South Side Robbery Suspects Named Face Charges, Police Say

Kenneth Ennis
Photo courtesy of the Easton Police Department

Two men face multiple charges when apprehended in connection with an armed robbery that occurred in the city's South Side neighborhood in the 100 block of West St. Joseph Street at about 6 p.m. last  Thursday evening when the victim was approached by three men, two of who punched him several times while a third took his wallet, police have announced,

The Easton Police Department has obtained arrest warrants for Kenneth Maurice Ennis and Maynard Macken, according to a media release.

Ennis, described by police as a 24-year-old black male standing approximately six feet tall and weighing about 170 pounds, is charged with criminal conspiracy to commit robbery, simple assault, robbery,  simple assault, theft, and recklessly endangering another person. Authorities added Ennis is known to frequent the 200 block of West Nesquehoning Street in Easton.

Maynard Macken
Photo courtesy of the Easton Police Department

 

Macken is charged with criminal conspiracy to commit robbery, aggravated assault, robbery,  aggravated assault, theft, being a former convict who is not allowed to possess a firearm, and recklessly endangering another person. Macken is described as a 46-year-old black male, approximately six feet tall and weighing 225 pounds. Police say he has been known to frequent the southside of  Easton and the 1600 block of Washington Street in Wilson Borough.

The Easton Police Department added that the investigation into the robbery is still very active, and that no firearm has yet been recovered in connection with the case, so police believe the suspects could be armed.

"We want the public to be aware of these individuals and know they are wanted," said Easton Police Inspector Daniel J. Reagan. "...call 911 if seen, or if their location is known."

No further information was immediately available from the EPD about a possible third suspect in the robbery case, but a press release from the department indicated more information about the incident and suspects may be released in the near future.

Anyone with information regarding the incident is asked to call EPD Detective Charles Leauber at 610-250-6780 or leave information on the tipline at 610-250-6635. Callers to the tipline can remain anonymous.

This Week in Easton, December 30 to January 2

Out with the old, in with the new...

Monday, December 30

Open Mic Night: 6 to 10 p.m. P.A. will be provided, please bring yourself, your songs and your instruments. Come to play or just come to enjoy the music. BYOB ok, but please, no soda or food. New Seasons Event Center, 905b Line St. Email SlideTheBlues@gmail.com for more info.

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.

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

Tuesday, December 31

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

Crayola Experience New Year's Eve party: Noon to 7 p.m. Admission includes all-day access to 21 attractions, dance party, crayon character appearances, two bounce house rides, a countdown with streamers, and a free Crayola gift. Tickets are $19.99 per person. Click here to purchase tickets online. Crayola Experience, 30 Centre Square

It's New Year's Eve!

If you go out tonight, be careful, be safe, and be sure to have fun too!

"Happy Tied-down New Year's Eve": Starts 8 p.m. Wear any kind of tie, with a prize going to the best outfit. DJ April will rock the house, and there will also be games, light fare, and a champagne toast at midnight. Free, you must be 21 to attend. La Pazza Bar, 1251 Ferry St. 610-515-0888 or www.lapazza.com

24th annual New Year's Eve Bash, with The Depas: Porters' Pub, 700 Northampton St. 610-250-6561 or www.porterspubeaston.com

New Year's Eve with DJ Kevin Rogers: Rivals, 5 Lehn's Court. 610-392-2932 or www.rivalseaston.com

New Year's Eve Party: DJ and dancing, with chef-prepared specials plus a full menu and bar. Reservations recommended. Riegelsville Tavern, 1274 Easton Road, Riegelsville. 610-510-3030 or www.riegelsvilletavern.com

Wednesday, January 1

Today is New Year's Day. 
The first day of the year is a federal, state and local holiday, and most government offices are closed.

There is no LANTA bus service today. However, on holidays, when there is no LANTA bus service, the public may ride Trans-Bridge buses locally for $2 per trip. Trans-Bridge will be operating on a Sunday schedule today. Visit www.transbridgelines.com and click on the "holiday service" link about halfway down the page for more details.

