Note from Laini: Here is an event that’s happening this weekend in SouthSide Bethlehem. Cool art, live music, great local shopping opportunity. It’s all there. So, put it in your calendar now, tell your friends, and support this collective of people who’s trying to help, in more ways than one. 

This year’s NoShows Artist & Music Collective event, “Making Spirits Brighter”, we will bring together nine artists from the Lehigh Valley to Brooklyn, New York. The show will take place at the Blue Sky Café in Bethlehem, PA. Founded in 2007, by Melanie Smith and Ariana Abud, The NoShows is a collective of artists and musicians who were brought together through their mutual love of art and their common desire to do outreach into the community and the world. The NoShows Collective has expanded and grown into a well-respected organization which uses art and music to inspire and ignite the minds of others, to create hope within the Bethlehem community and beyond. Their goal is to help raise awareness about local and global service projects and organizations in need through music and art.

Some of the mediums that will be shown this year include: embroidered jewelry, illustration, photography, paintings and mosaic art. For many of the artists, this will be the first time they’ll be showing their work to such a large audience. The featured works are sure to to intrigue and inspire anyone who appreciates art and music. The event will also feature live music, with sets from both DJ Discrete of Bethlehem and Space Station Beyond, a drum and bass duo from Brooklyn, NY. In celebration of their 5th anniversary, The Blue Sky Café will be providing light refreshments.

This year’s NoShows Collective will be donating 20% of all artists’ sales and also 100% of the door to Joshua Kehler’s Seva Project India to help fight human trafficking. Seva Project India is part of the Off the Mat into the World project.

The NoShows Artist & Music Collective are animal lovers and so they will also be teaming up with The Center for Animal Health and Welfare to collect kennel supply donations and provide information about the Shelter’s adoptable animals. They are in need of lots of supplies. If you are able to donate something and would like a better of idea of what they need, here is their wish list.

The NoShows Collective feels that art and music can unite a community and bring together like minded people as well break social barriers to make this world a better place to live in. They continue to seek new artists who would like to be a part of their mission.

By Rachel Hogan

Once your critical storm preparations are done it is helpful to tell your friends, family, neighbors and co-workers what you have done to prepare so they can get ready too. It’s also a good time to start tracking the storm and spreading word of its potential impacts to others. Below are some important tools you can use to understand the storm’s wind and rainfall potential, and to make sure your preparations are sufficient:

1. Local forecast offices of the National Weather Service also post emergency management briefings that provide information about the storm’s strength, timeline and its potential impacts.  Here is the link for the most current briefing from the forecast office in Mt. Holly, NJ/Philadelphia, which forecasts for the Lehigh Valley:  http://www.erh.noaa.gov/phi/briefing/packages/current_briefing.pdf. The office is updating this briefing daily during this storm.

2. Precipitation potential:  The National Weather Service regularly updates the potential for rainfall across the country for the coming five days. This graphic is updated every twelve hours, so check regularly.

3. River crests:  If you are interested in understanding how high rivers might rise during flooding events, you can view the hydrograph that is produced by the National Weather Service.  The hydrograph shows the current water height at specific points along the river where there are river gauges that measure water level.  The hydrograph also forecasts out the next 72 hours in many places, showing you how high the river might reach. As of early Friday morning, the hydrograph for Easton, PA, shows no flooding in the forecast, because the storm impacts are more than 72 hours away.  Check back regularly in the next few days for updates as the waters rise.  To find the hydrographs, search for the “Advanced Hydrologic Prediction Service” website and click on the “River Forecasts” tab.  Once there, hover your mouse over your region, and you can zoom in to your area and find the river gage nearest you.   Here’s the hydrograph for Easton:  http://water.weather.gov/ahps2/hydrograph.php?wfo=phi&gage=estn4.  Once here, you can move up and downstream and see impacts at other points along the river.  You can also search from here for more information about historic crests, and find out the level at which flood waters start to cause difficulty in your area.

4. Hurricane Track information:  The National Hurricane Center regularly updates a series of images that explain the track and force of active hurricanes. Check here for an image of the track of the storm as well as other important information, including any active warnings.

5. Email updates from the National Weather Service:  You can sign up for a variety of email updates about different weather topics.  You can select to receive advisories from the National Hurricane Center about Atlantic or Pacific hurricanes, among other topics.  The hurricane updates provide detailed information about the current location and strength of the hurricane, along with warnings for areas where it is expected to arrive. To sign up, start here: https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USNWS/subscriber/new?preferences=true.

