“Food Truck Friday” Gives Back to Salvation Army

by Jonathan Weaver

July 29th might not have been the first Friday of the month, but the mass of food trucks for an outdoor event in Kittanning was still appreciated by all.

Dubbed “Food Truck Friday,” eight regional food trucks merged at the corner of Market Street and South Grant Avenue on the Rosebud Mining lot for a community social event.

Due to the Fort Armstrong Folk Festival this Friday in Kittanning, food trucks will not organize in Ford City as they did in May and June.

Sara Lechman has had her “Miss Meatball” food truck for four years, but it is her first appearance in an Armstrong County ‘First Friday.’

“I had a recipe, and when I was coming up with ideas, one of my favorite recipes was the chicken meatball so I just decided to do all meatballs,” Lechman said.

Based out of Hempfield Township (Westmoreland County), Lechman, 30, has worked with L.A. Taco Owner Walter Aguirre at other events in the past. She frequents Allegheny County roadways.

Lechman and Aguirre were glad to see families and couples take advantage of the pleasant summer evening.

“I think (First Friday’s) are great for the community - it gets everyone to come out, enjoy food and hang out,” Lechman said. “I like them - they’re great.”

Friday’s event even collected can goods to donate to the Kittanning Salvation Army emergency food pantry.

Salvation Army Lieutenant Amber Imhoff said she appreciates the community’s ongoing support for those families that need emergency assistance throughout the year.

“The dedication that the owners of L.A. Taco and the other food trucks have to help support our community through these events shows the kind of love you find in family-owned businesses and small town life, to take care of and support our neighbors through the good and the hard times of life,” Lieutenant Amber said.

Music during the event was also provided by Brian Shaffer and David Hipchin.

Shaffer, a vocalist for Kittanning’s “Free Peanuts” and part of another local band “The Travelers,” has lived in Kittanning Borough about 10 years and sung well-before he graduated from Kittanning Senior High in 1993.

Hipchin is known for being a songwriter, vocalist and guitarist for the band, “Tilted Shadows.” He also performed for an event two years ago.

Friday events are also projected for September and October.

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