Sunday, December 31, 2006
Railroad Earth at The Sherman 12-30-06
Our Good Friends at The Sherman Theatre in Stroudsburg, PA presented their pre New Years Eve Party with a concert by Railroad Earth along with The Hackensaw Boys. It was a great evening filled with plenty of Bluegrass music to keep everyone tapping their toes and dancing throughout the theatre and lobby. Our Good Friends Our Good Friends Brook, Cheryl Yost, and Richard Berkowitz (all of The Sherman Theatre), along with Margie Cohen, Fran Henry, Gary Lambert, and Arline M. Smeltz who were a part of the vast audience who attended the event. The Sherman Theatre’s next show will be The Fine Arts Discovery Series’ presentation of Tom Chapin on January 14th, 2007. Please contact Our Good Friends at The Sherman Theatre at 570-420-2808 for more information. You’ll find more photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society Music OND 06 Gallery at 360.yahoo.com/pauladam.
Tuesday, December 26, 2006
Revolution as the true spirit of Christmas by Silvia Brandon Pérez
A Note From Paul: The following is an essay from Our Good Friend Silvia Brandon Pérez. Please feel free to post your comments here and I’ll be sure to share them with her. I’m sure she would appreciate any thoughts you may have regarding her words. In the meantime, please enjoy “Revolution as the true spirit of Christmas.”
Christmas, navidad, natividad, the nativity, the birth of a powerful and holy being. You do not have to be Christian to acknowledge that the Jesus whose birth Christians celebrate at this time of year was a powerful and holy being, one who worked throughout his short life to ‘revolutionize’ the times, worlds without end. He came to enforce perennial principles, such as truth and love and beauty and yes, peace. As any revolutionary, he threatened the status quo, threatened the ‘business as usual’ of the time, because with his every word, he demanded a fundamental change, not in perennial principles but in the way they are conceived, understood, acted upon. For this, as with so many others who threaten ‘business as usual,’ he was imprisoned, tortured, and horribly put to death. Shades of Guantánamo and Abu Ghraib. Often the simple way of seeing things is truly the best way. Then as now, the custom was to use simple words but to paint and clothe them in different fashions, what we call today, the spin or framing of issues. Thus, you could take a word such as peace and wage war ‘for’ peace. You could say that all men are created equal and then use that lofty principle to ensure unequal treatment based on race, nationality, gender, or even sexual preference. In the name of universal love, you could spread hatred far and wide.
The concepts were there, as Plato saw them, lofty and supreme, but it is what was done and what continues to be done with them that Jesus wanted to change; he wanted to ‘revolvere’ which is the Latin for revolve from which the term revolution issues; to turn something on its axis and bring it back to the starting point. He called for a change in paradigm, meaning, a fundamental change in how something is seen or visualized.
As I write this on December 23rd in the year 2006, millions go about shopping for gifts that they may celebrate a holy day honoring the birth of a man who was born in poverty and spent most of his life preaching with no recognition, no congressional seat, no official status or university doctoral dissertations. Millions more will die today and tomorrow and on Christmas day and on the day after that, including many new born babes, because they will lack the wherewithal to sustain life while others will exchange frequently meaningless gifts and engage in an orgy of food and celebration. In the US, some will jeopardize their continued existence, mortgage payments, health, in the frenzy to have a “merry Christmas.”
For all who want truth, peace, love and justice for all, let us consider the spirit of this man of Galilee and what it is that he spoke about, what he represented. We have pallid representations of the things he said, for they were taken down by human messengers and translated, and things are frequently lost in translation, but we can glean even from the imperfect renderings the true message.
In one of his most famous speeches, which has become known as the Sermon on the Mount, he blesses those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled, and those who are persecuted for righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. He blesses the merciful who shall obtain mercy and the peacemakers who shall be called sons and daughters of God.
We are living in dire times, when more than ever we need the strength to seek righteousness, mercy, and peace. A time when, lacking leaders who stand firm on principles, we must be our own leaders. Jesus said that he had come to fulfill the law, eternal law, that which cannot be clothed or framed or disguised. It is time that we demand that the law, without spin or framing, be fulfilled to its last jot and title. That we demand an end to death, and torture, to war and the profiteering from war, to poverty in all its guises, and that we seek to secure the just punishment of all those who have broken the law. That we ask, as he asked, for true revolution. For only then may we be called the children of Spirit.