6. NOAA Weather Radio: The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has its own All-Hazards Radio broadcasts, which can be heard on “NOAA Weather Radios,” available for purchase at many retail outlets and department stores, as well as sporting goods stores and online retailers. Regular radios will not receive the NOAA All Hazards broadcasts, which air on one of seven VHF frequencies from 162.400 MHz to 162.550 MHz. There are many different kinds of NOAA Weather Radio models available, including battery operated, hand-crank powered versions and versions that can also charge cell phones. Find yourself a high-quality NOAA Weather Radio that does not require electricity, so you can stay up to date on alerts and warnings during severe events, when power is out.

For additional hurricane information, you can check out the Federal Emergency Management Agency information about how to take action before, during and after a hurricane: http://www.ready.gov/hurricanes.  The National Weather Service warns us that storms like Sandy can produce extended power outages, so advance planning is essential to make sure you can weather the storm safely. To help your neighbors and community fare better during this storm, please share this post with others.

How are you tracking the storm? Please share any useful tools you use below.

Rachel Hogan Carr is the director of the Nurture Nature Center in Easton, PA, a non-profit organization that has been working for the past several years to help local communities address flood risk.  You can follow them on Facebook or visit www.nurturenaturecenter.org. 

By Rachel Hogan Carr

Hurricane Sandy has been making headlines in the news, and for a reason.  The potential impacts of a significant hurricane on the East Coast of the United States are serious, and include major river and coastal flooding, power outages and wind damage. Current forecasts show the storm arriving in the Northeast early next week, and forecasts will become more confident and more accurate as each day passes.

Starting to follow news of the storm now is a good idea. The National Weather Service Forecast Office for our region is in Mt. Holly, NJ. Each day, they produce a new briefing about the storm that explains what is expected and how people should consider responding. The most recent briefing is here: http://www.erh.noaa.gov/phi/briefing/packages/current_briefing.pdf.

Talk to your neighbors and family about what they are doing to get ready, and start making plans to prepare. The final track of the storm is not certain, but we want to be ready and prepared should this large and well-organized storm come close to our region.

Below are some general preparedness steps we shared during Hurricane Irene, that apply to Hurricane Sandy as well. What steps have you taken? Which do you still need to complete? Let us know.

1. Get ready, and tell others what you’ve done.

One of the most important things for motivating people to prepare is to know what their friends, families and neighbors are doing. So spread the word: be specific, and tell each other how you are preparing. It might help you think of things you forgot, and it might encourage your neighbor to take care of their property. It could also help make the neighborhood clean-up after the fact much easier.

2. Stock up on essentials: Food (include plenty of non-perishable food, too), water, ice, prescriptions and any other needed medical supplies.

Plan on a gallon of water per person or per day. Even in areas that don’t flood, sustained power outages can occur, and people should always be prepared with at least three days’ worth of food and water. Store ice in a cooler in the basement. Get any medical prescriptions filled now.

3. Prepare your “Go-Kit” or “Ready-Bag.”

This bag is ready to go with you if you need to leave, and also helps you if you need to stay put for a few days. It can include items you don’t want to lose, like hard drives and family photographs. The point is to make sure you that if you leave , you don’t have to go back to the house: it may be too risky. Check here for a list of items, including batteries, flashlights, pets: http://focusonfloods.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/family-go-kit-list.pdf.

4. Outside your home: Secure your stuff.

Put away, or secure with bungee cords or chains, any items that could fly away in a storm. In the sort of sustained high-winds associated with hurricanes, that’s just about everything: patio furniture, umbrellas, bicycles, children’s toys, tools, bird feeders, grill covers, etc. Inspect for vulnerable tree branches and remove any loose branches that might fall during the storm. Clean your gutters.

5. Secure your windows.

Those in the areas near where the hurricane is expected to land should be boarding up their windows with plywood or shutters. Areas expected to receive less severe, but nonetheless serious, sustained high winds can focus on vulnerable windows. Caulk up any cracks or leaks to prevent water inside your home. Rain combined with high winds can bring rain into buildings where it has never leaked before.

6. Inside your home: Get ready for flooding.

If you live near the river, move belongings to upper floors; expect water in your basement or first floor, especially if you have been flooded in the past. Prepare to turn off mechanical equipment and utilities if instructed to do so, or have your furnace disconnected if you know you are likely to flood. Test your generator now. Unplug electrical appliances. Don’t touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.

