Good morning, Allentown.

Allentown hosts two events this week: the West Rotary Club’s Flags for Unity Event at Parkland High School from May 21 to 25 with over 500 American flags and daily taps + Cedar Crest College’s Mayfair Festival of the Arts from May 22 to 24.

Upper Lehigh Lions Club will host a chicken barbecue at the Schnecksville Fire Company pavilion from noon to 6 p.m. on May 30—tickets are available by calling Keith at 610-297-6937 and the menu includes half a chicken, baked potato, pickled cabbage and a roll, plus a bake sale.

Jerry Christian, a beloved basketball mentor at the Cumberland Gardens Community Center, was to have Hickory Street renamed in his honor as Jerry Christian Way today—however, inclement weather postponed the ceremony and local supporters continue fundraising to support his legacy.

A new ice cream shop, Crow’s Nest Creamery, will open this summer at 5130 Chestnut St in Upper Milford Township, replacing TG Countryside, which closed last September.

The locally owned shop offers ice cream, breakfast items, and coffee — and plans to partner with other local businesses.

The 23rd Annual Parkland Festival of the Arts celebrated student creativity at Parkland High School with music, visual arts, theater, dance, and hands-on activities.

The three-day event ran from May 14 to May 16 (showcasing community and student art) and offered live performances and art exhibits.

At ACCHS, the theater department earned Freddy nominations for its spring musical (Disney's Frozen) with standout performances by Briana Bauer and Ella Mackey.

In a busy May, students enjoyed a side-by-side music day, a boys lacrosse win, and prom while upcoming events include a volleyball clinic and freshmen movie night.

Allentown Parks and Rec in partnership with Allentown Parknership and River Crossing YMCA will offer free swim lessons to over 300 children aged 7–15 in the Summer Playground Program.

The 8-week program runs from June 30 — July 10 and is designed to promote water safety.

A student at Fogelsville Elementary School named her van driver as the community’s most important person after he kept her safe during daily trips.

Parkland School District provides regular buses and special transports — including for special needs students.

Parkland School District Superintendent Dr. Mark Madson reviewed the Atlas Data Center proposal at a May 12 workshop session.

Concerns over noise, environmental hazards, and safety near Parkland High School were raised while officials said they will continue monitoring the project with township leaders.

The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources announced that in May, Pennsylvanians can remove up to three invasive plants and replace them with native species, including a Lehigh County event (May 30, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m.) that aims to protect natural habitats and support wildlife.

Old Zionsville UCC will host nine weekly free grief care sessions starting June 3 at its air-conditioned lower social hall at 5981 Fountain Road where sessions run 6-8 p.m. until July 29; registration is available by contacting Rev.

Lori Esslinger at [email protected] or 610-966-3601.

A local resident used free LANTA bus rides to journey from Allentown to Bethlehem for an outdoor arts and crafts show while avoiding costly parking fees, offering a budget-friendly way to enjoy summer events (ideas include walking, biking and free concerts).

Local families in the Lehigh Valley are choosing to enjoy a staycation this Memorial Day weekend amid high gas prices & a rainy forecast, with some planning local outings and others opting to relax at home.

The Lehigh Valley Spirits — a new arena soccer team honoring the Phantoms — was unveiled by co-owner Rob Brooks at Chickie's and Pete's inside the PPL Center complex.

The team will hold its first expansion draft on Tuesday and plans to launch its inaugural MASL season on Dec. 5.

Ringling Bros. B&B Circus

12-3 p.m. — PPL Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience a thrilling celebration of jaw-dropping acts at the iconic circus event.

Miles Minnick Concert

7-10 p.m. — Archer Music Hall — Ticket prices vary — Experience the innovative sounds of Miles Minnick and connect with the Glo Nation community.

Freddie Gibbs Concert

7:00 – 8:30 p.m. — Archer Music Hall — Ticketed event — Experience an electrifying performance by Freddie Gibbs in Allentown.

The Beach Boys Concert

5:30-8:30 p.m. — The Univest Performance Center — Ticket prices may vary — Celebrate over 50 years of surf rock with America's legendary band.

Journey Concert

7-9 p.m. — PPL Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience the iconic sound of Journey live in Allentown as they perform their timeless hits.

Mosaic Lamp Workshop

11:00 AM – 1:30 PM — Respect Graduate School — Includes materials and refreshments — Create a stunning Turkish mosaic lamp in a fun and relaxed atmosphere.