected, postage due, technically corrupted or garbled entries, which will be disqualified, or for problems of any kind whether mechanical, human or electronic. Proof of submission will not be deemed to be proof of receipt by Sponsor.

2. Eligibility. Participation open only to permanent legal residents of the United States who are at least 18 years of age as of June 22, 2018. Officers, directors, and employees of Sponsor, members of these persons’ immediate families (spouses, parents, children, and siblings, and their spouses regardless of where they reside), and persons living in the same households as these persons (whether or not related thereto) are not eligible to enter or win the Sweepstakes. Void where prohibited, taxed or restricted by law.

3. Random Drawing/Odds. Twenty-five (25) winners will be selected in a random drawing from all eligible entries. The drawing will take place on or about June 22, 2018. Odds of winning depend on the number of eligible entries. By entering the Sweepstakes, entrants fully and unconditionally agree to be bound by these Official Rules, including the release and waiver of liability contained herein, and the decisions of the judges, and Sponsor, which will be final and binding in all matters relating to the Sweepstakes.

4. Prizes. Twenty-five (25) grand prizes (“Grand Prize”): Two (2) film passes for the Frank Banko Alehouse Cinemas. Total approximate retail value (ARV) of each prize package is $20. Prizes are non-transferable. No substitutions or cash redemptions. In the case of unavailability of any prize, Sponsor reserves the right to substitute a prize or portion thereof of equal or greater value. All federal, state and local taxes, meals, gratuities, travel upgrades, incidentals, fees, service charges, surcharges, insurance costs or other unspecified costs or expenses associated with use of the prize are the sole responsibility of winner and/or his or her travel companion. Prize may be subject to restrictions imposed by prize sponsors.

5. Notification. Winner will be notified by email on or about the week following the Drawing and will be required to sign and return, where legal, an Affidavit of Eligibility and Liability/Publicity Release within seven (7) days of prize notification. If winner cannot be contacted within three (3) calendar days of first notification attempt, if any prize or prize notification is returned as undeliverable, if any winner rejects his/her prize, or in the event of noncompliance with these Sweepstakes Official Rules, such prize will be forfeited and an alternate winner will be selected from all remaining eligible entries. Upon prize forfeiture, no compensation will be given. Limit one winner and one prize.

6. Conditions; Waiver and Release. All federal, state and local taxes are the sole responsibility of the winner. Participation in Sweepstakes and acceptance of prize constitutes winner’s acknowledgement and acceptance of the Official Rules and winner’s permission for Sponsor to use his/her name, address (city and state), likeness, photograph, picture, portrait, voice, biographical information and/or any statements made by each winner regarding the Sweepstakes or Sponsor for advertising and promotional purposes without notice or additional compensation, except where prohibited by law. Prize awarded “as is” without any representation or warranty by Sponsor. Winner assumes all risks associated with use of the prize and participation in prize-related activities. Sponsor is not responsible if any scheduled event is delayed, postponed, or canceled for any reason. Accommodations subject to availability. Winner is solely responsible for observing and abiding by prize sponsors’ rules and regulations or terms and conditions for use of prize. By participating, entrants and winner agree to release and hold harmless Sponsor and their respective parent companies, subsidiaries, affiliates, partners, representatives, agents, successors, assigns, employees, officers and directors, from any and all liability, loss, harm, damage, injury, cost or expense whatsoever including without limitation, property damage, personal injury and/or death arising from, relating to, or which may occur in connection with, preparation for, travel, or participation in the Sweepstakes, possession, acceptance and/or use or misuse of prize, or preparation for, travel to or from, and participation in any Sweepstakes-related activity, and for any claims based on publicity rights, defamation or invasion of privacy. Each entrant hereby agrees to indemnify Sponsor against any claims, damages, liabilities, costs and expenses (including attorney fees) arising out of or resulting from and breach by entrant of these Official Rules. Entrants who do not comply with these Official Rules, or who attempt to interfere with this Sweepstakes in any way, shall be disqualified.