7. Have a Family (And Pet) Plan.

Know the evacuation routes from your property, and which access roads flood. Make sure family know where to meet. Make sure pets have a safe place indoors, and include them when buying food and water. If you need to evacuate, take pets with you, so you don’t have to go back to your property later to get them, when it may be too late. Follow National Weather Service watches and warnings and also river gages at water.weather.gov/ahps.

8. Turn Around, Don’t Drown.

Even 12″ of water can sweep a car away, and heavy trucks aren’t much better. The water can be very deceiving: what appears to be one or two inches of water may be much more. It’s even harder to tell at night. If you see water on the road, turn around.

9. Expect flash flooding.

Those near creeks, like the Bushkill or Monocacy, should expect flash flooding. Small creeks and streams can rise several feet within minutes. Plan to evacuate and plan alternate driving routes.

10. Evacuate when told.

If asked to leave your home or business, follow directions the first time. Don’t put rescue workers in jeopardy by making them come rescue you when waters are high and dangerous. In all your decisions, consider the effect on others, and don’t create unnecessary emergency rescues.

If you found this post helpful, please consider sharing it with your friends. The more people who are prepared, the better. Thank you.

Rachel Hogan Carr is the director of the Nurture Nature Center in Easton, PA, a non-profit organization that has been working for the past several years to help local communities address flood risk.  You can follow them on Facebook or visit www.nurturenaturecenter.org. 

Image from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) website.

By Laini Abraham and Katie Vogel

1. ArtWalk

Saturday, 4 to 8pm, Historic Shopping District, Main St. to Broad St., Bethlehem

What better way is there to spend your late Saturday afternoon than by walking through the beautiful Historic Bethlehem. At ArtWalk, local artists, and musicians will be lining the streets for your entertainment. Don’t forget to take the kids to Kids Corner inside the Main St Commons for some finger painting, coloring contests, sidewalk chalk art, and face painting, too!

2. Easton Restaurant Week Begins

Sunday, Restaurant hours of participating eateries, Easton

This Sunday kicks off Easton’s Restaurant Week. As always, it’s a foodie’s dream when this event rolls around, providing a great opportunity to try the great food the city has to offer. Special courses and prices will be available for this week at various participating restaurants.

3. Streetfluence – Beautification through Street Art

Saturday, 4 to 10pm, NewVox Art Gallery, 425 Wyandotte St., Bethlehem

Streetfluence offers a special treat for all lovers of street art. Come see six of the Valley’s finest artists for a good old fashion block party style opening complete with music, food, and graffiti bombing!

4. Katie’s Pick – National Milk Chocolate Day at the Lehigh Valley Zoo

Saturday, 10am to 4pm, Lehigh Valley Zoo, 5150 Game Preserve Rd., Schnecksville

Saturday just keeps getting better when the Lehigh Valley Zoo celebrates National Milk Chocolate Day. Bring the kids out to meet Twist, Asher’s Chocolate Mascot. Samples from Crystal Spring Farm will also be available to try. Just remember that chocolate makes everything better and samples may go quickly!

5. Stop the Frack Attack Rally

Saturday, 2pm to 5pm, 1st Street, Washington DC

While this may not be a Valley-centered event, the Stop the Frack Attack Rally is important because fracking affects all of us. Fracking is a very real and environmentally dangerous thing. It is up to us to protect it, so we need to make our thoughts known to our leaders. It may be a bit of a trip, but it’s important to let our elected officials know how we feel about this very serious issue.

6. Wine on the Mountain at Penn’s Peak

From Saturday at 12pm to Sunday at 5pm, Penn’s Peak, 325 Maury Rd., Jim Thorpe

The Lehigh Valley is quickly becoming known for its local wines. If you’re looking for a place where you can sample some of the many this area has to offer, then look no further than Wine on the Mountain. This 21 and older event will have many local wineries providing samples to try, as well as local artisans selling their goods. Tickets are $14 in advance, $16 at the door, and include a commemorative tasting glass. Designated driver tickets are also available at the door for $8.

