MOVE OVER Xanadu! There's a new Skatepark in town!

OH MAN!

All this cold and snow makes me crave for warmer weather so I can bike, walk and enjoy not freezing my toes off! Which is why I'm SOOO excited about the start of the South Side Greenway project this year. The city has been working with the community for a while now and the ground breaking will start this summer.

In addition to the Greenway itself, the construction of a SKATE PLAZA is in the works!

http://www.bethlehem-pa.gov/feature/greenway/index.htm

An early rendering can be seen on the city website, but if you really want the up-to-date skinny, make it over to the Ice House this Saturday for a SKATE PLAZA presentation at 8PM. Homebase Skate Shop on 4th St. has been spearheading the effort to make the skate park a reality. They are hosting a movie premiere, live music and a music video premiere (featuring our friends at Eskandalo Hair Salon) all on Saturday. There is a $5 donation entry fee at the door all benefiting the Bethlehem SKATE PLAZA. Get there early for a good seat!

Directions and updates can be found on http://www.homebase610.com/ .

There's a growth on the SouthSide!!!

Economic growth!

City leaders are focusing on expanding revitalization momentum into the south side of the city. We can't wait to welcome Greekers Restaurant, courtesy of Billy Kounoupis of Billy's Downtown and an undisclosed new restaurant/lounge slated to inhabit the old UCC church on 4th. WFMZ's Jaccii Farris talks to Mayor Callahan and others about the state of southern Bethlehem in this online video expose.

read more digg story

Seamsters United! Fashion and Art Show

Pssst! I've got a secret.....the most original, free form, creative art gatherings are going on right here on the SouthSide. DUH! That's no secret!

Last night, I was at "Seamsters United!", an art and fashion show at the Secret Art Space.

Local designers displayed melded blazers with 29 pockets, Sparkle-tards and dresses made with memories of traveling the country, and handmade animal hats that could make any wearer roar! It's really the artists that make the Secret Art Space so incredible. They create and display when and where they want to, making these gatherings all the more surprising!







Along with the amazing visual art, the local band BCDE played world music inspired rhythms. The band includes Renee on tablas, Dave on keyboard, Erik on guitar and Matt on drums. I've heard BCDE a number of times and they are an act NOT TO BE MISSED! They are playing this Friday, January 23rd, at the Hard Bean Cafe on 3rd St. The show starts at 9pm. Get there early!



So keep an ear to the ground and stroll around the SouthSide to find out when the next Secret Art Space gathering will be let out!

Big Sale Day

I'm going to type quick because things are hopping here...It's the first day of our yearly BIG BIG sale at Clothesline Organics. Come on by and see what's going on. Women, men's and baby pieces are as low as $7! Good times had by all...

Dear roads department,

Thanks for getting the holiday lights and trees up and on early this year!!

Any chance we can change the wording on the blinking road sign from "3rd street closed ahead" to maybe "biz district open during road work" Insert smile and wink here!

Obama-mania!

In recognition of the upcoming Presidential Inauguration, the front window at Home & Planet is displaying the man himself, a seashell Barack Obama!

Our President Elect is flanked by one of his many inspirational quotes, "It's about whether this nation is going to live up to its founding promise of equality by treating all of its citizens with dignity and respect."

Thanks to local artist, Pasco Ruggiero, the spirit of CHANGE is in South Bethlehem.

SouthSide Craftiness!

Homebase Skate Shop is up to its ears in one-of-a-kind, hand-painted furniture! Rabbit, the featured artist, knocks any preconceived notions of furniture design away with her unique style. From deer encrusted dressers to owl covered high chairs, there is something for everyone, even glittery PBR candles. This is a show NOT TO BE MISSED!

Show runs through Feb.2, 2009.

Homebase Skateshop
14 W. 4th St
Southside Bethlehem
http://www.homebase610.com/

SouthSides' Growing

3rd Street businesses are very pleased to welcome our two newest neighbors -- Billy's Diner located in the old Chicken and Ribs building and Schuze (cute name) located in the old Bliss space...Hopefully, both businesses should be open soon....we'll keep you posted...And, speaking of Chicken and Ribs...guess who got the large wooden chicken and hog signs...enough said, but watch Home & Planet over the next few months for a totally new use for a neighborhood icon.