1. “Eleven Alive” CD Release Party

Friday from 9pm to 12am, Black & Blue, 683 Walnut St., Easton

The Doug Hawk Proposition recorded “Eleven Alive” at Black & Blue on 11/11/11 and will be returning to celebrate the finished product. Stop by to help celebrate this occasion. Check out the interview Doug did with Lehigh Valley Mirror last week. (There’s a little pocket guide interview in there, too. Good to get the little plugs out of the way.

2. The Laurie Berkner Band

Saturday at 1pm, Allentown Symphony Hall, 23 N. 6th St., Allentown

From Allentown Symphony Hall’s website: Get ready to jump, dance and sing along to the Laurie Berkner Band! Award-winning, best-selling children’s author and performer Laurie Berkner performs live with her band, as seen on Nick Jr. Berkner, described by Parenting Magazine as “the Pied Piper of preschool” uses lyrical themes, interactive music and movement to promote creativity and help foster an appreciation for music. The perfect event for your preschoolers and tons of fun for the whole family!

3. Mardi Gras First Friday

Friday from 6 to 10pm, Various Locations throughout Southside Bethlehem

February’s First Friday is alive with that “Carnival” feeling with sights and sounds that are sure to entice your senses! This month’s theme is Mardi Gras, and we are letting it all hang out! Collect festive beads as you hop from business to business, take advantage of “Fat” savings, new art exhibits, and entertainment across town….you would swear you were in New Orleans.

4. XVSK Score Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind

Saturday at 10:30pm, Red Cinema at SteelStacks, 101 Founders Way, Bethlehem

From the facebook event page: XVSK (John Kimock & Trevor Exter) perform a musical interpretation to the movie Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. This is a great movie with an incredible score and we are ready to turn it on its head.

 5. Closing Reception for Metamorphosis

Saturday from 2 to 5pm, Antonio Salemme Foundation, 524 Hamilton St., Allentown

Check out Metamorphosis before it’s too late. The Allentown Chen Arts Group show features the artwork of 23 local artists (including Janet Barna, Alison Bessesdotter, Veronica Budihas, Steven Condra, Eilleen Cressman-Reeder, Janet-Dean Cantalini. Zehra Follweiler, Heather Haas, Ana Hamilton, Kate Hughes, Kevin James, Chris P. Jones, EA Kafkalas, Tracey Lopez, Rafael Lopez Jr., Georgine Miller, Elly Moloy, Delano H. Morgan, Monica Santos-Narvaez, Tara Shuey, Michele Neifert, Ted Odossey, Susan Weaver, and Rob Williams). Works range from photography, art quilting, paintings, ceramics, and more. There will also be readings by local poets.

6. “On the Prowl for Animals”

Saturday between 12 and 4 pm, Moravian Museum of Bethlehem, 66 W. Church St., Bethlehem

Part of the Historic Bethlehem Partnership’s ongoing series for kids, the “Hunt for History Club.” From HBP’s website: Throughout history artists have been inspired by animals. Most cultures have crafted fine and decorative arts that include animal themes. Hunt for animal images in objects found in the Moravian Museum of Bethlehem’s collection to create your own craft! Don’t miss the exciting animal games!

7. Funeral Procession for the Bill of Rights

Saturday from 12 to 2pm, Corner of 2nd and Northampton Sts., Easton

Join with other concerned citizens to demonstrate against the December 31, 2011 passing of the National Defense Authorization Act, which allows for citizens to be detained with no charge and no trial. This could be you.

8. Super Bowl Party at Vintage Restaurant & Bar

Sunday at 5:30, Vintage Restaurant & Bar, 100 Clubhouse Dr., Easton

If you’d like to go out to watch the Super Bowl but a packed, noisy sports bar isn’t your idea of a good time, here’s your place. Watch the game on their 50″ plasma tv’s but have the option of taking a break and walking out on their patio and chilling with a view of the Delaware. There’s a Super Bowl Buffet, prizes, contests & giveaways, too.

9. Pearly Baker’s Ale House Super Bowl Chili Cook-Off

Sunday at 11:30am, Pearly Baker’s Ale House, 11 Centre Square, Easton

Be a part of an Easton tradition, the 17th Annual Pearly Baker’s Chili Cook-Off. $5 to get in gets you samples of chili from 25 different area restaurants. All money raised will be donated to the Center for Animal Health and Welfare. Get out early, eat some chili, and help them animals. But get there early, because this event gets packed, and often sells out.

In my experience, lunch is driven as much by agenda as by appetite. Whether the focus is social, business or an amenable confluence of both, The Mint gastropub scores high marks as an optimal environment for eating-with-intent—and enjoying every morsel of the experience.

Interior of The Mint Gastropub in Bethlehem, PA. Photo by Laini Abraham.

First of all, there’s the location, location, location. Situated close (but not too close) to Bethlehem’s bustling downtown, this bank-turned-restaurant offers the convenience of plentiful parking. Next, the vibrant décor, which pays playful tribute to the building’s original purpose without crossing the line into themed kitsch, sets an upbeat mood for a mid-day meal. And this is one place where you should definitely heed your mom’s advice and wash your hands before eating: The restroom area, tucked behind an unmarked door that blends into the wall, is a visual treat. Bright pop art-style currency prints adorn the hallway, and the ladies’ room counts among the most stylish in the Lehigh Valley. (Same for the men’s room, too. Yes, I peeked.)