7. Great Music All Weekend at the Levitt Pavilion

From Friday at 7pm to Sunday at 7pm, Levitt Pavilion SteelStacks, 789 East First St., Bethlehem

If you’re feeling the itch to get out and dance or listen to some good music then you just might want to head over the Levitt Pavilion this weekend. This weekend is filled with lots of great music for all ages, and is, in general, a great place to go. It’s also free. Keep an on the schedule for future performances, too, because you never know who just might show up.

8. Live in the Square – Xylophone People

Friday, 7:30pm to 9:30pm, Centre Square, Easton

Usually when we think of the xylophone we end take a trip down memory lane to elementary school when the teacher would get out the multi color percussion instrument. The Xylophone People, however, are anything but elementary. This unique group from Brooklyn will be performing in Easton’s Centre Square this Friday evening and will be bringing with them their one of a kind blend of jazz, roots blues and exotic world percussion. This is not your run of the mill music show and definitely worth seeing.

9. Jessica Echevarria Artist Reception

Friday from 6 to 8:30pm, Blink Optical Boutique, 524 N. 19th St., Allentown

From Blink Optical’s event page: Please join us in welcoming artist Jessica Echevarria and her spectacular art to the walls of Blink Optical Boutique. Open to everyone. Snacks and beverages. Meet Jessica and support local art.

By Laini Abraham and Katie Vogel

1. Blueberry Festival 2012

Saturday and Sunday, 11am to 7pm, Burnside Plantation, 1461 Schoenersville Road, Bethlehem

It’s time for the annual Blueberry Festival at Burnside Plantation this week. Families can come out and enjoy crafts, food, and games. There will also be live music, colonial brewing demonstrations, and of course no blueberry themed festival would be complete without a blueberry pie eating contest! Tickets for the are $8 for adult, $7 for seniors, $4 for children (6-16), and free for those 5 and under.

2. Firebird Theatre: James and the Giant Peach

Friday, 6pm, and Saturday and Sunday, 2pm, St. Luke’s Lutheran Church, 417 N. 7th St., Allentown

A childhood classic comes to life this weekend as Firebird Theater presents James and the Giant Peach! This is the first weekend for the show based off of the book by Roald Dahl, an author known for his unique imagery and vivid imagination. The price of admission is a suggested $10 donation to help fund future Firebird Children’s Theater productions as well as other projects on 7th Street of Allentown.

3. Prickles and Goo

Saturday, 6pm to 10pm, Our Garage Space, 43 North Sitgreaves Street, Easton

Our Garage Space is at it again with another great art show. Saturday marks the opening reception for Prickles and Goo, a collection of work by artists Chaz Hampton, Charles Vail, John Muraco & Tom D’Angelo. There will also be music by Bread and Honey at the show to accompany the art ensemble.

4. Katie’s Pick—Lehigh Valley Sports Fest

Thursday through Sunday, Times vary by event, Cedar Beach Park and other locations, Allentown

You don’t have to be a professional to be an athlete, but at the Lehigh Valley Sports Fest you can show off your skills, or watch others show off theirs. This multi-day event features a huge number of athletic competitions to check out. You may even find the next athletic activity to get you motivated. There will also be a health and fitness expo to promote the benefits of exercise and a healthy lifestyle. Remember you don’t have to be good at an exercise or a sport to be healthy or an athlete, you just have to do it.

5. Easton’s Night of Summer Laughs — Rescheduled due to weather

Friday, 7pm, Riverside Amphitheater, Larry Holmes Dr, Easton

Everybody loves to laugh, and stand-up comics are professional laugh makers. This Friday, Easton’s Riverside Amphitheater will host a trio of some very funny people that will have you rolling on the floor. Easton’s Night of Summer Laughs will be headlined by Pete Dominick, and feature Mark DeMayo, with Easton’s very own and very funny Liz Russo as the evening’s host. This event is free to the public, however some of the comedy material contains adult content and is intended for audiences 18 and over.

6. Earth is Overrated

Saturday, 6pm to 8pm, Allentown Brew Works, 818 West Hamilton St., Allentown

It’s an art show that’s out of this world at the Allentown Brew Works this Saturday. This sci-fi themed art show will feature the works of many talented local artists. There will be light refreshments available as well as $2 draft specials. This is a great show to go check out and have a chance to meet the artists themselves.

7. Zucchini 500

Saturday, 11am, Centre Square, Easton

Indianapolis has the Indy 500. Easton has the Zucchini 500. Put your engineering skills to the test this weekend and carve your own zucchini car to compete in the races. NASCAR official, Peter Brohl will be on hand, waving the checkered flags and judging the competition. There is also a $6 racing fee that includes a zucchini of your choice, wheels, axels, commemorative racing necklace and access to carving tools.

