Good morning, Allentown.

Salvation Army Allentown Corps is hosting its annual backpack giveaway and community street fair today in Allentown—organizers made last minute preparations to set up the events.

Nancy Hartman celebrated her 80th birthday and welcomed her two former exchange students from Northwestern Lehigh who once lived with her and her late husband Bill.

The guests—Olya Chebykina Huntley and Pablo Garcia—recalled their time in New Tripoli and shared memories and career updates around her kitchen table.

Lehigh Valley brothers Julian and Jimmy Dawood launched DaWoodWorks, a free online platform that connects homeowners and property managers with licensed contractors in the region.

Homeowners post a photo of their repair need and then review offers from contractors who earn a commission only upon completing a job—ensuring both parties have clear financial terms.

Rubiel Perez, 31, of Allentown, was sentenced Thursday by Judge Jeffrey L.

Schmehl to 15 years in prison + five years of supervised release after he robbed 7-Eleven stores in March 2023.

An Allentown police officer was arrested for assault after he struck a surrendering man with the muzzle of his gun during a chase on July 23 on North 11th Street—he faces felony aggravated assault charges and was released on $25,000 bail pending a hearing on Aug 26.

East Penn School District welcomed new teachers on Aug 14 during an orientation held on the steps of the administration building — an annual photo event that marks the start of their school year.

The Allentown School District Board approved measures on Thursday to move forward with a new K-8 school project on the former Allentown State Hospital site.

The plan includes a 195,000-square-foot facility for about 1,200 students with libraries, multipurpose rooms, and green spaces—set to be completed in 2027 with financing from bonds issued since December 2024 and additional bond proceeds.

On Aug. 13, the Lehigh County Board of Commissioners discussed the state budget impasse that halted reimbursements for key services and warned that the county’s stabilization fund—at $25 million—may only cover expenses for a few more months.

The board also approved up to $92,000 from the opioid settlement fund to finance a new rehabilitation facility for women and children in Allentown.

2025 Great Allentown Fair Admission

11:59 p.m. — The Allentown Fairgrounds — Admission fee required — Experience a week of classic fair fun with agricultural exhibits, live entertainment, and delicious food.

Diabetes Prevention Program

2 PM — Cumberland Gardens — Free entry — Participate in a meaningful health and wellness program to help prevent diabetes.

Great Allentown Fair

6:00-8:30 p.m. — The Allentown Fairgrounds — Check event page for cost — Celebrate local culture and enjoy live entertainment.

Ace Frehley Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — The Allentown Fairgrounds — Ticket prices vary — Experience the legendary Ace Frehley live in concert at a vibrant venue.

Foods of India 2025

11 AM – 3 PM — Delta Hotels by Marriott Allentown Lehigh Valley — Free entry — A culinary celebration highlighting the diverse flavors of India brings the community together.

Trexler Nature Preserve Hike – Border Trail

9 AM – 3 PM — Trexler Environmental Center — Free entry — Explore the beauty of nature on a scenic 10+ mile hike with the Allentown Hiking Club.

NFL Football Trivia Night

7:30 p.m. — Dave & Buster's Lehigh — No cover — Show off your NFL knowledge in an evening of exciting trivia.

8th Annual LVASCE EPIC Golf Outing

8 AM – 3 PM — The Club at Twin Lakes — Sponsorships available — Enjoy a day of golf while supporting scholarships for local engineering students.

International Culture Festival 2025

2-10 p.m. — Cedar Beach Park — Free entry — Experience a vibrant celebration of diverse cultures with performances, cuisines, and art displays.