Hits! The Musical is a high energy production featuring America’s best young superstars.
The cast of approximately 22 members will consist of the country’s most talented singers and dancers, ages 8-23.
Musical Journey through the Decades
The show will take audiences on a musical journey through the decades, highlighting the biggest hits of all time in Pop, Country, Rock and Broadway.
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Hotel California “A Salute to the Eagles” Sat July 23 at Allentown Symphony Orchestra
It will incorporate fast-paced production medleys, dazzling costumes, and is sure to thrill audiences young and old!
Hits! is the brainchild of the longtime director of the Tampa based, “Entertainment Revue,” which has produced many successful recording artists, Broadway stars and professional actors.
High-Level Production
The show is being produced by Robert Gries, owner of RGJ Productions.
Mr. Gries is a highly successful private equity executive and philanthropist. Mr. Gries’ family were also minority owners of the Cleveland Browns for 60 years. He has a passion for helping young people and has generously decided to donate 100% of profits to support the arts.
The Hits! Team
Executive Producer Bob Gries
Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, Robert Gries is CEO and founder of the Gries Investment Funds. Mr. Gries has over twenty-five years of investment experience. This experience ranges from being a mezzanine lender to real estate to acquiring companies.
The Gries Investment Funds are most recognized for its investment in and growth of Public Power, a deregulated electricity supplier in Connecticut. The company was acquired in 2009 for $13 million, taken public and sold to Vistra Energy in 2019 for $486 million.
In addition to his business interests, Mr. Gries’s family has a longstanding history with professional sports. Mr. Gries’s grandfather was a founding member and owner of the Cleveland Rams in 1936 and the Cleveland Browns in 1946. The family’s minority ownership ended sixty years later in 1996 when Mr. Gries’s father refused to be part of moving the Browns to Baltimore and sold the family’s ownership interest. Throughout the 1980’s and 90’s, Mr. Gries served on the board of the Cleveland Browns with his father. Mr. Gries also owned Arena Football teams in Tampa and Orlando and was owner of the Tampa Bay Storm teams when they won championships in 1991 and 1993.
Philanthropy and helping young people are passions in Mr. Gries’ life today. In addition to being an active philanthropist, Mr. Gries has assisted many charitable organizations, including serving as Co-Chair of the Tampa Boys & Girls Club annual fundraising drive in 2018 and 2019 which raised record amounts each year. He has served on many non-profit and civic boards including the University of Tampa, Berkeley Preparatory School and the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center.
Director Cynthia Nekvasil
Cynthia Nekvasil is the founder of Entertainment Revue, and served as its artistic director and choreographer for 26 years until retiring in 2015.
Cynthia was a sophomore studying political science at the University of Tampa when she was offered a position as an “after school” music instructor at a small local elementary school. That opportunity led to a summer music camp, which she directed, and Entertainment Revue was born in 1989.
During those final years in college, Cynthia developed a presence in the community by becoming active in the Tampa Chamber of Commerce, the Tampa Visitors Association, and successfully secured a corporate sponsorship from the Pepin Distributing Company.
Entertainment Revue became a well-known group in the Tampa Bay area and began building a repertoire to fulfill the demands of their new corporate clients. In 1992, Cynthia formed a non-profit organization and set up an educational scholarship fund. Cynthia’s intention was to provide “need-based” tuition grants, as well as establish a college scholarship fund for cast members. To date, Entertainment Revue has awarded over $500,000 in educational scholarships, which have been paid out to girls in universities all over the country.
Director / Musical Arranger / Composer Tony Bruno
For the last 12 years, Tony has worked with Rihanna, Enrique Iglesias, K’naan, Karmin, Delta Goodrem to name a few. Tony is responsible for all facets of live shows, awards shows and TV shows, working closely with the artist, Audio and Visual people as a team. “We try never to repeat ourselves on TV shows. Its important, especially with YouTube out there. You’re basically giving your audience a small collection of videos.”
His TV credits include The Grammys, Americas Got Talent, La Voz Kids, X-Factor, the AMAs, Jay Leno, Top Of The Pops, MTV Music Awards and TRL, and Wetten Das, and countless others. Tony has written and produced songs for top artists including Mandy Moore, Donna Summer, INXS, Colin Hay and Enrique Iglesias. His song Daylight in Your Eyes for German artists No Angels was the 2nd best selling German single of all time.
