— Jeff Ward, Lehigh Valley News Briefs
Anybody who’s proposed development in the City of Bethlehem for the past several years has dealt with Darlene Heller, the now-retired Director of Planning and Zoning.
Would-be developers may not have always heard what they wanted to hear, but Heller was always prepared, professional and patient.
The last item — being patient — is essential, particularly when people repeat themselves at meetings, “echo” earlier statements and often bring up things that are not under consideration. As director of planning and zoning in a developing city, Heller dealt with all the big plans that came up for review, and sat through untold hours in meetings. With patience.
That’s public service.
Heller also provided a voice of reason on the Lehigh Valley Planning Commission board, and though I dealt with her rarely, she returned my calls when I was a reporter. So, thank you!
Heller’s service to the city and region will be recognized by the Bethlehem Chamber of Commerce at its annual awards ceremony June 3.
Heller will receive the new Bethlehem Legacy Award.
Richard Anderson, president and chief executive of St. Luke’s University Health Network, will receive the Frank Marcon Award. Mrs. Anne Evans will receive the Star of Bethlehem Award, and Community Action Development Bethlehem will be honored with the Community Partner Award.
Plamen Ayvazov, known as Rocco, will receive the Downtown Vision Award. He is re-developing the old Boyd Theatre.
BSI Corporate Benefits will receive the Strategic Partner Award, and five organizations will be honored for reaching milestones:
— Akroyd Hardware, 70 years.
— Donegal Square, 40 years.
— Victory House, 40 years.
— Brownstone Design, 30 years.
— Lehigh Valley Style Magazine, 25 years.
For information, see this link.
The Bethlehem Chamber is part of the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce.
Lehigh Valley News Briefs 