An Open Gathering ala Cheeky

A sizable crowd came to be a part of The Forwardian Arts Society’s first Literary Lovers’ Gathering for 2010 on Thursday May 27th at The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse in Stroudsburg, PA which was followed by an Open Reading led by Joseph T. Landolfa titled, “Just Say It.” The Gathering provided an opportunity for writers and poets to share their work while receiving feedback from their peers and others who love the art of words along with conversation exploring topics to include the creative process, moments of inspiration, and publishing. Those who were “non Writers” with the desire to share something they have read were also welcomed.

While most of the readings were of a poetic nature, the writers who attended also wrote in other forms such as articles, novels, and Children Literature. A variety of styles and topics were explored not only through the writings but in the topics of conversations that abounded. Some did pertain to the art of writing while others delved into areas not readily associated with the art. However, it soon became apparent the topic of the conversations meant little in the light of the enjoyment those participating in the gathering had in just being able to talk to like minded individuals.

The Gathering grew as Joseph T. Landolfa and poets who were a part of the “Just Say It” Open Readings entered the Coffeehouse. Conversations continued and changed as poetry previous un heard that evening moved among the attendees. It was good to experience this outpouring of affection for the art among so many. The evening came to its conclusion with everyone eagerly anticipating its next occurrence. You’ll find more photographs in The Forwardian Arts Society Literary Lovers' Gathering 2010 Gallery at www.myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse offers a variety of coffee, drinks, and culinary treats along with events such as the ones described in this article. The next “Just Say It” Open Reading is presently scheduled to take place Thursday June 3rd and every following Thursday at 7pm while The Forwardian Arts Society’s next Literary Lovers’ Gathering is presently scheduled for Thursday June 24th at 6pm. In addition to these events, Lens Jams is scheduled to perform on Wednesday Evenings beginning at 6pm featuring smooth jazz and rock on acoustic guitars, and Apezilla on Saturdays beginning at 6pm featuring pop and classic rock. Please Contact The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse at 570-420-8222 for more information.

The Forwardian Arts Society is a fellowship for people who love the arts who encourages, supports, and loves the creative community through its promotional and other service orientated endeavors. These include holding Gatherings for those who enjoy a variety of creative disciplines. Future Gatherings will include their Film and Chat Gathering on Friday June 4th at The Pocono Community Theater beginning at 4pm, their Visual Art Lovers‘ Gathering on Sunday June 6th beginning at 3pm at The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse, and their Music Lovers‘ Gathering on Thursday June 17th at 6pm at The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse. Please Contact The Forwardian Arts Society at 570-269-3348 or through their website at www.theforwardianartssociety.com for more information.

Playing with the Lyrical

The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse in Stroudsburg, PA presented an early evening Spoken Word Performance on Sunday May 23rd featuring The Lyrical Playground. Their performance was preceded by an Open Mic Event and the very first recorded Poetry Slam outside of a festival setting to take place in the Monroe County, PA region. This initiation promises to become a regular event at The Cheeky Monkey on a night yet to be determined.

The evening began with a Spoken Word performance by members of Urban Mountain Voices (UMV) who have become well known throughout the area for providing substantive poetry indicative of the style they adhere to. This was followed by an Open Reading in which members of the audience were invited to “Spit” their soul’s words onto an eager audience. Then, after a brief intermission, The Lyrical Playground performed as everyone became astounded by the power of their words which grabbed, slapped, and instilled their urgent meaningfulness into each ear and eternal substance that heard them.

The Lyrical Playground recently received a grant from Usher philanthropic foundation to tour the region and it was fortunate to have Tricia McGarvin-Fernandez (founder of Urban Mountain Voices) to have discover this and to invite them to the area. The evening concluded with a question and answer period followed workshop led by The Lyrical Playground. You’ll find more photographs in The Forwardian Arts Society Cheeky Monkey 2010 Gallery at www.myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

The Lyrical Playground is a group of poets from Philadelphia, PA who formed a non profit organization in 2008 designed to teach young teens the art form of poetry. Urban Mountain Voices (UMV) is based in The Monroe County, PA area (aka the Poconos). The group provides young people an opportunity to express themselves in an open and honest manner through the medium. The group meets every Friday beginning at 4:30pm on the East Stroudsburg University (ESU) of PA Campus and welcomes young people between the ages of 13-20 regardless of their race, gender, sexual orientation, religious affiliation, or academic standing.

The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse offers a variety of coffee, drinks, and culinary treats along with events such as the one described in this article. Future events include The Forwardian Arts Society will hold a Literary Lovers’ Gathering Thursday May 27th beginning at 6pm featuring an opportunity to share some experiences, critique each other‘s work, and gain encouragement from both peers and those who simply enjoy reading and listening to new words, Lens Jams on Wednesday Evenings beginning at 6pm featuring smooth jazz and rock on acoustic guitars, “Just Say It” presently on Thursdays beginning at 7pm featuring an Open Mic Nite hosted by Joe Landolfa offering an opportunity for Poets, Musicians, and Comedians to share their talents, and The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse in Stroudsburg, PA will present Apezilla on Saturdays beginning at 6pm featuring pop and classic rock. Please Contact The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse at 570-420-8222 for more information.

Websites of those mentioned in this article include The Lyrical Playground at www.thelyricalplayground.com, Urban Mountain Voices at www.urbanmountainvoices.org, and The Forwardian Arts Society at www.theforwardianartssociety.com.

The Feminine Artist

The Shawnee Gallery in Shawnee on Delaware, PA held an Artists’ Reception on Saturday May 22nd featuring a variety of works done by women in an exhibition titled, “Native, Creative, Divine! 2010” The work ranged from Paintings in a number of Mediums to Jewelry Creations as well as Sculptured pieces to Weavings and Quilts. The event was a wonderful opportunity to meet the artists and share conversations with them to gain more insight to their work.

These artists included Bev Abel, Rita Baragona, Flavia Bacarella, Jane Blair, Ingrid Blackert, Susan Bradford, Lisa Fedon, Lindsay K. Gates, Leslie Mulliken, Claire Lukas, Beverly Neremberg, Abigail Porter, Penny Ross, Andrea Robbins Rimberg, and Linda Schwartz. Besides being pleasing decorative as interior for the home or accessories to someone’s apparel, each work resonated with each viewer in its own unique way. If one listen to a piece quietly enough, one could hear something meaningful to enhance his or her existence. You’ll find more photographs in The Forwardian Arts Society Visual Arts 2010 Gallery at www.myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

The Shawnee Gallery is located near the Shawnee Playhouse in Shawnee on Delaware, PA. Along with Exhibitions of local artists’ works, they also offer workshops and special events for both the visual and literary arts as well. These include a Creative Writing Workshop led by Sumerly Gayle Buccino on Wednesday evenings, A “Peony Paint Out” from June 3rd - 6th, The Grand Opening of their Clay Studio on Tuesday June 15th, and a “Solstice Poetry Reading” on Saturday June 19th. The “Native, Creative, Divine! 2010” Exhibition continues until July 3rd with a closing reception. Please contact The Shawnee Gallery at 570-420-9494 for more information.

Websites of those mentioned in this article include The Shawnee Gallery at www.theshawneegallery.com, Jane Blair at www.janeblairquilts.com, Ingrid Blackert at www.ingridblackertjewelry.com, Lisa Fedon at www.lisafedon.com, Lindsay K. Gates at www.lindsaykgates.com, Penny Ross at www.pennyrosspainter.com, Andrea Robbins Rimberg at www.sculptureworks.biz, Linda Schwartz at www.lindaschwartzceramics.com, and The Shawnee Playhouse at www.theshawneeplayhouse.com.

Theatrical Review: Manhattan Casanova

Theatrical Review: Manhattan Casanova
Written by: Jenny Lyn Bader
Directed by: Sara Ferguson
Theatrical Review by: Paul Adam Smeltz

The Shawnee Playhouse in Shawnee on the Delaware, PA presented The Worthington Players production of “Manhattan Casanova” by Jenny Lyn Bader. Although the play is billed as a comedy, it isn‘t all that funny. It’s sort of like a Woody Allen film. It has some funny lines, it is well written, the acting and directing is exceptional, but it doesn’t inspire a lot of laughter. This doesn’t mean it isn’t good, it just means it really isn’t a comedy. It’s more like drama with slightly more than the usual amount of comic relief.

