Lehigh Valley with Love Podcast Wins “Best Local Podcast” from Lehigh Valley Style Readers

Posted On April 19, 2025 By lvwithlove In Award, Blog /  

The Lehigh Valley with Love Podcast has been named Best Local Podcast by readers of Lehigh Valley Style in the publication’s 2025 “Best of the Lehigh Valley” awards — marking the podcast’s second win, with its first honor coming in 2020.

Launched in 2018, Lehigh Valley with Love has become a leading local podcast by doing what it does best — telling the stories of the Lehigh Valley’s people, places, and pulse. Whether it’s sitting down with community leaders, walking through neighborhoods and festivals, or simply chasing a good story with a camera in hand, the podcast continues to evolve as a trusted voice for the region.

“We try to tell the kinds of stories you don’t always hear elsewhere, or at least not in the same way.” said George Wacker, host and founder. “And over the past year especially, we’ve really leaned into getting out into the community, not just recording episodes, but filming them, walking with our guests, and showing people what the Lehigh Valley looks like right now. There’s so much out there.”

Deeper Dives with Off The Record

In 2024, the podcast introduced Off The Record, a subseries co-hosted by Northampton County Commissioner Jeff Warren. It brings a more serious tone to discussions around mental health, incarceration and reentry, and regional development — without losing the podcast’s grounded, conversational feel.

Episodes in the Off The Record series include:

Watch the full series on YouTube: Off The Record Playlist

Community, Culture & Visual Storytelling

In addition to audio interviews, many episodes now include full video walk-throughs — giving audiences a more immersive look at life across the region. From parks and food trucks to holiday drives and music festivals, recent episodes highlight the breadth and depth of the Lehigh Valley:

🎧 Watch or listen to the full archive:

Powered by the Community

The podcast’s continued growth and recognition wouldn’t be possible without its loyal audience, generous guests, and the support of local sponsors. A sincere thank-you to:

  • Lehigh Valley Health Network
  • WDIY
  • Wind Creek Event Center
  • Michael Bernadyn of RE/MAX Real Estate
  • Molly’s Irish Grille & Sports Pub
  • Banko Beverage Company

Interested in being on the show, or becoming a sponsor?
📧 Email info@lehighvalleywithlovemedia.com
🌐 Visit www.lvwithlove.com

 

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Tumor Baby by Kat Aldrich at SteelStacks on April 12

Posted On April 10, 2025 By lvwithlove In /  
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Guests:

🎤 In this episode of the Lehigh Valley with Love Podcast, host George Wacker sits down with comedian, writer, and performer Kathleen Aldrich, whose brand-new one-woman show Tumor Baby premieres April 12 at SteelStacks in Bethlehem.

We talk about how Kathleen got her start in the Lehigh Valley comedy scene over a decade ago, what it was like turning a real-life medical emergency into a heartfelt (and hilarious) show, and how Tumor Baby blends storytelling, vulnerability, and humor into something totally unique. From sketch comedy with Pigeon City to personal pieces in Dear Diary, Kathleen’s journey is as inspiring as it is funny.

You’ll also get a behind-the-scenes look at how the show came together—from handwritten journal entries to Google Docs and years of performance experience—and why this isn’t stand-up, but something more intimate and impactful.

👉 Catch Tumor Baby on Saturday, April 12 at 7:30 PM at SteelStacks
🎟️ Tickets & info: www.steelstacks.org/event/16872/tumor-baby

Watch Episode

https://youtube.com/live/fX8dV3Tt3DI

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Thank you to our Partners!
WDIY

Lehigh Valley Health Network

Wind Creek Event Center

Michael Bernadyn of RE/MAX Real Estate

Molly’s Irish Grille & Sports Pub

Banko Beverage Company

🧠 Episode Recap

Kathleen Aldrich and the Comedy of Crisis in TUMOR BABY

“I’ve been talking about doing a one-woman show since 2014.”

For comedian and writer Kathleen Aldrich, Tumor Baby isn’t just a show—it’s a culmination of more than a decade of finding her voice in the Lehigh Valley comedy scene. What started as strange abdominal pressure and a reluctant trip to the ER turned into a 10-pound tumor and, eventually, the foundation for a deeply personal, unexpectedly hilarious one-woman show.

