Weekend Guide, November 30 to December 2

It's only just begun, but the holiday festivities are in full swing! There's something for everyone this weekend, even those with four legs. Don't forget too, parking is free Downtown in the city on Saturdays and Sundays through the end of the year--so there is absolutely no excuse not to have a great time (and go shopping) in Easton this weekend...

 

Friday, November 30

Easton Area Public Library Holiday Book Sale: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Many of the books are in very good condition and include a wide variety of newly published editions and old classics. Prices range from 50 cents to $1. Enter at the 5th Street entrance, lower level. 515 Church St. 610-258-2917, ext. 307

Holiday Art Exhibition and Sale: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Oil paintings, oil pastels and wood sculpture including new paintings. Marta Whistler Gallery, 158-B Northampton St. 610-559-8464 or www.martawhistler.com

Line Dancing: 7 to 10:30 p.m. with a beginner lesson at 7:15 p.m. $5 for members, $6 for non-members. Tatamy Fire Company, 164 Bushkill St., Tatamy. 610-759-2786 or www.purecountrydancers.com

Sarah Ayers: 7 p.m. Followed by Video DJ Fly, from 11 p.m. to 2 a.m. Rivals Sports Bar & Nightclub, 5 Lehn's Court (just off Centre Square). 610-392-9710 or www.RivalsEaston.com

The Subtle Experience: 8 p.m. Valenca, 64 Centre Square. 610-923-5142 or www.valencaonthesquare.com

Zaire: 8 p.m. The Riegelsville Inn, 12 Delaware Road, Riegelsville. 610-749-0100 or www.riegelsvilleinn.com

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

The Barrel House Brothers: 10 p.m. Old timey jazz. Porters' Pub, 700 Northampton St. 610-250-6561 or www.porterspubeaston.com

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

DJ Mike: 10 p.m.Riegelsville Tavern, 1274 Easton Road, Riegelsville. 610-510-3030 or www.riegelsvilletavern.com

Saturday, December 1

Breakfast with Santa: 9 a.m. to noon. Santa arrives at 9 a.m.! Tickets are $6, $4 for ages 6 to 12, and those under 6 are free. Christ United Methodist Church, Berwick and Seitz streets.

27th Annual International Allbreed and Household Pet Cat Show: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. More than 150 cats representing more than 50 breeds recognized by the TICA from as far as Texas, Ohio and Canada will compete for regional and international awards. Vendors on hand to help with your pets Christmas shopping. Admission is $6 for adults, $5 for children 6 to 12 and seniors over 60. Please bring a can of cat food to donate to the local shelter for $1 off admission. Charles Chrin Community Center, 4100 Green Pond Road, Palmer Township. 484-554-6621 or www.christmascitycatclub.com

Pennsylvania Water Rescue Christmas Tree Fundraiser Sale: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Proceeds go towards supporting local emergency rescue services. 444 N. 13th St. www.pawaterrescue.org

Easton Farmers' Market Winter Mart: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Book signing and meet & greet with Marissa McClellan, author of "Foods in Jars." Nurture Nature Center, 518 Northampton St. 610-253-4432 or www.nurturenaturecenter.org

Forgotten Felines Cat and Kitten Adoptions: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Petsmart, 3794 Easton-Nazareth Highway, Easton (Lower Nazareth). 610-737-4057

Easton Area Public Library Holiday Book Sale: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Half price day! Many of the books are in very good condition and include a wide variety of newly published editions and old classics. Enter at the 5th Street entrance, lower level. 515 Church St. 610-258-2917, ext. 307

Holiday Art Exhibition and Sale: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Oil paintings, oil pastels and wood sculpture including new paintings. Marta Whistler Gallery, 158-B Northampton St. 610-559-8464 or www.martawhistler.com

"We Believe" Campaign Meet and Greet: Noon to 3 p.m. Adopt or foster a special needs animal. Center for Animal Health and Welfare, 1165 Island Park Road, Easton (Williams Township). 610-252-7722

Pet Photos with Santa: 1 to 4 p.m. A 5x7 photo printed on-site of your pet with the real Santa A. Claus and Mrs. Clause, by  Elaine Zelker Photography. Additional copies may be ordered. All types of pets welcome. $15. Proceeds benefit Easton Main Street. Grand Eastonian Suites Hotel, 140 Northampton St. 610-330-9940

