Tilting At Windmills

In The Christmas Spirit?

2011-12-20T20:10:00.005-05:00

Here it is less than a week from Christmas, but it doesn't seem like a time of good cheer and Brotherly Love.

Last Sunday evening I did two loads of laundry in the Cedar View Apartments laundry room. When I first arrived there were two other residents doing laundry but both already had their clothes in the dryers. So before long I was all alone with my book and my thoughts.

It takes about 30 minutes for the wash and another 45 minutes for the dryer. So I was in the laundry less than an hour and a half.

Once my clothes were dry, I folded my stuff and put them in my laundry cart. The shirts that needed to go on hangers were placed on the cart (1 of 2) that are provided by Cedar View which have a bar for hanging stuff.

I told myself, at some point, not to go off and forget the hanging stuff. The hanging stuff was five, maybe six of my best and most favorite shirts. And yes, having turned my back to the hanging stuff, I proceeded to push my laundry cart to my apartment, sans shirts.

It was close to eleven o'clock, so I did not put my laundry away right away. Perhaps if I had I would have realized that I did not bring up my shirts. Those shirts were the best and my most favorites as I mentioned earlier.

It was not until Thursday morning when I went to the closet for one of my favorite shirts, that I realized that none of them were hanging there. In a panic, I rushed down to the laundry room, but, alas, too late!

My best and my most favorite shirts were not there.

Here we need some explanation: It is traditional in the apartment that when someone wishes to give away any item of clothing or wishes to dispose of a deceased spouses things, they are hung up in the laundry room on a rack behind the door. It is generally understood that anyone can help themselves to what ever is hanging behind the door. Apparently, someone moved my shirts to the coat rack behind the door.

Fair enough! I made a stupid mistake; my memory is not what it used to be. I foolishly and irresponsibly failed to get home with my best and my most favorite shirts. It should not have been a surprise that they were not there when I went looking for them. But there was still hope!

I posted a notice on the bulletin board that I had blundered and left my best and my most favorite shirts in the laundry room by mistake. My feverant hope was that some kind neighbor had them and I could get them back.

As President of the Senior Citizens Club I was the Master of Ceremonies, as usual, and took the opportunity to inform all 62 residents and guest in attendance of my plight. So the word was out and I waited and I waited for someone to return my best and my most favorite shirts.

Did not happen. No happy ending here!

This could be the end of the story; never knowing what happened to my best and my most favorite shirts.

But wait, I got a phone call. Someone witnessed the shirts being put into a big black garbage bag and being disposed of in the dumpster. Wait, who would do such a thing? The Goodwill would have been better than the dumpster. The culprit?

Cedar View Apartments Maintenance Personnel, that's Who!

I am sure that I will be informed that it is POLICY and that no one did anything wrong.

Sheeez! One of the shirts was monogrammed "EHC". How much time would it have taken to check?

Oh Well! Only I am to blame! I got old; I didn't want to get old; and I surely did not want to become forgetful; dare I use the word senile? But it happened in spite of my not wanting it too.

The question is; does the apartment management need to be a little more cautious knowing they are dealing with elderly individuals who sometimes need help and protection. Shouldn't they try a little harder before taking such drastic measures? Where is the empathy, the caring attitude?

They threw out my best and my most favorite shirts and I am going to find it hard to forgive them!

And so it goes...

Forty-Three Hours Without Electricity

2011-11-01T18:07:00.003-04:00

Perfect Storm", In October; possibly!

We were all warned of a terrible Nor'easter headed our way. I am sure that there were those usual people that run to the store and stock up on milk, bread and whatever they think of as essentials in their household. Me? I headed for the beer store. Can you imagine a weekend of football without adequate supplies of beer and chips?

I got back home in time for the Penn State Kickoff, but there was no Kickoff. Well that is to say that Penn State and Illinois did in fact begin the game on time, but I did not have electricity. My t.v. screen was a big, flat, black screen. Oh No! How could this be?

If only I had known. I picked up the latest novel from my favorite aurthor; James Lee Burke; Feast Day of Fools. Before long, I was in total darkness. I could hear my neighbors out in the hall having a great time. Bear in mind that we have emergency lighting in the hallways, but not in the apartments. The emergency generators do not provide heat or the ability to cook. They are primarily there to assist in evacuating the building, which we should have been doing. Any excuse for a party! I reside in a ten story high rise for elderly men and women over age 62. I am on the eighth floor which has the reputation as the party floor. Tonight things were lively, all my neighbors huddled around a light near the elevators.

I stayed home trying to read by flashlight.

Cedar Creek Gardens

2011-07-30T12:26:00.000-04:00

While I entitled this article as Cedar Creek Gardens, the county prefers Cedarbrook Gardens. Not sure why. The garden plots are located in Cedar Creek Parkway West. So it stands to reason the they should be known as Cedar Creek Gardens.

All of the county complexes in the general area are named after Cedar Creek, the creek that runs through all the county land just west of Dorney Park. There is the Cedarbrook Nursing Home, Cedar View Apartments, Cedar Village Apartments, etc.

Be that as it may, I recently visited the Cedar Creek Gardens to observe the progress of the county and to see the many successful garden plots that are being lovingly attended to by conscientious gardeners. I was pleasantly surprised.

The gardens that are being attended look great. The various vegetables being grown are looking very good. Many of the abandoned plots have been cleaned up by the county Parks Department and are ready for planting, although the planting season has pretty much ended. This is not to place blame on anyone. The county had to take cautious steps when reclaiming unused plots that had been paid for. Registered letters had to be sent and acknowledged. The county had to determine the intentions of the renters. It is a slow process carefully executed to avoid problems or lawsuits.

But progress is being made which will benefit those on the waiting list, next spring.

To show the progress and the state of the garden plots, both attended and unattended, I took some new photos:

Much Progress, but a few more to deal with.

And so it goes...

Mea culpa

2011-05-15T15:15:00.009-04:00

In early March 2011, I corresponded with several people with Lehigh County about obtaining a garden plot at Cedar Creek Gardens, part of a county project that is more than twenty years old. I was informed that all plots were taken and that I would be placed on a waiting list.

In mid April I toured the garden plots and was astounded by the general condition. I asked for and received a copy of the rules in early May. About the same time there was a newspaper article that indicated that the county was taking action to clean up both county supported garden locations (Jordan Creek and Cedar Creek).

In an earlier post I mentioned county employees; Glen Solt, Jeff Zehr and Kathy Borger, who are all associated with the Bureau of Agricultural Land Preservation. This office just took over control of the garden plots in January so it was inappropriate of me to hold them accountable. For the past twenty or so years the Bureau of Solid Waste was responsible for oversight of this program. Apparently the county realized that it was being mismanaged and took steps to improve the situation. Messrs. Solt, Zehr and Boger have all pledged to clean things up and to move forward with rules and regulations enforced. I have spoken with Glen Solt and Kathy Borger and believe that we will see vast improvement soon!

A copy of the "Community Garden Plot Program Rules" an be viewed here:
Garden Plot Rules

A copy of the layout for Cedar Creek (Cedarbrook) Garden Plots can be viewed here. Those with yellow inside the plot do not show signs of activity as of this date.
Garden Plot Layout

Photographs taken recently of the various garden plots (May 2011) follow:

And so it goes...

Lehigh County Garden Plots

2011-05-05T22:19:00.003-04:00

On March 13, 2011, I began a search of the Lehigh County web site seeking information on the County's Garden Plot Program. I could not find any mention of the program anywhere on the site. So I sent an e-mail to Lehigh County Commissioner Percy Dougherty, a friend.

He sent an e-mail on March 13, to Glen Solt, Director of General Services for Lehigh County. He, in turn, sent an e-mail to Jeff Zehr, who is in charge of the Farmland Preservation Department. Jeff Zehr made contact with Kathy Borger, Garden Plot Program Administrator.

On March 23, 2011, I received a response from Kathy Borger informing me that no garden plots were available. She promised to place me on a waiting list.

Having driven through the area where the Garden Plots are located (Cedar Creek Parkway West), I took note that many did not seem to have been worked in several years. It also appeared that some renters may have had more than one plot. However, this is just supposition on my part. The area looked somewhat like a junk yard. Sheds, drums, discarded furniture, etc.

My curiosity was aroused. It seems that once you sign up for a garden plot, it is yours for life. I am 75 years of age and I am on a 'waiting list', apparently waiting for someone to die or get so old that they can no longer take care of a garden. Somehow this does not seem right.

On April 25th, I sent Kathy Borger a follow-up e-mail. In that e-mail I asked her to provide me with the following:

I would like to request that you provide me with a copy of the County Policy Statement with respect to the Garden plots at Cedar Parkway West. Additionally, I would appreciate copies of any Rules and Regulations and/or Guidelines with respect to the garden plots at Cedar Parkway West.

While I acknowledge that all plots are currently assigned, can you provide me information on when they were assigned and to whom?, and when these assignments expire, if in fact they do.

Any information you can supply me with that would shed light on the policies, procedures and oversight of the garden plots would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you for your attention to this matter.

As of today, May 5, 2011, I have not received a response from her.

Yet on May 4, 2011, the Morning Call carried an article byline: Arlene Martinez, that proclaims that the County informed the renters of garden plots in Jordan Creek Parkway that it was time to clean up their plots and that existing rules would be enforced. It also indicated that there would be a meeting with renters of plots in Cedar Creek Parkway West at a future date to discuss the rules to insure compliance.

What is one to make of this?

And so it goes...

Finally, Lehigh County Does the Right Thing

2010-06-09T15:38:00.001-04:00

Recently Lehigh County issued checks to Cedar View residents to reimburse them for damage done to their cars when severe storms blew through the Valley.

The tenants cars were parked in Reserved spaces near the apartment building when the the high winds from the storm blew rocks off the roof of the building. These very small rocks have very sharp edges and when driven by high winds, they were capable of breaking windows. In the first incidence, at least seven cars were damaged; six or so in the next storm. Then the county had excess stones removed from the roof, and yet a third storm did further damage to about five cars.

Initially, the county chose not to take any action; simply stonewalling the tenants and making reference to an "Act of God". But common sense prevailed and victims of the first two incidences were reimbursed. IF the tenants involved in the most recent incidence have not received reimbursement, I am sure it will be forthcoming soon.

And so it goes...

The Honeymoon Is Over!

2010-01-11T12:28:00.000-05:00

Well, it is apparent that the honeymoon is over with respect to the new caterer; "Meals On Wheels." Yep, six months into the new contract and the bloom is off the rose. Today, Monday, January 11th, the vegetable lasagna with marinarar sauce was not all that great. The pasta was hard and the marinarar sauce had dried out. Many of the senior citizens did not finish their meal and the complaints were loud and there were many that were dissatisfied. Bad enough that the lasagna was not edible, the only other vegetable was carrotts. No potatoes, no filling; nothing.

Partly responsible is that the meal must be delivered hot and that meal is delivered at 9:30 A.M. The meal sits for two hours over a steam warmer getting drier and drier. The same thing happened on Friday. On Friday the meal was breaded fish. It was so hard many of the elderly could not cut it with a knife. Some tried picking it up and biting it, but that didn't woek out too well either (false teeth).