8. Specialized Test the Best Demo Tour

Sunday, 9am to 3pm, Walking Purchase Park, Salisbury

If you’re a cyclist or someone looking to become one, then the Test the Best Demo is the event for you. Sponsored by Cutter’s Bike Shop in Bethlehem, The Specialized Mountain Demo Truck will be coming to Salisbury for the Endurorama event to show off some of their products. This is a great chance to check out some great bikes, ride them around, and ask questions regarding everything you ever wanted to know about bikes.

9. Karel Mikolas: Drawing and Sculpture — Sorry, also canceled.

Saturday, 5pm to 10pm, Amber Connection, 420 Chestnut Street, Emmaus

If there is one thing the Lehigh Valley has a lot of, it’s great artists. This Saturday is yet another opening reception, this time for artist Karel Mikolas. The Amber Connection is thrilled to showcase the works of this unique artist. European- born Karel Mikolas resides in Pennsylvania, works with a variety of sculpting mediums, and has been featured in many exhibits across the country. It is a real treat to have his works displayed here and is a can’t-miss for anyone looking creative inspiration.

By Laini Abraham and Katie Vogel

1. Philadelphia Funk Authority at the Musikfest Café

Saturday, 6:30pm, Musikfest Café, 101 Founders Way, Bethlehem

It’s going to be the hottest dance party in the valley this weekend when the Philadelphia Funk Authority get on stage. They bring their energetic sound to the Musikfest Café for quite the musical treat. Doors open and dinner begins at 6:30 and the show starts at 8. Tickets are available for $10 for Cabaret, SRO, and Balcony seats.

2. Woody Guthrie Folk Festival

Saturday, 2pm to 8pm, Nazareth Boro Park, Nazareth

Summer is the time for festivals and outdoor gatherings and especially for concerts.  This Saturday at Nazareth Boro Park will be the Woody Guthrie Folk Festival. Various vendors will be set up as well as some great musicians performing to celebrate the birthday and music of Woody Guthrie.  This festival is also free, so you will get quite the bargain when you come join in the fun.

3. Compost & iMiJ Shop Joint Opening Celebration & Mercantile’s 4th Anniversary Celebration

Saturday, 4pm to 7pm, 140 Northampton Street and 216 Pine Street, Easton

What’s better than a celebration? How about three celebrations combined into one! That is exactly what’s happening with Compost & iMij Shop’s Opening and Mercantile’s 4th Anniversary. Help break in iMij’s new shop while enjoying unusual plants in their garden and Eliza Jimenez’s couture styling. Over at the Mercantile, you can enjoy champagne, and some delicious cake for their 4th anniversary celebration.

4. Katie’s Pick – ”Artists in the Alley” by Just Around the Corner

Saturday, 10am to 3pm, 5A North Bank St., Easton

Looking to do some shopping but don’t want to wander through a mall? Why not do some outdoor shopping at Artists in the Alley where you can find amazing, hand-crafted, one-of-a-kind items to take home. While you’re there, look out for a possible appearance by Earl the Accordionist, face painting for the kids, and artists actively creating. This event is also dog-friendly so even your favorite canine can join in the fun.

5. Start Making Rent

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

There is something about acoustic music that makes you feel closer to the band. In the cozy setting of Porters’ Pub, that is exactly what you’ll get this Friday with Start Making Rent. Listen to your favorite classic rock with this very talented group in a way you haven’t heard before.

6. Special Berks Gas Truth Meeting at Save Penn’s Woods Exhibit

Friday, 7pm, The Independent Space, 19 E. Main St., Kutztown

There are few things more important than our environment. At the Berks Gas Truth Meeting, you will get a glimpse of exactly what we risk losing if we don’t protect it, and stand against procedures like fracking. There will also be a short film by Josh Fox (and rumor has it Gasland’s now streaming on Netflix!), and a discussion of the Act 13 campaign. Refreshments will also be served, so bring your friends and educate yourself on the impact this will have on the world around us.

7. Indiana Jones & the Temple of . . . We’re Having a Tattoo Themed Art Show!

Friday, 7pm, to 2am, Alternative Gallery, 904 West Hamilton St., Allentown

This tattoo-themed art show will feature work from nearby tattoo artists, as well as work done outside of their shops.  Vendors and apparel companies will also be set up to sell some of their merchandise. A cash bar will be availble with their signature drink, The Alternative, as well as a special post-event gathering next door at Made In Brazil. All are invited.