"Campfire and Hearthside - A Civil War Christmas": 2 p.m. Traces the five years of the war through the Christmas season, along with popular Christmas traditions of the era using sacred and secular music of the time and original letters and diary entries of Union and Confederate soldiers and the women they left behind. Admission is $10, $5 for children 6 to 12, ages 5 and under are free. The Sigal Museum, 342 Northampton St. 610-253-1222 www.sigalmuseum.org

"Wonderland" Opening Reception: 4 to 7 p.m. A holiday collection of handmade gifts, art, and curiosities. Mercantile Home, 140 Northampton St. 610-258-4046 or www.mercantilehome.com

Holiday Season Choir Concert: 8 p.m. Lafayette Concert Choir and Chamber Singers perform holiday sounds, including favorites, classical, and contemporary. Free, tickets required. Lafayette College, Williams Center for the Arts, 317 Hamilton St. 610-330-5009 or www.lafayette.edu

George Kilby Jr.: 8 p.m. The Riegelsville Inn, 12 Delaware Road, Riegelsville. 610-749-0100 or www.riegelsvilleinn.com

DJ Fly & DJ Mo Rada:  8 p.m., DJ Fly, DJ Mo Rada from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. Rivals Sports Bar & Nightclub, 5 Lehn's Court (just off Centre Square). 610-392-9710 or www.RivalsEaston.com

Robbie and Ronnie: 9 p.m.Riegelsville Tavern, 1274 Easton Road, Riegelsville. 610-510-3030 or www.riegelsvilletavern.com

Rocco John: 9 p.m. to midnight. The Lafayette Bar, 11 North 4th Street 610-252-0711
or www.lafayettebarjazz.com

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

Christopher Dean Blues Band: 10 p.m. Porters' Pub, 700 Northampton St. 610-250-6561 or www.porterspubeaston.com

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

 

Sunday, December 2

27th Annual International Allbreed and Household Pet Cat Show: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. More than 150 cats representing more than 50 breeds recognized by the TICA from as far as Texas, Ohio and Canada will compete for regional and international awards. Vendors on hand to help with your pets Christmas shopping. Admission is $6 for adults, $5 for children 6 to 12 and seniors over 60. Bring a can of cat food to donate to the local shelter for $1 off admission. Charles Chrin Community Center, 4100 Green Pond Road, Palmer Township. 484-554-6621 or www.christmascitycatclub.com

Pennsylvania Water Rescue Christmas Tree Fundraiser Sale: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Proceeds go towards supporting local emergency rescue services. 444 N. 13th St. www.pawaterrescue.org

Holiday Portrait Day: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The 5th annual campaign of Cancer Angels Peru, which has been collecting toys and money to provide children at INEN in Lima as a special surprise for Christmas. These children are often abandoned, as their parents cannot pay for their treatment, and they are completely left alone during the hard time of going through chemo and treatments. Donations are $5, $10 and $25. 7 North Third St.

Holiday Art Exhibition and Sale: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Oil paintings, oil pastels and wood sculpture including new paintings. Today is the last day of the sale! Marta Whistler Gallery, 158-B Northampton St. 610-559-8464 or www.martawhistler.com

"We Believe" Campaign Meet and Greet: Noon to 3 p.m. Adopt or foster a special needs animal. Center for Animal Health and Welfare, 1165 Island Park Road, Easton (Williams Township). 610-252-7722

A Concert for Christmas: 3 to 4 p.m. Christmas music by the Easton Musical Arts Chorus. Admission is $6 per person. St. Andrews Lutheran Church, 3900 Freemansburg Ave., Palmer Township. 610-759-8638

BC Combo: 5 p.m. Bella Luna, 3417 Sullivan Trail, Forks Township. 610-253-7458

Forks Township Tree Lighting: 7 p.m. Related community events run from 6 to 8 p.m., including the arrival of Santa Claus, an appearance by Ferrous, mascot of the Iron Pigs, and tours of the Historical Society's log cabin, plus music performances by local students. The event is free, but those who attend are asked to bring a donation of peanut butter, jelly (plastic jars only please) or canned soup to support ProJeCt of Easton's food pantry. Sponsored by The Kiwanis Club of Forks Township, National Penn Bank and Merchant’s Bank Forks Township Community Center, 500 Zucksville Road. For more details, click here.