Somehow, someone has got to come up with a solution to the problem. We usually ask for extra sauce when the meal calls for sauce, but generally this request is ignored or refused. There is a noticible drop off in lunch attendance. If meals continue to be served that are as hard as rocks, this trend will continue.

And so it goes!

Smoking Policy

2009-11-05T14:11:00.002-05:00

No the Cedar View "Smoking Policy" has not changed even though the weather certainly is. So what does that mean for the residents that smoke and choose not to quit inspite of the county's position that smoking is bad for your health. I have news for the Administrators of Lehigh County government; you can not legistrate people's habits or desires.

Placing a smoking area on the side of a road where smokers are exposed to all kinds of weather is inhumane. The No-Smoking policy isd most likely unconstitutional and should have been challenged at the very ealiest opportunity. It may not be too late to mount a challenge.

In the meantime, the fancy pavillion that stands just west of the main building sits vacant and forelorne, having been shut down for the winter. So why couldn't smokers take refuge under the pavillion when it is not in use? Good question? Stapling a little plastic along a small stretch of the pavillion would not only put a roof over the smoker's heads, but would provide a wind break as well.

It is not like the county could do better, they could, but they wont.

And so it goes...

Viewer Comments on various postings

2009-08-31T21:29:00.005-04:00

An anonymous comment was made to a post about the new caterer which was posted on August 10, 2009. I normally do not allow anonymous comments, but decided to allow this one to make the point that people that hide behind anonymity will not be heard. You can read the comment and my response by going to the original August 10th post.

One other anonymous comment was made recently. This one was in reference to the deplorable situation with the "N0-Smoking" Policy. The reader made the point that Cedar View has a pavilion which provides some modicum of protection from the elements and the Pavilion only gets occasional use and mostly in the summer months. The reader suggested that a small portion of the pavilion be utilized for residents that smoke. This seems to me to be a reasonable compromise between the tenants that smoke and the 7th street bureaucracy,

The current treatment of smoker's is absolutely inhumane and the County administrators should be ashamed of themselves. What ever happened to empathy and concern for one's fellow man?

We should have challenged the new "No-Smoking" policy when it was first enacted; make that, when it was shoved down our throats.

When I hit the lottery I am going to make challenging the legality and constitutionality of the policy one of my first actions. Problem is; I have never in my life purchased a lottery ticket and I am not going to start now.

Maybe the ALCU would be interesting in pursuing action on behalf of the smoking residents. Something to think about.

And so it goes...

Revisiting Bag Suppers

2009-08-21T09:29:00.006-04:00

You may recall that this is an issue that came up before when the administrators made an attempt at cutting back on the number of bag suppers that the Senior Center at Cedar View receives. For some time 10 bag suppers have been delivered with the hot lunch, which allowed those that did not have a way to get to a grocery or could not afford groceries to have a sandwich and snack before retiring. The county wanted to reduce the meals to five without regard to need. After the Seniors protested loudly, the county backed down.

When we were receiving 10 bag supers the average turnout was twenty-five or less. Yesterday we ordered 47 hot lunches, today the number of meals ordered is 52. We have doubled in the number of participants, yet we are still restricted to 10 bag suppers. When an attempt was made to increase the number of bag suppers to 15, the answer was a very hasty NO! The county claims they don't have the money. Yes, we all know that times are tough and that our representatives at the State level have not passed a budget but...the system is arbitrary and the number of bag supers, now set at ten has nothing to do with need. It never did. Ten bag supers on a first come first served basis; you have got to be kidding me!

The county made a feeble attempt last year to determine actual need. They lied to the Seniors as to the purpose of the survey, afraid the results might be swayed if the elderly citizens knew why the survey was taken. They had hoped to prove that only 5 bag supers was adequate, but apparently the surveyed failed to back up their desires so we never heard about it again.

A true unbiased survey is needed desperately. With more than fifty participants in the meal program, the county needs to determine by name who is entitled and who is not. Then they need to deliver the proper number of bag suppers on a day to day basis.

As it is now, some that are needy of a bag super go home without while a perfectly healthy, mobile individual eats a bag super. Are the Senior Centers getting any help with this? NO!

But whether we determine the proper number and know who should get a bag super, is immaterial if the county is going to cry poor-mouth. The administrators need to think in terms of their own Mother's or Grandmothers...would they want their Mother or Grandmother to go to bed hungry every night? If it were your Mother, would you stand by and let her go to bed crying from hunger?

We are dealing with elderly people here. Many have no close relatives, no transportation, and do not cook. Some tenants stoves have been disconnected because it would be hazardous for them to attempt to operate them.

This is not the same as missing bread plates. That is a minor issue. Refusing to provide food to the elderly that are in need is criminal. Wake up people, this is serious.

Apparently it is time for me to visit the Lehigh County Commissioners. When is the next meeting?

And so it goes...

Final Post for New Caterer

2009-08-14T09:15:00.003-04:00

Unless something bizarre happens this will be my final post regarding our new caterer, Meals on Wheels of Northampton County, Inc.

The Yankee pot roast on Wednesday was to die for. I did not believe that they could top it, but on Thursday came pork chops. The pork chops were exquisite.

Although we have not yet sampled all of the meals in the five week rotation, there is no reason to believe that the meals will be less than excellent, as they have been to date.

Most of the minor logistics problems have been worked out. The caterer has been very cooperative and has made an effort to meet our needs. So, all in all, things are going well.

There are only two issues remaining and apparently neither is going to change for the forseeable future. The first unsolvable issue is the delivery of milk in 1/2 gallon jugs. We are informed that State regulations allow for the delivery of milk in this fashion. While that may be true, because they can does not neceesarily mean they should. Can it really be cheaper to send 1/2 gallon jusgs plus 40 extra coffee cups each day than to deliver milk in 1/2 pint containers. It is not like they didn't have milk in 1/2 pint containers; they deliver our bag suppers which contain 1/2 pints of milk. All of the in home deliveries include milk in 1/2 pint containers. So what is the big deal?

The other issue is the County Administrators determined if they did not provide bread plates it would cut cost. I appreciate that cost containment in todays economic enviornment is important, but eliminating bread plates is a token effort at best. No doubt each department had to show they were cutting cost and for the Senior Center, The administrators chose bread plates. It is all for show and nothing substantial has been accomplished.

And so it goes...

New Caterer - Day 7

2009-08-11T12:56:00.003-04:00

Day 7 started out okay, or at least it seemed that way.

The menu called for garlic bread, but what we got was dinner rolls. However, since we had ordered 36 meals, it seemed odd that we got only 32 rolls. We didn't fare nearly as well with the butter; only 21 servings of butter.

After speaking with the driver on Monday, the caterer began labeling the food containers, which was a big help.

Milk continues to be delivered in 1/2 gallon containers. They sent five oz juice cups yesterday, perhaps after reading this blog. Sent those cups back today as the requirement is that 8 oz of milk be served to every participant. So we are using coffee cups. Guess that is the way the caterer wants it. Not sure why? It is not like they didn't have access to pint containers of milk. All of the Meals on Wheels participants get there milk in pint containers. What is the big deal?

We complained earlier about the flimsy plates they sent us and shortly thereafter they sent sturdier, larger plates. Today, they sent the old flimsy plates once again. Why would they accommodate a request in response to a complaint and then reverse themselves?

They continue to allow us to keep one cooler overnight, but they stopped putting ice packs in the cooler. Again, why respond to a request if it doesn't last more than a day?

Makes one think that someone new is preparing our delivery each day. I doubt that is the case, but the one consistent thing so far is inconsistency.

And so it goes...

New Caterer - Day 6

2009-08-10T16:00:00.000-04:00

Food was very good. Everyone enjoyed the chicken and bread stuffing with spinich.

However, Milk still comes in half gallon jugs. They did send a package of 5 oz juice cups marked use for milk. The problem of course is that the Portion Control sheets call for 8 oz of milk, so the cups are useless. If they don't provide cold cups we will continue to use coffee cups.

They also sent two loaves of bread as called for, but failed to send butter.

They did agree to leave one of the coolers with us overnight, so now we can keep the bag suppers (take home meal) in the cooler until after lunch. At one time they were including ice packs in the cooler but that stopped. Not sure why?

Still no bread plates. The County Administrators are going to fight for this savings. Guess we will have to supply our own bread plates and possibly a glass for our milk, just like we supply silverware.

And so it goes...

New Caterer = Day 5

2009-08-07T14:46:00.002-04:00

Well here it is the end of the first week with the new caterer. For the most part things have gone well.

The food has been good and, no doubt healthy. Just one problem has developed. The delivery driver is coming so early in the morning that the food is drying out in the steam warmers. He usually arrives at 9:30 p.m. or shortly thereafter. That means that the food is on the steam warmers for more than two hours. Some foods are over cooking or drying out. A later delivery would be helpful, if possible.

The caterer has apparently worked out the problem with the coolers. They leave the one that contains the bag suppers and deliver non perishables in a box. The last several days they have left one cooler and taken one with them.

We are still getting milk in 1/2 gallon jugs. Not sure why! They haven't yet acknowledged that if they send milk in jugs they must supply cold cups. We need cold cups or we need to have the milk in 1/2 pint cartons. I am sure that the jugs are considered a cost saver, but they fail to take into consideration that must provide a vessel to drink out of. Surely they don't expect us to pass the jug like one would pass a jug of moon shine.

It should be noted that the new caterer is serving fish every Friday as a concession to the Catholics, which is find with those of other denominations as fish is good for you. The challenge is have different fish each Friday and not the same old white fish. Time will tell.

And so it goes...

New Caterer - Day 4

2009-08-06T12:27:00.008-04:00

Thursday, Day 4 for the new Caterer.

Earlier in the week I made a suggestion that the caterer give us some indication of what is in each pan. Apparently they do not read my blog as the pans are placed in the steamers helter-skelter. We have to open a small hole in the foil covering each pan in order to determine its contents. Invariably this requires the shifting of the pans so that the meat is on the left, the sauce or gravy in the center and the veggies on the right.

.This morning the driver left one cooler with bag suppers. Most likely this was due to there not being anyone in the kitchen when he arrived. He had indicated yesterday that he was not allowed to put stuff in our refrigerator. Worked out great for us as we were able to serve the bag suppers right out of the cooler the way it should be. I indicated before that they need additional coolers so that the milk and bag suppers do not have to transferred to a refrigerator but can be served directly from the cooler.

We did receive on package o dinner plates and they were larger and more sturdy than the ones initially supplied. So they are listening.

We were suppose to have baked Ziti today, but the Chef mistakenly used the Rotini pasta we were suppose to get tomorrow. Not a big deal and we were all willing to let it slide.

In addition to Rotini noodles we were served two of the biggest meat balls I have ever seen. The side dish was steamed cauliflower and the meal was quite tasty and very filling.

For some reason they sent us 3 @ 1/2 gallon milk jugs and once again we did not have any cups to serve it in. Last time they sent jugs of milk we used coffee cups, but we didn't have enough coffee cups for coffee and milk. Seems the new caterer is a bit stingy with supplies. The cubboard is quite bear. I am at a loss to understand why they would send milk in 1/2 gallon containers, but if it persist then they are going to have to supply us with cold cups to serve it in.