Free Texas Hold'em: 7 & 9 p.m. Registration is 15 minutes prior to each game. La Pazza Bar, 1251 Ferry St. 610-515-0888 or www.lapazza.com

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

Thursday, January 2

Williams Township Landfill Advisory Committee meeting: 8 a.m. Williams Township Municipal Office, 655 Cider Press Road, Easton (Williams Township)

Cops 'n Kids Reading Room open: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Children receive three free books for visiting. Easton Area Community Center, back entrance, 901 Washington St. 610-250-6562

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

PBR Retro Thursday and Game Night: Available for your endless enjoyment and nostalgic lapses are a wide assortment games we all grew up playing, plus, Ring-the-Bull and Shut-the-Box. PBR cans are $1 from 4 p.m. to midnight. La Pazza Bar, 1251 Ferry St. 610-515-0888 or www.lapazza.com

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
 
Yan Carlos and the Subtle Experience: 8 p.m. Porters' Pub, 700 Northampton St. 610-250-6561 or www.porterspubeaston.com

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

"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!

Robbers Assault Man, Take His Wallet in South Side

A 26-year-old man was robbed of his wallet by three armed men in the city's South Side neighborhood Thursday evening, the Easton Police Department reports.

Police were called to the scene of a robbery in progress in the 100 block of West St. Joseph Street at about 6:12 p.m., where the victim reportedly told police he was approached by three men, one of who demanded his wallet. The other two men then punched him several times, police say the victim told them.

It is believed the suspect that demanded the wallet was armed with a handgun. All three reportedly fled south immediately after the incident toward the 100 block of West Nesquehoning Street, police said.

The three suspects have been described as:

A black male, approximately 30 years of age, about 5-feet-10-inches tall weighing about 250 pounds, with short hair, wearing a dark sweat shirt at the time of the robbery

A light-skinned black male, thought to be in his late 20s, standing about 6-feet-1-inch, weighing about 180 pounds, with short hair, wearing a long sleeved red shirt at the time of the robbery

A dark-skinned black male, with short hair, who was wearing a black hood at the time of the robbery

The victim did not require medical treatment, police added. 

The Easton Police Department says it is continuing to investigate, and anyone with information about the robbery should call Det. Charles Leauber at 610-250-6780, or the EPD Tipline at 610-250-6635. Callers can remain anonymous.

Weekend Guide, December 27 to 29

This is the last weekend of 2013...so make the most of it!

Friday, December 27

A Few Good Men, DJ Riske One: Band at 7 p.m., DJ at 10 p.m. Rivals Sports Bar & Nightclub, 5 Lehns Court. 610-923-7625 or www.rivalseaston.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
 
FON (Family OUT Night): 8 p.m. to midnight. LGBT social with complimentary buffet. Featuring DJ April spinning up some ole skool jams. For those over 21. La Pazza Bar, 13th and Ferry streets. 610-515-0888 or www.lapazza.com

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

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

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

Saturday, December 28

Easton Farmers' Market Winter Mart: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. More than 35 vendors offering fresh, local and organic food and fine crafts. Live music this week by Not For Coltrane. Runs every Saturday through April 26. At the former Weller Center, 325 Northampton St. 610-258-8500 or www.eastonfarmersmarket.com

"In the Mix": Beginning at 11 a.m., a full day of jungle, ragga, breakbeat and drum and bass with DJ Rabeka, DJ Dogtrane, DJ AWOL, and DJ Mourning Glory. Used Grooves, 401 Northampton St. 610-252-8282 or www.usedgrooves.com

Writers' and Musicians' Open Mic: 1:30 p.m. Have something to share? Join Danielle Notaro, author of "Limn the Mask" book of poems/prose and other special guests. Writers, artists, and musicians welcome. Free. Quadrant Book Mart and Coffee House, in the ACE Room C Gallery on the second floor, 20 North Third St.

Free Texas Hold'em: 7 & 9 p.m. Registration is 15 minutes prior to each game. La Pazza, 1251 Ferry St. 610-515-0888 or www.lapazza.com

Node: 8 p.m. The Riegelsville Inn, 12 Delaware Road, Riegelsville. 610-749-0100 or www.riegelsvilleinn.com
 
Acoustic Kitty Project with Scott Harrington: 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

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

Schubert & Binder: 10 p.m. Porters' Pub, 700 Northampton St. 610-250-6561 or www.porterspubeaston.com
 
Heidi Ott: 10 p.m. Pearly Baker's Alehouse, 11 Centre Square. 610-253-9949 or www.pearlybakers.net

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

Sunday, December 29

 

Writers' and Musicians' Open Mic: 1:30 p.m. Have something to share? Join Danielle Notaro, author of "Limn the Mask" book of poems/prose and other special guests. Writers, artists, and musicians welcome. Free. Quadrant Book Mart and Coffee House, in the ACE Room C Gallery on the second floor, 20 North Third St.

