Dear Friends,
As a member of the PA House Tourism, Economic & Recreational Development Committee, I recently attended a Lehigh Valley Tourism Trip: Discovering Bethlehem, Easton, and Allentown.
While on the committee, we look at legislation that impacts development throughout the commonwealth through the lens of tourism, recreation, and heritage conservation. Occasionally we tour and see first-hand the delights of what our state has to offer, providing insight on how tourism impacts economic development and therefore how we can best support endeavors to promote and entice folks to participate in exploring our beautiful state.
On the first day in Lehigh Valley, we had an amazing time touring Bethlehem. Our journey started with a walking tour of the Colonial Arts Quarter, guided by members of Historic Bethlehem Museums & Sites/United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (HBMS/UNESCO). This area is a treasure trove of beautifully preserved colonial architecture that offers a glimpse into Bethlehem’s rich past. Recently, Bethlehem's Moravian Church Settlements were inscribed on the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage List, recognizing their outstanding universal value and historical significance. The Colonial Arts Quarter is part of this historic district, showcasing the city's deep roots in Moravian culture and history.
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Our next stop was the Zoellner Arts Center, where we immersed ourselves in the vibrant local arts scene. The center, located on the campus of Lehigh University, is a state-of-the-art facility that hosts a wide array of performances, including theater, dance, music, and visual arts. ???? Designed to foster creativity and cultural engagement, Zoellner Arts Center features world-class acoustics, stunning architecture, and a welcoming environment for both artists and audiences. It's a cultural gem in Bethlehem, bringing together students, faculty, and the broader community to celebrate the arts.
We then delved into the fascinating industrial heritage at the National Museum of Industrial History. ???? This museum is in a former Bethlehem Steel facility and is affiliated with the Smithsonian Institution. It showcases the nation's industrial achievements and innovations, highlighting key developments in manufacturing, mining, and transportation. Visitors can explore a variety of exhibits, including rare machinery, artifacts, and interactive displays that tell the story of America's industrial revolution and its impact on society. The museum also features special events and educational programs that bring history to life in engaging ways.
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The committee was then taken across the street for a walking tour through the ArtsQuest campus, passing the charming Christkindlmarkt and the iconic Hoover-Mason Trestle. ArtsQuest is a thriving community that hosts numerous arts and cultural events throughout the year. ????
Christkindlmarkt is a festive holiday market inspired by traditional German Christmas markets, featuring handcrafted gifts, delicious food, and festive entertainment. The Hoover-Mason Trestle, an elevated walkway, offers stunning views of the historic Bethlehem Steel plant and serves as a testament to the city's industrial heritage. ArtsQuest also includes the Banana Factory, a community arts center that provides space for artists and hosts art classes, exhibitions, and public events. ??
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The evening concluded with a delightful reception at SteelStacks, mingling with arts community members. SteelStacks is a dynamic venue that blends arts, culture and entertainment all set against the backdrop of the historic Bethlehem Steel plant. This iconic location features several performance spaces, including the Levitt Pavilion and the Musikfest Café, which host concerts, film screenings, and community events throughout the year. The towering blast furnaces of the former steel plant provide a unique and dramatic setting for these activities, making SteelStacks a cultural and entertainment cornerstone of Bethlehem.
On day two, we had an amazing day touring Easton with the tourism committee! From the historic Delaware and Lehigh National Heritage Corridor to the fascinating National Canal Museum, we delved into the rich history of the region. ??? Did you know the Delaware and Lehigh National Heritage Corridor spans 165 miles and connects five counties? The National Canal Museum offers a unique glimpse into America’s canal era with interactive exhibits and a ride on an authentic canal boat. ??
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Our journey continued with a delightful tour of the Sigal Museum, home to incredible exhibits on the history and culture of Northampton County. We were warmly welcomed and were given the chance to view their extensive collection of artifacts and art. ??? In the afternoon, we explored the vibrant Easton Public Market, a community-driven marketplace filled with local vendors offering delicious foods and unique products. ???? The market is a hub for local flavors and crafts, making it a must-visit spot for anyone in the area.
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We also had a blast at the Crayola Experience! ??? This colorful attraction is perfect for families, with tons of hands-on activities that bring your imagination to life. From creating your own crayon label to exploring the vibrant Crayola Store, it’s a world of creativity and fun. ???
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Our historical adventure continued with a visit to the 1753 Bachmann Publick House, Easton's oldest building and a colonial-era tavern that once hosted George Washington. ??
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Before the day concluded, we immersed ourselves in the arts at Lafayette College’s Williams Arts Campus, where students and faculty showcased their incredible talents in various artistic disciplines. ?????
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Although I had to leave our third day of the tourism committee trip to Lehigh Valley due to in-district obligations and missed out on much of the tour of Allentown, I was still able to enjoy a fantastic tour of Coca-Cola Park, home of the Lehigh Valley IronPigs. The ballpark is an iconic venue that offers an exciting and family-friendly atmosphere, making it a must-visit for any baseball fan. ? I also had the privilege of joining a panel discussion with the Lehigh Valley 250 team. This engaging session highlighted the region’s rich history and the incredible efforts being made to celebrate its 250th anniversary. The insights shared by the panelists were truly inspiring and underscored the importance of preserving and promoting our local heritage. ???
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While I couldn't participate in the full tour of Allentown, these experiences made my day unforgettable and further deepened my appreciation for the Lehigh Valley. I'm already looking forward to returning to Allentown to explore all that this vibrant city has to offer, from its rich history and cultural landmarks to its bustling downtown and beautiful parks. ?????
I share with you my experiences exploring these special locations and events because we invite everyone to visit the Lehigh Valley and experience the unique blend of history, art, and culture that Bethlehem, Easton and Allentown have to offer. Whether you're a history buff, an arts enthusiast or just looking for a great place to spend the day, the Lehigh Valley has something for everyone. Let's continue to discover and celebrate the incredible diversity and heritage of this remarkable region! ??
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???? You're invited to our Winter Holiday Open House! ????
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Come on over and get to know me and my team at our festive gathering! We'll have light refreshments and a whole lot of holiday cheer. It's the perfect chance to see our cozy office and connect with us in person. See you there! ?????
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Annual Dog Licensing Event
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Calling all dog owners in the 151st! Join us for a pawsitively awesome Dog Licensing Event! ?? It's the perfect chance to make sure your furry friend is properly licensed and legal. Just bring your pup and any necessary documents, and we’ll take care of the rest.
Here’s the scoop on dog licenses in Montgomery County, PA:
Who needs it? All dogs three months and older.
Why get it? It's the law! Plus, it helps in identifying your pooch if they ever get lost.
How long does it last? You can choose between an annual or lifetime license.
What to bring? Proof of your dog’s rabies vaccination and, if applicable, proof of spaying/neutering.
Costs Involved?
Annual fee: $8.70
Senior citizen or person with disability annual fee: $6.70
Lifetime fee: $52.70
Senior citizen or person with disability annual fee: $36.70
Don't miss out — let’s make it a barking great time! ???
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Pennsylvania State Capitol
28-A East Wing
Harrisburg, PA 17120
(717) 772-1999
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District Office
605 Horsham Rd.
Horsham, PA 19044
(267) 282-6695
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