7. Additional Terms. Sponsor reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to cancel, terminate, modify, extend or suspend this Sweepstakes should Sponsor determine, in its sole discretion, that fraud, mistake, or other causes beyond its control corrupt or affect the administration, security, fairness or proper conduct of the Sweepstakes. In such case, Sponsor will select the winner from all eligible entries received prior to and/or after (if appropriate) the action taken by Sponsor. Sponsor reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to disqualify any individual it finds, in its sole discretion, to be tampering with the entry process or the operation of the Sweepstakes. Sponsor may prohibit an entrant from participating in the Sweepstakes or winning a prize if, in its sole discretion, it determines that said entrant is attempting to undermine the legitimate operation of the Sweepstakes by cheating, hacking, deception, or other unfair playing practices or intending to annoy, abuse, threaten or harass any other entrants or Sponsor representatives.

CAUTION: ANY ATTEMPT BY AN ENTRANT TO DELIBERATELY UNDERMINE THE LEGITIMATE OPERATION OF THE SWEEPSTAKES MAY BE A VIOLATION OF CRIMINAL AND CIVIL LAWS AND SHOULD SUCH AN ATTEMPT BE MADE, THE SPONSOR RESERVES THE RIGHT TO SEEK DAMAGES FROM ANY SUCH PERSON TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW.

The Sweepstakes and these Official Rules will be governed by and interpreted in accordance with the laws of the State of Pennsylvania. Unless expressly prohibited by governing law, entrants agree that any and all disputes, claims or causes of action in connection with this Sweepstakes shall be resolved individually without resort to any form of class action. Any and all claims, judgments, and awards shall be limited to actual, direct out-of-pocket expenses incurred, but in no event and under no circumstances will entrant be permitted to claim or obtain indirect, incidental, consequential or punitive damages or any other damages other than actual, direct out-of-pocket expenses.

8. List of Winner. To obtain the name of the winning individual, send a self-addressed, stamped envelope by June 22, 2018 to: ArtsQuest / “Won’t You Be My Neighbor?” Sweepstakes Winner, ATTN: Marketing Manager: Ben Youngerman, 25 W Third St, Bethlehem, PA 18015.

9. Sponsor. ArtsQuest

Celebrate the FIFA World Cup™ at the 2018 FIFA World Cup™ SoccerFest & Viewing Party at SteelStacks

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Festival, presented by Bethlehem Steel FC, will screen every match June 14-July 15

No U.S. Men’s Team, no problem! From Germany’s powerhouse team and Iceland’s underdogs to Ronaldo’s Portugal and Messi’s Argentina, there’s no shortage of competitors to root for as 32 teams vie for the FIFA World Cup™, the most prestigious prize in international soccer. Join ArtsQuest at SteelStacks June 14-July 15 to experience soccer’s greatest spectacle as it broadcasts all the matches from Russia at the 2018 FIFA World Cup™ SoccerFest & Viewing Party at SteelStacks, presented by Bethlehem Steel FC.

SoccerFest kicks off June 14 as Russia faces off against Saudi Arabia at 11 a.m., and attendees can catch every match on the Levitt Pavilion and PBS39 outdoor screens through the finals on July 15.

Additional free SoccerFest highlights include:

The Original Bethlehem Steel FC
June 16, 11 a.m.
Join soccer historian Daniel Paul Morrison for a free presentation on the original Bethlehem Steel FC (1914-1930), the first professional soccer club from America to play in Europe and a five-time winner of the National Cup, now known as the U.S. Open Cup.

Children’s Soccer Clinic presented by Bethlehem Steel FC
June 16, 11:45 a.m.
Children and youth soccer players ages 6-12 are invited to learn a variety of soccer skills and techniques. The hands-on event, led by Bethlehem Steel FC and Philadelphia Union Academy staff and players, is open to the first 200 children who register.

Youth Soccer Clinic for Children with Disabilities presented by Good Shepherd Pediatrics
June 23, 9:30 a.m.
This engaging soccer experience is designed to teach children with disabilities the joy of soccer. Open to ages 4-17, the clinic offers one-on-one support from players and coaches to help strategize adaptive techniques. Participants learn basic soccer skills and gain enthusiasm for the sport; no soccer experience is necessary.

Cultural Exchange Soccer Clinic presented by Lehigh Valley United
June 23, 1 p.m.
Ages 7-14 can take part in this hands-on soccer clinic and event, led by LVU staff, players and adult volunteers representing countries and cultures participating in the 2018 FIFA World Cup™. Open to the first 200 children; French and Spanish instructors will be available.

To register for the clinics, visit www.discoverlehighvalley.com/soccerfest.

