The years 1920-1933 spanned a peculiar time in American history. Thanks to the 18th Amendment to the Constitution, the production, transportation, and sale of alcoholic beverages was strictly prohibited. Of course, that didn’t mean people couldn’t get their hands on alcohol. Wealthy people stockpiled it before the 18th Amendment was ratified. “Bathtub gin” and other homem... »
Let me just say two things: I am not a pedantic grammarian, nor am I infallible. In fact, people who correct other people’s grammar in casual conversation are more of a personal pet peeve than people who can’t remember the difference between “your” and “you’re.” There is no reason for everything to read and sound like a terms of use agreement. I believe in liberally exerci... »
They say necessity is the mother of invention, and for Lehigh University graduate student Gina Gullo, that’s pretty much how her passion for cooking began. When she moved off campus in college, she no longer had a meal plan and had to start cooking for herself. It didn’t take her long to get started on a fruitful path. “I got spoiled on meal plan food and wanted nicer thi... »
Jetting around the Lehigh Valley and still need to get your coffee fix? Support your caffeine addiction—and small businesses—by stopping in one of these mom-and-pop coffee shops. Backdoor Bakeshop 92 E Broad St, Bethlehem 610.625.0987 Try: the Mexi Hot Mocha, a cocoa coffee concoction with a kick from ancho chile and cayenne powder. BeanBath Cafe 2425 Plaza Ct, Bath 484.28... »
What’s your favorite book? It seems like an innocuous question. In essence, it’s no different than inquiring about a favorite movie or ice cream flavor. It’s interesting, then, that when I ask the average American adult in 2017 to name theirs, I’m often met with an expression that I can only describe as a deer in after-market high beams. It’s as if I’ve instead asked how m... »
The Lehigh Valley has thirsted for locally produced beer since the 18th century when the Moravians built breweries in Bethlehem and near Nazareth. According to the handwritten papers of Moravian historian Robert Rau (1844-1906) in the Moravian Archives, one of the Lehigh Valley’s first breweries was built in Bethlehem along the banks of the Lehigh River behind the Brethren... »
With the winter winds blowing outside, nothing says cozy like being curled up in your favorite chair with a hot beverage and a good book. Instead of trying to compete with the big chain stores, independent Lehigh Valley booksellers have carved out their own niche in the used, antique, and hard-to-find book market, while still maintaining their own unique vibe. Now and Then... »
The holidays are upon us, and there is perhaps no better way to get into the spirit than by indulging in some freshly made Christmas cookies. Whether it’s an afternoon spent baking at home, an evening with friends at a cookie swap, or taking a break at the office by convening around a delicious tray of assorted treats, nothing seems to help spread the holiday cheer more th... »
Where better to spend some time this holiday season than in Christmas City and the surrounding areas? From a Christmas tree lightings to horse-drawn carriage rides and glimmering displays of lights as far as the eye can see, the Lehigh Valley doesn’t miss a beat when it comes to celebrating the holiday festivities in warmth and style. Mark your calendars now to be sure you... »
Popcorn in hand, drink by your side, you glance around at the historic architecture of the theatre, the curtain opens, the music swells, anticipation fills your heart as you settle in for the movie feature. In a seemingly bygone era, this is what it meant to spend a night at the movies. Three Lehigh Valley theatres are keeping this big-screen ambience alive by providing th... »
