A New Era

Seeing (on tv) close to two million people gathered at the mall in Washington DC was moving. It must have been really exciting to be there. What stood out to me in Obama's Inaugural Address was the message that we are all equal, and that in these tough times he is summoning all Americans to work together in a "new era of responsibility." In his speech, which was informed by history but made his own, he asked us to return to the values of hard work, family, and community that America once stood for. He is confident that tough challenges will be met and America is ready to lead once more. The speech was somewhat somber, but still very powerful. He stressed the importance of extending a hand to the world, especially the Islamic world. The Bush era is over, and so is the Reagan era when less government was the mantra. Now we need "more effective" govt. He mentioned the importance of science, and stopping global warming. It feels like we are coming out of the Dark Ages! Finally!

With Obama's approval rating at 83%, and that was before the inauguration, I certainly hope that Republicans will not put partisanship before principle. Even though Obama has said he will be focusing on moving forward, I would like to see an investigation and trial regarding war crimes committed by the Bush administration. I think it's important to cleanse the country of the bad things done by the prior administration if we are going to be respected again around the world. And what about the scary possibility of future administrations repeating what Bush did (ie torture), because he got away with it?

I am hopeful. Even though there are so many businesses closing due to the recession, record home foreclosures, a health care crisis, and we may even be in for a depression, I have confidence in Obama's leadership, and in the American people to rise to the challenge. So, let's get to work, together.

(Morning Call Forum post coming soon)

A New Era

Seeing (on tv) close to two million people gathered at the mall in Washington DC was moving. It must have been really exciting to be there. What stood out to me in Obama's Inaugural Address was the message that we are all equal, and that in these tough times he is summoning all Americans to work together in a "new era of responsibility." In his speech, which was informed by history but made his own, he asked us to return to the values of hard work, family, and community that America once stood for. He is confident that tough challenges will be met and America is ready to lead once more. The speech was somewhat somber, but still very powerful. He stressed the importance of extending a hand to the world, especially the Islamic world. The Bush era is over, and so is the Reagan era when less government was the mantra. Now we need "more effective" govt. He mentioned the importance of science, and stopping global warming. It feels like we are coming out of the Dark Ages! Finally!

With Obama's approval rating at 83%, and that was before the inauguration, I certainly hope that Republicans will not put partisanship before principle. Even though Obama has said he will be focusing on moving forward, I would like to see an investigation and trial regarding war crimes committed by the Bush administration. I think it's important to cleanse the country of the bad things done by the prior administration if we are going to be respected again around the world. And what about the scary possibility of future administrations repeating what Bush did (ie torture), because he got away with it?

I am hopeful. Even though there are so many businesses closing due to the recession, record home foreclosures, a health care crisis, and we may even be in for a depression, I have confidence in Obama's leadership, and in the American people to rise to the challenge. So, let's get to work, together.

(Morning Call Forum post coming soon)

Mayor Pawlowski Books Interview with LV Somebody

Readers, our promised post on The Morning Call Forum is coming soon ... but we interrupt this program to announce that Allentown Mayor Ed Pawlowski (the recipient of a whopping 59% popular vote mandate in the 2005 election) has agreed to a Q&A interview with Lehigh Valley Somebody, one of the Top 20 Most Influential Political Blogs in Pennsylvania, to help kick-off his re-election campaign.

Per our gracious and popular (59%!) Mayor, you are cordially invited to SUBMIT QUESTIONS for his Q&A interview which we will relay to the Mayor.

Feel free to ask Mayor Pawlowski anything you like, in a comment here.

LV Somebody will compile your questions (and we'll have some too) and present them to Mayor Pawlowski for his consideration ASAP.

*** UPDATE, JANUARY 31: Popular (59% Mandate!) Allentown Mayor Pawlowski's people just contacted our people (jealous?) Mayor Pawlowski's answers to Lehigh Valley Somebody's Reader Questions will be here "within 2-3 days," and we'll have 'em posted in a new post ASAP after we get 'em!  

Mayor Pawlowski Books Interview with LV Somebody

Readers, our promised post on The Morning Call Forum is coming soon ... but we interrupt this program to announce that Allentown Mayor Ed Pawlowski (the recipient of a whopping 59% popular vote mandate in the 2005 election) has agreed to a Q&A interview with Lehigh Valley Somebody, one of the Top 20 Most Influential Political Blogs in Pennsylvania, to help kick-off his re-election campaign.

Per our gracious and popular (59%!) Mayor, you are cordially invited to SUBMIT QUESTIONS for his Q&A interview which we will relay to the Mayor.

Feel free to ask Mayor Pawlowski anything you like, in a comment here.

LV Somebody will compile your questions (and we'll have some too) and present them to Mayor Pawlowski for his consideration ASAP.

*** UPDATE, JANUARY 31: Popular (59% Mandate!) Allentown Mayor Pawlowski's people just contacted our people (jealous?) Mayor Pawlowski's answers to Lehigh Valley Somebody's Reader Questions will be here "within 2-3 days," and we'll have 'em posted in a new post ASAP after we get 'em!  