Open Mic Hosted by Jim Stocker: 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. Riegelsville Tavern, 1274 Easton Road, Riegelsville. 610-510-3030 or www.riegelsvilletavern.com

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

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Tree Lighting, Live Nativity Among Forks Township Holiday Celebratons

Forks Township will hold its annual tree lighting ceremony on Sunday, Dec. 2 along with other related community entertaiments. The event runs from 6 to 8 p.m., with the actual tree lighting set to take place at 7 p.m.

Santa Claus will arrive on the hook and ladder truck . Music will be provided by the Forks Elementary School 4th Grade Chorus, led by music teacher Amy Gollub, the Easton Middle School Brass Ensemble, led by music teacher Donna Palmer and Officer Brooks Kranich, from the Forks Township Police, also a resident of Forks and graduate of Easton Area High School.

The Forks Historical Society will also open its historic log cabin to the public that evening.

Visitors are encouraged to visit the cabin which will feature a luminary path, a warm fire in the hearth, and decorations reminiscent of pioneer days.

“We are pleased to be open before and during the annual Tree Lighting event,” said Historical Society Vice President, Gloria Miller, “Many families attend the tree lighting, and we would like to give them a taste of what holiday celebrations may have been like many years ago in our little town.”

A 47-inch Vizio 3D LCD TV with Wi-Fi will be raffled off too, and there will be a 50/50 as well.

Funds benefit the the Kiwanis Club fund that provides donations to needy children and families.

Also, the mascot of the Iron Pigs, “Ferrous” will be present during the event.

The event is free, but the Kiwanis Club of Forks Township is asking those to attend to bring donations of peanut butter (any kind), jelly (plastic jars only) and canned soup (any kind) for the Peanut Butter ProJeCt, which collects for the Interfaith Food Pantry located in Downtown Easton and administered by ProJeCt of Easton.
Other sponsors of the holiday celebration include Palmer Nursery, National Penn Bank
and Merchants Bank

Forks Kiwanis Club, founded in 1999, meets on the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month for a one-hour breakfast meeting at the Merchants Bank building beginning at 7:30 a.m. An ongoing focus for Kiwanis members is community service and programs for needy children. Potential new members are welcome at any regular meeting.

For more membership information, please contact Kiwanis member Joe Attinello at the bank.

The holiday spirit continues next week too, when volunteers of all ages will conduct an outdoor live nativity at Arndt’s Lutheran Church on Saturday, Dec. 8 from 5 to 8 p.m. with live animals, music and narration.  The event will be held on the grounds of the church, at 1851 Arndt Road, at the corner near Bushkill Drive, in Forks.

The congregation will also offer light refreshments and light the grounds of the church with candle luminaria for the Advent event. 

Children will participate in the costumed nativity, and the stable area includes a burro, lambs and goats.  As the children pose in the stable, volunteers from the church read the Christmas story continuously while music plays in the background. 

A large hanging lighted star reminds the visitors of the Christmas story.  Visitors can linger at the stable, enjoy the animals, socialize and gather around a celebratory fire which is held in the Scout Troup 29 Outdoor Education area. 

At 6 p.m., a church service will be held in the Sanctuary of Arndt’s Lutheran Church; all are welcome.

In the case of severe inclement weather (exteme cold, hard rains, deep snow) the event will be cancelled.

For more information about the nativity, contact the church office at 610-253-3732, weekday mornings.

Job Skills Program Info Session Set for Monday

A free information session for the state's "JobTrak" program will be held on Monday, Dec. 3 from 1 to 3 p.m. in Alumni Hall at Northampton County Community College's  main campus at 3835 Green Pond Rd. in Bethlehem Township.

The session is designed to introduce potential participants in the JobTrak PA program to non-credit diploma courses that aid unemployed workers in obtaining skills training and improving their chances of employment.

Among the programs to be offered at NCCC are machinery repair, geothermal heat pumps installation, electrical construction, or air conditioning and refrigeration.

The programs are to be completed in a year or less. The cost of each study program runs about $5,000, but individuals can apply for tuition assistance to cover instructional fees through Pennsylvania CareerLink..

For more information or to register, call 610-332-6262.