Fully grounded in the kitchen, chef/owner Domenic “Mimmo” Lombardo started working at Stefano’s, his family’s popular Italian restaurant in Bethlehem, at age 11 before continuing a formal culinary training at Johnson and Wales University and the Italian Culinary Institute for Foreigners in Northern Italy. However, he broke with his gastronomic heritage when envisioning The Mint.

Domenic Lombardo, The Mint owner and chef.

Lombardo’s educational background included a stint as a student of architecture, and the former Bank of Pennsylvania building, constructed in 1955, offered a glorious mid-century Modern platform for serving contemporary comfort food—essentially familiar childhood favorites gussied up for adult tastes. Examples include butter-crumb topped truffled mac & cheese, with a lobster option, and “franks and beans” weekly specials that can translate into anything from smoked duck bratwurst and mashed white bean mash with cherry chipotle aioli to alder-smoked blueberry venison sausage with black-eyed peas and truffle mustard crème fraiche. Another retro-chic update is the Pork Belly “BLT” complemented by tomato confit and bacon aioli. You get the picture: Like a diner, but oh so much finer. And way more fun.

The adaptive reuse of the building included transforming the bank vault into a wine cellar, repurposing the drive-through teller portico as a patio that functions as a smoking lounge, and turning an office door into a communal table. Lombardo consulted designer Lisette Dell’Appa of First Impressions to execute his postmodern concept and give the place “a woman’s touch.” The punchy decor includes futuristic light fixtures, lime green and neutral stone-lined accent walls, orange bar stools, fifties-style chrome and grape-colored chairs in the dining room and the use of snake plants as living café curtains. “Shopping for something so over-the-top was a hoot,” says Dell’Appa. “I love doing kids’ fantasy rooms and this was like creating one for adults: A playroom with amazing food and beverages.”

Grilled Cheese served on a pretzel roll with tater tots at the Mint, Bethlehem, PA. Photo by laini Abraham.

When my two friends and I were seated, we were presented with not only a food menu, but lists of the more than a dozen rotating tap and approximately 150 bottled beers that focus on American craft brews—and the selections are ever-growing. A concise wine list offers most varieties by the glass, and a culinary focus on cocktails puts an innovative spin on martinis and mixed drinks. Although we passed on spirited libations, the freshly brewed Desert Blossom iced tea and the hearty house-blend coffee, served in a wonderfully oversized cup, were excellent.

Although both the lunch and dinner menus, we learned, would be receiving a seasonal revision in early February, selections that included wasabi pea soup, pasta with a short rib “ragu,” and substantial sandwiches, including a hefty Bank Burger, were completely appropriate to a chilly January day, and specials are featured daily. It was also refreshing to see vegetarian and vegan choices that did not seem like afterthoughts. Keep in mind when ordering that dishes can be customized via an insiders’ lingo, such as requesting “heart-attack style,” which puts fried egg and pork belly on a burger; “farm style,” which adds a full array of meats to a dish; or “al funghi,” which crowns your selection with mushrooms. Another one-of-kind feature at The Mint is a late evening “reverse happy hour” from 10 p.m. to midnight, offering discounted drinks and a menu of $7 items that changes weekly.

Peanut Butter and Banana Bread Pudding—a.k.a. The Elvis Presley—with bacon and whipped cream. Photo by Laini Abraham.

The “Mussels ’n’ Frites” I ordered were soulful and satisfying, with the hand-cut fries, steamed mussels—tender and tasty, albeit petite—and warm, chubby “drunken” cherry tomatoes piled on top of a base of chipotle lobster bisque. My companions’ selections included a top notch, no-filler crab cake sandwich served with super crispy crinkle-cut sweet potato fries and a bright lemon dipping sauce, and a grilled cheese sandwich on a pretzel roll oozing with three varieties of cheese, ripe tomato and a bowl piled with crunchy-on-the-outside/molten-in-the-inside potato tots. For dessert we shared the one item that would be carried over to the new menu: The Elvis Presley, a dense and decadent peanut butter and banana bread pudding that sports a thick-cut strip of candied bacon on top and a cloud of whipped cream on side. Even divided among three women, we were unable to finish off the generous serving.

Service throughout the meal was excellent. David, our server, was thoroughly attentive—and able to answer our questions about dishes and their preparation—without being intrusive. A combination gab fest and food quest in an aesthetically delightful setting is my ideal middle-of-the-day mini vacation.

The Mint Gastropub; 1223 West Broad Street, Bethlehem; 610-419-3810

Independent journalist Lenora Dannelke believes there’s more to life than writing about food. There’s also shopping, cooking and eating.

1.An Evening with Marc Bamuthi Joseph

Saturday, 8pm, Zoellner Arts Center, 420 East Packer Ave., Bethlehem

Art is often used to convey a message or thought of a person, and usually when we think of it we picture a physical piece of art work. Well, this presentation is not that. Marc Bamuthi Joseph joins us at the Zoellner Arts Center this weekend to perform selections from his work which blends dance, story, and visuals to address current issues. This is one of the most innovative artistic expressions that you can see and it’s very fortunate to have him perform here in the Lehigh Valley.