We Like Downtown Allentown

Bill and I like to visit downtown Allentown, especially Hamilton St. and 7th St. We live in N. Allentown not too far from the downtown. Recently I spent some time at 9th and Hamilton during the Chen Arts Show at the Butz Corporate Center. It's a beautiful modern building with a great view of the street. Over 200 people visited the art show during the week it was open. It was an exciting event! There's a cool video at http://www.chenarts.blogspot.com/

Here are some of the outstanding downtown places we have visited recently: We like The Brew Works for dinner, House of Chen, The Bay Leaf , and the fab Deli Plaza for lunch and back for dinner sometimes! We have visited the Farr Lofts and they are really cool. We have been to Yodi's art studio on Hamilton. We have been to The Caring Place. Bill's sister owns a store on Hamilton Street. And our wonderful eye doctor Nancy Perez is on Hamilton. We recently sat in the balcony of Symphony Hall for the Lehigh Valley Christmas Show(I know that's off of Hamilton), and we go to the Liberty Bell Museum every year to see "Pip the Mouse." We visited Art and Soul Tattoo Parlor and Gallery, where we ran into Patrick Villa who was attending a skateboarding event. (See photo of me and a sweaty Patrick at the sidebar) The Villas have performed at Croc Rock and the Sterling Hotel. We have visited the Musselman Ctr. for the Arts (Antonio Salemme Foundation gallery), and toured 808 Hamilton, which, hopefully, could turn out to be Allentown's new "Open Space Gallery," which was once housed at 808, wouldn't that be deja vu cool!

Hamilton St. is kinda quiet on weekends and evenings, but 7th St. is really hopping. There seems to be a lot of new small businesses opening on 7th. Gianni had his hair cut at one of the hip barber shops on a Sunday afternoon and boy were those barbers busy! Pete Lewnes's house on 7th is really cool, and his renovations are spectacular. The first Chen Arts Show was held at his house during The Old Allentown House Tour. Mayor Pawlowski spoke at the press conference, and I got to pose for a picture with the mayor! 7th St is very ethnic and vibrant. It's a bit grittier than Hamilton but we love the humanity.

Mohamed at Deli Plaza on Hamilton (a Chen artist), is so friendly and accomodating. And he makes the best soup I have ever tasted. Everything is always fresh and made to order. Jenny and the House of Chen crew are tops, the food is great and their prices are very reasonable. We always enjoy seeing Mike Fegley (Mike used to be our neighbor) at the fab Brew Works. Sure beats the "faux downtowns" at the Promenade or the LV Mall where some people are mad to see ya and have that "get outta the way of my weekend" attitude.

I know that we can't just ignore Allentown's problems: the crime, the gangs, the poverty, and the homelessness. I taught in the ASD so I have seen children growing up in poverty. But I think if people from suburbia and the west end would visit downtown regularly, get to know some of the business owners, and the people who now live there, then their perception of downtown Allentown would change. I am hopeful that our downtown will continue to improve. I hope more events, like The Chen Arts Group Show "Momentum" can be held there. I was disappointed in the lights on the Christmas tree at PPL Plaza. I think they could have been much more spectacular. So let's light up the downtown with people!

We Like Downtown Allentown

Bill and I like to visit downtown Allentown, especially Hamilton St. and 7th St. We live in N. Allentown not too far from the downtown. Recently I spent some time at 9th and Hamilton during the Chen Arts Show at the Butz Corporate Center. It's a beautiful modern building with a great view of the street. Over 200 people visited the art show during the week it was open. It was an exciting event! There's a cool video at http://www.chenarts.blogspot.com/

Here are some of the outstanding downtown places we have visited recently: We like The Brew Works for dinner, House of Chen, The Bay Leaf , and the fab Deli Plaza for lunch and back for dinner sometimes! We have visited the Farr Lofts and they are really cool. We have been to Yodi's art studio on Hamilton. We have been to The Caring Place. Bill's sister owns a store on Hamilton Street. And our wonderful eye doctor Nancy Perez is on Hamilton. We recently sat in the balcony of Symphony Hall for the Lehigh Valley Christmas Show(I know that's off of Hamilton), and we go to the Liberty Bell Museum every year to see "Pip the Mouse." We visited Art and Soul Tattoo Parlor and Gallery, where we ran into Patrick Villa who was attending a skateboarding event. (See photo of me and a sweaty Patrick at the sidebar) The Villas have performed at Croc Rock and the Sterling Hotel. We have visited the Musselman Ctr. for the Arts (Antonio Salemme Foundation gallery), and toured 808 Hamilton, which, hopefully, could turn out to be Allentown's new "Open Space Gallery," which was once housed at 808, wouldn't that be deja vu cool!

Hamilton St. is kinda quiet on weekends and evenings, but 7th St. is really hopping. There seems to be a lot of new small businesses opening on 7th. Gianni had his hair cut at one of the hip barber shops on a Sunday afternoon and boy were those barbers busy! Pete Lewnes's house on 7th is really cool, and his renovations are spectacular. The first Chen Arts Show was held at his house during The Old Allentown House Tour. Mayor Pawlowski spoke at the press conference, and I got to pose for a picture with the mayor! 7th St is very ethnic and vibrant. It's a bit grittier than Hamilton but we love the humanity.

Mohamed at Deli Plaza on Hamilton (a Chen artist), is so friendly and accomodating. And he makes the best soup I have ever tasted. Everything is always fresh and made to order. Jenny and the House of Chen crew are tops, the food is great and their prices are very reasonable. We always enjoy seeing Mike Fegley (Mike used to be our neighbor) at the fab Brew Works. Sure beats the "faux downtowns" at the Promenade or the LV Mall where some people are mad to see ya and have that "get outta the way of my weekend" attitude.

I know that we can't just ignore Allentown's problems: the crime, the gangs, the poverty, and the homelessness. I taught in the ASD so I have seen children growing up in poverty. But I think if people from suburbia and the west end would visit downtown regularly, get to know some of the business owners, and the people who now live there, then their perception of downtown Allentown would change. I am hopeful that our downtown will continue to improve. I hope more events, like The Chen Arts Group Show "Momentum" can be held there. I was disappointed in the lights on the Christmas tree at PPL Plaza. I think they could have been much more spectacular. So let's light up the downtown with people!

Gotta See Milk!

