Good morning, Allentown.

Local historical groups gathered at Guth’s Farm near Covered Bridge Park to mark the 250th anniversary of the Lehigh Valley’s vote for independence on May 27, 1776 — an event organized after a history expo revealed no formal celebration was planned.

On May 29, Wildlands Conservancy hosted a hike and sketch event at Black River Sanctuary where local artists and enthusiasts explored nature and learned drawing techniques — a session organized in partnership with JuxtaHub Arts and Innovation Center.

The event offered participants a chance to enjoy the woods' natural beauty.

At a June 4 meeting, Upper Macungie supervisors approved preliminary plans for Project Kennedy—a nearly 800,000-sqft Eli Lilly pharmaceutical campus on 150 acres—and reviewed updates on mixed-use projects; Supervisor Julien Godbarge announced his resignation, with officials outlining the process to fill his seat.

Parkland Community Library in South Whitehall is hosting its Unearth a Story Summer Reading Club today (10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.) where children, teens, and adults can register via the Beanstack app or at the kickoff party to celebrate reading.

Parkland High School held its commencement on June 3 at PPL Center in Allentown — 799 seniors celebrated as speeches and musical performances marked the occasion.

President Angelina Zaiter passed the class key to the incoming Class of 2027, symbolizing new beginnings.

Dr. Mark Madson, superintendent of Parkland School District, held a Coffee with the Superintendent session on May 8 at Hometown Diner in Breinigsville (a relaxed meeting for residents to ask about school plans and taxes).

At a May 28 board meeting, Salisbury Township officials considered a forest management plan that could yield between $1.3–$1.8 million for sustainable timber practices while evaluating lands near Walking Purchase Park and South Pike Avenue — they also approved resolutions on police retirement, contract bids, and policy updates.

Former mayor Ed Pawlowski will be released on June 25 & move into a Philadelphia halfway house while longtime friend Alan Jennings works to secure him a local leadership job, with suggestions including a return to City Hall as he plans to serve his community.

The coroner advises parents to follow safe sleep guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics to reduce SIDS and suffocation risks.

Parents should place newborns in a crib or bassinet with a firm, flat mattress and no soft bedding (pillows, blankets, or stuffed animals).

The Valley Preferred Cycling Center launched its 50th season on May 29 with Friday Nights Under the Lights in Trexlertown, featuring a Pro/Am Women’s race, speeches from community leaders (including state and local officials), and the Mike Budjnoski Fireworks Spectacular to honor decades of cycling tradition.

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.

Luke Bryan Concert

7:00 – 8:30 PM — PPL Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience the captivating sounds of country music star Luke Bryan live.

Monster Truck Show

1-3:50 p.m. — The Allentown Fairgrounds — Tickets $28.50 — Experience thrilling monster truck action with top drivers competing for glory.

Seth Witcher Acoustic Performance at Artillery Brewing

1-5 p.m. — Cedar Beach Park — Free entry — Enjoy a dynamic acoustic set from local artist Seth Witcher in a family-friendly atmosphere.