Police Arrest Two in Early Morning Drug Bust

Two people were arrested early this morning at 679 Bushkill Street, on the
edge of Easton's West Ward, and charged with various drug-related offenses.
Google Maps image

 Two people were arrested and charged with various offenses following the execution of a narcotics search warrant just after 6 a.m. this morning at a residence in the 600 block of Bushkill Street, the Easton Police Department reports.

The home's residents were also under scrutiny in relation to a shooting incident that took place last month at the intersection of Seventh and Northampton streets, authorities said. One man was arrested and charged earlier this month in that incident, but police are still seeking the second suspect.

Barbara McNeil, 31, faces charges of possession of a controlled substance and delivery of heroin, along with charges of giving false identification to law enforcement from a prior warrant for her arrest. Police say she delivered the heroin to vice detectives on a previous date.

Sean Bookman, 24, was also arrested at the 679 Bushkill St. residence. Police said he will be charged via a summons for possession of a small amount of marijuana.

The raid was conducted after a several month long investigation into heroin dealing and Bloods gang activity at the residence, authorities said. It was conducted by the EPD Vice Unit. 

The investigation is ongoing, relating to the other suspected gang members associated with the residence, they added.

In addition to McNeil and Bookman, there were six minor children in the home when police raided it, ranging in age from 1 to 16 years, police said. They were reportedly turned over to other  family members.

One police officer reportedly sustained an unspecified injury due to a fall during the operation, police said. He was reportedly treated and released on the scene.

Police added that the home is set to be investigated by the city codes enforcement office for violations related to living conditions there, but did not say what those conditions might be.

Weekend Guide, August 30 to Sept 1

It may be the unofficial end of summer, but at least you get a three-day weekend out of the deal...

Friday, August 30

Dancing: 7 to 10 p.m. West Coast Swing lesson with Con Gallagher from 7 to 8 p.m., dancing with music by DJ Carol Coffinger from 8 to 10 p.m. $10 per person, benefits Third Street Alliance. 41 North Third St.  610-433-7804

Open Mic with Connie and Tommy: 7 to 10 p.m. Bella Luna, 3417 Sullivan Trail, Forks Township. 610-253-7458

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

End of Summer party: All evening, with a music video shoot for "In the Place" by Ruan G and E Dott at 10 p.m. Mothers Bar and Grille, 3 Lehn's Court. 610-253-1012

Live in the Square - Mike Mettalia and Midnight Shift: 7:30 p.m. Free, sponsored by the Easton Main Street Initiative. Centre Square.
 

James Supra Blues Band, suit & tie theme party: Band at 7:30 p.m., theme party at 10:30 p.m.  Rivals Sports Bar & Nightclub, 5 Lehns Court. 610-923-7625 or www.rivalseaston.com

LGBT Family Night Out: 8 to 11 p.m. La Pazza, 1251 Ferry St. 610-515-0888 or www.lapazza.com

Laurie Vosburg and 519 South: 8 p.m. The Riegelsville Inn, 12 Delaware Road, Riegelsville. 610-749-0100 or www.riegelsvilleinn.com

Patrick Poladian: 9 p.m. Two Rivers Brewing Company, 542 Northampton St. 610-829-1131 or www.tworiversbrewing.com

Schubert & Binder: 9 p.m. Colonial Pizza & Spaghetti House, 136-138 Spring Garden St. 610-252-3033 or www.colonialpizzapub.com

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

Echo Cellar Rockers: 10 p.m. Porters' Pub, 700 Northampton St. 610-250-6561 or www.porterspubeaston.com

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

DJ John McCluskey: 10 p.m. Dub's on Fifth, 402 South Fifth St., West Easton. 610-438-3827 or www.dubson5th.com

Saturday, August 31

Easton Farmers' Market: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The oldest continuous open-air in the United States. Centre Square. www.eastonfarmersmarket.com

Pop on the Hour: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Catch a few minutes of your favorite music, meet violinist and teacher Helen Martin. Bank Street Studio, 7 North Bank St. 610-252-2755 or www.bankstreetsturdio.org

Pocono Greyhound Adoption Meet and Greet: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sam's Club, Receiving Appointments, 3796 Easton-Nazareth Highway, Easton (Lower Nazareth). 570-856-0377 or www.poconogreyhound.com

Maddog Surrender, The Wolverines, The Dead Tricks, The Incited, Anti Citizen, Suckered In: Music begins at 6 p.m. Mothers Bar and Grille, 3 Lehn's Court. 610-253-1012

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

Mitch from 99 the Hawk, UFC 164, DJ Riske One: Mitch at 7 p.m., band at 10 p.m. followed by DJ  Rivals Sports Bar & Nightclub, 5 Lehns Court. 610-923-7625 or www.rivalseaston.com
 

The Large Flowerheads: 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. 60s and 70s rock. Free. Riverside Park, Larry Holmes Drive (just north of the free bridge).