A thoughtful and revolutionary holiday to each and all of you, my brethren.
Christmas, navidad, natividad, the nativity, the birth of a powerful and holy being. You do not have to be Christian to acknowledge that the Jesus whose birth Christians celebrate at this time of year was a powerful and holy being, one who worked throughout his short life to ‘revolutionize’ the times, worlds without end. He came to enforce perennial principles, such as truth and love and beauty and yes, peace. As any revolutionary, he threatened the status quo, threatened the ‘business as usual’ of the time, because with his every word, he demanded a fundamental change, not in perennial principles but in the way they are conceived, understood, acted upon. For this, as with so many others who threaten ‘business as usual,’ he was imprisoned, tortured, and horribly put to death. Shades of Guantánamo and Abu Ghraib. Often the simple way of seeing things is truly the best way. Then as now, the custom was to use simple words but to paint and clothe them in different fashions, what we call today, the spin or framing of issues. Thus, you could take a word such as peace and wage war ‘for’ peace. You could say that all men are created equal and then use that lofty principle to ensure unequal treatment based on race, nationality, gender, or even sexual preference. In the name of universal love, you could spread hatred far and wide.
The concepts were there, as Plato saw them, lofty and supreme, but it is what was done and what continues to be done with them that Jesus wanted to change; he wanted to ‘revolvere’ which is the Latin for revolve from which the term revolution issues; to turn something on its axis and bring it back to the starting point. He called for a change in paradigm, meaning, a fundamental change in how something is seen or visualized.
As I write this on December 23rd in the year 2006, millions go about shopping for gifts that they may celebrate a holy day honoring the birth of a man who was born in poverty and spent most of his life preaching with no recognition, no congressional seat, no official status or university doctoral dissertations. Millions more will die today and tomorrow and on Christmas day and on the day after that, including many new born babes, because they will lack the wherewithal to sustain life while others will exchange frequently meaningless gifts and engage in an orgy of food and celebration. In the US, some will jeopardize their continued existence, mortgage payments, health, in the frenzy to have a “merry Christmas.”
For all who want truth, peace, love and justice for all, let us consider the spirit of this man of Galilee and what it is that he spoke about, what he represented. We have pallid representations of the things he said, for they were taken down by human messengers and translated, and things are frequently lost in translation, but we can glean even from the imperfect renderings the true message.
In one of his most famous speeches, which has become known as the Sermon on the Mount, he blesses those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled, and those who are persecuted for righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. He blesses the merciful who shall obtain mercy and the peacemakers who shall be called sons and daughters of God.
We are living in dire times, when more than ever we need the strength to seek righteousness, mercy, and peace. A time when, lacking leaders who stand firm on principles, we must be our own leaders. Jesus said that he had come to fulfill the law, eternal law, that which cannot be clothed or framed or disguised. It is time that we demand that the law, without spin or framing, be fulfilled to its last jot and title. That we demand an end to death, and torture, to war and the profiteering from war, to poverty in all its guises, and that we seek to secure the just punishment of all those who have broken the law. That we ask, as he asked, for true revolution. For only then may we be called the children of Spirit.
A thoughtful and revolutionary holiday to each and all of you, my brethren.
An Entertaining Season 12-24-06
I experienced a great many holiday celebrations this season. Two of them took place in venues not only known for their love for the arts, but as places people can go to share their faith. Our Good Friends at The Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of the Poconos (UUFP) in Stroudsburg, PA who celebrated the season by honoring Christmas (Christian), Hanukah (Jewish), Kwanzaa (African), The Lotus Candle (Buddhist), and other traditions. It was an informative service filled with good times and fellowship. Our Good Friends Arline M. Smeltz and Thomas Busteed were among those who participated. Our Good Friends at The Presbyterian Church of the Mountain in Delaware Water Gap, PA held their Annual Christmas Eve Jazz service which many consider a seasonal extension of Our Good Friends at The Celebration of the Arts (COTA) festival that takes place in September. The evening was filled with lively but thoughtful music, a great deal of toe tapping and hand clapping, and some meaningful stories relating to the birth of Jesus. Our Good Friends Marty Wilson, Robert Hartman, Saralyn Whitaker, Tony Dellaria, and Jay Rattman were among the many who participated in the service along side an entertaining jazz orchestra while Our Good Friends Arline M. Smeltz, Thomas Busteed, Cheryl Reed, Sue Wilson, and James Dellaria were a part of an appreciative audience. Please contact Our Good Friends at The Presbyterian Church of the Mountain at 570-476-0345 for more information. Due to the religious nature of the events, no photographs were taken.
