No Rain Date

The coronavirus pandemic has changed many things, including how many of us work. Due to COVID-19’s unprecedented challenges, more companies than ever are moving away from the rigid requirements of America’s traditional office-based workspaces to embrace work-from-home and hybrid solutions. On the cutting edge of this evolution in how we work is Venture X Bethlehem, a coworking space on the city’s economically diverse South Side (and the home of a satellite Saucon Source office). In our two-part interview with owner Terry Wallace (click here to listen to Part 1), you’ll learn more about why businesses of all sizes–from sole proprietorships to large firms–are discovering that coworking spaces are fantastic incubators for growth. Terry also discusses his diverse employment background, which includes military service, working as a police officer, a career in the pharmaceutical industry and being part of the 2010s coworking revolution in New York City. As always, Josh has a local news roundup, which includes stories abou the adoption of a new agenda policy that will affect commenting at Lower Saucon Township Council meetings, funding concerns by Hellertown Area Library supporters, the ongoing, Omicron-fueled COVID surge and the Lehigh Valley’s first taste of winter. No Rain Date is conveniently available for listening and download on iTunes, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Amazon Music, Stitcher, Deezer, Tunein, Pocket Casts, Google Podcasts and other apps, in addition to Saucon Source. To learn more about the podcast, suggest an interview subject or share feedback, please email jo**@sa**********.com. No Rain Date is produced each week by Jonny Hart and is a production of Saucon Source LLC. Love No Rain Date? You can help support it by making a voluntary contribution and becoming a Saucon Source member today. Learn more here. And don’t forget to sign up to receive the free Saucon Source newsletter three times a week. You’ll enjoy the convenience of having the latest news delivered to your inbox every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, as well as peace of mind from knowing you’ll never miss another important story.

The coronavirus pandemic has changed many things, including how many of us work. Due to COVID-19’s unprecedented challenges, more companies than ever are moving away from the rigid requirements of America’s traditional office-based workspaces to embrace work-from-home and hybrid solutions. On the cutting edge of this evolution in how we work is Venture X Bethlehem, a coworking space on the city’s economically diverse South Side (and the home of a satellite Saucon Source office). In our two-part interview with owner Terry Wallace (click here to listen to Part 2), you’ll learn more about why businesses of all sizes–from sole proprietorships to large firms–are discovering that coworking spaces are fantastic incubators for growth. Terry also discusses his diverse employment background, which includes military service, working as a police officer, a career in the pharmaceutical industry and being part of the 2010s coworking revolution in New York City. As always, Josh has a local news roundup, which includes stories about overwhelming demand for COVID tests at local hospitals, a local business owner’s plan to seek a state House seat, Hellertown-Lower Saucon Winter Restaurant Week and the winner of our 2021 Holiday Lights Contest & Tour. He also reflects on the year that was in local news, with highlights from our Top 12 Most-Read stories list, and shares a special update for No Rain Date listeners. From all of us at No Rain Date, best wishes for a safe and happy New Year! No Rain Date is conveniently available for listening and download on iTunes, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Amazon Music, Stitcher, Deezer, Tunein, Pocket Casts, Google Podcasts and other apps, in addition to Saucon Source. To learn more about the podcast, suggest an interview subject or share feedback, please email jo**@sa**********.com. No Rain Date is produced each week by Jonny Hart and is a production of Saucon Source LLC. Love No Rain Date? You can help support it by making a voluntary contribution and becoming a Saucon Source member today. Learn more here. And don’t forget to sign up to receive the free Saucon Source newsletter three times a week. You’ll enjoy the convenience of having the latest news delivered to your inbox every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, as well as peace of mind of knowing you’ll never miss another story.

The coronavirus pandemic has challenged police departments in many ways, one of which is maintaining connections with the communities they serve. On this episode of No Rain Date, we learn how the Bethlehem Police Department has adapted its community programs and safety initiatives to help keep some of the city’s most vulnerable residents safe–and connected. Community Services Sgt. Blake Kuntz is our special guest to discuss this important and timely issue, as well as how the stress of working during the holidays can have an impact on officers. Sgt. Kuntz also provides us with an update on one of the department’s best-known and most beloved units–the Bethlehem Mounted Police–and discusses the Citizens Police Academy, which provides city residents an opportunity to learn more about the complexities of modern policing. As always, Josh has a local news roundup, including stories about two new local restaurants: a Thai noodle bar that’s coming to Hellertown and an Ecuadorian eatery that will be opening in South Bethlehem. Our roundup also includes updates on St. Luke’s University Health Network’s decision to restrict visitation in its hospitals to individuals who are fully vaccinate against COVID-19 and a local business whose generosity is brightening the holidays for local families in need. From all of us at No Rain Date, Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays! No Rain Date is conveniently available for listening and download on iTunes, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Amazon Music, Stitcher, Deezer, Tunein, Pocket Casts, Google Podcasts and other apps, in addition to Saucon Source. To learn more about the podcast, suggest an interview subject or share feedback, please email jo**@sa**********.com. No Rain Date is produced each week by Jonny Hart and is a production of Saucon Source LLC. Love No Rain Date? You can help support it by making a voluntary contribution and becoming a Saucon Source member today. Learn more here. And don’t forget to sign up to receive the free Saucon Source newsletter three times a week. You’ll enjoy the convenience of having the latest news delivered to your inbox every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, as well as peace of mind of knowing you’ll never miss another story.