Partners helping to make the free 2018 FIFA World Cup™ SoccerFest & Viewing Party possible include Bethlehem Steel FC, Discover Lehigh Valley, Kwik Goal, Klunk & Millan Advertising, Garfield Group, Lehigh Valley United and St. Luke’s University Health Network. For a full lineup of matches and other events, visit www.discoverlehighvalley.com/soccerfest.

5 Questions with Martye Cohen

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The staff of Cohen, Feeley, Altemose & Rambo take great pride in being involved in our community on many levels. In fact, all of the attorneys at the firm participate in community programs and social organizations throughout the Valley.

For the past several years, Cohen, Feeley, Altemose & Rambo has been supporting the programming at SteelStacks, primarily the free Levitt Pavilion summer concerts and the ¡Sabor! Latin Festival. This year, they decided step up as the presenting sponsor of ¡Sabor! Latin Festival, an event that draws more than 10,000 people annually to the SouthSide. Here’s what Martye Cohen had to say about why it’s so important to get involved in your community.

ArtsQuest: Martye, Cohen, Feeley, Altemose & Rambo has previously been involved with ¡Sabor!, but this year you stepped up to become the event’s presenting sponsor. What drove that decision?

Martye Cohen: We were involved last year and attended the event. It was great! The people were having a great time including all of us. It’s a happy occasion and I met some terrific people. The world is all about people so we stepped up to be part of the program in a big way.

AQ: Why do you feel it’s important to offer events like ¡Sabor! at SteelStacks?

MC: These events are important for everyone. SteelStacks is a great venue – the genus itself draws people.

AQ: What’s your favorite part of the festival?

MC: The music and dancing. I really enjoy watching everyone dancing.

AQ: As a law firm, how does being part of an event like ¡Sabor! help connect you with the community?

MC: It is important for us to give back to the communities where we live and work. By being part of this event, we not only support the community but meet great people and learn about them and the culture.

AQ: Cohen & Feeley has a strong presence throughout the SouthSide. What are some of the other initiatives and events you’re involved with?

MC: We, of course, support SteelStacks and ArtsQuest as much as we can. In addition, we try to provide ideas and financial support for other SouthSide and Lehigh Valley-based organizations.

We are in partnership with the Neighborhood Health Centers of the Lehigh Valley (NHCLV), located at Donegan Elementary School. We are also developing a direct referral process making legal services more accessible for our community members.

¡Sabor! Latin Festival
presented by Cohen, Feeley, Altemose, Rambo Personal Injury Law

JUNE 22-24
SteelStacks

More Info

Discover the Untold Story of the Original Bethlehem Steel FC During SoccerFest at SteelStacks June 16

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For the past three years, the City of Bethlehem has been home to the entertaining, engaging and highly competitive Bethlehem Steel FC, the official USL affiliate of Philadelphia Union of Major League Soccer. One-hundred years ago, however, the city was home to one of the most successful professional soccer clubs in U.S. history, albeit one few have ever heard of.

On June 16, 11 a.m., the community is invited to join soccer historian Daniel Paul Morrison at the ArtsQuest Center at SteelStacks for a free presentation on the original Bethlehem Steel Football Club, the first professional soccer club from America to play in Europe and a five-time winner of the National Cup, now known as the U.S. Open Cup. The event is part of the Lehigh Valley SoccerFest & Viewing Party presented by Bethlehem Steel FC, which coincides with World Cup Russia from June 14-July 15.

Started as an amateur club in the early part of the 20th century, the Bethlehem Steel FC soon found immense success on the pitch, turning professional in 1914 with the financial backing of then-Bethlehem Steel President Charles M. Schwab. The club, which went 162-8-1 from 1913-’19, became the first U.S. pro club to play in Europe when it toured Sweden in 1919, and it was also a six-time winner of the American Cup. The team’s last season was spring 1930.

During the 1990s, Morrison developed a profound interest in Bethlehem Steel FC due, in large part, to the fact that his two great-uncles, US Soccer Hall of Famer Robert Morrison and Joseph Morrison, played for the club. Over the years, the Bucks County resident has done extensive research on the team and its history, combing through more than 3,000 articles and newspapers while collecting a variety of memorabilia on the club including old photos and medals. In August 2017, Morrison was featured in Sports Illustrated for his work in keeping the team’s storied past alive.