From Improvised Bits to Intimate Storytelling

Kathleen’s journey began in 2012 with improv classes at ArtsQuest, where she found her creative tribe and a passion for performance. Over the years, she honed her craft with local favorites like Dear Diary, Pigeon City Sketch, and Improvised Stand Up. Her work is rooted in real life—often uncomfortable, always honest—and Tumor Baby is no exception.

“It’s not stand-up,” she explains. “I’m a storyteller.”

Kathleen weaves her cancer diagnosis into a broader narrative—childhood memories, messy relationships, weird blog awards, and moments that are just too good not to share. It’s comedy that doesn’t flinch. And it’s all been years in the making.

The Writing Process (and a Lot of Google Docs)

So how do you write something like Tumor Baby? According to Kathleen, it all starts with pen and paper. She breaks down memories into moments, finds the funny in the pain, and then builds the show line by line.

“I write down the significant moment first,” she says. “Then I ask—how do I make this funny?”

With guidance and mentorship from fellow comic Alia Brown, Kathleen transformed those raw stories into a full-length show. It’s not just about a tumor—it’s about life, survival, and making people laugh in the face of the absurd.

A Decade of Comedy and One Big Stage

One of Kathleen’s proudest moments? A sketch she wrote for Pigeon City called Sex in Senior Living—a drag parody imagining the Sex and the City crew as Golden Girls. “The crowd just loved it,” she says. “That moment… it was electric.”

Now, with Tumor Baby, Kathleen steps into the spotlight solo. It’s vulnerable, funny, and full of heart—and it all happens live this weekend.

🎟️ Don’t Miss It
Catch Tumor Baby on Saturday, April 12 at 7:30 PM
📍 Bethlehem Visitor Center at SteelStacks
🎟️ Tickets & info: steelstacks.org

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Lehigh Valley Comic Author Ian Mondrick Explores Suburban Horror in STASH BOX

Posted On April 7, 2025 By lvwithlove In /  
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Guests:

In this episode of the Lehigh Valley with Love Podcast, host George Wacker sits down with Ian Mondrick, a comic author and Lehigh Valley native whose latest project, STASH BOX, is currently live on Kickstarter.

We talk about how Ian got started in comics, what goes into writing a horror book that’s equal parts terrifying and thoughtful, and how STASH BOX draws from both retro horror aesthetics and modern anxieties. Set in a quiet suburban home and spiraling into surreal terror, the book explores themes of identity, love, and transformation—wrapped in the gory fun of classic horror.

You’ll also hear about the behind-the-scenes process of comic creation, what makes Kickstarter such a powerful platform for indie creators, and why supporting projects like this matters.

👉 To learn more or support the campaign, visit: www.StashBoxComic.com

Watch Episode

https://youtu.be/lAQ-7BO0YcI

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Thank you to our Partners!
WDIY

Lehigh Valley Health Network

Wind Creek Event Center

Michael Bernadyn of RE/MAX Real Estate

Molly’s Irish Grille & Sports Pub

Banko Beverage Company

🧠 Episode Recap

Comic Author Ian Mondrick and the Dark Side of Suburbia in STASH BOX

“This book is for horror fans first and foremost.”

Ian Mondrick opens the conversation with a clear warning—STASH BOX is not for the faint of heart. It’s violent, strange, and deeply unsettling. But beneath all the gore is a surprisingly thoughtful exploration of young love, change, and the anxiety of growing up in a world that feels like it’s shifting under your feet.

That layered tension—between blood and meaning—is exactly what STASH BOX was built on.

From Script to Scare: Writing Comics from the Lehigh Valley

Ian shares how his journey into comics began in the Lehigh Valley and evolved into scripting indie horror books like Tomb of the Black Horse and now STASH BOX. He breaks down the mechanics of writing a comic—what goes into a script, how he collaborates with artists like Frederik Hornung, and why writing for comics is not like writing a novel.

“There’s a language to comics that you have to learn,” Ian says. “It’s not just writing dialogue—it’s pacing, paneling, page turns. You’re writing something someone else is going to draw, and you have to trust that relationship.”