2. 6th Annual Chocolate Lovers’ Soirée

Saturday, 7pm to 10pm, Bank Street Annex, 316 Northampton St., Easton

You eat it when you’re happy. You eat it when you’re down. Or you just eat it because it’s delicious and you can’t get enough of it. I am, of course, talking about chocolate, and if you have a true passion for the silky sweet treat, then you must attend the Chocolate Lovers’ Soiree. This is the best excuse to indulge in the delectable dessert while getting to try new chocolate items you may have never had before. This weekend, don’t settle for the bag of kisses from the grocery store. Get out and love thy chocolate.

3. Dangers, Decisions and Love

Saturday, 2pm, Northampton Community College Main Campus- Kopecek Hall, 3835 Green Pond Rd., Bethlehem

Some people express themselves through writing, making art, or creating music. Others do it through dance. The Monarch Dance Company performs numbers inspired by society, politics, personal growth and love. Watch as these young adults express themselves with grace and purpose through physical movement under the direction of Tabatha Robinson-Scott. Seats are limited, so be sure to get there early.

4. Katie’s Pick - Bethlehem’s Winter Restaurant Week

Starts Sunday, Restaurant hours, Participating Restaurants, Bethlehem

It has been pretty well established that most of us enjoy good food for a good price, and these restaurant weeks are the perfect for achieving this. Allentown and Easton have had their weeks, and now its Bethlehem’s turn. Not only will you get great food, but some other stores in the city will be offering discounts when you bring in your receipt from a participating restaurant. Go get yourself something delicious and then treat yourself to a little retail therapy.

5. Opening Reception: Matt Nixon, “The Divided States of America”

Saturday, 7pm to 10pm, Connexions Gallery, 213 Northampton St., Easton

As per the event page, join us for the Opening Reception of Matt Nixon’s latest show, “The Divided States of America” in which Matt explores the impact of class and capitalism on the collective American psyche using comic book stylings and a humoristic approach. A unique view into the graphic novel that is Matt Nixon’s vision of the world around him.

6. Now Playing – The Artist

Friday, 5pm, 8pm, Saturday, 2:30pm, 6:45pm, 9pm, Sunday, 1:30pm, 5pm, 7:30pm, Civic Theater of Allentown, 527 North 19th St., Allentown

Did get to see the movie with all the Oscar buzz surrounding it? Well here’s another chance, and it’s not in your ordinary movie theater with the sticky floor. Nominated for 10 Academy Awards, this modern silent movie is about the beginning of the motion picture as audio was just beginning to be recorded, and what this meant for acclaimed silent actor George Valentin in the transition. More fitting for this show is that the Civic Theater was once a silent movie house. There aren’t many people out there that can say they’ve seen a movie like that before, but now is your chance to do so!

7. Sly Fox Brewery Beer Tasting Happy Hour

Friday, 6pm to 9pm, Blue Monkey Sports Bar & Restaurant, 1092-1094 Howertown Road, North Catasauqua

You’ll often hear people talk about what wines to pair with what foods and the compliments they produce, but food and drink pairings are not always just for wine. Pairing food with beer has become more and more popular over the past few years, and this Friday the Blue Monkey will be having a special beer tasting event. Six different brews from the Sly Fox Brewery will be on hand for sampling, each with a special food item to go with it. That’s a 6-course meal! Sly Fox Beer will also be available for purchase to take home, too.

8. Jungle Joe’s Wildlife Adventure

Sunday, 2pm, State Theatre, 453 Northampton St., Easton

It might be too cold to go to the zoo, but what if the zoo comes to you? OK, I don’t mean someone is going to show up at your house with elephants and zebras, but Jungle Joe will be at the State Theatre with some of furred, feathered, and scaled friends for you to see. Join him as he talks about his adventures to the Galapagos Islands, Indonesia and African Safari. Of course there will be live animal presentations, too.

9. Open Auditions for “A Resting Place”

Sunday, 2pm to 4pm, and Monday, 7pm to 9pm, Touchstone Theatre, 321 E. 4th St., Bethlehem

Have you ever dreamed of being s star? Well why not test out your acting skills and audition for a part in “A Resting Place.” This play is set in Bethlehem and takes place during the civil war, but they need performers before they can get started. There will be a variety of roles to fill from speaking roles, to singing, and other musicians or special talents. You never know what the directors will want, so go take your chance and try out. You just might end up the next big Lehigh Valley celebrity.

A new year tends to bring on new thinking. You probably already know that most supermarkets will take your plastic shopping bags and recycle them, and that many drycleaners will take your wire hangers. But if you’re doing some clean-up and cleaning out on the weekends and encountering things you don’t know what to do with, we have some suggestions.

1. Did you know that the Lehigh Valley has its very own business, AERC Recycling Solutions, which recycles end-of-life electronic items and pledges a zero-landfill policy. How cool is that? The company is based in Allentown and operates a weekly Friday collection events through Com-Cycle for consumers.

2. Turning Point of the Lehigh Valley. The organization, which provides services for abused victims and their children, is looking for gently used bath towels. Andrew Kleiner is spreading the word online about the organization’s towel drive; the aim is to collect 400. You can also drop them off at the organization’s administrative offices at 444 E. Susquehanna St., Allentown, on Mondays through Fridays, between 9am and 4pm; 610-437-3369. Don’t have bath towels to spare? Turning Point has a wish list of needs right on its website, and items include twin-sized blankets, batteries, battery-powered lanterns, deodorant, used cell phones, and more.