“As a lifelong soccer player and fan, the story of the first Bethlehem Steel FC was so amazing to discover,” says ArtsQuest Chief Operating Officer Curt Mosel, who played soccer throughout childhood and worked for the Chicago Fire of the MLS in the late ’90s and early 2000s. “I was introduced to Daniel Morrison and the Bethlehem Steel FC legend through a video that the Philadelphia Union put together when they adopted the original Steel team’s brand and story as part of their third kit a few years back. It was impressive how much of the Bethlehem Steel FC’s history Daniel knew and had preserved through a variety of stories and memorabilia he had collected. This is a little known but important part of soccer’s story in America and no one knows more about it than him.”

During his presentation, Morrison will talk about the history of the team, as well as how Bethlehem Steel’s success attracted some of the top talent from England, Scotland and Wales in the 1910s-’20s. The team’s most notable player was Archie Stark, who scored 67 goals his first season with the club in 1924-’25, a record that stood until Argentinian star Lionel Messi broke it while playing for FC Barcelona during the 2011-’12 soccer season.

Players of the original Bethlehem Steel FC played on East End field in Bethlehem, but later thanks to the Bethlehem Steel Corp., moved to a new field, now known as Moravian College’s Steel Field off Elizabeth Avenue. A bronze plaque stands at the stadium today commemorating the history of the team and its achievements.

Launched in 2014, the Lehigh Valley SoccerFest & Viewing Party has aired the matches from World Cup Brazil™, the Women’s World Cup and the Copa America Centenario over the past four years. In 2014, more than 50,000 people visited the SteelStacks campus for the festival. The following summer, 8,500 people came out to watch the U.S. Women’s national soccer team top Japan in the finals of the Women’s World Cup in Canada. This year, the festival is showing all of the World Cup Russia matches from June 14-July 15 on two large outdoor television screens on the SteelStacks campus, as well as hosting youth soccer clinics and more.

In addition to Bethlehem Steel FC, partners helping to make the free SoccerFest & Viewing Party possible include Discover Lehigh Valley, Garfield Group, Klunk & Millan Advertising, Kwik Goal, Lehigh Valley United and St. Luke’s University Health Network. For more information, visit www.lvsoccerfest.com or like www.facebook.com/LVsoccerfest.

STEP OUTDOORS FESTIVAL ADDS ARTISAN SHOW

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Outdoors-focused festival June 2-3 to feature 20 artists with ties to natural world

From handcrafted pottery featuring unique floral designs to fused glass works inspired by insects and plants, the wonders of the natural world will be on display during the new Nature-themed Artisan Show at the Step Outdoors festival June 2-3 at SteelStacks.

During the artisan show, presented by Ah-Ha! Arts Management, more than 20 artists from throughout the region will offer a diverse array of finely crafted jewelry, ceramics, handmade soaps and more. In addition, on Sunday at 2 p.m., Callie Lasch of the Institute for Therapeutic Craft & Creativity will present a free, hands-on art therapy workshop for attendees.

The artisan show, which takes place in the second-floor Fowler Blast Furnace Room of the ArtsQuest Center at SteelStacks, features a variety of craftsmen and artists, all of whom have a strong connection to or interest in nature and the natural world. Among the artisans taking part in the show are Florence Rodale of The Lavender Farmette, who organically grows and farms her own lavender and other flowers, and then distills the oils from the flowers to make organic soaps, candles, floral sachets and sprays; and Heather Skorinko of the Coplay-based Suyundalla Farms, who raises and shears her own sheep, processes the wool and then knits and weaves the fiber into sweaters, stockings, blankets and shawls.

Other artists confirmed so far include:

A Natural Alternative, Emmaus – handcrafted soaps

Autdemna Jewelers, Allentown – semi-precious stone jewelry

Cornerstone Forge, Germansvillehammered aluminum

Crazy Quilters, Emmaus – handcrafted quilts

Fire Light Glass & Design, Bethlehem – fused glass works inspired by nature

Paula Focazio Art & Design, Upper Black Eddy – wheel thrown ceramics

Pearls & Paper, New Tripoli -handmade jewelry

Iron Oaks, Mohrsville forged iron home and garden items

Dona Jones, Allentown – torched copper
Deb McGinley, Emmaus – knitted clothing and toys

Pat Sarver, Ohio – quilting and applique

On June 3, 2 p.m., Ah-Ha! presents a free art therapy workshop by Callie Lasch of the Institute for Therapeutic Craft & Creativity. Lasch will focus on the power of the creative craft to bring about both mental and physical change. As part of the presentation, she will offer a hands-on craft related to the fiber arts. All ages are welcome to attend, but younger children will need assistance from an adult or teen.

