Friday, August 31, 2012

Weekend Guide, Aug. 31 to Sept.2

Easton's most comprehensive guide to what's happening over the weekend, in the city and beyond. Published every Friday!

Happy Labor Day weekend! Reminder: Don't drink and drive. Not only is it dangerous, but PennDOT has announced that will be extra enforcement with the aim of catching those who drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs... 

Friday, August 31


Friday Night Dancing on the Odds: Waltz lesson, 7 to 8 p.m. Dancing, 8 to 10 p.m. $10 per person, benefits Third Street Alliance. 41 North Third St. 610-258-6271 or www.thirdstreetalliance.org

Live in the Square - The Billies: 7:30 p.m. “Feel good” low country groove from Lancaster. Presented by the Easton Main Street Initiative.  Centre Square. 610-330-9942 or www.EastonMainStreet.org

Karaoke with Nort: 9 p.m. Rip Van Winkle's Pub, 3700 Nicholas St., Palmer Township. 610-258-8873

Ellyot Ray & Hank Jones: 10 p.m. Porters' Pub, 700 Northampton St. 610-250-6561 or www.porterspubeaston.com

Rocking Horse: 10 p.m. Pearly Baker's Alehouse, 11 Centre Square. 610-253-9949 or www.pearlybakers.net

Saturday, September 1


Operation Connect: Noon to 8 p.m. Sponsored by the Greater Shiloh Church. Riverside Park amphitheatre, Larry Holmes Drive, just north of the free bridge.  For more inforation, call 610-252-5640 or go to www.greatershilohchurchpa.com

Texas Hold'em: 7 and 9 p.m. Free. La Pazza Bar, 1251 Ferry St. 610-515-0888 or www.lapazza.com
Dan DeChellis Trio: 9 p.m.The Lafayette Bar, 11 North 4th St. 610-252-0711 or www.lafayettebarjazz.com

New Pony: 10 p.m. This show is age-restricted--no minors. Pearly Baker's Alehouse, 11 Centre Square. 610-253-9949 or www.pearlybakers.net

Start Making Rent: 10 p.m. With Jon Braun, Jon Fadem and Nick Levinos. Porters' Pub, 700 Northampton St. 610-250-6561 or www.porterspubeaston.com

Sunday, September 2

Easton Community Spirit Day: 3 to 10 p.m. Main Street Cruisers at 4 p.m., The JoEs at 6:30 p.m., and Don Cunningham and Associates at 8 p.m. Fireworks! -- over the forks of the Delaware and Lehigh rivers at 10 p.m. Scott Park, just south of the free bridge on Larry Holmes Drive.

Save the Dates!


"Easton's Night of Laughs" comedy Show with the city's own Liz Russo has been rescheduled for Friday, September 21 at 8 p.m.. Riverside Park amphitheatre, Larry Holmes Drive, just north of the free bridge.

Riverside Festival of the Arts is set for Saturday, Sept. 22 and Sunday, June 23. More to follow on this site, or visit  www.eastonriversidefest.com


Are you planning an event? Did we miss something? Let us know! Email us.

Thursday, August 30, 2012

Benefit Golf Outings Planned for September


Three upcoming golf events, planned for the coming month, will benefit local deserving causes.

Blue Star Mothers Golf Tournament to Support Military Families




The Second Annual Blue Star Mothers Golf Tournament will be held on Saturday, Sept. 15, rain or shine.

Registration and lunch will run from 11:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m.

The event, which begins at 1 p.m. with a shotgun start, is a “Four Man Scramble” and prizes will be awarded for: Men's Longest Drive, Women's Longest Drive, Closest to the Pin, Pot of Gold as well as to First, Second and Third Place winners.

Enjoy a fun day of golfing at beautiful Whitetail Golf Course in Bath, PA and at the same time raise money for our service men and women who are fighting for our freedom. The money raised by this event will go towards the Blue Star Mothers' efforts to support our troops—shipping care packages, providing funds for the families of injured soldiers to travel, assisting veterans in financial crisis, sponsoring Christmas parties for the children of deployed military (complete with Santa and presents) holding welcome home parties for returning troops, and community outreach.

To register or more information, call 610-258-4363.

RMG Insurance 6th Annual Ladies Golf and Gourmet to Support State Theatre


The 6th Annual RMG Insurance Ladies Golf & Gourmet will take place on Thursday, Sept.
20 at the Club at Morgan Hill.

The outing benefits the non-profit State Theatre Center for the Arts in Easton, and the FREDDY Awards, which recognizes the achievements of local high school stage productions.
Ladies of all golfing levels are invited to participate. Nine holes of golf are followed by a gourmet dinner presented by Vintage Restaurant and Head Chef, Michael Pichetto.

Chef Pichetto will demonstrate the preparation of some of the many hors’ doeuvres our guests will enjoy. There will also be a mixology class as well as live entertainment. A silent and live auction are also featured.

This low-pressure, women-only event offers an invaluable networking opportunity and typically attracts more than 80 businesswomen from the Lehigh and Delaware Valleys.

For more information or to register, click here.

Greater Easton Open to Benefit City Neighborhood Groups

The Greater Easton Open (GEO) golf tournament will be held on Friday, Sept. 28, at the Riverview Country Club, beginning at 8 a.m.
To allow golfers of all abilities to compete together in a fun format, the event will be a 4-person scramble event, with a shot-gun start. This means that each 4-person team will hit a shot, the team will go to the best shot result at which point all 4 golfers will hit another shot from there until the ball is in the hole.

The GEO benefits four major neighborhood groups in Easton, and golfers will be entitled to a gift bag as well as a luncheon after the event featuring a hot lunch buffet and BBQ. Beer will also be provided at the luncheon, for which those not golfing but wishing to attend can also buy tickets. Additionally, there will be beverage carts available during play.

Registration discounts are available for early sign ups. For more information, call 917-549-5161 or email geo@eastonchna.org. To register or purchase GEO merchandise, click here.

Easton Community Spirit Day Set for Sunday

This year's Easton Community Spirit Day is set for this weekend, on Sunday, Sept. 2 from 3 to 10 p.m. in Scott Park.

Hosted by the Mayor's Office of Special Events (MOOSE), the day is being billed as a “Rockin’ and Rollin’ on the Waterfront.”

The Main Street Cruisers are set to take the stage at 4 p.m. with a high energy show featuring true to the original versions of many rock n' roll hits of the 50s and 60s. Lenny Longo, lead vocalist and guitarist of Bill Haley's Comets, is the celebrity guest performer of the group.