Bravo to the 19th St. Theatre in Allentown for showing the movie "Milk." I have not seen it yet, but plan on seeing it as soon as we can get a babysitter! Sean Penn plays Harvey Milk, who in 1977 became the first openly gay elected official from California. I have read that the movie is more about a movement than a candidate and that Milk fought not just for gay rights but for human rights. He was an outspoken man who had a great love for the city of San Francisco, he had faith in people, he defended gay school teachers, was a community organizer, and an activist. I think this film is important because it deals with the details of politics at a local level, something we don't usually see in a major motion picture.

It is sad that in 2009, 30 years after Milk, we are still dealing with the same issues, and gay rights is still a matter of debate (Proposition 8). But Milk was an agent for change and for hope and I think the fact that this movie is coming out now is very significant. And because of Harvey Milk and how he has inspired others, we are getting a little closer to his vision of equality.

Gotta See Milk!

Bravo to the 19th St. Theatre in Allentown for showing the movie "Milk." I have not seen it yet, but plan on seeing it as soon as we can get a babysitter! Sean Penn plays Harvey Milk, who in 1977 became the first openly gay elected official from California. I have read that the movie is more about a movement than a candidate and that Milk fought not just for gay rights but for human rights. He was an outspoken man who had a great love for the city of San Francisco, he had faith in people, he defended gay school teachers, was a community organizer, and an activist. I think this film is important because it deals with the details of politics at a local level, something we don't usually see in a major motion picture.

It is sad that in 2009, 30 years after Milk, we are still dealing with the same issues, and gay rights is still a matter of debate (Proposition 8). But Milk was an agent for change and for hope and I think the fact that this movie is coming out now is very significant. And because of Harvey Milk and how he has inspired others, we are getting a little closer to his vision of equality.

It's Somebody's 1st Anniversary!

Wow, it's been one year already since our inaugural post on January 1, 2008! Here is the picture I tried to install back then but couldn't figure out how to do it. Okay, so we're not gonna waste time with any "Best Of" or "Worst Of" The Year lists. We just wanted to say thanks for reading and commenting at our blog. It's been fun communicating with you, and in 2008 this blog greatly facilitated me in reaching out to other artists and getting The Allentown Chen Arts Group (CHARGE) rolling forward. It all started with a conversation between "Lehigh Valley Lexicon" Sarina and me in our local blogosphere. That was the spark that ignited a successful independent arts movement in Allentown that now has some serious momentum-in-progress. It's rewarding being part of two blogs, this one, and the new Allentown Chen Arts Group (CHARGE) blog, that actually achieve positive, quality of life progress for our community-- instead of whining about all that's "wrong" with Allentown politically, as so many of our local blogs do daily (yawn).

2008 also saw the return of The Villas, our power pop band, to the recording studio. On September 17th (see our post, Sound Matters), more than half a hundred of you welcomed us back and nearly 700 people downloaded two new Villas songs (for FREE!) that were made available here (and only here) at the "Lehigh Valley Somebody" blog. All that comment and download love was definitely a highlight of 2008 for us Villas ... so thanks.

In 2008, this proud minority local "lefty" blog also gave my bandmate/husband Bill Villa (Mr. Dottie) and me the opportunity to set the record straight on a few things; to defend ourselves against calculated lies, cruel taunts, and criminal harassment; to express our liberal political views; and to call attention to issues we believe are important-- such as how shabbily grieving families are treated by Lehigh County District Attorney Jim Martin and The Morning Call "newspaper." It's our blog and we'll continue to write about whatever we want, however we want-- while thumbing our noses at--and litigating against--all self-annointed Blog Nazi Enforcers stupid enough to take us on.

Over this past year, Bill and I have been disappointed to learn that seemingly thoughtful human beings can be incredibly gullible, pliable, and cold-hearted. But we've also learned that good people can come together to accomplish great things in a spirit of community and volunteerism. So it balanced out.

Go Obama! Go Liberals! Go Allentown! Go CHARGE! Go Disciplinary Board of the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania!

Here's to another great year of opinionated Somebodies who aren't afraid to be outspoken in Allentown.

It's Somebody's 1st Anniversary!

Wow, it's been one year already since our inaugural post on January 1, 2008! Here is the picture I tried to install back then but couldn't figure out how to do it. Okay, so we're not gonna waste time with any "Best Of" or "Worst Of" The Year lists. We just wanted to say thanks for reading and commenting at our blog. It's been fun communicating with you, and in 2008 this blog greatly facilitated me in reaching out to other artists and getting The Allentown Chen Arts Group (CHARGE) rolling forward. It all started with a conversation between "Lehigh Valley Lexicon" Sarina and me in our local blogosphere. That was the spark that ignited a successful independent arts movement in Allentown that now has some serious momentum-in-progress. It's rewarding being part of two blogs, this one, and the new Allentown Chen Arts Group (CHARGE) blog, that actually achieve positive, quality of life progress for our community-- instead of whining about all that's "wrong" with Allentown politically, as so many of our local blogs do daily (yawn).

2008 also saw the return of The Villas, our power pop band, to the recording studio. On September 17th (see our post, Sound Matters), more than half a hundred of you welcomed us back and nearly 700 people downloaded two new Villas songs (for FREE!) that were made available here (and only here) at the "Lehigh Valley Somebody" blog. All that comment and download love was definitely a highlight of 2008 for us Villas ... so thanks.

In 2008, this proud minority local "lefty" blog also gave my bandmate/husband Bill Villa (Mr. Dottie) and me the opportunity to set the record straight on a few things; to defend ourselves against calculated lies, cruel taunts, and criminal harassment; to express our liberal political views; and to call attention to issues we believe are important-- such as how shabbily grieving families are treated by Lehigh County District Attorney Jim Martin and The Morning Call "newspaper." It's our blog and we'll continue to write about whatever we want, however we want-- while thumbing our noses at--and litigating against--all self-annointed Blog Nazi Enforcers stupid enough to take us on.