3. Goodwill. The Lehigh Valley has three locations—Bethlehem, Allentown and Fogelsville—of this nationally-recognized store. You probably know you can donate gently used clothing and household items to Goodwill, and purchase the same at its thrift store locations. But did you know that Goodwill is also known for its job training and employment placement services for those who are facing obstacles to employment? Your dollars spent help create new opportunities for people who need them.

4.  R.M.C. Tech of the Lehigh Valley will accept iPhones. “We take them apart and learn/use the components,” says Ryan Critchett, company founder. Although we don’t usually advocate big box stores, Best Buy and Staples will take your old cell phones, along with ink and toner cartridges, rechargeable batteries, wires, cords, and cables and other electronic items.

5. UPS will take those annoying styrofoam fillers called packaging peanuts, so don’t throw them out.

Looking for something else to recycle? Check out 1-800-Recycling‘s web site for more information. You type in your zip code and then you can search for places to recycle everything from yard waste to used motor oil to solvents to carpet and more. Of course, there’s also Freecycle, which aims to keep things out of landfills and find them new homes—all for free.

Share your favorite recycling spots and secrets with us. Inquiring minds wanna know!

Carrie Havranek is a writer in Easton who grew up with a mom who donated old towels to our dog’s groomer and return packaging peanuts to UPS and clothes hangers to the drycleaners, long before the word “green” meant anything other than a color.

Are you afraid of your kitchen? Do you want to cook good meals, but you’re not really sure where to start? Does it seem like there’s not enough time in the day to figure out how to plan meals? Is take-out your best friend? If, like many of the energetic duo Quinn Asteak and Robyn Youkilis’s clients, the answer is yes—and you don’t want it to be—then you’ve come to the right place.

The friends have started {Healthy} Cooking Camp, an outgrowth of their individual health coach/life coach practices and schooling at the Institute for Integrative Nutrition. Asteak is a native of Easton but the pair live in New York City. Drawn together by their love of cooking healthy food and holistic philosophy toward health and wellness, they’re launching their live cooking class on Wednesday, January 25, at 7pm-9pm; classes will run for three consecutive Wednesdays.

They’ve taken a slightly different approach to schooling novices. Rather than a strictly skills-oriented lesson, it’s outcome-based. Want more energy? Need to focus more at work? Looking to slim down a bit? Trying to fit cooking into your on-the-go lifestyle? Their four classes are designed around these themes and will get you chopping kale and sauteeing onions in a jiffy. If you’re motivated by any of these ideals, chances are this will appeal to you. As Asteak describes the camp, “There will be a big focus on healthy ingredients. Ingredients that bring you into balance, give you energy and help you naturally slim down. We won’t tell you exactly WHAT to eat, but will give you the 411. There is so much information out there and as health coaches it’s our job to do all the research,” says Asteak.

Scallions & Quinoa, Simple and Healthful meal by Quinn Asteak and Robyn Youkilis

The pair want to demystify the process of cooking, and help people make the right choices for their own lives. In our pop culture, there’s an abundance of information about food, health, diets, and cooking. We live in a world where Food Network runs on people’s televisions 24/7, where chefs have the benefit of staff members who prep veggies and mix sauces. Online, food blogs have a tremendous following. And there’s a new diet born for every minute there’s a sucker born, as the old saying goes. None of this means anything unless you have the knowledge base that helps you to synthesize what you’re reading. And if you don’t know how to cook, you’re at a distinct disadvantage; the kitchen can be a daunting place. Their camp is designed to mitigate that—you’ll be able to tell your swiss chard from your kale, your quinoa from millet, in no time.

When asked what she feels one of the most important things people need to know about cooking, Asteak says “that it does not have to be a major production. Each dinner doesn’t have to be Thanksgiving. You can easily get a healthy meal on the table in 20 minutes if you have the right ingredients around.” They also stress the importance of tasting your food as you go, and adjusting seasonings, ingredients, salt, as needed.

Apple and Cabbage Salad

One of their favorite teaching moments involves explaining cooking in fashion terms. “We have this analogy that quinoa is like the little black dress of food, vegetables are the jeans and t-shirt and herbs/spices are your accessories.  And, boy oh boy, do we love some statement jewelry. Playing around with different flavor profiles to completely makeover a basic dish is probably our favorite thing to do,” Asteak says. It’s also the kind of thing that encourages experimentation in the kitchen, and increases your confidence. It also teaches you what doesn’t work, too—mistakes are all a normal, fun part of the process.

So how does it work? You sign up for the classes, and receive an email with instructions for signing up to the service (which includes a user name and password), along with a grocery list for the evening’s meal. If you can’t make the live stream, no problem. Just download the class when you can, and the videos are yours to keep.

Ready to go? Asteak and Youkilis are offering a discount of $50 for Little Pocket Guide readers. Just make sure you enter “pocketguide” at check out.

Carrie Havranek is a writer in Easton who hasn’t been to camp since she was about 12 but is going to take a baking class at CIA in March.