At 6:30 p.m., the joEs will entertain the crowd, performing more rock n’ roll. They have been delighting crowds for more than 18 years and have performed with legendary groups like Eddie Money, Three Dog Night, America, and the Turtles.

Finishing off the day's musical events and led by former Bethlehem Mayor and former Lehigh County Executive Don Cunningham, Don Cunningham and Associates will play a mix of rhythm and blues, along with rock too. Cunningham and Associates opened for legendary rock n' roller Chuck Berry at the State Theatre last year.

Community Spirit Day will culminate with a fireworks display by Garden State Fireworks over the forks of the Delaware and Lehigh rivers.

Last minute spaces are still available for food and beverage vendors, as well as community groups who would line to have a display or informational booth. For more information, please call the Mayor’s Office at 610-250-6610.

Tuesday, August 28, 2012

City Officials Say Container Garden Can Stay, with Modifications

By Christina Georgiou

A set of container gardens around a Downtown residential building that has recently become the center of controversy for area gardeners and nature lovers will not be required to be removed if the owners of some of the plants are willing to make minor modifications to the placement of the pots, Easton city officials say.

 
Laini Abraham's garden on Sitgreaves Street, pictured with
a petition on Change.org demanding that it be allowed to stay,
was not the target of Easton city code officials, who were
in fact addressing a complaint about another potted garden
around the corner on Church Street, which belongs to
Abraham's neighbors.
“We're rational people,” said Mayor Sal Panto said Monday. “There's got to be a way to do this.”

The whole controversy, though, may have arisen from a series of misunderstandings.

A petition on Change.org started by building resident Laini Abraham has garnered more than 550 signatures in less than a week, demanding that the city allow the urban gardens to stay after her landlord was verbally warned that some of the.potted plants violate city ordinances by blocking the sidewalk.

But Abraham's potted garden, located on Sitgreaves Street and pictured with the petition, was not the focus of the warning, both city officials and property owner Bill Barrel have confirmed.

The building, located at Church and Sitgreaves streets, is home to two sets of planting containers. One, belonging to resident Abraham and located on Sitgreaves Street, does not block the sidewalk and was not the focus of an informal verbal warning that sidewalks must be kept clear.

This is the container garden on Church Street that came to
Easton city code enforcement officers' attention last week,
after a man apparently complained to the city that he tripped
in the street in front of an oncoming car while walking around
the plants.
 The other set of potted plants, located on Church Street, belongs to two other residents of the building and blocks the narrow sidewalk of the alley street, technically a violation of city code. It was a recent complaint the city received from a person who claimed he was forced to walk in the street and tripped in front of an oncoming vehicle that brought the container garden to the city's codes office's attention, city officials say.

They added that the city tries to work with property owners to find an amicable solution before fines or penalties are assessed, and that property owners are always given time to address a problem before that happens.

No formal warning or letter has been issued by the city on the matter demanding the gardens' removal either.

Barrel says that he asked all the tenants to remove the gardens because he felt he couldn't tell some tenants to remove or modify their gardens and not others.

“As a building owner, it's a little more complicated for me,” he said. “I don't want to get into a hassle with the city. If there were a fine, I'd be the one to have to pay it.”

He said he understands both perspectives on the matter.

“Most people like (the gardens), but someone complained. And it is against the law,” Barrel said.

But he said he's happy to hear the city is willing to compromise on the matter.

“They just have got to give us a little time to do it,” he said.

An image that accompanied the petition in favor of
the gardens is not accurate when it comes to the legality of
dumpsters and weeds, both of which are also technically
 in violation of city sidewalk ordinances. However, situations
in the city's narrow alleyways are decided on a case-by-case
basis, and there is no formal permit for
a dumpster, city Planning Director Becky Bradley said.
Abraham said she's happy the city is willing to compromise, but feels the city is “backtracking to save face” and the law is arbitrary, given that dumpsters are sometimes block sidewalks when other placement space isn't available.

“I think it's crazy that that's the deal,” Abraham said. “People have been walking around those plants for three years with no problem... Dumpsters are exempted because they're considered necessary. But it would be good if gardens were considered necessary too.”
 
However, Easton Planning Director Becky Bradley said Abraham's statement about dumpsters being exempted is not entirely accurate.

“There is no formal permit for a dumpster,” she said by phone on Tuesday, adding that the placement of dumpsters is determined on a case-by-case basis when a new business is opened during the zoning hearing process.

She added that sometimes they are moved or placed by waste disposal companies without approval from the city. In the cases where someone complains or they are creating a nuisance, the city then assesses the situation and in some cases, the receptacle's removal or relocation are ordered when possible, Bradley said.

Waste removal is an essential service, she said, and planters can be easily rearranged to keep a walkway clear enough for pedestrian passage.

Though they block the sidewalk entirely,
it is unclear whether these waste receptacles like these
are allowable, as the matter of placement is decided on a
case-by-case basis, depending on the property's use and
space limitations. Sometimes property owners or
waste haulers relocate receptacles without approval,
city officials said, but often unless there are complaints,
the matter often goes unaddressed.
The city considers most things on a case-by-case basis when it comes to alleyways, which are all largely very narrow and unconforming to official city code Bradley said, noting that they are also used for servicing buildings and businesses so main streets aren't clogged.

“Alleys are very—they're a little funky,” she said. “They're a little more democratic in terms of use.”

Bradley said because the alleys serve a variety of purposes and people, the city largely doesn't involve itself with technical code violations unless something is brought to officials' attention.

“There are a lot of bigger issues than a container garden we have to deal with,” she said, adding that issues like blighted buildings and habitually negligent landlords whose buildings constitute serious health and safety issues are much higher on her department's list of priorities.

Another city employee, who asked not to be identified because they are not authorized to speak with the press, confirmed that Easton tries to give more leeway in terms of code enforcement when it comes to city alleyways.

“You're talking about these tiny, little streets. The sidewalks aren't even three feet wide,” the employee said. “So we're stuck between a rock and a hard place. Everything is within reason. But (people) shouldn't have to walk in the street, because there are idiots (driving) out there.”

Panto said the city has no intention of fining Barrel if the planters on Church Street are rearranged to satisfy the need of pedestrians to pass without having to step into the street. He noted that the city hasn't even issued a formal written warning.

“The city has looked the other way for three years...The idea that we're out to fine the landlord $1,000 is incorrect,” Panto said of the maximum fine that could be assessed for non-compliance. “It doesn't happen for.slumlords, and it certainly isn't going to happen for planters. Common sense will prevail.”

