Clueless In Allentown

The other day in letter to the editor, a self-confessed "ardent booster" of downtown Allentown, was "astonished" that Freeman's would close its Hamilton Street location in the middle of all the "positive activity." Ignoring the reality that the store had more chance of being robbed than selling anything, the cheerleader cited a planned charter school moving into a vacant office building. Will their students buy high end jewelry? The "renaissance" includes The Cosmopolitan restaurant on 6th Street. Not often has a building foundation been so elegantly named and subsidized. Included on his list of proposed construction is Nic Zawarski's project at the former Schoen Furniture site on Hamilton Street. I hope Nic first finishes the townhouses he suspended on 8th Street. Lastly, this believer cited the pending sale of the Americus Hotel, the real reason for this posting. From time to time, it has been necessary for me to say things to which almost everybody flinches. Unfortunately, for all of us, I have been usually correct. (all the time, but that sounds too arrogant) My fear is that down the road, the Americus operated by Mendleson. may turn out being less problematic for Allentown than under new ownership. Here's why; By every measure the building is an enormous white elephant. Under Satan (nobody has ever been more vilified than Mendleson) two long term established businesses contributed to downtown, Kerrigan Shoe Service and Minnich Jewelers. He keep the building open renting out only about six apartments. He paid the taxes, always two years late at the sheriff sale, but he paid the taxes. Under the new buyer, we will bestow endless grants and KOZ status. There will be no taxes for many years, if ever. We will never regain merchants of the caliber we lost. (Pawlowski chased them out to turn off the electricity, which has stayed on anyway). All this is the good news, here's the bad; the building will be turned into 100 low income apartments, ensuring there will never again be a clientele on Hamilton Street which could afford jewelry at a store like Freeman's. Mr. letter to the editor, perhaps the owner of Freeman's reached a different conclusion about these projects leading to a "renaissance."

UPDATE: I do not mean to imply the building will be designated low income, rather this is the demographic which the finished project will attract. 100 units is a guesstimate, assuming the first several floors will be commercial

UPDATE 2: According to The Morning Call, Mendleson has concocted another buyer to negate Allentown's petition to the bankruptcy judge. Pawlowski's buyer is a local apartment operator, who would have paid $750,000 to the city through the sheriff tax sale procedure.

The Second Tenant

As both a property manager and a political activist, I know Allentown needs less housing, not more, to upgrade itself out of its current problems. I have opposed the mass conversion of commercial space into loft apartments, and the building of new townhouses on former parking lots. The apologists for this administration, both amateur and professional, dismissed my perspective as nay-saying, claiming a middle-class will relocate to these urban experiments. Experience has taught me that the first tenant doesn't matter, who will be the second and third tenant? Will that new apartment soon be occupied by another young unwed mother on a buffet of entitlements. Several years ago the residents around St. Pauls Church, at 8th and Walnut, objected to losing the neighborhood parking lots for a Nic Zawarski Townhouse project. Pawlowski and The Parking Authority bestowed the parking lots, high hopes and KOZ status on the new townhouses. Those completed and unsold are now being offered for rent.* Although the apologists explained how the units were built for childless well heeled buyers, under the reality of federal rental discrimination laws, the Allentown School System better buy a few more desks.

*http://www.niczhomes.com/rental-properties/rental-communities.php

No Past, No Future

Yesterday, I went to the local history room at the public library to continue my research on Mt. Sinai, the old Jewish section of Fairview Cemetery. Sometimes you get lucky, sharing the room with me was Frank Whelan, Allentown's history expert. Many of you may remember Ask Frank, his column at The Morning Call. I found nothing in the card catalog on either Mt. Sinai or Fairview. On a hunch I asked Frank, a Christian, if he knew anything about the obscure Jewish Mt. Sinai; I hit the jackpot. Unfortunately, Allentown is not as lucky. Frank has been laid off from his position at the Lehigh Valley Heritage Museum, operated by the Lehigh County Historical Society. Their director, Joseph Garrera, although an expert on Lincoln, is not even from this area. It seems that the local historical society, with a half dozen or so paid positions, chose to dismiss the only local expert on the staff to save a few bucks. Frank's salary was nominal, I'm sure it costs more to feed the penguins at the zoo. Allentown is changing quickly in every way. It is not enough for the Museum to save the local artifacts, while it discards the local resources.

Allentown Crime Down

According to statistics released by the State Police, crime rates have decreased in Allentown. If this makes you feel safer, please stop reading this blog now, because you are a moron. However, there are other local blogs you may well enjoy, among others, I suggest Allentown Good News or Lehigh Valley Somebody. If your interested in seeing a powerpoint presentation of the actual statistics and charts, attend an upcoming campaign meeting with Mayor Pawlowski. Many of his presentations can be seen at suburban churches, comfortably away from the "safety" of Allentown. Although this report may be of little consolation to the 85 year old west Allentown woman, recently punched three times in the face in her own garage, these numbers are music for those who design election brochures. This city has degenerated into the frightening realm of home invasions, what can it matter that vehicle thefts have decreased from 553 to 492?