For more information about JobTrak PA, which is a state-administered job skills program subsidized by a a $1 million grant from the U.S. Department of Labor and part of the Trade Adjustment Assistance Community College and Career Training program, visit www.jobtrakpa.com

2013 City Budget Introduced, Includes Parking Meter Rate Hike

By Christina Georgiou

If Easton's 2013 proposed budget is passed as introduced Wednesday evening, drivers visiting the city will be paying twice the amount they are now to park curbside.

After several discussions on the matter, it seems clear that officials have determined to move ahead with the plan to raise metered parking rates in the Downtown district of the city to $1 per hour from the current 50 cents.

Meters will also be in operation from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., and additionally from noon to 6 p.m. on Sundays, if council members approve the budget without changes, which seems likely. The extended hours are slightly less than what was originally proposed.

Other small changes were made in the final draft of the $31.2M budget proposal too, mostly to cover an approximately $161,000 gap left by increases in city sewer costs, which became apparent a few weeks ago.

But the job of shifting expenses was made easier by an increase in anticipated revenue from impact fees produced by 31 more table games at Bethlehem's Sands Casino.

"We're thankful we're at the table for the Sands table games," said Mayor Sal Panto at the council's Tuesday workshop meeting. "We weren't at the table for the slots, so we're only getting half of what we could have though."

With the additional anticipated revenue, the City of Easton expects to receive about $760,000 from the casino in 2013.

Also included in the budget are contributions to the city's Weed and Seed program ($55,500), the Miracle League baseball field in Palmer Township for handicapped children ($2,500), and to the Northampton County Historical and Genealogical Society-owned Bachmann Publick House ($10,000).

The contribution to the Miracle League field will give handicapped city children access to the field, city officials said.

"We don't do anything for menatally and physically handicapped children, and this gives us the opportunity to contribute to that," Panto said.

"It does provide a level of recreation that really does need a regional approach," said City Administrator Glenn Steckman.

The money going to the Bachmann tavern will be put towards repairing the pre-Revolutionary War era building a new roof, officials said, noting that Northampton County and the NCGHS will also contribute $10,000 each to the project.

Other than the parking changes, no one commented on the budget items.

However, the price hike in parking meters, along with the addition of Sunday hours of operation, met with more public opposition.

Marie Steltz, owner of Marie's Dance on Northampton Street, said the rate hike and extended hours has her concerned.

"Raising it to $1 may drive some business away," she said, noting that her clients mostly come in the evenings and then often go to a restaurant after classes. "They may decide to drive away (instead)."

City officials said the price is necessary and not out of line for the area, noting the increased price will be the same as the City of Bethlehem charges.

"I used to go to Downtown Bethlehem," Steltz said. "I don't any more."

Anthony Burks, a current giftshop owner in Bethlehem who is in the process of moving his business to South Second Street in Easton, said one of the reasons for his move is because Easton had a better parking situation.

"Parking meters are a huge hurt to businesses like mine," Burks said. "Do you know Bethlehem is circulating a petition to get all that changed? The meters are hurting business. From my experience...it's hurting more than it's helping. Maybe you'll consider letting that one free day stay."

"The last thing we want to do is hurt business in the city," Panto said, noting that parking revenue is set to go to both the Main Street and Ambassadors programs, which are designed to support businesses. "The concern I have is, the money has to come from someplace...I would love to take out meters, but your customers would have trouble parking."

The city budget and the measures that financially support it are set for a vote on Wednesday, Dec. 13, at the council's next regular meeting.

The Easton Home Rule Charter requires that a balanced budget be passed for the coming year by Dec. 15.

Many User Fees to Go Up for 2013 in City of Easton

By Christina Georgiou

While the City of Easton has managed to hold the line on raising property taxes for the coming year, some will find the cost of doing business in the city a little more expensive in 2013.

A number of user fees will likely be going up next year, officials said at the city budget hearing Tuesday evening.

But even with the upcoming hikes, the city won't be making money on the deal, only trying to recoup some of the costs associated with providing some city services, such as building inspections.

"With a lot of these fees, we either break even or lose money," said Easton Finance Director Chris Heagele. "
Ideally, user fees should...equal the (city) costs. Still, these activities are being subsidized."

Some fee costs were raised in 2009, and those are not being raised again, Heagele said. Most of the hikes are related to city planning and zoning, and pertain to commercial properties.

"We have not done a substantial review during my tenure," said Heagele, who has worked for the City of Easton since 2008. "It's been at least 10 years."