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
Vienna Sherman 12-20-06
Our Good Friends at The Sherman Theatre in Stroudsburg, PA hosted The Vienna Choir Boys. The enchanting international music delighted all who attended the event. Our Good Friends Cheryl Yost, Fran Henry, and Richard Berkowitz ( all of The Sherman Theatre), along with Arline M. Smeltz, Gary Lambert, and Jean Richardson of The Kirkridge Retreat Center in Bangor, PA were a part of an appreciative audience. Our Good Friends at The Sherman Theatre’s next show will be their Holiday Bash 2006 on December 22nd. Please contact Our Good Friends at The Sherman Theatre at 570-420-2808 for more information. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society Music OND 06 Gallery at 360.yahoo.com/pauladam.
Sunday, December 17, 2006
The Sherman Messiah 12-17-06
Our Good Friends at The Sherman Theatre in Stroudsburg, PA hosted The Pocono Choral Society’s presentation of Handel’s “Messiah.” The music from the chorus and orchestra filled the theatre and the souls of all who attended the event. Our Good Friends Sarah Leamy, Bob Hartman, and Beth Faulstick were among the many who shared their talents during the performance while Our Good Friends Fran Henry and Richard Berkowitz (of The Sherman Theatre), along with Arline M. Smeltz who were a part of an enchanted audience. The Sherman Theatre’s next show will be The Vienna Choir Boys on December 20th. Please contact Our Good Friends at The Sherman Theatre at 570-420-2808 for more information. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society Music OND 06 Gallery at 360.yahoo.com/pauladam.
Saturday, December 16, 2006
A Sherman Christmas Carol 12-15-06
Our Good Friends at The Sherman Theatre in Stroudsburg, PA hosted Our Good Friends at The Pennsylvania Reparatory Company’s production of “Tiny Tim’s Christmas Carol” written by Our Good Friend Michael Harron and Rick Cummins. It was a nice evening out and it was great to see so many of Our Good Friends in The Forwardian Arts Society involved in the production. A theatrical review which includes the names of Our Good Friends along with others where were involved is posted in another area on this blog. But, I would like to mention Our Good Friends Brook, Cheryl Yost, Fran Henry, and Richard Berkowitz (all of The Sherman Theatre), along with Marie Steeger, Gary Lambert, and Arline M. Smeltz who were a part of the small but appreciative audience. The Sherman Theatre’s next show will be The Pocono Choral Society’s presentation of Handel’s “Messiah” on December 17th. Please contact Our Good Friends at The Sherman Theatre at 570-420-2808 for more information. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society Theatre Gallery at 360.yahoo.com/pauladam.
Theatrical Review: TINY TIM’S CHRISTMAS CAROL by Michael Harron and Rick Cummins
TINY TIM’S CHRISTMAS CAROL by Michael Harron and Rick Cummins
Theatrical Review by: Paul Adam Smeltz
According to several accounts of the public readings Charles Dickens gave after his novel, “A Christmas Carol” was published, the intent of the work was meant to be a cautionary tale directed to the business community who has lost their idealism of providing a service to those who purchased their offerings and were a beneficial part of their extended community and became more concerned with their “bottom line” than the lives they effected in their cold hearted “business” enterprises. Dickens saw such business practices leading to their demise in the same uncaring environment which they encouraged through their creation of it. Unfortunately, this cautionary tale to the business community rings as true today as it did over 100 years ago when it was first published.
The numerous film and theatrical productions adapted from the original work has expanded and updated the novel to a morality tale for their audience to learn from. It is easy for us to see ourselves in the Ebenezer Scrooge character as we encounter all the commercialism and depression the holidays have come to be known for. “A Christmas Carol” helps us to remember and reflect upon the peace and good will which is free and available to all to partake of. We need only go beyond what we see to experience what is really there. “Tiny Tim’s Christmas Carol” continues to help in this re-envisioning the season.
“Tiny Tim’s Christmas Carol” by Michael Harron* and Rick Cummins does this in several unique ways. First, (as the titles indicates) the story is told from the perspective of Tiny Tim. This beloved character encourages us to see his world and our own through his innocent and accepting childlike eyes.