The Horror of Transformation

At the center of STASH BOX are two characters—Harrison and Lou—caught in the kind of one-night suburban misadventure that goes from strange to full-on horrifying. Ian explains how the comic plays with body horror and psychedelic imagery to reflect the fear of growing up, losing control, and becoming something… else.

“It’s about transformation—physical and emotional,” he says. “And it’s not always pretty.”

The comic’s tone is inspired by classic EC Comics, Creepshow, and films like Videodrome and The Thing. But don’t expect a nostalgia piece—STASH BOX is modern in its themes, experimental in its presentation, and printed on retro newsprint to give it a haunting, vintage feel.

Kickstarter and the Power of Direct Support

Ian talks about why launching STASH BOX on Kickstarter was the right move—not just for funding, but for community.

“When someone backs a Kickstarter, they’re saying, ‘I believe in this idea,’” he says. “And for indie comics, that kind of support is everything.”

The campaign offers a variety of rewards: alternate covers, original art, mystery sketches, and even a chance to have your own comic cover drawn by artist Frederik Hornung. It’s not just a comic—it’s a piece of horror ephemera for collectors and fans.

Backing Creators, Supporting Local Voices

Though STASH BOX is set in a fictional suburban street, Ian admits that its quiet unease and layout were very much inspired by his own upbringing in the Lehigh Valley. That connection to place shows in the comic’s atmosphere—a mix of the familiar and the uncanny.

When asked why people should support this project, Ian puts it simply: “Because you’re helping stories like this exist.”

Final Takeaway

This episode isn’t just about a horror comic—it’s about storytelling, risk-taking, and the power of direct creative connection. With STASH BOX, Ian Mondrick is building something weird, thoughtful, and terrifying—and he’s doing it from the Lehigh Valley.

If you love horror, independent art, or just want to see something new, this is the kind of project worth backing.

👉 Back the comic or learn more at: www.StashBoxComic.com

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E-Bikes, Raves, FEAT, and Sokols: A Few of Our Favorite Things

Posted On March 25, 2025 By lvwithlove In /  
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Guests:

  • Jackie Bzura – Bicycle Motor Works
  • Megan Lysowski – FEAT (Fostering Equitable Access to Transportation)

In this episode of the Lehigh Valley with Love Podcast, host George Wacker talks with Jackie Bzura of Bicycle Motor Works and Megan Lysowski of FEAT—Fostering Equitable Access to Transportation. They discuss how a grassroots effort to provide e-bikes to those in need grew into a nonprofit with community partnerships, real impact, and a 90s-themed fundraiser to help fund their next set of bikes.

FEAT is a Bethlehem-based nonprofit providing electric bikes, safety training, and gear to people in the Lehigh Valley who need reliable, affordable transportation. The idea came together through Bicycle Motor Works and expanded with the support of Chris Briggs of Bethlehem eBike, who played a key role in bringing the initial team together and helping shape the program from the ground up. With leadership from community advocate Megan Lysowski, FEAT has grown into a fully active nonprofit.

EVENT PAGE: www.bicyclemotorworks.com/event-list

FEAT page: www.featpa.com/

Watch Episode

https://youtu.be/CpIFveEnMTY

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Thank you to our Partners!
WDIY

Lehigh Valley Health Network

Wind Creek Event Center

Michael Bernadyn of RE/MAX Real Estate

Molly’s Irish Grille & Sports Pub

Banko Beverage Company

Episode Recap

Pedaling for Change: How a Grassroots Effort Became a Community-Driven E-Bike Movement

Partnering with organizations like Café the Lodge and the Family Self-Sufficiency Program, FEAT identifies individuals who would benefit most from access to an e-bike. Using a one-to-one model—one person, one bike—they equip recipients with more than just wheels. Each person receives the tools and training they need to ride safely and confidently, including gear like locks, air pumps, and backpacks.

The organization officially became a nonprofit under the fiscal sponsorship of Humanitarian Social Innovations in early 2024. That milestone has allowed FEAT to grow its fundraising efforts and expand community outreach.