Creating art is something that is often done in isolation, but art is inspired by the world around us, which is why it’s important for many artists to feel a sense of community. One highly-respected Lehigh Valley organization, Lehigh Art Alliance, has been providing that for more than 80 years. On this week’s episode of No Rain Date, we’re joined by LAA President El Shackleton and Vice President Laura Elmore for a discussion about ways their organization brings artists together for exhibits that enrich the lives of everyone in the community. Our discussion also extends to include the topic of COVID-19, and how the pandemic has impacted the local arts community. We learn what it means when an art exhibit is “juried,” what LAA exhibits are currenty happening and how anyone–including individuals who are simply lovers of art–can join and support Lehigh Art Alliance. As always, Josh has a local news roundup, including stories about the diagnosis of the first Omicron variant cases of COVID in the Lehigh Valley and the possible loosening of COVID health and safety guidelines in the Southern Lehigh School District. No Rain Date is conveniently available for listening and download on iTunes, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Amazon Music, Stitcher, Deezer, Tunein, Pocket Casts, Google Podcasts and other apps, in addition to Saucon Source. To learn more about the podcast, suggest an interview subject or share feedback, please email jo**@sa**********.com. No Rain Date is produced each week by Jonny Hart and is a production of Saucon Source LLC. Love No Rain Date? You can help support it by making a voluntary contribution and becoming a Saucon Source member today. Learn more here. And don’t forget to sign up to receive the free Saucon Source newsletter three times a week. You’ll enjoy the convenience of having the latest news delivered to your inbox every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, as well as peace of mind of knowing you’ll never miss another story.

If you’re looking for an inspiring subject to brighten your holiday season (or someone else’s), don’t miss our interview with New Bethany Ministries Executive Director Marc Rittle. Located on Bethlehem’s South Side and formerly affiliated with the region’s Episcopal Diocese, New Bethany has been helping individuals and families facing financial and other challenges find housing, food and hope since 1985. As with many area nonprofits, the pandemic has presented the organization with unprecedented obstacles, but also opportunities for growth. New Bethany Ministries depends on support from local sponsors and donors to fund its wide range of life-sustaining programs, which is why the significance of their beloved Luminaria Night fundraiser each December can’t be understated. (Note: This year’s Luminaria Night was postponed from Dec. 11 to Dec. 18 due to weather conditions.) To learn more about how to get involved and support New Bethany Ministries as a donor or volunteer, please visit their website. As always, Josh has a local news roundup, including stories about a stabbing in Hellertown, a Fountain Hill homicide, a salon coming to the Promenade Shops and a return to visitation restrictions at St. Luke’s University Health Network hospitals due to a surge in COVID-19 cases. No Rain Date is conveniently available for listening and download on iTunes, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Amazon Music, Stitcher, Deezer, Tunein, Pocket Casts, Google Podcasts and other apps, in addition to Saucon Source. To learn more about the podcast, suggest an interview subject or share feedback, please email jo**@sa**********.com. No Rain Date is produced each week by Jonny Hart and is a production of Saucon Source LLC. Love No Rain Date? You can help support it by making a voluntary contribution and becoming a Saucon Source member today. Learn more here. And don’t forget to sign up to receive the free Saucon Source newsletter three times a week. You’ll enjoy the convenience of having the latest news delivered to your inbox every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, as well as peace of mind of knowing you’ll never miss another story.

