It started out as a creative writing group. A group of five Easton women met monthly – writing, reading and critiquing each other’s work. They had a notion to start a literary magazine. But what emerged from that group ended up being something else altogether – a beautifully designed online newspaper.
Called Easton Savvy, this newspaper hit the ground running on 11-11-11, with terrific writing, photography, and event listings. It’s intended to offer user-friendly, real time information about events and activities in Easton, and showcase Easton area writers, artists and poets.
Editor in Chief Amanda Priestley said that the name Easton Savvy came about organically, as the group brainstormed and tossed around hundreds of ideas. Comfortable with traditional writing, yet embracing modern technologies, “Savvy” seems to fit this group well. Several of the writers are stay-at-home moms, and the newspaper affords them a chance to practice their craft, yet it’s flexible enough to allow them to be the mothers they intend to be.
A section called “Hot Seat” profiles local people and places. Another section, “Downtown,” highlights events, the social scene, and restaurant reviews. The “Playground” section offers a thoughtful look at issues and personal commentary related to parenting. And “Senior Center” is a fresh look at how people are re-defining their retirement. Priestley finds parallels between recently-retired seniors and stay-at-home moms – how do people use their time? Can their stories be inspiring to others? Easton Savvy thinks so.
After Priestley’s daughter was born six months ago, she found herself looking for a central location online to find out what was going on around town – with a baby, sometimes she’d have a short, two-hour window to get out and about. Finding nothing like she was looking for, it made sense to create one. Easton Savvy’s event page offers up to the minute details on local events. And when the event is over – it’s wiped from the screen, updated in real time. You won’t have to scroll through dates and events past to find something to do today.
Priestley’s vision is that Easton Savvy is where locals will go in the morning over their first cup of coffee, check the events calendar, and read new stories about all of the fascinating people who call this region their home.
Expect to see a flash fiction contest early in 2012, and a lot of fresh content over next few months. Easton Savvy expects to attract people who want local information, highlight small town interconnectedness, and help usher in a new way of telling the compelling stories of the people and places around Easton.
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