One of their first major fundraisers is happening on April 5: Rave Revival – Pedaling for Change, a 90s-themed dance party at Sokols in South Bethlehem. The event features DJ Brad Scott, glowsticks at the door, and plenty of nostalgia-fueled energy. Tickets are $15 at the door or online at bicyclemotorworks.com under the Events tab.

All proceeds will go directly toward placing another e-bike with someone in need, as identified by FEAT’s outreach partners. With the rising cost of transportation and growing demand for affordable, eco-friendly alternatives, FEAT is helping to bridge the gap—one bike at a time.

To learn more about FEAT or get involved, visit featpa.com.

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The Lehigh Valley Warehouse Episode

Posted On March 13, 2025 By lvwithlove In /  
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Guests:

  • Becky Bradley – Executive Director, Lehigh Valley Planning Commission
  • Susan Lawless – Supervisor, Hanover Township (Northampton County)

In this episode of Off the Record with Lehigh Valley With Love, hosts George Wacker and Northampton County Commissioner Jeff Warren dive into one of the most talked-about topics in the region: the Lehigh Valley warehouse boom. They’re joined by Becky Bradley, Executive Director of the Lehigh Valley Planning Commission, and Susan Lawless, a Supervisor in Hanover Township, Northampton County, to explore how warehouses became such a dominant force in our local economy, what the future holds, and how local governments can navigate the challenges that come with rapid industrial growth.

If you want to stay informed and have a say in the future of development in the Lehigh Valley, there are ways to get involved:

  1. Attend Township and City Meetings – Local government meetings are where zoning and development decisions are made.
  2. Join a Planning Commission or Zoning Board – Many townships seek community members to help guide policy.
  3. Take a Planning Course – The Lehigh Valley Planning Commission offers courses through the Lehigh Valley Government Academy (LVGA) to educate residents and officials on zoning, development, and planning.

📚 Learn more about LVGA courses: https://lvpc.org/lvga

Watch Episode

Watch: https://youtu.be/OGKN7OoMOy8

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Thank you to our Partners!
WDIY

Lehigh Valley Health Network

Wind Creek Event Center

Michael Bernadyn of RE/MAX Real Estate

Molly’s Irish Grille & Sports Pub

Banko Beverage Company

Episode Recap: The Lehigh Valley Warehouse Boom—Growth, Challenges, and the Future

How Did Warehouses Take Over the Lehigh Valley?

If you’ve driven through the Lehigh Valley recently, you’ve likely noticed a skyline of massive warehouse buildings appearing along major roadways. But why has this explosion in warehouse development happened, and what does it mean for the future of the region?

According to Becky Bradley, Executive Director of the Lehigh Valley Planning Commission (LVPC), the warehouse boom is not a coincidence—it’s the result of a perfect storm of economic conditions, geographic advantages, and shifting supply chains.

  • Since 2015, over 48 million square feet of warehouse space has been approved across the region.
  • The Lehigh Valley’s proximity to major metro areas like New York, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C. makes it a prime location for distribution centers.
  • Hurricane Sandy (2012) was a turning point, causing supply chains to shift inland after flooding devastated coastal infrastructure, pushing logistics hubs further west.
  • Pennsylvania’s tax structure and zoning laws make it more attractive for industrial development than neighboring states like New Jersey, where regulations are stricter.

“Our region is now competing with the Port of New York and New Jersey in terms of industrial footprint.” — Becky Bradley

The question now is: What’s next?

Warehouses Bring Jobs—But at What Cost?

The growth of the warehouse and logistics industry has created tens of thousands of jobs, making it one of the largest employment sectors in the Lehigh Valley.

  • Over 40,000 people work in warehouse and trucking jobs in the region.
  • This sector is now the second-largest employer, trailing only healthcare.
  • The average warehouse lease lasts just seven years, meaning businesses frequently change, affecting job stability.

On the surface, this seems like a positive economic boost. However, Susan Lawless, Supervisor of Hanover Township (Northampton County), warns that the benefits need to be weighed against the costs.