Chuck Schaeffer with Joey D: 8 p.m. The Riegelsville Inn, 12 Delaware Road, Riegelsville. 610-749-0100 or www.riegelsvilleinn.com 

Funk Xpress: 9 p.m. Two Rivers Brewing Company, 542 Northampton St. 610-829-1131 or www.tworiversbrewing.com

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

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

Liz Nordstrom Band: 9 p.m. Widows Tavern, 200 Main St., Stockertown. 610-365-8890 or www.widowstavern.com

Tombstone Sunshine: 10 p.m. Playing favorites from Sheryl Crowe, Fleetwood Mac and others. Porters' Pub, 700 Northampton St. 610-250-6561 or www.porterspubeaston.com

The Big Wahu: 8 to 11 p.m. Caribbean and contemporary. Mesa Modern Mexican, 42 South Third St. 610-829-2101 or www.mesamexican.com

Redz Vision: 10 p.m. Dub's on Fifth, 402 South Fifth St., West Easton. 610-438-3827 or www.dubson5th.com

Sunday, September 1

DJ Mumbler & DJ Brad Scott: Noon to 4 p.m., during brunch. Valenca, 64-66 Centre Square. 610-923-5141 or www.valencarestauranteaston.com

Blues Jam with BC Combo: 5:30 p.m. Bella Luna, 3417 Sullivan Trail, Forks Township. 610-253-7458

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

Industry Night with DJ Jus Smith: 10 p.m.  Rivals Sports Bar & Nightclub, 5 Lehns Court. 610-923-7625 or www.rivalseaston.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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City Council Delays Vote on Million-Dollar Grant to GEDP

By Christina Georgiou

Easton City Council members decided to table a vote on a $1 million grant
to the Greater Easton Development Partnership that would enable the
private non-profit corporation to purchase the vacant Weller Center
building on Northampton Street without taking out a loan or mortgage.

 Easton City Council members decided to delay voting Wednesday evening on a resolution that would  grant the Greater Easton Development Partnership (GEDP) $1 million to fund the purchase of the Weller Center building at 325 Northampton St. in Downtown Easton.

The Weller building, which GEDP has agreed to purchase, is set to house a year-round, indoor, expanded version of the Easton Farmers' Market (EFM), as well as house the offices of GEDP and the programs the private non-profit corporation runs, including the Easton Main Street Initiative, the Easton Ambassadors, and the EFM. The Weller Center's offices would also be located on the second floor of the building for about a year, with the Weller foundation leasing back space for about a year, Weller representatives have said.

The grant, if the council votes in favor of it, would cover the entire purchase price of the vacant building, as well as some "soft costs" and preliminary construction funding, according to the resolution presented before the city council. The document indicates the selling price of the building has been agreed upon at $900,000.

The source of the grant to GEDP would be tax-exempt bonds issued by the City of Easton, the proposed resolution states.

While Gretchen Longenbach, who serves as both a city employee as its redevelopment authority director and as executive director for GEDP told city council the new farmers' market plan was a sound one, some board members said that while they support the new market, they were not convinced a grant from the city is a sound investment before having seen the non-profit's business plan and financial projections for the project.

Gretchen Longenbach, who serves as both the city's
redevelopment authority director and as executive director
for GEDP, talks about the benefits a proposed $1 million city
grant would have for the new Easton Public Market, a year-
round, expanded, indoor version of the Easton Farmers'
Market that would occupy the vacant Weller Center
building on Northampton Street. City Finance Director Chris
Heagele, right, did not provide any comment on the matter.

"We're giving one million dollars away," Councilman Roger Ruggles said. "I've got a problem with that...I've got nothing in front of me that shows me the potential of what this thing is going to return."

Mayor Sal Panto said that while a pro forma document has not been presented to the city for review by GEDP, he's confident the grant would be a sound investment.

"I'm under the impression that doing this reduces (GEDP) reliance on city funding," he said.

But city solicitor William Murphy said while that might be true, there's no guarantee of it or of the new "Easton Public Market" being financially successful.

"We as the city have no control over how GEDP conducts its affairs," he noted. "The conditions upon which (the million dollars) is given is that it is non-refundable."

The City of Easton's current annual contribution to GEDP is $375,000, much of which is used to fund the Main Street, Ambassadors, and current farmers' market.

Longenbach said that while the grant would ultimately be likely to reduce the amount of funding GEDP relies upon from the city, that wouldn't happen for at least a few years, until the new market starts to show a definite profit.

While GEDP is a non-profit corporation, the Weller venture would not be tax-exempt due to the fact the organization will be renting space to for-profit small businesses, Longenbach said. She added that the project not being tax-exempt means if GEDP were to have to resort to a traditional loan or mortgage situation to pay for the building, it would not only have to start paying back the money immediately, but would also be subject to paying taxes and fees, raising the cost of the project.

"The only scenario under which we could use bond funds was this one," she said. "It also makes our construction loan a much more doable deal."

She added, "This particular structure has the best chance of success."

"My problem is I'm being asked to vote on a resolution that gives away a million dollars, and I've not seen any numbers. None," said Ruggles. "I can't do that responsibly."

Councilwoman El Warner also said she was uncomfortable with the situation.

"I want the market to happen, but I'm not comfortable handing over one million dollars in taxpayer dollars...While I'd like to give (the public) the market, I'm not sure it's in the top five things (they want)," Warner said.

Preliminary plans for the new indoor market at the vacant
Weller Center building were shown during an announcement
of the plan in July, but some city council members say they
want to see more of the business plan and revenue projections
before voting on whether to grant $1 million to GEDP for
the project.
Click on the image for a full-size view

She added that she wanted to see more numbers and specific revenue projections from GEDP before she makes a final decision on the matter.