-------

In response to the petition and a number of emails from residents regarding the matter, Mayor Sal Panto posted a response on his Facebook page late last week, the text of which appears below as written:

Thank you for signing the petition. I truly appreciate your voice in this matter and thank you for getting involved. As a clarification to the events that led to the visit by our code officer
who incidentally has also signed the petition, we did not go out looking for this infraction. We received a complaint about the pots. A pedestrian was walking down the alley and tripped trying to go around the pots and fell into the alley in front of a car. He was upset and reported the incident. We followed up. The code officer spoke to the landlord and was told that it was a violation, which it is. However, there are many violations that when they arise common sense is used rather than the letter of the law.

Alleys in our downtown have an interesting history and have come full circle. Initially homes were located on them and people lived on them. My father grew up on an alley in downtown called West Street. They played and important role in the layout of the city. As time grew on more and more people moved out of the downtown (mostly forced by urban “removal”) as more and more commercial activity moved in the center of the city. Today we see residential uses on the rise but we still have, and want a vibrant downtown.

This is where the collision occurs between tow distinct uses. Businesses need the alleys for deliveries and pickups and yet most of these business building footprints occupy the entire site thereby requiring deliveries on one lane streets blocking traffic and against the law and no place for things like garbage and recycling containers. So while ugly garbage containers are “accepted” because of need, planters are more of a voluntary addition. Don’t get me wrong, the more plants and flowers the better. So we have a code that is required because pedestrians need to have safe places to walk and yet some of our sidewalks are only 3 feet wide.

Our code and building department reviews all requests for businesses in the downtown and looks at ancillary services like where the garbage cans will be placed. We also review plans for outdoor seating which we want to encourage but there must be a 3 foot clearance for walkers and wheelchairs.

I will personally take a look at this particular situation. I have seen the pictures online and I believe the issue may be with the larger round planters which appear to block the entire width of the sidewalk whereas the rectangular ones appear to allow for some passage. One solution may be the use of long rectangular planters that still allow some room for pedestrian passage.

The matter has been brought to our attention and I will make sure that we find an amicable resolve. We certainly don’t want to curtail the greening of the city, we want to encourage it. If you have any other suggestions please do not hesitate to email me. Our minds are open.

Again thank you for your participation in the local government process.

Sal

Monday, August 27, 2012

This Week in Easton, August 27 to 30

"This Week in Easton" lists what's happening during the weekdays, from special events to who's playing to government meetings, all in one handy place. Not just in the City of Easton, but for the entire greater Easton area...Published every Monday!

Monday, August 27


Northampton County Gaming Revenue & Economic Redevelopment Authority meeting: 5:30 p.m. County Council Meeting Room, Third Floor/Room 3116, Northampton County Courthouse, 669 Washington St.

Palmer Township Shade Tree Commission meeting: 6:30 p.m. In the Palmer Library meeting room, at the Municipal Complex, 1 Weller Place (off of Newburg Road), Palmer Township.

Wilson Borough Council meeting: 7 p.m. 2040 Hay Terrace, Wilson Borough.

Forks Historical Society meeting: 7 p.m. This month's program is  "Messinger Mill," and SS. Messinger Farm Machinery. Easy parking and handicap accessible. Enter via Sullivan Trail or Zucksville Road. All welcome. Faith Lutheran Church, 2012 Sullivan Trail, Forks Township. For more information, contact Karl Miller at 610-253-1035.

Tuesday, August 28


Open Staffing Call: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For Maxim's 22, the soon-to-open new bistro and brasserie at the
Pomeroy Building. All positions. Interviews conducted at Sette Luna, 219 Ferry St.

Duplicate Bridge: 11:30 a.m. Open game. Temple Covenant of Peace, 1451 Northampton St.

Palmer Township Board of Supervisors meeting: 7 p.m. In the Palmer Library meeting room, at the Municipal Complex, 1 Weller Place (off of Newburg Road), Palmer Township.

Forks Township Planning Commission workshop: 7 p.m. Forks Township Municipal Complex, 1606 Sullivan Trail, Forks Township.

Wednesday, August 29


Texas Hold'em: 7 & 9 p.m. Free. La Pazza, 1251 Ferry St. 610-515-0888 or www.lapazza.com

Thursday, August 30


Palmer Adult Book Group: 6 to 7:30 p.m. Easton Public Library Palmer Branch, 1 Weller Place (off of Newburg Road), Palmer Township. www.eastonpl.org

Homebrew Meeting: 7 p.m. With Nikki from Rushing Duck Brewery. Black & Blue, 683 Walnut St. 610-438-3604 or www.blackandblueeaston.com

Bring (or wear) Your Own Vinyl night: 8 p.m. to midnight. DJs Ernie and/or Will. Black & Blue, 683 Walnut St. 610-438-3604 or www.blackandblueeaston.com

Karaoke: 8 p.m. to midnight. La Pazza, 1251 Ferry St. 610-515-0888 or www.lapazza.com

The Subtle Experience: 8 to 11 p.m.Porters' Pub, 700 Northampton St. 610-250-6561 or www.porterspubeaston.com

Marcel Ziul: 9:30 p.m. Pearly Bakers, 11 Centre Square. 610-253-9949 or www.pearlybakers.net

Is there a community or entertainment event you'd like to see here? Are you organizing something you'd like to have posted? Did we miss something? Email us!

Friday, August 24, 2012

Name of EPD Officer, Shot Suspect Officially Released

By Christina Georgiou

The Easton Police Department officially said today that Patrolman Eric Campbell, on the city police force since February 2006, is the officer who shot a man during an investigation into reports of two incidents of gunfire Tuesday evening in the city's Southside neighborhood.

Campbell remains on administrative leave pending the outcome of an internal police investigation of the suspect shooting, according to Capt. Scott Casterline.

The EPD additionally officially confirmed that Nelson Mayers, 25, of the the 600 block of West Wilkes-Barre St., was the man who was shot in the leg in the same block during that investigation. Mayers had earlier been identified as the man shot by witnesses and relatives.

Mayers was reportedly shot after he failed to stop on officers' commands and allegedly attempted to flee during the police investigation of gunfire in the vicinity. He was reportedly found to be unarmed when police took him into custody. At last report, he remains hospitalized for non-life threatening injuries.

Mayers was allegedly found to be in possession of an undisclosed amount of heroin after the incident and will be charged by summons, according to earlier news reports.