On Episode 83 of No Rain Date, we’re delighted to interview two people whose efforts to promote Bethlehem’s South Side as a unique holiday destination within the Christmas City have truly made them worthy of being on Santa’s “nice list.” Nicole Harrell and Addyson Young of ArtsQuest join us to discuss Christkindlmarkt–a large, festive craft market modeled after Germany’s traditional outdoor Christmas fairs–as well as a fun-packed SteelStacks event schedule featuring some less traditional seasonal offerings. Some of the cool things happening in the shadow of the blast furnaces this December are A Golden Girls Drag Christmas and the Frank Banko Alehouse Cinemas’ Holiday Quote-Along Series, where holiday film classics like National Lampoons’ Christmas Vacation and It’s A Wonderful Life will be on the marquee. Nicole explains how Christkindlmarkt has evolved since it first opened in 1992, and shares some pro tips for first-time visitors. As always, Josh has a local news roundup, including stories about South Bethlehem’s expanding restaurant scene, a brazen flash robbery at a high-end beauty product store near Allentown and a new Letters to Santa mailbox at the Hellertown Post Office. No Rain Date is conveniently available for listening and download on iTunes, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Amazon Music, Stitcher, Deezer, Tunein, Pocket Casts, Google Podcasts and other apps, in addition to Saucon Source. To learn more about the podcast, suggest an interview subject or share feedback, please email jo**@sa**********.com. No Rain Date is produced each week by Jonny Hart and is a production of Saucon Source LLC. Love No Rain Date? You can help support it by making a voluntary contribution and becoming a Saucon Source member today. Learn more here. And don’t forget to sign up to receive the free Saucon Source newsletter three times a week. You’ll enjoy the convenience of having the latest news delivered to your inbox every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, as well as peace of mind of knowing you’ll never miss another story.

On Episode 82 of No Rain Date, our special guest is a man who had to try using many different voices–literally–in order to find his own. Voice actor and instructor Brian S. Atwood explains that while his talent at impersonating everyone from Homer Simpson to Jimmy Stewart was what he thought would help him break into voice acting, it was ultimately his decision to use his own voice that helped launch his successful career following jobs with The Philadelphia Orchestroa and at Sirius Radio. In recent years, Atwood has raised his voice for such well-known clients as the Smithsonian Institution, General Electric, Nissan, Walmart, Pfizer Pharmaceuticals and Wikipedia, and his voice-over work has been featured on History Channel, H2, truTV, American Heroes Channel and HLN television programs, as well as in various national radio, internet and TV ad campaigns. Today, Atwood also stays busy by helping to train the next generation of voice actors as an instructor at Northampton Community College. As always, Josh has a news roundup of the latest local news, including a story about a local boy’s role playing Tiny Tim in Civic Theatre of Allentown’s production of “A Christmas Carol” and a feature about the newest member of the Saucon Valley Alumni Association’s Wall of Fame. No Rain Date is conveniently available for listening and download on iTunes, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Amazon Music, Stitcher, Deezer, Tunein, Pocket Casts, Google Podcasts and other apps, in addition to Saucon Source. To learn more about the podcast, suggest an interview subject or share feedback, please email jo**@sa**********.com. No Rain Date is produced each week by Jonny Hart and is a production of Saucon Source LLC. Love No Rain Date? You can help support it by making a voluntary contribution and becoming a Saucon Source member today. Learn more here. And don’t forget to sign up to receive the free Saucon Source newsletter three times a week. You’ll enjoy the convenience of having the latest news delivered to your inbox every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, as well as peace of mind of knowing you’ll never miss another story.

Live reindeer flying in from the North Pole for the ceremony? Free hot chocolate for everyone, along with the opportunity to tell Jolly Old St. Nick what’s on your Christmas wish list? Check, check and check. We’re talking about Light Up Night, the traditional kickoff to the holiday season in the Saucon Valley, of course, and the fact that it’s coming back at full size this year after adapting to meet stringent COVID-19 safety guidelines in 2020. On Episode 81 of No Rain Date, our special guests are two of Santa’s biggest helpers in Hellertown: the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce’s Jessica O’Donnell and Lauren Bertucci, who have all the details about what’s new and different for Light Up Night 2021. One change visitors will notice is the addition of craft stands. In fact, attendees can expect to find more than 50 vendors at this year’s Light Up Night, which will be held Saturday, Nov. 26 from 5 to 9 p.m. in Dimmick Park. Ice sculpting, live music, food and beverage vendors, cash wagon rides, children’s activities and Santa’s arrival on a fire truck will also be part of the fun. As always, Josh has a news roundup of the latest local news, including other holiday events you’ll want to put on your calendar. No Rain Date is conveniently available for listening and download on iTunes, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Amazon Music, Stitcher, Deezer, Tunein, Pocket Casts, Google Podcasts and other apps, in addition to Saucon Source. To learn more about the podcast, suggest an interview subject or share feedback, please email jo**@sa**********.com. No Rain Date is produced each week by Jonny Hart and is a production of Saucon Source LLC. Love No Rain Date? You can help support it by making a voluntary contribution and becoming a Saucon Source member today. Learn more here. And don’t forget to sign up to receive the free Saucon Source newsletter three times a week. You’ll enjoy the convenience of having the latest news delivered to your inbox every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, as well as peace of mind of knowing you’ll never miss another story.