"We could vote tonight, but I'd have to vote no," she said. "If you gave me two weeks, I might change my mind."

Longenbach said the project could still move forward with the delay, but warned further delays could imperil the plan to close the sale of the building in October.

"It's imperative, whether through a grant from the city or otherwise that we be able to move forward so we don't jeopardize that," she told council members.

While Panto agreed the request for more specific financial information and GEDP's business plan for the space was reasonable, he said he's personally satisfied with the little that's been presented so far, noting a lot of the information will be contingent on what happens after the building is purchased.

"My concerns on this were satisfied today," he said, adding that he feels the new market is the best use for the space. "That building is just too big to attract a private developer. I think it's a good project, and it has my full support."

Longenbach promised to deliver more specific information to council members in coming days, and the matter is expected to be discussed again at the city council committee meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 10, with the resolution set to be revisted at the council's next regular meeting on Wednesday, Sept. 11.

Easton City Council Approves Three Street Initiatives

By Christina Georgiou

Fourth Street in Downtown Easton may be reverted back
to being a two-way street, from its current status of
being a one-way, southbound road, if a traffic study
approved by city council Wednesday evening supports
the feasibility of the idea.

Easton's city council unanimously approved three resolutions Wednesday evening designed to improve city streets in the near future, two in the Downtown district, and one in the West Ward.

On the list were portions of Northampton Street and North Third Street, which the council approved to be taken back from PennDOT control, a traffic study of Fourth Street to investigate the feasibility of reverting the road back to two-way traffic from its current one-way southbound flow, and a study and plan development for improvements to the 13th Street corridor leading to the Silk Mill Redevelopment Project.

The turn-back of the segment of Northampton Street between Larry Holmes Drive and Seventh Street, along with North Third Street, is advantageous because of a one-time payment of approximately $665,000 it will entitle the city to get from PennDOT that will be put toward replacing crosswalks and handicap ramps in Centre Square that the city would otherwise need to fund.

The city will also be entitled to a $4,000 per year payment from the state agency for maintenance of the roadway in perpetuity, said Easton Public Works Director David Hopkins.

Easton is responsible for the maintenance of the crossings anyway, as PennDOT only maintains the roadway itself, he said.

"Over the past few years, we've noticed some rapid deterioration (of the crosswalks and ramps)," he said, adding that the roadway itself was last resurfaced about six years ago and is still in good condition. "We think our exposure on these projects is pretty low."

The area in yellow, along Northampton and North Third streets, will be
taken back from state control so that the City of Easton can take
advantage of funding from the state to replace crosswalks and curb ramps.
Click on the image for a full-size view.

The city estimates it will cost about $642,000 to replace 16 crosswalks and ramps in the Centre Square area, and the money from PennDOT for taking maintenance responsibility back would be more than sufficient to pay for the improvements, he said.

"I believe it's pretty inevitable we'd have to do this," he said, noting that if the city doesn't take the road segment back, it would still be stuck with the bill for maintaining the crosswalks.

Hopkins estimated the work on the crosswalks and new ramps will last 15 to 20 years, about the same amount of time the city estimates the roads themselves will last before needing resurfacing.

It will take PennDOT about six months to approve the take-back by the city, and then the city has two years to get the work done on the Centre Square area crosswalks to be reimbursed by the state agency, he said.

Talking about the possibility of reverting Fourth Street back to a two-way street from its current one-way southbound status, Hopkins said a study and design work to be provided by city engineering firm Pennoni and Associates will cost $13,300. The money will be provided through the existing traffic signal line item in the city's capital budget.

If the study indicates it's feasible, new traffic signals and signs needed to complete the switch would be paid for by a grant from PennDOT that includes other Northampton Street signalization improvements, Hopkins said.

Making the street a two-way road again would be beneficial, Hopkins said.

"It would give residents another north-south route through the city, while avoiding Centre Square," he said.

Mayor Sal Panto expressed support for the possibility.

"It's been proven that two-way streets slow traffic down," he said. "I think any time you can have a two-way street, you increase commerce because people get to see the city instead of driving around it."

Councilman Roger Ruggles asked if Ferry Street between Third and Fourth streets might also be included in the study.

"I think Ferry Street is an integral component," he said. "If you make Fourth Street go in two directions, I think Ferry Street needs to be two-way between Third and Fourth."

But for now, Ferry Street, along with the other one-way streets that comprise "the ring road" around Centre Square--Spring Garden and Second streets--are unlikely to become two-way, though the possibility has been discussed a number of times in the past and the city won't rule it out for the future, Hopkins said.

"I think Ferry Street has the potential to be two-way," he told city council members. "It's worth a look to se if it would work, but with a turning lane (that the new parking garage will require), it would significantly narrow the travel lane."

If it's deemed feasible to change the traffic pattern on Fourth Street, the number of parking spots will still be preserved, Hopkins added.

As for other one-way corridors in the Downtown district, along with a few others in the city, like Lehigh and Washington streets, they will need to be handled in the future on a case-by-case basis, Hopkins said.

"I think you have to look at each of them individually," he said. "We were able to negotiate with PennDOT for them to pay for the changes (to Fourth Street) if the study supports it."

