Lehigh Valley InSite

Incubus

Last night, Kate and I went to see Incubus for the first-ever concert at the new Sands Bethlehem Event Center. (Kim was there too, but she was with the other big cheeses up in the VIP suites.) We stopped by McGrady’s beforehand to get dinner, fuel up and grab a few pints, then made the short trek over to the Sands property. We found it easiest to park in the deck and venture through the casino and the Shoppes to get in line for the show, along with hundreds of other fans.

Some of us from work got the chance to tour the venue a few weeks ago so we were already familiar with the layout and space. This came in handy when we were ducking and weaving through the massive crowd in order to get to a good spot. I hadn’t listened to Incubus much in the last few years, but I used to be a huge fan so I knew most of the songs they played last night. Here’s a short clip from when they performed “Pardon Me,” my all-time favorite Incubus song. It’s not the best quality, but you get the idea.

Arts Ovation Lunch

This past Thursday I had the pleasure of attending Allentown Arts Commission’s 24th annual Arts Ovation Awards Luncheon held at the Holiday Inn Center City Allentown. The arts hold a prominent place in Lehigh Valley culture and collectively make our job promoting the region that much easier.

I was glad to see the program insert listed all past recipients. This year’s honorees join an impressive “who’s-who” list in Lehigh Valley’s art world. The ballroom was packed with those happy to applaud the 2012 winners and their contributions. Entertained was provided by Dieruff High School’s Jazz Band and Civic Theatre.

Event Center VIP Suites

Some of my colleagues and I had the opportunity to tour the all new Sands® Bethlehem Event Center last week. The venue is sure to impress.

Without giving too much away, the color and décor leads to the upscale feel that I’m sure they were going after.

Sesame Street Live

First you close your eyes, second imagine a place, and third you are there!

Rosie and I attended 1-2-3 Imagine, Sesame Street Live at Stabler Arena this past Friday night.  We brought our friends, Collene and Misty, to share in the magic of using your imagination.

Jordan Parkway in the Sun

Winter has officially ended. Wait, did it ever really begin this year in Lehigh Valley? The region definitely had a very mild winter which was a blessing for some and a curse for others. The curse came to the ski areas located to the north and south of Lehigh Valley. Blue Mountain Ski Area in Palmerton was able to remain open through this past weekend which was pretty amazing and goes to show that you really don’t need the natural stuff to fall in order to ski, tube or board. Bear Creek Mountain Resort in Macungie was able to stay open to the week prior, which again made those winter sport enthusiasts happy campers.

I, on the other hand, do not really enjoy the cold winters. Sure, I love to see the snow fall, but I’d be happy doing that from my front bow window at home. I’m definitely excited that today is the first day of spring and temperatures this week in Lehigh Valley are going to be amazing.

Ann Elizabeth Schlegel

As I’ve mentioned in the past, an informal group of downtown Allentown workers get together for happy hour every “First Monday.” March’s gathering was held at Sangria, conveniently located on the first floor of our office building.

I could tell you about the complimentary hors d’ oeuvres served (which were delicious) or the drink specials (including sangria), but I’d rather talk about the two special invited guests, Ann Elizabeth Schlegel and Adam Motto.

Freddy Awards

Our president, Mike, asked (actually demanded) that we watch Most Valuable Players. This documentary follows Emmaus, Freedom and Parkland High School’s theatre departments through their individual theatre performances, culminating with their night at the annual Freddy Awards.

At first when I was told I had to watch this 90 minute documentary, I was none too thrilled. I think I actually yelled some expletive. I’d like to say once again (New Found Appreciation blog) that I was thoroughly wrong and continue to be impressed with the arts in our community. I actual told Mike thanks for making me watch it. This documentary is sure to pull on your heartstrings as it shows how much time, effort and dedication goes into these productions. From the students who pour their hearts and soul into their work, to the teachers who guide their every step and the parents who offer such unconditional support, it’s a testament to the all mighty resolve of a younger generation and what encouragement can accomplish.

The Muppets

The best gift of all is time. Obviously, you’re not going to give someone a gift of three hours. But then again, maybe you can. For the holidays this year I treated my mother to a trip to the movies in Lehigh Valley. I didn’t give her a gift card to the movies, but instead I picked her up and took her to the movies. We saw The Muppets at the Tilghman 8.

It was better than good, great even. But I’ve promised myself not to give out spoilers, so I’ll leave it at this. Jason Segel wrote a very good script and I’m happy that he was the one chosen to resurrect The Muppets. And there was a buzz about an upcoming movie when they did Bohemian Rhapsody and Beaker’s Ballad.

Chewie-and-Yoda

This past weekend, superheroes, stormtroopers, kids, adults and even a wookie invaded Lehigh Valley. Yes, it was the Great Allentown Comic Con. Two days full of fun for the child in your family as well as your inner child.

Saturday, I sat in on a few panels, the first of which was “Comic Greats and Legends.” Tom Smith, Niel Vokes and Bob Hall spoke of their work in the industry as well as the changes happening within it. My second panel of the day was the 501st Legion, a garrison of Stormtroopers who told us stories about, well, being stormtroopers. They also provided insight into how they make their armor and weaponry. So day one was wonderful, full of great stories and comics and trade paperbacks purchased. All done, right?

Musikfest Cafe

Last Saturday, my girlfriend and I took in Chuck Negron at the Musikfest Cafe. Who? I said Chuck Negron, one of the three lead singers for Three Dog Night, the other two being Danny Hutton and Cory Wells.

Negron, whose kid plays bass in the band, started the concert with “Black and White,” followed by other classic Three Dog Night songs. Our seats where in the back row of the VIP balcony and we stood for a great portion of the show. Negron himself stated that we are lucky to have a historic venue such as this in Lehigh Valley. He also took a shot at the occupy Wall Street movement, saying that back in the day they’d be working.