The play is about a Psychiatrist named Charlotte (as portrayed by Tracy Goss) who (against her better judgment) becomes romantically involve with John (as portrayed by Martin Neal who also served the production as its sound designer) whom by all accounts of her friends and patients to be a womanizing “Casanova.” As the relationship progresses, it’s discovered Charlotte has as many lovers as John and decide to abandon all “others” in order to remain true to each other. It is soon afterwards Charlotte realizes she is in love with John and he leaves.

This abandonment led to a very poignant moment at the end of act one. Ms. Goss expression of her despair is very subtle yet it reached into the heart of everyone who heard her muffled sobs. The lighting enhanced this as a shadow engulfed her so the audience could only focus on the sound. While the acting of the cast were of a very high quality, this one moment is very worthy of special attention as it adds a dimension of the character not seen throughout the play previously. One can tell a great deal of thought went into how this moment should be presented and recognition should be given to the actress, director, and technical crew who contributed their talent to it.

As said earlier, the cast of Jenny Lyn Bader’s “Manhattan Casanova” were excellent and contributed to the play being enjoyable. In addition to those mentioned so far, the remainder of the cast consisted of Nicole Dietze as Eva, Kate DiGerolamo as Anne, Stephanie Reyes as Pam, and Kyra Walters as Nicki. Each character added a dimension to the play beyond serving as vehicles to move the plot along. Their conversations with Charlotte revealed deeper realms of her nature and their descriptions of John revealed how perceptions often don’t reflect the depth of what we perceive. And, while these conversations continue throughout the play, the audience peers into their lives and soon discover aspects familiar to their own.

The Worthington Players production of “Manhattan Casanova” by Jenny Lyn Bader was directed by Sara Ferguson and Stage managed by Kevin Hillman. Michael Eyth designed the sets while Travis Southard was the Sound Technician and Emily Cioc was the Sound Technician. The producers were Ginny and Charlie Kirkwood. The Shawnee Playhouse Executive Di4rector is Midge McClosky and The Group Sales of their productions are handled by Mary Horn as assisted by Becky Haskell. The theater’s Publicist is Amy Cramer.

This production of “Manhattan Casanova” by Jenny Lyn Bader continues its run at The Shawnee Playhouse in Shawnee on the Delaware, PA until May 30th. Although there isn’t much laughter to be found in this “comedy,” the poignancy of this play makes it a meaningful evening at the theatre that should not be missed. Therefore, this reviewer highly recommends seeing it. The next Shawnee Playhouse presentations will be The Gong Sow on Friday June 4th, “Mysterrio’s Magic Shows for Kids” June 4th - July 3rd, “Id, I do” June 4th - September 3rd, “The Music Man” June 18th - August 28th, “The Last of the Red Hot Lovers” July 2nd to September 5th, “Willy Wonka Junior” July 8th - August 28th, and “The Secret Garden” July 16th - August 29th.

Those who enjoy the Passionate Art Lover level of membership in The Forwardian Arts Society are offered a $3.00 discount off the admission fee of The Shawnee Playhouse Productions (excluding Children Theatrical Productions and those presented by non Shawnee Production Companies). Please contact The Shawnee Playhouse at 570-421-5093 or Explore their website at www.theshawneeplayhouse.com for more information and to reserve your ticket.

Photograph provided by The Shawnee Playhouse depicting the cast of “Manhattan Casanova

Patty the Poet goes Cheeky

The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse in Stroudsburg, PA presented Patty the Poet on Friday May 21st who read from her collection of poems found in her new book titled, “Patty’s Heartfelt Poetry.” The quick gentle verses lingered as each stanza was completed. Her voice proved to be an appropriate instrument as she recited one poem after another. This was deeply appreciated by a crowd of people who just wanted to hear poetry that made them smile along with some which gave them pause in order to contemplate some deep inner truths to enhance their lives.

While her book, “Patty’s Heartfelt Poetry” was available for sale during the reading, it can also be found online through Xlibris Publications. Her poem titled, A True Angel” can be found in The Forwardian Arts Society new Literary and Arts Magazine called, “Forwardian” which is free and can be found at various locations throughout the Eastern Monroe County Area. A frequently updated listing distribution sites can be found at The Forwardian Arts Society website. You’ll find more photographs in The Forwardian Arts Society Cheeky Monkey 2010 Gallery at www.mysapce.com/forwardian_arts.

The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse offers a variety of coffee, drinks, and culinary treats along with events such as the one described in this article. Future events include The Forwardian Arts Society will hold a Literary Lovers’ Gathering Thursday May 27th beginning at 6pm featuring an opportunity to share some experiences, critique each other‘s work, and gain encouragement from both peers and those who simply enjoy reading and listening to new words, Lens Jams on Wednesday Evenings beginning at 6pm featuring smooth jazz and rock on acoustic guitars, “Just Say It” presently on Thursdays beginning at 7pm featuring an Open Mic Nite hosed by Joe Landolfa* offering an opportunity for Poets, Musicians, and Comedians to share their talents, and The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse in Stroudsburg, PA will present Apezilla on Saturdays beginning at 6pm featuring pop and classic rock. Please Contact The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse at 570-420-8222 for more information.

Contact Information of those mentioned in this article are Patty the Poet at patriciag4919@yahoo.com, Xlibris Publications at www.xlibris.com, and The Forwardian Arts Society at www.theforwardianartssociety.com.

Bullying Explored at PCT

The Pocono Community Theater in East Stroudsburg, PA Hosted The Youth Infusion, Inc presentation of a Documentary film titled, “BeNoBull” on Thursday May 20th. The evening included some Public Service Announcements (PSAs) dealing with Animal Abuse and Environmental Issues Students from The East Stroudsburg High School-South (ESHS-S) created along with some Spoken Word Performances by the local youth poets of Urban Mountain Voices (UMV). There were also works of art relating to the Bullying Issue created by the school’s Art Club mentored by Michael Jones.

Music presented by ESHS-S student DJ Patrick St. Richard greeted those who entered the theater as they took their seats. After some introductory welcomes, the PSAs were shown. Those students who were involved with “Animal Abuse Initiative” included Almadina Adzemovic, Samantha Barron, Christine Bleskachek, Richard Calvert, Tarryn Campbell, Allison Cramer, Lillian Davoli, Emily Diaz, Lauren DiFilippo, Tyler Hartle, Devyn Nicole Kolcun, David Xavier Lee Ping, Joseph Daniel Losgar, Allison Patricia March, Brianna Leigh Nadrowski, Alexis Martha Poster, Christopher James Proctor, Kelsey Rosario, Courtney Lynne Rode, Amber Scocozza, Alexis Soard, River Thompson, and Maryann Wagner. Those students participating in the Green Team who made the environmental PSAs include Ashley Aponte, Edward Attilano, Chelsey Bengtsson, Kaytie Donnely, Ryan Justin Dekmar, Desiree Feminella, Elizabeth Jan Frey, Matthew Samantha Illingworth, Rosalyn Libran, Jeremiah Mangandog, Bret Jacob Miller, Brianna Nicole Miller, Lauren Mae Moore, Shawn Saunders, Guy Swiney II, Infinity Tirado, Kiera Wade, Hannah G. Werner, and Laquan M. Williams. Considering the age range (15 to 17 year old) of the students who created the PSAs, they were well made. The only glitches were that some of them ended abruptly which included times when someone was on film speaking and haven‘t finished his or her sentence.

A Spoken Word (aka Poetry) performance was given by Urban Mountain Voices (UMV) who was introduced by it‘s founder Tricia McGarvin-Fernandez. As usual, their participation enhanced the topic of any event they’re a part of by providing it relevancy and a sense of urgency. Their deep and soulful truths goes beyond the scholastic perceptions of the issue and brings them to the reality those who are victimized face every single day. One never fails to be touched by their words and hearing them from poets Blake, Bekah, and a duo performance by Carl and Nessa was no exception although their presentations were exceptional.

The performance was followed by some reflective remarks given by the Students who made the Documentary titled, “BeNoBull.” They included Michael Colao, Patrick Monahan, Ashlee DeJesus, Skylar Ogden, Evan Willey, Shanna O’Connor, Marianne Novak, KJ Wilson, Shayna Smith, Sara Tait, Jamey Dumeus, and Jordan Rodriguez. A screening of the film followed which dealt with all types of what can now be classified as “Bullying.” Sexual, GLBT (Gay, Lesbian, Bi-Sexual, Transgender), Physical, Verbal, Racial, and Cyber Bullying. The film was made with the help of Pocono Community Access Television (PCA TV).