As part of the Step Outdoors show, Ah-Ha! Arts Management is also unveiling its Emerging Artist Program, which provides one new or emerging artist with free entry and booth space in each show. The emerging artist at Step Outdoors is Stephanie Spencer of Falling Leaves Studio in Fountain Hill. Spencer focuses on ceramic sculptures made for the yard and garden including toadstools, toad houses and mushrooms.

Now in its fourth year, the Step Outdoors festival includes two days of presentations, hands-on activities and educational experiences designed to encourage children and families to get outdoors, as well as learn about the many wildlife, outdoors and conservation-focused groups working in the region. More than 25 different groups are set to attend this year’s event, which features archery, fly tying, urban hikes, Your First Mud Run and a DockDogs canine diving competition.

Partners helping to support the Step Outdoors festival include Ah-Ha! Arts Management, Aqua-Duck, Eight Oaks Craft Distillers, IGS Energy, Pennsylvania Game Commission and Service Electric Cable TV & Communications. For more information on the festival, visit www.steelstacks.org/stepoutdoors.

Bethlehem Steel FC Hosting Free Children’s Soccer Clinic June 16 at SteelStacks

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Photo by Jonathan Davies

BETHLEHEM, PA—Children and youth soccer players ages 6-12 are invited to learn a variety of soccer skills and techniques at a free Soccer Clinic presented by the Bethlehem Steel FC June 16, 11:45 a.m., at the Lehigh Valley SoccerFest and Viewing Party at SteelStacks. The hands-on event, led by Bethlehem Steel FC and Philadelphia Union Academy staff and players, is open to the first 200 children who register at www.lvsoccerfest.com.

During the clinic, which is perfect for youth soccer players as well as those who are new to the sport, children will work with coaches and players to hone their soccer skills and learn new ones. The 60-minute clinic will include several stations focusing on different skills, techniques and strategies players can use successfully on the pitch.
Celebrating the excitement of the World’s Game, the Lehigh Valley SoccerFest & Viewing Party presented by Bethlehem Steel FC will feature all of the World Cup matches from Russia aired on the Levitt Pavilion and PBS39 outdoor screens on the campus. Several of the matches will also be broadcast in Spanish, including the matches taking place during the free Sabor Latin Festival at SteelStacks June 22-24.

Currently in its third season in the United Soccer League, Bethlehem Steel FC is the official USL affiliate of Philadelphia Union of Major League Soccer. Also owned and operated by Keystone Sports and Entertainment LLC, the team started its inaugural season March 25, 2016 at FC Montreal and played the home opener at Lehigh University’s Goodman Stadium on April 3, 2016. Last season, Steel FC qualified for its first USL Cup Playoff appearance.

Launched in 2014, the Lehigh Valley SoccerFest & Viewing Party has aired the matches from World Cup Brazil™, the Women’s World Cup and the Copa America Centenario over the past four years. In 2014, more than 50,000 people visited the SteelStacks campus for the festival. The following summer, 8,500 people came out to watch the U.S. Women’s national soccer team top Japan in the finals of the Women’s World Cup from Canada.

In addition to Bethlehem Steel FC, partners helping to make the free SoccerFest & Viewing Party possible include Discover Lehigh Valley, Kwik Goal, Klunk & Millan Advertising, Garfield Group and Lehigh Valley United. For more information, visit www.lvsoccerfest.com or like www.facebook.com/LVsoccerfest/.

Leading Ladies: Upcoming Performer Spotlights

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By Ben Youngerman, ArtsQuest Marketing Manager

Year-round, ArtsQuest is proud to present the work of female performers, artists, and comedians at SteelStacks, Musikfest and The Banana Factory! Here’s a look at some of the leading ladies showcasing their skills in the near future.

Banana Factory Art Classes – Year-Round – Current Classes

Throughout the year, The Banana Factory holds classes in various art forms. Teaching artists include Virginia Abbott, Deborah Slahta, Cotty Kilbanks, Elena Shakleton, Devyn Leonor Briggs, Katie Hovencamp, Marianne Knipe, Melissa Perhamus & more. These classes are a great opportunity to get creative in the Lehigh Valley.

