James Durbin Goes Home On American Idol!

Looks like the Daughtry curse claimed James Durbin tonight.  I am shocked.  After delivering too solid performances last night and being a front-runner most of the season I did not expect this.  James said he had a feeling today.  I thought James would win 😦

Scotty, Lauren and Haley will advance toward the finale. 

Performances tonight were a videos by Gaga and Steve Tyler and live performances by Enrique Iglesias and Jordin Sparks.

My only consolation is that James will have the success that Chris Daughtry has had.  I would pay good money to attend a James Durbin concert.

James you are amazing and I know you will do great things.  Rock on!

Lancaster Parking Authority Beefs Up Security With Bike Patrols And Saves Money

It is always nice to see an improvement in service while reducing costs.  The Lancaster Parking Authority has done just that by replacing security details patrolling the parking garages in center city by car with security officers on bicycles.  It is felt that the officers on bicycles are highly visible and approachable if help is needed by a customer.

The reason for this change was not due to any increased criminal activity.  The change was made to improve customer service and safety.  The side benefit is saving the Parking Authority money.  The city has contracted these services through Allied Barton.  The decision to go with Allied Barton was made using advice from Lancaster PD, Franklin & Marshall College and Lancaster General Hospital, as well as the Parking Authority.

Two officers were contracted for $70,000 through Allied Barton and will work 11 hours shifts riding around downtown Lancaster’s five garages, being highly visible in their yellow shirts.  The security officers carry handcuffs and mace.  In the event backup is needed, the Parking Authority bike officers will contact the James Street Improvement District bicycle ambassadors as first responders.  City police are only contacted as needed.  The James Street Improvement District already uses Allied Barton for their bicycle ambassador program.

This program will save the Parking Authority $10,000 to $20,000 per year by substituting Allied Barton staff for Parking Authority staff.  Allied Barton specializes in security and the Parking Authority specializes in parking cars so the change makes sense.  It is expected that the new bike team will put 40 miles per day on their bikes while patrolling.

If you want to learn more about Lancaster’s James Street Improvement District Ambassador program click here: http://www.jsidlancaster.org/bikesquad.cfm

To learn more about the Lancaster Parking Authority, click here:  http://lancasterparkingauthority.com/

Friends Of Pottstown Public Education Seek Your Vote On May 17th

A group of five dedicated people are seeking your vote in the Pennsylvania Primary Election next Tuesday, May 17th.  Michele Pargeon, Amy Bathurst Francis, Mary-Beth Lydon, Andrew Kefer and Judyth Zahora are running as a team for election to the Pottstown School Board.

Their motto, “A New Perspective Built On Experience” means this group of candidates supports public education aka the Pottstown School District.  Listening, making children the first priority, making sure good teachers are fairly paid, ensuring our schools are safe, ensuring the school district has the tools it needs to get the job done, understanding education and giving taxpayers, parents and children a strong voice are what this group will bring to the table.

These people recognize that the Pottstown School District and the Borough of Pottstown are linked and must work together for economic development and the betterment of our community.  If one sneezes the other caches cold.  The borough and school district must work together if Pottstown is to turn the corner.  This group will ensure that the forward momentum in an era of new found cooperation between the borough and school district continues.

The right team for Pottstown School Board!

Sixth Ward Councilor Jody Rhoads Running For Re-election – May 17, 2011

The Pennsylvania Primary Election will take place next week on Tuesday, May 17th.  “Man of the people” Jody Rhoads is running for re-election as Sixth Ward Councilor.  Jody is asking Sixth Ward residents for their vote on Tuesday.

As your Councilman I

1. voted against 3 consecutive yearly tax increases
2. speak up and ask the hard questions
3. fight for the rights of ALL Pottstown residents
4. helped re-write and adopt a new and friendlier tree ordinance which eliminated the dysfunctional Tree Commission
5. worked to get railroad crossings repaired on a heavily traveled road in the east end of Pottstown
6. was the ONLY Councilman who voted against top administrative pay raises
7. have helped scores of residents around town with their problems and concerns

                                                                    Fight When You’re Right!