On Episode 78 of No Rain Date, we welcome The Seeing Eye Area Coordinator Shannon Rager to the studio. The term “seeing eye dog” has become a universal coinage for just about any type of service canine, but Seeing Eye dogs are actually only those that are trained according to the rigorous standards of the organization for which they’re named, which was founded in Morristown, N.J., in the 1920s. Ever since then, the staff and volunteers of the Seeing Eye have been dedicated to training dogs for people who are blind and visually impaired, so they can lead more independent, fulfilling lives. To do this they depend on a closely-knit network of foster families who raise the pups in a learning environment in which they are groomed to potentially save someone’s life. Emotional attachments inevitably develop, but the ultimate goal is to provide a dog to someone whose life will be changed forever by it. We learn from our interview with Shannon how this process continued with modifications during the COVID pandemic, and how local families can become Seeing Eye puppy raisers. As always, Josh has a news roundup of the latest local news, including Veterans Day coverage and a story about a new craft cidery. No Rain Date is conveniently available for listening and download on iTunes, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Amazon Music, Stitcher, Deezer, Tunein, Pocket Casts, Google Podcasts and other apps, in addition to Saucon Source. To learn more about the podcast, suggest an interview subject or share feedback, please email jo**@sa**********.com. No Rain Date is produced each week by Jonny Hart and is a production of Saucon Source LLC. Love No Rain Date? You can help support it by making a voluntary contribution and becoming a Saucon Source member today. Learn more here. And don’t forget to sign up to receive the free Saucon Source newsletter three times a week. You’ll enjoy the convenience of having the latest news delivered to your inbox every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, as well as peace of mind of knowing you’ll never miss another story.

To all those who have served our country, Happy Veterans Day. On Episode 78 of No Rain Date–in our interview with Hellertown resident, Marine Corps veteran and yoga instructor Liz Thompson–our focus is on veterans and their health. After serving a tour of duty during the Iraq War in 2004-2005, Liz returned to the U.S. and civilian life, only to gradually discover that she hadn’t left the horrors of war behind. Despite some initial reluctance, she decided to try yoga as a means of reasserting control over her life. The rhythmic breathing and thoughtfulness of this ancient form of physical fitness helped her focus on her mental health and healing. Eventually she became a certified yoga instructor so she could help other veterans experience the same benefits from it. Today, she gives back to members of the local military community by leading a free yoga class for fellow veterans at the Hellertown American Legion, and through the nonprofit she founded, Balanced Warriors. Learn more and register for a class on the Balanced Warriors website. As always, Josh has a news roundup of the latest local news, including the results of last week’s competitive local school board, borough council and township council races. No Rain Date is conveniently available for listening and download on iTunes, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Amazon Music, Stitcher, Deezer, Tunein, Pocket Casts, Google Podcasts and other apps, in addition to Saucon Source. To learn more about the podcast, suggest an interview subject or share feedback, please email jo**@sa**********.com. No Rain Date is produced each week by Jonny Hart and is a production of Saucon Source LLC. Love No Rain Date? You can help support it by making a voluntary contribution and becoming a Saucon Source member today. Learn more here. And don’t forget to sign up to receive the free Saucon Source newsletter three times a week. You’ll enjoy the convenience of having the latest news delivered to your inbox every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, as well as peace of mind of knowing you’ll never miss another story.