1. LehighValleywithLove & Wink Mag Prom for MS

Saturday, 8pm to 2am, Molly’s Irish Pub & Grill, 4 E. Fourth St., Bethlehem

Have you ever wanted to go back in time and relive some of those special moments from high school, like prom? Well here’s your chance to do it all over again! LehighValleywithLove.com in conjunction with Wink Magazine is holding a Prom to raise money for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. As if raising money for a good cause isn’t enough reason to go, the theme for the even is Fantasy Time Machine which means you get to wear the prom outfit of your dreams. Try something mondern, go eco-friendly, pull out that taffeta mess from your first prom, or make something entirely new!

2. Art Opening: Lehigh Valley Photo Project by Brandon Wunder

Friday, 5:30pm to 8:30pm, Blink Optical Boutique, 524 N 19th St Frnt, Allentown

Our world is constantly changing shape, and the photography of Brandon Wunder has captured some of these changes in Allentown. This series features the industry of the area, as well as the destruction and creation of the coming arena, and nearby houses and shops. 2012 marks Allentown’s 250th birthday and this is a great way to see what molded this area, and why we should preserve it.

3. Four-Part Climate Series: Part 1, Earth as Art: Examining Our Footprint

Saturday, 10am to 1pm, Nurture Nature Center, 518 Northampton St., Easton

Wherever we go, we leave a mark on those places. Just as we leave footprints in the sand on a beach, we also leave a “foot print” on our environment through our daily activities. Unfortunately, there are no waves to wipe them away, and over time, they build up, and it is up to us to wash them away. In part one of a four-part series, Tom Maxfield, artist and environementalist, will be holding a free workshop exploring use of our land as modern art. This examination of our environmental footprint through artistic expression is a refreshing change from the standard viewpoint and an enlightening look at how we impact our world.

4. Katie’s Pick – Indoor Winter Farmer’s Market

Saturday, 12pm to 4pm, ArtsQuest Center at the Steel Stacks (First floor), 101 Founders Way, Bethlehem

You might think it’s crazy to go to a farmer’s market in the middle of winter, but fear not, for this one is indoors. It’s usually about this time of year when we start to crave fresh foods after being cooped up from the cold, some grocery store items just don’t have the same flare that market products do. Fortunately, there is now an indoor farmer’s market so you don’t have to brave the cold while picking out your favorite items. Get fresh goods from the same local vendors you love in the warmer months. What a great way to make your winter cuisines as fresh as they can be.

5. William Marley & His Paddle People

Sunday, 12:30pm, St. John’s Lutheran Church, 330 Ferry St., Easton

You don’t have to hit Broadway or a fancy theater all the time for special and unique stage performances. Sometimes you can find them right here in the Lehigh Valley. This Sunday, St. John’s Lutheran Church will be host to William Marley’s one act play, In Sepia Tone, with his “paddle people.” William Marley is a playwright, author, and beloved Easton native.

6. bang! snap, ting, thump, buzzzz, SHRIEK: CLOSING PARTY for _TECHNIFYING

Friday, 8pm to 2am, Soft Machine Gallery, 725 North 15th St. Suite 7, Allentown

It’s been an electrfying art series for a little while, but now it’s closing time for _TECHNIFYING. This unqiue exhibit combining art and electronics will be ending this weekend, but that doesn’t mean they’ll slip out quietly. This Friday will be their closing party complete with food, drinks, and music from David Kresge of SOARS. If you haven’t seen this show yet, then this is your last chance, so go and see what all the buzzing is about.

7. XVSK. Exter and Kimock. Cello and Drums. Great music.

Friday, 10pm to 12am, Porter’s Pub, 700 Northampton St., Easton

There’s more than one way to play the cello, the performance at Porters’ Pub this Friday will certainly show you that. Trevor Exter brings us his unusual method of playing and it isn’t anything like you’ve seen before. Rarely does one see a cello plugged in like an electric guitar or someone beat on it like a drum. This style will have dancing through the bar as this music is meant to be felt and moved to, not just listened to. This is not your grandma’s symphony cellist, and you won’t want to miss this show.

8. Blue Jean at SteelStacks

Saturday, 8pm to 11pm, ArtQuest Center at SteelStacks (Creative Commons Stage), 101 Founders Way, Bethlehem

Acoustic music always has such an appealing sound to it so when the opportunity to hear it comes around, you should take it. The performance by Blue Jean is no different either. This is the big debut for the acoustic rock duo and even bigger show for them. It’s also a free show, so come on out give these guys a big warm welcome at the ArtsQuest Center.

9. Easton Restaurant Week

Sunday, Regular Restaurant Hours, Participating Restaurants, Easton

Starting Sunday, it’s Easton’s turn for Restaurant Week. Various local restaurants will be having special lunch and dinner features and specials to highlight their culinary individuality. Some of these places could hang with any major foodie city fare, and how convenient is it to have that kind of edible culture right in our own neighborhood? Some these restaurants have items that you would be hardpressed to find elsewhere and now is a great chance to try some of them.

By Laini Abraham and Katie Vogel

1. Art Works January Exhibit Featuring Artist and Curator Anthony Donnelly

Friday, 5:30pm to 7:30pm, Fegley’s Burrito Works, 818 W. Hamilton St., Allentown

It’s a new year and that means another year for local artists to grow. To help showcase some of these artists, Allentown Art Works will be giving allowing a new artist create their own show each month. This is a great opportunity to see how the creator would show their work, and try some samples of Burrito and Coffee Works food too!