Over this past year, Bill and I have been disappointed to learn that seemingly thoughtful human beings can be incredibly gullible, pliable, and cold-hearted. But we've also learned that good people can come together to accomplish great things in a spirit of community and volunteerism. So it balanced out.

Go Obama! Go Liberals! Go Allentown! Go CHARGE! Go Disciplinary Board of the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania!

Here's to another great year of opinionated Somebodies who aren't afraid to be outspoken in Allentown.

Let's Stop Bernie O'Hare

Master Of Deceit & MisDirection that Bernie O'Hare is ...

and because we deftly exposed some VERY clumsy legal jeopardy missteps O'Hare has made recently, namely:

* O'Hare published a threat to sabotage Sheena's civil litigation that implicates attorney (for now) Dave "The Gremlin" Najarian

* O'Hare published a threat about our home address that inadvertently (oopsie) revealed he may be stalking and staking out our residence ...

today B. O'Hare, um, shifts gears, and um, changes course, and MISDIRECTS YOUR ATTENTION away from Bill Villa and onto a NEW VICTIM AT THE TROLL PARADE BLOG.

This is part legal maneuver too.

See this way, O'Hare can tell the judge he wasn't 2709 A 3 criminally harassing "troll" Bill Villa ... exclusively.

No, Your Honor.

He was only doing his self-appointed job of policing our local blogosphere and punishing and harassing ALL bloggers whose content he does not approve of.

And I'm sure the judge will be fine with this ... eh?

ATTENTION LOCAL BLOGOSPHERE:

Now that "The Authority" Bernie O'Hare has selected a 2nd victim for his Troll Parade Blog (and who knows, O'Hare's 3rd victim may be YOU) ...

is anyone feeling even maybe, oh, I dunno, say even a little twinge of concern, and Civic Duty, regarding stopping this asshole O'Hare?

Pop me an e-mail if you'd like to JOIN ME IN STOPPING BERNIE O'HARE.

alacarbv@aol.com

This post was composed by Mr. Dottie, Bill Villa.

Let's Stop Bernie O'Hare

Master Of Deceit & MisDirection that Bernie O'Hare is ...

and because we deftly exposed some VERY clumsy legal jeopardy missteps O'Hare has made recently, namely:

* O'Hare published a threat to sabotage Sheena's civil litigation that implicates attorney (for now) Dave "The Gremlin" Najarian

* O'Hare published a threat about our home address that inadvertently (oopsie) revealed he may be stalking and staking out our residence ...

today B. O'Hare, um, shifts gears, and um, changes course, and MISDIRECTS YOUR ATTENTION away from Bill Villa and onto a NEW VICTIM AT THE TROLL PARADE BLOG.

This is part legal maneuver too.

See this way, O'Hare can tell the judge he wasn't 2709 A 3 criminally harassing "troll" Bill Villa ... exclusively.

No, Your Honor.

He was only doing his self-appointed job of policing our local blogosphere and punishing and harassing ALL bloggers whose content he does not approve of.

And I'm sure the judge will be fine with this ... eh?

ATTENTION LOCAL BLOGOSPHERE:

Now that "The Authority" Bernie O'Hare has selected a 2nd victim for his Troll Parade Blog (and who knows, O'Hare's 3rd victim may be YOU) ...

is anyone feeling even maybe, oh, I dunno, say even a little twinge of concern, and Civic Duty, regarding stopping this asshole O'Hare?

Pop me an e-mail if you'd like to JOIN ME IN STOPPING BERNIE O'HARE.

alacarbv@aol.com

This post was composed by Mr. Dottie, Bill Villa.

I'm Making My Gifts

This Friday afternoon I am co-chairing Craft Day at my son's school. This Friday is also the opening of the MOMENTUM Chen Arts show downtown, so I have been kinda busy. Craft Day is a fun after school event where kids get to make some winter crafts to give as gifts. This year I have decided to use recycled materials and found objects to make more creative and meaningful crafts. And I wanted to lower the ticket price considering how many families are struggling right now. I have been spending hours upon hours cutting apart cardboard boxes to make picture frames. We are going to glue mini pine cones on the frames. They are very cute. And working on this project got me thinking that well, maybe I should just make most of my X-mas gifts this year.

I really have a hard time buying gifts for wealthy relatives. It just doesn't seem right. I don't think that family members who are in a much higher income bracket than we are should expect fancy gifts from us. Plus, so many birthdays fall in December. So, it's the thought that counts, and I am going to make some thoughtful handmade trinkets this year. Now, the hard part is finding the time to do it!

I'm Making My Gifts

This Friday afternoon I am co-chairing Craft Day at my son's school. This Friday is also the opening of the MOMENTUM Chen Arts show downtown, so I have been kinda busy. Craft Day is a fun after school event where kids get to make some winter crafts to give as gifts. This year I have decided to use recycled materials and found objects to make more creative and meaningful crafts. And I wanted to lower the ticket price considering how many families are struggling right now. I have been spending hours upon hours cutting apart cardboard boxes to make picture frames. We are going to glue mini pine cones on the frames. They are very cute. And working on this project got me thinking that well, maybe I should just make most of my X-mas gifts this year.

I really have a hard time buying gifts for wealthy relatives. It just doesn't seem right. I don't think that family members who are in a much higher income bracket than we are should expect fancy gifts from us. Plus, so many birthdays fall in December. So, it's the thought that counts, and I am going to make some thoughtful handmade trinkets this year. Now, the hard part is finding the time to do it!

Lame Duck Dubya Craps on Women

Women should be aware of the "Right of Conscience Rule" that lame duck George Bush is pushing through before he flies the coop. This new rule could undermine a woman's ability to access reproductive health care. The rule says that doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and other healthcare workers can refuse to participate in any procedure they find morally objectionable, or against their religious beliefs. The broad language of the rule goes beyond just abortion to include sperm donations, artificial insemination, and contraception.

