Here's your local news at a glance for Tuesday, the 29th of September.
Good morning, Bethlehem.
🏘️ Community
Chris Cook, a township supervisor in Lower Mount Bethel Township, shared his journey from surviving abuse by a former sheriff to seeking justice after a decade-long fight and plans to launch a foundation to help others.
His story resonates with local efforts to heal past trauma + build community support.
🎭 Culture
Tickets are now on sale for Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem presented by Univest Financial at SteelStacks as it will open on Nov.
13 and run on select weekends through Dec. 20. The market will offer artisan vendors, festive treats and family activities in a German-inspired holiday celebration.
The Goose, a family-run sandwich shop at 102 W.
Fourth St., has served Lehigh students and the Bethlehem community for 47 years. Founded in 1979 by Robert Goosley and Mike Corcoran, it is now led by local owners Tony and Debbie Silvoy (displaying Lehigh memorabilia throughout the deli).
🎓 Education
Bethlehem Area School District reports that more than half of its 11th graders scored below the proficiency level on Keystone Exams, with rates dropping from 54.6% to 50.4% since 2022.
District leaders and educators are using new science based literacy methods (including extended teacher training) to help improve student reading skills.
The BASD Board approved coaching for teachers and support for administrators starting Tuesday through June 30 for up to $110,000.
They also sanctioned behavior support, property consolidation at Fountain Hill, alternative placement for New Hope Academy, and new clubs at Freedom High and East Hills Middle.
🏛️ Government
Church Road between Country Club Road and William Penn Highway was closed to southbound traffic on Monday for reconstruction and paving; it will remain closed until Dec.
23 while northbound lanes stay open and motorists follow the detour via Country Club Road, Green Pond Road and Farmersville Road.
🏥 Health
Health officials reported 903 measles cases across 39 counties in Pennsylvania and noted 13 new cases since Sept.
25, 2026 with 5,300 MMR vaccines given at pop-up clinics; additional clinics are planned for affected communities.
Jefferson Health and LVHN remain in network with IBX through Dec.
31, but negotiations over reimbursement rates could leave IBX patients out-of-network starting Jan.-1 if no deal is reached. Both sides say discussions continue.
🏈 Sports
Lehigh women’s soccer will face Navy on Sept.
30 at home as head coach Lauren Calabrese said the team will work on consistent communication and tactics—following an 0-2 start in Patriot League play.
🎉 Bethlehem Events
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