Cantelmi seeks city council seat

Tina Cantelmi, who some may recognize from her art and local nonprofit work, will be running for a spot on Bethlehem City Council in the May 20 primary.

A native of the Christmas City, Cantelmi said she hopes to broaden affordable housing options for residents, build up the local economy through support of its small businesses and meaningful investment, flex Bethlehem’s Tree City USA title and improve tourism services and public safety both on and off the roads.

Cantelmi graduated from Freedom High School, gaining experience over the years as a communications specialist and visual artist. She’s worked in editorial roles, including a position in New York City with Women’s Wear Daily trade journal.

In the 1990s, Cantelmi returned to Bethlehem to raise her family. For some time, she wrote a column that was published weekly in The Morning Call newspaper, wrote freelance feature pieces and worked in public relations.

Cantelmi handles communications and event planning for the Judith Adele Agentis Charitable Foundation; the Bethlehem nonprofit provides meals for families at hospice.

Cantelmi lives in Bethlehem with her husband, Robert Agentis. The two have three daughters and four grandchildren.

Amann running for city council

Justin Amann has announced his candidacy for Bethlehem City Council. A lifelong resident of the City of Bethlehem, Amann currently serves as the executive director of the foundation for the Bethlehem Area School District and the director of theatre at Freedom HS.

He is a 2011 graduate of Liberty HS and earned a bachelor’s degree in history from East Stroudsburg University and a Master of Arts degree in higher education administration from the University of Michigan.

Amann aims to celebrate and honor Bethlehem’s rich history, while also recognizing the incredible opportunities for the future of the City with sensible economic development.

“As a member of City Council, I want to ensure the City is excelling at the basics of city governance. At their core, I believe the people of Bethlehem want their schools to strong, their streets to be safe, and their roads to be properly maintained. In the coming months, I look forward to visiting my neighbors and learning about their needs and the vision they have for their city and its leaders.”

Justin Amann resides in Bethlehem with his wife Lauren and children, Hunter and Rory.

Fadem seeks county council seat

Theresa Fadem, current vice president of the Hellertown Borough Council, has announced her candidacy for Northampton County Council. With over 20 years of experience in community management, budget preparation and capital improvement planning, Fadem is poised to bring her leadership and expertise to the county level, working to create a more inclusive and equitable future for all residents.

Fadem’s deep commitment to her community is reflected in her extensive service on multiple local committees, including the Saucon Rail Trail Commission and the Hellertown Borough Climate Action Committee. Her work in these roles has focused on driving meaningful changes, from advancing climate action initiatives to ensuring access to affordable housing and improving local services for those in need.

Fadem’s candidacy is rooted in her belief that local government can be a powerful force for positive change. She is committed to listening to the needs of Northampton County residents and collaborating with fellow leaders to build a stronger, more sustainable future for everyone.

Zrinski seeks county executive office

Tara Zrinski, Northampton County controller, has announced her candidacy for Northampton County executive in 2025. This decision comes following County Executive Lamont McClure’s unexpected announcement that he will not seek another term.

Zrinski currently serves as Northampton County controller, where she has implemented forward-thinking initiatives to improve county operations. As a former Northampton County Council At-Large member, she had a proven track record of leadership and advocacy for sustainable development, public health and social equity. As a Commissioner, she was the chair of the Energy, Environment and Land Use Committee and the Economic Development Committee. She spearheaded the creation of an ad hoc committee to promote the production, manufacturing and processing of industrial hemp, as well as the Karst Geology Advisory Council to address concerns for the Bushkill Creek.

She holds a bachelor’s degree in philosophy and English with specialized honors from Drew University, and two master’s degrees, one in theological studies and the other in pastoral counseling, both from Moravian Theological Seminary, now Moravian University. She has taught philosophy as an adjunct Professor at Northampton County Community College, Lehigh County community College, and Lehigh and DeSales universities. She is a mother of three boys and currently lives in Bethlehem.