For example, a pharmacist can reject a rape victim's prescription for emergency contraception. A woman with a life threatening condition can be refused an early abortion. This rule allows pharmacists to refuse birth control to Medicaid recipients, so lower income women will be hit the hardest.

Shouldn't a patient's health care rights come before the religious beliefs of the health care providers?

Reproductive health care is a human right.

Isn't the Bush admin. just politicizing women's health in order to "set Obama up" for confrontation with the religious right? Obama has stated that he understands there is a "moral dimension to abortion" but he has also promised to protect the rights of women who seek abortion.

I can respect a health care worker's "right of conscience" but it is wrong to put ideology or politics before women's health.

Hey, I don't see any religious or political leaders speaking out to restrict Viagra use for unmarried men.

Quack, Quack.

Lame Duck Dubya Craps on Women

Women should be aware of the "Right of Conscience Rule" that lame duck George Bush is pushing through before he flies the coop. This new rule could undermine a woman's ability to access reproductive health care. The rule says that doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and other healthcare workers can refuse to participate in any procedure they find morally objectionable, or against their religious beliefs. The broad language of the rule goes beyond just abortion to include sperm donations, artificial insemination, and contraception.

For example, a pharmacist can reject a rape victim's prescription for emergency contraception. A woman with a life threatening condition can be refused an early abortion. This rule allows pharmacists to refuse birth control to Medicaid recipients, so lower income women will be hit the hardest.

Shouldn't a patient's health care rights come before the religious beliefs of the health care providers?

Reproductive health care is a human right.

Isn't the Bush admin. just politicizing women's health in order to "set Obama up" for confrontation with the religious right? Obama has stated that he understands there is a "moral dimension to abortion" but he has also promised to protect the rights of women who seek abortion.

I can respect a health care worker's "right of conscience" but it is wrong to put ideology or politics before women's health.

Hey, I don't see any religious or political leaders speaking out to restrict Viagra use for unmarried men.

Quack, Quack.

Greg Weaver in "Momentum"

I am proud to report (i.e., "leak") that the art work of the late and great Greg Weaver will be on display at the Allentown Chen Arts Group upcoming show, "Momentum." Greg started a hipster art scene in Allentown in the 1970's and was/is an inspiration to many artists, musicians, and writers. I spoke with his widow Fran recently for almost an hour and she is very excited about Greg's work being included in this show.

Greg Weaver said: "I see my painting as urban American folk art; that is an art that comes from responding to the tensions of national urbanization."

"I need the contradictions and paradoxes of modern American culture."

Speaking of cool contradictions, visualize Greg's "large black cow" and "large chicken" juxtaposed against the ultra-modern and mostly glass Butz Corporate Center. Wow. Just seeing Greg's work being unfurled during the set-up in the Butz building gave me a huge thrill.

Don't miss "Momentum," featuring the work of over 30 local artists converging on Hamilton Street in Allentown.

MOMENTUM- Expanding the Dialog of Contemporary Art in Allentown

Butz Corporate Center, 840 Hamilton St.

Opening Friday Dec 12th 5-9pm

Open Sat Dec 13th 12-5pm

Open daily Dec 15th-19th 11-2pm

Closing festivities Sat Dec 20th 5-9pm

Greg Weaver in "Momentum"

I am proud to report (i.e., "leak") that the art work of the late and great Greg Weaver will be on display at the Allentown Chen Arts Group upcoming show, "Momentum." Greg started a hipster art scene in Allentown in the 1970's and was/is an inspiration to many artists, musicians, and writers. I spoke with his widow Fran recently for almost an hour and she is very excited about Greg's work being included in this show.

Greg Weaver said: "I see my painting as urban American folk art; that is an art that comes from responding to the tensions of national urbanization."

"I need the contradictions and paradoxes of modern American culture."

Speaking of cool contradictions, visualize Greg's "large black cow" and "large chicken" juxtaposed against the ultra-modern and mostly glass Butz Corporate Center. Wow. Just seeing Greg's work being unfurled during the set-up in the Butz building gave me a huge thrill.

Don't miss "Momentum," featuring the work of over 30 local artists converging on Hamilton Street in Allentown.

MOMENTUM- Expanding the Dialog of Contemporary Art in Allentown

Butz Corporate Center, 840 Hamilton St.

Opening Friday Dec 12th 5-9pm

Open Sat Dec 13th 12-5pm

Open daily Dec 15th-19th 11-2pm

Closing festivities Sat Dec 20th 5-9pm

Food Stamp Usage Up

Here's something to think about, after the Thanksgiving festivities. The other night Rachel Maddow on MSNBC (I LOVE her show) said that 1 in 10 Americans use food stamps. I had no idea. There is new government data on hunger in the USA. According to this new data, 11.9 million Americans went hungry last year, including 700,000 children. This is up 50% since the year before. (source: The Washington Post, Nov. 26th)

"We soon will have the most food stamps recipients in the history of our country," said Jim Weill, president of the Food Research and Action Center, a D.C.-based anti-hunger policy organization. "If the economic forecasts come true, we're likely to see the most hunger that we've seen since the 1981 recession and maybe since the 1960s, when these programs were established."

Food stamp usage is a good barometer of economic conditions. An increase in food stamps is fueled by rising unemployment and rising food prices.

Food stamps aren't welfare. The program helps lower income people buy nutritious food. Many working people use food stamps to help make ends meet. Obama intends to make this issue a priority next year and increase food stamp benefits as part of the economic stimulus plan.