☠ Happy Halloween! On Episode 78 of No Rain Date, we’re thrilled–and chilled–to be joined by local paranormal investigator, podcaster and filmmaker Justin Torok of Ghost Encounters, who has delved into the dark history of some of the Lehigh Valley’s most iconic locations. Justin–who also co-owns the local video production companies PhoenixFire Media and HomeSpot Media–first began investigating purported hauntings while studying at East Stroudsburg University. Over the years, he has led many investigations of places like the Weaversville Inn, the Sun Inn, Hexenkopf Rock, the Pocono Candle Shoppe, and most recently, Allentown’s Dorney Park. The amusement park founded in the late 19th century at the end of a trolley line has been the scene of bizarre tragedies over the years, and as Justin and his team recently discovered, the blood-curdling screams associated with Dorney Park’s rollercoasters and other rides might not all come from living souls. In our interview, you’ll also hear him talk about the most haunted place he has explored in over 10 years of paranormal investigating. Follow Justin and Ghost Encounters on Instagram, subscribe to his YouTube channel and listen to his podcast on iTunes and Spotify to learn more. As always, Josh has a news roundup of the latest local news and Saucon Source sportswriter, Keith “Coach Rief” Riefenstahl, has a preview of Friday night’s Saucon Valley vs. Palisades high school football game. No Rain Date is conveniently available for listening and download on iTunes, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Amazon Music, Stitcher, Deezer, Tunein, Pocket Casts, Google Podcasts and other apps, in addition to Saucon Source. To learn more about the podcast, suggest an interview subject or share feedback, please email jo**@sa**********.com. No Rain Date is produced each week by Jonny Hart and is a production of Saucon Source LLC. Love No Rain Date? You can help support it by making a voluntary contribution and becoming a Saucon Source member today. Learn more here. And don’t forget to sign up to receive the free Saucon Source newsletter three times a week. You’ll enjoy the convenience of having the latest news delivered to your inbox every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, as well as peace of mind of knowing you’ll never miss another story.

On Episode 77 of No Rain Date we’re joined by two people who help connect our community with art as part of the work they do at the Allentown Art Museum: Amanda Lovell, the museum’s Director of Public Engagement, and AAM’s Youth & Family Education & Programs Coordinator, Nicole Mangold. The Allentown Art Museum’s history spans roughly 85 years. During that time the institution founded as an outlet for Walter Baum’s art school has grown into a world-class cultural center, while remaining approachable by individuals from all walks of life. In order to remain a vital part of the Lehigh Valley’s arts and culture scene, the museum continues to evolve, via the unique programming it offers, the special events and exhibitions it hosts, and of course, with its collections. Nicole and Amanda discuss some of the upcoming items on the museum’s calendar as well as how anyone can enjoy them. We also learn about how the COVID pandemic has impacted the museum, preservation of the museum’s collections and how area residents can support it by becoming members or volunteers. As always, Josh has a news roundup and Saucon Source sportswriter, Keith “Coach Rief” Riefenstahl has a preview of Friday night’s Saucon Valley vs. Northwestern Lehigh football game. No Rain Date is conveniently available for listening and download on iTunes, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Amazon Music, Stitcher, Deezer, Tunein, Pocket Casts, Google Podcasts and other apps, in addition to Saucon Source. To learn more about the podcast, suggest an interview subject or share feedback, please email jo**@sa**********.com. No Rain Date is produced each week by Jonny Hart and is a production of Saucon Source LLC. Love No Rain Date? You can help support it by making a voluntary contribution and becoming a Saucon Source member today. Learn more here. And don’t forget to sign up to receive the free Saucon Source newsletter three times a week. You’ll enjoy the convenience of having the latest news delivered to your inbox every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, as well as peace of mind of knowing you’ll never miss another story.

On Episode 76 of No Rain Date we’re joined by Ellen Flynn, accomplished ghost storyteller, historian of creepy local places and dark side enchantress, for spooky tales about eight current or former Lehigh Valley eateries that are believed to be haunted. On Ellen’s list are Bethlehem’s Colonial era Sun Inn; the former King George Inn in South Whitehall Township; the former Magnolia’s Vineyard in Orefield; the former Newburg Inn in Lower Nazareth Township; the Iron Mule along the Delaware River near Easton; Braveheart Highland Pub in Hellertown; The Widow’s Tavern and Grille in Stockertown; and the Hanoverville Roadhouse in Bethlehem Township. Each establishment has at least one legend that is unique to it. For example, the ghost of a man named Marvin is rumored to haunt the Widow’s Tavern and Grille, where he was once employed. According to Ellen’s detailed research, Marvin was found hanging in the inn following a forbidden love affair with a female employee. But was it suicide…or murder? 😵 Some of the hauntings in these historic buildings are residual, while others are intelligent. And speaking of intelligence, it’s always a smart idea to support local business, so please consider a visit to one or more of these eateries this Halloween. As always, Josh has a local news roundup and Saucon Source sportswriter, Keith “Coach Rief” Riefenstahl, also has a preview of Friday’s football game in which Saucon Valley will take on Lehighton. No Rain Date is conveniently available for listening and download on iTunes, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Amazon Music, Stitcher, Deezer, Tunein, Pocket Casts, Google Podcasts and other apps, in addition to Saucon Source. To learn more about the podcast, suggest an interview subject or share feedback, please email jo**@sa**********.com. No Rain Date is produced each week by Jonny Hart and is a production of Saucon Source LLC. Love No Rain Date? You can help support it by making a voluntary contribution and becoming a Saucon Source member today. Learn more here. And don’t forget to sign up to receive the free Saucon Source newsletter three times a week. You’ll enjoy the convenience of having the latest news delivered to your inbox every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, as well as peace of mind of knowing you’ll never miss another story.