SteelStacks Comedy Shows – Year-Round – Upcoming Shows

SteelStacks produces live comedy every Thursday, Friday and Saturday featuring the funniest female performers in the Lehigh Valley!

Free Concerts at Levitt Pavilion SteelStacks – May-September – Upcoming Shows

Levitt Pavilion SteelStacks presented by Coordinated Health presents 52 FREE concerts throughout the spring and summer! Talented female performers on the 2018 lineup include Sarah Ayers, Hannah Gil & the Hours, Sister Sparrow & the Dirty Birds and more!

Bria Skonberg – 6/6 – buy tickets

Bria Skonberg is an award-winning jazz vocalist and trumpet player from New York City. Skonberg plays as part of RiverJazz presented by Concannon Miller.

Lady Parts Justice League: Vagical Mystery Tour – 6/12 – buy tickets

Hosted by The Daily Show co-creator Lizz Winstead, Lady Parts Justice League (LPJL), the comedy- driven reproductive rights organization, brings a combination of comedy and activism to audiences across the nation.

Jenny Lewis – 6/13 – buy tickets

One of the most celebrated and respected performers of her generation, Lewis got her start as the dynamic frontwoman of influential LA group Rilo Kiley. Wearing her iconic rainbow suits, Lewis has a number of A-list fans (as seen in the music video below).

Two Laugh Minimum: LaTice – 7/5 – buy tickets

LaTice is a comedian from South Jersey who has performed on ABC’s The View, in Las Vegas for the World Series of Comedy and top clubs around the country. She headlines the July edition of Two Laugh Minimum, the Lehigh Valley’s best standup comedy showcase.

Mary Chapin Carpenter – 7/27 – buy tickets

5-time GRAMMY-winning artist Mary Chapin Carpenter brings 30 years of country and Americana hits to Bethlehem!

Joan Jett and the Blackhearts – 8/3 – buy tickets

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee Joan Jett has spent her life breaking barriers and challenging expectations. Joan Jett and the Blackhearts co-headline the Sands Steel Stage on the opening night of the 35th Musikfest!

Kesha – 8/7 – buy tickets

Kesha’s latest album Rainbow earned her first-ever GRAMMY nominations for “Best Pop Vocal Album” and “Best Pop Solo Performance”. Becoming an icon of the #MeToo movement, Kesha was named to TIME‘s list of the 100 “Most Influential People” in 2018. The pop superstar makes her triumphant return to the 35th Musikfest after headlining in 2013!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=buM8OErfvu0

Area Servicemen to be Honored During SteelStacks’ Memorial Day Celebration May 26-28

Memorial Day

“Our Hometown Heroes” display tops 1,000 images

A record 1,000 images of local veterans and active military personnel will greet guests at the annual Memorial Day Celebration presented by Embassy Bank May 26-28 at SteelStacks. As part of the “Our Hometown Heroes” display, veterans, active members of the U.S. military and their families submitted 133 photos in 2018, bringing the total number of images submitted since “Our Hometown Heroes” began in 2011 to 1,031. The weekend also includes veterans’ programs and remembrance activities, transforming SteelStacks into a living memorial honoring men and women from throughout the region who have made the ultimate sacrifice while serving our country.

“When we started ‘Our Hometown Heroes’ in 2011, we could not have envisioned the overwhelming response this project would receive,” says Embassy Bank CEO, President and Chairman Dave Lobach Jr. “When you think about the fact that there are now more than 1,000 images of veterans and active and former military personnel on the banners it’s simply incredible. ‘Our Hometown Heroes’ has been embraced by our region’s residents since day one and really highlights the respect our community has for everyone who protects and serves our great nation.”

Weekend highlights include:

Veterans Performance Reading
ArtsQuest Center, 2nd Floor Fowler Blast Furnace Room
Sat., May 26, 5:30 p.m.
The community is invited to listen to veterans and family members speak a tribute to those they have lost in observance of Memorial Day. Veteran Jenny Pacanowski of Bethlehem will curate the spoken word performance which includes a collaboration of performers from the groups Female Veterans Empowered to Transition, Warrior Writers and One Fight Foundation. The performances, which follow private writing workshops for veterans and their families, are designed to build comradery, provide strength and offer catharsis by discussing war and home front experiences through the written word.

