Bethlehem News

Mayor J. William Reynolds says turning the lights on at SteelStacks' blast furnaces would be costly for land owner Wind Creek, running up to as much as $1 million. But one city councilman says they need to be illuminated by the time Musikfest begins.

For years, both Bethlehem and Redevelopment Authority have claimed ownership of the Hotel Bethlehem parking area and exit lane, respectively, while the hotel has used both for business purposes for over two decades.

Fire Chief Rick Delmore said the department is “severely lacking” personnel, mostly during the daytime hours. It serves Hellertown and neighboring Lower Saucon Township, providing a volunteer-based fire force with paid EMS services.

The hearing later this month in Bethlehem is the first step in the 5-year license renewal for Wind Creek Bethlehem. The initial public hearing by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board had been set for June 26 but had to be postponed because of severe storms and power outages.

The Lehigh Valley IronPigs rolled out their Bethlehem City Connect merchandise Monday with a jersey, hat, and other offerings that take inspiration from the Bethlehem Star, along with nods to the history of Bethlehem Steel.

Zero tolerance on fireworks: “If we just kind of let people light things off, someone's going to get hurt or killed," Bethlehem Police Chief Michelle Kott said.

Freedom High School grad Lilly Moss, 19, is making her way up the music and video streaming platforms with debut album title track, "Meet Me on Broadway"

A Mars-themed event at Bethlehem Area Public Library will focus on NASA rovers Curiosity and Perseverance. Registration is encouraged.

Celtic Classic is scheduled Sept. 27-29 on the festival grounds near downtown Bethlehem.

The blast furnaces that have become a symbol of Bethlehem's revitalization haven't been illuminated at night for weeks. With thousands set to descend on SteelStacks soon for the Fourth of July and Musikfest, the reasons why remain a mystery.

The free performance will take place starting at 5 p.m. Saturday, June 29 at the Rose Garden.

Teamsters Local 773 approved a new contract that awarded employees raises, more sick days and better contributions toward their health care costs, said union President Dennis Hower.