Some key challenges include:

  • Road and infrastructure damage: The influx of heavy trucks increases wear and tear on local roads, putting pressure on townships to cover repair costs.
  • Traffic congestion: Residents in warehouse-heavy areas have seen major increases in truck traffic, impacting local commutes and safety.
  • Municipal budget strain: While warehouses generate tax revenue, local governments must plan for long-term infrastructure maintenance, which is often more expensive than the revenue generated.

“Some townships love the tax revenue, but they won’t say it publicly.” — Becky Bradley

Zoning, Farmland, and the Fight for Smart Development

With warehouse developments expanding rapidly, many residents and officials are asking: How do we balance economic growth with preserving the Lehigh Valley’s character?

One major concern is farmland loss. The Lehigh Valley has a rich agricultural history, but as more farmland is sold for industrial development, that legacy is at risk.

  • 10% of the region’s land is currently protected as preserved farmland.
  • Both Lehigh and Northampton counties have farmland preservation programs, but funding is limited.
  • Some municipalities are revising zoning laws to slow down warehouse growth and protect open space.

For local governments like Hanover Township, the key is zoning and planning ahead. However, Pennsylvania’s zoning laws limit how much control townships actually have.

“If a local government has a use allowed in its zoning, you can’t really deny it.” — Becky Bradley

Susan Lawless emphasized that municipalities need to be proactive in revising ordinances if they want to guide development in a way that benefits residents.

“Development doesn’t happen in a vacuum. We have to think about how it fits into the fabric of our community.” — Susan Lawless

The Future of Warehouses in the Lehigh Valley: What Comes Next?

With the Lehigh Valley’s industrial footprint now rivaling the Port of New York and New Jersey, the warehouse boom is far from over. But what does the future hold?

  • Leases are short-term, meaning buildings could become vacant in a matter of years.
  • More companies are looking at automation, which could impact job stability.
  • Freight moving through the region is expected to grow from $60 billion to $100 billion per year by 2050.

To navigate these changes, local officials, businesses, and residents need to work together to ensure sustainable growth. That means investing in infrastructure, improving zoning laws, and exploring ways to diversify the economy beyond warehousing.

How You Can Get Involved in Local Planning

If you want to stay informed and have a say in the future of development in the Lehigh Valley, there are ways to get involved:

  1. Attend Township and City Meetings – Local government meetings are where zoning and development decisions are made.
  2. Join a Planning Commission or Zoning Board – Many townships seek community members to help guide policy.
  3. Take a Planning Course – The Lehigh Valley Planning Commission offers courses through the Lehigh Valley Government Academy (LVGA) to educate residents and officials on zoning, development, and planning.

📚 Learn more about LVGA courses: https://lvpc.org/lvga

 

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Susan Wild on Public Service, Politics, and the Future of the Lehigh Valley

Posted On March 2, 2025 By lvwithlove In /  1
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Guests:

  • Susan Wild – Former U.S. Congresswoman, Pennsylvania’s 7th Congressional District

In this episode of Off the Record with Lehigh Valley With Love, hosts George Wacker and Northampton County Commissioner Jeff Warren sit down with former U.S. Congresswoman Susan Wild to discuss her time in office, the current state of politics, and the future of the Lehigh Valley. From advocating for lower prescription drug prices to ensuring the Lehigh Valley gets the attention it deserves on the national stage, Susan shares insights from her career and what comes next.

Watch Episode

https://youtu.be/DAfVHJVY_PQ?si=uqXa167FCrF-SHAW
 

 

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Thank you to our Partners!
WDIY

Lehigh Valley Health Network

Wind Creek Event Center

Michael Bernadyn of RE/MAX Real Estate

Molly’s Irish Grille & Sports Pub

Banko Beverage Company

Episode Recap

Life After Congress & Future Plans

Susan Wild reflects on her six years representing Pennsylvania’s 7th Congressional District and shares how she’s still deeply involved in advocating for local organizations and causes. While she has not yet made a final decision about running for office again, she emphasizes the importance of supporting Democratic candidates who can challenge Ryan Mackenzie in the next election.

“I think it’s really important that somebody run on the Democratic side who can beat Ryan Mackenzie… If it’s not me, I will be getting behind whoever the strongest Democratic candidate is.”

