An Allentown nonprofit made its first big splash in the affordable housing space. Another of its project to convert a former church into apartments is underway.
Also in today's newsletter ...
🎥 Hispanic leaders talk about their vision for the community's growing Lehigh Valley presence
🦙 Our newest show features a furry friend who teaches youngsters Spanish
Ripple Community Inc. has long subsidized rents for some of clients. Now, the nonprofit is the owner of a half-dozen apartments at 814 W. Gordon St.
Residents and local officials mingled before touring the newly opened property, where the average rent is $525. Ripple is continuing its work to convert a former Chew Street church into “deeply affordable” units.
Jason Addy has more on similar efforts in Allentown➔
'I think I have the solution'
Our latest documentary "Echoes of Cultura" premiered Friday evening. Host Sara Viteri sat down with several local leaders of the Latino community to talk about its growing presence in the Lehigh Valley and what they hope lies in store.
One of those guests was Magisterial District Judge Linda Vega Sirop, the daughter of a Puerto Rican native who moved stateside for the opportunity for a better life. Her goal is to see the the booming Hispanic population take a more prominent role in shaping the Lehigh Valley's future.
"I'd like to see us take more of an accountability for the responsibilities that we have. It's our responsibility to carry our neighborhood," Vega Sirop said. "It's our responsibility to carry culture and tradition and keep that going. It's our responsibility to look at an issue and say, 'I think I have the solution. Here's how I think I can resolve it.'"
Watch the full program and follow-up discussion here➔
More from LVPM
🦙 ¡Hola, Benji!, the new bilingual series from LVPM and the Spanish Immersion Learning Center, made its debut yesterday. The program introduces young learners to Spanish through songs, stories and playful adventures with Benji the Llama.
Check out Benji at 2 p.m. on PBS39 or anytime on PBS39 Passport!
From Around the Valley:
The Bethlehem Area School District is seeking public input as it undergoes its first restructuring in decades. Community members can complete the survey in English or Spanish. (Bethlehem Area School District)
An iconic Bethlehem church is auctioning off its supplies this month ahead of some major projects. (The Morning Call)
A nearly $700,000-grant from the National Parks Service will help preserve one of the oldest structures in the Lehigh Valley. (WFMZ)
What's happening today?
Pay tribute to the late Dolly Parton by catching a showing of the 1980 classic 9 to 5 at 7 p.m. at the Emmaus Theatre. ($10 for adults, $8 for seniors)
Show off your big brain at the Nazareth Brewing Co.'s weekly trivia night starting at 7 p.m. (Free to play)
Help control the pet population at the Lehigh Valley Humane Society's Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Release program between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. ($45 per cat. Attendees must request an appointment through the website.)
Cheer on the Moravian University Women's Volleyball team as they take on Fairleigh Dickenson University – Florham at 6 p.m. at Johnston Hall (No ticket prices listed, watch online through a paid subscription)
Let your budding students practice their reading with some adorable pups at the Parkland Community Library beginning at 6:30 p.m. (Free to attend)
Looking for local events? Check out our calendar for a comprehensive list of in-person and virtual events. Or add your own!
Contact Us
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