Second, the play explored the influences Scrooge’s father had on his present perception on life and his need to be as cold as he has become. I, personally would have liked to see more of this study of Ebenezer’s character, but the nature of this “Holiday fare” musical was to amuse it’s audience and not to engage in deep excursions into their soul.
Finally, the play included a Nativity Scene. I’m pretty sure Charles Dickens didn’t have such a scene to be included in his novel in mind when he wrote it, but it did enhance the work. The scene took place during the section of the novel where Scrooge confronts his own mortality and must come to terms with the consequences of his actions. This includes the death of Tiny Tim which was related to the firing of his father Bob Cratchit. The inclusion of the Nativity Scene reiterated one of the main themes of the play. This theme was that there is always hope whatever the future may bring. It is though this Nativity Scene we develop a deeper understanding of Scrooge’s transformation from a cold soul to a beneficiary to the community all who are a part of it.
The Sherman Theatre and Performing Arts Center* in Stroudsburg, PA hosted The Pennsylvania Reparatory Company’s* production of “Tiny Tim’s Christmas Carol” by Michael Harron* and Rick Cummins. The cast included Danielle Catrillo (Tiny Tim), Chris Martinelli (Bob Cratchit), Michael Harron (Scrooge), Justin Miller, (Mr. Clay-Mr. Fezziwig), Byrdie Jacques (Mrs. Blythe-Mrs. Dilbert), Matt Christie (Father Scrooge-Constable-Young Jacob Marley-Prty Guest-Joe), Evan Wichman (Teen Scrooge-Wandering Spirits), Tiffany Lenkerdorf (Teen Fan), Neal Johnson* (Fred-Young Scrooge), Al Rauch (John Edmond-Party Guest-Ghost of Christmas Future-Poultry Man), Debbie Chambers (Mrs. Cratchit), Cassie Diedolf (Martha Cratchit), Tameshaa Ventiere (Belinda Cratchit), Travis Southard (Peter Cratchit), Marty Courtney* (Marley’s Ghost), Mike Catrillo (Wandering Spirits-Ghost of Christmas Present), Sara Furguson (Wandering Spirits-Belle-Matilda), Molly Brunkard (Wandering Spirits-Adult Fan), Nance Brown (Ghost of Christmas Present), Maili Johnson (Child Fan-Fred and Gloria’s Children-Want), Matt Catrillo (Boy Scrooge-Newsboy), Antoinette Martinelli (Mrs. Fezziwig-Party Guest-Mrs. Haversham), Jessica Johnson (Gloria), Liam Johnson (Fred and Gloria’s Children-Ignorance), Simone Colon (Party Guest), Michael Repsher (Baby Jesus), Kari Repsher (Mary), Casey Repsher (Joseph), Emiko Okamoto and Sosha Young (Villagers), and Keyanna Colon, Samatha Schilling, Sydney Southland, Faith Rivera, Edi Martionovic, Adriana Negron, Victoria Negron, Jacob Smith, Vicky Ortiz, Theresa Ortiz, and Mikey Ortiz ass the Merry Villagers. Understudies were Liz Rivera for Mrs. Cratchit and Wayne Doddard for Bob Cratchit.
Production staff included Michael Harron* (Director), Kieth Labar (Musical Director), Joanne Barbetta (Stage Manager), Liz Egan-Rivera (Asst Stage Manager), Irene Gardner (2nd Asst Stage Manager), Leigh Mundy Fretz (Lighting Design), Mark Conners (Set Design), Nance Brown (Musical Staging), Mary Ann Wichman (Costumes), Arthur Ritter (Sound), The Sherman Staff (Microphones, Lightboard, and Stage Crew), Al Rauch and Byrdie Jacques (Props), and Barbara Dierdolf (Backstate Assistant).
A photograph relating to the production can be found in The Forwardian Arts Society Theatre Gallery under the heading “A Sherman Christmas Carol 12-15-06” on The Forwardian Arts Society Blog at 360.yahoo.com/pauladam. (*) indicates members of The Forwardian Arts Society.