The approach of the Documentary Film to the topic was to explore it in a straight forward question and answer format. This involves interviewing someone with some knowledge and/or experience with the topic and putting the conversation on film. This is a good format for High School Students to learn about the art of documentary filmmaking, but it has its limitations. The primary one being is dependence on the answers one receives and the way (or lack of one) the subject enhances the audience interest in the topic so they would want to learn more about it. A more interesting approach would be to follow someone who is presently being bullied so the audience can experience it first hand.

After an intermission, a panel discussion in which the audience was invited to participate took place. It included Donna L. Hamilton, M. D. of Manifest Excellence, Brooke K. Langan of the East Stroudsburg Area School District, Rocco T. Seiler of the Pleasant Valley School District, Criminal Justice Consultant, Motivational Speaker, and Author of “Gangs ‘R’ Real” Michael Leonard, Sr., Steven Burgoon from Pocono Community Access Television (PCA TV), and others. The discussion mostly underlined various aspects of the film until the issue of parental moderating of their children’s internet activity. You’ll find more photographs in The Forwardian Arts Society Pocono Community Theater 2010 Gallery at www.mysapce.com/forwardian_arts.

This perspective came from one member of the panel and was quickly reproached by many of the students and other panel members (although their reproach was much more subtle) as it dealt with privacy issues among the students. Although many of the panel agreed parents should be able to see if there are instances of “Cyber Bulling” effecting their child by seeing the content firsthand, many agreed there should be a relationship of trust established between both parent and child beforehand. After all, (and this is from my personal perspective) some parents would use the information they find to abuse and manipulate their children if complete access to their internet conversations were gained. In other words, their children’s private thoughts and conversations would be used against them in very unhealthy ways.

Now, for some personal perspectives I have on the topic. Throughout my years in Elementary and Secondary (High) School years, I’ve been bullied a great deal. I was very over weight and became the bunt of jokes and ridicule along with being physically harassed by my class mates. This was a trying time for me as everyday was like a Hell on Earth. I dreaded going to school and I never have a time when I look back on those years with the fore longing I’ve heard many enjoy. I didn’t like being a kid and I have no fond memories of it.

However, although I’m glad schools have adopted “No Bullying” policies and have taken a more proactive approach in order to protect their students, I’m left wondering what this all really means. It seem this is some sort of scholastic trend created to generate good feelings for the educational system among the tax paying parents who send their children to school.

There has always been bullying ever since the first schools were built and it’s most likely there always will be whenever we place a variety of children together. Actually, bullying doesn’t’ even require a variety of children as siblings often engage in the activity as well. Now, bullying has evolved to encompass every social inconvenient there is ranging from the very serious forms of sexual harassment and physical abuse to taunts from insensitive peers who learned such attitudes from their parents. And, here is where a larger issue such a trendy approach makes the issue lacking.

“Bullying” doesn’t come from a vacuum. It is often taught from the home as parents continue the generational prejudices, attitudes, and violent methods of the past as their familiar mindsets confronts the real world with its modern and enlightened perspectives. This condition is prevalent in our society and cannot be effectively dealt with through a few after school programs or films made in a controlled scholastic environment void of controversial material so they will be found acceptable to a school board and parents.

“Bullying” never became an important issue in the school systems until The Columbine High School massacre which occurred on Tuesday April 20th, 1999. Two High School Seniors named Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold spent the day killing 12 students and one teacher along with injuring 21 other students directly and three people were injured while attempting to escape before committing suicide. It was shown the two were bullied leading them to severe mental anguish which they chose to alleviate by killing their tormentors and all who stood by to watch. Anti-Bullying programs were later put into place not to protect students from being bullied but to protect students, faculty, and staff from those seeking revenge. In other words, the bullies and their accessories ran for codified cover.

This by no means suggests this trend in curbing “bullying” is a sham. But, until it is explored more in depth than it presently is, it will always continue to destroy children even unto their adult years. We must look deeply into our society and how it accepts violent solutions such as war and WWF Matches to many of its problems. In doing so, we must look into ourselves and that is a very scary prospect for most of us. And, while films like those made by the Students of East Stroudsburg High School-South was a small step in this direction, it was a step nevertheless.

Youth Infusion is an organization created and run by young people which works to support youth as decision-makers, advocates, and community change-agents. We do this by helping the organizations and institutions that make decisions for youth start making decisions with youth. We know this is hard work. That is why we focus on the 'how-to' of youth-adult partnerships. We build collaborative structures, develop transparent processes, and promote inclusive cultures in both non-profit organizations and government agencies. Together, we will envision, plan, build, and secure communities in which we can all actively grow and thrive.

Urban Mountain Voices (UMV) is based in The Monroe County, PA area (aka the Poconos) and consists of Nessa Bell, Ryan Bernard, Blair Thomas, Malcolm Tinglin, Blake Quinn, Carl Watts, and KJ Wilson. The group provides young people an opportunity to express themselves in an open and honest manner through the medium. The group meets every Friday beginning at 4:30pm on the East Stroudsburg University (ESU) of PA Campus and welcomes young people between the ages of 13-20 regardless of their race, gender, sexual orientation, religious affiliation, or academic standing.

Along with special community events such as the screening of “BeNoBull,” The Pocono Community Theater in East Stroudsburg, PA presents independent and foreign films not commonly shown in larger theater complexes. Future events to be presented at The Pocono Community Theater include a Film and Chat Gathering hosted by The Forwardian Arts Society Friday June 4th. Please Contact The Pocono Community Theater at 570-421-3456 for more information.

The Contact information of those mentioned in this article are The Pocono Community Theater at www.poconocommunitytheater.org, Youth Infusion at www.youthinfusion.org, Urban Mountain Voices at www.urbanmountainvoices.org, Donna L. Hamilton, M. D. of Manifest Excellence at askme@manifestexcellence.com, Brooke K. Langan of the East Stroudsburg Area School District at brooke-Langan@esasd.net, Rocco T. Seiler of the Pleasant Valley School District at seiler.rooco@pvbears.org, Criminal Justice Consultant, Motivational Speaker, and Author of “Gangs ‘R’ Real” Michael Leonard, Sr. at www.gangsrreal.com, Steven Burgoon from Pocono Community Access Television (PCA TV) at info@pcatv1.org, and The Forwardian Arts Society at www.theforwardianartssociety.com

Forwardian’s First Day

The Forwardian Arts Society received 500 copies of the premier edition of its new Literary and Arts Magazine “Forwardian” just outside the Starbucks Coffeehouse Stroudsburg, PA at 1:37pm on Wednesday May 19th. We celebrated over a slice of Pizza at the neighboring Venuto’s Old World Pizza and was that ever good. I then went on my heroic journey (well, ok, maybe heroic isn’t the right word here) to begin distributing the magazine throughout the town.

Many Stores and restaurant owners gave me a curious look saying they have never heard of our magazine. I was tempted to say, “Well, duh” but common sense and the desire to share “Forwardian” with their customers kept my instincts at bay. I’ve placed about 200 copies this first day and handed out several more to people whom I knew and just happen to pass by while walking the streets.

A Distribution list can be found at our website We still have more places to visit so the list will change over the next few weeks. We hope to take a breather around then but we are already planning our next issue. We’ll be sure to let you know when we’re accepting your stories, poetry, art, and photography as we’re looking forward to receiving them. You’ll find some photographs I took of this wonderful event in The Forwardian Arts Society 2010 Gallery at www.myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

In the meantime, I would like to share my deepest appreciation to those who have either contributed creatively and/or financially to our endeavor along with those who kept a good thought for us. I would especially like to thank our Editor Debbie Burke of Pocono Jazz and Poetry for her tireless efforts in getting “Forwardian” ready to be published.

So, do you want a copy? Well, check out our website for a distribution site near you. But, if they ran out by the time you get there or you’re way out of the area, let me know. I’ll be glad to send you the PDF file for it via email.