Apparently the county has decided to take a stand on the bread plates. Seems kinda silly to me, but the county is claiming "hand to poor mouth". The Center Manager made a speech the other day about our not getting bread plates and that we were just going to have to make do. Things are tough all over, she said, mouthing the words provided by the administrators.

And so it goes...

New Caterer - Day 3

2009-08-06T10:41:00.002-04:00

Wednesday, August 5, 2009. Day 3 for the new caterer. Upon delivery, the driver brought two large pans of food and one small pan. They did not send a lid, so the third warmer was half open and steam was rising out of one end, hot enough to scald skin. Didn't they realize that there would be an open end? The problem was solved by placing an empty pan, left over from Tuesday, in the gap. The only reason we had an empty pan was the driver had failed to take them with him that morning; an oversight that saved us.

The cold stuff, milk desert, bread and butter were in one cooler and the bag suppers were in another. They are still using gel packs to cool the food. The driver waited while the coolers were unloaded into the refrigerator and left with the coolers. It would be so much easier if they had four coolers. That way they could leave two eliminating the necessity of unloading them only to serve them a short time later. The milk was delivered in 1/2 pint cartons much to our relief.

The menu today was roasted turkey breast, gravy, bread stuffing and Italian blend veggies. Desert was two chocolate chip cookies. There was virtually no gravy. Hints of gravy was in the turkey pan, but insufficient even for the turkey. The bread stuffing was dry and brittle at the edges and no gravy to put over it. While the meal was good, the absence of gravy spoiled it. Had they sent gravy in another small pan, it would have solved all our problems. We would have had gravy and a pan to fill the gap. Do you suppose they forgot the gravy?

Problems are being addressed, but we are still working out the obvious kinks.

And so it goes...

New Caterer - Day 2

2009-08-04T16:10:00.005-04:00

Tuesday, August 4th, the second day with the new caterer. The meal was stuffed green peppers with corn and mixed vegetables. It was very good. It does not appear that the food is going to be an issue.

When the food delivery guy arrived with the hot food and the cold food, there was an immediate problem. He had three large pans and two small pans of hot food. The Center only has three steam warmers. There is a stove in the kitchen, however the Center staff is not suppose to use it. There didn't seem to be any choice for to leave it out at room temperature would leave no option but to throw it away and the someone would go hungry.

We then opened the two small coolers (they are almost too small to hold the food that needs to be kept cold) to learn that they had added small plastic cooling jugs in an attempt to keep the food cold. Several were leaking purple stuff all over the packaged food. Everything was in plastic bags so no real harm done.

But then the delivery guy stated we would have to empty the coolers so he could take them back with him. We have always left the cold food in the coolers until we serve it. There is a need for two coolers, preferably larger ones, so that we exchange coolers each day the same a we do with the pans.

Stuffing all of the bag lunches and milk into the fridge was a real chore. Oh, by the way, the milk was delivered in 1/2 pint cartons. The caterer also sent additional coffee cups to replace those used the day before.That is a good sign that the minor problems can and will be corrected.

The menu called for everyone to get two slices of bread, but they only sent two loaves for 35 people, not nearly enough to give everyone two slices. And of course, there would not have been sufficient butter either if everyone got two. Why would the dietitian order two slices of bread but not provide butter for each slice?

Rumor has it that the caterer has agreed to search for larger, more substantial dinner plates. Time will tell. Not surprisingly there is no word yet on bread plates. Appears the County Administrators are going to sit on their high horse and stonewall the issue.

And so it goes...

New Caterer

2009-08-03T14:06:00.017-04:00

On Friday, July 30, 2009, the transition from our former caterer to a new cater took place.

The new caterer that Lehigh County signed an agreement with is Meals on Wheels of Northampton County, Inc., an independent caterer that is not affiliated with Northampton County. Meals on Wheels in Northampton County and Lehigh County are clients of the caterer.

The new menu, which is totally different from the previous menu, reads so good that you are tempted to eat the menu. The meals sound scrumptious and if the first meal served on Monday, August 3, is any example, we are going to love the new caterer.

Although the menu called for Veal cutlet, Mushroom gravy, cabbage & noodles, diced carrots, bread and an orange, the cabbage and noodles turned out to be bow-tie noodles, but no one complained if they even noticed.

So, based on a single meal, it appears that we are going to enjoy lunch from this point forward.

That is not to say that there were not some initial problems. Problems are to be expected when a new outfit comes in and attempts to do things in a similar fashion to what the client has become use to. One should not expect everything to go off without a hitch.

One of the immediate problems which is not the caterer's fault is that the County Administrators, in an attempt to hold down cost, eliminated a bread plate. Granted the cost per meal increased from $4.43 per meal to $5.00 per meal. I am not sure what the cost of a plastic bread plate is, but I can not imagine the savings is that great. Where are we to put the bread and butter when we serve it? The senior citizens already supply their own silverware, are they to bring their own bread plate too? Have you ever heard of anything so ridiculous?

As far as the caterer goes:.

1% milk has always been served in 1/2 pint cartons. The new caterer sent 3 @ 1/2 gallon milk jugs, but no cups to serve it in. While jugs of milk may be cheaper, when you have to supply cups, the savings is minimal. Did the caterer presume we would supply our own glasses/cups too?

The plastic picnic plates used by the new caterer are too small and too flimsy. While this is an obvious attempt to hold down cost, the plates will not do. They will not hold the quantity of food recommended by the dietitians and they are so flimsy that I fear someone will dump the entire contents on the floor.

One serious problem was that the milk, butter, etc., were sent in a cooler without benefit of ice. Same holds true for the bag suppers. Placing them in coolers with out ice for transport is not sufficient to keep the food sufficiently cold. This needs to change.

Just a suggestion, it would be helpful if the new caterer labeled the food that is sent in bulk containers. It would make it easier to place them in the steam warmers in their correct position, the first time.

I know that some will jump all over me for posting this to my blog before the county and the caterer have a chance to work out the kinks, but I am not being critical. I am aware that it has been only one day and one meal. I am willing to give the caterer a chance to work things out and I will report changes as they occur. I am confident that solutions will be found.

I also appreciate that we are in difficult economic times. The allotment from the State Lottery Commission did not increase just because the county's new caterer is charging more than the previous one. We all appreciate that. I get it!

But do we seriously believe that the absence of a bread plate is going to fix that? Without bread plates we put the bread on napkins. Without cups for the milk we use coffee cups. Now we are using twice as many of each every day. Does that make sense to any one?

And so it goes...

Challenger

2009-06-02T10:57:00.004-04:00

Read the narrative before viewing.

Music video featuring a special free-flying Bald Eagle named 'Challenger' (in honor of the lost space shuttle crew) cared for by the non-profit American Eagle Foundation (AEF).

He's a 'human-socialized' bird accidentally raised by the people who rescued him- after being blown from a wild Louisiana nest in a storm as a baby in the late1980s. Declared 'non-releasable' by federal and state wildlife authorities, he was trained by the AEF to perform educational free-flight demonstrations at high profile public events.

He's the first Bald Eagle in U.S. History that learned to free-fly into stadiums, arenas and ballrooms during the singing of the Star Spangled Banner. The celebrity eagle has appeared at numerous major sporting events like the World Series, Pro-Bowl, All-Star game, BCS National Championship, Fiesta Bowl, Men's Final Four, etc.

Challenger has also flown before 4 U.S. Presidents!

His life story is told in a children's storybook titled 'Challenger, America 's Favorite Eagle.'

Turn on your speakers and click on link below.

Challenger - Amazing Free-Flying Bald Eagle

Live Free - Support Our Troops

State Lottery Funds and Senior Citizens

2009-05-01T09:08:00.004-04:00

For those that may not be aware. the State of Pennsylvania has set aside monies from the State Lottery for the sole purpose of funding various Senior Citizens programs. Pennsylvania is the only state that contributes all lottery proceeds to programs that benefit the elderly.

Lottery funds are distributed by the Department of Revenue to the Departments of Aging, Transportation, and Public Welfare. Lottery funds are used to fund PACE and PACENET (low cost prescription drug programs), the Property Tax/Rent Rebate program, a free or reduced fare transit program, long term care services program, Area Agencies on Aging and full or part-time Senior Centers throughout the Commonwealth. Lottery funds help improve the quality of life for older Pennsylvanians, and the programs funded by Lottery help older residents maintain their independence.

Each year the Commonwealth issues an Economic Benefit Impact Report. The most recent report is for the fiscal year 2007-2008 ending June 30, 2008. In that year, the Lottery paid out over $1.8 Billion to winners. The Department of Aging across the state received $223.2 Million. PACE/PACENET received $278.4 Million, Transit programs received $152.0 Million, Property Tax/Rent Rebate received $244.0 Million, Long Term Care received $248.7 Million for a total amount distributed the the counties of $3.1 Billion.

For those living at Cedar View that enjoy the benefits of the Lottery by virtue of the Senior Centers, PACE and PACENET programs, free transit fares, and Rent Rebates, the monies received within Lehigh County are as follows:

Total funds received - $24.3 million

Aging & Adult Services - $4.2 million
PACE/PACENET - $5.7 million
Transit - $2.1 million
Property Tax/Rent Rebate - $6.2 million
Long Term Care - $6.2 million

Bear in mind that the funds received by the Office of Aging for Lehigh County do not necessarily represent the total revenues for that office nor does this represent their total budget. The Department of Aging receives tax dollars as well.

Monies received from the Lottery by the Office of Aging at fiscal year end 2008 from the Lottery amounted to $4.2 Million. The Office of Aging has some discretion as to how the funds are allocated. The available funds were used in the following manner:

Administration 9.80% $402k
Transportation 3.41% $140k
Environmental Modification 5.91% $242k
Assessments/Care Management 32.96% $1.4m
Protective Services/Guardianship .29% $12k
Meals/Senior Centers 14.36% $589k
Information/Referral 7.23% $296k
Purchased Direct Services 26.29% $1.1m

As we approach the end of the fiscal year 2009, it will be interesting to see how the numbers shake out.

Incidentally, Lottery prize winners in Lehigh County received a total of $45 Million in payouts for 2008. Northhampton County residents won $41.3 Million and Berks County residents $56.6 Million.

All together, the total payoff to winners, retailers, and all senior services throughout the state amounted to a whopping $3,150,935,270.

And so it goes...

What were they thinking?

2009-05-01T08:53:00.003-04:00

At a few minutes after seven this morning I, and no doubt half of the residents at Cedar View, were awakened to the sound of a noisy ditch digger. I thought to myself, why are they digging ditches this time of the morning?

It was a pleasant spring night and I and probably half the building slept with the windows open. That was a mistake! Seven in the morning, what were they thinking?

In truth, it was not a ditch digger, but it sounded like one; in actuality it was a trencher. The Parks Department of Lehigh County sent a county worker out to trench the flower beds. No problem with that, but why not nine thirty or ten in the morning? Don't these people use their heads for something other than a hat rack?

To say that county workers and their bosses lack empathy is an understatement. For many it is all about them, their duties and their schedule and most of all; their convenience. Well I can tell you for sure it wasn't convenient for me and the several hundred people that live at Cedar View. Damn inconsiderate, if you ask me.