Theatrical Review by: Paul Adam Smeltz
According to several accounts of the public readings Charles Dickens gave after his novel, “A Christmas Carol” was published, the intent of the work was meant to be a cautionary tale directed to the business community who has lost their idealism of providing a service to those who purchased their offerings and were a beneficial part of their extended community and became more concerned with their “bottom line” than the lives they effected in their cold hearted “business” enterprises. Dickens saw such business practices leading to their demise in the same uncaring environment which they encouraged through their creation of it. Unfortunately, this cautionary tale to the business community rings as true today as it did over 100 years ago when it was first published.
The numerous film and theatrical productions adapted from the original work has expanded and updated the novel to a morality tale for their audience to learn from. It is easy for us to see ourselves in the Ebenezer Scrooge character as we encounter all the commercialism and depression the holidays have come to be known for. “A Christmas Carol” helps us to remember and reflect upon the peace and good will which is free and available to all to partake of. We need only go beyond what we see to experience what is really there. “Tiny Tim’s Christmas Carol” continues to help in this re-envisioning the season.
“Tiny Tim’s Christmas Carol” by Michael Harron* and Rick Cummins does this in several unique ways. First, (as the titles indicates) the story is told from the perspective of Tiny Tim. This beloved character encourages us to see his world and our own through his innocent and accepting childlike eyes.
Second, the play explored the influences Scrooge’s father had on his present perception on life and his need to be as cold as he has become. I, personally would have liked to see more of this study of Ebenezer’s character, but the nature of this “Holiday fare” musical was to amuse it’s audience and not to engage in deep excursions into their soul.
Finally, the play included a Nativity Scene. I’m pretty sure Charles Dickens didn’t have such a scene to be included in his novel in mind when he wrote it, but it did enhance the work. The scene took place during the section of the novel where Scrooge confronts his own mortality and must come to terms with the consequences of his actions. This includes the death of Tiny Tim which was related to the firing of his father Bob Cratchit. The inclusion of the Nativity Scene reiterated one of the main themes of the play. This theme was that there is always hope whatever the future may bring. It is though this Nativity Scene we develop a deeper understanding of Scrooge’s transformation from a cold soul to a beneficiary to the community all who are a part of it.
The Sherman Theatre and Performing Arts Center* in Stroudsburg, PA hosted The Pennsylvania Reparatory Company’s* production of “Tiny Tim’s Christmas Carol” by Michael Harron* and Rick Cummins. The cast included Danielle Catrillo (Tiny Tim), Chris Martinelli (Bob Cratchit), Michael Harron (Scrooge), Justin Miller, (Mr. Clay-Mr. Fezziwig), Byrdie Jacques (Mrs. Blythe-Mrs. Dilbert), Matt Christie (Father Scrooge-Constable-Young Jacob Marley-Prty Guest-Joe), Evan Wichman (Teen Scrooge-Wandering Spirits), Tiffany Lenkerdorf (Teen Fan), Neal Johnson* (Fred-Young Scrooge), Al Rauch (John Edmond-Party Guest-Ghost of Christmas Future-Poultry Man), Debbie Chambers (Mrs. Cratchit), Cassie Diedolf (Martha Cratchit), Tameshaa Ventiere (Belinda Cratchit), Travis Southard (Peter Cratchit), Marty Courtney* (Marley’s Ghost), Mike Catrillo (Wandering Spirits-Ghost of Christmas Present), Sara Furguson (Wandering Spirits-Belle-Matilda), Molly Brunkard (Wandering Spirits-Adult Fan), Nance Brown (Ghost of Christmas Present), Maili Johnson (Child Fan-Fred and Gloria’s Children-Want), Matt Catrillo (Boy Scrooge-Newsboy), Antoinette Martinelli (Mrs. Fezziwig-Party Guest-Mrs. Haversham), Jessica Johnson (Gloria), Liam Johnson (Fred and Gloria’s Children-Ignorance), Simone Colon (Party Guest), Michael Repsher (Baby Jesus), Kari Repsher (Mary), Casey Repsher (Joseph), Emiko Okamoto and Sosha Young (Villagers), and Keyanna Colon, Samatha Schilling, Sydney Southland, Faith Rivera, Edi Martionovic, Adriana Negron, Victoria Negron, Jacob Smith, Vicky Ortiz, Theresa Ortiz, and Mikey Ortiz ass the Merry Villagers. Understudies were Liz Rivera for Mrs. Cratchit and Wayne Doddard for Bob Cratchit.