Choreographer Grady Bowman
Grady’s work has been seen across many different genres including Broadway, off-Broadway, television, circus, dance companies & numerous universities. Most recently, he was nominated for a Helen Hayes award for his choreography of Singin’ in the Rain at the Olney Theatre Center (DC).
Grady has also created 4 original dance pieces commissioned by NC School of the Arts. Associate Director credits include Big Apple Circus (Lincoln Center), A Night with Janis Joplin (Regional Tour), and The Great American Mousical (Goodspeed Opera House; Dir. Julie Andrews). Associate Choreographer credits include Dogfight (Off-Bway; Choreo. Chris Gattelli), In Your Arms (The Old Globe/NY Stage & Film), and Top Hat (NY developmental lab).
In his previous life as a performer, Grady was in the original Broadway companies of Billy Elliot, South Pacific (2008 Lincoln Center revival), Honeymoon in Vegas, Wonderland, and The Pirate Queen. He toured internationally with Fosse and Pilobolus Dance Theatre and also appeared in the films Forrest Gump and The Last Five Years.
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Hellertown-Lower Saucon: Light Up Night 2024 Nov 29 Family Fun at Morris J. Dimmick Park
Hellertown-Lower Saucon: Light Up Night 2024 Nov 29 Family Fun at Morris J. Dimmick Park
The Hellertown-Lower Saucon Chamber, a proud partner of the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce, is thrilled to present the annual Light Up Night, happening on Friday, November 29, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Morris J. Dimmick Park (570 Durham Street, Hellertown). This hallmark event promises an evening full of holiday joy, delicious food, live entertainment, and a dazzling tree-lighting ceremony to kick off the festive season.
“Come join the jolly community spirit! We have great performances from the Saucon Valley Band and Choir to the local Cub Scouts Group #349, plus lots of tasty treats and gifts for everyone,” says Rod Long, Chairman of the Light Up Night committee. This year’s presenting sponsors are Mobile Technology Graphics and Bethlehem Landfill.
Event Highlights:
Light Up Night will feature something for everyone, from families looking to create cherished memories to adults enjoying seasonal beverages. Santa Claus will make a special appearance all the way from the North Pole with a few of his reindeer friends, and live entertainment from local organizations such as the Saucon Valley School District Band and Choir will keep spirits bright throughout the evening. There will be a live ice carving demonstration, free children’s activities and crafts, cash family wagon rides, special appearances from Mickey and Minnie Mouse, and so much more! Guests can shop for unique holiday gifts at vendor stalls and enjoy a variety of activities for all ages.
Make sure to stop by Chamber tent to pick up your Candy Cane Lane passport! This is the inaugural running of the trail, spanning from November 30th to December 7th encompassing your favorite businesses and restaurants in the area. Stop at each location and find the hiding Candy Cane, submit a completed passport to the Chamber to be entered into a raffle!
Food and Beverage Vendors:
This year’s event will include a mouthwatering lineup of food and drink vendors: Big Poppa’s Backyard BBQ, Cosmic Kettle Corn, Couchpota.doh, DonutNV, Fired Up Artisan Pizza, Hausman’s Fruit Farms, Nick and Noah’s, Race to Taste Curbside Grill, RK Mobile, and Tommy’s Italian Kitchen.
For those seeking seasonal drinks, Easton Wine Project, Five Maidens Cider Company, and Lost Tavern Brewing will serve a selection of wines, ciders, and craft brews. Please note: Patrons must be at least 21 years old to purchase and consume alcoholic beverages.
Sponsors:
The success of Light Up Night is made possible by the generous support of local businesses and organizations, including:
- Host Sponsor: Borough of Hellertown
- Presenting Sponsors: Bethlehem Landfill, Mobile Technology Graphics
- Reindeer Sponsor: Heintzelman’s Funeral Home
- Santa’s Sleigh Sponsor: Ron Smith
- Candy Cane Sponsor: Sure Fix Remodeling
- Hot Chocolate and Cookies Sponsors: ASR Media/Fig Magazine, Creekview Veterinary Hospital, Hellertown Dental Group, Lindsay O. Albert, EA, Service Electric Cable TV & Communications
- Sleigh Supporting Sponsor: Jim Gardner, State Farm Agency
- Tractor Ride Sponsor: Steel Club
- Wagon Sponsor: Hausman Fruit Farms
- Comfort Station Sponsors: Carl Volkman & Sons HVAC, Dewey Fire Co.