And so it goes...

For Lack of a Popcorn Machine

2009-04-24T10:20:00.001-04:00

Recently, Cedar View Apartments, a Lehigh county owned and operated facility for independent living, installed a new Sony plasma screen television in the community room at Cedar View. It is a beauty; 54 inch screen, high definition digit images and theatre sound. It is a welcome addition to the community room and the Wii game system bowlers love it.

Did I report that residents now bowl two afternoons a week? They are having a really great time and they look forward to this outing twice a week. The Wii game system was donated by Representative Douglas Reichley and refreshments are provided by the residents through a voluntary contribution to the 'kitty'. The county spends no monies to support this activity.

With the success of the Wii game system, it seemed a natural for the introduction of a movie night for the residents. Three residents volunteered to assume responsibility for the planning and implementation of a once a month "Tuesday Night at the Movies". It was decided that there would be no cost to the residents to attend. A request was made to the county administrators for a commercial popcorn machine and some assistance with the cost of supplies, popcorn, butter and sodas.

The request for a popcorn machine, which could be had for less than $300, was turned down. Covering the monthly out of pocket cost is under review, but hopefully will not be a problem. In the meantime, the cost is being born by a few individuals.

The inaugural opening night was held on Tuesday, April 21st, without benefit of a decent popcorn popper. This introduction did not feature a movie, but a showing of "Aloha from Hawaii", Elvis Presley's live stage performance in Hawaii on January 14, 1973. It was a big hit, with close to forty residents in attendance. "Free" popcorn and soda was available to all that attended. The popcorn was popped using a single hot-air popcorn popper that produced 4 quarts every five minutes. It took forever to produce enough popcorn to go around and, of course, it was cold by the time it was served.

The next "Movie Night" is scheduled for May 19th. We will be showing "The Bucket List" with Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freemen. I am attempting to find an outside source for the funds to cover the cost of a popcorn popper before then since the county does not choose to make one available.

Keep in mind that while Cedar View is an independent living facility, there are many residents that simply can not get out to a movie. Although many residents drive, most do not and have no way to go anywhere. Besides, have you taken note of what it cost for a movie, popcorn and a soda at a movie theatre. Most of us can not afford the cost of a night out. What little we can do to make the residents lives fuller and happier is very much appreciated by the residents.

My motto: "Do what you can, while you can!"

I am trying to do my part but I could sure use some help and cooperation from Lehigh County.

And so it goes...

Elvis Is In The House

2009-04-16T13:53:00.007-04:00

Elvis was in the house recently at a concert held in the community room at Cedar View. It was a rockin night and lots of fun for all.

Hunka, hunka, burning love!

And so it goes...

Update to Recent Events

2009-04-02T14:27:00.001-04:00

I recently made comments on several issues involving the Cedar View Senior Center. It is time to revisit those items and determine where we stand at this point in time.

Back on February 26th I wrote a lengthy piece on "bag suppers" and the "Risk Assessment Analysis. Lehigh County Government Administrators wanted to reduce the number of bag suppers arbitrarily in the belief that it would reduce cost. No thought was given to the affect this would have on the senior citizens that depend on the bag suppers for nutrition. They backed off this position after I posted scathing comments on this blog and indicated they would do a "Risk Assessment Analysis" to determine which of the senior citizens would qualify for a bag supper.

They did have all participating senior citizens fill out a form, but they were less than forthcoming about the purpose of the form. Presumably a true and honest risk appraisal might not accomplish the intent; i.e., to reduce the number of daily bag suppers, so they misled the senior citizens as to the true purpose of the form. Well, to date we have not heard anything further about the "Risk Assessment Analysis" so, either it fell by the wayside or it did not accomplish the intended task.

About March 19th I wrote about the 1998 posting that used insulting language to inform the clientele that the Senior center was not a soup kitchen and that they could not take food off the premises. The poster, or a similar one remains on the bulletin board. However, the issue of stopping "Take Home" meals was also discussed. No less than three Senior Center managers were told that "take Home" meals would be suspended when the current supply of available food containers was depleted. Following my blog post, the administrators on 7th street claimed it was a misunderstanding and a fresh supply of containers was delivered by the caterer. So, the "take Home" meal program apparently did not get deep-sixed either.

One has to wonder what the county employees would do if there was no one to complain or draw attention to their schemes to deprive Senior Citizens of their fair due.

Brings to mind the recent flap about spending money training the retail liquor store employees to be kinder, friendlier people. Perhaps the county should spend some money to train the county's Office of Aging and Adult Services employees that their function is to "serve". They seem to have forgotten that it is not about them and making their lives easier; it is about the Senior Citizens that they are suppose to serve. A little compassion would certainly go a long way when making decisions that affect lives of the county's Senior Citizens.

And so it goes...

CONGREGATE MEALS

2009-03-19T23:10:00.000-04:00

CONGREGATE MEALS

THE SENIOR CENTER PROGRAM IS A CONGREGATE MEAL

PROGRAM OF SENIORS ASSEMBLED AND EATING TOGETHER.

OFF-SITE CONSUMPTION OF FOOD IS NOT PERMITTED

UNLESS A PERSON IS ILL, RECUPERATING, OR HAS AN

EMERGENCY. THE LUNCH MUST BE PACKAGES IN A 3

COMPARTMENT CONTAINER PROVIDED BY THE CATERER.

THE SENIOR CENTER PROGRAM DOES NOT RECEIVE FUNDING

BY THE FEDERAL AND STATE DOLLARS TO BE A SUBSTITUTE

GROCERY STORE, RESTAURANT OR SOUP KITCHEN.

LEHIGH COUNTY AREA AGENCY ON AGING 10/98

Please note that the above poster reflects a date of October 1998.

The language used in this poster was not appropriate 11 years ago and is certainly not the kind of thing you would expect to see on the bulletin board of a Senior Center in this day of enlighten- ment. Yet, believe it or not, someone in the Government Center on 7th Street thinks it is appropriate as it appears on the bulletin board in the Senior Center at Cedar View to this day.

I personally find it offensive and demeaning. I do not necessarily find fault with the rules, but the abusive language and tone of the message are uncalled for.

However, the poster does reference the take-home program which seems odd in that it states that the county will provide take-home meals in an appropriate container provided by the caterer. It is odd because in a cost cutting measure the County of Lehigh has discontinued take home meals and the containers referred to are no longer available from the caterer. So why is an eleven year old poster with outdated information and unacceptable language still posted.

That question can only be answered by the administrators downtown. How much is the county going to save by eliminating take-home meals and the cost of the container? Negligible at best. Seems the county bureaucrats are more interested in pleasing their bosses than worrying about the well being of the Senior Citizens. Wait, what is the office of agings mission?

"The Lehigh County Office of Aging and Adult Services is committed to supporting and empowering the well being of all adults of all ages, residing in Lehigh County."

Sounds about right!

And so it goes...

No Smoking Policy

2009-03-19T08:07:00.004-04:00

In June 2007, Lehigh County decided that Cedar View Apartments should be declared a non-smoking building. In fact, the entire premises was declared "smoke free". In all likely hood, that action was illegal. But who among us has the where with all to challenge the legality of such a broad ruling?

Being a smoke free facility has caused a lot of ill will within the building. The smokers feel that their civil rights are being trampled and the non-smokers claim that the smokers smoke behind closed doors.

In the summer of 2008, the county relinquished a little and placed a park bench next to the entrance road and declared it the "designated smoking area". So in all kinds of weather, rain, shine sleet and snow, the smokers trudge outside for a quick smoke. In the dead of winter I can assure you it is a quick few drags and then back to the warmth of the building.

As I mentioned before, Cedarbrook, the nursing home owned and operated by the county has an inside smoking area for its residents. Isn't that odd? The administrators adamantly refuse to spend any monies to provide comfort for the smokers at Cedar View, but the nursing home residents can smoke until it kills them. The administrators claim that smoking is bad for the tenants and that the building was declared smoke free for their own good. Sounds "Orwellian" does it not?

Unfortunately the rent goes up every year and thus, new leases are signed on an annual basis. So the need to 'grandfather' any resident was avoided.

All residents of Cedar View pay rent on time every month. What they do in their apartment behind closed doors is no ones business. Yet the county presumes to have the right to ban smoking in ones own apartment. Will liquor be the next thing they decide to ban? It can be argued that liquor poses a health risk. Are they going to take away my beer, my neighbors wine, or a grandmother's cocktail? Absurd? Not if you think about it rationally. If they can take away your right to smoke in your own apartment, then nothing is beyond their reach.

And so it goes...

Greed & Government Officials

2009-03-14T17:24:00.008-04:00

What is it that is going on with government today? It seems that everyone at all levels of government is out to get all that they can and then some. What happen to pride, morals, honesty? Is every politician and every government worker out to screw the County, the State, the National Government?

I am well aware of the jokes about politicians and graft, but when did it become so blatant? Did we all fall asleep at the switch? Have we become so complacent that we just let thievery slide? Are we saying it is okay to allow our representatives in government to do malicious and really bad things and it is okay?

I thought bad government employees always got caught eventually and payed their dues. Obviously, I was mistaken. The phrase is: "No bad deed goes unpunished". But that is "BS". Apparently politicians do evil deeds all the time and claim it is legal. And they get away with it. We should insist that new rules be developed that do not allow bad deeds to pass muster, and they should certainly not be considered legal.

I must be naive. How is it possible for powerful State Congressmen like Fumo to steal us blind and no one raises a finger for so many years. How does Governor Rendell get away with the nonsense that he endorses. This sweetheart deal with the LCB member's spouse, for example, is unconscionable. No wonder that local politicians and board members are fearful of the newly enacted revisions to the sunshine laws; it exposes all the skull drudgery that has been going on behind closed doors for years.

On the local scene, Cunningham and Polowski could be involved in "Pay to Play" schemes that awards no-bid contracts to big donors to their campaign war chest. Sure they may not actually be doing it, but why chance such accusations if they are not true. We need to put a stop to this now. We need government reforms that would put a stop to these shenanigans.

I was raised by my parents to be respectful, courteous, honest and to hold public officials in a special light for they were good men and women performing a public service. What a bunch of bunk that was. My mother and father were good people, but obviously they were disillusioned.

How many of us are disillusioned today? Why do we hold public officials in such great esteem? Most of them should be hung up by their toes. Where and when is it going to end? When do we say: "enough is enough".

It is time to throw the crooks out of office. If they are guilty of robbing us blind, they do not deserve our respect, our support or our vote. Get rid of the bastards!

And so it goes...

Nutritional Risk Assessment

2009-02-26T09:38:00.008-05:00

It has been awhile since I have posted anything about Cedar View Apartments (the elderly high-rise owned by Lehigh County). It is not that there is not news from the building or about county government, but I was taking a break. I do plan to post some of the highlights of 2008 in the coming weeks. But the use of the term "Nutritional Risk Assessment" got my attention and felt compelled to sit at my computer and put into words some of the stuff that has been going on that would make grown men cry.

