Good morning, Allentown.

Upper Macungie Township officials celebrated a timber topping-off last week for the new 188,000-square-foot Community Lifestyle Center.

The center will feature major sports facilities, an indoor turf field, and meeting areas – and it will open next summer.

The National Federation of Independent Business asks Allentown shoppers to support local small businesses this Small Business Saturday, set for November 29, and to shop locally throughout the holiday season.

The group noted a recent report showing a 13% drop in small business ownership and higher overall sales over the past three months—details that call for local aid.

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission announced that starting December 1, electric bills for PPL, Met-Ed and PECO customers will rise as rates adjust to match wholesale prices.

PPL Electric’s residential rate will climb nearly 4%—raising a typical bill by about $4.63 per month while Met-Ed and PECO also increase rates and small business charges vary.

Allentown School District broke ground on the new Allentown K-8 Academy at Northridge at 1600 Hanover Avenue on the east side, using the site of the former Allentown State Hospital.

The two-story building will serve 1,200 students and include a dance studio, culinary facility, and multi-purpose center—doors will open in 2027.

The Allentown Parking Authority announced free parking will be offered on Saturdays during the holiday season at two downtown decks—Community Deck at 13 South Sixth Street and 940 Deck at 940 West Hamilton Street—if Transient tickets pulled after 8 a.m. are scanned before 4 p.m. on November 29, December 6, December 13, and December 20.

Allentown and Blue Zones Project-Allentown launched a six-week media campaign yesterday at City Hall to warn residents not to drive after drinking during the holiday season.

Mayor Matt Tuerk and Police Chief Charles Roca stressed that buzzed driving is drunk driving—residents are urged to plan safe rides—to keep holiday gatherings safe.

The Farmers Market Nutrition Program—providing fresh produce vouchers to low-income seniors and WIC recipients—is set to expire on Nov.

30. Last year, just over 45% of the vouchers were redeemed in Lehigh and Northampton counties.

St. Luke’s Structural Heart Program in Allentown is among the first in Pennsylvania to use the shortCut device to make high‑risk valve‑in‑valve procedures safer.

The procedure—performed by Dr. Christopher Sarnoski and Dr. Jose Amortegui—offers a less risky option for patients who would otherwise need open‑heart surgery.

Class of 1995 30th Class Reunion

6-10 p.m. — The Fairgrounds Hotel — $25 admission — Celebrate the big 30th reunion with buffet dinner and great memories.

Turkey Trot 5K and Fun Walk

1-3 p.m. — 1869 Luckenbach Mill — $20-45 — Work off your holiday feast with fun runs and a pet costume contest in support of community heritage.

Lehigh Valley Phantoms vs. Utica Comets

7:05-8:35 p.m. — PPL Center — Ticket prices vary — Catch an exciting ice hockey showdown between the Phantoms and the Comets.

Disney On Ice: Road Trip Adventures

7-8:30 p.m. — PPL Center — Family-friendly pricing available — Embark on an adventurous ride with Mickey Mouse and friends to famous Disney destinations.

Eric Mintel Quartet Performance

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Miller Symphony Hall — Ticketed event — Experience the captivating jazz sounds of Eric Mintel and his quartet, blending original compositions with smooth improvisation.

Living Succulent Holiday Ornament Workshop

6-7 p.m. — Illumination/Funk Brewing West End Taproom — Materials included — Create a unique living succulent ornament with a festive twist.

Road To Riches Showcase

7 PM — Sportsmen's Cafe — Food and drink vendors available — Celebrate 4 years of OIA Promotions with live performances and local artists.