Advocating for Community Resources

Wild discusses how the Lehigh Valley has historically been overshadowed by Philadelphia and Pittsburgh when it comes to securing federal funding. During her tenure, she made it a priority to ensure that the Lehigh Valley received its fair share of resources.

“We’re the third largest and fastest-growing region in Pennsylvania, and I made it my mission to bring millions of dollars back to the Lehigh Valley.”

She also highlights the critical need for continued support for local organizations, especially as political shifts at the national level could lead to funding challenges for nonprofits, education, and healthcare.

Lowering Prescription Drug Costs

One of Susan’s proudest accomplishments was her work on lowering the cost of prescription drugs, particularly insulin. She explains how she came to realize the severity of the issue through conversations with constituents and how it became a legislative priority.

“I made it my mission to push for reduced drug prices, and we finally made breakthroughs through the Inflation Reduction Act. Insulin costs have come down, and we’re continuing to negotiate lower prices for other life-saving medications.”

The Problem with Modern Politics

The conversation shifts to the broader political landscape, where Wild discusses how modern political figures are more focused on gaining attention than governing. She criticizes the influence of money in politics and how viral moments often dictate fundraising success.

“Some of the craziest things we’ve seen—like people suggesting we put Donald Trump on a $250 bill—are done for attention because they know it will bring in donations.”

She also highlights the challenges of being a moderate politician in today’s political climate, where bipartisan efforts often go unnoticed compared to the more extreme voices on both sides.

The Lehigh Valley’s Future

Looking ahead, Wild expresses optimism about the Lehigh Valley’s growth but warns about the challenges of urban sprawl and warehouse expansion. She stresses the importance of balancing economic development with responsible planning.

“We need to ensure that we don’t turn the Lehigh Valley into just another suburb of Philadelphia. Growth is great, but it has to be done in a way that maintains our region’s character.”

Passing the Torch to the Next Generation

As the discussion wraps up, Wild talks about the need for younger voices in politics and her desire to mentor future leaders.

“If I decide not to run, it will be because I believe in mentoring and passing the baton. We need more young people in politics, and we have to give them the support they need.”

She shares her vision of creating an initiative in the Lehigh Valley to educate and engage young people in public service, whether through running for office or getting involved in advocacy work.

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Reentry in the Lehigh Valley: Breaking Barriers & Building Second Chances

Posted On February 20, 2025 By lvwithlove In /  
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Guests:

  • Dr. Michael Pittaro – Director of Corrections, Northampton County
  • Jose Rivera – Community Engagement Coordinator, United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley
  • Attorney David D. Ritter – Criminal Defense Attorney, Kitay Law Offices

Reentry after incarceration is a process that affects all of us, whether we realize it or not. Did you know that 65% of people released from prison end up reoffending? Or that defendants who can’t afford bail often spend 90 to 180 days behind bars before their case is even resolved? These barriers make successful reintegration nearly impossible, but there are solutions—like expanding mental health and drug courts, addressing pre-trial detention challenges, and improving job opportunities for returning citizens.

In this episode of Lehigh Valley with Love, we dive deep into the realities of reentry with experts and those who have lived through the process. Our guests share their firsthand experiences and insights on what works, what doesn’t, and what needs to change.

Thank you to Dr. Joseph Roy for his invaluable help producing this episode!

Watch Episode

 

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Michael Bernadyn of RE/MAX Real Estate

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Blog: The Realities of Reentry – A Recap of the Podcast

Understanding Reentry
Reentry is the process by which formerly incarcerated individuals reintegrate into society after serving their time. While release from prison might seem like the end of a sentence, for many, it marks the beginning of another battle—finding employment, securing housing, and avoiding recidivism.

Jose Rivera, Community Engagement Coordinator at United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley, explains how reentry was once a non-existent term. Instead, individuals were labeled “ex-cons” or “felons,” limiting their opportunities. While the language has evolved, the systemic barriers remain overwhelming for many returning citizens.

The Challenges of Reentry
Dr. Michael Pittaro, Director of Corrections for Northampton County, highlights the recidivism rate of nearly 65% in the U.S., emphasizing that many individuals return to the same communities where they faced prior struggles. Without intervention, they encounter the same environments, influences, and hardships that led to their incarceration.