Now, "Nutritional Risk Assessment" is some high falutin words that really mean; determine who among the Cedar View residents actually need a bag supper (cold meal in a cellophane bag) to take back to their apartment for an evening snack, so as to have something to eat before lunch (a hot meal) the next day.

Cedar View is an independent living facility. That is, the residents are over 62, for the most part, and can take care of themselves. without the need of assistance. Many use canes, walkers and motorized vehicles to get around the building and manage very well. A goodly number of residents have cars and still drive.

Each week day the county serves "hot" catered meals in fourteen Senior Centers located throughout the county of Lehigh. This program is paid for by the State using lottery funds designated for seniors. This creates one of the problems. The State funds are used for many senior programs that are operated by the county. The funds are spread far and wide and there is never enough money to go around. As a result, the senior center meal program is subsidized by the participants at a recommended $2.00 per day. Additionally the caterer provides the bag supper and they arrive in a number (multiples of 5) that are arbitrarily determined by the county administrators. Each day the Senior Center Manager calls the Government Center and informs them of the number of hot meals required for the next day. The Government Center in turn calls the caterer. Bag suppers on the other hand are delivered in lots of five. Cedar View, in recent memory, has never received fewer than 10 bag suppers.

So, the seniors are contributing toward the cost of the meal (currently $6.43 per meal). As a general rule, out of 210 residents, about 25 to 30 residents, 12 - 15%, participate in the meal program on a regular basis. I am told that the Senior Center at Cedar View is one of the better attended facilities.

So what is the problem? Why am I out of sorts with county administrators? In early January the Center Manager informed the participants that effective February 2nd, the number of bag suppers would be arbitrarily reduced to five. The Manager further suggested that the residents not sign up for a bag super every day, so as to give others a chance to have a supplemental meal every now and again. Have you ever heard of anything so ridiculous?

Senior Citizens are, for the most part, a docile group. They are easily confused, but are pretty much unflappable otherwise. So, except for some quite words among their table-mates, there was little reaction. That is until the Friday before day of reckoning. On that day when the manager reminded all of them that only five bag suppers would be delivered on the following Monday, the group was excited, angry, vocal and visibly upset. I was very proud of them. For awhile there was considerable chaos as everyone tried to speak at once. The realization had finally sunk in. At least five people would not receive a bag supper the following week. When order was restored, three residents that would normally get a bag supper indicated they didn't want any. One kindly soul muttered softly, "They know what they can do with their bag suppers."

I sent a week-end e-mail to the powers that be at the government center advising them of a near riot situation at the Cedar View Senior Center. As a result, on Monday, early morning phone calls were made and, low and behold, ten bag suppers were delivered that day and every day since. Of course, that, in of itself, created confusion as only five names were on the list and some for only two or three specific days. It took a week to sort it all out. And for what purpose? Sure the county is facing a short fall in its budget. Yes, the county needs to find ways of cutting cost, but take food out of the mouths of the needy, elderly? Shame, Shane, Shame!

Okay, so now we are approaching March and we still receive ten bag suppers, so why take issue now? That's where the Nutritional Risk Assessment comes in. A few days after the turmoil, the county administrators informed me that they were going to take a study, a risk assessment analysis, to determine specifically who would benefit most by having a bag supper. All well and good! This approach would allow for bag suppers to be distributed based on need rather than on a first come, first served basis. But when the survey was conducted, they lied to the residents as to its purpose. No, I do not mean that they stretched the truth, I mean they lied when they told the residents that they had a form they wanted then to fill out and that it was nothing to worry about, it was a form they had filled out before. No explanation as to the true purpose of the form was ever given. I sat there silent but very much disturbed by this approach.

What were they afraid of? Did they think the seniors would fudge the truth if they knew the purpose? Did they think they could support their earlier arbitrary decision to reduce the number to five if the residents did not understand its purpose? The questions on the form were of the type where pride might cause the responder to be less than honest out of embarrassment, thus causing them to score lower. Each answer had a numerical value and only the high scores would justify a bag supper. Were the administrators attempting to sway the results? For Christ Sakes, we are only talking about five bag suppers, here!

I would not have a problem if a legitimate study resulted in eight bag suppers one day and only five another but perhaps twelve on another. Meals are reserved, why not bag lunches? Why do they not just simply inquire as to who wishes a bag supper and order the correct number instead of an arbitrary number? This seems to be a lot of fuss about nothing. Nothing that is, except for the seniors that need and depend on the bag supper for nutrition.

Personally, based on the methods employed by the county administrators in taking their survey, I will have a difficult time accepting the results regardless of the outcome. I believe the analysis was conducted fraudulently and can not be trusted.

My suggestion to the Office of Aging; Just let it die. At some point, set up a system where bag suppers are ordered, just like the hot meals so that those that need them, get them. File the "Nutritional Risk Assessment forms in the waste basket. Find cost savings somewhere other than at the risk of starving the county's senior citizens.

And so it goes...

Computer Lab at Cedar View

2008-10-14T13:36:00.000-04:00

Several weeks ago a formal request was submitted to the Housing Supervisor at Cedar View asking that an empty apartment be set aside for use as a computer lab. The supervisor sent my request forward to the administrators in the Government Center.

Currently, at my insistent urging, the county installed two computers for use by the Senior Citizens residing at Cedar View. A short time later a black and white printer was installed. Then a relative of a resident donated a brand new Epson Color printer for which the box had never been opened.

The two computers, two printers, speakers, mice, etc., all share an 8 foot table squeezed in between a candy vending machine and a portable wall extension in the community room of the apartment building. When two people use the computers at the same time, their elbows actually touch. The table is less than ideal as the keyboard, which should be lower than the monitor, is on the same level making it difficult to type. There is little space to place paperwork or research material. There is no expectation of privacy.

Then, to add insult to injury, because the computers are in the Community Room, the times when they can be used is severely limited. On week days the Senior Center has exclusive use of the room from 9:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. On Monday afternoon the Bible Study Group has reserved the room from 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. On Monday and Friday nights the Bingo crowd has the room from 4:30 p.m. to sometime after 8 p.m. The Senior Citizen Club has the room on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of the month from 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. They also have dinners on Saturday nights five or six times a year. Occasionally the room is reserved by a resident for weekend parties. Well you get the picture.

Other high rises in the Lehigh Valley have separate computer facilities and Cedar View should as well.

A couple of weeks after the request was submitted the county sent their reply; it was written by a manager in the Government Center and it said no, the county was not going to set aside an apartment for a computer facility. The letter arrived suspiciously close to the next meeting of the county commissioners. It was a nice letter indicating that the request had received there full attention and indicated that there was insufficient usage of the computers to justify the loss of revenue. Yes, I agree that there is insufficient usage, but when would a resident get to use them? There are so many restrictions on usage during times convenient to the residents that you understand why the usage is not better. And how about a little privacy? A more conducive environment would go along way toward improving conditions so that our residents would feel comfortable sending e-mail to their grandchildren.

Loss of revenue! The average apartment rent is a little more than $300 a month. The annual loss of income is less than $4,000 a year. So are we comparing the loss of income to the county and measuring that against the life style and quality of life of the senior citizen residents? For me that's a no-brainer. How can you put a price tag on quality of life? And a very meager price tag at that.

The manager also hit on the idea that the county would be depriving a needy county resident of a place to live if one apartment were taken out of the inventory. At any given time there are one or two, some times more, apartments that are vacant and under rennevation. There is always a waiting list to get into Cedar View despite its lack of extra curricular activities. The inventory and the waiting list would adjust quickly and that person next on the list would get the next available apartment. That can not be a major concern.

Speaking of vacant apartments, while we were exchanging letters, there were eight vacant apartments. Taking one out of inventory at that particular time would not have even been noticed. As of today the empty inventory has been reduced significantly. This was accomplished by paying the maintenance crew overtime pay in order to get the empty apartments ready for occupancy. Umm! Someone should put a calculator on the lost revenue compared to the cost of overtime pay for the maintenance personnel.

The county administrators could create a computer facility if they wanted to. But the simple truth is that they choose not to. Is it because they did not want to install the computers in the first place? Did they think we would be satisfied with the current arrangement and crawl back into our hold and shut up? Surely they knew better than that! By now they should realize that I am not going away. They may have won a battle, but we are in a war. It signals a need to change tactics and to develop new strategy. Nothing more, nothing less.

Yes I did attend the commissioners meeting and I did bring the commissioners up to date on recent developments. I have support among the commissioners and they try to help me behind the scenes, however the goings on at Cedar view are not really within their purview. But I do appreciate that they provide me with a public hearing of my concerns and they have always been very gracious.

Next time, I will vent my frustration with the idea that the county thinks of us as objects to be warehoused. I am not at all sure the county should be in the business of providing living quarters for senior citizens and handicapped individuals.

And so it goes...

This and That & Other Things

2008-09-21T18:44:00.000-04:00

Well, where were we? Oh! yes, it was July and I was indicating that the second computer had been installed along with a donated color printer. The eight foot table on which the computers and printers are situated is very crowded. The computers are wedged between the candy vending machine and the folded up wall petition. As I indicated previously, not exactly an ideal situation.

I mentioned that a ground floor apartment was available hoping that the Housing Supervisor would convince the 7th Street Administrators that it should be utilized as a lounge and computer room. That did not happen and now the apartment is no longer available. Surprise, surprise!

For a period of time there were no fewer than eight apartments empty. There are adequate names on the waiting list to fill the apartments, but it takes time to renovate each apartment and to get it ready for a new tenant. The county is losing considerable revenue with that many apartments sitting empty. So the county authorized overtime pay for the three maintenance men on staff. Subsequently there are only four apartments currently empty.

Realizing that if I did not move quickly all of the apartments would be rented out and we (the residents) would be left without a computer lab. So on Wednesday, September 10, 2008, I made a formal written request of the Cedar View Housing Supervisor to hold apartment 105 for use as a computer lab. I attended the Lehigh County Commissioners meeting on the evening of the tenth to make the commissioners aware of the situation.

On the following Monday, when I learned that 105 had been promised and was no longer available, I revised my request asking for apartment 820 which is just across the hall from me. An apartment would be ideal to house the two computers. The bedroom would be suitable and would provide room for additional computers in the future. There is also the convenience of having bathroom facilities. I have volunteered to take responsibility of acquiring furniture and a television for the living room. With the number of residents that pass away or move to nursing homes, acquiring furniture at no cost to the county should be no problem. Having kitchen facilities and a refrigerator is a definite plus as well. Wouldn't it be great for the residents to have a quite place to sit and talk or to watch television? If both computers were in use, wouldn't it be nice to have a comfortable place to wait until one becomes available? Is two computers going to be enough? No! I would anticipate a need for additional computers. Would it not be better to have the computer equipment behind locked doors? The lock could be keyed to allow all residents access.

I additionally volunteered to step into the room each morning to insure that it and the computers are in proper order. I am willing to take out the garbage and to run the vacuum on a daily basis. I don't do that in my own apartment.

As I write this update, it is Sunday, September 21st. I have yet to receive a reply from anyone with the county. Could the loss of income for one apartment be so important? We are not talking about a great deal of money. What we are talking about is the quality of life of 210 independent living elderly adults. Is their value less than the rent for a single apartment? Who in county government is going to step forward and claim that the revenue from a single apartment (about $348 a month on average)is more important to the county than the health and happiness of the 210 residents that it provides housing for? Do we have a volunteer?