Websites of those mentioned in this article include The Forwardian Arts Society at www.theforwardianartssociety.com, Venuto’s Old World Pizza at www.venutos.com, and Pocono Jazz and Poetry at www.poconojazzandpoetry.com

Starbucks for Music Lovers

The Starbucks Coffeehouse in Stroudsburg, PA held their Bi-weekly Open Mic Nite on Sunday May 16th. The even featured a variety of singer/songwriters who came to share their talents with an eager and encouraging audience. There were many who have performed since the beginning of the event who have become favorites. There were also some who have returned to the event after an absence making their presence a cause for celebration as their talents were missed. However, there was a new comer whose talents was as welcomed as a breath of fresh air enhancing the atmospheric conditions of the event.

The event’s host Eric J. Becker opened the evening performances with some of his work along with Abby Braman who provided back up. The event continued with performances by the well established Keith Haynes aka The Business Fairy, Rick Delgado, and Liz Mason who created a familiar tone to the event encouraging all who heard them to sit back and enjoy all they were about to receive. Barbara VanBuskirk and Emmitt Henry Derrick returned to an appreciative audience while Greg Bonpone brought his new voice to the gathering.

The Open Mic Nite event at Starbuck was preceded by The Forwardian Arts Society Music Lovers’ Gathering. Not many attended but the waiting for those who came to perform was well worth it. The next Music Lovers’ Gathering is attentively for Thursday June 17th at The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse in Stroudsburg, PA at 6pm. Followed by their weekly Open Poetry Reading titled, “Just Say It.“ that welcomes musicians and begins at 7pm. Please keep an eye out for the invitations I’ll be sending around that date.

In the meantime, you’ll find more photographs of the Open Mic Nite in The Forwardian Arts Society Music Lovers’ Gathering Gallery at www.myspace.com/forwardian_arts. The next Open Mic Nite at Starbucks will be held Sunday June 6th beginning a6 6:30pm. Please contact Eric Becker at 570-872-7896 for more information.

Contact information of those mentioned in this article include Eric J. Becker at www.myspace.com/ericjbecker, Abby Braman at www.myspace.com/rivalstag, Rick Delgado at www.myspace.com/rickblue77, Keith Haynes aka The Business Fairy at www.myspace.com/thebusinessfairy, The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse at 570-420-8222, and The Forwardian Arts Society at www.theforwardianartssociety.com.

Arts on Main 2010

The Pocono Arts Council held an Art on Main Celebration throughout the town of Stroudsburg, PA on Saturday May 15th which they co sponsored with The Jacob Stroud Corporation. This day dedicated to the arts featured an artist reception for The PoconoArts annual Members' Exhibition at The ArtSpace Gallery, The 4th Annual "Fine Art" Parking Meter Competition, and PoconoArts Squared featuring fine art, crafts, and local non-profit organizations on Main Street and Courthouse Square. The event also included several Musicians and poets who performed throughout the town as well.

It was a wonderful day to be out as the art gods smiled upon the attendee with some bright and warm weather so they could enjoy walking along the streets of Stroudsburg unencumbered by the chilled, wet climate the area had experienced in recent days. This welcomed change was more indicative of the season as it marked the beginning of the area’s monthly excursions into the creative community through PoconoArts Squared and other events. The day also saw the opening of the new Main St. Art Gallery (whose work by Susanna Shap captivated the imagination) and Le Persil Bistro (whose menu created an appetite by just holding it prior to even glancing at the items) added to the event’s sensual delights.

While walking down the streets, I was overwhelmed by the friendly countenance of the vendors and musicians who lined the streets. Among the vendors who shared their creative endeavors were Margaret Benson of Just Me Pottery, JoAnn Stratakos of Mudworks Pottery, Ursula Pooley of Me Crazy Jewelry, Leslie Nieto of The Mud Place, Penny Ricco who presented her Painted Gypsy Jewels, Brad Sears of Brad Sears Fine Woodturning, Mariana Russo of Mariana’s Arts and Crafts, Patty the Poet whose words never fail to still the troubled soul, Windows of Art and Things Less Ordinary, and Artist John Kobek. These and others provided my eye with a multitude of visual delights as I explored each piece and learned from each artist and artisan the nature of their work.

Not only my eyes were treated throughout the day but my ears were as well. A bevy of sounds echoed throughout the town which included The Mountain Winds whose renditions of Classical Music delightfully filled the courthouse square, The Lost Ramblers who wondered around the town playing the type of bluegrass music that lead people home, Jesse and Kathy Green whose performance at Josephine's Fleur de Lis slowed the harried pace of those wishing to explore everything the event had to offered to a syncopated step, Guitarist Stan Stewart who played to those visiting the Yellow Moon Boutique, and (although I didn’t get a chance to see them, I‘m sure) the melodies of The SheilaMark Duo brought an enchanted end to the day (after all, they always do).

The highlight of the day was The Pocono Arts Council Members’ Show at The ArtSpace Gallery. Nearly 100 artists throughout Monroe and surrounding counties presented the best of their work in this juried show. The Jurors this year were Robert Cooke, George Thompson, and Emily Thompson. Gift certificates and other items were awarded to those who received First, Second, Third Prize recognition for their work as well as those receiving Honorable Mention Status in each Visual Art Discipline. I was not there for the awards ceremonies as I was engaged with some wonderful conversation on the streets.

However, I do have a list of award recipients and the endeavors that were chosen. So, here they are:

In the media of Oils, First Prize went to Jill Swersie, Second Prize went to Mary Hart, Third Prize went to James Gloria, and Honorable Mention went to Dee Huxter. In the media of Acrylics, First Prize went to Doug Gilbert, Second Prize went to Debra Franz, Third Prize went to Susan Bernadett Le Bel, and Honorable Mention went to Ka-Son Reeves. In the media of Watercolors, First Prize went to Paula George, Second Prize went to Joan Raushi, Third Prize went to Thomas Augusta, and Honorable Mention went to Shirley Epstein. In the media titled, “Works on Paper,” First Prize went to Mark Ciocca, Second Prize went to Michelle Neifert, Third Prize went to Derrick Cameron, and Honorable Mention went to Jessica Yusko. In the media of 3-D Fine Art, First Prize went to JoAnn Stratakos, Second Prize went to Brad Sears, Third Prize went to Susan Crowley, and Honorable Mention went to Ursula Pooley. In the media of Photography, First Prize went to Andrea Rollins Rimberg, Second Prize went to Jill Campbell, Third Prize went to Shane Izykowski, and Honorable Mention went to George Debronski. In the Mixed Media category, First Prize went to Nancy Bohm, Second Prize went to Judy Hankins, Third Prize went to Peter Ambush, and Honorable Mention went to Charles Hanson. In the category of “Wearable Art/Fiber,” First Prize went to Leslie Mulliken, Second Prize went to April Field, and Third Prize went to Pat Bruck. The Best of Show Award went to Lenore Fiore-Mills.

As mentioned earlier, the Members’ exhibition featured nearly 100 artists (99 to be exact). Many of these are friends I’ve become acquainted over the years and their work never fails to enhance my appreciation for what they do and to humbly learn more about myself. I wish I could mention them all in this article in order to give them the recognition they deserve. But, to do so would make the article too wordy (even for me) and I’m more than likely forget a name or two. Plus I have a tendency to misspell a name or two which I may have done enough of already. So, let me just say their work was wonderful. But, those of you who are reading this article don’t have to take my word for it. You can go down to the ArtSpace Gallery in Stroudsburg, PA to see for yourself as the exhibition continues until May 30th.

The Arts on Main Event also served as an Opportunity for The Forwardian Arts Society Photography Lovers’ Gathering to meet. I personally didn’t see many of our number there, but I’m sure you were. So, if you have any pictures you took during the day and would like to share them, please feel free to do so. Our next Photography Lovers Gathering will be during The 2nd Annual Pocono Raceway Festival will be held in Stroudsburg, PA Saturday June 5th. Please keep an eye out for the invitations I’ll be sending around that date. In the meantime, you’ll be able to find more of the photographs I took during the day at The Forwardian Arts Society Photography Lovers’ Gathering for 2010 Gallery at www.myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

The next events presented by The Pocono Arts Council will be “The Arts by Me Party” on Tuesday May 18th and “The PoconoArts Yard Sale” on June 12th and 13th. Please Contact The Pocono Arts Couincil at 570-476-4460 for more information.