Photo, courtesy of William Weber from the Herman L. Weber Collection

Exclusive Interview with Pawlowski

Bill and Angie Villa have just announced that they have arranged an exclusive interview with Mayor Pawlowski. They will accept questions the public wishes to ask the mayor. Here's a few questions; Does the mayor have any hesitation about being interviewed by a couple who are routinely dishonest about what they and others say? Does he object to the Villa's assuming other people's identity on their and other people's blogs? Is he bothered by the fact that the Villa's continually attack the integrity of the District Attorney and the Editor of The Morning Call? Does he mind that the Villa's submitted a member of Allentown City Council and a Northampton County District Justice to insults?

Weed and Seedy

In the 2005 Mayoral Campaign, as I listened to Edwin Pawlowski elaborate on how he would energize the local Weed and Seed initiative, although he never mentioned involuntary home inspections, I called it a crab grass program. Apparently I was wrong, it may well be a crass grab program. Today I interacted with the National Weed and Seed headquarters, they are not familiar with any mandatory homeowner participation, which is exactly what Allentown's systematic inspections constitute. I call upon Phyllis Alexander, Coordinator for Allentown's Weed and Seed, to explain this unique interpretation of a national program and justify the imposition upon our homeowners.

In Jarrett Renshaw We Trust?

So far I'm impressed with Renshaw's (Morning Call reporter) coverage of Mayor Pawlowski. Assuming he will cover the election, which will be slightly longer than the recent shelf life of city beat reporter, I'm hopeful for fair coverage. The coverage in the 2005 election was not fair. Although I do have an axe to grind with the reporter at that time, Daryl Nerl, I think my assertion is not unwarranted. Pawlowski for that election hired Bob Whittman, Nerl's former city beat partner, as his press secretary. Pawlowski's Republican opponent, former Mayor William Heydt, struggled for equal coverage. My campaign was ignored and suppressed. Nerl confessed to me he thought my idea's would resonate with the public, but he refused to print them. On the other hand, Whittman handed Nerl ready to publish stories. For this election Pawlowski had hired former Morning Call reporter Joe McDermott. Let us hope that McDermott has less clout with Renshaw.

Two Robberies

In addition to the FirstTrust Bank at 7th and Hamilton being robbed Monday, the citizens and taxpayers of Allentown have been robbed of a realistic business plan for Hamilton Street. On Monday, close to noon, the bank robber actually walked down an empty Hamilton Street after robbing the center square bank. Had the Lanta bus stop, across the street, still been in operation, there would have been far too many witnesses for such boldness. Of course had the bus stop still been there, Rite-Aid Drugs, Hamilton Perk and MishMash Boutique would also still be open. Mayor Pawlowski again today illustrated his lack of business comprehension by stating he would look for grants to reopen the upscale Freeman Jewelers. Pawlowski, the suburban customers you want aren't coming, and you chased away the ones that were there! In the last decade a dynamic Hispanic business community developed on 7th Street without the city planning and $millions$ we wasted on Hamilton. These emerging proprietors match their service with the existing clientele. Recently an urban manager, Pete Lewnes, has been employed and is appropriately distributing facade grants. His success there, on limited funding, demonstrates how little is needed when reality is one of the criterion.

Photo shows former bus stop, at square, across from bank, after it was closed. Sign directs passengers and customers away from Hamilton Street to the Allentown Transportation Center

State Of Distress

Yesterday, Mayor Ed Pawlowski gave the State of the City Address to the Rotary Club, in essence his kickoff speech for the 2009 November election. By default, I'm one of the existing experts on the difference between what Pawlowski promises, and what he delivers. Daryl Nerl, The Morning Call reporter who covered the 2005 election is no longer with the paper. William Heydt, Pawlowski's main opponent, with the exception of defending his legacy, remains silent. In 2005 I took Pawlowski to task for his penchant for slogans, especially Weed and Seed. Annoyed, he would defend it by saying at least it's a strategy. Yesterday, not surprisingly, Pawlowski didn't concede Weed and Seed wasn't the crime stopper he promised. His new panacea for public safety is Community Policing. Interestingly, he now touts improving customer service in City Hall. There is little mention of his previous plan, as Afflerbach's Community Development Director, of One Stop Service. Despite spending 3 million dollars, that slogan never materialized into a reality. The rental inspection program has moved to the Bridgework Building, and there is less centralization than ever. Although he didn't credit himself, Pawlowski has done an excellent job distributing grants and favors to different constituencies necessary for re-election. According to Jarrett Renshaw, who covered the speech for The Morning Call, apparently nobody snickered when Pawlowski described borrowed money as a budget surplus. Renshaw, new to the city beat, has been doing an excellent job providing a frame of reference for all claims made.

Grooming and Litter

Years ago in downtown Allentown there were about a dozen barbershops and virtually no litter. Today, with the same population, there are about 60 shops and tons of litter. Apparently there is no longer a correlation between nice appearance and good manners. In the past men would wait their turn. Many of the new shops seemingly have an express system. A doorman with a walkie talkie informs the "barber" who is coming, and the patron can receive his service in less than a minute. Over the years I photographed most of the shops now gone. Although I'm sure many of the new proprietors are hardworking honest people who would not tolerate any criminal behavior, the days of taking my camera into barbershops has passed.

photocredit: molovinsky

Pondering Pawlowski

Without a doubt, Pawlowski is the most political mayor Allentown has ever had. Although even his own controller, Bill Hoffman, stated there is no uncertainty that taxpayers will have to augment shortfalls in the pension funds, Pawlowski says no one knows for sure that the stock market will not sufficiently rebound. Knowing that the investment market has punished the pension funds by almost 50%, there is no question that Pawlowski is being political in this election year; he has proposed no tax increase or cut backs for 2009. Pawlowski, and his finance director Larry Hilliard, have their fingers crossed that the state will provide aid and also allow municipalities to reimburse the pension shortfall over a longer period of time. On another pension issue, I do support his deferred retirement option plan, which would allow experienced officers to qualify for the lucrative pension under the expiring contract, yet continue working. After losing over 80 officers because of Afflerbach's contract, we must try to retain the senior officers. Although this plan will cost the taxpayers an additional premium, it's value for the money, something not often seen recently in Allentown.