Production staff included Michael Harron* (Director), Kieth Labar (Musical Director), Joanne Barbetta (Stage Manager), Liz Egan-Rivera (Asst Stage Manager), Irene Gardner (2nd Asst Stage Manager), Leigh Mundy Fretz (Lighting Design), Mark Conners (Set Design), Nance Brown (Musical Staging), Mary Ann Wichman (Costumes), Arthur Ritter (Sound), The Sherman Staff (Microphones, Lightboard, and Stage Crew), Al Rauch and Byrdie Jacques (Props), and Barbara Dierdolf (Backstate Assistant).
A photograph relating to the production can be found in The Forwardian Arts Society Theatre Gallery under the heading “A Sherman Christmas Carol 12-15-06” on The Forwardian Arts Society Blog at 360.yahoo.com/pauladam. (*) indicates members of The Forwardian Arts Society.
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
A Field of Lilies by Iambia
The following is an excerpt from a short story Our Good Friend Iambia is writing.
They call me Lily. They said it was because I was born with a birthmark on my left thigh that looks a lot like a real lily, just not as majestic, not as loved, not as beautiful. I’ve never felt much like a lily, so I don’t know why they decided to name me that. But it’s my name, and I’ve gotta live with it, even though it don’t feel much like the truth. But I don’t know much about the truth these days, maybe never have. My daddy told me there ain’t no truth in the world. He said the sooner I realized and accepted that, the better off I’d be. But believing that ain’t made me much better off. He still come in my room at night, whispering in my ear about mama and her triflin’ ways. He says he feel better when he touch me. And he touch me all the time, almost every night. Some nights, I pretend I like it. Other nights, I wish I were dead. The wish I were dead days come more often as the months go by.
“Daddy, I don’t wanna play tonight,” I mumbled, rubbing the sleep from my eyes.
“Baby, daddy need to feel good, and mama fell asleep again,” he insisted as he pushed the door open wide, letting in the light from the hall. He was standing in his boxers, grinning like he won the lottery. I was feeling like I lost it.
“Then wake her up. I wanna sleep,” I continued, hoping he would give up.
“You can sleep afterwards,” he almost shouted, slamming the door behind him.
This is how it was every time he came in to be with me. He would never let me say no. It always had to be yes. He even came to me on the night of my thirteenth birthday, said he wanted to give me a birthday present, something special just from him. It was the first of many birthdays. I was hoping for a break that night, but after the first slap across my mouth for asking, I knew there was no use trying to stop it. So I pretended he was Sammy from my gym class. Sammy was the cutest boy in the school. But he didn’t notice me. He hardly even said hello sometimes. Sammy had all the girls chasing after him. But I wouldn’t chase him. I just watched him from a distance, hoping that one day he would see me. I saw him though. I saw him almost every time my daddy came in to be with me. I saw Sammy touching me and making me feel good. Sammy was a good lover, best there ever was. But some days, Sammy didn’t show up. And I was alone, alone in my mind with my daddy and his heavy breathing and pumping. He pumped me like I wasn’t a person, like I wasn’t there, like I was just something for him to get off on, like a blow up doll. I wished every night that someone would stick a pin in me, deflate me so he couldn’t touch me no more, so he couldn’t reach me in the places I tried to hide.
They call me Lily. They said it was because I was born with a birthmark on my left thigh that looks a lot like a real lily, just not as majestic, not as loved, not as beautiful. I’ve never felt much like a lily, so I don’t know why they decided to name me that. But it’s my name, and I’ve gotta live with it, even though it don’t feel much like the truth. But I don’t know much about the truth these days, maybe never have. My daddy told me there ain’t no truth in the world. He said the sooner I realized and accepted that, the better off I’d be. But believing that ain’t made me much better off. He still come in my room at night, whispering in my ear about mama and her triflin’ ways. He says he feel better when he touch me. And he touch me all the time, almost every night. Some nights, I pretend I like it. Other nights, I wish I were dead. The wish I were dead days come more often as the months go by.
“Daddy, I don’t wanna play tonight,” I mumbled, rubbing the sleep from my eyes.
“Baby, daddy need to feel good, and mama fell asleep again,” he insisted as he pushed the door open wide, letting in the light from the hall. He was standing in his boxers, grinning like he won the lottery. I was feeling like I lost it.