The contact information of those mentioned in this article include The Pocono Arts Council at www.poconoarts.org, The Jacob Stroud Corp at www.stroudsburg.net, The Main St. Art Gallery at www.modernhouseart.com, Le Persil Bistro at le_persil_bistro@verizon.net, Mudworks Pottery at www.mudworkspotterypa.com, Me Crazy Jewelry at www.mecrazy.com, The Mud Place at www.themudplace.com, Penny Ricco’s Painted Gypsy Jewels at www.Blogspot.com/paintedgypsyjewels, Brad Sears Fine Woodturning at www.turningarts.com, Mariana’s Arts and Crafts at www.marianarusso.webs.com, Windows of Art and Things Less Ordinary at www.togglebees.com, John Kobek at www.johnkolbek.com, Jesse and Kathy Green at www.jessegreen.com Josephine's Fleur de Lis at www.josephinesonmain.com, Stan Stewart at www.music4moment.com, The Yellow Moon Boutique at www.yellowmoonboutique.com, The SheilaMark Duo at www.sheilamarkproductions.com, James Gloria at www.tottsgap.com, Ka-Son Reeves at www.ihnigmuh.com, Thomas Augusta at www.thomasaugusta.com, Marcia Flammonde at www.marciaflammonde.com, Andrea Robbins-Rimberg at www.sculptureworks.biz, Shane Izykowski at www.myspace.com/shaneizykowski, and The Forwardian Arts Society at www.theforwardianartssociety.com.

Springtime for COTA

The Celebration of the Arts (COTA) held their Spring Fling at The Willow Tree Inn in Stroudsburg, PA on Friday May 14th. The Fund Raising Event was organized to help recoup some of the financial loses the annual festival incurred throughout the recent years. Jazz and art lovers who have come to know the festival as a haven for the multitude of creative forms it supports gathering to show their support for COTA.

Many area businesses, artists, and photographer donated items for the silent and live auction to help in this fund raising endeavor. These included the works of Tim Helman, Liz Pemberton, Garth Woods, Dave Coulter, and Robert Doney along with gift certificates from such businesses like The Sweet Creams Café. The bidding added an excitement to the evening as individuals competed for ownership of the work displayed throughout the room.

However, no event benefiting COTA would be complete without some excellent Jazz moving the soul with its unique syncopations. This desire was amply satisfied by Nancy and Spencer Reed who performed on guitar and vocals along side Bill Goodwin on Drums and Rick Chamberlain on Trombone. Smiles and clicking fingers accompanied the musicians as the audience became part of the set. You’ll find more photographs in The Forwardian Arts Society COTA Spring Fling 2010 Gallery at www.myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

The Celebration of the Arts (COTA) Jazz and Arts Festival is held in Delaware Water Gap, PA over a three day period in September on the weekend after Labor Day. It consists of Friday evening events of an Artists’ Reception at The Antoine Dutot Gallery and Museum featuring artists participating in their juried “Music Motif” exhibition and presentations at The Presbyterian Church of the Mountain presenting theater, dance, classical music, and other forms of performing arts. The following Saturday and Sunday features Jazz performed by world class musicians and singers along with numerous booths filled with artist and artisans to be visited throughout the day.

COTA holds general meetings to help plan the festival the first Tuesday of the month and invites community to attend. Their next meeting will take place Tuesday June 8th at 7:30pm and The Deer Head Inn in Delaware Water Gap, PA. Please contact COTA at 570-424-2210 for more information.

Website of those mentioned in this article include Celebration of the Arts (COTA) at www.cotajazz.org, The Willow Tree Inn at www.willowtreeinn.biz, Spencer and Nancy Reed at www.reedjazz.com, The Deer Head Inn at www.deerheadinn.com, The Antoine Dutot Gallery and Museum at www.dutotmuseum.com, The Presbyterian Church of the Mountain at www.churchofthemountain.org.

Film Review: Vincere

Film Review: Vincere
Directed by: Marco Bellocchio
Performances by: Giovanna Mezzogiorno and Filippo Timi
Film Review by: Paul Adam Smeltz

“Vincere” (which means “Win” in in the Italian Language) was the only Italian film in competition at the 2009 Cannes Film Festival and won four Awards at the Chicago International Film Festival including a well deserved one in Cinematography. The film is based on the life of Ida Dalser who bore Benito Mussolini a son prior to World War One and claimed to be his wife. Her tragic life is detailed as she endeavors to gain recognition for herself and son as Mussolini’s wife and son leading them both to be admitted to mental institutions and their eventual suicides.

The film opens at Dalser and Mussolini’s meeting which occurred during a political meeting in which a young Mussolini took a watch and claimed, if he was not struck down in five minutes, God did not exist. Dalser is seen impressed by this boldness and the two later begin a very sexual affair. They lose touch as Mussolini joins the army to participate in the war until she discovers him humbly accepting praise from the King whom he’d spoken so ardently against in his political speeches. She also discover he had married and had a daughter since they saw each other and thus begins her tragic journey. A few things about the film itself struck this reviewer while watching it.

The first was the intricate beauty of the cinematography. It’s style was very reminiscent of the Neo-realistic films made in Italy after World War Two. The most notable of these films include Rossellini's “Open City” and Vittorio De Sica’s “The Bicycle Thieves.” There were also hints of Federico Fellini’s work throughout which served to enhance its already impressive imagery. It is interesting to note these approaches to film making in the Italian Cinema began after the death of Benito Mussolini and would have never been made during his rule as his Fascist Regime heavily censored the film industry forbidding such honesty to be presented.

The second aspect of the film which intrigued this reviewer was that is was about (although indirectly) Benito Mussolini. It brought to a realization we know very little about the other leaders of the Axis Powers during World War Two. We see shows on the Discovery, History, and Military Channels about Adolph Hitler all the time. We know everything about his. We know about his medical condition and his diet which led to an abundance of gas. We know about his family and his dog. But we know very little about his Allies Benito Mussolini of Italian Colonial Empire and Hirohito aka Emperor Showa of The Empire of Japan. It was interesting to see how Mussolini came to power and how he exerted his rule. This was not what the film was about, but these elements of his life were there to satisfy the curious.

There are many things one can say in praise of this film as it leads the viewer to many terrains both intellectually and emotionally. But, this reviewer feels it suffices to say it is a very visually stunning film with deep compelling characters. To say it is well directed and acted is an understatement, but words cannot really do justice to this film and one would really have to see it to appreciate it fully.

However, there is one particular aspect of the film this reviewer would like to focus upon. It is the constant weaving of the film’s narrative between one time period to another. In one moment, we are watching a scene taking place before World War One. In another moment, we are in 1935. And, in another moment, we are witnessing the fall of Mussolini in 1945. It is during this later sequence we return to the meeting in which Mussolini and Dalser met to see the watch completing the five minute deadline Mussolini set for God to strike him down. This reviewer knows “hmmmm” isn’t really a very professional assessment of a film, but it describes the moment perfectly.

“Vincere” is not rated and has completed its run at The Pocono Community Theater in East Stroudsburg, PA. It is unfortunate this film has completed its run so quickly as the theater serves the community best by showing such cinematic work. But, at least it was shown giving the area an opportunity to see it. After all, this reviewer is pretty sure “Vincere” was not shown in the local multiplex. For films currently being show at the theater, you may call 570-421-3456 for titles, show times, and dates. Most films run one week (as did “Vincere”) but some films may be held over for an additional week or two depending on ticket sales.

After the Friday May 7th showing of the film, The Forwardian Arts Society Gathered in The Pocono Community Theater’s Café to chat about it. The turnout was minimal but the conversation was very engaging as many of the visual, psychological, and historical aspects of the film were explored. We invite you to join us Friday June 4th to watch a film and participate in an equally stimulating conversation. Please contact me at forwardian@hotmail.com for more information.

COTA Meets in May

The Celebration of the Arts (COTA) held their monthly meeting on Tuesday May 11th at The Deer Head Inn in Delaware water Gap, PA for those who would like to help plan their 33rd Annual Festival. The meeting was informative as the board of directors shared how the festival is progressing thus far with those who attended. This included some plans to present some new performing art forms designed to enhance the event.

Besides receiving information on what is happening with the festival, many came to become reacquainted with friends they have made over the years. It was good for me to see some of the people whom I’ve come to call my closest of friends as we shared the love we have for the festival and the arts it supports. You’ll find more photographs in The Forwardian Arts Society COTA Meetings 2010 Gallery at www.myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

The Celebration of the Arts (COTA) Jazz and Arts Festival is held in Delaware Water Gap, PA over a three day period in September on the weekend after Labor Day. It consists of Friday evening events of an Artists’ Reception at The Antoine Dutot Gallery and Museum featuring artists participating in their juried “Music Motif” exhibition and presentations at The Presbyterian Church of the Mountain presenting theater, dance, classical music, and other forms of performing arts. The following Saturday and Sunday features Jazz performed by world class musicians and singers along with numerous booths filled with artist and artisans to be visited throughout the day.