Welcome to Allentown

Joanne is a long time caregiver in Easton, but she chose to buy a house in Allentown. It's a house you will not see on a house tour, but she is rightfully proud of it. It's on a busy street, in a poor section of town. Her house, the only one decorated for Christmas, is the gem of the block. This holiday season she was rewarded for her efforts by receiving an inspection notice from the City of Allentown. She knew that in recent past, her house had been bought and sold for double the money, by one of the city's non-profit housing agencies, so all the safety issues had been addressed. She knows it's not a rental, under that inspection program, or up for sale, under that inspection program, so why the inspection? Seems that Mayor Ed started the home sale inspection program at the wrong end of the curve, and we hired more new inspectors than new police. Allentown has rolled out its old "systematic" inspection program for a few lucky sections in center city. You who live in Midway Manor, or the south side, and certainly the west end, need not worry. Worry is what this post is about. Joanne is really upset, she feels this unwarranted inspection is an intrusion upon her privacy and time. She received no consolation from her call to City Hall, on the contrary, she was told about administrative search warrants, and that somebody better open the door at the designed time. Her anxiety resulted in a coworker contacting Bernie O'Hare, who in turn contacted me. Bernie and I will keep you informed about how Allentown treats this woman; so far, not well.

The Greed of Grants

Easton Mayor Sal Panto finally pulled his support of the Riverwalk Project, publicly admitting it was a useless project, yet he still wants to utilize the grant in a new location he deems less useless? Now instead of building a parking garage and Lanta terminal four blocks from the shopping district, he will duplicate Allentown, and build it only one block from the stores. Never mind there is no shortage of parking on Northampton Street, Sal can't stand the idea of losing a grant from the Joint River Bridge Authority. In Allentown we couldn't stand losing a grant from the Federal Transportation Department, never mind it destroyed the viability of the Hamilton Street merchants. Lanta officials and city officials in both cities talked of reducing congestion on the main streets, never mind that there was no congestion. Like a consumer with a coupon for something he doesn't need, our elected officials cannot comprehend that there are grants we would be better off not receiving. Greenwich, Connecticut, a beautiful community north of NYC, has a unusual community development policy; they do not accept HUD grants, not much future for bureaucrats there! The Hispanic business community on Allentown's 7th Street suffered a unnecessary disruption of parking and business this fall, as the city once again dug up the sidewalks to install new wiring for improved street lights, courtesy of a "grant". The merchants are rightfully wondering why the new lights ended up identical to the old ones. When grants are utilized, and at the end of the project there is no benefit, but on the contrary, unintended consequences, what's the point? We have become the victims of over planning, to use unnecessary grants, squandering our money, so our elected officials can blabber about progress.

Urban Safari

Exclusive to molovinskyonallentown; this blogger has learned that along with the golf course concession, the Allentown BrewWorks has received the first franchise to conduct urban safari's in Allentown. The evening excursions will begin and end from the safety of the municipal golf course parking lot, in the deep west end. Although still in the planning stages, sites on the tour will include 9th and Chew, gunfire epicenter of the new Allentown, and a drive-by of Trinkles Cafe. Within the safety of the armored Hummer, guests will visit an actual forensic site, and watch police officers search for shell casings. The guides will tastefully point out probable ladies of the night and merchants of recreational pharmaceuticals. The tour will include stopping in front of the home of an urban pioneer, where actual members of OAPA will wave from behind their windows. With special permission from Lanta, the excursion will drive through the bus yard, showing real passengers waiting on cold steel benches, eating stale donuts. For a VIP tour, actually driven by Mayor Pawlowski himself, contact the special events coordinator at Allentown City Hall or the Allentown BrewWorks. Jarrett Renshaw of The Morning Call did not contribute to this story.

Christmas Trim

BEST WISHES FOR THE HOLIDAY SEASON


photocredit: molovinsky

Golf Course Shenanigans

According to an article by Jarrett Renshaw in today's Morning Call, the long term (more than ten years) operator of the restaurant at the golf course has been out maneuvered by Mayor Pawlowski. Although his bid was identical to the successful bidder, the winner provided better answers to a questionnaire; so much for the concept of respecting an existing tenant and his track record. The new tenant, Allentown Brew Works, also has a track record with the city and taxpayers. Jarrett Renshaw writes, "The awarding of the Brew Works contract continues a long line of public support to the Allentown Brew Works, which has enjoyed more than $4.5 million in local, state and federal loans and grants to renovation and construction. The public support includes more than $90,000 in direct taxpayers support from the city of Allentown for design and facade improvements. In addition, the Allentown restaurant sits in a Keystone Opportunity Zone, which means it's exempt from most state and local taxes until 2011."
The decision was not officially made by Pawlowski, but by his five-person committee of city officials. Rumor of this shenanigan has been circulating town for several weeks.