Remember Our Heroes Luminary Display
ArtsQuest Center at SteelStacks
Sun., May 27, 7 p.m.
Join us as we remember our heroes with a luminary display in honor of family and friends who served in the United States Armed Forces. Luminaries can be purchased for $5 each, with all proceeds donated to the Lehigh Valley American Gold Star Mothers. To reserve your luminaries in advance, visit www.steelstacks.org/memorial-day.

A Time to Remember
Levitt Pavilion Stage
Mon., May 28, 5 p.m.
The Memorial Day Weekend celebration concludes with a memorial service to remember the Lehigh Valley’s fallen soldiers.

Throughout the weekend, guests can also enjoy free, live music, including headlining shows by artists performing at the Levitt Pavilion Summer Concert Series.

The complete Memorial Day Celebration performance schedule is:

Sat., May 26
3 p.m. Scott Marshall & the Hillbilly Souls | TD Community Stage
7:30 p.m. Atlanta Rhythm Section | Levitt Pavilion SteelStacks
9 p.m. The Hook | TD Community Stage

Sun., May 27
3 p.m. The Wallace Brothers | TD Community Stage
6 p.m. Zaire | TD Community Stage
7:30 p.m. Slam Allen Band | Levitt Pavilion SteelStacks
9 p.m. Tanqueray Hayward | TD Community Stage

Mon., May 28
3 p.m. National Moment of Silence | TD Community Stage
3:30 p.m. Billy Bauer Band | TD Community Stage
5:30 p.m. The SwingTime Dolls | TD Community Stage
7:30 p.m. Still Surfin’ – A Tribute to The Beach Boys | Levitt Pavilion SteelStacks

The Memorial Day Celebration presented by Embassy Bank begins at 3 p.m. each day. For more information, visit www.steelstacks.org.

Staff Music Picks: May 2018

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None of the ArtsQuest staff would work here if they didn’t live for music and the arts. To share our passion, our programming and social media teams put together a list of new-ish songs they’ve got on repeat this month. We hope you’ll enjoy our eclectic mix of musical tastes and discover some great new tunes!

Ben “The Resident Metalhead” Youngerman
Marketing Manager

“Rats” – Ghost

Ghost’s hard-rocking plague is spreading. The lead single from the Swedish band’s fourth full-length album Prequelle features “new” frontman Cardinal Copia (it’s the same singer, with a new character at the helm) and the Nameless Ghouls welcoming the return of the Black Death. Combining award-winning musicality (GRAMMY winners in 2016) with unique theatrics and storytelling, Ghost’s small cult following has grown into festival headlining gigs and a pair of scheduled arena shows. “Rats” is the anthem that brings them into a new era. Hail Ghost! \m/ (*>*) \m/

Amber “Genre Trainwreck” Galdamez
Communications Coordinator

“OTW” – Khalid feat. 6LACK, Ty Dolla $ign

This recently released track from Khalid became an instant favorite of mine as soon as I heard it. OTW (an acronym for “on the way” if you were wondering…) is lyrically very modern but musically takes notes from 90s R&B. In fact, the instrumental version of this song could have easily played during the credits scene of any semi-serious Disney movie from the 90s and nine-year-old Amber would have been highly impressed. Khalid’s voice complements the track flawlessly while the features from 6LACK and Ty Dolla $ign add some nice variation and depth.

Cory “Don’t Put Me In A Genre Box” Stelzman
Performing Arts Coordinator

“Lift Yourself” – Kanye West

The man that needs no introduction – Mr. West himself – released a single last week on his website entitled “Lift Yourself.” I love it. I can’t get enough of it. People love to hate Kanye and I am just over hear counting the minutes until the new album gets released in June. The single is the perfect combination of absurd and fun which is exactly what I’m looking for as we finally get into warmer weather. ENJOY. #kanyeforever

Emily “The Funk Junkie” Cummins
Public Relations Coordinator

“Heat Wave” – Snail Mail

I just got turned on to Snail Mail, singer-guitarist Lindsey Jordan, who’s sound is simultaneously dreamy and irreverent. In “Heat Wave,” the latest track off her upcoming album Lush, Jordan delivers devastating lyrics like “And I hope whoever it is holds their breath around you, cause’ I know I did” all in an ethereal haze that captures the feel of a sad, suburban summer. It reminds me of the bright and cheery melodies of Laura Stevenson and Waxahatchee that are expertly fused with bleak words. I can’t wait to hear what she comes out with next.