The two reports of shots fired Tuesday evening happened at about 9:40 p.m. for one shot fired in the 100 block of West St. Joseph Street, and about 20 minutes later, five or six shots were called in to emergency dispatchers on the 400 block of Williams Street, near Line Street, according to media reports.

The EPD further stated today that no additional information is currently being released, as the investigation is
ongoing.

Police are still investigating the two original reports of gunfire and request that anyone with information call Lt.Matthew Gerould at 610-250-6634.

Updated to add image, minor background details at 3:39 p.m.

Weekend Guide, August 24 to 26

Easton's most comprehensive guide to what's happening over the weekend, in the city and beyond. Published every Friday!

Friday, August 24


Forks Township Movies in the Park - "Kung Fu Panda 2: The Kaboom of Doom": Movie begins at dusk. Rain date is Saturday, Aug. 25. Forks Township Amphitheater, Community Park.

Easton Movies in the Park - "Dolphin Tale": Movie begins at dark. In case of inclement weather, the movie will be shown in the gym. Boys and Girls Club, 210 Jones Huston Way.

Karaoke with Nort: 9 p.m. Rip Van Winkle's Pub, 3700 Nicholas St., Palmer Township. 610-258-8873

Family Circus Trio: 10 p.m. Funk, rock, jam. Porters' Pub, 700 Northampton St. 610-250-6561 or www.porterspubeaston.com

Wig Party: 10 p.m. Pearly Baker's Alehouse, 11 Centre Square. 610-253-9949 or www.pearlybakers.net

Social Call: 10 p.m. Riverside Barr & Grill, Route 611, six miles north of Easton. 610-258-1008 or www.riversidebarr.com

Saturday, August 25


Yard Sale: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. "Collectibles, furniture, antiques, clothing, toys, more...home baked goodies." Rock Church, Sixth and Church streets.

"Huge" Yard Sale: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Christ Community Church, 210 Burke St.
Cardboard Raft Race:  Cardboard, tape, paint, caulk, rope, and some screws to hold it all together are permitted. Styrofoam, wood, cork, etc. (anything that floats on its own) is not allowed. Your raft must carry at least one person across the finish line. Everyone must wear a life vest, one paddle per person. Entry fee benefits water rescue. Call for time and more information. Riverside Barr & Grill, Route 611, six miles north of Easton. 610-258-1008 or www.riversidebarr.com

Twin Rivers Dance Academy open house: 2 to 5 p.m. 45 N. Sitgreaves St. 610-252-8226 or www.twinriversdance.com

Texas Hold'em: 7 and 9 p.m. Free. La Pazza Bar, 1251 Ferry St. 610-515-0888 or www.lapazza.com

Adult Dance Party: 8 to 11 p.m. Music by King Henry & The Showmen. $10 per person. Charles Chrin Community Center, 4100 Green Pond Road, Palmer Township. 610-252-2098

Bill Bauer Band: 10 p.m. Pearly Baker's Alehouse, 11 Centre Square. 610-253-9949 or www.pearlybakers.net

Big Valley Bluegrass: 10 p.m. Porters' Pub, 700 Northampton St. 610-250-6561 or www.porterspubeaston.com

Sunday, August 26


Quoit Tournament: 2 p.m. Random partners, point system. Riverside Barr & Grill, Route 611, six miles north of Easton. 610-258-1008 or www.riversidebarr.com

Easton Municipal Band: 7 to 9 p.m. Meuser Park, Northampton and 23rd streets. http://wilsonborough.org/category/community

Are you planning an event? Did we miss something? Let us know! Email us.

Wednesday, August 22, 2012

Peace Candle Needs Replacement Earlier Than Expected

By Christina Georgiou

Donations being sought to cover $25,000 price tag.


The Easton Peace Candle, as erected in 2011.
 Easton needs a new Peace Candle earlier than expected, and $25,000 to cover the cost of that endeavor needs to be raised quickly, Mayor Sal Panto announced at a press conference held at city hall Tuesday afternoon.

“We need a new candle,” Panto told gathered members of the press. He added that while the price sounds high, it is $5,000 less than the current candle, constructed in 1990, cost.

The current Peace Candle was expected to last until 2014, but wear and tear, along with meeting current safety standards, mean that won't happen. While the steel framework is still sound, the seasonal structure's angle irons, marine plywood skin, wiring and flame need to be replaced this year, the mayor said.

“It lasts about 20 years, and that's about what this candle has lasted,” he said, adding that if the work is not done, the city won't be able to erect the iconic holiday season decoration around the Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument in Centre Square.

The candle has been an annual holiday fixture in the city since 1951, with the exception of a few years in the 1960s, after the original version of the decoration wore out. For a time, it was deemed too cost-prohibitive to replace it.

“In 1961, we had no candle...So they just hung streamers—it was the ugliest thing I've ever seen,” Panto said. “You may have been able to go in the '60s without a Peace Candle, but we can't go without a Peace Candle today. You would be hung from the bugler, and it wouldn't be very nice.”

The mayor said he expects the city will cover the cost of the new candle while donations are sought by the Easton Holiday Committee. It is planned that the committee will then pay the city back. The matter is to be put before city council in an upcoming meeting, he said.

“We really don't have that many people on the committee,” said Sandra O'Brien-Werner, who heads the committee and is also employed as the city's grant writer. She added that anyone who would like to join the Easton Holiday Committee is welcome to attend the group's meetings, held on the second Thursday of the month at 6 p.m. on the sixth floor of city hall.

To raise the necessary funds, the committee plans to sell “shares” of the new Peace Candle at $20 apiece and solicit tax-deductible donations, along with holding other fund raising events.

“It's really a donation,” Panto said of the plan to sell “stock” in the Peace Candle. “You don't get anything back, but you do get a nice certificate.”

The stock drive will begin the week after Labor Day, leaving only about eight weeks for the necessary funds to be raised by the holiday committee's goal date of November 1.

With the new candle's construction, some other changes are planned too.

The new Peace Candle will have off-white wax drippings, instead of the light blue ones seen for the last few decades.

“White candles have off-white wax, and that's what it will be,” Panto said.

Red lights, instead of white ones, will grace the evergreens at the candle's base, O'Brien-Werner said, adding that the original candle had red lights.


A postcard of the Peace
Candle as it appeared in the
late 1970s.
The city will take over footing the bill for the labor, maintenance and erection of the candle, at an estimated annual cost of $7,000 to $8,000, Panto said.

“It's a lot easier for the city to do it as part of the budget,” the mayor said.

In the past few years, the local iron workers' union had done the job on a volunteer basis. While city workers will also be responsible for constructing the new candle, the union will assist with the job too, Panto said.