Included on the list are:

• Commercial/industrial buyer notification inspection fees, currently $125 to $250, will be $300 for the first 2,000 sq. feet, plus $50 for each additional 1,000 sq. feet, capped at $600
• Uniform construction code  building fees will be raised by $40. Residential mechanical construction code fees will go up $40, commercial mechanical code fees will now be a minimum of $200, with the ultimate fee based on the amount of work being done.
• Most plumbing inspection fees will be raised by 20 percent, from $40 to $50, though the cost of water heater inspections will go from $25 to $50.
• The cost for a permit to move household or commercial goods will jump from $10 to $25.
• The cost for a zoning hearing for a variance will jump from $50 to $200
• The cost of pushcart vendor's license will go from $200 to $225, with additional vehicles going from $40 apiece to $75
• A master plumber's license will be $100, up from $75 annually. A journeyman's license will be $75 annually, up from $50.
• Food establishment licenses will all be raised by $25 per year. Those that pay more than 14 days late will be subject to a $300 late fee.
• The initial application, license and inspection fee for tattoo parlors will jump from $250 to $500. Yearly inspection and license fees will go from $200 to $300.

A full list of the proposed fee schedule is available at the city clerk's office, on the sixth floor of Easton City Hall.

The introduction of the proposed changes is expected at this evening's city council meeting, with the council likely to vote on the matter in December, as part of the city's 2013 budget.

This Week in Easton, November 26 to 29

After an exciting Thanksgiving Day weekend, it's back to work for most of us, but that doesn't mean you still can't have some fun this week. Or, attend a local government meeting--with a number of budget and other important decisions on the table for the upcoming new year, now it the time to have your opinion  heard when it will count most...

Monday, November 26

Northampton County Gaming Revenue & Economic Redevelopment Authority meeting: 5:30 p.m. County Council Meeting Room/Room 3116, 3rd Floor, 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 Township Historical Society Meeting: 7 p.m. This month's program is "The Battle of Minisink" presented by author Peter Osborne. Easy parking and handicap accessible. All welcome. Faith Lutheran Church, 2012 Sullivan Trail, Forks Township. (Enter via Sullivan Trail or Zucksville Road.) For more information, contact Karl Miller at 610-253-1035.

Tuesday, November 27

Duplicate Bridge: 11:30 a.m. Open game. Temple Covenant of Peace, 1451 Northampton St. 610-253-2031

AARP Driver Safety Course: 1 to 5 p.m., with a second session 1 to 5 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 30. Participants must attend both session to be given a certificate of completion. $12 for members, $14 for non-members. In honor of veterans, this course is free this month for all veterans, spouses, children, grandchildren of veterans. Easton Public Library Palmer Branch, 1 Weller Place (off of Newburg Road), Palmer Township.

Northampton County 2013 Budget Hearing: 4 p.m. County Council Meeting Room/Room 3116, 3rd Floor,Northampton County Courthouse, 669 Washington St.

Easton City Council 2013 Budget Hearing: 6 p.m. Session will also include final discussion on parking meter rate hikes.  City Hall, city council chambers, sixth floor, 1 South Third St.


Palmer Adult Book Group: 6 to 7:30 p.m. Easton Public Library Palmer Branch, 1 Weller Place (off of Newburg Road), Palmer Township. 610-258-7492 or visit www.eastonpl.org/PalmerBranch.htm

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.

Line Dancing: 7 to 9:30 p.m. Beginner lesson at 7:15 p.m. $5 for members, $6 for non-members. Tatamy Fire Company, 164 Bushkill St., Tatamy. 610-759-2786 or www.purecountrydancers.com

Wednesday, November 28

AARP Driver Safety Refresher Course: 1 to 5 p.m. $12 for members, $14 for non-members. In honor of veterans, this course is free this month for all veterans, spouses, children, grandchildren of veterans. Easton Public Library Palmer Branch, 1 Weller Place (off of Newburg Road), Palmer Township.

Northampton County Industrial Development Authority meeting: 3 p.m. NCID Authority Office, Northampton County Courthouse, 669 Washington St. For more information, contact Alicia Karner, 610-559-3200 (option 3).

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

Easton Area Public Library's Holiday Book Sale Preview: 6 to 8 p.m. For Friends of the Library only. Membership forms are available at the Main Library and the Palmer and South Side Branches, as well as at www.eastonpl.org. Forms will not be available at the door.  Many of the books are in very good condition and include a wide variety of newly published editions and old classics. Prices range from 50 cents to $1. Enter at the Fifth Street entrance, lower level. 515 Church St. Call 610-258-2917, ext. 307 for more information.