The food stamp program is now called The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

Here is more info: FNS Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

Food Stamp Usage Up

Here's something to think about, after the Thanksgiving festivities. The other night Rachel Maddow on MSNBC (I LOVE her show) said that 1 in 10 Americans use food stamps. I had no idea. There is new government data on hunger in the USA. According to this new data, 11.9 million Americans went hungry last year, including 700,000 children. This is up 50% since the year before. (source: The Washington Post, Nov. 26th)

"We soon will have the most food stamps recipients in the history of our country," said Jim Weill, president of the Food Research and Action Center, a D.C.-based anti-hunger policy organization. "If the economic forecasts come true, we're likely to see the most hunger that we've seen since the 1981 recession and maybe since the 1960s, when these programs were established."

Food stamp usage is a good barometer of economic conditions. An increase in food stamps is fueled by rising unemployment and rising food prices.

Food stamps aren't welfare. The program helps lower income people buy nutritious food. Many working people use food stamps to help make ends meet. Obama intends to make this issue a priority next year and increase food stamp benefits as part of the economic stimulus plan.

The food stamp program is now called The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

Here is more info: FNS Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

In Memory of Mike

Today we found out that our friend Mike Smitreski passed away. We will miss you, Mike.

Here's a link to Mike's band "The Steeds," a fab garage band. http://www.myspace.com/thesteeds

Photo credit-David Keller

In Memory of Mike

Today we found out that our friend Mike Smitreski passed away. We will miss you, Mike.

Here's a link to Mike's band "The Steeds," a fab garage band. http://www.myspace.com/thesteeds

Photo credit-David Keller

Giving Thanks

Here is a list of some things I am thankful for (there are many others):

1. First and foremost, my family.

2. Friends

3. My faith

4. My surgeons

5. My dad's surgeon

6. Nurses

7. My teachers

8. Emergency response people

9. Fire and police officers

10. Democracy/USA/Freedom

11. Volunteers

12. Veterans

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

Giving Thanks

Here is a list of some things I am thankful for (there are many others):

1. First and foremost, my family.

2. Friends

3. My faith

4. My surgeons

5. My dad's surgeon

6. Nurses

7. My teachers

8. Emergency response people

9. Fire and police officers

10. Democracy/USA/Freedom

11. Volunteers

12. Veterans

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

JFK

Yesterday was the 45th Anniversary of the assassination of JFK.

JFK

Yesterday was the 45th Anniversary of the assassination of JFK.

Social Studies Left Behind

Our seven year old son is fascinated with the US Presidents. He has researched several presidents on his own, finding out some interesting facts. He asks a lot of questions, recently I was asked "Mommy, why was Bill Clinton impeached?" (I think I'll let daddy handle that one!) My dad was a history teacher, and "Pappy" loves to talk to our son about the presidents.

I am not too thrilled with the curriculum at our son's school. It is clear that the Federal No Child Left Behind Act's (NCLB) emphasis on reading and math is squeezing social studies out of the curriculum. Our son has had a few civics lessons, and has done a science unit on rocks, but his day is mostly spent doing reading and math. His homework is reading and math worksheets every night. It has become repetitive busy work. I can see a big change in the classroom since I taught art in the district 10 yrs. ago. The teachers seemed to have more freedom to teach creative lessons, they had more time for drama and art projects. Now it seems like there is a standardized curriculum that all teachers must follow.

I believe that a good social studies curriculum can integrate literacy skills. I have written about how a good arts program integrates reading and math skills too. Teaching "across the curriculum" makes learning more meaningful to students, and increases their motivation to learn, and it connects learning to real life.

Here's why I think Social Studies/History is so important:

1. Boys are usually more interested in non-fiction, and will be motivated to read.

2. Social Studies teaches kids to see from many different perspectives, to better understand diversity.

3. Critical thinking and problem solving skills are encouraged. And kids will need these skills to make it in this "techno" world.

4. Students are engaged in the learning process rather than just completing tasks to improve test scores.

5. Teaches kids to become engaged citizens who understand how our country works. Democracy works best when citizens are able to think freely. That's why they call it a "liberal arts education."

Can you name the president pictured?

(Hint: he is considered one of the worst US Presidents and is the only president from the state of New Hampshire)

Social Studies Left Behind

Our seven year old son is fascinated with the US Presidents. He has researched several presidents on his own, finding out some interesting facts. He asks a lot of questions, recently I was asked "Mommy, why was Bill Clinton impeached?" (I think I'll let daddy handle that one!) My dad was a history teacher, and "Pappy" loves to talk to our son about the presidents.

I am not too thrilled with the curriculum at our son's school. It is clear that the Federal No Child Left Behind Act's (NCLB) emphasis on reading and math is squeezing social studies out of the curriculum. Our son has had a few civics lessons, and has done a science unit on rocks, but his day is mostly spent doing reading and math. His homework is reading and math worksheets every night. It has become repetitive busy work. I can see a big change in the classroom since I taught art in the district 10 yrs. ago. The teachers seemed to have more freedom to teach creative lessons, they had more time for drama and art projects. Now it seems like there is a standardized curriculum that all teachers must follow.

I believe that a good social studies curriculum can integrate literacy skills. I have written about how a good arts program integrates reading and math skills too. Teaching "across the curriculum" makes learning more meaningful to students, and increases their motivation to learn, and it connects learning to real life.

Here's why I think Social Studies/History is so important:

1. Boys are usually more interested in non-fiction, and will be motivated to read.

2. Social Studies teaches kids to see from many different perspectives, to better understand diversity.

3. Critical thinking and problem solving skills are encouraged. And kids will need these skills to make it in this "techno" world.

4. Students are engaged in the learning process rather than just completing tasks to improve test scores.

5. Teaches kids to become engaged citizens who understand how our country works. Democracy works best when citizens are able to think freely. That's why they call it a "liberal arts education."