Patrick “P. Diddy” Brogan
Chief Programming Officer

“Hit or Miss” – CERAMIC ANIMAL

My boys are back with a new single and this could well be their strongest yet. It opens with a spacey little ditty and then enters Warren Regan’s growling Alex Turner-like vocals. It is a great indie rock song with hints of country and almost constant synth from Elliot Regan which gives it a retro rock feel. I’ve long been a fan of these guys original music and if “Hit or Miss” is any indication we can look forward to even better stuff yet to come.

Matt “Hip-Hop & R&B Boy” Gotzon
Partnership Activation Specialist

“The Cut Off” – J. Cole ft. kiLL edward

J. Cole gave us his new album KOD, which is another thought provoking project from the Dreamville leader. It instantly broke the first day streaming record on Spotify (36.5 million), but was dethroned about a week later once Post Malone released Beerbongs & Bentleys (48 million). The most controversial track being “1985,” were some seem to think Cole disses new age/mumble rapper Lil Pump. To me it seems more of a song giving guidance and advice rather than hate. Cole is set to go platinum without any features yet again, if he hasn’t already. The album debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200 and doesn’t seem to be slowing down. If you want to see him perform these songs live you’re in luck as Cole just announced a Dreamville Music Festival in Raleigh, North Carolina Sept. 15. My favorite track right now is “The Cut Off,” but I’m sure will be constantly changing as I continue listening. If you haven’t taken the time to hear this album, please do, and make sure to do so in its entirety. Another classic from Cole that you need to get into your rotation.

Helen “New Wave” Smith
Talent Buyer

“Go Out Fighting” – Dr. Dog

Dr. Dog just released their first fresh work in almost five years, Critical Equation. I love all of Dr. Dog’s albums and this one is no different. My favorite song is most definitely “Go Out Fighting” – it shows their renewed confidence and fresh direction after taking a couple of years off. The driving vintage Hammond organ is ever present, pushing the tune forward. These dudes have been together for almost two decades now and don’t show any signs of stopping.

Kimberly “The Wild Card” Koehler
Partnership Activation Specialist

“Wasted Times” – The Weeknd

If you were wondering why my music nickname is “the wild card”, this month’s pick is great example. Just when you thought you could narrow down my taste in music, a pick like this throws you off. I knew my extreme love for The Weeknd and his music would eventually be shown in our Monthly Music Picks but I wasn’t sure when it come out. My Dear Melancholy dropped in late March and I am pretty sure I’ve listened to it every day since. This EP has 6 phenomenal tracks that focus on Abel’s recent heartbreak & anger related to breakups. “Wasted Times” not only showcases The Weeknd’s great vocals but him as an amazing lyricist. This “darker” song reminds me of why I love The Weeknd’s music in the first place. I wish I could pick the whole album, so be sure to check out not only “Wasted Times” but the rest of My Dear Melancholy!

Alicia “Better in Boots” Rohrbach
Senior Marketing & Sponsorship Coordinator

“Friends Don’t” – Maddie and Tae

There was a lot of new music that came out this month that I was a fan of – so this month was a hard choice! Maddie and Tae just released a new single a few days ago that started playing on a Spotify playlist I listen to frequently – and it’s quickly become one of my go to tunes. It’s a little more of a mellow tune to listen to at work – and the lyrics and their harmonies work together perfectly. I’m glad this female duo is releasing new music in 2018 as they are one of my favorites and I can’t wait to hear more from them!

Ryan “Comedian Who Likes Music” Hill
Programming Director

“I Still See It” – POP ETC

I usually like POP ETC best when they’re full-on with their 80s-tinged hooks (“Bad Break”, “Keep It for Your Own”, “Running in Circles”), but this track is just the right amount of laid back for me to imagine blasting it with the windows down and the sun on the horizon. It’s a big step up from the group’s other single released this year (“Losing Yourself”).

Anne “The Alternative Solution” Sturm
Senior Talent Buyer

“Hide” – Rainbow Kitten Surprise

“Hide” is from Rainbow Kitten Surprise’s newest album How to: Friend, Love, Freefall. This song is quirky, addictive, charming, and headstrong all in one. Rainbow Kitten Surprise, based out of North Carolina, is currently on a very busy tour performing to many sold out venues.

BONUS PLAYLIST!

Previous ArtsQuest Staff Music Picks:

April 2018
March 2018
Top Songs of 2017
Top Songs of 2016
Top Songs of 2015

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