8. “we” 2012 Opening Gathering

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

When creative minds come together, amazing things can happen. At the “we” 2012 Opening, people will be able to view 120 art panes created by the three artists per each colaborative piece. There will be music by Brian Molnar from 8pm to 10pm. The panes will be available for purchase beginning on July 13 and are expected to be spoken for quickly, so make sure you get in a take a look in case you’d like one to be yours.

9. Puppy Raising 70th Anniversary Celebration

Saturday, 11am to 4pm, Morristown Armory, Morristown

Let’s put it this way: puppies. Yes, this is a celebration of the 70th anniversary of The Seeing Eye — an organization that raises puppies to become seeing-eye dogs. These adorable, furry puppies will one day make life much easier for many visually-impaired people. They make huge impacts in the lives of and are invaluable to their owners. Join them in their celebration with past, present, and future puppy-raisers to show just how amazing they are.

By Laini Abraham and Katie Vogel

1. Easton Heritage Day

Sunday, 12pm to 9:30pm, Centre Square & Riverfront, Easton

Experience a little history this weekend with the annual Easton Heritage Day celebration. Easton was one of the first stops for the reading of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, and it’s an important part of this country’s history that Easton holds near and dear to its heart. Come out and hear a reading of the Declaration at noon, then enjoy food, vendors, music, and attractions through downtown Easton until the fireworks display at 9:30pm.

2. Rooftop Beach Party

Friday, 5:30pm to 8:30pm, North Street parking Garage Roof, Bethlehem

It’s a party that’s way up there in more than one way. Enjoy a warm summer night at the coolest rooftop in Bethlehem. For a $10 ticket you can try foods from local restaurants, one free drink ticket, and $1 off your first drink all while overlooking beautiful downtown. STYLE Magazine will also be there to capture the fun on camera. Better hurry though because only 1500 tickets will sold and they will go quickly!

3. Katie’s Pick - Tropical First Friday

Friday, 6pm to 10pm, Southside Bethlehem

It’s the first Friday of the month and that means it’s also First Friday for Bethlehem. It may be warm out but you won’t even notice in this tropical themed event. Get to southside Bethlehem this Friday evening and the summer air while checking out all the local vendors, stores, and everything else the area has to offer.

4. Easton’s like totally radical 80s Prom

Saturday, 7pm to 10pm, Nurture Nature Center, 518 Northampton St., Easton

The 80’s were an iconic time most notably for its fashion. You know you’d love to break out the neon and taffeta again, though, especially if it’s for a good cause. Help benefit the West Ward of Easton by donning your shoulder pads, big hair and leg warmers for this 80’s themed prom. Rock out to your favorite 70’s and 80’s tunes while checking out items from local artists in a silent auction. Tickets can be purchased pre-event at select stores for $20 and $25 at the Nurture Nature Center door.

5. Briggs Farm Blues Fest 2012

Friday, 10:30am to Sunday, 2pm, Brigg’s Farm, 88 Old Berwick Hwy, Nescopeck

It’s the 15th anniversary of the Brigg’s Farm Blues festival with a great lineup that will keep you dancing the whole weekend. This is the place to be if you enjoy outdoor concerts. Attendees can start camping out at 10:30 on Friday. For those that just wish to attend the concerts, the concert fields open at 2pm on Friday and 12pm on Saturday.

6. Mr. Imagination Memorial Procession of Remembrance

Friday, 7pm, The Banana Factory, 25 W. Third St., Bethlehem

From the event page: Please join us as all disciples, admirers, and friends of the late Mr. Imagination honor his life. There will be brief remarks at stops alongthe walk, and all will have a chance to share memories if they like. Come on out and show your love Mr. Imagination.

7. 260th Birthday of the Easton Farmers’ Market

Saturday, 9am to 1pm, Centre Square, Easton

This Saturday is the 260th Birthday of the Easton Farmer’s Market! Come out and enjoy all the wonderful things the market has to offer plus 260 cakes and cupcakes to celebrate the history the market. Mike McGrath, host of the radio show You Bet your Garden will also be there, offering organic gardening presentations, Q&A sessions and book signings at 10:00 am and 12 Noon. If you haven’t been to the market yet, then this would be the one you have to come to!

