Makenzie Christman

1 week ago | lehighvalleynews.com | Makenzie Christman

BETHLEHEM, Pa. — The Administrative Office of Pennsylvania Courts is warning residents of a new text scam making rounds. A release from the AOPC says the scam involves text messages that "spoof" or mimic Pennsylvania Courts and/or Unified Judicial System website. The text warns of an "outstanding traffic ticket" that must be paid with a scam URL, later warning of "fictitious actions and penalties" if the ticket is not paid.

1 week ago | lehighvalleynews.com | Makenzie Christman

BETHLEHEM, Pa. — It's been a week since parties selected their candidates for the November election. So, political scientist Chris Borick and host Tom Shortell talk about the results and other notable events from this year's primary election. This year reported remarkably low voter turnout in the Lehigh Valley. Still, Borick noted Allentown Mayor Matt Tuerk's "tireless" campaigning, including biking and running trips to polling places on Election Day. "So that matters, right?" Borick said.

2 weeks ago | lehighvalleynews.com | Makenzie Christman

BETHLEHEM, Pa. — This week on Political Pulse, host Tom Shortell and political scientist Chris Borick switch things up. Or, should we say, host Chris Borick and politics reporter Tom Shortell flip the script. In this week's episode, Shortell takes the hot seat as the interviewee. Borick asks Shortell about the "packed primary" election in the Lehigh Valley, including notable races. The two start by talking about the mayoral races in Bethlehem and Allentown — what makes them interesting?

2 weeks ago | lehighvalleynews.com | Makenzie Christman

EASTON, Pa. — An Easton man has been charged in connection with a recent "chop shop" investigation. Angel Vidal, 49, was charged with felony counts related to owning, operating or conducting a chop shop, alteration or destruction of vehicle identification number, theft by unlawful taking and receiving stolen property and other charges. Angel Vidal remains in Northampton County Prison in lieu of $60,000 bail. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for May 27.

3 weeks ago | lehighvalleynews.com | Makenzie Christman

NORTH WHITEHALL TWP., Pa. — Lehigh Valley community colleges have gotten more state funding to expand their programs that let high school students enroll in their classes. Lehigh Carbon Community College and Northampton Community College are among the first handful of institutions to get Dual Credit Innovation Grants. The state Education Department established the funding program last year. It recently awarded $14 million in grants statewide to 15 institutions.