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT: Hear Dr. Ned Heindel speak about Hexenkopf Rock in person at a special talk, “Witches, Warlocks, and Wild Times: A History of the Haunted Hexenkopf Rock,” for Saucon Source and Lower Saucon Township Historical Society members. The talk will be held Saturday, Oct. 30 at 3 p.m. at Lower Saucon Town Hall, 3700 Old Philadelphia Pike, Bethlehem. If you’re already a member, register here for free tickets. Not yet a member? Join online and become a supporter of the local news we publish. You’ll also receive access to future events and perks for our member-supporters. On Episode 75 of No Rain Date we’re joined by Dr. Ned Heindel, Emeritus Howard S. Bunn Distinguished Professor of Chemistry at Lehigh University and an authority on the haunted history of Hexenkopf Rock in Williams Township. Dr. Heindel and his family have called Hexenkopf hill for over 50 years, but his interest in the Pennsylvania folk medicinal practice known as ‘pow-wowing’–which is closely associated with it–dates back to his childhood in York County. While pow-wowing or braucherei was used as a force for good, some witches practiced the Pennsylvania German version of black magic known as hexerei, and their presence can still be felt at Hexenkopf. In addition to its haunted history, Dr. Heindel discusses the hill’s seeming impenetrability by outsiders like those who wanted to build a natural gas pipeline across it, and whether he believes a curse put on them by Hexenkopf’s protectors may have caused the controversial pipeline plan to collapse. As always, Josh has a roundup of the latest local headlines, including stories about the imminent closing of a beloved Fountain Hill eatery, a corn maze and other fall fun at Olde Stone Farm near Easton, Homecoming weekend at Saucon Valley High School and upcoming local Halloween parades you won’t want to miss. Saucon Source sportswriter, Keith “Coach Rief” Riefenstahl, also has a preview of Friday night’s big Homecoming football game in which the Saucon Valley Panthers will try to claw their way into Colonial League playoff contention with a win over rival Southern Lehigh. No Rain Date is conveniently available for listening and download on iTunes, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Amazon Music, Stitcher, Deezer, Tunein, Pocket Casts, Google Podcasts and other apps, in addition to Saucon Source. To learn more about the podcast, suggest an interview subject or share feedback, please email jo**@sa**********.com. No Rain Date is produced each week by Jonny Hart and is a production of Saucon Source LLC. Love No Rain Date? You can help support it by making a voluntary contribution and becoming a Saucon Source member today. Learn more here. And don’t forget to sign up to receive the free Saucon Source newsletter three times a week. You’ll enjoy the convenience of having the latest news delivered to your inbox every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, as well as peace of mind of knowing you’ll never miss another story.

On Episode 74 of No Rain Date we’re joined by Allen Frank, who recently became the fifth director of the world-famous Liberty High School Grenadier Marching Band. Along with the high school, the band is gearing up to celebrate its centennial in 2022, beginning with the Oct. 31 Bethlehem Halloween Parade. Under director Ronald Sherry’s leadership in the 1960s the Grenadiers were styled after Britain’s famed Royal Coldstream Guard, and since then they have become a beloved, iconic symbol of the City of Bethlehem. Allen discusses the band’s storied history, the role band members play as cultural ambassadors and how COVID-19 has impacted its musicians over the past year-and-a-half. As always, Josh has a roundup of the latest local news headlines, including stories about a dine-and-dash investigation at a local restaurant, a methadone clinic burglary, Saucon Valley High School’s 2021 Homecoming Court and Halloween fun that’s just around the corner. Saucon Source sportswriter and coach, Keith Riefenstahl, has a preview of Friday night’s football game in which the Saucon Valley Panthers will battle the Bangor Area Slaters. No Rain Date is conveniently available for listening and download on iTunes, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Amazon Music, Stitcher, Deezer, Tunein, Pocket Casts, Google Podcasts and other apps, in addition to Saucon Source. To learn more about the podcast, suggest an interview subject or share feedback, please email jo**@sa**********.com. No Rain Date is produced each week by Jonny Hart and is a production of Saucon Source LLC. Love No Rain Date? You can help support it by making a voluntary contribution and becoming a Saucon Source member today. Learn more here. And don’t forget to sign up to receive the free Saucon Source newsletter three times a week. You’ll enjoy the convenience of having the latest news delivered to your inbox every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, as well as peace of mind of knowing you’ll never miss another story.