8. Hunt for History: Blueberries at Burnside

Saturday, 12pm to 4pm, Burnside Plantation, Bethlehem

There is something about blueberries that are heartwarming and homey. Whether it’s picking them off the bush or baking them in a pie, you can get your blueberry fix at the Burnside Plantation this weekend. Join the Hunt for History Club with your kids this weekend to learn how to create a delicious blueberry dish using open hearth techniques. This will be a berry unique experience for everyone.

9. MISSING

Number nine has gone missing this week! Has anyone seen number 9? If you find it, please post it below. Thank you for your help!

By Heather McAuliffe

Note from Laini: This is the debut post of a new series on LittlePocketGuide.com—a series about and for the furry friends in our lives, and their owners/parents. Thank you to Heather McAuliffe for writing this first article. I know it’s going to help Boomer (and me) a lot over the next few days. For as calm as Boomer is, and as ok he is with pretty much everything, there is one thing that scares him right into the smallest space he can find, and turns him into the kind of dog Heather describes here — fireworks. I wasn’t sure how to help him, so I asked Heather. I think her response is so valuable, it needed to be shared with all of you. Please pass it along to others you think can benefit from it. Have a safe 4th of July!

Boomer likes to hide in small spaces when he hears fireworks. Photo by Laini.

The 5th of July is the most active of all days for local animal control officers and animal shelters. It seems many people don’t realize that the sounds of fireworks not only frighten small children, but they also terrify dogs. Here are some quick tips to help your dogs deal with the sounds and how to keep them safely in your home and not have them end up in a shelter or worse get hurt or hit by a car by bolting in panic.

1. Leave your dog home! Even a dog that is deaf can get frightened by the colors in the sky and even the vibration of the loud BOOMS. No matter what kind of image you have in your head, your dog will NOT enjoy watching the fireworks with the family.

2. Even if it’s nice outside, shut your windows to muffle the sound. Leave on a radio or television and some other type of white noise (a fan, a noise machine, a window unit air conditioner) to help cover some of the sound.

3. If your dog is prone to panic, make sure she is in a secure room where she won’t get hurt. If she is crate trained, use the crate to help keep her safe. Consider covering it with a sheet so that she can curl up in her own little den to feel safe.

4. Take your dog out in the early evening, even at dusk, but before the fireworks start, to let him go potty and get some good exercise. Set an alarm on your phone so you don’t forget. This will help prevent you from having to take him out for a potty break while the fireworks are going on.

5. If you decide to ignore all of this advice and you do take your dog out during fireworks, make sure their collar is tight (about 1-2 fingers should fit between the collar and your dog’s neck) and double check that it is not so loose that the collar can slip up over the dog’s ears. Keep your dog on a leash and keep hold of it tightly. Even the most sedate and/or confident dogs have been known to panic during fireworks and do whatever they can to get away from them and therefore you! This might drive them into traffic or to get lost. You won’t have any hope of keeping up with a panicked dog on the run.

6. If you have people coming over for a picnic, especially those who do not have a dog, or one prone to bolting, help keep your dog safely in the fenced yard or in the house by posting notes at doors and gates to remind people to keep doors closed for the safety of all of your family members!

7. Lastly, if your dog gets lost, contact the police or animal control for your area immediately to file a lost dog report. Consider sources such as Find Toto or Lost My Doggie. These companies offer services to call your neighbors (different prices for different numbers of people called) to notify them that there is a missing dog and who to contact if they see your dog. Hang posters. Lots of them with contact info and a picture of your dog. Do not rely on someone else to post that they have found your dog. If you want to find your missing dog, you need to do the work.

Hopefully, these suggestions will help you and your favorite animals have a safe and happy 4th!

Heather McAuliffe grew up in Easton and is a pet mom and a volunteer for Mid-Atlantic English Springer Spaniel Rescue. She has fostered 200+ dogs. 

By Laini Abraham and Katie Vogel

1. Every Breath III: Hooping for a Cure

Saturday, 12pm to 6pm, Bethlehem Rose Garden, West Union Blvd between 8th and 10th Avenue, Bethlehem

It’s a fundraiser like no other with Hooping for a Cure.  It’s a hooping marathon to raise money for the Cancer Support Community of the Greater Lehigh Valley. There will also be food, music, and vendors for your enjoyment while you’re hooping away. This is a fun day for all and all for a great cause.