The lighting ceremony festivities will be organized by the Easton Main Street Initiative from this year forward, Panto said. The Easton Holiday Committee will continue to choose the recipient of the Gretchen Wrenshaw Award for service and cover the cost of the Peace Candle ornaments.

The Peace Candle will have a dedicated website, www.peacecandle.org, which is planned to go live by week's end, O'Brien-Werner said, adding that the site will be able to take donations and sell stock certificates via Paypal.

Those wishing to donate via check, payable to “Easton Holiday Committee,” are still welcome to do so, she added.

Other planned fund raisers aimed at raising funds for the new Peace Candle are:

  • A costumed dance, set for Thursday, Sept. 27 from 7 to 10 p.m., featuring Inch and the Echo, to be held at the Third Street Alliance.

  • “Blaze the Trail,” set for Saturday, Sept. 29 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. “A very natural, gentle walk” that will take place on the Karl Stirner Arts Trail. Tickets will be $10 apiece or three for $25, and will include a raffle drawing for an iPad.

The committee's traditional fund raising efforts, aimed at covering the costs of the Gretchen Wrenshaw Award and the Peace Candle's ornaments, will also continue this year, O'Brien-Werner said. They are:

  • An eBay auction for “Grand Illuminator”--that is, the right to pull the switch at the Peace Candle lighting ceremony on Black Friday evening, Nov. 23.

  • “Light a Night”--$30 pays for the electricity to light the candle for an evening, which can be dedicated to a loved one, living or deceased.

Panto said the $25,000 goal needs to be reached by Nov. 1.

“If the residents want the candle, they're going to have to contribute,” the mayor said.

Tuesday, August 21, 2012

Former Barney's Steak Shop to Remain Empty, Six Other Easton Zoning Applications Approved

By Christina Georgiou

 An application for a mini-grocery and sandwich shop at the former Barney's Steak Shop in Easton's Southside neighborhood was denied 4-1 at a Zoning Hearing Board meeting, while six other applications for a variety of uses at other locations in the city were unanimously approved Monday evening.

The proposed shop application, at 156 West Nesquehoning St., which was planned to be a small “grocery store with bread, milk, cold sandwiches and, if possible, hot sandwiches on a grill, done the proper way,” was opposed by most members of the board. Members said they felt the shop would disrupt the residential neighborhood by causing potential garbage and parking issues, and that there are better uses for the space, which has been vacant for a decade.

“I know Barney's was there before, but I see it as setting a precedent, putting a restaurant in a residential neighborhood,” said board member Michael Civitella.

“I think there are more appropriate kinds of businesses that could go in a residential neighborhood,” said board member Michael Brett, adding that there are other nearby areas that could host the business.

“I think when Barney was there, it was a neighborhood-type of place, and everyone walked back then,” said board member Pamela Panto. “I don't think it's appropriate.”

The board majority seemed to be responding to the thoughts of neighbors Michael and Gail Groman, who testified they had concerns about the impact such a business would have on residents.

“There is limited parking as it is right now,” said Michael Groman. “It will have ramifications.”

“It's going to be a lot of noise,” said Gail Groman, who also worried that deliveries in an alley behind the location would be difficult, since a tenant in the same building as the proposed shop also has parking in the space.

The lone dissenting vote came from zoning board chairman James Edinger.

“I guess I'm the only one who feels different,” Edinger said. “A convenience-type store doesn't (cause much nuisance). We had one in my neighborhood—90 percent of the traffic is foot traffic. In my opinion, it's a good fit.”

Sigal Museum Gets Permission for Permanent Banner


An application for a temporary banner by the Sigal Museum on Northampton Street in the city's Downtown was amended to be a permanent addition to the building's facade and unanimously approved by the board as well on Monday evening.

The museum, owned and operated by the Northampton County Historical and Genealogical Society, is being overlooked by city visitors who fail to notice the museum's name on the building, testified Barbara Kowitz, the museum's director.

“More often than not, people walk by and don't know that The Sigal is,” she said. “We feel the need to similarly advertise to other museums around the country.”

The banner, which will remain up “24/7, 52 weeks a year,” is planned to be approximately 3 feet wide and 22 1/2 feet high, and will be anchored by a framework bolted through the structural steel of the building, she testified.

The application, originally for temporary banner permission, was amended to be a permanent fixture after zoning hearing board solicitor Robert Nitchkey pointed out the board cannot give approval for a temporary banner without there being a fixed time limit on the installation.

Additionally, the application was amended for a smaller banner than the original request for a banner “up to 104 square feet” at the prior request of the Easton Historic District Commission.

Once the details of the request were defined, the board unanimously approved the banner, which Kowitz promised would be regularly replaced as wear and tear from the elements take their toll.

“It's difficult to identify the building as it is,” Edinger noted.

Bicycle Rental Business to Open in Hugh Moore Park


Zoning board members unanimously approved the application of Henry Meeker to run a bicycle rental business in Hugh Moore Park as well.

The proposal came before the board for a special exception because the site lies in the 500-year flood plain.

Meeker testified that the bikes, up to 40 in all, will be stored inside the Emrick Center when not in use. He plans to start with nine bicycles and expand as demand dictates, and will also lead bike tours in the park on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Friday through Sunday, April through October.

“But I would like to rent the bikes whenever demand dictates. If people would like to rent bikes in the winter, I'd like to make money,” Meeker said. “The goal is to have field trips, student groups, etcetera.”

None of the bikes will be motorized, he testified, and additional equipment to be stored in the Emrick Center will include helmets and a child trailer.

The business will be prohibited from operating in the event of a flood warning, and if it's so successful that he needs more than 40 bicycles, he will have to appear again before the board for further approval, conditions

Meeker seemed happy to accept.

“If I need more than 40 bikes, I think we'll have to work on getting a separate structure,” he said.

New Sports Bar Gets Parking Requirement Relief


Rivals sports bar and restaurant, planned for 5-7 Lehn's Court in the space formerly occupied by Club Beyond, was granted permission to expand from 36 to 102 seats and was additionally granted relief from the city's parking requirements by the zoning hearing board.

Matthew Cocheran and David Mandochick, both Downtown Easton residents and owner and manager respectively of the Pig Pen sports bar in Allentown, testified the expansion is necessary to the viability of the planned new business, and that providing additional parking for patrons is infeasible, given the location of the property, which they are conditionally under agreement to purchase.

The only opposition to their plan came from members of the Desai family, owners of Jack's Market at 222 Northampton St., who were recently denied their request to expand their business to include a beer distributorship at that location, partially on the basis of insufficient parking for the endeavor.