The new traffic signals that will be needed to change the Fourth Street traffic pattern, if it happens, will be worked into an already existing plan to upgrade signals between Fourth and 13th streets along Northampton Street.

"They're not complete replacements," Hopkins said of the upgrades that are set to happen in the near future. "They're upgrading things like the signal heads and pedestrian signals."

Turning to the West Ward road project, the study and design work slated for the 13th Street corridor is part of the Silk Mill Redevelopment Project and will be undertaken at a cost of $200,000, funded entirely by a federal HUD Sustainable Communities grant. No city funds will be used for the project, city officials said.

The area, which abuts the 13th Street entrance and exit ramps to Route 22 as well as one entrance for the silk mill site, is to "ensure the future function of the roadways, approaches, and intersections leading to and from the proposed Silk Mill Redevelopment Project" and was negotiated through the city's existing agreement with city engineering firm Pennoni and Associates, Hopkins said.

It is expected the full study and plan development will be completed in mid-2014.

Easton Police Department Adds Four New Officers, Promote Two

By Christina Georgiou

Christopher Webb, David Costa, Matthew Orchulli, and Corey Lollis, sworn
in at Wednesday evening's city council meeting, have become Easton's
newest police officers.

Four new Easton Police patrolmen were sworn in at Wednesday evening's city council meeting, while two other members of the department were promoted.

Christopher Webb, Matthew Orchulli, Corey Lollis, and David Costa have joined the EPD, leaving the department with no vacancies and 63 members.

Additionally, Chuck Leauber was promoted to detective, and Daniel Bonham was officially made a patrol sergeant.

Members of city council praised the men and thanked them for their future service to the city.

EPD members David Bonham and Chuck Leauber were
promoted to patrol sergeant and detective respectively
at Wednesday evening's city council meeting.

"Thank you for swearing to not overthrow the government--I always love that part of the oath," quipped Councilman Jeff Warren, who heads the city council public safety  committee. "But seriously, be safe out there."

"I would also like to thank your families for allowing you to serve the community," said Mayor Sal Panto, adding, "I always love promotions from within because it shows how people can grow within our organization."

A Wing and a Prayer Offers Food for the Soul

By Christina Georgiou

Brandi Watson, right, cuts the ribbon on her new take-out restaurant, Ms. Brandi's A Wing and A Prayer, located at
444 Northampton St.

Brandi Watson began cooking for friends and family more than 20 years ago, but it was only yesterday that her dream of owning her own restaurant came true.

"I've always done it for friend and family, and then it grew," she said at the grand opening of Ms. Brandi's A Wing and a Prayer.

Those at the ribbon cutting were
treated to free samples from the
menu, including several varieties
of wings.

Surrounded by dozens of friends and family members, as well as her pastor and other church members, Watson cut the ribbon at the door of her new establishment at 444 Northampton St. to cheers and applause.

The final funding she needed came through a loan from "Sam Adams Brewing the American Dream" and the Rising Tide Community Loan Fund, which enabled Watson to buy the restaurant's equipment.

"It's wonderful when big corporations that started out as small companies help out other small companies," said Easton mayor Sal Panto at the event, noting that the new eatery, which offers soul food specialties, is the only restaurant on the 400 block of Northampton Street, and that its proximity to the State Theatre is sure to help get it noticed by city visitors.

Zepp Watson ladles out a serving of
beans and greens for a customer at the
grand opening her daughter's new restaurant
Wednesday afternoon.

Watson said she's worked hard to get to the point of opening the establishment and credited her faith for sustaining her through hard times.

"I just encourage single mothers, keep moving--you can do it," she said. I hope you feel something diferent than if you just went to McDonalds. Everything here is done with love."s

"I'll be back, because she makes a mean chicken," Panto said, quipping that the rain outside portended a prosperous future. "It's an old oriental proverb. If it rains when you open, it means more money."

Watson said she developed the menu--which includes soul food specialties including fried chicken, wings, hand-sliced cheese steaks, beans and greens, and a variety of desserts, from items she's been cooking regularly.

"They're things I used to cook all the time," she said. "I just slowly did what people liked."

A Wing and A Prayer cook Keven Hernandez puts an
order of wings into a waiting container, held by Brandi
Watson's daughter, Tyra, 16. She and her brother, Trey, will
be working at the restaurant regularly, Watson said.

She'll be adding daily specials to the menu too.

"I like to cook lots of different things," Watson added.

The new take-out currently employs three people, and her mother and 16-year-old twin children will also work at the eatery, in addition to Watson herself, she said.

While Watson, who lives in Easton's West Ward, intends to keep her day job as a Northampton County Prison warden "for at least a couple of years, until the twins are in college", she'll still be a familiar sight at the restaurant, she said.

And, along with delicious food, customers will be greeted as friends, Watson promised.

"I just want people to be comfortable here. We're doing more than just frying chicken," she said.

Kari Holmes hands out menus to guests at
the grand opening of Ms. Brandi's A Wing and A Prayer
Wednesday afternoon.

Ms. Brandi's A Wing and A Prayer, located at 444 Northampton St., is open Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., 11 a.m. to 12:30 a.m. Fridays and Saturdays, and noon to 6 p.m. on Sundays. A Wing and a Prayer will be closed on Tuesdays.