Attorney David Ritter sheds light on pre-trial detention and bail reform, explaining that individuals can spend 90 to 180 days in jail before their trial simply because they cannot afford bail. This extended detention causes job loss, housing instability, and financial hardship, making reintegration even more difficult after release.

Another major obstacle is the role of parole and probation officers. Some officers serve as mentors, helping individuals access resources, while others take a more punitive approach, increasing the likelihood of reoffending. Rivera stresses that a supportive parole officer can make all the difference in successful reentry.

Employment and Housing: Critical Factors in Reentry Success
Securing employment after incarceration is a major challenge. Dr. Pittaro explains how background checks and job applications with felony-related questions create barriers, despite Pennsylvania’s “Ban the Box” initiative. While this law prevents employers from immediately disqualifying applicants based on criminal history, employers still have access to background checks and often reject qualified applicants.

Housing is another pressing issue. Many landlords deny applications from formerly incarcerated individuals, making it difficult to secure stable living conditions. Even those who find employment struggle with rising housing costs and parole restrictions that limit where they can live. David Ritter emphasizes that parole conditions often require a stable address, but without accessible housing, securing parole itself becomes an obstacle.

Solutions That Are Making a Difference
Despite the challenges, several initiatives in the Lehigh Valley are making strides toward improving reentry outcomes:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): A tool used in reentry programs to help individuals recognize and change negative thought patterns.
The Reentry Coalition: A network of organizations collaborating to support individuals reentering society.
Specialty Courts (Drug Court & Mental Health Court): Programs aimed at rehabilitation rather than incarceration, diverting nonviolent offenders toward treatment-based solutions.
One-Stop Reentry Centers: Efforts are underway to establish centralized locations where individuals can access job training, mental health services, housing assistance, and legal aid in one place.
While these programs are promising, expanding housing access, providing employer incentives, and improving parole officer training remain key priorities in reducing recidivism.

Final Thoughts
Reentry is not just about the individual—it’s a community issue. When individuals successfully reintegrate, crime rates decrease, families remain intact, and communities grow stronger. However, employment barriers, housing restrictions, and punitive parole policies must be addressed to create long-term success.

This episode of Lehigh Valley with Love underscores the need for policy changes, stronger community support, and a shift in public perception—from punishment to rehabilitation.

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Exploring Zoellner Arts Center’s 2025 Season with Executive Director Mark Wilson

Posted On February 6, 2025 By lvwithlove In /  
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Guests:

  • Mark Wilson – Executive Director, Zoellner Arts Center

In this episode, we sit down with Mark Wilson, Executive Director of Zoellner Arts Center, to discuss the exciting lineup for the 2025 season. We kick things off with a deep dive into Kings Return, the acclaimed a cappella group known for their seamless blend of gospel, jazz, R&B, and classical music, set to perform on February 7. Mark also highlights the pre-show roundtable on mental health featuring Dr. Phillip A. Davis, emphasizing the importance of integrating meaningful discussions with artistic performances.

LV with Love Partners

We then explore other standout events in Zoellner’s season, including:

  • The Aluminum Show (February 22): A dynamic performance combining dance, visual theater, and humor.
  • Pascuala Ilabaca y Fauna (March 28): A Chilean ensemble bringing a fusion of traditional Latin American music with contemporary influences.
  • The Sound of (Black) Music (March 29): A reimagined take on the classic, infusing it with gospel, funk, and R&B elements.
  • Calpulli Mexican Dance Company (April 4): Presenting “Puebla: The Story of Cinco de Mayo” through vibrant dance and storytelling.
  • R.E.S.P.E.C.T. (April 6): A powerful tribute celebrating the music of Aretha Franklin.

Mark shares insights into Zoellner’s commitment to diverse programming, community engagement, and the vision for the arts center’s future in the Lehigh Valley. Whether you’re an arts enthusiast or new to the scene, this episode offers a comprehensive look at what’s in store for audiences this season.