“Then wake her up. I wanna sleep,” I continued, hoping he would give up.
“You can sleep afterwards,” he almost shouted, slamming the door behind him.
This is how it was every time he came in to be with me. He would never let me say no. It always had to be yes. He even came to me on the night of my thirteenth birthday, said he wanted to give me a birthday present, something special just from him. It was the first of many birthdays. I was hoping for a break that night, but after the first slap across my mouth for asking, I knew there was no use trying to stop it. So I pretended he was Sammy from my gym class. Sammy was the cutest boy in the school. But he didn’t notice me. He hardly even said hello sometimes. Sammy had all the girls chasing after him. But I wouldn’t chase him. I just watched him from a distance, hoping that one day he would see me. I saw him though. I saw him almost every time my daddy came in to be with me. I saw Sammy touching me and making me feel good. Sammy was a good lover, best there ever was. But some days, Sammy didn’t show up. And I was alone, alone in my mind with my daddy and his heavy breathing and pumping. He pumped me like I wasn’t a person, like I wasn’t there, like I was just something for him to get off on, like a blow up doll. I wished every night that someone would stick a pin in me, deflate me so he couldn’t touch me no more, so he couldn’t reach me in the places I tried to hide.
Saturday, December 09, 2006
A Pocono Christmas at the Sherman 12-09-06
Our Good Friends at The Sherman Theatre in Stroudsburg, PA hosted “A Pocono Christmas” as presented by The Pocono Community Church in Mt. Pocono, PA featuring Gospel singers Alvin Slaughter and Our Good Friend Nadeen Edwards. It was a lively and spiritual evening to help bring the community together for the holiday season. Our Good Friends Richard Berkowitz and Cheryl Yost (both of The Sherman Theatre) was there along with Our Good Friends Arline M. Smeltz Lisa Newberry. The Sherman Theatre’s next show will be The PA Rep Company production of Tiny Tim‘s Christmas Carol December 14th - 16th. Please contact Our Good Friends at The Sherman Theatre at 570-420-2808 for more information. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society Music OND 06 Gallery at 360.yahoo.com/pauladam.
Enchanting Evening 12-09-06
Our Good Friends at The School of Visual and Performing Arts (SVPA) in Stroudsburg, PA held their Annual Night of Art, Song, and Spirit featuring a Pulse with Our Good Friends Anita Bondi and Stan Stewart, Visual Art by Our Good Friends at Art Amalgamation (as represented by Our Good Friends Sean Turrell and C. M. Foggio), and Belly dancing by our New Friends at Healing Belly Dance who are also selling calendars for 2007 featuring photographs of their members to raise funds to support endeavors relating to the curing of breast cancer. It was an enjoyable evening filled with many delights. Please contact Our Good Friends at Art Amalgamation at 561-251-6992 Healing Belly Dance at 570-646-7351 for more information. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society Visual Arts OND 06 and Dance Galleries at 360.yahoo.com/pauladam.
Thursday, December 07, 2006
New Art At ESU 12-06-06
Our Good Friends at The East Stroudsburg University (ESU) in East Stroudsburg, PA held an art exhibition in the Madelon Powers Gallery of The Fine and Performing Arts Building featuring the new works of Professor Herb Weigand. The exhibition continues until December 8th. Please feel free to explore Our Good Friends’ Website at www2.esu.edu or The Forwardian Arts Society comprehensive Online Calendar at www.geocities.com/pauladam/The-Forwardian-Arts-Society-Calendar.html for upcoming art related events. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society Visual Arts OND 06 Gallery at 360.yahoo.com/pauladam.
Messiah Comes to ESU 12-06-06
Our Good Friends at The East Stroudsburg University (ESU) in East Stroudsburg, PA held their Annual Holiday Choral Concert in the Cecilia Cohen Recital Hall of The Fine and Performing Arts Building featuring Handel’s “Messiah.” The choir included members of the community along with numerous students who combined their voices with an orchestra to create an enchanting evening enjoyed by all who attended. Our Good Friends Arline M. Smeltz and Anna Busteed were among those who were part of the performance while Our Good Friends Gary Lambert and Helen Heeren were part of an appreciative audience. Please feel free to explore Our Good Friends’ Website at www2.esu.edu or The Forwardian Arts Society comprehensive Online Calendar at www.geocities.com/pauladam/The-Forwardian-Arts-Society-Calendar.html for upcoming art related events. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society Music OND 06 Gallery at 360.yahoo.com/pauladam.