Open Mic and Karaoke: 7 to 11 p.m. Hosted by Party Animal and DJ Gary. Guitar, comedy, sing, and play. 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

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.

Annual Chocolate Lovers’ Soiree Promises Sweet Treats

The 2014 Chocolate Lovers’ Soiree, is set for Saturday, January 25 at the Bank Street Annex, 316 Northampton St., the Easton Main Street Initiative (EMSI) recently announced.

Now in its eighth year, the annual event dedicated to  cacao showcases the culinary talents and creativity of local independently owned businesses and features decadent desserts, savory treats, great conversation, live music and dancing. A cash bar will also be available.

Three ticket price levels are planned for the upcoming event.

An exclusive $75 per person ticket will include a three-course dinner prepared by Executive Chef Peter Felton of Pearly Bakers, to be paired with beer from Two Rivers Brewing Company from 5:30 to 7 p.m., and tickets include admission to the Chocolate Lovers’ Soiree for dessert. The dinner is limited to 20 people.

A "preview ticket", for $40 per person, allows ticket holders early access for the chocolate event, from 7 to 8 p.m.

General admission tickets are available for $30 per person, offering entrance from 8 to 10 p.m.

Chocolate Lovers’ Soiree tickets are available at the EMSI office at 35 South Third St.  Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For questions or more information, call 610-330-9947.

Advance tickets may also be purchased online at www.eastonmainstreet.org/chocolate

This Week in Easton, December 23 to 26

It's an ideal time to enjoy family and friends...Have a very merry week!

Monday, December 23

Easton Farmers' Market Wintermart: 4 to 7 p.m. Pick-up your special orders and last minute holiday meal items during this added market day. At the former Weller Center, 325 Northampton St. 610-258-8500 or www.eastonfarmersmarket.com

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

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

Tuesday, December 24

Today is Christmas Eve.

Many local government offices are closed, including the City of Easton. Northampton County offices close at noon.

Duplicate Bridge: 11:30 a.m. 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.

Wednesday, December 25

Today is Christmas day.

A very merry Christmas to all who celebrate it from The Easton Eccentric!

Today is a federal and state holiday. Additionally, all local government offices are closed.

There is no LANTA bus service today. However, on holidays, when there is no LANTA bus service, the public may ride Trans-Bridge buses locally for $2 per trip. Trans-Bridge will be operating on a Sunday schedule today. Visit www.transbridgelines.com and click on the "holiday service" link about halfway down the page for more details.

Thursday, December 26

Cops 'n Kids Reading Room open: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Children receive three free books for visiting. Easton Area Community Center, back entrance, 901 Washington St. 610-250-6562

PBR Retro Thursday and Game Night: Available for your endless enjoyment and nostalgic lapses are a wide assortment games we all grew up playing, plus, Ring-the-Bull and Shut-the-Box. PBR cans are $1 from 4 p.m. to midnight. La Pazza Bar, 1251 Ferry St. 610-515-0888 or www.lapazza.com

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

Christmas Hangover Comedy Show: 8 p.m. Sean Green and Jonny Loquasto headlining, with special guests Dan Shelly, Adam Yenser and Tyler Rothrock. Tickets are $10 per person. Rivals, 5 Lehn's Court. 610-392-2932 or click here for more details about the show.

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

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

"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!

Easton Police Searching for Shooting Suspects

A Google satellite image shows where a 27-year-old man was shot
Saturday night. Police say the victim was attempting to purchase
illegal drugs when he was shot in the neck.

A 27-year-old man was shot in the neck Saturday night in Easton's West Ward neighborhood and police are seeking two suspects in connection with the crime.

Easton police report an officer was flagged down by the victim near South 14th and Lehigh streets just before 11:30 p.m. and told police he had just been shot in the area of Elm Street. Police say they then determined that the incident occurred close to the intersection of Warren and Elm streets, just south of Washington Street between South 10th and 11th streets.

Jared Alvin, 18, will be charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, aggravated assault, robbery, recklessly endangering another person, and conspiracy to commit aggravated assault in connection with the shooting, police said, adding that Alvin is a suspected gang member and is considered to be armed and dangerous.