2. Fuzion 2012 World Community Event

Saturday, 12pm to 6pm, Allentown Brew Works, 812 West Hamilton Street, Allentown

Sometimes the best way to grow the world around you is to start with your community.  The Fuzion 2012 World Community Event focuses on getting residents and local businesses involved in activities that support the community.  This year the event will feature highlights in art, music, fashion, and organizations from our area.

3. Rain Barrel Workshop at Weyerbacher Brewery

Saturday, 10am to 11am, 11am to 12pm, and 12pm to 1pm, Weyerbacher Brewery, 905-G Line Street, Easton

In the current world, everyone is trying to save money and be earth friendly at the same time. Building your own rain barrel can actually help you with both. Stop in at the Weyerbacher Brewery this Saturday for one their three 1 hour sessions to learn how to make your own rain barrel so the next time it’s raining your drain spout will fill it so you can water your plants later saving money on your water bill and use less water from the hose.  It’s a save-save situation!

4. PRIDE Celebration

Saturday at 8pm, La Pazza Bar, Easton

Check out their Facebook page for all the details.

5. Benefit for a Friend

Saturday, 10pm to 2am, The Funhouse, 5 E 4th Street, Bethlehem

Sometimes we go through tough times in our lives and we might need a little help from friends and neighbors. Heart surgery can be one of these things. This Saturday, The Urban Achievers and Tavern Tan, and Danielle Lubené will be at The Funhouse for fellow musician and musical genius, Billy Melcher, who just underwent this surgery. This is a group of people just trying my their friend’s life as stress-free as possible, so if your looking for a place to go on Saturday night, then head to The Funhouse and “Celebrate The Dude!”

6. Poetry and Music Connection

Friday, 7pm to 10pm, Amber Connection, 420 Chestnut Street, Emmaus

For many, poetry and music is a form of expression, and if you are one of these people, then maybe you should go to the Poetry and Music Connection. With an open-mic night it will certainly be a unique evening for those that attend.  Complimentary snacks and wine will be provided.  All you need to bring is your creativity.

7. Backyards as Science Laboratories: Using Observation, Journals, and Art to Capture things in Nature

8. Secret Art Space Summercraft

Sunday, 12pm to 5pm, Secret Art Space, Bethlehem

Everyone likes unique gifts and items and the Summercraft is a great place to find that stuff. Local artisans and crafters will be selling their materials in this door punk rock flea market craft fair.  Find yourself some cool new jewelry, housewares, clothing, and many other cool new things.  You’ll be supporting the local economy and getting yourself stuff you can’t get anywhere else.

9. Live in the Square: Trouble City All Stars

http://www.eastonmainstreet.org/

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Trouble-City-All-Stars/72952880167?ref=ts

By Laini Abraham

Gardening is fun. Gardening is rewarding. It’s so exciting to get everything planted in the spring, and watch it start to grow. But then, something happens. It gets hot and things need to be watered a LOT. So what do you do? Two words—rain barrel.

I was going to make a very fancy, well-researched, and clever post about this, but then I saw the release that was sent to me from the Saucon Creek Watershed Association. And you know what? It’s all in there. So in the spirit of recycling and not reinventing the wheel, I’m going to just copy that here.

A previous rain barrel workshop. Photo courtesy of the Saucon Creek Watershed Association

Save Water, Drink Beer!

Build Your Own Rain Barrel Workshop

at the Weyerbacher Brewery, 905-G Line Street, Easton, PA

The Saucon Creek Watershed Association is conducting a Rain Barrel Workshop at the Weyerbacher Brewery on Saturday, June 30th. The workshop will guide you through the process of constructing your own barrel.

Rain barrels are great water-saving devices and ideal for gardens. The barrel sits underneath a downspout to collect water from the roof each time it rains. The rain water can then be used to water lawns and garden plants. This helps save groundwater resources and decreases water bills.

After you’ve completed your barrel, feel free to tour the brewery and sample all of the fine beers Weyerbacher has to offer.

Workshops fill up quickly so be sure to register as soon as possible. To register, contact Erin Frederick at efrederick@watershedcoaltionlv.org or 610-965-4397, ext. 137. The cost of a workshop is $35, which includes a plastic 55-gallon drum and all the necessary parts & assistance to build your rain barrel. Choose from three, one-hour session: 10 to 11am, 11 to 12pm, or 12 to 1pm.