In addition to take-out, the restaurant also offers catering. Ms. Brandi's A Wing and A Prayer's offerings will be featured at a Sam Adams speed coaching event in Brenigsville on Sept. 12. For more information about that event, click here.

Reach them by phone at 610-515-9900 or visit the restaurant's Facebook page to see what's new.

Veggie Van Wraps Up First Season, Changes Likely for Next Year

By Christina Georgiou

Residents wait in line for fresh, locally grown
produce at the last Easton Veggie Van stop
of the season Monday evening in the city's West Ward.

 Easton's Veggie Van distributed its last load of locally grown produce for this year yesterday evening--approximately 300 pounds to about 50 city residents--and while the final results and the exact future of the program are yet to be determined, the volunteers who run it say their effort to get more fresh, healthy foods to West Ward residents was a definitely a success.

A total of more than 1,500 pounds of fresh vegetables and fruit were distributed this summer, coming from local gardens at Lafayette College, the Urban Farm in Easton's South Side, and from community gardens in the West Ward, including the one at South 10th and Pine streets, where six of the seven weekly summer Veggie Van stops took place.

The project was a collaboration between the annual Lafayette College multi-discipline technology clinic and the West Ward Neighborhood Partnership, and both groups said they will be crunching numbers, tallying answers given on surveys circulated among Veggie Van customers, and analyzing collected data, to determine how the program will best work next year.

While the produce was given away for free this year, with donations gratefully accepted, that will probably change in 2014, said more than one person involved in the program. Giving away the produce at first not only helped the group gauge public interest, but also get around city ordinances pertaining to vending and eliminate the need for paying for permitting when the success of the effort was still untested and uncertain.

"For us, as a sort of intellectual exercise, which is what the tech clinic is, there is a lot to work on for next year," said Lafayette College professor Larry Malinconico, who also serves at the tech clinic's advisor. "We learned things over the summer. There are day-to-day mundane things, like 'What do you need?' Bags, for one thing, though people were bringing their own."

What the best way to distribute the bounty was also something the tech clinic will be working on, he said, noting that while it was clear from the beginning the idea was popular, the first week, held during the city's Summer Nights program at Centennial Park, emphasized the need for a more controllable situation.

While moving the distribution point to the 10th Street community garden provided that and is fairly centrally located in the West Ward, next year the program may add a second weekly distribution spot, or possibly even use the "ice cream truck" model to get the fresh veggies to residents.

Allie Nagurney, Lafayette College tech clinic student coordinator,
distributes produce at the last Easton Veggie Van stop
of the summer Monday evening.

"We had to work hard to get people here," said Allie Nagurney, who serves as the project's student coordinator. "Whether people will 'get it' with someone driving around, I don't know."

Still, the program's popularity grew during the summer months, and the volunteers are happy with the outcome of their efforts.

"It was rewarding to see new people, that word got out," Malinconico said. "We learned a lot. It was successful in terms of the goal of making people aware of nutrition and fresh vegetables."

"It was very different that I expected it to be, but I learned a lot," Nagurney added.

The program has the potential too to eventually employ an entrepreneurial resident to run it, especially if those involved determine the "ice cream truck" model will work as a way to bring fresh produce to those in the West Ward, opined Sophia Feller, who coordinates several community gardens in the city and works as the WWNP's administrative secretary. Under this scenario, the produce would be sold to customers, though prices would be moderately set to ensure affordability, she added.

Tech Clinic students, along with those from the WWNP, involved in the project are set to meet later this week to discuss various aspects of Veggie Van experiment. Tech Clinic participants will also be brainstorming on the project's further evolution this fall, with a public presentation of their findings set for some time in December.

But whatever the Tech Clinic finds and whatever decisions are made for next year's Veggie Van, one thing is certain.

"The is a West Ward effort. The Tech Clinic helped facilitate this," Malinconico said. "But it has to be a neighborhood effort to be successful."

New Soul Food Take-Out Eatery to Open in Downtown Easton

A new soul-food style takeout and catering company is inviting members of the community to the eatery's ribbon-cutting and grand opening celebration and sample its offerings on Wednesday at 1 p.m.

A Wing and a Prayer, set to officially open
on Wednesday, will offer light fare wraps,
salads and fresh fruit during the week
and traditional soul food, such as ribs,
greens, fried chicken, and waffles,
on weekends.
Facebook page photo

Described by owner Brandi Watson as "contemporary comfort food," A Wing and a Prayer will offer light fare wraps, salads and fresh fruit during the week and traditional soul food, such as ribs, greens, fried chicken, and waffles, on weekends.

Located at 444 Northampton St., Watson's dream of opening her own business was made possible through an $11,500 loan from the Samuel Adams Brewing the American Dream program, in partnership with local lender Rising Tide Community Loan Fund, she said recently.

The space, which was last home to a small restaurant specializing in the cuisine of the West Indies, has recently been redecorated and provides a bright and welcoming atmosphere for A Wing and a Prayer's customers that are sure to enjoy "Ms. Brandi's" home cooking.

Friends assist with the recent redecorating efforts at the soon-to-open A Wing and a Prayer,
located at 444 Northampton St.
Facebook page photo

To keep up with the latest menu items and specials A Wing and a Prayer will offer, visit the eatery's Facebook page.