Nagy Novelty Company

In Downtown Allentown's commercial years, stores extended 3 blocks out from Hamilton Street. The only remaining remnant of that era is the parking meters, which apparently haven't noticed that the stores have been gone now for over 30 years. A magic shop mentioned in the previous post was on 9th Street, between Linden and Turner. On 8th Street, also a couple blocks off Hamilton, was the Nagy Novelty Company. The dictionary defines novelty as a small, often cheap, cleverly made article, usually for amusement. The Nagy's had thousands of them, floor to ceiling. There were little jokes and gags, sometimes risque, passed around parties in the 40's and 50's. When you pulled " Miss Lola, The Snappy Bubble Dancer" leg's out, your finger got snapped. The Nagy's, an ancient father, son and dog, stayed open till around 1980. I was never sure which one was the son. To me, as an aficionado of the old and curious, the store was a shrine. Items which they sold for a few cents, now sell on ebay for many dollars. They manufactured their own greeting cards. Shown here is the front and inside of an embossed card probably dating back to the 1920's.

Ring 32

When I was growing up in the mid-50's, stage magic was still popular. Famous magicians of the day would occasionally appear at the Lyric Theater (Symphony Hall). Local magicians were popular for entertainment at parties. Allentown always had at least one magic shop, back then Bierley's on N. 9th St. was the local favorite. The valley chapter of the International Brotherhood of Magicians, Ring 32, dates back to the early 1930's. The Brotherhood now numbers over 300 chapters worldwide. Up till about 15 years ago, the local chapter would have a show and dealer convention each year in May. As special effects in movies and television evolved, the wonder of performing illusions, and it's popularity diminished; For a while, until Las Vegas once again put magic center stage. I've always been in awe of the performer posters from the early 1920's, lithography at it's best. They were meant to be exotic, to mystify, to be magic.

Weber, the Wizard

During the vaudeville heyday of stage magic, star magicians such as Thurston and Blackstone, while performing at the Lyric Theatre(Symphony Hall), could be found staying and visiting at the Weber household in Allentown. Herman L. Weber, a contemporary and friend of Houdini, was known as Namreh, the Magician and also as Weber, the Wizard. Twice, during 1930's and 40's, he traveled coast to coast with his traveling magic show. Allentown has a rich tradition of magic and a long standing chapter of the International Brotherhood of Magicians.

Villa Ahead of O'Hare

Bill Villa brays this morning that for the first time his blog is rated higher than Bernie O'Hare's in the BlogNet Ratings. Bill's accomplishment was achieved by posting over two hundred off topic insulting comments himself, on his wife's post concerning women's rights. Congratulations Bill Villa, you are remarkable!

Photo Information: This is a promotional postcard from the 1940's for the traveling vaudeville magic act by Allentown magician Herman Weber. Courtesy of the Bill Weber Collection.

Harassment Case Postponed

The case involving harassment charges brought against Bill Villa by Bernard O'Hare has been postponed. After Villa questioned the impartiality of the District Justice, the case will be reassigned. Villa has also questioned the impartiality of the District Attorney, in both counties of Lehigh Valley. This blogger has learned that Villa will accept the Judge shown in the photo, who has a reputation of disliking heavy set people who drive red jeeps.

I Got Snookered

Last month I received a phone call from the alumni office of my alma mater. A pleasant sounding woman asked if I would contribute the same amount I gave last year. I asked how much that was, and she replied $25.00. I said OK, and hung up. It occurred to me that I got snookered. Although they have been writing and calling twice a year for 40 years, I didn't recall ever making a contribution. On the contrary, it often occurred to me that they should give me a refund, or at least not admit I graduated. Having said I would donate, I sent off a check. Now I know I got snookered. Since that time I have received two phone calls and three letters. I am now an member of their esteemed philanthropy society, and started receiving the designed special newsletter. I think they finally taught me something, why people donate anonymously.

76 trombones

Congratulations to Angie Villa (Mrs. Dottie) for championing women's rights on her blog, Lehigh Valley Somebody. As Sasha Curvaceaux so amply put it, " And thanks Mrs. Dottie for covering Womens' Rights Issues! So many other local bloggers just grind their own agenda axes incessantly (BORE-ing!)". What Sasha didn't know then, in the fourth comment, was that comments 7 through 110 would be the Villa's grinding their own agenda axe. Using Sasha, and their whole cast of made up commentators, they attack, antagonize and provoke their growing enemy list in an unbelievable, egoistical, pathological display of aggression.

Ozzie and Harriet

The current census data on Allentown shows that the idyllic 50's is long gone by almost every measure.* Nearly 60% of mothers are unwed, and a quarter of them do not live in the same apartment for even a year. This year as the recession gets deeper, there are many thousands of children with young, poor mothers, not in a position to buy presents. Over 2,600 of them have applied to the Salvation Army for assistance this holiday season. While demand is up 18%, donations have decreased 50%. Those of us, in a more fortunate position, should consider donating to Toys for Tots or dropping a few dollars in the Salvation Army Kettle.