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

Williams Township Zoning Hearing Board meeting: 7 p.m. Williams Township Municipal Building, 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

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

Thursday, November 29

Easton Area Public Library's Holiday Book Sale: 2 to 7 p.m. Many of the books are in very good condition and include a wide variety of newly published editions and old classics. Prices range from 50 cents to $1. Sale continues on Friday, Nov. 30, Saturday, Dec. 1 (half-price day) and on Monday, Dec. 3 (bag day). Enter at the Fifth Street entrance, lower level. 515 Church St. 610-258-2917, ext. 307

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

The Ernie Stadler Jazz Quartet: 8 to 11 p.m. Porters' Pub, 700 Northampton St. 610-250-6561 or www.porterspubeaston.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 blackandblueeaston.com

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

"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!

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!

EPD Looking for Car, Suspects Involved in Homicide Case

The Easton Police Department says the suspects in a shooting
that took place in Southside Friday evening were traveling in
a black or dark-colored Honda Odyssey similiar to the one pictured

A black or dark colored Honda Oddyssey is likely to have been used as a getaway vehicle for two men suspected of shooting and killing Ervin Holton, 43, in Easton's Southside district Friday evening, police say.

The vehicle was seen travelling south on Smith Avenue, and then parked on the 200 block of Madison Street, the Easton Police Department said in a press release.

They added they believe two suspects then walked south on St. John's Street to St. Joseph Street to where Holton was shot multiple times and killed, and returned to the car taking the same route back.

The first suspect is described as a tall, thin black male wearing a hooded sweatshirt or jacket and dark clothing. The second suspect is described as a shorter thin black male, also wearing dark clothing, including possibly a hooded sweatshirt or jacket.

Holton lived on the 100 block of South Ninth Street in the West Ward neighborhood of the city and was also  a DJ at Larry Holmes' restaurant.

The motive for Holton's killing is not known. Holmes told the Express-Times he is saddened and mystified by the murder.

Northampton County Coroner Zachary Lysek confirmed Holton's identity and has ruled his death a homicide earlier today.

The Easton Police Department is asking anybody that was traveling in this area on Friday, November 23 between 5:30 and 5:50 p.m. that may have seen the suspects or the suspects' vehicle to contact EPD detectives at 610-759-2200. Tipsters can remain anonymous.

Peace Candle Lighting Draws a Crowd

By Christina Georgiou

Hundreds gathered in Centre Square Friday evening for Easton's annual Peace Candle Lighting ceremony and related seasonal events, including an appearance by Santa Claus.

Easton historian and centarian Jane Moyer was awarded the Gretchen Wrenshaw Award, which is granted each year to honor community service.

Centarian Jane Moyer received the
Gretchen Wrenshaw Award.

Mayor Sal Panto praised Moyer's life long commitment to the city, noting, "She's put in nearly 100 years of community service too."

"People say Easton’s nothing good anymore,” Moyer said. "But it’s here. We’re full of history."

The privilege of being the Imperial Illuminator--or the person who gets to pull the switch and light the Peace Candle for the first time of the holiday season--was won for a high bid of $280 by Tom Sestak.




Cindy Lytle, second from right, pulls the switch to light the
Easton Peace Candle for the first time of the season, while
her friends, left, and Easton Holiday Committee Chair Sandra
O'Brien-Werner, right, watch.

 But Sestak chose to bequeath the honor on his girlfriend, Cindy Lytle, who pulled the switch with three friends close at hand, to a cheer from the crowd.

As the candle glowed, Panto quipped, "It works. Our city electrician has a job for another year."

In addition to the award and lighting ceremonies, a number of other events and attractions amused the crowd, including performances by Easton Area High School Brass Ensemble, Uptown String Band and TubaChristmas.

An ice sculpting demonstration was sponsored by Velenca restaurant, a petting zoo and the opportunity to explore Easton Public Works heavy equipment and truck amused children, and Cops 'n Kids, sponsored by Just Around the Corner gallery, and gave out popcorn and small toys to children.

