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🌱 Patch AM: What does Bethlehem’s new Homeland Security partnership really allow police to do?

Also check out Gift Basket Bingo on the Bethlehem Patch calendar

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What's up Bethlehem! Let's start this morning right by getting caught up on what's going on around town. Keep reading to stay in the loop. ☀️

In today's newsletter:

  • What does Bethlehem's new Homeland Security partnership really allow police to do?
  • Thinking of playing Musikfest 2027? Here's when and how to apply
  • How are Bethlehem's 20 Flock cameras tracking cars—and your privacy?

Also on today's calendar: Gift Basket Bingo and 9 more events.

Today's riddle: What day of the year is trucker's day? 🤔 (Answer below!)

Weather forecast:

  • Friday: Partly sunny, with a high of 82 and low of 55 degrees.
  • Saturday: Nice with periods of sun, temps: high: 74, low: 61.
  • Sunday: Some rain and a thunderstorm, with a high of 68 and low of 59 degrees.

📰 News we're reading

• Despite ICE concerns, Bethlehem approves police partnership with Homeland Security on 'complex investigations' (mcall.com) — Bethlehem City Council has narrowly approved a partnership letting a city detective work with Homeland Security Investigations on complex crimes like human trafficking, cybercrime, and financial fraud. Supporters say the agreement brings crucial resources, while opponents worry about federal immigration enforcement and the deal's open-ended duration, though local leaders stress Bethlehem officers will not conduct immigration enforcement.
   

• Want to Play a Festival in 2027? Here Are 15 Accepting Artist Submissions Right Now (buzz-music.com) — Independent musicians in Bethlehem can already apply to perform at Musikfest 2027, with submissions open and no application fee through January 31, 2027. The guide also highlights 14 other major festivals worldwide, and urges artists to prepare strong materials and apply early to events that truly fit their genre, goals, and budget.
   

• How Flock cameras are used in Lehigh Valley, and why some want them banned (mcall.com subscription) — Bethlehem currently operates at least 20 Flock license plate reader cameras, which police say help solve serious crimes while critics warn of growing mass surveillance risks. Local activists, residents, and officials across the Lehigh Valley are debating transparency, audit access, and whether Pennsylvania should restrict or even ban the technology, as bipartisan privacy concerns gain traction statewide.
   

📸 Around Bethlehem

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💬 Chatter

What your neighbors are talking about on social media

  • Aerotek posted a job opening for Shipping/receiving Clerk in Bethlehem. Apply here.
  • Dunkin' posted a job opening for Team Member in Bethlehem. Apply here. You can search for other jobs near Bethlehem here.

🗞 Nearby News

Hellertown

  • Hellertown Remains in Talks with Lower Saucon Fire Rescue (sauconsource.com)
  • Your Old Bethlehem Road Drive Faces a Detour—Here's Where (mychesco.com)

Northampton

  • New Northampton learning center gives children the chance to play, learn and grow (homenewspa.com)
  • Northampton's Fun Sized Festival to discover scale, consideration and public area (fooshya.com)

Ok Bethlehem! So now you're in the loop about what's happening today. Thanks for reading, and see you in your inbox next time! Oh -- and if you like what you're reading, invite a friend to Patch AM!

-- The Patch AM Team

P.S. The answer to today's riddle: 10-4, good buddy! (Thank you Jean H. for sending it in!)
Got a good riddle for PatchAM? Submit it here!

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