- Warm Hands Sponsors: Truist, Saucon Valley Bikes
- Jolly Supporting Sponsors: Designing Wealth Management of Raymond James, Hellertown Veterinary Center
- Decoration Sponsors: Andy’s & Pennewell’s Flower Shop, JP Mascaro, Limon Authentic Turkish Kebap House, Lost River Caverns, Saucon Valley Karate Academy
- Apple Sponsor: Bechdolt Orchards
- Cookies Sponsor: GIANT Food Stores
- Cozy Corner Sponsor: Dewey Fire Co.
- Print Sponsor: FastSIGNS of Easton
This year’s Light Up Night is expected to draw thousands of attendees, making it the perfect opportunity to connect with neighbors, support local businesses, and celebrate the season. Admission is free and open to the public.
For more details, visit the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber website or contact the Hellertown-Lower Saucon Chamber via email at AaronG@lehighvalleychamber.org.
Don’t miss this cherished tradition—let’s light up the night and welcome the holiday season together!
About the Chamber: The mission of The Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce is to improve the economy and quality of life in the Lehigh Valley Metropolitan Area. We accomplish this through business-to-business networking events and marketing products, affinity programs and exclusive, money saving member benefits, training programs, government affairs initiatives and public policy advocacy, and community development enterprises. With nearly 5,000 members who employ more than 200,000, the Chamber is the largest in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, and in the top ten nationwide.
Thanksgiving in Lehigh Valley: the perfect stuffing bread DOES exist – and it’s… [recipe inside]
This Thanksgiving in the Lehigh Valley, the perfect stuffing bread DOES exist – and it’s brioche. As in St Pierre Brioche Thanksgiving Stuffing
No Thanksgiving spread is complete without a hearty stuffing. While add-ins are a matter of preference, choosing the right bread is crucial. One underrated choice is eggy, rich brioche – and with St Pierre Bakery, you don’t need to go to France to get it.
Thanks to its butter and egg content, St Pierre’s Brioche Loaf provides the perfect balance of crisp toastiness while remaining soft and creamy inside, while its lightly sweet flavor adds a decadent quality that can still lean savory. Attached below is an approachable recipe for stuffing allowing for all the craveable crunch for the whole family with minimal effort required.
St Pierre Brioche Thanksgiving Stuffing
By @BrandiMilloy
Ingredients
1 loaf St. Pierre Brioche Bread
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 medium onion, diced
3/4 cup celery, diced
3/4 cup carrots, diced
1 cup mushrooms, diced
2 large eggs
1 tbsp. fresh rosemary, chopped
3 sprigs fresh thyme, just the leaves
1 tbsp. fresh sage, chopped
1 small apple (granny smith works well), peeled and diced
Salt and pepper
Directions
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Preheat oven to 350 F. Cut brioche bread into 1” cubes and bake for about 10-15 minutes until toasted.
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Meanwhile, into a pot over medium high heat add butter until melted. Add onion, celery and carrots and cook until everything starts to soften, about 7 minutes. Add mushrooms and cook for 2 minutes longer. Remove from heat and set aside.
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Into a bowl whisk together the eggs, herbs, apples, mushrooms, and salt and pepper. Add your cooked vegetables and mix to combine.
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Pour mixture on top of toasted bread and stir to combine. Bake stuffing for about 45 minutes. If your stuffing starts to get too brown, cover until finished baking. Enjoy!
As America’s favorite brioche brand, St Pierre’s products are widely available via grocery stores nationwide as well as Walmart.
Election Day 2024: Elixir Health and Wellness Offers Free Red Light and Compression Therapy to Encourage Voter Turnout on Election Day
Election Day 2024: Elixir Health and Wellness Offers Free Red Light and Compression Therapy to Encourage Voter Turnout on Election Day
ELIXIR Health and Wellness, Bethlehem’s premier destination for non-invasive, anti-aging therapies, is excited to announce a special Election Day initiative to promote community engagement and support voter turnout. On Tuesday, November 5th, all voters across the Lehigh Valley are invited to stop by Elixir Health and Wellness, located at 1021 Main Street, Bethlehem, PA, for a complimentary session of red light or compression therapy between 9:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.
“At Elixir Health and Wellness, we believe in the power of caring, both for the body and the community,” said Yuliya, owner of Elixir Health and Wellness.
“We’re thrilled to offer this special opportunity as a way to give back to our neighbors who make their voices heard on Election Day. Voting is one of the most impactful ways to shape our community, and we want to support everyone who takes the time to participate.”