“Why would the city allow restaurant expansion when it won't allow expansion of a business in the 200 block?” asked Roshni Desai. “Even if there is a two-hour limit (at metered street parking), they'd be taking away parking from other businesses.”

However, board members did not seem to agree with the opinion.

“We have a parking deck, and we have other facilities for parking. It's not a fly-by-night outfit,” said Pamela Panto, adding that she has faith in the experience the owners of Rivals will bring to the new restaurant. “It's a good use of the building, and one more building not vacant and on our tax rolls.”

Clothing Consignment Shop to Open on 600 Block of Northampton Street


A application to open a thrift and consignment clothing shop at 637 Northampton St. was unanimously approved with little discussion as well at Monday's meeting.

Jennifer Jones testified the shop, planned in the location of a former nail salon, is planned to be open Tuesdays through Saturdays and being a consignment shop, will not take deliveries from large trucks nor
deliver large goods. She additionally said she plans to run the shop herself.

“Hopefully, as I grow, I'll need to hire someone,” Jones said.

She plans to officially open for business the first or second week of September.

Small Day Care, Garage Conversion Also Approved


In other business, the zoning hearing board also gave a nod to a small in-home day care, to care for no more than three children at 1313 Liberty St., as well as the conversion of a turn-of-the-century carriage house garage into a single-family residence on Parker Avenue on College Hill.

The day care will be run by Julieta Frey out of the home she shares with Dario Sanchez and their child, and will be subject to state license and registration requirements, the board said, adding that the small size of the operation is not expected to cause any disruption to neighbors, none of who appeared to testify at the hearing.

While some neighbors did express concern about possible drainage and run-off issues for the Parker Avenue project, board members noted that the plan would not change the footprint of the existing structure, which owner Mary Ann Dwyer and her husband hope to add a second story to and occupy themselves.

Photos added Wednesday, August 22 at 5:18 a.m.

Monday, August 20, 2012

This Week in Easton, August 20 to 23

"This Week in Easton" lists what's happening during the weekdays, from special events to who's playing to government meetings, all in one handy place. Not just in the City of Easton, but for the entire greater Easton area...Published every Monday!

Monday, August 20


Easton Zoning Hearing Board meeting: 6:30 p.m. City Hall, city council chambers, 6th floor, 1 South Third St.

Wilson Area School Board meeting: 7 p.m. William P. Tollinger Administration Building, 2040 Washington Blvd., Wilson Borough.

Williams Township Land Preservation Board meeting: 7 p.m. Williams Township Recreation Board meeting: 7 p.m. 655 Cider Press Road, Easton (Williams Township).

Tuesday, August 21


"Get to Know Your Urban Farm": 7 to 10 a.m., morning coffee at the farm. 5 to 8 p.m., evening tea and tapenades at the farm. Sponsored by the West Ward Neighborhood Partnership. Tour and learn about the farm, located behind the Easton Area Neighborhood Center at 901 Philadelphia Road. For more information, call 610-515-0891

Easton Redevelopment Authority Meeting: 5:30 p.m. City Hall, city council chambers, 6th floor, 1 South Third St.

Williams Township Garden Club Annual Picnic: 6 p.m. Bring a dish made from your garden and join the fun. St. John’s Church on Morgan Hill, 2720 Morgan Hill Road, Williams Township. Contact Carol McIntosh, 610-253-3155, for more information.

Easton City Council workshop meeting: 6 p.m. City Hall, city council chambers, 6th floor, 1 South Third St. CANCELLED

Jazz and Rock Jam: 6 to 8 p.m. Bring your guitar, sticks or bass and join the fun. With Curt Alvin-Green and Jay Jay, members of Larry Holmes and Marmalade Band. Champ's Corner, 228 West Canal St. 610-253-6905 or http://www.larryholmes.com/Champs_Corner.html

College Hill Neighborhood Association general meeting: 7 p.m. College Hill Presbyterian Church, 501 Brodhead St. www.eastonchna.org

Easton Area School Board meeting: 7:30 p.m. (Note the change in time from the usual 7 p.m.) Easton Area Education Center, 1801 Bushkill Drive, Easton (Forks Township).

Palmer Township Recreation Board meeting: 7:30 p.m. In the Palmer Library meeting room, at the Municipal Complex, 1 Weller Place (off of Newburg Road), Palmer Township.

Easton Movies in the Park - "Big Miracle": Movie begins at dark. Inspired by a true story, this movie tells the amazing tale of a small town news reporter and an animal-loving volunteer who are joined by world superpowers to save a family of majestic gray whales rapped by rapidly forming ice in the Arctic Circle. Free, weather permitting. Easton Area Neighborhood Center, 901 Philadelphia Road.

Wednesday, August 22


Meet the Easton Area High School Band: 6 to 8 p.m. Free, open to all. Cottingham Stadium, just off Northampton Street on North 12th Street.

Easton City Council regular meeting: 6 p.m. City Hall, city council chambers, 6th floor, 1 South Third St.

Forks First Annual Sounds of Summer Concert Series - Alias: 6:30 to 9 p.m. Rain date is Thursday. Forks Township Amphitheater, Community Park.

Williams Township Zoning Hearing Board meeting: 7 p.m. Williams Township Recreation Board meeting: 7 p.m. 655 Cider Press Road, Easton (Williams Township).

Texas Hold'em: 7 & 9 p.m. Free. La Pazza, 1251 Ferry St. 610-515-0888 or www.lapazza.com

Palmer Township Environmental Steering Committee meeting: 7:30 p.m. In the Palmer Library meeting room, at the Municipal Complex, 1 Weller Place (off of Newburg Road), Palmer Township.

Traditional Irish open jam session: 7:30 p.m. Porters' Pub, 700 Northampton St. 610-250-6561 or www.porterspubeaston.com

Easton Movies in the Park - "Big Miracle": Movie begins at dark. See Tuesday for movie description. Free, weather permitting. Nevin Park,  between Taylor Avenue and East Lafayette Street.

Thursday, August 23


Summer in the Square: Noon to 1 p.m. Starlight Players. Weather permitting. Southwest quadrant of Centre Square.

Karaoke with DJ Dave: 7 to 10 p.m. Champ's Corner, 228 West Canal St. 610-253-6905 or http://www.larryholmes.com/Champs_Corner.html

Easton Movies in the Park - "Big Miracle": Movie begins at dark. See Tuesday for movie description. Free, weather permitting. Ninth and Washington streets.