2. Fox Barter Bash and Fondue Dip-Off

Saturday, 7pm to 11pm, Fox Environmental Center, 100 Illicks Mill Rd., Bethlehem

Let’s face it. Most of us love chocolate or cheese (or both) and it’s even better when it’s melted. Join the members of the Fox Environmental Center for some delectable melted goodness while supporting the recently opened center. If the being seen is your thing then you’ll also be pleased to know that the columnist of the The Scene in The Morning Call to cover the event, so you’ll have your chance to have your name in the paper as well.

3. Aesop’s Fables Comes to Life

Sunday, 3pm, Zoellner Arts Center, 420 East Packer Ave., Bethlehem

Remember those wonderful fables we learned as a child? Well, now is your chance to see them come to life on stage. New York City’s contemporary dance troupe, RIOULT, along with new music by Lehigh’s Paul Salerni and performed by the Monocacy Chamber Orchestra conducted by Donald Spieth, will tell you the tale of the Tortoise and the Hare like you’ve never seen it before. This would be a great chance to show your kids the same stories you grew up with in an amazing setting.

4. March for Economic Justice

Saturday, 10am to 12pm, Centre Square, Easton

Come out and support Occupy Easton’s first march of the year. The goal of this march is to reach out to people in Easton’s neighborhoods, including senior citizens, and raise awareness about the types of inequities currently at play in our society. With awareness, and work, hopefully solutions can be created. Come out. Be heard.

5. Katie’s Pick - Downtown Allentown Restaurant Week

Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Participating restaurant hours, Downtown Allentown

Everyone loves food and everyone loves a good deal, and restaurant week always gives you the best of both. Downtown Allentown has plenty of great restaurants to choose from, and if you have ventured to one lately this just might the best time to go. So if you’re stuck at home and wondering what to eat or reheat, then maybe you should take advantage of this opportunity to try something really good.

6. A Taste of Black History

Sunday, 12:30 to 2:30pm, Trinity Episcopal Church, 44 W. Market St., Bethlehem

Live music, slide show, book talk, buffet and a very special birthday cake. From the event’s pdf: Meet the authors of “Country Cooking, City Style,” the story of celebrated cook Edna “Ma” Bragg that only her daughters could tell! This is a cookbook/memoir (to be published March 5, 2012) of a Tennessee farm girl who comes to New York City as part of The Great Migration. Ma Bragg was one of four million blacks who settled in Northern cities between 1920 and 1940. Enjoy her story and enjoy her food as you learn how churches created a home away from home for new arrivals separated from their families down South.

7. Lehigh University MLK Jr. Week

Monday through Friday, Varying times and venues, Bethlehem

This coming week marks the annual celebration of a man who fought for peace and equality in our country. Events will be held throughout the week on Lehigh University’s campus and other areas in Bethlehem to honor Martin Luther King, Jr. See musical performances, video footage, and ceremonies honoring others in the Lehigh Valley who also fight for social justice. Honor and celebrate the life of man who fought to make this country a better place.

8. Tribute to Pop Royalty: Michael Jackson & Prince

Saturday, 7pm to 10pm, and Sunday, 3pm to 6pm, Third Street Alliance, 41 North Third St., Easton

The Easton School Of Rock is back and this time they are celebrating pop music royalty. Come listen to these talented kids as they cover music from Michael Jackson and Prince. This isn’t just any ordinary school musical production. These kids can really put on a show you won’t want to miss.

9. LV Artists Community’s Inaugural Gathering

Monday, 7pm to 10pm, Allentown Brew Works, 812 W. Hamilton St., Allentown

Calling all Lehigh Valley artists! The Valley continues to grow as a community for artists and this Monday is your chance to get together with other local artists. Come out to the Allentown Brew Works to grab a beer with new people, make new friends, and network with other creative beings.

Did you like this list? Please consider sharing it with your friends. Have a great weekend!

1. Holiday recuperation. If necessary, January provides you with a full-scale reason to do as little as possible in effort to recuperate from the holidays. Many of us become exhausted from the socialization and traveling the holidays typically entail. It’s natural and essential that we turn inward and hibernate a bit. You’ve earned the right to a little down time. Catch up on your reading and sleeping.

2. Winter activities. Okay, so we don’t have any real snow just yet, but there’s plenty of man-made snow at the ski resorts such as Blue Mountain and Jack Frost Big Boulder in the Poconos. Not into skiing? It’s still not too cold or too inclement for winter walks, hikes, and bike rides: you can easily go for winter hikes without fear of freezing or falling on slippery surfaces. We’re loaded with places in the Valley for good walks and hikes, whether that’s parks, rails to trails, or taking an invigorating walk with friends around your neighborhood.

3. Time to clean house. January is the perfect time to reorganize, re-prioritize, think through how things generally work around your house and in your family, however you define that. In our house, this means Christmas toys need a new home, so that means new storage solutions. I’m dreaming of a day when I can hire Easton-based Chris Fairchild of InOrder to Organize to come and do my office and our walk-in closet, or at the very least get one of his smart organizational systems to put just inside our front door.

4. January means catching up on television programs you’ve fallen behind on. It means blitzing and watching the entire first season of Battlestar Gallactica, as we did a few years ago when we came to the program about a season behind the rest of the free world. It means scheduling marathon sessions of your favorite sequels, prequels, trilogies (Harry Potter, Star Wars, Lord of the Rings) and not feeling the slightest bit of guilt about it.