* http://blogs.mcall.com/allentown/

artwork: Family by Jessica Lenard, mixed media on canvas, 50" x 66"

New Angle On Bill White

Today's Opinion Page at The Morning Call, has Ron Angle firing back at Bill White's blog, which criticized Angle for always being against something. Ron takes Bill to task for eating too much chili and his attacks on Emma Tropiano. Both these points have some merit. Bill White has at least four annual themes which dominate his column; food at Musikfest, food contests during the fair, hall of shame and Christmas lights. I made a similar complaint about his blog, being pre-occupied with movies. To his credit he answered my comment, citing his blog as a recreational retreat from the more serious newspaper column; not according to Ron Angle! In fairness to Mr. White, both his column and blog are apparently what both his readers and employer want to read. To curmudgeons like me and Ron Angle, if what you write doesn't annoy most people, you're just a purveyor of fluff. Now to Emma, for a guy like me who doesn't like to shave two days in a roll, and thinks a tie and sports coat should not be worn at the same time, she was the real deal. She never gave a power-point presentation or cited a grant funded study, but she told it like it is, and had practical solutions to real problems. I cannot comment on White's assessment of Angle, I don't follow Northampton politics, but anybody who defends Emma is OK with me.

Rose Colored Glasses

Before I became the politically correct blogger you read here, I had a darker site known as www.molovinskyformayor.com
I still keep that site up for those who prefer not to wear rose colored glasses. At the bottom of it's home page there are several links; Problem of the Month, Insights and New Approaches (also campaign 2005). I no longer add to the site, but think of it as a internet archive. (At the bottom of this page there is a hyperlink to the site) Essentially, it outlines undesirable consequences of good intentions. Last week Alan Jennings announced that KNBT and PPL have contributed 1.5 million dollars to be doled out by a newly formed Alliance of Grantmasters. I suppose that will require another director of handouts. The parent banks and electrical utility know Alan well. Nobody is better at bending their arm than him. How many branches will you open up in center city? How many months of free electric will you provide before pulling the meter?

School Board Does Homework

I give the Allentown School Board an A for electing Bob Smith Jr. as their new president.* Bob served on the board since 2003 and is also head of the Allentown Republican Committee. Allentown has been blessed over the years by the dedication of numerous citizens. Many of them never seek or achieve high profile positions, but clearly are the workhorses from which we all benefit. In addition to serving the interests of his east side neighborhood, Bob attends most City Council meetings. There is no position for which he would not receive my support.

* http://www.mcall.com/news/local/all-b9-5asd.6697620dec07,0,2095825.story

WaterWar

Long ago a once prosperous city had a huge water demand to meet the need of its various industries. These industries varied from basic goods first designed in the 1800's, to high tech inventions servicing the world. Today, a minor league baseball stadium occupies the space that was needed for parking by thousands of workers making the first transistors; and then the first silicon chips needed for the electronic revolution. The production of these chips required millions of gallons of clean water, and Allentown met that demand. Today the industry is gone, and we are led by people with no memory of that era, or even why the water capacity was created. Although the industrial demand for water never returned, the growth of the surrounding municipalities has created a need for our over-capacity. For the last two years, the City and County have squabbled over who would pay for a pumping station. With the county threatening to drill additional well's and avoid buying more water from Allentown, the two jurisdictions seem to have finally overcome their differences. Allentown City Council has declined, at this point, to approve a request by the Administration for a water rate increase. Allentown taxpayers should not have to pay more for something we already have too much of.

City Hall Bloat

City Council prevailed on Allentown Mayor Ed Pawlowski to hire four more police officers than the four submitted in his proposed 2009 budget. According to freelance reporter Sarah Fulton, Jeanette Eichenwald convinced the Mayor this increase was warranted. We in the local blogosphere know Michael Donovan also supported the additional manpower. Considering how many officers may retire this year to benefit themselves by the infamous "PensionGate", a true wild card, will we really reach a force of 214? Considering Pawlowski gave a press conference last spring saying he would concentrate on public safety, why didn't the proposed budget include at least eight more officers? Although City Council questioned the necessity of the Mayor's professional service fund, they have yet to question all the additional administrative positions added by this mayor.

A Blogger and Historian

The third time I came across the same site,
searching three different subjects; Bethlehem Steel, my mother's maiden name and the Fairview Cemetery, I realized Mr. Berghold was a remarkable person. A couple years ago he quickly returned my inquiry concerning Hungarian Jews during the war. Jerry Berghold was born here in Allentown in 1930, and passed away this past August in Virginia. You can enter his many enduring websites from this address;
http://www.burgenland-bunch.org/homepage.htm

UPDATE: The Burgenland refers to Eastern Austria and Western Hungary. Although Mr. Berghold started as a genealogist researching the multi-ethnic heritage of the immigrants to our area from that region, he became a humanist who grew a few emails into a worldwide, 1500 member interaction.

Merry Pawlowski

Last night, as I went to sleep concerned about the impropriety of The Morning Call featuring Pawlowski's picture on the city map, little did I know I would awake to another full page picture of the mayor on the cover of the Entertainment Section. It's time for me to get with the program. I wish you a Happy Pawlowski Day, and next month, when it beginning to look a lot like Pawlowski, may you have a Merry Pawlowski and Happy Pawlowski Year!

2009 Municipal Election

Today I received what I thought to be the first political brochure of the 2009 Mayoral campaign. Upon closer inspection, I discovered that it was actually the municipal directory and map, sent to every property owner of record. Taxpayers received such a directory in 2005, but in that version, then Mayor Afflerbach limited himself to his name only, in small print. I have included a photo of the 2005 directory for

comparison. A disclaimer appears in small print near Pawlowski's huge photograph, "No tax payer funds were expended in the printing of this document". The combination campaign promotion/ city map was published by the Morning Call.