Update: To see photos from the ribbon cutting and grand opening event, click here.

This Week in Easton, August 26 to 29

The kids may be going back to school this week, but that doesn't have to mean summer has to be  over for you...

Monday, August 26

Easton Veggie Van Stop: 5:30 p.m. Volunteers will distribute in-season vegetables and produce grown at local community gardens. Free, donations appreciated. Held over due to immense popularity (and a few extra veggies), this truly is the last week for the season! South 10th and Pine streets, near the community garden. Click here for more information.

Open Mic Night: 6 to 10 p.m. PA will be provided, bring yourself, your songs, and your instruments, or, just come and enjoy the music. BYOB okay, but please, no soda or food. Free. New Seasons Event Center, 905b Line St. For more info about open mic specifics, email SlideTheBlues@gmail.com or click here.

Palmer Township Shade Tree Committee 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. All are welcome, handicapped accessible. Faith Lutheran Church, 2012 Sullivan Trail, Forks Township. 610-253-1035

Comedy Show: 8 p.m. Hosted by Easton's own Liz Russo, with headliner Tommy Pope, and comedians Dan Shelly, Tyler Rothrock, Kricket Lee, and others. No cover. Click here for more information. Rivals, 5 Lehn's Court. 610-392-2932 or www.rivalseaston.com

Trivia Night: 8 p.m. Two Rivers Brewing Company, 542 Northampton St. 610-829-1131 or www.tworiversbrewing.com

Tuesday, August 27

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

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

Palmer Adult Book Group: 6 to 7:30 p.m. This month's book is "Nothing Daunted" by Dorothy Wickenden. Palmer Library, at the Municipal Complex, 1 Weller Place (off of Newburg Road), Palmer Township. Click here for more information about this group.

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.

Line Dancing: 7 to 9:30 p.m. Beginner lessons 7:15 p.m. Open dancing follows. $5 per person. Tatamy Fire Company, 164 Bushkill St., Tatamy. 610-759-2786 or www.purecountrydancers.com

Wednesday, August 28

Restaurant Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony: 1 p.m. A Wing and a Prayer,  a new soul-food style takeout and catering company is inviting members of the community to the eatery's ribbon cutting and grand opening celebration and sample its offerings. 444 Northampton St. 484-515-8389 or click here for more details.

Weyerbacher Wednesday: 4 to 9 p.m. The Easton Farmers' Market's new weekday evening market. Twenty producer-only vendors offer fresh locally grown produce, herb, flowers, raw milk, cheese and yogurt, pasture-raised meat and eggs, artisan breads and baked goods, prepared foods, and vegan specialties. www.eastonfarmersmarket.org or click here for more information.

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

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

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.

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

Tower Suite: 7 p.m. Vintage Restaurant at The Club at Morgan Hill, 100 Clubhouse Drive. 610-923-8480 or www.vintagerestaurantandbar.com

Brosky & Meyers: 7 p.m. The Widow's Tavern, 200 Main St., Stockertown. 610-365-8890 or www.widowstavern.com

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

Jam Session: 8 p.m. Hosted by Lou Franco. Rivals, 5 Lehn's Court. 610-392-2932 or www.rivalseaston.com

Mark Macmanus: 8 p.m. Riegelsville Tavern, 1274 Easton Road, Riegelsville. 610-510-3030 or www.riegelsvilletavern.com

Thursday, August 29

Lolly and YoYo Concert: 2 p.m. Show is geared for children ages 2 through 7 and include adventurous storytelling, interactive songs and lots of jumping around. Riegelsville Public Library, 615 Easton Road (Route 611), Riegelsville. 610-982-9594

Fundraiser Happy Hour: 4 to 7 p.m. Ten percent of all sales will go to the Easton Firefighters Coats for Kids campaign, sponsored by IAFF Local 713. Plus, tours of the Easton fire station across the street from 5:30 to 7 p.m., 50/50 raffles, and t-shirts for sale. Two Rivers Brewing Company, 542 Northampton St. 610-829-1131 or www.tworiversbrewing.com For more about the Coats for Kids campaign or to donate directly, visit is.gd/EastonCoats

Karaoke with D.W. Wilson: 7 to 10 p.m. Larry Holmes Ringside Restaurant and Lounge, 91 Larry Holmes Drive. 610-250-0202

Bring (or wear) Your Own Vinyl night: 8 p.m. to midnight. With the Easton Record Exchange. Black & Blue, 683 Walnut St. 610-438-3604 or www.blackandblueeaston.com

Karaoke with Off the Grid Entertainment: 8 p.m. Rivals, 5 Lehn's Court. 610-392-2932 or www.rivalseaston.com

Karaoke: 8 p.m. Riegelsville Tavern, 1274 Easton Road, Riegelsville. 610-510-3030 or www.riegelsvilletavern.com

YanCarlos Sanchez: 8 p.m. Porters' Pub, 700 Northampton St. 610-250-6561 or www.porterspubeaston.com

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

Save the Date!

Don't forget, the 2nd Annual Greater Easton Open is this Friday, August 30 at the Riverview County Club, beginning at 8 a.m., with a barbeque luncheon at noon. Whether hitting the greens or just up for lunch, it's not too late to sign up. Event proceeds benefit community organizations in all four city neighborhoods, and all fees are tax-deductable and ...click here for more details.