Children also decorated a Christmas tree on the Centre Square with ornaments they made at the COPS 'n Kids Reading Room, with the assistance of the Cops 'n' Kids volunteers and the Easton Area High School Red Rovers Basketball Team and Coach Hutnik. Pine cone bird feeders made in the Art in the Alley, an activity provided by the Easton Police Department, were also hung "as a gift to the birds of nature."

A volunteer helps a
child hang a decoration at
the Peace Candle Lighting
Friday evening.
(Photo contributed
by the Easton COPS 'n Kids
Reading Room.)

"We hope that residents will not only appreciate the beauty of the Peace Candle, but also the handiwork of the children who regularly visit the Reading Room to obtain free books on each visit as they come to know the joy of reading," said Judith Dickerson, director of the COPS 'n Kids of Easton reading room.



Retired Easton Police Detective Walt Howell and Patrolman Tim
Wagner give out toys to children



A young lady gets the chance to sit on Patrolman Carl Faulkner's motorcycle.





Scott Miernicki, with his son Wade, 9, sell
brownies and hot chocolate to benefit
College Hill's Cub Scout Pack 3.



Sue Ruggles, of St. John's Lutheran Church, helps children make seasonal crafts.



Southside Shooting Ruled a Homicide, Police Seek Suspects

A man was reportedly shot in Easton's Southside neighborhood Friday night and has died of his wounds.

Easton Police say they responded to a report of shots fired in the 100 block of West St. Joseph Street at approximately 5:41 p.m. and found the victim suffering from apparent gunshot wounds.

Northampton County Coroner Zachary Lysek was called to the scene; he has ruled the death to be homicide, Easton police said.

Easton Police, the Northampton County Coroner’s Office and the Northampton County DA’s Office are still investigating the shooting.

Little information is currently available due to the investigation, but police say two suspects were sighted fleeing west on St. Joseph Street towards St. John Street or possibly south through the parking lot of neighboring businesses, presumably the strip mall that houses Kings Market and other stores.

One suspect has been described as a tall, thin black male wearing dark clothing. The second suspect is described as a shorter black male wearing dark clothing.

Easton Police say they believe the victim knew the shooter(s), but have not released any speculation on a motive, due to the ongoing investigation.

Anyone with any information is asked to call Easton Detectives at 610-250-6637 or 610-759-2200.

Easton Police Seek Information Related to Stabbing

Joaquin Martinez-Perez, 39, was stabbed Thursday night, Easton Police report.

Police found Martinez-Perez at the corner of North Warren and Willow streets at 10:18 p.m., bleeding from his head due to an apparent stab wound, they said.

His injuries do not appear to be life-threatening, and he was taken to a local hospital for treatment, they added.

Police say they believe the incident was not a random act, but instead was related to a domestic assault.

Their investigaton is continuing, and they have obtained a warrant to search Martinez-Perez's apartment in the 100 block on North Warren Street related to the incident.

No arrests have been made yet, but their investigation is still "very active," Easton police said.

Anyone with possible information regarding the incident should call Detective Rush at 610-250-6639.

Weekend Guide, November 23 to 25

It's Black Friday weekend, and that means a lot of people will be shoppping--why not stop Downtown and see all the things Easton has to offer in it's shops and galleries? We think you'll be happily surprised.  A great time to do that is during the Easton Peace Candle Lighting...We hope to see you there!

(Don't forget, parking is free in Downtown today, as well as every Saturday and Sunday now through the end of the year!)

 

 

Friday, November 23

Black Friday!

Easton Area High School First Annual Swimming & Diving Reunion: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Food and drink will be served. Cost is $20/person and $35/couple (kids free). All proceeds and/or donations will go toward the Foundation for Easton for a new natatorium. At EAHS, 25th Street and William Penn Highway, Palmer Township. Please contact Ed Black at 610-905-5433 for further information.

Studios on South 3rd Holiday Open House and Studio Tours: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. A collection of seven resident artists and artisan provide an exciting holiday weekend. 22 South Third St.

Holiday Art Exhibition and Sale: A ten-day sale kicks off today of Easton artist Marta Whistler's work--gallery is open each day. Oil paintings, oil pastels and wood sculpture including new paintings. Gallery is open every day during the sale. 610-559-8464 or www.martawhistler.com

Easton Peace Candle Lighting: 5 to 9 p.m. Performances by the Easton Area High School Brass Ensemble, EAHS Chamber Singer & String Ensemble, Easton Municipal Band, Uptown String Band, and Tuba Christmas. Photos with the real Santa A. Claus, ice sculpting competition, horse drawn carriage rides, crafters, kids rides and attractions, and more. Candle lighting ceremony takes place at 8 p.m. Centre Square, along with other surrounding locations. Click here for a full schedule of events.