Easton Mayor a Retread

Easton is obsessed with the used hubcap business near Rt. 22, they should worry about the retread they elected for mayor. Sal Panto insists on supporting an unnecessary parking garage, in a flood plain, that will hurt the merchants of Easton by relocating the bus riders away from Center Square and Northampton Street. According to an article in the Morning Call by Michael Duck, he blew off critics for a second time by canceling a scheduled meeting. I drove to Easton and checked out the location of the proposed transportation hub. Without a doubt, the Easton location will be even more disastrous to their center-city merchants than the hub in Allentown. While Lanta serves the suburban malls with transfer bus stops, these remote parking garage/Lanta Terminals delete the center cities of foot traffic. Lanta doesn't care, Panto doesn't learn.

New Police Contract

Most premium pensions, such as public school teacher, are based upon 35 years of service and yield the retiree about 70 percent of their ending salary. The expiring police contract allowed officers to buy their military time, go out with 16 years and base their retirement upon their last 30 days, including overtime. As a citizen and candidate, I attended the contract hearings in 2005 and spoke with FOP officers. They estimated probably about 12 officers would retire under Afflerbachs' plan, no more than 20. I believe about 80 officers have left the force in the last 47 months, with many receiving way over their base pay in retirement. I've been told the most harmful element of that contract, for the taxpayers, was the 30 day clause. Most such contracts are based on the last 3 years, or at the very least, the last 90 days. The new contract STILL HAS THE 30 DAY CLAUSE, but with a cap of 10% above base. Regardless of any projections, the taxpayers must assume a large part of the existing force will retire with a pension of 110% of their base salary. New officers hired after Jan. 1, will conform to state standards in pension, and the 20 year rule without buyout has been reinstated. The administration will allow existing officers between now and the end of the current contract, Dec.31, to qualify for the no cap pension and still remain working until they decide to actually stop working. Would you continue working if you could retire and receive more? These observations are based upon a report in today's Morning Call by Jarrett Renshaw.

UPDATE: Scott Kraus, on the Morning Call's Queen City Blog, suggests that the last time City Council interfered with the police contract the result was a disaster. I agree about that result, but never the less, Council must always be willing to intercede if necessary, to protect the interest of the taxpayers.

They Don't Understand?

Every year the Realtors get a few phone calls from New York and New Jersey, their buyers don't understand why the investments aren't yielding the results they expected, or worse. Their frame of reference is New York, where a one bedroom apartment rents for $3200. Where they come from, it costs about 900 thousand to buy a one apartment unit. They don't understand, although it is only 90 miles and an hour and a half from Manhattan, it's a different world. The think if they give their tenants pre-addressed envelopes, the checks will come in the mail. They think if they convert a commercial building into lofts, yuppies will park their beamers outside, downtown. The Dime Bank Building, on 7th, off of Hamilton is going to be converted into upscale apartments; Expect to see Mayor Ed and his portable podium soon. The real estate market in NYC is recession proof. Here, the local builders know all about down markets. Shown in the photo, is what was to be the second phrase of the townhouses at 8th and Walnut. Despite tax free status from the Keystone Opportunity Zone, the builder has filled in the foundations and discontinued the project.

Growth Industry in Allentown

Yesterday I went to the Social Security Office, across from the prison, to discuss my retirement options. I was given number 199. In addition to retirement, Social Security also dispenses money for disability. I would say from the gray hair, there were
about three of us contemplating retirement, all the others were for disability. A few middle age men were carrying their fake canes. The canes aren't fake, it's the disabilities. I saw one such gentleman walk in from the parking lot, clearly the cane bore no weight, and was merely a prop. Most of the people waiting were quite young, in their twenties. Disability has been expanded to include mental conditions such as depression, anxiety, additive personality and anger management. I will say many of them did look angry to me. It was hard finding a parking space. Business also looked good at the prison. If Johnny Manana's had gotten these crowds....

School's Out

Many years ago, Lehigh Valley Child Care brought together a group of teachers and educators, to provide the inter-city children of Easton a special program for the summer. We called the program School's Out, it was centered in the YMCA. Activities included, but were not limited to, photography, drama, art, nature study and athletic instruction. The kids could learn basketball at the Wolfe School gym, how to build a set for a play, or how to swim the butterfly stroke in the Delaware. Although the experience may be lost in their memory, I know that fifty kids had a summer of both fun and learning.

Photocredit: molovinsky

Morning Call Pimps Brew Works

The Morning Call blog, Queen City Daily, which only does about one post a week, is promoting real estate for the Brew Works*. I have to pay to advertise real estate, and pay dearly. The available space at the Brew Works is completely overhauled and upgraded. The reporter failed to mention the Brew Works received between five and seven million dollars in taxpayer grants** to pay for those improvements. I have to improve my property through savings and bank loans. The space at the Brew Works is being promoted by the Lehigh Valley Economic Development Corporation. I have to stand outside in the dark, waiting for prospective tenants to show up at my property. The reporter who wrote this piece for the Morning Call is well intentioned, he is just not cognitive of the inequalities our politicians have inflicted upon the marketplace. Here's some questions I would ask; Who owns the Brew Work Building? Who would receive the income from either the rental or sale of the upper floors? Has the building been legally subdivided? Who decides which owners benefit from the LVEDC promotions?