Can you name the president pictured?

(Hint: he is considered one of the worst US Presidents and is the only president from the state of New Hampshire)

First Grandma!

Have you heard the news that Michelle Obama's mom Marian Robinson may be moving in to the White House? I think it would be great to have a "first Grandma." The photo I have posted shows Barack Obama sitting with his mother in law, relaxing and holding hands, so it looks like he won't mind the "mother-in-law" being around.

This photo was taken while they were awaiting the election results.

Grandma will be there to take care of the two young Obama girls, instead of a nanny. Now here are some real family values to admire.

This is from ABC News:

"Now that the Obamas are headed to the White House, Michelle Obama's mother, Marian Robinson, will be making the move as well. Family friends have told the New York Times that the Obamas relied on Robinson to care for Malia and Sasha Obama while their parents were out campaigning.Robinson, a widow and retired bank secretary from the South Side of Chicago, will follow the Obamas to Washington D.C. to support the first family, according to the Obamas' family friend Verna Williams.None of this is anything new or unusual to American families who have integrated grandmoms and granddads into their households, especially to assist with or sometimes take over child care.Of course, the Obamas are by all accounts an intact and nurturing family, and they don't use a nanny to take care of their two young daughters -- they use grandma."

First Grandma!

Have you heard the news that Michelle Obama's mom Marian Robinson may be moving in to the White House? I think it would be great to have a "first Grandma." The photo I have posted shows Barack Obama sitting with his mother in law, relaxing and holding hands, so it looks like he won't mind the "mother-in-law" being around.

This photo was taken while they were awaiting the election results.

Grandma will be there to take care of the two young Obama girls, instead of a nanny. Now here are some real family values to admire.

This is from ABC News:

"Now that the Obamas are headed to the White House, Michelle Obama's mother, Marian Robinson, will be making the move as well. Family friends have told the New York Times that the Obamas relied on Robinson to care for Malia and Sasha Obama while their parents were out campaigning.Robinson, a widow and retired bank secretary from the South Side of Chicago, will follow the Obamas to Washington D.C. to support the first family, according to the Obamas' family friend Verna Williams.None of this is anything new or unusual to American families who have integrated grandmoms and granddads into their households, especially to assist with or sometimes take over child care.Of course, the Obamas are by all accounts an intact and nurturing family, and they don't use a nanny to take care of their two young daughters -- they use grandma."

The "Center-Right" Myth

The latest media talking point: "America is a center-right country." Really?
I don't think so. This is just more desperate spin spewed by fearful right-wing pundits. Same as the "socialist" and "marxist" and "terrorist pal" crapola. People have been brainwashed by right wing media clowns like Rush and the Faux News Channel who have demonized the word "liberal." Why can't they just accept that most Americans DO want progressive solutions - universal healthcare, higher minimum wage, better public education, environmental protection.

It's not like we are expecting government to solve all of our problems, it's just that the playing field has been tilted SO far against us (because of a failed conservative ideology) we now want some government action. Tax cuts for the wealthy and deregulation does not work. The majority of American voters have rejected the right wing ideology. Someone once said "ideas have consequences."

Thanks to the "small d's": an engaged grass-roots base of community organizers, millions of volunteers, over 2 million small donors- these are the people who helped elect Barack Obama, overcoming the forces of money and power that have been in the way of real change. If we were such a center-right country, then why did the Republicans need to use dirty tricks to try to get elected, while the Dems won on the issues?

The "Center-Right" Myth

The latest media talking point: "America is a center-right country." Really?
I don't think so. This is just more desperate spin spewed by fearful right-wing pundits. Same as the "socialist" and "marxist" and "terrorist pal" crapola. People have been brainwashed by right wing media clowns like Rush and the Faux News Channel who have demonized the word "liberal." Why can't they just accept that most Americans DO want progressive solutions - universal healthcare, higher minimum wage, better public education, environmental protection.

It's not like we are expecting government to solve all of our problems, it's just that the playing field has been tilted SO far against us (because of a failed conservative ideology) we now want some government action. Tax cuts for the wealthy and deregulation does not work. The majority of American voters have rejected the right wing ideology. Someone once said "ideas have consequences."

Thanks to the "small d's": an engaged grass-roots base of community organizers, millions of volunteers, over 2 million small donors- these are the people who helped elect Barack Obama, overcoming the forces of money and power that have been in the way of real change. If we were such a center-right country, then why did the Republicans need to use dirty tricks to try to get elected, while the Dems won on the issues?

Photo of the Day

Photo by Dave Baun, Allentown Chen Arts Group
Can anyone name this Allentown Church?

Photo of the Day

Photo by Dave Baun, Allentown Chen Arts Group
Can anyone name this Allentown Church?

Lehigh County Dems Must De-Throne DA Jim Martin in 2011

[1/7/11 UpDate: the popular LVS blog post "Pole Dancing in the Theatre District" has been replaced w/ this even more popular post]

Crooked and incompetent Lehigh County DA Jim Martin has not faced a Democratic challenger since 1999.

Thanks to (hopefully awake now) asleep at the switch Lehigh County Democrats, Martin, a Republican, ran unopposed in 2003, and again in 2007.

It's high (hiccup) time for a change in 2011.

Here's why ...

* Power-mad King DA Jim Martin continuously sticks his big fat bulbous 'n boozy red-veined nose into matters he has no business meddling in, like the mayorship of Macungie. Our DA should have better things to do.

* Like for example reading his mail and preventing quadruple homicides.

* DA Martin routinely abuses the unchecked power of his office to victimize innocent citizens like Veronica Rohrer for grandstanding political gain, while curiously not being able to find enough evidence to charge PA's most prolific serial killer Charles Cullen with any crimes-- and whew, breathe easy there friend of Jimbo, St. Luke's Hospital, you've been spared mega millions in litigation from family members of patients murdered by Charles Cullen at St. Luke's Hospital and screw those victims' family members, eh Jim?