A second suspect is also being sought in connection with the shooting as well. He is described as being a tall, thin black male, about 20 to 23 years old, wearing a dark-colored "puffy" coat, blue jeans, and a backwards hat.

The victim is reportedly being treated at a local hospital and is expected to survive his injuries.

Police added that they believe the shooting is drug-related and that the victim was actively involved in purchasing narcotics when he was shot.

Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to contact Detective John Piperato at 610-250-6667 or the Easton Police tip line at 610-250-6635. Callers may remain anonymous.

Police added that anybody with any information as to the whereabouts of Alvin should call 911 immediately.

Updated at 11:50 a.m. to add information about the suspects.

Weekend Guide, December 20 to 22

If you're on the "naughty" list, this is your last weekend to make up for it. Or ensure you stay there...

Friday, December 20

Santa Pub Crawl: Begins at 6 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to show up in costume. Co-hosted by the "Beermuda Triangle": Two Rivers Brewing Company at 542 Northampton St., Black & Blue  at 683 Walnut St., and Porters' Pub at 700 Northampton St.

Dance: 7 to 10 p.m. Cha Cha with Con Gallagher, 7 to 8 p.m., dancing with music by DJ Carol Coffinger, 8 to 10 p.m.  $10 per person, benefits Third Street Alliance. 41 N. Third St. www.thirdstreetalliance.org

Amos, DJ Riske One: Band at 7 p.m., DJ at 10 p.m. Rivals Sports Bar & Nightclub, 5 Lehns Court. 610-923-7625 or www.rivalseaston.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

Lelica & BD Lenz: 8 p.m. Valenca, 66 Centre Square.

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

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

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

Ali Oop's Ole Skool Jam: 10 p.m. Everything from Motown to the Philly sound and anything that makes your feet leave the ground. Cool skool is in session.  La Pazza Bar, 1251 Ferry St. 610-515-0888 or www.lapazza.com

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

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

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

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

Saturday, December 21

"Christmas Gifts": 10 a.m. to noon. Gift giving at Christmas time is a way to express our caring and love. Nothing means more than those made by precious hands. Free. Children receive three free books with each visit to the Cops 'n Kids Reading Room too. Easton Area Community Center, back entrance, 901 Washington St. 610-250-6562

"This One Is For The Ladies" Book Signing: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Easton historian Ken Klabunde will sign copies of his new book which chronicles the history of the Simon Mansion. Third Street Alliance, in the library, 41 North Third St. Click here for more details.

Easton Farmers' Market Winter Mart: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. More than 35 vendors offering fresh, local and organic food and fine crafts. Runs every Saturday through April 26. At the former Weller Center, 325 Northampton St. 610-258-8500 or www.eastonfarmersmarket.com

Cookbook Signing: 10 a.m. featuring The New Ukranian Cookbook by local author, Annette Ogrodnik Corona. The cook book won the 2012 Gourmand Award for best Eastern European Cuisine book in the USA. Book will be for sale at the event too, for $29.95. Easton Farmers Market Winter Mart, 325 Northampton St. www.eastonfarmersmarket.com

Men’s Shopping Day: All day. 36 Downtown Easton businesses will offer extra incentives such as free gift wrapping and gift suggestions, along with munchies, live music and more. With every purchase, enter to win prizes and gift certificates from local merchants. Spend $50 at any given retailer and receive a coupon for a free appetizer or dessert at participating restaurants. Free metered parking in Downtown Easton on Saturday and Sunday this week too!

DJ Lineup: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., DJ Rabeka. 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., Tagteam Duo, DJ K-OZ and DJ Stitch. 3 to 5 p.m., DJ Mumbler. 5 to 7 p.m., DJ Mourning Glory. Used Grooves, 401 Northampton St. 610-252-8282 or www.usedgrooves.com

Book Reading and Signing: 1 to 3 p.m. "Limn the Mask" by Danielle Notaro. "Expect the unexpected while Danielle enlivens,caresses with words, and sings to you from her book of poems/prose. Joined by poet and editor Cleveland Wall with her poems and chapbooks. Limited seating. Quadrant Book Mart and Coffee House, 20 North Third St.