Mike Lorenz Trio: 8 to 11 p.m. Porters' Pub, 700 Northampton St. 610-250-6561 or www.porterspubeaston.com

Soofy and the Walrus: 10 p.m. Pearly Bakers, 11 Centre Square. 610-253-9949 or www.pearlybakers.net

Is there a community or entertainment event you'd like to see here? Are you organizing something you'd like to have posted? Did we miss something? Email us!

Friday, August 17, 2012

Weekend Guide, August 17 to 19

Easton's most comprehensive guide to what's happening over the weekend, in the city and beyond. Published every Friday!

Friday, August 17


Community Garden Potluck: 6 p.m. Bring a covered dish or beverage. All are welcome. Garden at South Fifth and Ferry streets.

Palmer Township Community Days: 6 p.m. to midnight. Anthony Zucchero & Peacekeeper, plays 6 to 7:30 p.m. Joyous, plays 8 p.m. to midnight. Plus, carnival rides and other attractions. Fairview Park, Fairview Avenue and Mine Lane Road, Palmer Township. http://palmertwp.com/comm_weekend/weekend2012/weekendSchedule.html

Friday Night Dancing on the Odds: Waltz lesson, 7 to 8 p.m. Dancing, 8 to 10 p.m. $10 per person, benefits Third Street Alliance. 41 North Third St. 610-258-6271 or www.thirdstreetalliance.org

Philadelphia Funk Authority: 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Free. Weather permitting. Riverside Park Amphitheatre, Riverside Park, Larry Holmes Drive, just north of the free bridge. www.eastonmainstreet.org
canceled
due to threat of severe weather

Gary Sinise & Lt. Dan Band: 7:30 p.m. Special guests Daniel Rodriguez and artist Scott LoBaido. Proceeds benefit a "smart home" for local hero Sgt. Adam Keys. Tickets: $75, $50, $35. State Theatre, 453 Northampton St. 610-252-3132 or www.statetheatre.org.

Karaoke with Nort: 9 p.m. Rip Van Winkle's Pub, 3700 Nicholas St., Palmer Township. 610-258-8873

Contagious Groove: 10 p.m. Pearly Baker's Alehouse, 11 Centre Square. 610-253-9949 or www.pearlybakers.net

LGBT Community Event: La Pazza Bar, 1251 Ferry St. 610-515-0888

Saturday, August 18


Wilson Borough Community-wide Yard Sale: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Meuser Park, , Northampton and 23rd streets. 610-258-6142 or www.wilsonborough.org

Palmer 5K Walk and Run: 9 a.m. Sponsored by the Business, Industrial & Professional Association of Palmer Township. All proceeds will go to the Miracle League of Northampton County. www.palmer5k.com

Tomato Fest: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Contests, live music, heirloom tomato seed exchange, and more. Tomato sauce contest at 10 a.m. Easton Farmers' Market, Centre Square. 610-330-9942 or www.eastonfarmersmarket.com

Artful Alliance Community Days: Noon to 3 p.m. Join us for a fun family day at Third Street Alliance as we present fun crafts, projects, and games for the whole family! The learning Center will be hosting an open house for interested families to come and see the program and meet the teachers. Each classroom will also be hosting a hands-on art project for kids and visitors to enjoy! Refreshments, games, and prizes! 41 North Third St. 610-258-6271 or www.thirdstreetalliance.org

Book Signing and Talk with Oberon Zell: Noon to 6 p.m. Have your book signed, sneak a picture with a real wizard! Metaphysion, 121 North Third St. 484-714-0626 or www.metaphysion.com

Battle of the Burgers: 1 to 4:30 p.m. Sample a slider from participating local restaurants and vote for the Best Burger in the Lehigh Valley, entertainment, photobooth. Benefits the Allentown Rescue Mission. $7 for adults; $3 for children 6 to 12; free for children 5 and under. Green Acres Outdoor Living, 3850 Newburg Road, Easton. 610-330-9600

Palmer Township Community Days: 5 p.m. to midnight. Inch & The Echos play 5 to 8 p.m., Jeff Bellfy plays 8 p.m. to midnight. K9 demonstration by the Palmer, Easton and Wilson Police Departments, 6:30 to 7:15 p.m. Fireworks at 10 p.m.  Plus, carnival rides and other attractions. Fairview Park, Fairview Avenue and Mine Lane Road, Palmer Township. http://palmertwp.com/comm_weekend/weekend2012/weekendSchedule.html

Texas Hold'em: 7 and 9 p.m. Free. La Pazza Bar, 1251 Ferry St. 610-515-0888 or www.lapazza.com

Go Trio + Viktorija Gecyte: 9 p.m.The Lafayette Bar, 11 North 4th St. 610-252-0711 or www.lafayettebarjazz.com

Jordan White: 9 p.m. The Pickled Egg, 2049 Northampton St. 610-258-1576

Family Junction: 10 p.m. Pearly Baker's Alehouse, 11 Centre Square. 610-253-9949 or www.pearlybakers.net

Kill the Broadcast: 10 p.m. Porters' Pub, 700 Northampton St. 610-250-6561 or www.porterspubeaston.com

Cover Story with Mook Stanton: Valenca, 62 Centre Square. 610-923-5142

Sunday, August 19


Book Signing and Talk with Oberon Zell: Noon to 6 p.m. Have your book signed, sneak a picture with a real wizard! Metaphysion, 121 North Third St. 484-714-0626 or www.metaphysion.com

Heritage Walk: 1:30 p.m. Presented by Charles Derr, Park Ranger Retired. Free. Elaine and Peter Emrick Technology Center at Hugh Moore Park, Lehigh Drive, Easton. 610-991-0503 or www.canals.org

Palmer Township Community Days: 3 to 10 p.m. "Family Night" for carnival rides, wristbands are $10. Easton Area High School Girls' Softball Team Steak Bake, 4 to 7:30 p.m. Plus, Balloons the Clown, That's the Way It Is Show Band, and Jay Allan - The Ultimate Elvis. Truth and Soul plays 7 to 10 p.m.  Fairview Park, Fairview Avenue and Mine Lane Road, Palmer Township. http://palmertwp.com/comm_weekend/weekend2012/weekendSchedule.html

Pete Petinelli Band: 7 to 9 p.m. Meuser Park, Northampton and 23rd streets. http://wilsonborough.org/category/community

Are you planning an event? Did we miss something? Let us know! Email us.