5. Huge sales. For anyone who has money left over, January wants it. For as long as I can remember, it’s typically a great time to buy furniture (Monarch, in downtown Easton, always has big sales. And it’s the time when the department stores have those things that used to be called “white sales”—y’know, bed linens, pillows, bath towels, etc.

How about you? What’s your favorite post-holiday ritual for January?

Carrie Havranek is a writer in Easton who wants a good snowfall so she can love January even more.

1. Jesse Cook

Saturday, 8pm, The State Theater, 453 Northampton St., Easton

This January chill may have us hiding from the cold, but that doesn’t mean you can’t keep warm. Why not spice up your evening with rumba flamenco master Jesse Cook at the State Theater this saturday? This Juno award winning entertainer is known for his audience-capturing shows that have people dancing and singing along. Tickets are $25 to $30, but be sure you get them soon, because this show will probably sell out!

2. First Friday Dance Party!

Friday, 10pm to 2pm, Your Welcome Inn, 325 S. New St., Bethlehem

I know it feels like hibernation season, but this event will have you moving your feet. It’s a First Friday Dance Party where you can enjoy a few good drinks, and dance the to your heart’s content. Let go of the stresses of having to go back to work after the holiday and really unwind. Dancing makes you feel good, so get out there with your best moves even if they are the lawnmower and the shopping cart.

3. Free Salsa Drumming and Dance Class

Friday, 6pm to 7pm, YOUniversity of Music and Arts, 700 Evans St., Bethlehem

You know that secretly you have always wanted to learn how to salsa dance, but have never taken lessons. Maybe you find yourself drumming out beats on office desktop when no one is looking, too. Well this is your chance to learn how to do both, for free, at this Salsa Drumming and Dance class.  As I said before, dancing makes you feel good, so why not learn a new but classic way to move, and start the weekend off right.

4. Katie’s Pick – Ice Cream Wars

Saturday, 12pm to 2pm, DaVinci Science Center, 3145 Hamilton Blvd. Bypass, Allentown

I scream! You scream! We all scream for . . . science? OK, well how about making ice cream with science? It’s always fun when science and food come together (otherwise known as molecular gastronomy), especially when it’s that all-American classic, ice cream. Watch as teams compete in Ice Cream Wars to make the best tasting ice cream using liquid nitrogen to create the frozen treat ready to serve in just minutes! It doesn’t get much cooler than this. Even if you’re not the science type it’s ok, because you can still sample the ice cream.

5. Family Circus Trio

Saturday, 10 pm, Porters’ Pub, 700 Northampton St., Easton

Check out this Valley-grown rock & funkalicious band in one of Easton’s cozies little pubs. Perfect for winter. And if Peter Lambdin happens to be working, please tell him that laini sent you and that he really shouldn’t be so crotchety. Check out the Porters’ legendary Mug Club while you’re there. Just look up.

6. Happy New Year First Friday

Friday, 6 to 10pm, Various Locations throughout SouthSide Bethlehem

Not only is it the First Friday of the month but also the First Friday of the Year! That means that all of your favorite places in Bethlehem will be having sales, specials, entertainment and more! Get a free photo from Harris Wedding Photography, enjoy a complimentary margarita with an entree purchase at General Zapata’s, or visit the Universal Institute for their unique combination of art gallery, boutique, and brain injury rehabilitation program. Get your new year off to a great start with some of the wonderful things Bethlehem has to offer!

7. James Supra Blues Band

Saturday, 10pm to 1am, The Pattenburg House, 512 County Road 614, Asbury, NJ

There is something about the Blues that almost everyone can appreciate, and the James Supra Blues Band is no exception to the rule. Watch the Lehigh Valley based group perform across the river in Asbury at The Pattenbrug House as they put on a classic show. Don’t forget to try the food and drinks at the Pattenburg, too!

8. Tick Tock Tick Tock, Look at our Clocks

Saturday, 12pm to 4pm, The Moravian Museum, 66 West Church Street, Bethlehem

Time is a relative thing but have you ever stopped and wondered about the history of time keeping devices? Who invented the clock? Well here is your best chance to take a look back at the history of time keeping. You’ll also have the chance to see some antique clocks at the Moravian Museum as well build your own time keeping device and other fun activities. Children get in for free with the purchase of an adult ticket for $7, and this would be a great way to teach your youngster about time!

9. Hit the Sales in Our Downtowns

All Weekend, Various Stores & Times, Throughout the Lehigh Valley

Usually we associate all the big sales for the holidays with Black Friday, but what about after the holidays? The gift-giving season may be over, but your favorite local stores are still open for business, and they are eager to move their winter merchandise so they bring out their spring line. Whether you are in Easton, Bethlehem, Allentown, or anywhere in the Lehigh Valley, there is a local shop near you with a sale. Get a present for the next birthday coming up, give something to yourself for making it through another holiday season, or really get a jump on the game and start your holiday shopping for next December. You’ll be helping a local business and who doesn’t love a bargain? It’s a win-win situation!

“Happy New Year First Friday” image designed by Christiän Weber. Christian Weber is the event graphic designer for the downtown Bethlehem association and has created designs for many Bethlehem businesses, including hair by eskandalo!, loose threads boutique, and save the kales!