Line Dancing: 7 to 10:30 p.m. with a beginner lesson at 7:15 p.m. $5 for members, $6 for non-members. Tatamy Fire Company, 164 Bushkill St., Tatamy. 610-759-2786 or www.purecountrydancers.com

The Mike and James Duo: 8 p.m. Valenca, 64 Centre Square. 610-923-5142 or www.valencaonthesquare.com

Richard Ray Farrell: 8 p.m. The Riegelsville Inn, 12 Delaware Road, Riegelsville. 610-749-0100 or www.riegelsvilleinn.com

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

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

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

Saturday, November 24

Shop Small Saturday: A national campaign to support holiday sales at small businesses. For a list of participating merchants in the Easton area of the American Express-sponsored program, click here. Or just visit your favorite local small business when you go shopping this weekend--you're sure to find some lovely unique items at a good price, and it's a great way to keep your money local.

Easton Farmers' Market Winter Mart: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Fresh, local organic produce, all-natural pastured meat, farm-fresh eggs, artisan cheese and bread, baked goods, prepared foods, more. Plus holiday arts mart featuring local crafters and exhibits. Begins this weekend, runs every Saturday through April 17, 2013. Nurture Nature Center, 518 Northampton St. 610-253-4432 www.eastonfarmersmarket.com or www.nurturenaturecenter.org

Studios on South 3rd Holiday Open House and Studio Tours: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. A collection of seven resident artists and artisan provide an exciting holiday weekend. 22 South Third St.

Funk Xpress: 7 to 10 p.m.  Phenom, 161 Northampton St. 610-258-9777

Erin McClelland: 8 p.m. Valenca, 64 Centre Square. 610-923-5142 or www.valencaonthesquare.com

Steve Guyger: 8 p.m. The Riegelsville Inn, 12 Delaware Road, Riegelsville. 610-749-0100 or www.riegelsvilleinn.com
  
Maria Woodford Band: 10 p.m. Porters' Pub, 700 Northampton St. 610-250-6561 or www.porterspubeaston.com

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

Kjamm: 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. Riegelsville Tavern, 1274 Easton Road, Riegelsville. 610-510-3030 or www.riegelsvilletavern.com

Sunday, November 25

Pancake and Sausage Breakfast: 8:30 a.m. to noon. All you can eat. $5 per person, children under 7 eat free. St. Francis Retreat House, 3918 Chipman Road, Easton.

Holiday Art and Photography Show: Noon to 3 p.m. Fine art and art craft items and photography by Howard McGinn. Part of the InVision Photo Festival, runs every Sunday through December 23.  Gallery at St. John's, 330 Ferry St.  610-258-6119 or www.stjohneaston.com/gallery.asp

Studios on South 3rd Holiday Open House and Studio Tours: 1 to 4 p.m. A collection of seven resident artists and artisan provide an exciting holiday weekend. 22 South Third St.

Open Mic Hosted by Jim Stocker: 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. Riegelsville Tavern, 1274 Easton Road, Riegelsville. 610-510-3030 or www.riegelsvilletavern.com

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

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

Scene in Easton: The 106th Annual Easton-P'burg Thanksgiving Day Game

By Christina Georgiou

The Easton Red Rovers trounced the Phillipsburg Stateliners today, skillfully winning the game, held at Lafayette College's Fisher Stadium, 35-18.

A crowd of  nearly 14,000 packed the stands for the sold-out game. Mild temperatures and a beautiful, sunny day only added to the festive mood.

Click on any photo for a better view!

 

Members of the Rover Nation. One asks, "Hey, P'burg, where is your banner?"



 

 



Oh, yeah, there's the P'burg banner...





We're assuming one of these folks has something to do with
Lafayette College and had a key to this building, instead of
climbing up there. ...



Once a Rover, always a Rover...

One of the benefits of being a water boy is a great view.

With a minute and a half left on the clock, most P'burg fans decided to try to beat the rush in the parking lot.





 

On the way back to EAHS, but first, a victory lap around the
circle on Centre Square!