Yes, I realize that it is budget review time and Cunnungham is coming up short about 12 million, but surely they don't expect to make up the shortfall on the backs of the county's elderly citizens.

And so it goes...

A Second Computer

2008-07-28T10:22:00.001-04:00

Shortly after the computer classes were held at Cedar View by the Lehigh County Office of Training, a second used computer arrived. This second computer arrived much like the first one; without fanfare or even a posting to the bulletin board. Strange how the county does not seem to want to take credit for its good deeds. Could it be because the county was dead set against installing computers at Cedar View and vetoed every opportunity to be the recipient of "free" computers. Seems the county feels that everything comes with strings attached. And, of course they are right.

With computers you need access to the Internet. You need printers and paper and ink and maintenance. Then there is the concern for liability. What if one of the elderly residents gets scammed Online or through a fraudulent e-mail promising riches untold. Yes these are definitely concerns, but if we let such things stand in the way of progress, where would we be?

The county administrators were of the opinion that we elderly citizens were not interested in computers or the Internet. After all we are all old and senile, or at least that appears to be the view down at 7th street. But they learned that a sufficient number of people were interested. This was demonstrated by the attendance at the classes held recently. And when I mentioned, on an earlier blog post, how great it was that so many were getting involved, the second computer mysteriously showed up.

As I stated, the second computer was a used computer that most likely was sitting in storage down at 7th street or it could have possibly have come to us via Cedarbrook. No matter, it was used and the monitor is much smaller than the first one and it is on its last legs. It is very dim with little contrast even with the controls set on the brightest settings, It did not come with speakers or a printer. However, a generous daughter of one of the residents donated a brand new , never out of the box, color printer. This printer was hooked up to the second computer. So now grandparents can at least print out color photographs of their grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Too bad the monitor is so dim, many with tire eyes cannot make use of the second computer. Both computers reside on an eight foot table in the community room and neither can be used when there is a function going on in that room. It is very crowded on that table, with two computer monitors, printers, keyboards and mouses. Is that a word? (mouses)

It is becoming apparent that the community room is not suited for this additional function. More room is needed and in the not too distant future, more computers and more space will become an issue. Fortunately, a first floor apartment right across from the maintenance office just became available. What a great solution? Give up the revenue on the apartment, turn it into a computer room, where computer users can be provided some privacy and a quiet and comfortable place to send and read e-mail, surf the Internet, print out photos of grand kids and all kinds of good stuff. Sounds reasonable and logical doesn't it? Will it ever happen? Not likely!

Bear in mind that we are dealing with a bureaucracy. Bureaucrats do not like to make decisions that result in lost revenue. Truth be told, they don't like anything new that they did not think of. They are generally content with the status quo. They would rather put the concern for lost income from a single apartment ahead of the quality of life issue for 230 residents. How much are 230 residents worth? How much money are you willing to spend to provide a higher level of enjoyment for our elderly citizens? Sure there have to be limits and the administrator have a budget that presumably they are held accountable for. But is the budget more important than the well-being of hundreds of senior citizens? How do you put a price tag on "quality of life" when it is within your power to do something good and decent? Something the administrators should think about, don't you think?.

And so it goes...

Computer Classes at Cedar View

2008-07-03T11:10:00.000-04:00

Finally, computer class were held at Cedar view on Monday, June 30th and again on Wednesday, July 2, 2008. The computer was installed in February of this year and it took some time before arrangements were made to hold classes on basic introduction to computers and e-mail.

There was suppose to be a third class, but due to some cancellations, two classes were combined. On Monday there were five in attendance. On Wednesday, there were eight residents in attendance. We were hoping to have at least twenty take the course, but thirteen is a good start.

The computer courses were conducted by Vicki Semmel and Nicole Ryan, who are with the Lehigh County Office of Training. The subject matter and the approach used was at an appropriate level for beginners. A number of the residents had never sat in front of a computer before.

Primarily the classes were geared toward becoming familiar with the various definitions (computer language) and the various parts that make up the computer i.e., keyboard, mouse, tower, monitor. Emphasis was placed on accessing the World Wide Web (www), also known as the Internet. This included instructions on creating "Favorites", placing favorite web sites into a folder called "Favorites" for later retrieval. This is sometimes referred to as "bookmarking" depending on the browser in use.

Instructions were given on how to access the Internet for surfing or accessing an e-mail account that each participant would create later in the lesson. The residents were shown how to create a Yahoo e-mail account, schooled on the proper use of e-mail and cautioned about the do's and dont's of e-mail, or e-mail etiquette, if you will.

The class learned how to navigate their e-mail account; view mail, respond to mail by replying, deleting junk mail and the various other things involved with an e-mail account. Then each participant actually sat at the computer accessed the Internet and created their own personal e-mail account. At the end of the session, these individuals now have the ability to communicate with friends and family over the Internet. They also should feel comfortable going Online and surfing the Internet, thus opening a whole new and thriving world of knowledge and information to them. They now have a new fascinating world at their disposal.

The course was well presented and administered by Vicki and Nicole. The people that attended these classes got a good introduction to computers, the Internet and the use of electronic mail.

My only criticism is that it took too long to get classes organized and I did find fault with the manner of enrollment. Back in March, the residents were asked to sign a sheet if they had interest in attending a computer course. Months later, when classes were being formed, a new notice should have gone out indicating where, when and how the classes were going to be held. This did not happen and if you did not sign up indicating an interest, then you were unaware that the classes were being held. In other words, no one was given another opportunity to enroll.

As a result, it behooves Cedar View to quickly hold one additional beginner class for anyone that would have liked to have attended but missed the opportunity. Cedar View also needs to immediately begin thinking about follow-up classes for the next level of instruction. Those that completed the initial basic course are eager to learn more and would clamor to a follow-up course.

Also, as we increase the number of computer literate individuals in the building, it is time, once again, to begin thinking of creating a computer room with five or six computers to accommodate the residents desire to navigate the Internet and to communicate using electronic mail.

Appears it is once again time for Everette to renew his acquaintance with the Lehigh County Commissioners to let them know that we have a pressing need for more computers.

And so it goes...

Hearing Delayed

2008-06-27T16:45:00.003-04:00

There was suppose to be a hearing before a local magistrate for the individual that perpetrated the crime of keying another resident's car. The hearing was postponed at the request of the attorney hired by the defendant.

Although I do not have a firm date, I am informed that the rescheduled hearing will be held in mid-July. Can't imagine what the attorney expects to gain by delaying the inevitable. The culprit is clearly guilty of the crime for which she is accused. Well, that is to say, she is clearly guilty of the final incident where she was video taped keying the car. There is nothing more than circumstantial evidence that she was the one that keyed the car the first time on two different occasions. It was the third and final episode that resulted in her being caught in the act. Up to that point it was only suspicion.

In earlier post, I referred to the perpetrator as being deranged, unstable and other similar words of derision. Now that I know who the criminal is, I am a little more compassionate. Clearly she is disturbed. Clearly she is unbalanced. However, the crime apparently was committed out of emotion and passion. She did these deeds out of anger. She was angry at the system, she was angry at the individuals that stood in the way of a friend getting a preferred parking space, close to the building. She struck out, out of love and compassion for another elderly individual that she felt was being wronged. That of course does not justify her actions or her deeds, but perhaps it does explain it. It is a sad situation. One could say, that had she struck and let go of the anger, she would have gotten away with it. But she had to strike again after the original damage had been repaired. Now that is anger! Anger of the worst kind, for it causes people to do irrational things. Apparently under such circumstances, one loses the power of reasoning.

But this did not culminate with three separate keying incidences, there were notes, nasty notes pushed under doors of the innocent persons that owned the car. There were notes accusing others of the dastardly deed put under the door of the building manager. The act of placing notes under management's door were caught by a surveillance camera.

The defendants attorney should plead temporary insanity. There is no other plausible explanation for such unadulterated criminal actions.

In the meantime, the individual continues to reside in the building, going about her business as usual. It is an unfortunate situation, but the hearing needs to be held, the perpetrator needs to be found guilty and the tenant needs to be evicted. This can not happen soon enough.

And so it goes...

New Printer for the Computer

2008-06-09T14:09:00.000-04:00

Someone donated a used black ink only printer to Cedar View, but all efforts to get the computer to work failed. Ultimately, the county installed a printer. Actually it is a very nice printer, a Laser Jet printer, no less, but again it only prints in black ink. Hardly suitable for printing out photographs of great grandchildren.

Of course, the big rub comes when you realize that the county does not intend to supply any paper for the printer. Managements position is that the residents might abuse the privilege and print lots of stuff, thus wasting paper. They believe that each resident that uses the computer should provide his or her own paper.

Through the generosity of Ron Evans, manager of the Cedar View Office Depot, we were able to secure 3 boxes of paper. It was a very generous donation, indeed, as 3 boxes is 15 reams of paper.

A few days later, I was able to score a new color printer which my loving daughter donated. It is an Epson High Definition photograph printer. Ideal for pictures of the great grandkids. Of course, if the user wants photo quality prints on special photo paper, they will have to supply their own paper. But for plain paper copies, we have plenty of paper.

So, we move ever forward in our quest to have multiple computers eventually installed at Cedar View. Can't wait for the computer classes to begin. With twenty or so new computer literate residents, the fun should begin.

And so it goes...

Cedar View to Celebrate 30 Years

2008-06-05T15:24:00.002-04:00

On July 23, 2008, Cedar View Apartments will celebrate its thirtieth anniversary with a celebration in the Community Room and Under the Pavilion.

Opening Announcements will commence at 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 23, 2008. Dinner will be served beginning at 4:30 p.m. followed by entertainment from 6:30 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Music will be provided by "The Members"

1978

2008

Celebration - Compliments of Cedar View Apartments

County of Lehigh

And so it goes...

Computer Classes coming to Cedar View

2008-06-04T19:41:00.003-04:00

Some time ago, management at Cedar View posted a notice that a sign-up sheet was available for those that were interested in attending an introductory computer class. The notice was posted to acknowledge that a used computer had been placed in the Community Room for use by the residents. This compitulation was in response to a three year effort to get the county to install computers in a 'computer room' set aside for that purpose.

Although we did not get a computer room with the five or six computers that were requested, it was deemed a start when the county placed a single used computer in the community room. No printer, mind you, but a computer, none the less.

Management was advised that it would be necessary to provide some type of introductory courses in the use of the computer, how to access the Internet and how to create an e-mail account. It should have been obvious that the senior citizens were not going to learn to use a computer through osmosis.

Interestingly, when the notice went up, twenty-one residents indicated that they would be interested in attending a computer class to learn how to use the computer. Months passed with no word on when the classes would be held. Management was informed that the best bet for a bonified instructor would be either Parkland High School or LCCC.

As management came closer to making a decision on how the classes were to be conducted, they were informed that it would be appropriate to post a new notice indicating when the classes would be held and giving all residents a chance to sign-up, even if they failed to put there name on the original list. Bare in mind that the original announcement emphasized that the residents were not enrolling, but that management was simply trying to determine how many might be interested in attending a computer class. With the passage of time, many new residents have moved in, others have indicated that althought they did not sign the interest list, they now would like to attend a class.