Monday, December 04, 2006
LVC Christmas 12-03-06
Our Good Friends at The Lebanon Valley College in Annville, PA presented their annual Christmas service of scripture readings and musical selection entitled, “Christmas in the Valley.” It was a delightful service to usher in the holiday season with meaningful renditions of the scripture and a wonderful blend of voices in the choir. Our Good Friends Thomas Busteed (who participated in the organ and choral presentations), Anna, Donald, and Rose Busteed attended along with Our Good Friend Arline M. Smeltz. Please explore Our Good Friends at The Lebanon Valley College Website at www.lvc.edu for more information. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society Music OND 2006 Gallery.
A Seasonal Dutot 12-03-06
Our Good Friends at The Antoine Dutot Museum and Gallery in Delaware Water Gap, PA held their annual holiday sale. There were many delightful items to choose from as those who attended event sought presents to buy for the upcoming season. Numerous works were presented by Our Good Friends Mary Ann Kirchhoff, Ursula Pooley, Jim Smeltz, Pia Somerlock, and Willow of the Wisp Dolls while Our Good Friend Arline M. Smeltz was among the attendees. The exhibition and sale continues December 8th - 10th. Please contact Our Good Friends at The Antoine Dutot Museum and Gallery at 570-476-4240 for more information. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society Visual Arts OND 06 Gallery at 360.yahoo.com/pauladam.
Folksy Sherman 12-02-06
Our Good Friends at The Sherman Theatre in Stroudsburg, PA presented Schooner Fare to benefit the United Way. It was a nice evening filled with folk music and introductory tales of each song. Our Good Friends Richard Berkowitz and Cheryl Yost (both of The Sherman Theatre) was there along with Our Good Friends Arline M. Smeltz, Gary Lambert and Our New Friend Fran Henry. The Sherman Theatre’s next show will be Houston Calls on Friday December 8th. Please contact Our Good Friends at The Sherman Theatre at 570-420-2808 for more information. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society Music OND 06 Gallery at 360.yahoo.com/pauladam.
An Amalgamation for the Holidays 12-02-06
Our Good Friends at Art Amalgamation held an exhibit of their works at Our Good Friends at Gallery 554 located within The Visual and Performing Arts Center in Stroudsburg, PA. Our Good Friends Sean Turrell and C. M. Foggio both of Art Amalgamation were there to guide those who visited through the adventures presented in their work along with the works of Our Good Friends Ed Chesnovitch, Keely McCool, and Jamie Reed. Our Good Friend Arline M. Smeltz was among the many who attended the event. There was to be a dance presentation along with other entertaining events on the program, but I was unable to experience it. However, I did get to meet some really great people who stayed for the show. The exhibition and sale continues until December 31st. Please contact Our Good Friends at Art Amalgamation at 561-251-6992 for more information. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society Visual Arts OND 06 Gallery at 360.yahoo.com/pauladam.
Holiday Arts 12-02-06
Our Good Friends at The Artspace Gallery in Stroudsburg, PA held their Holiday show featuring the works of numerous artists from Our Good Friends at The Pocono Arts Council and Artspace membership. It was a pleasure to see all the colorful pieces offered for sale during the holiday season. Our Good Friends Jean Benfante, Will Daskal, Linda Mann, Jiavanna Skolnik, and Helen Heeren along with Our New Friend Lenore Fiore-Mills where among the featured artists while Our Good Friends Arline M. Smeltz and James Lansing along with Greg and Hong Waltzer were among the many who attended. The exhibition continues until December 31st. Please contact Our Good Friends at The Artspace at 570-476-4460 for more information. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society Visual Arts OND 06 Gallery at 360.yahoo.com/pauladam.
A Smaller World 12-02-06
Our Good Friends at Gallery 705 in Stroudsburg, PA held an Opening Reception for their It’s a Small World Show featuring small pieces from artists from numerous countries. It was a wonderfully delightful affair in a very homey and welcoming environment. Our Good Friend Spencer Reed and his daughter were among the many who shared the beauty of the work. The exhibition continues until January 28th. Please contact Our Good Friends at Gallery 705 at 570-421-0833 for more information. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society Visual Arts OND 06 Gallery at 360.yahoo.com/pauladam.
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