The next meeting to help plan The 33rd Annual Celebration of the Arts Jazz and Arts Festival will take place Tuesday June 8th at 7:30pm and The Deer Head Inn and all are welcomed to attend. In the meantime, there will be a fundraising event held at The Willow Tree Inn in Stroudsburg, PA on Friday May 14th beginning at 6pm featuring live jazz with both a silent and live art auction. Please contact COTA at 570-424-2210 for more information.

Website of those mentioned in this article include Celebration of the Arts (COTA) at www.cotajazz.org, The Deer Head Inn at www.deerheadinn.com, The Antoine Dutot Gallery and Museum at www.dutotmuseum.com, The Presbyterian Church of the Mountain at www.churchofthemountain.org, and The Willowtree Inn at www.willowtreeinn.biz.

Theatrical Review: Dr. Cook’s Garden

Theatrical Review: Dr. Cook’s Garden
Written by: Ira Lavin
Directed by: Sue Butler
Theatrical Review by: Paul Adam Smeltz

The Shawnee Playhouse in Shawnee on the Delaware, PA presented The Center Stage Players‘ production of “Dr. Cook‘s Garden” by Ira Lavin who is best know for his work which includes Rosemary's Baby, The Boys from Brazil, The Stepford Wives, and Deathtrap. The air of mystery found in most of these pieces can be found to some greater extent in “Dr. Cook’s Garden.” It is a suspenseful tale of a young Jim Tennyson (as portrayed by Patrick Turner who also serves on The Center Stage Players’ Board of Directors) retuning to his home town for a visit after becoming a Doctor only to discover the doctor who has been not only his mentor but a father to him, has been killing a number of his patients whom he has determined to be not fit to live.

These determining factors Dr. Leonard Cook (as portrayed by Jack Butler who also designed the set) includes their abusive behaviors, their standing with the law, their moral attributes, and their ability to become a meaningful part of the community which includes those who are born mentally handicapped. The play not only examines the legal ramifications of Dr. Cook’s actions but the morality of his justifications as well. This is done through a series of dialogues between the two doctors which to this reviewer reminded him of the dialogues of Socrates recorded by Plato.

However, this dialogue seems to conclude when Dr. Cook agrees to cease his deadly practice and allows the young Dr. Tennyson to monitor his future activities to make sure he does. As I’ve said, it seems to conclude in this manner but any avid reader of mystery fiction knows better. Dr. Cook develops a plan to kill his young protégé so he can continue weeding his community of the hazards threatening its healthy growth.

He does so but in his misplaced sense of right and wrong Dr. Cook allows his victim an opportunity to live by sharing with him a secret which he can use if he ever was to reveal his actions to the proper authorities. The young doctor reveals a secret and is given the antidote assuring his survival. However, when the young doctor reveals the secret was a fabrication, the elder doctor becomes enraged screaming, “Thou Shalt not Lie. Thou Shalt not Lie.” and begins physically attacking the still weaken youth until he succumbs to a heart attack and dies. And, like Socrates, he dies of a self inflicted poison. Not of Hemlock, but of his own sense of moral certainty which has caused him to perform some immoral acts.

The remainder of the cast consisted of Nance Brown as Bea Schmidt, Ed Erm as Elias Hart, and Sue Butler as Dora Ludlow and also served the production as its director and set designer while serving as The Center Stage Players’ President. As with many productions presented by The Center Stage Players, it is a pleasure to sit in the audience to watch the actors act. There is a love for the craft that shines through their performances not seen often enough in other theatrical troupes. Their love is not Hamish as the characters they play always come before their portrayal of them, but it is a good honest love that enhances the play itself. This is appreciated by the audience and by this reviewer as well.

The Shawnee Playhouse presentation of The Center Stage Players’ production of “Dr. Cook‘s Garden” by Ira Lavin was (as mentioned earlier) Directed by Sue Butler and Stage Managed by Mary Stewart Erm who also serves as The Center Stage Players’ Vice President. The Lighting Design was done by Arthur Ritter while Eric Dwyer and Dan Eash (who also serves on The Center Stage Players’ Board of Directors) served as Sound and Light Technicians. Scot Cleaveland served the production as one of its set designers. Other members of The Center Stage Players include Lillian Gonzalez who serves as their Secretary, Katherine Neville who serves as their Treasurer and as the production’s Program and Flyer Designer, and Pat Van Varick who serves on their Board of Directors.

The Executive Director of The Shawnee Playhouse is Midge McClosky while the producers are Ginny and Charlie Kirkwood. The Sales Manager is Mary Horn while members of the Box Office Staff are Becky Haskell and Chrissy McManus. The Playhouse’s costumer is Missy Benefield. The Shawnee Playhouse publicity is handled by Amy Cramer while David Schrage is its Webmaster.

This presentation of The Center Stage Players’ production of “Dr. Cook‘s Garden” by Ira Lavin will conclude its run at The Shawnee Playhouse in Shawnee on the Delaware, PA on Sunday May 9th and this reviewer was unable to make his recommendation of this play until now. However, there is one more day in which you can see it and this reviewer suggest you make some tracks and do so. It is well worth watching for both the suspense it builds and the superb acting it presents. The next Shawnee Playhouse in Shawnee on the Delaware, PA presentations will include The Pocono Skies Electro Music Festival May 15th and 16th and “Manhattan Casanova” May 21st - 30th. Please contact The Shawnee Playhouse at 570-421-5093 or Explore their Website at www.theshawneeplayhouse.com for more information and to reserve your ticket. Please feel free to Explore The Center Stage Players’ Website at www.centerstageplayers.org to learn more information about them.

Those who enjoy the Passionate Art Lover level of membership in The Forwardian Arts Society are offered a $3.00 discount off the admission fee of selected The Shawnee Playhouse Productions.

Photograph provided by The Shawnee Playhouse.

The Forwardian Interview

Vera Petra and Clarisa Dear who are co hosts of The Petraology 233 Show airing Wednesdays beginning at 6pm on The Pocono Internet Broadcasting Company (PIBCO) in Stroudsburg, PA interviewed Paul Adam Smeltz (yeah that’s me) and Debbie Burke of Pocono Jazz and Poetry (PJP) on Wednesday May 5th in regards to their upcoming Literary and Arts Magazine titled, “Forwardian.” Although much of the conversation centered around the magazine, good portions of it included PJP, The Forwardian Arts Society, plans for our combined upcoming ArtSmash of the Poconos taking place in Blakeslee in July, and the meaningful experiences the arts can have for so many lives. It was a fun experience as it was wonderful to have the opportunity to share what we do and are planning to do with the public through the media. You’ll find more photographs in The Forwardian Arts Society 2010 Gallery at www.myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

The Pocono Internet Broadcasting Company (PIBCO) in Stroudsburg, PA is a new radio station that utilizes the internet to air its variety of programs. Access to the station can be gained through its website and is interactive most of the time. Many show feature not only recorded music but interviews with artists and musician along with live in studio concerts. Please Contact PIBCO at 570-420-3389 for more information.

The websites of those mentioned in this article include The Petraology 233 Show at www.myspace.com/rocklore1, The Pocono Internet Broadcasting Company at wwwPIBCO1.com, Pocono Jazz and Poetry at www.poconojazzandpoetry.com, The Forwardian Arts society at www.theforwardianartscoiety.com.

Music at Starbucks

The Starbucks Coffeehouse in Stroudsburg, PA held their bi weekly Open Mic Nite holsted by Eric J. Becker on Sunday May 2nd. It’s been a while since I’ve been to Starbucks to hear the new music the event is known for. Although I’ve arrived late and missed many of the performers, it was good to come back to what I’ve been missing.

The musicians I had the opportunity to hear included Emily Barnes along with Abby Braman and Liz Mason who were a duo some time ago called, “Friday Night Parking Lots” and it was a delight for those who remember their harmonies to see them perform once again. It was also an added thrill to learn they may consider re establishing their musical presence. Rick Delgado performed next whose set included an unique rendition of the Eagles’ “Hotel California” which transcended the original.

