I’m a firm believer that the more all-ages art and music venues a community has the better, which is why I’m thrilled that the Vintage Theater in Scranton is having a grand re-opening party this Friday, beginning at 6 p.m. A few months ago, the Vintage closed its location on Penn Avenue, and its fate was uncertain. However, the co-owners, Conor O’Brien and Theresa O’Connor, worked all summer to host fundraisers and an Internet campaign to save the venue. Not only did they raise enough money to re-open, but they exceeded their fundraising goal.

Since closing, the theater has relocated to 326 Spruce Street. The celebration this Friday is free and will include music by several local bands and artwork by my talented girlfriend, Jenna Casaldi, and our friend Heidi. (Some people already saw the art, since it was up during a sneak peek First Friday event a few days ago).

The new Vintage location should be even better than the last one, with plans for a full-scale cafe, used bookstore, art and writing workshops, and plenty of music events.  I’m looking forward to taking part in a reading and Q & A there on Oct. 19 with some other local published writers. More info on that when it’s closer to the date. For now, come to the grand re-opening this Friday if you can.