Good morning, Allentown.

For Your Amusement will remove 300 skill games from venues like the Salisbury Fire Hall and Safety First social club hours before they become illegal per Pennsylvania ruling.

Nonprofits such as Safety First—which donates over $6,000 annually—warn the change will hurt charity work, according to leaders.

Every DOG! pet supply store will open this weekend at Promenade Saucon Valley during Barktoberfest.

The 3,400 sqft shop is set between Claire’s and American Eagle (offering locally owned pet-friendly products) and is expected to draw pet owners to the community.

Oktoberfest 2026 kicked off at SteelStacks on Oct.

2 with food, beverages, music, dancing, games, and wiener dog races; ArtsQuest (the presenter) hosts the event over two weekends in beautiful autumn weather that drew thousands.

Bethlehem Area School District has not resolved its transportation contract talks with Teamsters Local 773 after the union rejected a new proposal, and service continues for over 10,000 students.

The board will discuss next steps at its Oct. 19 meeting — no bus service interruptions have been announced.

The Allentown Planning Commission met Tuesday, Oct.

13 to review Quantm Group LLC's proposal for an 80-megawatt data center at a vacant warehouse on Emaus Avenue — developers proposed erecting sound-blocking walls and an electrical substation for power. A nearby daycare urged leaders to balance growth with community needs.

Tuesday afternoon, the Allentown Planning Commission approved an amended plan for an 80-megawatt data center at 2401 Emaus Ave by converting a 224,000 sqft warehouse; the plan includes a substation, sound walls, and strict conditions for noise and fuel storage and now moves to City Council amid community concerns.

Although Fire Prevention Week ended last week, the American Red Cross of Greater Pennsylvania is urging residents to update home escape plans and test smoke alarms—key steps to protect families from fire risks.

The guidance also recommends practicing two exits per room and safely managing kitchen activities.

Today, Michael Wittkopp from Lehigh Valley Chimney advised residents to check their chimneys and carbon monoxide detectors before turning up the heat.

The company’s program features Fluey Louie to educate locals on preventing damage + gas buildup.

The Lehigh Valley Commercial and Industrial Real Estate Foundation will host its 33rd Annual Awards Breakfast at ArtsQuest Center at SteelStacks in Bethlehem on Oct.

23. The event will honor Don Cunningham as 2026 Individual of the Year and Marcon Properties' Allentown Panel Shop as Project of the Year — proceeds will benefit local neonatal intensive care units.

Larken Associates’ Trailside Village in Forks Township is 25% leased, with Phase I nearly 70% occupied since May and Phase II starting on Aug.

15. The first mixed-use building will begin occupancy Oct. 15 (and a garden apartment will open Dec. 7) to serve homes plus retail and office space.