The finale of the event presented Eric J. Becker whose many of his original songs which have taken root in the heads of many who have heard them before. This is a very welcomed experience as his songs has a resonance about them that makes thinking about them and remembering their tunes very enjoyable. The evening ended with many eagerly awaiting the next gathering of singer/songwriters which will be Sunday May 16th beginning at 6pm. Please contact Eric Becker at 570-872-7896 for more information. You’ll find more photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society Starbucks Open Mic 2010 Gallery at www.myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

Website of those mentioned in this article include Eric J. Becker at www.myspace.com/ericjbecker, Friday Night Parking Lots at www.myspace.com/fnpl, Abby Braman at www.myspace.com/rivalstag, and Rick Delgado at www.myspace.com/rickblue77.

Pets in Dreamland

The Dreamland Creations in Stroudsburg, PA held an Artists’ Reception on Sunday May 2nd featuring a multitude of artists sharing their visions for their exhibition titled, “The Pets Show.” The variety of approaches to the subject was quite astounding as they ranged from loving tribute to a late dog, cat, or other animal to a fantasized relationship with a mythical animal only living in the imagination of the artist who created it. Or, is it.

Although the works in themselves were captivating, the highlight of the event was the variety and depth of the conversations being shared. An example of this was discovered when I entered the back room looking to refill my cup of wine two musicians talking about the finer points of certain instruments and the effects they had on their songs and the audience they performed for. Much of the technical points went over my head as I’m not a musician nor have I ever been trained as such. But, the conversation entranced me nonetheless especially since I began to realize this is very typical to the atmosphere created at Dreamlands Creations.

To me, this is what an Artist Reception is all about. It’s not just looking at nice pieces a gallery hopes you’ll purchase. It’s about sharing thoughts about the arts in all its manifestations and enhancing the love we have for them through a deeper understanding of all it inspires. This exchange can be found in other galleries, but it is more pronounced in Dreamlands Creations.

Perhaps this is because their venue is quite a bit less conventional than others and therefore not set in any established pattern. Perhaps it those who are attracted to the venue whose thoughts are filled with the vibrancy of youth. Or, perhaps it’s the fact those who adorn their forms with body art (tattoos and piercing) have a way of looking at the world differently than us plain skin people do and this encourages conversations uncommon in other galleries. Regardless of the reason, it is a wonderful occurrence that is welcomed by all who love the arts and are open minded enough to be enhanced by the experience.

Those artists participating in “The Pet Show” include Jake Roth, Will Mohlenhoff, Geoff Darrow, Shane Izykowski, Marcia Flammonde, RenDi, Mary Fodness, Marty Klotz, Vince Locke, Abby Braman, Richard Harris, Jr., M J Smith, Mark Parcell, Judy Zarach, Helen Victoria, Michael Parsons, Mike Zelonis, “Skelly,” Phill Bracio, Mary McCauley, Kailei Pichottii, AnaMarie Hendricks, Myke Maldonado, Joe Mooney, Nancy Knott, Richard Spezzano, Andrea Robbins-Rimberg, John Kolbek, and Heather Magnano. The Exhibition continues until June 1st. You’ll find more photographs in The Forwardian Arts Society Dreamland Creations 2010 Gallery at www.myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

The Dreamland Creations in Stroudsburg, PA serves as a studio where individuals can adorn their forms with a variety of body art such as tattoos and piercing reaching out to the vast community of conventional and non mainstream artists throughout the area. Their next Artists’ Reception will feature a variety of artists in an exhibition titled, “The Flower Show.” The reception will take place Sunday June 6th beginning at 4pm. The Exhibition will continue until June 30th. Please Contact The Dreamland Creations at 570-421-6313 for more information.

Contact information of those mentioned in this article include The Dreamland Creations Tattoo Studios at www.dreamlandcreations.com, Wil Mohlenhoff at www.myspace.com/wilbium, Shane Izykowski at www.myspace.com/shaneizykowski, Marcia Flammonde at www.marciaflammonde.com, RenDi at www.myspace.com/translucent_skin, Abby Braman at www.myspace.com/rivalstag, Richard Harris, Jr. at www.cardsbyharris.com, Helen Victoria at www.facebook.com/helenvitoria, Michael Parsons at www.myspace.com/michaelparsons26, Mary McCauley at www.myspace.com/mjmccauleyda, Myke Maldando at www.myspace.com/tatmyke, Joe Mooney at www.myspace.com/artistjoemooney, Nancy Knott at naknott@yahoo.com, Richard Spezzano at www.facebook.com/richard.spezzano, Andrea Robbins-Rimberg at www.sculptureworks.biz, and John Kolbeck at www.johnkolbek.com

An Open Mic at the Monkey

The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse in Stroudsburg, PA held an Open Mic Event featuring Holly Avila from Blue Planet/Planeta Azul on Sunday May 2nd. The afternoon was filled with music and conversation. The event also served as a launch of The Forwardian Arts Society Visual Art Lovers’ Gathering.

It was a quiet afternoon with very few attendees. Still, it was nice to chat with those who were there. You’ll find more photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society Visual Art Lovers’ Gathering 2010 Gallery at www.myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse serves a variety of foods and beverages and presently holds a weekly Open Mic Event on Sundays at 4pm which welcomes Musicians, Singers, and Writers. The Next Events held there will be their Grand Opening Event on Saturday May 8th beginning at 12noon, The Forwardian Arts Society Music Lovers’ Gathering on Sunday May 16th at 3pm, Patty the Poet on Friday May 21st beginning at 7pm, and The Forwardian Arts Society Lite4rary Lovers’ Gathering on Sunday May 23rd at 3pm. Please Contact The Cheeky Monkey Coffee House at 570-420-8222 for more information.‎

Websites of those mentioned in this article include Blue Planet/Planeta Azul at www.myspace.com/blueplanetplanetaazul and The Forwardian Arts Society at www.TheForwardianArtsSociety.com.

Penna and Carr at The Jukebox

The Main Street Jukebox in Stroudsburg, PA held an Artists’ Reception on Saturday May 1st featuring The Art of Victoria Penna and Marty Carr along with music provided by Dewey Decimal and the System and Mad Lucas. A sizable crowd gathered at the record store to be entreated by the images and sounds that greeted them. They were not disappointed as the work of the artists captured their imagination while the music excited their bodies with its beat.

The pieces presented by Marty Carr were varied and touched upon many themes. One of particular interest was a depiction of a door with faint shadowy images seen through its widows. The inscription within the painting read something to the effect how precious the state of privacy was. One began to wonder if the closed doors were affording privacy to those we could barely see or to guard our privacy from them. The ambivalence of the work served to draw the viewer in through their ponderings as did her other works in similar manners.

Some of the pieces presented by Victoria Penna depicted spiritual themes of eastern persuasion in a new and intriguing way. This added a fresh interpretation to the significance of the deities transcending the traditional understanding of them. Other works allowed the viewer to utilize their imagination while admiring the Asian influence on her stylings. They reminded one of the Japanese form known as Anime but it went beyond the medium. Ms. Penna brought new to the form through her unique eye and talent expanding its boundaries.

The event was enhanced by the music of Dewey Decimal and the System and Mad Lucas. Their loud, kick ass music filled the room shaking its walls while slapping the listeners silly to their joy. If there were more room to dance, there would be dancing. But, most were content to listen while dancing within their heads as the rhythm moved them. The Exhibition continues until May 30th. You’ll find more photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society Main St. Jukebox 2010 Gallery at at www.myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

In addition to Art Exhibitions and Concerts, The Main Street Jukebox offers recordings made on CDs, Tapes, and Vinyl. Their next event will feature The Art of Nicole Hammond and Andrew Diehl with an Artists’ Reception to be held Saturday July 3rd beginning at 6pm. Please Contact The Main St. Jukebox at 570-424-2246 for more information about these events and all they have to offer.

Websites of those mentioned in this article include The Main Street Jukebox at www.myspace.com/mainstjukebox Victoria Penna at www.myspace.com/vickypennasucks, Dewey Decimal and the System at www.myspace.com/deweydecimalplaysmusic, and Mad Lucas at www.myspace.com/themadlucasband.

The Books, Brushes, Blooms Festival

The Eastburg Community Alliance held their Annual Books, Brushes, Blooms Festival on Saturday May 1st featuring local Writers, Visual Artists, Florists, and Gardeners at The Miller Park adjacent to Crystal Street in East Stroudsburg, PA. Although few attended the event, it was full of a myriad of colors radiating from both the arts and the floral arrangements prevalent throughout the park. It was a good day to enjoy in the gentle atmosphere of the event. The Forwardian Arts Society utilized the event to hold their first Photography Lovers’ Gathering for 2010.

