Who is Contributing to Bethlehem Mini-Judge Candidates

Roy Manwaring is running for re-election to his seat as a Magisterial District Judge in Bethlehem. He's being opposed by Bethlehem Attorney Paul Bender.

According to pre-primary reports filed by both candidates, Bender is outspending Manwaring. Bender has raised $8,525 to Manwaring's $1,858.40. Most of Bender's money comes from his own family, although developer Dennis Benner has kicked in $1,000. He spent $1,600 of his treasure on a bash at the Bayou. Manwaring is totally self-funded. His money has gone to purchase yard signs, pens and fund a mailer.

Easton Lawyer Seeks Mini-Judge Job in Center City Bethlehem

FROM PAUL J BENDER, ESQ. - Local attorney Paul J. Bender announced today that he is running for Magisterial District Judge in Center City Bethlehem (District 03-2-01). Bender, a Democrat, plans to cross-file on both the Democratic and Republican primary ballots, as is typically done in these non-partisan races.

Bender grew up in Bethlehem under the guidance of a single mother, attended Bethlehem Catholic High School and La Salle University, and then continued his education at Western Michigan University Cooley Law School in Lansing.

Paul Bender has practiced law in Pennsylvania and New Jersey with local firm Pfeiffer, Bruno, Minotti and DeEsch since 2007. 

Bender's family owned and operated a fruit and produce company – Trimble Bros. – on the South Side of Bethlehem.

“As a resident of downtown Bethlehem, and having grown up here,” Bender continued, “I have a great appreciation and respect for the rich history and traditions of our city. I want to see the City of Bethlehem and all that it has to offer continue to be enjoyed by residents and visitors alike for generations to come.”

Magisterial District 03-2-01 covers the 6th, 7th, 8th, and 9th Wards of the City of Bethlehem, generally encompassing the Center City area and historic district from the north bank of the Lehigh River to Elizabeth Avenue.