Links

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Michael Bernadyn of RE/MAX Real Estate

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Mental Health in the Lehigh Valley: Stigma, Resources, and Hope

Posted On January 30, 2025 By lvwithlove In /  
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Guests:

  • Dr. Amy Lynn Saborsky – Licensed Psychologist, Lehigh Valley Center for Child & Family Development
  • Ronnie Nase – Director, Clubhouse of Lehigh County
  • Jacquelyn Otto, M.Ed., CAADC, LPC – Licensed Professional Counselor, OnTrak Counseling

In this episode of Lehigh Valley with Love, hosts George Wacker and Jeff Warren continue their mental health series, focusing on the resources, challenges, and stories shaping mental health in the Lehigh Valley. Joined by three local experts, they explore the importance of breaking the stigma surrounding therapy, the critical need for community resources, and how programs like the Clubhouse of Lehigh County provide hope and healing.

Links

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Episode Recap:

Breaking the Stigma

Jacquelyn Otto, a licensed professional counselor, discusses how the stigma surrounding therapy has shifted, particularly for younger generations. She explains how normalizing therapy and fostering open conversations are critical steps forward: “The more we talk about it, the more we chip away at the stigma.”

The Clubhouse Model

Ronnie Nase shares how the Clubhouse of Lehigh County uses peer-to-peer support to provide a sense of belonging for those with mental illness. “Our members own this space,” Ronnie says. “It’s their place to connect, build skills, and feel supported.”

Therapy for the Next Generation

Dr. Amy Saborsky highlights the growing number of children and young adults seeking therapy post-pandemic. “It’s amazing to see a 16-year-old introduce me as their therapist to their friends,” she shares. “This generation is embracing mental health in a way we’ve never seen before.”

Tailored Treatment

From addressing substance use disorders to offering specialized care for OCD and anxiety, the guests discuss how therapy must adapt to meet individual needs. Jacquelyn emphasizes the importance of flexibility: “There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to therapy.”

Looking Forward

As mental health awareness continues to grow, the guests emphasize the need for systemic change, better resources, and increased collaboration. “Tracking outcomes is critical,” Ronnie adds. “We need to show decision-makers the real impact of our work.”

If you or someone you know needs immediate help, you can call or text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988.
Visit 988lifeline.org for more resources and support.

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On The Jokes by Jo Podcast

Posted On December 23, 2024 By lvwithlove In Blog, Press Release /  

Recently, I had the opportunity to join Jo on the Jokes by Jo Show podcast, where we dove into the humor and heart of the Lehigh Valley. We talked about everything from running a local media company to what makes the Valley such a vibrant place to live and laugh.

The conversation was full of funny moments, genuine insights, and a lot of love for the local community. Being a guest on Jo’s show was an absolute blast, and I’m excited to share this collaboration with you!

🎧 Listen to the full episode here:
https://jokesbyjo.com/jokes-by-jo-show/joking-our-way-through-the-lehigh-valley-with-love

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Anthony Sierra Designs: Holiday Magic at Historic Hotel Bethlehem & Beyond

Posted On December 22, 2024 By lvwithlove In /  
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Thank you to our Partners!

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Wind Creek Event Center

Michael Bernadyn of RE/MAX Real Estate 

Molly’s Irish Grille & Sports Pub

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Kaleidoscope Collective: Local Artistry and Creativity in Bethlehem

Posted On December 20, 2024 By lvwithlove In /  
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Wind Creek Event Center

Michael Bernadyn of RE/MAX Real Estate 

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Gobble Up the Good: New Bethany’s Turkey Drive on November 22 AND Their New Pantry Launch

Posted On November 8, 2024 By lvwithlove In /  
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Michael Bernadyn of RE/MAX Real Estate 

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Conversations with Amy Jo Burns, Shelley Noble, and Meg Shaffer: A Preview of SOTA’s Author Events

Posted On October 8, 2024 By lvwithlove In /  
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Michael Bernadyn of RE/MAX Real Estate 

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For more information and tickets, visit sotapa.org/lwta.

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Cocktails & Collecting at the Allentown Art Museum (We Get a Tour)

Posted On September 21, 2024 By lvwithlove In /  
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Thank you to our Partners!

Lehigh Valley Health Network

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Wind Creek Event Center

Michael Bernadyn of RE/MAX Real Estate 

Molly’s Irish Grille & Sports Pub

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