* http://blogs.mcall.com/allentown/2008/11/for-sale-or-ren.html

** There has been a smorgasbord of subsidies bestowed upon this project. Relief from taxes under the KOZ, some are outright grants, such as facade, others are HUD loans, which can be forgiven. There has also been unique considerations from the Parking Authority and other promotions funded by taxpayers.

No Christmas For Merchants

The Klan would be proud of the disrespect being shown the Asian merchants of Hamilton Street. Last year, right before Christmas, all the foot traffic created from the bus transfer stops was eliminated. This year for Christmas, Allentown is finally enforcing a fourteen year old amendment concerning security gates. The merchants have been given 90 days to change out their gates from solid to mesh. They have been told, that although many of the gates have been installed since 1994 with approved permits, no solid gates will be grandfathered. They have been also told that appeals will prove to be useless, and frowned upon. The new gates are costing anywhere between two to seven thousand dollars each depending upon width. Imagine being told in November of 2008, that your gate installed by permit in 2000, is out of compliance with an amendment passed November 4, 1994. Please click and enlarge the above document to see how it feels to be a Coolie in Allentown. Word on the street is that this idea came from the Fegleys of the Brew Work, via a "Vision Committee". Once again Pawlowski forsakes long-term taxpayers and reality, to cater to grant recipients and an imaginary gentrification.

UPDATE: An officer in the code department was kind enough to answer a few questions from me. He stated that from a safety viewpoint concerning fire, and the buildings are all adjoined, the solid gates prevented fires from being seen. This seems to be a valid point. As often the case, , my issues are with Executive decisions, not those officials responsible for carrying out the mandates.

UPDATE 2: Isn't it interesting that Johnny's Manana's, as a startup business in a brand new building, was given a facade grant for 50k, while these merchants, who have been here for many years, were not offered any help to pay for these gates in front of their buildings.

Hamilton Without Lanta

It has been about a year since Allentown and Lanta ended their historic covenant with the merchants, and the result has been a disaster. The 700 block of Hamilton, although not glamorous, was viable. Years ago there was an expression; there's many more nickels than quarters. Without the bus traffic, no less than 6 businesses have closed. All the new stores have been subsidized by city grants. Currently on Allentown Good News, a blog sponsored city officials, they're bragging about a women who sells coffee and cookies, and even that required a grant. The bad news, is that the gentrification hoped for, never materialized. Johnny Manana's, despite 50 thousand and a county sponsored liquor license, has locked the doors. Last spring, Mayor Pawlowski said 150 grand left from facade grants, may be spent to support existing restaurants. How much we really put into Manana's may never be known. Mayors will blame the economy for the failures. In ten years, we will hire a consultant for hundreds of thousands, who will recommend restoring bus transfer stations to Hamilton.

artwork by Karoline Schaub-Peeler

Change

Nobody has gotten more out of the word "change", than Obama, since the cash register was invented. Here, on the local blogosphere and newspaper, we are somewhere between cult worship and a new religion. Take for example, an Email I received this morning from Bill Villa concerning my previous posting;

"This one's just between you and me. I just wanted to tell you what a horse's ass you are, posting that dumbo entry about some WW II fighter pilot guy the day after Barack Obama's victory. This is your uniquely Molovinsky self-absorbed way of showing just how insignificant you consider Obama's victory to be. As if anyone cares what you think. You're also sucking up to that "Greatest Generation" (which you missed being a part of by only a few short years) that is lamenting the "America they used to know." Nice pandering. And while we're on the subject of total transparency, if "The Banker" isn't Bernie O'Hare, I'm not Bill Villa."

I print the above Email with some hesitation, because Mr. Villa said the message was between him and me. I suppose because he calls me a horse's ass, and because he deleted, rather than read my reply to him, I need not consider his feelings more than he considers mine. The fighter pilot is my son's step-grandfather, and has always shown much consideration toward him. Had McCain won, would any post on any other subject be considered disrespectful? In Obama's speech Tuesday night, he expressed respect for McCain and his supporters. I wonder if that toleration will be practiced by his supporters; that would be a change.

An American Hero

This painting, by aviation artist Mark Postlethwaite, based on World War 2 illustrates an actual air battle; Focke Wulf Fw 190D-9 of 14/JG26 flown by Ofw. Werner Zech is intercepted by a P-51 Mustang of the 339th FG flown by Captain Francis R. Gerard, 18th March 1945. Frank Gerard was one of our flying aces, shooting down four enemy aircraft from his Mustang in one battle over Leipzig, Germany. The retired Major General passed away this week and will be buried tomorrow with full military honors.

Pawlowski's Halloween

For the second time in one month, there was a fatal shooting in front of young children. Last night's crime happen during the trick and treat hours, creating a real life horror for kids being robbed of an Allentown tradition. The shooting on 9TH St., under a flashing blue surveillance camera and a near a identified landlord of shame, appeared on the local news page of the Morning Call. Above the slaying article, columnist Bill White praises the Pawlowski initiative against landlords. Allentown should not be so conditioned to murder and violence, that it has become B section news. We should not tolerate an administration which blames its inability to deal with crime on tavern owners and landlords. You don't have to be a brain surgeon....