Art Gallery Crawl - A Kaleidoscope of Easton Art: 2 to 5:30 p.m. A free five-gallery crawl and art chat by Lehigh Valley Fun with Friends Meetup group. Itinerary includes RE:find from 2 to 2:30 p.m., Connexions Gallery from 2:45 to 3:15 p.m., the Grossman Gallery at Lafayette Collete from 3:30 to 4 p.m., Ingridable Ink from 4:15 to 4:45 p.m., and Charles Klabunde Galler from 4:45 to 5:30 p.m. Call Reggie at 484-860-0816 for more details or to RSVP or click here.

Free Texas Hold'em: 7 & 9 p.m. Registration is 15 minutes prior to each game. La Pazza, 1251 Ferry St. 610-515-0888 or www.lapazza.com

Anthem, DJ LAX: Band at 7 p.m., DJ at 10 p.m. Rivals Sports Bar & Nightclub, 5 Lehns Court. 610-923-7625 or www.rivalseaston.com

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

Maria Woodford: 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

Fleetwing: 9:30 p.m. Lafayette Bar, 15 North Fourth St. 610-252-0711 or www.lafayettebarjazz.com

Slug & Frisco: 10 p.m. 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

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

Sunday, December 22

Book Reading and Signing: 1 to 3 p.m. "Limn the Mask" by Danielle Notaro. "Expect the unexpected while Danielle enlivens,caresses with words, and sings to you from her book of poems/prose. Limited seating. Quadrant Book Mart and Coffee House, 20 North Third St.

Industry Night: 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.

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

Scene in Easton: Project Hope of Easton Holiday Dinner Celebration

By Christina Georgiou

About 400 were treated to a traditional turkey and ham holiday dinner with
all the trimmings, including mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, corn, green
beans, cranberry sauce, stuffing, gravy, and more Sunday afternoon
during the annual Project Hope of Easton Christmas dinner celebration
held in the banquet hall at Our Lady of Lebanon Maronite Catholic Church
in Downtown Easton.
Click on any photo for a full-size view

About 400 were treated to a turkey and ham dinner with all the trimmings Sunday afternoon at the banquet hall at Our Lady of Lebanon Maronite Catholic Church in Downtown Easton Sunday evening for Project Hope of Easton's annual holiday dinner and party.

With two seatings this year--one at noon and the other at 3 p.m.--the very happy crowd also received gifts including toys for children, new winter weather scarves, hats, and gloves, gently used clothing, bags of groceries, and lots of sweets and chocolate. Children were also treated to a visit and photos with Santa Claus.

"It's wonderful," said Project Hope Chairwoman Judy Walker of the day. "We get more organized every year. The two seatings helped tremendously."

Project Hope of Easton Chair Judy Walker, right,
with her husband Dr. Stanley Walker, also a key organizer
of the event, look out over a happy crowd at the
annual Christmas dinner celebration.

While Saturday's snowstorm left the dinner with about 45 volunteers, down from an expected 75, the event went off without a hitch.

Dinner guests are invited through local community organizations, word-of-mouth, and through flyers posted throughout the City of Easton.

"It's for anyone who feels they have a need," Walker said.

More than 40 individual and corporate local sponsors provide everything needed for the annual holiday celebration, now in its 27th year, from food for the dinner to desserts to toys to hand knit items to monetary funding.

"The kids just keep smiling and smiling," noted first-time volunteer Pat Gordon of Phillipsburg, NJ. "It's unreal."

For more information about Project Hope of Easton, click here to visit the organization's website.

A young guest enjoys a cookie.

Smiling volunteers served about 400 guests at the
annual Project Hope of Easton holiday dinner Sunday
afternoon.

Mike Metzgar of Wind Gap provided live music during the event.

Members of the Easton Fire Department visited the dinner to distribute
chocolate reindeer lollipops to kids.

Arthur Sickles and Yvonne Werkheiser, both of Easton,
show off their animated holiday hats

Project Hope volunteers April Shannon of Lopatcong, NJ and Shirley Falk
of Phillipsburg NJ had a sweet job, distributing desserts Sunday afternoon.

Stew Miller of Easton was delighted to receive an Eagles hat
at the Project Hope holiday dinner on Sunday.

It's hard to decide which to eat first, chocolate or cookies....

Thomas Thompson of Easton said he
shoveled "four tons of snow" before he could
attend the Project Hope dinner Sunday. He
added it was worth it.