"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!

Last updated on Tuesday, August 27 at 10:24 a.m.

Scene in Easton: Antique Studebakers Line Northampton St.

By Christina Georgiou

Five 1960s Studebakers seen parked along the 500 block of Northampton Street Saturday afternoon. The rare
antique vehicles belong to members of the Keystone Region Chapter of the International Studebaker Drivers Club,
which met in the city this weekend.

The Keystone Region Chapter of the International Studebaker Drivers Club met in Easton on Saturday, paying visits to Farmers' Market, Nurture Nature Center, and the Josiah White canal boat and the National Canal Museum.

A bit of a blast from the past, we spotted five members' vehicles parked on Northampton Street early Saturday afternoon, shortly before they were displayed for the afternoon at Hugh Moore Park.

While Studebakers haven't been in active production for nearly 50 years, the company still holds the record for the longest "over the road" vehicle production in U.S. history--114 years, from 1852 to 1966--and is the only vehicle manufacturer to have made the transition from the horse-and-buggy era, first making electric cars in 1902, and then petroleum-powered vehicles, beginning in 1904.

The Pennsylvania drivers' club also notes that the Studebaker Corporation has a connection with the state, since members of the Staudenbecker (later Studebaker) family of Solingen, Germany arrived in Philadelphia in 1736, and John Studebaker, was born in Getty's Town (later Gettysburg) in 1799.

John Studebaker and his sons moved to South Bend in a covered wagon in 1851, and went on to establish a carriage company that eventually evolved into the car company in the 20th century, according to studebakerhistory.com.

Scene in Easton: Used Grooves Grand Opening Bash at Club Jungle

By Christina Georgiou

Used Grooves, a new shop in Easton's Downtown that opened its doors in June and sells vinyl records, held its official grand opening party at Club Jungle Friday night, drawing several hundred locals and others to the event, where guests danced the night away.

The crowd grooved to the non-stop beats of four DJs, DJ Dogtrane, Cozmo D, DJ DB, and Derrik Foxx, all  well-known on the New York and international club scenes, until closing time at 2 a.m.

Josh Finck as Selectronics improvising some video ambiance
at the Used Grooves grand opening party at Club Jungle
Friday night.

Also on hand was Selectronics' Josh Finck who provided improvised video ambiance, and models from the  newly opened Elite Boutique, also in Downtown Easton.

Whether you made it to this hot event or not, there will be more chances in the near future to join the party, as Used Grooves intends to hold more events on a regular basis.

From left to right, DJ DB, Cozmo D, and DJ Dogtrane
collaborate on a dance beat Friday night at the Used Grooves
grand opening party at Club Jungle.

"We're going to have one every month," said store manager Brad Scott Smith. "There will be one in September, and we're planning a bash for Halloween too."

Smith is also a DJ too, and can be seen on Sundays during brunch at Valenca. This Sunday, he will likely be joined by Foxx, who said he may delay travelling back to New York and spend the weekend in Easton.

Foxx also plans to spin some tunes this afternoon at Used Grooves, located at 401 Northampton St.

For more about the shop and to keep up with future events, visit www.usedgrooves.com

Click on any photo for a full size view!

Models from Elite Boutique pose at the door at Club Jungle during Used
Grooves' grand opening party Friday night.

FAIT breakdancers pose for a photo during the Used Grooves grand
opening party at Club Jungle in Downtown Easton Friday night.

Breakdancer Fait De Prince struts his stuff
at Club Jungle Friday night during Used
Grooves' grand opening party.

Derrik Foxx prepares to take the stage Friday
night at Used Grooves' grand opening party.

Used Grooves co-owners Ken Connors and Peter Ruzich, along with store manager Brad Scott Smith,
pose for a photo during the new Downtown Easton shop's grand opening party Friday night.

Weekend Guide, August 23 to 25

September is just around the corner, so pack in some more summer fun in while you can!

Friday, August 23

Mellow Grand Opening party: 6 p.m . Easton's first hookah lounge celebrates its grand opening with top quality tobacco and tobacco-free steam stones in a variety of the finest hookahs available. Free wifi, music, and food and drinks in a relaxing atmosphere. Mellow Hookah Lounge, 17 South Second St. www.mellowloungellc.com 

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

Philadelphia Funk Authority, DJ Kevin Rogers: Band at 8 p.m., DJ at 10:30 p.m.  Rivals Sports Bar & Nightclub, 5 Lehns Court. 610-923-7625 or www.rivalseaston.com

Anthem: 8 p.m. A Rush cover band. Leaf Cigar Bar and Lounge, 90 Mort Drive, Forks Township. 610-559-1336 or www.leafcigarbar.com

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

Used Grooves Grand Opening Party: 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. DJ Dogtrane, Ben "Cozmo D" Cenac, DJ DB, and Derrik Foxx, Selectronics, breakdancers, models from Elite Boutique, and more. Free, dress to impress. Click here for more details. Club Jungle, 411 Northampton St. 610-252-8282 or www.usedgrooves.com