The Press and Allentown

Today's editorial in The Morning Call, supporting Pawlowski's Hall of Shame, is inexplicable. Simply put, the program ignores a system of ordinances and legal remedies, and resorts to ridicule, not unlike the stockade in Puritan New England. The first inductees were certainly soft targets, young brothers from New Jersey. Are their records and violations any worse than several well known local landlords, not at all. Not that many years ago, the newspaper survived a hugh slander lawsuit involving another targeted "slumlord". To this day, whenever using his name, reporters must first get clearance from their editors, who in turn consult with their legal department. I find it curious that the paper would again go down this road, but what's really amazing is that every proposal ever made by this mayor, has been endorsed on the Editorial Page.

Allentown Post Office 1934

In the 1930's, the "New Deal" was good to Allentown. As I noted on earlier posts, our park system was enriched by monumental stone construction under the WPA. We also received one of the architectural gems of our area, the magnificent art deco post office. Constructed during 1933-34, no detail was spared in making the lobby an ageless classic. The floor is adorned with handmade Mercer tiles from Doylestown. Muralist Gifford Reynolds Beal worked thru 1939 portraying the Valley's cultural and industrial history. This incredible 74 year old photograph is the contractor's documentation of the project's progress. The back of the photo states; Taken Sept 1 - 34 showing lobby, floor, screens, desks, completed & fixtures hung

Historic Opportunity

During the Republican National Convention, I was struck by the comments of several young black delegates; btw, black republicans, as with gay republicans, do not require a large convention center when they meet. Back to the point, these three young republicans all stated they would be voting for Obama come November. They clearly pointed out as blacks, Obama's chance of becoming President, was too hugh of an historic opportunity for them not to support. I was also struck by the terms Colin Powell used to justify his endorsement of Obama; transformational and generational. They seem odd words for an experienced soldier and diplomat. Although I would not hesitate to vote for Colin Powell or even Condoleezza Rice, I will not vote for a inexperienced freshman senator, who has not demonstrated any comprehension of world issues or even the economic principles of capitalism, upon which this country has thrived. Perhaps in time, Obama can mature into a viable candidate, not just an historic opportunity.

Hall of Shame

Today's Morning Call features a hugh photograph of city code enforcers hanging a large sign identifying the owner of a building with code violations. The offender, Adam Thor, is Allentown's first inductee in the Allentown Landlord Hall of Shame, which is also being featured on the city website. Mr. Thor owns two buildings in the 300 block of 9th Street. Interestingly, about one year ago, an article identified this block as targeted by the Redevelopment Authority for multiple acquisitions and de-conversions. I bet Mr. Thor is ready to negotiate now! Unless Mr. Thor is the person who shot the driver on 7th Street earlier this week in front of the victim's children, he is just a scapegoat and distraction for Pawlowski's inability to deal with Allentown's real problems.

Morning Call Missed Story

Clearly, one of the national lead stories yesterday was the fraudulent voter registrations by the Acorn Organization, publicly pro Obama. The media has been hyping Barack for a year, repeatedly citing the new registrations as proof positive of America's enthusiasm for the agent of change. Acorn itself, was harder to find yesterday than a flimflam contractor. Obama himself, had worked for Acorn years ago, and as a candidate paid them 800 thousand dollars to register new voters. Not only did the Morning Call not write one word about this corruption of the basis of our democracy, but it headlined a story meant to downplay the success of the local McCain/Palin rally on Wednesday. At the best, today's paper was old news with a twist, at the worst, it was an attempt at reader manipulation.

Pawlowski Contract Position Understandable

I do not have a problem with Pawlowski hiring professional negotiators for the contract talks with the police union, and not revealing details and costs, here's why; As all can agree, the last negotiation with the police union was a disaster for the taxpayers. The city has hired outside consultants for many mundane reasons, so why not for the most important issue in our city and the biggest item in our budget? If any agent can lower the bottom line in any transaction, it's worth the cost. If you believe pawlowski should have hired outside negotiators or not, since he has, why not wait to see what these pro's can produce? I understand the concept of right to know, and usually support it, but perhaps in this exceptional case, it's better to hold the cards close to the vest.

UPDATE: I have changed the title of this posting, from Pawlowski Police Position Proper to Pawlowski Contract Position Understandable

No Firewater For Indians

If you're a suburbanite being induced to come downtown to drink and eat, chances are your destination was heavily subsidized by Mayor Pawlowski. Take your pick, Allentown Brew Works, or Johnny Manana's, millions were given, including special city approved low cost liquor licenses. If you're a low income white, black or Hispanic, chances are you're a nuisance person drinking in a nuisance bar. On Friday the City of Allentown closed Trinkle's Cafe, 533 Turner St., because a shooting victim walked into the bar for help. There has been a taproom in that location ever since I can remember. My uncle lived in the 400 block many years ago. The current bar owner, Lauren Markowitcz, correctly states she is a victim of the neighborhood*; She is also a victim of the Administration. Rather than confront and deal with policies which continue to make Allentown a poverty and crime magnet, Pawlowski instead installs surveillance camera's, passes gun laws, and denies a livelihood to struggling business owner in a decaying neighborhood. Like the soup nazi in Seinfield, Pawlowski says no grant for Markowitcz.

* http://www.mcall.com/news/local/all-b3_5trinkles.6617869oct06,0,4527803.story