* Martin blows big cases and lets guilty killers walk free (or did Martin falsely charge 2 moreinnocent citizens in this case, it was one or the other, you decide), while shamefully dragging his feet on DUI homicide cases and re-victimizing already grieving families.

* A specialty of DA Martin's is wasting taxpayer time and money on petty, ego-driven power struggles with local judges he doesn't "own" through intimidation or campaign contributions (Martin receives money from contributors on an ongoing basis which he then passes along to judges and other politicos since he doesn't need the cash for his own campaigning because the Dems never oppose him).

* Recently, Jim Martin even enlisted the collusion of his GOP pal PA State Attorney General (and now Governor) Tom Corbett in attempting to advance totally trumped-up and phony criminal charges against a grieving father, yours truly, as vendetta for my having hogtied Martin's hands with public exposure and then quashing his efforts to fix the prosecution of my daughter Sheena's killer. Thankfully, my attorney and I outmaneuvered Governor Tom Corbett and DA Jim Martin's petty payback attempt.

* Along the way, and in arrogantly full view of the press and the public, DA (for now) Jim Martin rewards connected cronies from The Morning Call, the local monopoly "newspaper" that has shielded Martin from all criticism and scrutiny ever since his first (hiccup) stumble-bum day in office.

Don't expect to read about any of this in The Morning Call "newspaper" ...

or anywhere else in our local blogosphere.

Because everybody's either in the bag for Jim Martin, or scared shitless of him.

Lehigh County Democrats, too? We'll see, eh?

If they don't announce a Democratic candidate soon, we'll have our answer.

FULL DISCLOSURE

I have a very personal axe to grind w/ DA Jim Martin and The Morning Call "newspaper" and I grind it every chance I get. You can read about it here ...

ALLENTOWN: PART 3

and here ...

ALLENTOWN: PART 4

11/24/10 UpDate: This morning, The Morning Call "newspaper" online re-published, on its front page, their cheerleading news story on DA Jim Martin's re-election announcement that was already a week old. Obviously, the "newspaper" (which has always been a press release machine for Martin) is afraid and feeling the need to counter our efforts here at LVS (around 11:00am, they deleted it because of the mass email attention we drew to it). Game on.

Lehigh County Dems Must De-Throne DA Jim Martin in 2011

[1/7/11 UpDate: the popular LVS blog post "Pole Dancing in the Theatre District" has been replaced w/ this even more popular post]

Crooked and incompetent Lehigh County DA Jim Martin has not faced a Democratic challenger since 1999.

Thanks to (hopefully awake now) asleep at the switch Lehigh County Democrats, Martin, a Republican, ran unopposed in 2003, and again in 2007.

It's high (hiccup) time for a change in 2011.

Here's why ...

* Power-mad King DA Jim Martin continuously sticks his big fat bulbous 'n boozy red-veined nose into matters he has no business meddling in, like the mayorship of Macungie. Our DA should have better things to do.

* Like for example reading his mail and preventing quadruple homicides.

* DA Martin routinely abuses the unchecked power of his office to victimize innocent citizens like Veronica Rohrer for grandstanding political gain, while curiously not being able to find enough evidence to charge PA's most prolific serial killer Charles Cullen with any crimes-- and whew, breathe easy there friend of Jimbo, St. Luke's Hospital, you've been spared mega millions in litigation from family members of patients murdered by Charles Cullen at St. Luke's Hospital and screw those victims' family members, eh Jim?

* Martin blows big cases and lets guilty killers walk free (or did Martin falsely charge 2 moreinnocent citizens in this case, it was one or the other, you decide), while shamefully dragging his feet on DUI homicide cases and re-victimizing already grieving families.

* A specialty of DA Martin's is wasting taxpayer time and money on petty, ego-driven power struggles with local judges he doesn't "own" through intimidation or campaign contributions (Martin receives money from contributors on an ongoing basis which he then passes along to judges and other politicos since he doesn't need the cash for his own campaigning because the Dems never oppose him).

* Recently, Jim Martin even enlisted the collusion of his GOP pal PA State Attorney General (and now Governor) Tom Corbett in attempting to advance totally trumped-up and phony criminal charges against a grieving father, yours truly, as vendetta for my having hogtied Martin's hands with public exposure and then quashing his efforts to fix the prosecution of my daughter Sheena's killer. Thankfully, my attorney and I outmaneuvered Governor Tom Corbett and DA Jim Martin's petty payback attempt.

* Along the way, and in arrogantly full view of the press and the public, DA (for now) Jim Martin rewards connected cronies from The Morning Call, the local monopoly "newspaper" that has shielded Martin from all criticism and scrutiny ever since his first (hiccup) stumble-bum day in office.

Don't expect to read about any of this in The Morning Call "newspaper" ...

or anywhere else in our local blogosphere.

Because everybody's either in the bag for Jim Martin, or scared shitless of him.

Lehigh County Democrats, too? We'll see, eh?

If they don't announce a Democratic candidate soon, we'll have our answer.

FULL DISCLOSURE

I have a very personal axe to grind w/ DA Jim Martin and The Morning Call "newspaper" and I grind it every chance I get. You can read about it here ...

ALLENTOWN: PART 3

and here ...

ALLENTOWN: PART 4

11/24/10 UpDate: This morning, The Morning Call "newspaper" online re-published, on its front page, their cheerleading news story on DA Jim Martin's re-election announcement that was already a week old. Obviously, the "newspaper" (which has always been a press release machine for Martin) is afraid and feeling the need to counter our efforts here at LVS (around 11:00am, they deleted it because of the mass email attention we drew to it). Game on.