To take advantage of this Election Day offer, individuals simply need to show proof of voting, such as an “I Voted” sticker. Those who voted early are welcome to participate as well. Elixir Health and Wellness will be open all day to provide red light and compression therapy sessions that can help rejuvenate individuals after casting a ballot.
For those registered near Elixir Health and Wellness, the nearest polling location is:
College Hill Moravian Church
72 W. Laurel St.
Bethlehem, PA 18018
Whether you’re looking for a wellness boost or a relaxing break, Elixir Health and Wellness invites the Bethlehem community to experience its renowned anti-aging therapies and celebrate the importance of civic engagement.
For more information about Elixir Health and Wellness and this Election Day event, please visit our website at www.elixirlv.com.
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Youell’s Oyster House is the Lehigh Valley’s Answer to ‘Sea to Table’ Seafood
Youell’s Oyster House is the Lehigh Valley’s answer to seafood.
Youell’s Oyster House is hidden in a cozy neighborhood of Allentown, PA within minutes of the Allentown Fairgrounds, Muhlenberg College and Cedar Crest College. About twenty minutes from the PPL center.
Youell’s Oyster House has History
Part of Pennsylvania history, originally opened in 1895. Then Gus Filipos, a longtime patron of Youell’s, bought the business in 1984 and his son Chris joined in 1987.
Over the years they earned a reputation for excellent food. Their oysters, their Certified Black Angus beef. Their wine and craft beer selections.
And very fresh seafood.
According to their website the scallops (and presumably most of their seafood) is caught less than 12 hours before being served on your plate.
Pretty good.
The motto they repeat throughout their website is:
“Upscale dining
in a relaxed atmosphere.”
I was told a few times during a recent East Coast visit, that Youell’s has the best seafood in the Lehigh Valley, so I planned to try them out.
Let’s Taste Youell’s
I arrive on a Saturday mid-afternoon, take a seat at their half full bar and proceed to order an Old Fashioned, Caesar Salad and Salmon Tartare.
Youells Oyster House Caesar salad
Cuisine
Are the ingredients fresh? Is your dish well-plated?
The cuisine is excellent. Crisp lettuce in the salad. Fresh, creamy salmon tartare. The plating is inventive and inspiring. I can close my eyes later and still happily taste it all.
Youells Oyster House Salmon Tartare
Youell’s Ambience
The setting is comfortably disarming. The phrase they use is “Upscale dining in a relaxed atmosphere’ and they accomplish this goal.
Open floorplan, lovingly re-built after a devastating fire, pastel and light wood. Lots of outside light shining in.
Youells Oyster Bar
Not necessarily “romantic”, but more “homey”. Not really a first date kind of place, nor a “Saturday night” kind of place.
I am a bit surprised the customers ranged older (55+) considering the location is so close to colleges and other younger spots.
Service
As mentioned, it’s a Saturday afternoon and I am surprised by how busy it is. Feels like neighbors and regulars. Nobody seems “in a rush.”
My bartender is friendly and pleasant, but she keeps busy. The service is as relaxed as the vibe itself. Some prefer that, some would like a bit more attention.
Hospitality
Does the restaurant deliver on the promise it makes to their customers?
If you’re looking for comfort and excellent food, this is a great place to try. Not “impressive” or romantic, but down home quality.
I’d go back again on a Friday or Saturday night to see if the vibe does evolve for a more sexy, date night feel. But my guess is, it doesn’t and that’s the way the restaurant and its usual crowd likes it.
Youell’s Oyster House has excellent seafood in the Lehigh Valley, but their relaxed ambience might leave some of their customers wanting more of an experience.
Located at 2249 Walnut St, Allentown, PA 18104
Lunch 11-3pm daily
Dinner from 11am daily
Visit their website at: https://youellsoysterhouse.com/
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Lehigh Valley Humane Society Launches Oct 22 Community Day & Grand Opening!
Lehigh Valley Humane Society Community Day & Grand Opening of Vet Clinic Oct 22
Come tour the brand-new building and celebrate the long-awaited grand reopening of the Lehigh Valley Humane Society on Oct 22
There will be live music, kids activities, pet caricatures, food trucks, and more.A ribbon cutting ceremony run by the Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce will be at 12pm.
Lehigh Valley Humane Society CEO Hal Warner shares
“On October 22nd 2022, the Lehigh Valley Humane Society
will reintroduce ourselves with not only a new name, but a renewed commitment
to the people and the animals of the Lehigh Valley.
