Good morning, Allentown.

Yesterday at DeSales University, the 20th Annual Celebration Awards recognized 12 local residents for overcoming barriers related to developmental and intellectual disabilities.

Jackie Andrews said the winners (nominated by peers) demonstrated community strength and resilience.

The annual United Way shopping spree was held at Redner’s in Wyomissing to benefit Safe Berks — local shoppers supported efforts to boost community safety.

Today, officials held the groundbreaking ceremony for a new basketball court at Bethany Children's Home in Heidelberg Township.

The court is part of the first phase of outdoor recreation upgrades and will give kids a new place to play and socialize.

Meals on Wheels of the Greater Lehigh Valley received a $15K grant today from the Trusted Response Fund to launch the Nourishing Neighbors program with Valley Health Partners, which will deliver immediate nutritional support to food-insecure residents in Bethlehem.

Cigar Page held a groundbreaking in Bethlehem for a 58,545 sqft facility at 1010 Harvard Avenue that will house the world’s largest cigar store along with a retail, full-service bar & lounge and office space, with construction starting in early February and an opening set for early 2027.

Ben Franklin Technology Partners approved nearly $1.92 million in third-quarter investments to help 11 companies grow and innovate in the region (including early-stage tech startups and established manufacturers in Lehigh and Northampton counties).

Grill Life Barbecue will move from its current spot near a Sunoco gas station to 3524 Route 309 in Orefield on May 3-4 and reopen on May 5.

The food trailer, known for its slow-smoked ribs, brisket and homemade sides, will offer more parking, picnic tables and shade for local fans.

On March 19, Catasauqua Middle School's Good Vibe Tribe Club spread positivity by posting encouraging messages along a hallway.

Students took a note to help keep them happy + motivated for the day.

Thirty middle school teams from across Eastern Pennsylvania competed in the 'What’s So Cool About Manufacturing?' contest Wednesday night at Stabler Arena, where Saucon Valley Middle School took the top prize and four teams advanced to state finals (organized by the Manufacturers Resource Center).

On March 20, Congressman Ryan Mackenzie announced that Catasauqua will receive $3,683,000 in federal funds to revitalize the Iron Works project on Front Street.

The plan will add new housing and commercial spaces, with phase one construction set to begin in spring 2027.

The Pennsylvania House passed a bill today to raise the minimum wage from $7.25 to $15, and Governor Shapiro urged the Senate to act so that working families can better meet rising living costs.

Allentown Redevelopment Authority is seeking proposals from developers for two key properties (725 N.

10th Street, once home to a toy factory, and 540 W. Hamilton Street downtown) that include plans for affordable housing, with submissions closing on Apr. 1.

Coca-Cola Park has been named Best Minor League Ball Park in USA Today’s Reader Choice Awards, and IronPigs President Kurt Landes thanked employees, partners, and guests for their support; the park in Allentown continues to lead MiLB in attendance with record averages.

Lehigh Valley Phantoms vs. Springfield Thunderbirds

7:05-8:05 p.m. — PPL Center — Ticket prices vary — Watch the thrilling showdown between the Phantoms and Thunderbirds in an exciting ice hockey match.

Tigers Jaw Concert

7-10 p.m. — Archer Music Hall — $52-$53 — Catch Tigers Jaw live in concert with last-minute tickets available.

Music Monday at Allentown Library

10-11 a.m. — Allentown Public Library — Free entry — Bring your littles for a fun music session in the Children’s Department.

Wilkes-Barre Scranton Penguins at Lehigh Valley Phantoms

7:05-8:05 p.m. — PPL Center — Ticket prices vary — Watch the exciting matchup between local hockey teams in the heart of Allentown.

StamperCon Allentown

10 a.m.-5 p.m. Fri, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sat — The Allentown Fairgrounds — $6.00 — Celebrate creativity in crafting at this vibrant convention.

Bridgeport Islanders vs. Lehigh Valley Phantoms

7:05-9:05 p.m. — PPL Center — Ticketed event — Exciting AHL action as the Islanders take on the Phantoms at home.

Dashboard Confessional Concert

7-9 p.m. — Archer Music Hall — Tickets available — Experience the heartfelt melodies from Dashboard Confessional's latest album 'All The Truth That I Can Tell'.

Last Thursday Band Concert

7:30 p.m. — Miller Symphony Hall — Check ticket prices for a night of unforgettable music with Last Thursday Band.

Earth Day in the Park

12-6 p.m. — Cedar Beach Park — Family-friendly fun — Celebrate the environment with activities, food, and vendor tables.