On Episode 72 of No Rain Date we’re joined by Will Rufe, a passionate chef-educator who is part of Northampton Community College’s (NCC) highly-regarded culinary arts program. Will shares his background with regard to food and the unlikely path that led him to become a chef, as well as his customer-centric philosophy toward cooking for the public. As an instructor at NCC, Will is not only training the chefs of tomorrow, but also a key player in managing the teaching restaurant on the school’s Bethlehem Township campus. Hampton Winds recently reopened after a closure of nearly 18 months, during which it was renovated with COVID safety protocols in mind. The restaurant is open to the public when classes are in session. Will finds the time to give back to his community by serving as a member of Fountain Hill Borough Council, and he discusses the current borough business climate as part of our interview. As always, Josh has a roundup of the latest local news headlines, including stories about a groundbreaking for a new rehabilitation hospital in Center Valley, a groundbreaking for a new public works building in Hellertown and a ribbon-cutting at a designer denim store at the Promenade Shops. Saucon Source sportswriter, Keith Riefenstahl, has a preview of Friday night’s football game in which the Saucon Valley Panthers will battle the Blue Mountain Eagles. No Rain Date is conveniently available for listening and download on iTunes, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Amazon Music, Stitcher, Deezer, Tunein, Pocket Casts, Google Podcasts and other apps, in addition to Saucon Source. To learn more about the podcast, suggest an interview subject or share feedback, please email jo**@sa**********.com. No Rain Date is produced each week by Jonny Hart and is a production of Saucon Source LLC. Love No Rain Date? You can help support it by making a voluntary contribution and becoming a Saucon Source member today. Learn more here. And don’t forget to sign up to receive the free Saucon Source newsletter three times a week. You’ll enjoy the convenience of having the latest news delivered to your inbox every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, as well as peace of mind of knowing you’ll never miss another story.

On Episode 72 of No Rain Date we’re joined by Jim and Amy Koch, who run Olde Stone Farm in Easton. The farm has been in the Koch family for three generations and nearly 100 years. What once was a dairy farm, now mainly produces corn, wheat and hay. The pair were excited to discuss a fall festival they are launching this October called Harvest Days. Harvest Days is a smaller scale, family-oriented fall festival, which will feature a 2-acre corn maze, tractor-pulled hay rides, seasonal games, farm animals, and pumpkins, mums and corn stalks for sale. Snacks and refreshments will also be available. Harvest Days will be held on Saturdays and Sundays in October from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Jonny steps in for this episode to provide a roundup of the biggest headlines from this week, which include early plans for a development at the former site of Neighbors Home & Garden, the return of the Saucon Valley Spirit Parade and a disc golf championship being held in Hellertown. Sportswriter, Keith Riefenstahl, also provides a preview of this weekend’s football clash between Saucon Valley and Wilson. No Rain Date is conveniently available for listening and download on iTunes, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Amazon Music, Stitcher, Deezer, Tunein, Pocket Casts, Google Podcasts and other apps, in addition to Saucon Source. To learn more about the podcast, suggest an interview subject or share feedback, please email jo**@sa**********.com. No Rain Date is produced each week by Jonny Hart and is a production of Saucon Source LLC. Love No Rain Date? You can help support it by making a voluntary contribution and becoming a Saucon Source member today. Learn more here. And don’t forget to sign up to receive the free Saucon Source newsletter three times a week. You’ll enjoy the convenience of having the latest news delivered to your inbox every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, as well as peace of mind of knowing you’ll never miss another story.