Ojespa Jazz Project: 9 p.m. Two Rivers Brewing Company, 542 Northampton St. 610-829-1131 or www.tworiversbrewing.com

Schubert & Binder: 9 p.m. Colonial Pizza & Spaghetti House, 136-138 Spring Garden St. 610-252-3033 or www.colonialpizzapub.com

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

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

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

The Ritz Band: 10 p.m. Dub's on Fifth, 402 South Fifth St., West Easton. 610-438-3827 or www.dubson5th.com

Saturday, August 24

 

Easton Farmers' Market 7th Annual Tomato Fest: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Come savor summer’s finest gift. Whether it’s heirlooms, beefsteaks, or sungolds, it’s hard to beat that burst of summer flavor. Market Marinara Contest from 10 a.m. to noon. Top Tomato Contest with prizes for biggest, best tasting and ugliest tomatoes. Bloody Mary Showdown at 11 a.m. with local bartenders Market Chef demo by Sette Luna at noon.Tomato Golf, tomato beer brewed by Two Rivers Brewing Company, and live jazz with Joe Wagoner too! Centre Square. 610-330-9942 or www.eastonfarmersmarket.com

FAM(iliarity) Tour: 10 a.m. A walking tour of Downtown Easton. Free. Tour leaves from the west side of Centre Square. www.eastonmainstreet.org

Cartoon Workshop: 1 to 3 p.m. Create cartoon characters and anime fantasies with animator and instructor Cottie Kilbanks. Free. Nurture Nature Center, 518 Northampton St. 610-253-4422 or www.nurturenaturecenter.org 

Poetry Readings: 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Part of the "Reanimated Movements" art show, topics include civil rights, American poverty, women’s suffrage, conscientious objection, laborer’s rights, Roe vs. Wade, and more. Quadrant Bookmart and Coffee House, 20 North Third St. Click here for more details.

"Urban Muse" Opening Reception: 5 p.m. Meet photographer Yevette Hendler and see her latest works. Cosmic Cup, 520 March St. 610-438-3211 or www.cosmiccupcoffee.com

Mellow Grand Opening party: 6 p.m . Easton's first hookah lounge celebrates its grand opening with top quality tobacco and tobacco-free steam stones in a variety of the finest hookahs available. Free wifi, music by DJ No Clue, and food and drinks in a relaxing atmosphere. Mellow Hookah Lounge, 17 South Second St. www.mellowloungellc.com 

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

Dancing To The Oldies Under The Stars: 7 p.m. with DJ Fran Aiello. Come enjoy a magical night and bring back the memories. Valenca, , 64-66 Centre Square. 610-923-5142 or www.valencaonthesquare.com

Mitch from 99 the Hawk, DJ Jus Smith: Mitch at 7 p.m., DJ at 10 p.m.  Rivals Sports Bar & Nightclub, 5 Lehns Court. 610-923-7625 or www.rivalseaston.com

Saturday Night Dance: 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

The Hammers: 8 p.m. The Riegelsville Inn, 12 Delaware Road, Riegelsville. 610-749-0100 or www.riegelsvilleinn.com
 
Forks Township Movies in the Park: "42" begins at dusk. Bring a lawn chair or blanket for a more comfortable viewing experience. Forks Township Community Park Amphitheatre, 500 Zucksburg Road, Forks Township.

The Corner Blues Project: 9 p.m. Two Rivers Brewing Company, 542 Northampton St. 610-829-1131 or www.tworiversbrewing.com

Decoy Clones: 9 p.m. Riegelsville Tavern, 1274 Easton Road, Riegelsville. 610-510-3030 or www.riegelsvilletavern.com

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

Uncle Smiley: 9 p.m. Widows Tavern, 200 Main St., Stockertown. 610-365-8890 or www.widowstavern.com 

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

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

"Dance-a-Palooza": 10 p.m. With a DJ. Mesa Modern Mexican, 42 South Third St. 610-829-2101 or www.mesamexican.com

That Being Said: 10 p.m. Dub's on Fifth, 402 South Fifth St., West Easton. 610-438-3827 or www.dubson5th.com

Sunday, August 25

DJ Mumbler, DJ Brad Scott: Noon to 4 p.m., during brunch. Valenca, 64-66 Centre Square. 610-923-5141 or www.valencarestauranteaston.com

Blues Jam with BC Combo: 5:30 p.m. Bella Luna, 3417 Sullivan Trail, Forks Township. 610-253-7458
 
The Easton Municipal Band: 6 p.m. Free. Meuser Park, 22nd and Northampton streets, Wilson Borough. www.eastonband.com

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

Industry Night: 10 p.m.  Rivals Sports Bar & Nightclub, 5 Lehns Court. 610-923-7625 or www.rivalseaston.com

Save the Date!   

 The 2nd Annual Greater Easton Open, a four-person, best-ball scramble format golf tournament, will be held on Friday, August 30 at the Riverview County Club, and tournament proceeds will benefit four Easton neighborhood improvement organizations. Tees off at 8 a.m. with a barbeque luncheon at noon. Players receive greens fees, lunch, a GEO t-shirt, GEO collectible golf balls, and gifts and coupons from area merchants and restaurants. Longest drive and closest-to-the-pin prizes will be awarded, along with door prizes. Click here for more details and how to enter!

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Updated at 11:36 a.m.