Did a new notice go up advising all that computer classes would be held. No, the administration on 7th street determined that only the original twenty-one would be notified individually that classes would be held. They were sent private memos form the Director of Training, Vickie L. Semmel. Vickie is a county employee. These initial residents were asked to emroll for a specific class time and date as only three such classes of seven residents each would be held. Fair? Hardly!

It seems obvious that 7th street was surprised by the initial response and is reluctant to open classes up to all residents for fear that with more computer literate residents, more computers will be necessary to meet the demand. Dragging their feet? Make your own judgement.

And so it goes...

Majestics Entertain at Cedar View

2008-06-01T17:32:00.001-04:00

On the evening of May 28, 2008, the Majestics Country band entertained the residents of Cedar View Apartments for a full two hours. In addition to the band the sizable crowd was treated to square dancing and the singing of Erin Kelly, a talented young lady known around the Lehigh Valley for her vocal skills.

Prior to the event the Cedar View Senior Citizens served hot dogs, chips, and soda as a fund-raiser for the organization. Ice Cream Sundaes were also on sale during the event. It was a beautiful evening outside under the pavilion and everyone seemed to have a great time.

Jeff Hahn entertained the assembled group by dancing to several of the more lively numbers that the band played. The residents of Cedar View enjoy the Majestics and it is always one of the better attended concerts held throughout the summer.

A collection of photographs taken the night of the event follow:

And so it goes...

A Nice Saturday Afternoon

2008-05-24T20:00:00.000-04:00

It is a fine Saturday afternoon, May 24th, in fact, it's Memorial Day Weekend at 6:30p.m. Since about 3:30 p.m. I have been lying on a chaise lounge on county property across Dorney Park Road from Cedar View Apartments where I live. I am in a secluded spot next to a tributary of Cedar Creek, under a tree from which my bird feeder hangs.

The surrounding woods are filled with the sound of birds chirping. There are no birds at the feeder because it is empty. It is late in the month and I can't afford seed for the feeder. Maybe next month. But I am lying here enjoying the sun and the peace and the quite. Well, it is not that quite; I can clearly hear the sounds emanating from Dorney Park. After all, it is Memorial Day Weekend, the weekend that kicks off Dorney Parks season. But I am laying back, letting the sun's rays warm me, enjoying a few 'cold ones', reading a book, closing my eyes for a brief and well deserved nap. Hey, I am old, I am retired, I am entitled.

The sun is just beginning to fall lower in the sky, a gentle breeze stirs, it is restful and relaxing. I notice a mini-van drive by on Dorney Park Road. It proceeds to the end of the road and makes the right hand turn, slows, stops. I think to myself, "hey buddy that is a two lane road and a busy one at that; why would you stop there?" Curious, I cover my eyes with my hand to avoid the suns glare, a young boy, maybe four or five years old gets out and walks slowly away from the car. I am thinking, "does this kid have to tinkle?" Then I immediately realize the attraction; I am three hundred yards away but I notice a pair of geese with five or six goslings just thirty Yard's off the road. The boy approaches cautiously at first, then suddenly begins to run and chase the defenseless geese and their offspring. I bound out of my chair and I sprint (well, I call it sprinting, but at my age, there is probably another term for it) across the grass screaming at the top of my lungs for the young boy to leave the geese alone. I am incensed. The geese are terrified. I stop, cup my hands and yell as loud as I can that the parents are idiots and to get out of there; the kid runs back toward the car, probably frightened. I am truly sorry for him, not so much that I frightened him but more because he has idiots for parents. He doesn't know any better, but his brain-dead parents should. Apparently the windows in the car are down as I hear a bellow from the father; have no idea what he said, but I imagine he is no doubt chastising me for scaring his son. I shout that he should come back and we can have a chat, but the car pulls away and it is over.

Where did these people come from? How is it that adults, old enough to copulate and pro-create get the idea that it is okay for their child to chase wild life? What kind of world do we live in? what were these people thinking? I would have liked to have had an explanation from the kids parents...but they drove away; most likely thinking that I am some kind of deranged old man that needs to be institutionalized. They probably think I get my kicks yelling and scaring little boys.

And so it goes...

Helen Celebrates a Birthday

2008-05-19T15:30:00.004-04:00

Helen Gilliard celebrated her 99th Birthday today, May 19, 2008.

Helen, a long-time resident of Cedar View was in high spirits as she put yet another birthday behind her on her way to a century.

Vandalism Culprit Caught in the Act

2008-05-12T13:56:00.000-04:00

Yes, fortunately the culprit that vandalized a fellow tenants car has been caught in the act.

Since the last posting, the couple's vehicle has been repaired. On the second night after the car was repaired and once again parked in it's reserved parking space, the vandal struck again, keying the entire left side of the vehicle from rear panel to the driver's side door. It cost more than $3,200 for repairs the first time it was vandalized, so I guess it will cost nearly as much, once again.

But the good news is that the perpetrator was caught on tape actually damaging the vehicle. Although she was under suspicion, there was no way that the problem could be dealt with until she was actually caught in the act.

Previously the term "insane jealousy" was used to describe the individual that would resort to such measures to vent her frustrations. The interesting thing is that the act was carried out because the individual felt that someone else (an elderly male gentleman) was deserving of that particular reserved (handicapped) parking space, but did not get it. He remains on the "waiting list". The individual apparently felt so strongly that a wrong had been committed against her friend that she resorted to aggressive action against the offending vehicle.

It is a sad situation. While the individual will be dealt with in a court of law, none of us can take any real satisfaction in the fact that the incident occurred or that a mentally disturbed elderly citizen will suffer the consequences of her misguided actions.

The damage to the vehicle on three separate occassions now comes to more than $6,300. A hefty sum for a widow living on a pension. She may be found guilty of a criminal act as well, once she appears in court. It is certain that she will also be asked to leave the premises. So, the saga will end with her losing her home, having to leave friends behind and being unable to assist her elderly male friend. Chances are that she will be banned from ever setting foot on the premises. Additionally she will incur sizable cost for restitution and court costs. Jail time? No that is not likely and would not serve any real purpose. But she will lose plenty.

It is a very sad situation and a sad commentary on the human condition.

And so it goes...

Mother's Day Celebration

2008-05-11T15:20:00.001-04:00

The Cedar View Senior Citizens held their annual Mother's Day Dinner on Saturday, May 10, 2008 in the Community Room at Cedar View Apartments.

Celebrating Mother's Day for all of the mothers that reside at Cedar View Apartments is a tradition of the Cedar View Senior Citizens. President Everette Carr indicates that the Cedar View Senior Citizens provides six annual events for the residents, five of which are catered dinners with entertainment. These dinners are always held on a Saturday evening and the current ticket price is $10.00. The organization loses money on all of these events. The other event is the annual "Picnic Under the Pavilion" which is scheduled for Saturday, June 21, 2008. This is one of the clubs most popular event having drawn as many as 100 in past years.

The following photographs were taken at the 2008 Mother's Day Celebration:

As is evident, the residents in attendance were treated to a marvelous meal, catered by John and Barbara Finady (Consolidated Catering) and enjoyed the entertainment provided by "Jack Snyder and Friends".

And so it goes...

Anger, Jealousy, Hatred

2008-04-27T18:05:00.008-04:00

Anger, jealousy, hatred. Common enough terms. Words you would hear or read about all too frequently. But you would not expect to learn that these human emotions recently surfaced at Cedar View, an elderly high rise in Southwhitehall Township. But they did!

Jealousy, anger, a part of the human condition to be sure, but one would think that senior citizens have lived long enough to know that such emotions can be destructive and through wisdom, would shy away from acting upon these emotions, control them if you will, should they experience these feelings.

Gossip is certainly not unknown in an elderly high rise. That is a more common term associated with the elderly. Gossip can also be unkind, malicious and destructive as well. In many instances, gossip is based on erroneous information and as the story passes from mouth to mouth, it is embellished and exaggerated. We are all familiar with the results. A greatly distorted version that no longer resembles the true facts.

Two Cedar View residents who have been seeing each other recently decided for economical reasons and a love for each other that they should marry and combine their worldly possessions. They began the process by reducing two apartments to one. This meant the heart breaking process of eliminating excess furniture and personal possessions. This was accomplished. Next the couple sold her car and this is where the problems began.

Some background information is needed at this point; since Cedar view is a high rise for independent living, many of the residents own and operate personal vehicles. Cedar View provides about fifty reserved parking spaces which are assigned to residents based on seniority, i.e., based on move-in date. Thus those that have lived at Cedar View the longest, and are still driving, have a reserved parking space close to the building. Newer residents with vehicles are placed on a waiting-list and park in the 'south forty' in the meantime. The 'south forty', as I like to refer to it, is located south of the main building and is generally referred to as visitor parking. As a parking space becomes available, the next on the list is moved to a reserved parking space closer to the building. Currently, the wait for reserved parking is in the range of four to five years.

Based on the rumors and gossip, parking issues seem to top the list of things that get the elderly citizens riled up and angry. There are accusations of manipulation of the list, of management playing favorites, etc. None of this is true, of course, but you will never convince those that are still on the waiting list. Even for those that have long since moved to a reserved parking place are eager to talk about their wait and the abuses that occurred along the way.

That brings us back to the couple that are planning to marry and combine their households. They have moved into a single apartment. His car was newer so they sold her car. She had a prominent reserved parking space next to the building, he did not. The reserved parking place by any reasonable judgement would now be theirs. The fact that they chose to sell one car rather than the other should not be a consideration. That is the way that Cedar View Management saw it. That is the way that any rational thinking individual would see it. But not everyone saw it that way.

Someone, presumably a resident, thought that an injustice had been done. This individual apparently felt that management had erred. This individual set out to seek justice; to right a wrong, if you will. So, late one night this demented individual 'keyed' the driver side of the couples car and keyed a prominent 'X' in the center of the hood. Upon discovery the next morning, the building was abuzz with gossip and excitement. Police were conducting interviews and everyone was speculating as to who the culprit could be. Were there those in the building that think the individuals "got what they deserved? I truly do not know. I hope not!

But, like a pyromaniac, the individual apparently was basking in the fact that the incident was the topic of discussion that day. Police cars were parked at the curb, everyone was talking about what had happened. Could it be that the maniac that perpetuated this hideous crime got off on all the excitement? Although anonymous, is it possible that the individual was having his or her 15 minutes of fame?" GOD forbid!

The very next night the car was 'keyed' on the passenger side. Apparently, the mentally deficient perpetrator needed another adrenalin high. This is truly unimaginable, in my opinion. We are talking about an elderly high rise here. Will wonders never cease? Oh by the way, the damage came to just a few dollars more than $3,200. And, the car is titled in both names.

How is this possible? How is it possible for someone to become so insanely angry and frustrated over a parking space? What must have been going through this person's mind that led them to the conclusion that keying the offending couples car was the appropriate and proper response?

When is vandalism ever right or appropriate? I cannot fathom what they were thinking as I don't recall ever being that angry about anything.