“…Our new state-of-the-art facility will feature over 100 new dog kennels, hundreds of square feet of free roaming cat space, outdoor play yards, dog training and animal grooming.
The new LVHS will also offer a brand-new full-service Community Vet Clinic that offers high-quality services at affordable prices. This reopening is a symbol of our ongoing mission to provide exceptional services to the animals of the Lehigh Valley and beyond.”
The nonprofit was founded in 1906 to provide a haven for homeless animals and to prevent cruelty to both animals and children. All homeless animals brought to them will find sanctuary and upon entering, each animal is examined, vaccinated, housed, and fed. In June of 2018 they launched their Community Vet Clinic, a much-needed program to enable responsible pet owners to get otherwise-inaccessible medical care for their pet.
Their mission drives their initiatives as they seek “to be the leading advocate for breeds such as pit bulls that often are left behind or ignored by other shelters. To provide high quality medical care for all animals and to offer financial assistance to those pet owners that cannot otherwise afford vet services. To match responsible pet seekers with their next best friend in order to find the perfect home for the animals in our care.”
Executive Vice President of Affiliated Chambers, Easton & Phillipsburg Area Initiatives, & Northern Tier Jessica O’Donnell-Gower looks forward to the celebration, “The Lehigh Valley Humane Society not only provides a tremendous service for our community and their furry friends, but they also act as true community partners with their involvement and support of other organizations. This Saturday is just one small way we can show up and show the support in return. We hope to see our community come out in full force for this milestone celebration of the Lehigh Valley Humane Society!”
Lehigh Valley Humane Society website: https://lehighvalleyhumanesociety.org/
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For Ukraine: A Concert of Remembrance and Hope at Miller Symphony Hall August 20
For Ukraine: A Concert of Remembrance and Hope at Miller Symphony Hall on Sunday, August 20
Miller Symphony Hall announces a very special concert, coming up on Sunday, August 20. For Ukraine: A Concert of Remembrance and Hope will unite everyone in support of Ukraine in her time of need and is presented by Miller Symphony Hall and The Allentown Band, just in time to celebrate Ukraine’s Independence Day (August 24).
Allentown Band Conductor Ronald Demkee notes:
“I am so looking forward to conducting this concert, which is special in so many ways.
Lots of wonderful music, some familiar, some new, and an internationally acclaimed composer conducting his own symphony that features a world class soloist and an outstanding youth chorus; this will surely result in a memorable and rewarding experience for all. Add to that the fact that net proceeds will support Ukrainian humanitarian efforts, which makes the event even more meaningful.”
The concert includes a video greeting from Ukrainian Ambassador Oksana Markarova, speaking on behalf of the people of her country. Allentown Symphony/Miller Symphony Hall Executive Director Al Jacobsen notes, “Ron and the Allentown Band approached us about co-presenting this concert and we were moved by the idea. As the atrocities in Ukraine continue, we will speak through music and raise funds to support those who need it most in this war.”
The performance features soloist Patricia Risley, mezzo-soprano, and a special appearance by The Bel Canto Youth Chorus of The Bach Choir of Bethlehem. Guest Conductor Johan de Meij will lead his Symphony # 4 Symphony of Songs, with movements that express both loss and hope. Opening the concert are two pieces by Ukrainian composer Mykola Lysenko, newly transcribed for band: Taras Bulba Overture and A Prayer for Ukraine. The chosen repertoire will also evoke feelings of optimism (A Plea for Ukraine by Ronald DeGranis), support and hope (A Tribute to Ukraine by Lawrence Kursar), introspection and resilience (Symphony No. 3, 6th Movement by Gustav Mahler), hope and victory (Symphony No. 5, 4th Movement by Ludwig van Beethoven) and the passion and spirit found in the Ukrainian National Anthem.
All net proceeds from the concert will go directly toward helping the people of Ukraine who continue to face enormous challenges and hardships. As always, the power of music to connect and inspire us will be shared by everyone who attends and supports this outreach to those in need.
For those wishing to make an extra donation to the effort, a donation through Ukraine’s official website is recommended: https://war.ukraine.ua/support-ukraine/
For Ukraine: A Concert of Remembrance and Hope
Sunday, August 20 at 3 pm
Miller Symphony Hall
23 N 6th Street, Allentown PA
610-432-6715
Tickets: MillerSymphonyHall.org $15 – $45Please note: The Allentown Symphony Orchestra will not appear during this performance.