Those community merchant who shared their books, artwork, and information included The East Stroudsburg Railroad Tower Society, The Eastern Monroe Public Library, The Pocono Community Theater, The Mud Place, Photographer L. Mann, Glassworks by Sandy Linstedt, Gourds and painted boxes by Pamela Mading, Lisa Brauman Wispe who presented readings from her children‘s book, titled, “Fritter‘s Spring,” Fiber Art by Liz Pemberton, Romance novels written by Gloria Mallette, The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC), Watercolors by Jean Duvall, Art by John Kobek, Poet Meredith Stempel who had her new book titled, “Health, Heart, Shoes, and more” available for sale, The Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of the Poconos (UUFP), Groudhog Blues Pottery, Nancy Knott of Knot Just Jewels, and Abigail Designs. Music was provided by Eric Hanston of Dewey Decimal and the System. You’ll find more photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society Photography Lovers’ Gathering for 2010 Gallery at at www.myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

Contact information of those mentioned in this article include The Eastburg Community Alliance at www.eastburgalliance.com, The Forwardian Arts Society at www.TheForwardianArtsSociety.com, The Eastern Monroe Public Library at www.monroepl.org, The Pocono Community Theater at www.poconocommunitytheater.org, The Mud Place at www.themudplace.com, Pamela Mading at pamelamading@yahoo.com, Lisa Brauman Wispe at iformat@msn.com, Liz Pemberton at lizpemberton59@hotmail.com, Gloria Mallette at www.gloriamallette.com, Abigail Designs at www.imageevent.com/abby607/abigaildesign, John Kobek at www.johnkolbek.com, Jean Duvall 570-369-5187, The Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of the Poconos (UUFP) at www.uupoconos.org, and Dewey Decimal and the System at www.myspace.com/deweydecimalplaysmusic.

Slamming for the Community

The Pocono Community Theater in East Stroudsburg, PA hosted The First NEPA Poetry Slamfest on Friday April 30th featuring 2009 Women’s Individual Word Slam Champion Rachel McKibbens along with Spoken Word performances by members of Urban Word (U-W) NYC, The Philadelphia Youth Poetry Movement (PYPM), and Urban Mountain Voices (UMV) groups. These groups provide young people a voice in which they can express themselves poetically on their own terms.

The festival began with music provided by Cool DJ Adverb with a statement of purpose given by Urban Mountain Voices (UMV). Soon after the statement was concluded, a spoken word performance was given by Fafi aka 3 percent who is a theater professor from Zimbabwe teaching at ESU. His African rhythms flowed through the audience and became more powerful as he caught them upon their return only to throw them out again with the new insurged energies electrifying all who touched the words. This performance was followed by an equally powerful one given by PYPM Poets Anwar Jabari and Kavi Marque who slapped the audience into further wakefulness to the rhythm and meaning embedded in the experiences they revealed through their words.

As the audience caught their breath, Tricia McGavin-Fernandez of UMV took the mic to share some welcoming comments along with letting everyone know more about the group and all the work they do to benefit those they serve. She followed this with introductions of Mike Cirelli of U-W and “Just Greg” Corbin of PYPM who co-hosted the Mock Poetry Slam titled, “This is Slam” in which participating Poets an opportunity to “spit” their words into a panel of judges who sought to determine which poem touched their sensory attributes connecting the body, mind, and spirit into one entity inspired by the images and feelings shaped by the poets they hear the most. This was no easy task for the judges to perform as each poet created a world with a compulsion to be explored regardless of the fear of what might be found within oneself.

Many of the poems dealt with subject matters too many young people find themselves in. They are of abuse, rejection, pain, and other inhuman conditions inhabiting their world. For me, I felt a sadness hearing such experiences related as no one at any age should be aware of such things. Yet, I also felt a gladness these early teens were able to share their stories through their work as it gave hope their life decisions will be better ones than their parents and the cycles they find themselves won’t be visited upon their children. It also gave hope the inner most healing that is needed to occur will occur since, after all, we are all only as sick as our secrets.

There were no declared winners by the judges as it was a “Mock” competition. But, none lost including the audience who were touched by their words so freely expressed without any external restrictions. And, this is how all forms of poetry should be as it allows both the poets and the listeners to become a part of the work and continue the words in their lives.

The Mock Slam was followed by a Spoken Word Theatrical performance titled, “Daddy Dress Up” given by its author Thiahera Nurse. The combination of the poetic form with theatrical techniques complimented each other as Ms. Nurse moved not only her words but the emotions of all who heard them. This was done through the exploration of many characters who each contained individualistic points of view. One in particularly compelling was her portrayal of a boy who winds up beating his girlfriend due to his sexual frustration. This graphic depiction brought a reality to the piece few other theatrical presentations can and this made the entire performance even more impressive.

This was followed by the featured guest Rachel McKibbens who read from her book titled, “Pink Elephant.” Her words mixed pain and laughter in a bowl full of ingredients designed to make everything come out raw. In this rawness, we are able to see ourselves unencumbered by the falsities we delude our lives with as we endeavor to become pleasing denizens of the world around us. We refuse to see the pink elephants in the rooms of our subconscious until we are shown such mirrors Ms. McKibbons place before us. This is something all forms of poetry does but it seems Slam Poetry does so more effectively than most. I don’t know why this seems to be so. But, it does.

The festival ended with some appreciative closing remarks given by Ms. McGarvin-Fernandez and with many of the poets coming on stage to share some improvisational poetry with one another. This joyous celebration proved to be a wonderful finale as it brought the audience further into the creative world of the poets. Everyone left the theater eagerly awaiting Slamfest 2011. Those who supported the festival included Merchants such as “People Like Me” along with artists Rachel Burke who conceptualized the Poster Art and David Ayllon who provided the illustration. You’ll find more photographs in The Forwardian Arts Society Pocono Community Theater 2010 Gallery at www.myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

Urban Word (U-W) NYC is based in New York City, NY with Michael Cirelli serving as its Executive Director and consists of Thiahera Nurse, Ceez, and Carvens Lissaint. The group provides free, safe, and uncensored writing and performance opportunities for NYC teens. In addition to poetry, U-W also provides educational programs exploring other literary arts such as journalism and creative writing. The group was featured in Russell Simon’s HBO Documentary titled, “Brave New Voices.”

The Philadelphia Youth Poetry Movement (PYPM) in based in Philadelphia, PA which was founded by “Just Greg” Corbin and consist of Anwar Jabqari, Mayra Williams, and Kavi Marque. The group is part of a New Beginnings Program to help young people find their voice through the poetic form while promoting social change and enhancing positive self-esteem. They have performed at the White House for President Obama and his family.

Urban Mountain Voices (UMV) is based in The Monroe County, PA area (aka the Poconos) and consists of Nessa Bell, Ryan Bernard, Blair Thomas, Malcolm Tinglin, Blake Quinn, Carl Watts, and KJ Wilson. The group provides young people an opportunity to express themselves in an open and honest manner through the medium. The group meets every Friday beginning at 4:30pm on the East Stroudsburg University (ESU) of PA Campus and welcomes young people between the ages of 13-20 regardless of their race, gender, sexual orientation, religious affiliation, or academic standing.

Along with special community events such as Slamfest, The Pocono Community Theater in East Stroudsburg, PA presents independent and foreign films not commonly shown in larger theater complexes. Future events to be presented at The Pocono Community Theater include a Film and Chat Gathering hosted by The Forwardian Arts Society Friday May 7th. Please Contact The Pocono Community Theater at 570-421-3456 for more information.

Contact information of those mentioned in this article include The Pocono Community Theater at www.poconocommunitytheater.org, Rachel McKibbens at www.rachelmckibbens.com, Urban Word NYC (UW) at www.urbanwordnyc.org, The Philadelphia Youth Poetry Movement (PYPM) at www.phillyyouthpoet.org, and Urban Mountain Voices at www.urbanmountainvoices.org, Cool DJ Adverb at CoolDJAdverb@gmail.com, Brave New Voices at www.hbo.com, People Like Me at www.PeopleLikeMeshop.com, and The Forwardian Arts Society at www.TheForwardianArtsSociety.com