By Laini Abraham and Katie Vogel

1. Allentown NYE Gala and Community Celebration

Saturday, 7pm to 12am, Holiday Inn Center City, 904 Hamilton Street, Allentown

I suppose you could drive into New York City for New Year’s Eve, but why would you want to when you have Allentown’s NYE Gala to go to. Avoid the masses of traffic, and enjoy cocktails, dining, and dancing while also celebrating Allentown’s 250th birthday. There’s even more fun outside with fire dancers, ice carvers, carriage rides, a hot chocolate station and musical entertainment. Of course, no NYE would be complete without the countdown to midnight where you can watch the ball, or in our case, bell, drop.

2. Start Making Sense NYE Celebration with Great White Caps

Saturday, 8pm to 11pm, Musikfest Café, 101 Founders Way, Bethlehem

Maybe you’d prefer to celebrate the New Year by going back a few with Start Making Sense and Great White Caps. This Talking Heads tribute band is a popular group, always providing one of the most energy-filled performances you could ask for. Tickets are $15 in advance. But don’t wait, this could sell out soon.

3. Peeps Fest with the Peeps Chick Drop & Fireworks

Saturday, 12pm to 5pm, ArtsQuest Center, 101 Founders Way, Bethlehem

Midnight can be a little late for some of the kids to stay up, but that doesn’t mean they can’t ring in the New Year, and the Peeps Fest is packed with celebratory fun. Enjoy a scavenger hunt, photo opportunities, and various other activities throughout the day. Then at 5:15, in traditional NYE fashion, enjoy the Peeps Chick Drop and a fireworks display to top it all off!

4. 2012 NYE Party

Saturday, 2pm to 9pm, The Crayola Factory, Centre Square, Easton

Still drawing up ideas on what to do with the family? Why not check out all the New Year’s Eve fun at The Crayola Experience! This event will feature artist performances, creative exhibits and live music, including the Easton School of Rock. Then gather outside later for the crayon drop and fireworks display. Tickets for the event will be $19 in advance and $23 at the door.

5. Katie’s Pick: Jimmy and The Parrots – Holiday Parrot Party

Friday, 6:30pm, ArtsQuest Center, 101 Founders Way, Bethlehem

Already have plans for New Years Eve? Well then you can still go out on Friday, and with all this cold weather, why not enjoy a beach time favorite with Jimmy and The Parrots, the Jimmy Buffet cover band. Spend the night feeling like you’re in the islands, enjoying a cheeseburger in paradise. We might be getting to the middle of winter, but there’s no better way to warm up than thinking about the beach.

6. NYE Party at Sangria

Saturday, 9pm to 12am, Sangria Restaurant, 840 W. Hamilton Street, Allentown

Watch the ball drop and enjoy some delicious food at Sangria Restaurant this year. You can get in early or stay late and enjoy their dinner menu from 4pm to 1am or opt for the 4 course Chef’s menu complete with wine pairings for a truly classy evening. Music will be provided by DJ Express and VIP tables will be available. Reservations are not necessary but if you want to reserve a table you’ll have to hurry up because they will fill up faster than your wine glass.

7. Psych CD Release Party at the Riverside

Saturday, 9:30pm to 2am, Riverside Bar & Grill, 5801 North Delaware Dr., Easton

Ring in the New Year with the Psych CD Release Party. Voted “Best Original Band” at the 13th Lehigh Valley Music Awards, PSYCH is quickly gaining popularity locally and abroad. Free “Psych 101” CDs will be given away as well as a t-shirt raffle. In traditional Riverside fashion, a bonfire will also be built to ring in the New Year as well as a champagne toast. Come on down and check out some of the recent renovations that have been made too!

8. Mario Swings in the New Year

Friday, 7pm to 9:30pm, Upstairs at the Café, 221 W. Broad St., Bethlehem

If you’re looking for a more low-key atmosphere to celebrate New Year’s Eve, why not stop in at the Café when Mario Swings in the New Year. Enjoy music by Mario & Carlo Acerra, and Patti Sakdiponephong with special guest Sonja Fenstermacher to stop by. This is a nice way to enjoy the New Year in a more relaxed environment.

9. First Day Hike on the Delaware Canal Towpath

Sunday, 1pm, Wy-Hit-Tuk Park, Rt. 611, Easton

New Year’s Eve might be over, but it’s just the beginning for those resolutions! Start the new year off on the right foot with the First Day Hike along the towpath. Hike will leave from Wy-Hit-Tuk park, 2.3 miles south of Easton on Rt. 611 at 1 pm, and will be less than 3 miles in length. Remember to dress warmly!

Be safe this Holiday!

Many people will be out for parties this weekend and we would like everyone to be as safe as possible. Please make sure you designate a responsible driver for the ride home, have a place to stay the night, or call a cab or friend to drive you if you can’t. Holidays are a lot less fun when something bad happens. Here is a list of local cab companies that can get you home this weekend. Go ahead and put them in your phone right now!

Anytime Taxi by J & J – (610) 439-9241
Quick Service Taxi Co Inc – (610) 434-8132
Premium Taxi – (610) 433-7550
Easton Taxi Inc – (610) 258-9141
Tipsy Tow (by AAA) – 1-800-222-4357 (1-800-AAA-Help) *not available in all areas

Photo by Laini Abraham. Jon Fadem and Jonathan Braun play with Start Making Sense at the Musikfest Café. Shot last summer.