5000 Page Views, with More to Come

In the less than three months since its birth, The Easton Eccentric has been viewed more than 5,000 times--a number that feels pretty good for having only been advertised by word-of-mouth. It's clear that this blog, part of a future larger local news project, is something our readers like, not to mention want and need.

However, it's also becoming clear that to be most effective and move forward, The Easton Eccentric needs to get a little more organized, and add more of what readers have said they want. To that effect, while a bunch of you are still on vacation and enjoying the summer, we'll be doing just that. So things may seem a little light for the next week or two, but be assured we're busy. Some changes will be evident, like the addition of pages to make the site easier to navigate. Others will be behind the scenes, and you'll just have to wait and see what we have planned...

But it will be good, and it will only get better. I promise.

Meanwhile, count on the basics, like the Weekend Guide and This Week in Easton, continuing to happen on schedule, along with city council meeting coverage.

Also, please don't forget to tell your friends about us! And if there is something specific you'd like to see more of, or you have a great idea of something we should be doing that we're not, feel free to tell us in the comments or email us. We always want to know what you think--the People of Easton are the reason we exist, and we're nothing without you.

Thanks so much for reading The Easton Eccentric.

Christina Georgiou

Monday, August 13, 2012

This Week in Easton, August 13 to 16

"This Week in Easton" lists what's happening during the weekdays, from special events to who's playing to government meetings, all in one handy place. Not just in the City of Easton, but for the entire greater Easton area...Published every Monday morning!

Monday, August 13


Easton Historic District Commission meeting: 5:30 p.m. City Hall, sixth floor, 1 South Third St.

Wilson Borough Council meeting: 7 p.m. 2040 Hay Terrace, Wilson Borough.

Palmer Township Board of Supervisors meeting: 7 p.m. In the Palmer Library meeting room, at the Municipal Complex, 1 Weller Place (off of Newburg Road), Palmer Township.


Tuesday, August 14


Palmer Township Planning Commission meeting: 7 p.m. In the Palmer Library meeting room, at the Municipal Complex, 1 Weller Place (off of Newburg Road), Palmer Township.

Easton Recreation Board meeting: 7 p.m. City Hall, sixth floor, 1 South Third St.

Weyerbacher Imperial Pumpkin special pre-release: It won't be available in the Lehigh Valley for several weeks, but you can have it first here. Porters' Pub, 700 Northampton St. 610-250-6561 or http://www.porterspubeaston.com

Wednesday, August 15


Family YMCA of Easton School-Age Child Care Orientation: 5 to 7 p.m.Orientation for kindergarten through 8th grade. Learn about the Y's quality before and after school child care program. Registration is still open for the 2012/2013 school year. Family YMCA of Easton, 1225 W. Lafayette St. www.familyymca.org

Easton Redevelopment Authority meeting: 5:30 p.m. Third Floor, City Hall, One South Third St.

Easton Business Association Mixer: Begins 5:30 p.m. This joint mixer will provide a fun opportunity to learn about two of Easton's newest businesses. At 245 Northampton St., Forgotten Treasure Chest, refinished & re-purposed elegance. At 249 Northampton St. is The Game Gallery which offers classic video games, video game systems and collectible merchandise. Free to members--everyone can be a member by filling out a membership form. Free refreshments. www.easton-eba.org

Williams Township Elementary School building tours: 6 p.m. 2600 Morgan Hill Road, Williams Township. 

Wilson Borough Elementary School building tours: 6 p.m. 301 South 21st St., Wilson Borough.

Forks 1st Annual Sounds of Summer Concert Series - James Supra Band: 6:30 to 9 p.m. Blues. Rain date is Thursday. Free. Forks Township Amphitheater, Community Park.

Jam Night with Lady C & The Boys: 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Bella Luna, 3417 Sullivan Trail, Forks Township. 610-905-1558

Williams Township Planning Commission meeting: 7 p.m. 655 Cider Press Road, Williams Township.

Texas Hold'em: 7 & 9 p.m. Free. La Pazza, 1251 Ferry St. 610-515-0888 or www.lapazza.com

Palmer Township Movies in the Park - "A Dolphin's Tale": Movie begins at dusk. Event kicks off Palmer Township Community Days, which runs through Sunday, Aug. 19. Free popcorn and water, compliments of Charles Chrin. Fairview Park, Fairview Avenue and Mine Lane Road, Palmer Township. http://palmertwp.com/comm_weekend/weekend2012/weekendSchedule.html

Open Mic with Scott Harrington: 9:30 p.m.  Porters' Pub, 700 Northampton St. 610-250-6561 or www.porterspubeaston.com


Thursday, August 16


Summer in the Square - Uncle Pete: Noon to 1 p.m. Uncle Pete Tawny creates a band with his audience on improvised instruments like spoons, jug, washboards and washtub bass, ably assisted by percussionist Cat Burbage on everything but the kitchen sink. Join a parade lead by Uncle Pete on foot powered bass drum plus banjo,jug, harmonica and kazoo all at once while Cat plays snare drum and rub board plus the cymbals mounted on Pete’s drum and hat! Free. Weather permitting. Southwest corner of Centre Square.

Palmer Township Community Days: 6 to 10 p.m. Zumba Craze, 6 to 7 p.m. Meet the Phillie Phanatic, 7 to 8 p.m. Tracy Lee Band plays  7 to 10 p.m. "Family Night," wristband is $10 for all rides. Fairview Park, Fairview Avenue and Mine Lane Road, Palmer Township. http://palmertwp.com/comm_weekend/weekend2012/weekendSchedule.html

Northampton County Council meeting: 6:30 p.m. Agenda is posted the day before a scheduled meeting. County Council Meeting Room (Third Floor, Room 3116), Northampton County Courthouse, 669 Washington St.

Easton Parking Authority meeting: 7 p.m. City Hall, sixth floor, 1 South Third St.

Karaoke with DJ Dave: 7 to 10 p.m. Champ's Corner, 228 West Canal St. 610-253-6905 or http://www.larryholmes.com/Champs_Corner.html

Forks Township Board of Supervisors meeting: Workshop meeting, 6:30 p.m. Regular board meeting, 7:30 p.m. Supervisors' chambers in the Forks Township Municipal Complex, 1606 Sullivan Trail, Forks Township.

Karaoke: 8 p.m. to midnight. La Pazza, 1251 Ferry St. 610-515-0888 or lapazza.com

The Subtle Experience: 8 to 11 p.m. Porters' Pub, 700 Northampton St. 610-250-6561 or www.porterspubeaston.com

Is there a community or entertainment event you'd like to see here? Are you organizing something you'd like to have posted? Did we miss something? Email us!