Editor's note: Project Hope of Easton board member and organizer
Dr. Stanley Walker kindly offered me the opportunity to distribute some chocolate to guests
Sunday afternoon, which I took him up on, whereupon he took up my camera.
Credit for this photo goes to him. I'm on the upper left.

This Week in Easton, December 16 to 19

Snow?! Bah! Consider it seasonal scenery and enjoy it!

Monday, December 16

Easton Zoning Hearing Board meeting: 6:30 p.m. Easton City Hall, 1 South Third St., sixth floor.

Wilson Area School Board Finance Committee meeting: 7 p.m. Wilson Area Intermediate School, 2400 Firmstone St., Wilson Borough.
 
Williams Township Land Preservation Board meeting: 7 p.m. Williams Township Municipal Complex, 655 Cider Press Road, Easton (Williams Township)
 
EAHS Orchestra Holiday Concert: 7 p.m. In the auditorium, Easton Area High School, 2601 William Penn Highway, Palmer Township.

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

Tuesday, December 17

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

Bingo: Doors open at 5:30 p.m., bingo starts at 7 p.m. Refreshments available. Williams Township Fire Company, 2500 Morgan Hill Road, Williams Township. www.wtfireco.com

Safe Harbor Medical Clinic: 6 to 10 p.m. Free, for those without health insurance and in need of medical care. Advance appointments are requested. Safe Harbor Easton, 536 Bushkill Drive. To schedule an appointment, call 610-258-5540, email trogers@safeharboreaston.org, or stop by in person Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Easton Recreation Board meeting: 7 p.m. City Hall, city council chambers, third floor, 1 South Third St.

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

Trivia Night: 7 to 10 p.m. Hosted by comedienne Liz Russo. Rivals, 5 Lehn's Court. 610-392-2932 or www.rivalseaston.com

Bingo: 7 to 10:30 p.m. Our Lady of Lebanon Maronite Catholic Church, corner of South Fourth and Ferry streets.

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.

Wednesday, December 18

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

Williams Township Planning Commission meeting: 7 p.m. Williams Township Municipal Complex, 655 Cider Press Road, Easton (Williams Township)

Free Texas Hold'em: 7 & 9 p.m. Registration is 15 minutes prior to each game. La Pazza Bar, 1251 Ferry St. 610-515-0888 or www.lapazza.com

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

Waver Wednesday: 8:30 to 11:30 p.m. All new wave, dark wave, indie and electronica music with DJ Brad Scott Smith and DJ Mumbler. Two Rivers Brewing Company, 542 Northampton St. 610-829-1131 or www.tworiversbrewing.com

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

Thursday, December 19

Cops 'n Kids Reading Room open: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Children receive three free books for visiting. Easton Area Community Center, back entrance, 901 Washington St. 610-250-6562

Short Film Screening and DVD signing: 6 to 8 p.m. "To the Market", a short film by Maciek Albrecht featuring Eastonian Earl Ball, will be shown four times during this two hour event. Plus, the opportunity to purchase DVDs of the film and have them signed by Ball, who will also play his accordion live. The event also includes four drawings, one at each showing, for a free poster, coffee and desserts from the Quadrant, and items from Madame Mim's next door.  Quadrant Book Mart & Coffee House, 20 North Third St. 610-252-1188

Art Show: 6 to 9 p.m. Featuring artist Beth Brader. Free, food and drink available. Two Rivers Brewing Company, 542 Northampton St. 610-829-1131 or www.tworiversbrewing.com Click here for more details.  

"Growing Older": 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. With Stanley Walker MD, internal and geriatric medicine. Free and open to the public. Forks UCC, 4500 Sullivan Trail, Stockertown. Part of the monthly "Healthy Life" series sponsored by Easton Hospital. For more information, contact Forks UCC at 610-759-5676 or Easton Hospital at 610-250-4953 or click here.

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

Forks Township Board of Supervisors meeting: 7 p.m. Adoption of the final draft of the 2014 township budget is anticipated at this meeting. Forks Township Municipal Complex, 1606 Sullivan Trail, Forks Township.

Karaoke: 8 p.m. to midnight. "Come share and spread the holiday spirit! This is our last karaoke of the year. Don't you miss it!" La Pazza Bar, 1251 Ferry St. 610-515-0888 or www.lapazza.com

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

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

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

DJ Dub Shepherd: 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!