On Episode 71 of No Rain Date we’re joined by Marcie Mulligan, Director of Cultural Education for the Celtic Cultural Alliance, which organizes Bethlehem’s annual Celtic Classic. The three-day festival is a celebration of all things Celtic and a fall staple in the Christmas City, where it had to be canceled last year due to the coronavirus pandemic. Marcie explains how it has evolved and grown since it was first held in 1988, and how its organizers have adapted this year to ensure that a safe, fun event can be held. The 2021 Celtic Classic will be held Friday, Sept. 24 to Sunday, Sept. 26 in downtown Bethlehem, with shuttle service available from Valley Center Parkway. For more information, visit CelticFest.org. Celtic Cultural Alliance is an organization that promotes Celtic heritage in the Lehigh Valley all year-round, and Marcie tells about some of their other initiatives as well. As always, Josh has highlights from the week that was in local news, including an update on a fatal crash at the Jersey Shore involving a Coopersburg man and a benefit motorcycle ride–Pipes 4 Paws–that will end at Dewey Fire Co. in Hellertown Sept. 26. Our sportswriter, Keith Riefenstahl, also has an exciting preview of Friday’s Saucon Valley-Pottsville high school football game. No Rain Date is conveniently available for listening and download on iTunes, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Amazon Music, Stitcher, Deezer, Tunein, Pocket Casts, Google Podcasts and other apps, in addition to Saucon Source. To learn more about the podcast, suggest an interview subject or share feedback, please email jo**@sa**********.com. No Rain Date is produced each week by Jonny Hart and is a production of Saucon Source LLC. Love No Rain Date? You can help support it by making a voluntary contribution and becoming a Saucon Source member today. Learn more here. And don’t forget to sign up to receive the free Saucon Source newsletter three times a week. You’ll enjoy the convenience of having the latest news delivered to your inbox every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, as well as peace of mind of knowing you’ll never miss another story.

On Episode 70 of No Rain Date, we’re joined by Licia Grim, owner of Pins ‘N Needles, a Saucon Valley Farmers’ Market vendor selling hand-sewn masks, scrunchies, coasters and other unique items. Grim became a weekly vendor at the Hellertown market in 2020, just after it opened with COVID-19 precautions–including a mask requirement–in place. Her eye-catching mask immediately drew the attention of a volunteer and other patrons, and her ability to quickly mass produce them–a skill she developed growing up immersed in the garment industry in the Lehigh Valley’s Slate Belt–made Pins ‘N Needles a perfect fit. Licia also gives back to the market by coordinating the local artisans who sell their wares there. The Saucon Valley Farmers’ Market is open every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. from early May till late November, next to the Hellertown Area Library at 409 Constitution Ave., Hellertown, Pa. This year’s final market will be held Sunday, Nov. 24. As always, Josh has highlights from the week that was in local news, including an update on historic flash flooding triggered by the remnants of Hurricane Ida that damaged homes and businesses in the Saucon Valley area and beyond. No Rain Date is conveniently available for listening and download on iTunes, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Amazon Music, Stitcher, Deezer, Tunein, Pocket Casts, Google Podcasts and other apps, in addition to Saucon Source. To learn more about the podcast, suggest an interview subject or share feedback, please email jo**@sa**********.com. No Rain Date is produced each week by Jonny Hart and is a production of Saucon Source LLC. Love No Rain Date? You can help support it by making a voluntary contribution and becoming a Saucon Source member today. Learn more here. And don’t forget to sign up to receive the free Saucon Source newsletter three times a week. You’ll enjoy the convenience of having the latest news delivered to your inbox every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, as well as peace of mind of knowing you’ll never miss another story.

On Episode 69 of No Rain Date, we’re joined by Ellen Underwood, Marketing and Outreach Coordinator for Buy Fresh Buy Local of the Greater Lehigh Valley to discuss how the organization supports consumers who want to purchase locally-grown produce and other foods at an affordable price. As Ellen explains, local agriculture is sustainable agriculture, which is why BFBLGLV is a partner to nearly a dozen Lehigh Valley area producer-only farmers markets. These markets only sell locally-grown produce, pasture-raised meats and other foodstuffs that are native to east central Pennsylvania. Buy Fresh Buy Local also supports organizations like the Kellyn Foundation in their efforts to help nourish the residents of the Lehigh Valley’s growing food deserts, via their Mobile Food Market. A major component of BFBLGLV’s mission is education, which is why they’re constantly working to promote local food providers like the vendors at the Saucon Valley Farmers’ Market. You can even win great prizes from some of them buy playing “Eat Right Here” on Buy Fresh Buy Local’s website, where you’ll find much more information about our local food economy as well as resources designed to help you take advantage of it. As always, Josh has highlights from the week that was in local news, including an important update on the Southern Lehigh School District’s updated health & safety plan. No Rain Date is conveniently available for listening and download on iTunes, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Amazon Music, Stitcher, Deezer, Tunein, Pocket Casts, Google Podcasts and other apps, in addition to Saucon Source. To learn more about the podcast, suggest an interview subject or share feedback, please email jo**@sa**********.com. No Rain Date is produced each week by Jonny Hart and is a production of Saucon Source LLC. Love No Rain Date? You can help support it by making a voluntary contribution and becoming a Saucon Source member today. Learn more here. And don’t forget to sign up to receive the free Saucon Source newsletter three times a week. You’ll enjoy the convenience of having the latest news delivered to your inbox every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, as well as peace of mind of knowing you’ll never miss another story.