Obviously the individual felt justified. They may even have felt that others approved of their actions. After all, they went back to inflict more damage. But from my perspective; it is sick, sick, sick! Does anyone have a clue as to who may have done this? Perhaps! There is some speculation; the investigation continues.

Not long ago, several washers and dryers were damaged when some unauthorized person entered the building and vandalized the machines in an attempt to get to the money. A short time later security cameras were installed in strategic places in the building.

It appears that the time has come to install security cameras outside the building as well. Had cameras been in place surveying all areas of the parking lot surrounding the building we would know who the demented, crazy individual that resorted to vandalism is. The person responsible for the heinous crime is in need of professional help. I hope she or he gets it soon.

And so it goes...

Blog Censorship?

2008-04-01T09:38:00.004-04:00

The blog, "Tilting at Windmills", is garnering a lot of attention. Bernie O'Neil from Nazareth took notice of my blog and notified former Lehigh County Commissioner, Marc Grammes. Grammes in turn notified the Chairman of the Lehigh County Commissioners of the blogs existence, who in turn sent the link to all of the current commissioners. Marc also sent e-mails to the area state representatives. I did not get around to installing a counter, so I do not know how many hits the site is getting. I don't imagine that it is many, but still the blog serves its purpose.

Shortly after the first of the year, when I had posted some suggestions as to the methods employed in re-determining rent to be charged to the residents at Cedar View, I sent the link by e-mail to the information e-mail account for the Office of Aging and Adult Services. The reaction was fairly quick in coming. I was verbally notified that I could not place a link to the blog in future newsletters (The View Inside) that are distributed quarterly to the Cedar View residents.

I had made arrangements some time ago to have the current issue of The View Inside posted to the Cedar View page on the county website. Once the administrators on 7th stree learned that the newsletter contained a link to the blog, the issue of The View Inside that contained the blog address was taken down off ot the county web site immediately.

I suppose the county has the right to dictate what I put into the newsletter if you stretch a little. There is a 'no solicitation clause' in my lease. I guess if you consider putting a newsletter under the door of each tenants door solicitation, then I am guilty as charged. So we presume that the county gave me permission to distribute the newsletter subject to conditions.

But, I created the newsletter. I write most of the articles and take the photographs that appear therein. I arranged to have the newsletter printed in color at no cost to the county and I deliver it to the residents. So, what is the counties involvement? The staff at Cedar View contributes articles and allow me to distribute it. The 7th street administrators post the current version only to the county web site. It is their web site and there is no argument that they can determine what is appropriate for that site, but doesn't it seem a little foolish to take down the newsletter that every resident has already seen just because it contains a link to a blog that is not always favorable to the county?

And so it goes...

Commissioners Meeting 3-27-08

2008-03-27T14:15:00.007-04:00

I attended the Lehigh County Commissioners meeting last night, the first one this year. I attended at least one meeting each month from June, 2007 to the final calendar meeting in December. At every meeting I rose to speak on the issue of computers for Cedar View Apartments and other issues I deemed important to the residents of Lehigh County. One issue was the no-smoking policy adopted by Cedar View management. One year after a ban was placed on smoking in ones own apartment, the county set up a "Designated Smoking Area". Setting up a DSA would lead one to believe that the county had empathy for the residents that were addicted to nicotine. But no, that was not the case.

The Designated area was just a bench outside next to the road that comes into the parking lot. As you can see, it is unprotected from the weather and is certainly not hospitable or pleasant except on nice cool summer days. I met with a top administrator on this issue, but the county declined to spend any money on smokers living at Cedar View.

But I stray from the main topic.

Last evening I spoke briefly to the commissioners, first introducing myself and welcoming those new members of the commission that were voted in last November and began their term of service in January. I updated the commissioners on the progress of obtaining computer equipment for Cedar View residents. As previously noted, we did receive one used computer for use by the residents, but do not yet have a printer. I indicated that a survey was being conducted to determine how many tenants were interested in attending classes on how to use the computer. Hopefully this will result in increased interest in using the computer, which in turn may be helpful in getting additional computers for Cedar view.

A short time ago I received an e-mail from former commissioner, Marc Grammes. Marc did not run for reelection, which is a shame. Anyway, Marc had heard about this blog from Bernie O'Neil, the political activist that writes the blog "Lehigh Valley Ramblings". He sent me an e-mail after reading that the county had only installed one used computer. He was disappointed and felt that the county should have provided at least five "new" computers for the residents. Marc made sure the current slate of commissioners were aware of my blog and pledged his support for my cause. I appreciate Marc's support.

I asked the commissioners at the meeting last evening to also pledge their support to me in my quest to improve the quality of life at Cedar View. Bear in mind that the commissioners can not help me or Cedar View directly. Changes are made or implemented by the administrators at the Office of Aging and Adult Services. The administrators do not have any obligation to the commissioners as it is beyond their purview. Be that as it may, the commissioners meeting provides a public forum and usually Lynn Kovich, Director of Human Services, is usually in the audience. I often tell the commissioners that they are my conduit to the county administrators.

It was good to renew my acquaintances with the commissioners and to address the new commissioners on the board. I do plan to attend more regularly in the future. It may or may not be helpful, but, if nothing else, it allows me to vent my frustrations.

And so it goes...

Catering Contract

2008-03-26T17:30:00.000-04:00

A catering contract was entered into between Lehigh County (Office of Aging and Adult Services) and a catering firm located in Jim Thorpe, PA. which went into effect on July 1, 2005. The contract was for a four year period ending June 30. 2009. However, the terms of the contract calls for annual renewals, so in actuality, it is a year to year contract renewable annually by both parties. This catering contract covers eleven Senior Centers located in Lehigh County.
Cedar View Apartments is one of the centers covered by the contract.

Hot meals are delivered every day of the work week (Monday-Friday) except on holidays. Additionally a bag lunch (cold) is also supplied to each participant to take home for a snack later in the day. The cost of the meal is currently $4.40 per person. It was initially $4.20, but was raised at the most recent renewal period. The fact that the firm is located in Jim Thorpe has caused some failures to deliver meals on days when it has snowed. Generally the meals are delivered on a timely bases and are tested to insure that they are at the appropriate temperature before the food is served.

The contract has a provision that allows the county to terminate the contract at any anniversary date without cause. It can also be cancelled with thirty-days notice to the caterer, also without cause. So, theoretically, the county is not bound by the June 30, 2009 date and could, if it chose, begin a search for a replacement caterer at any time.

Of the approximately 210 residents of Cedar View only roughly ten percent actually participate in the meal program. There are various reason and excuses for this. Nearly half of the population of Cedar View has their own transportation. All of the residents are independent as Cedar View is an independent living facility. The more elderly among the residents need the service while a number of the younger residents participate because the cost is reasonable. A resident is told that the suggested fee is $2.00 per meal, but in reality, no contribution is required. The program is subsidized by the State Program which sets aside funds for seniors from the gambling revenues.

If less than twenty sign-up for a meal on a particular day, the hot meal service is cancelled and a cold meal is served instead. At times it has been difficult to get twenty people to make a reservation for a meal. This is particularly true on days when the meal is not one of the favorites. Oddly enough, liver and onions is among the favorites and garners the biggest turn out. Go figure!

A problem with this or any caterer is that if they serve a meal that is not up to expectations, then the attendance suffers for future meal service. Often if a person gets a 'bad' meal, then they may not ever return. Then there is the problem of rumors. The rumor that floats around is that the food is not good. Some have never even tried the meal service, but tell one they have no intention of going for lunch because the food is bad.

At times it is bad. The current caterer would do well to avoid meals that call for meatballs. The pork riblets are a big disappointment as well. Both seem to be made from some unknown compressed meat. They taste like cardboard. You would think that real hamburger meat would be cheap enough that meatballs could be delicious. But the frozen cardboard tasting meatballs we are served are easier to prepare. Also, the pasta sauce on the spegetti is usually thin and runny and add little to the flavor. So, yes some improvement would be helpful. Does the county management ever discuss these issues with the caterer? Probably not. Perhaps it is time to take a survey to determine the thoughts of the people in the buildings where the Senior Centers ar located. Somehow I doubt that the county really wants the tenants feedback.

Are the meals bad? Yes some are. But by and large the meals are good, bland, but good. Could the caterer improve the quality of some of the meals? Certainly! Do we need to look for a new caterer. I think so, but mostly because the caterer is located in Carbon County, a good distance from the Lehigh County Senior Centers. The county should contract with a cater in Lehigh
County. It is that simple. Will the meals improve if the caterer were located in Lehigh? Probably not, they may even get worse. That is dependent on the people within the county charged with the responsibility to insure that the meal service is adequate and that it is healthy, nutritious and good tasting.

When looking for a food service provider one has to be concerned about quality of the food. Low bidder requirements and quality food are not compatible. You can expect to get decent food if you accept the lowest bid. There has to be some way to get around the issue. No bid contracts do not seem to be a problem for the governor.

And so it goes...

Public Hearing

2008-03-21T10:02:00.000-04:00

The notice that follows was issued by the Lehigh County Aging and Adult Services Office. The notice is intended to communicate that the Office of Aging and Adult Services is holding a Public Hearing at the Government Center on 7th Street for the purpose of getting feedback on the four-year plan that is being prepared to cover the years 2008-2012:

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The Lehigh County Office of Aging and Adult Services is currently in the process of preparing its 2008-2012 Area Plan. The general public can provide their input and ideas concerning the programs and services of the agency. The agency's programs and services can be viewed on the county website at http://www.lehighcounty.org/. The final plan will be a comprehensive document that details the provision of supportive services to people of Lehigh County who are 60 years of age and older. Lehigh County's four year Aging Plan will be submitted to the Pennsylvania Department of Aging.

The Four-year Planning Process allows you the opportunity to provide input and ideas concerning programs and services to the over 60 population.

This is an opportunity for your voice to be heard. You may give a brief (no more than 3 minutes) testimony or you may submit your comments in writing and mail them to:

Current providers of services to older individuals are encouraged to attend and provide estimony.

Public Hearing for Area 4-year Plan

Thursday, March 20, 2008

1:00 PM

Lehigh County Government Center

Public Hearing Room

17 South 7th Street in Allentown

Written testimony will also be accepted and should be sent before March 20, 2008 to:

Kim Melusky, Program Analyst

Lehigh County Aging & Adult Services

17 South 7th Street

Allentown, PA 18101-2401

Thank you for your interest and concern.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The comments that appeared here earlier have been removed. It seems there was a miscommunication between the Government Center and the managers of the various Senior Centers which tended to indicate that the number of residents that could attend the meeting was restricted. That was not the case. I apologize for my remarks.

I did attend the hearing and in fact, I was the only one from Cedar Crest to do so. There were only sixteen people present at the hearing which was conducted by Donna Zimmerman, the Director of Aging and Adult Services Department. I spoke about the quality of the hot lunch served at the centers and suggested that the office of aging take steps to locate a caterer in Lehigh County. I indicated that the quality and quantity of the food was an issue at times and that the county should seek a caterer closer to home.

Only two others spoke at the meeting. One spoke on the overall issues of the Senior Centers and the need to re-evaluate the programs offered. The other was a home health care provider who felt that the county's commitment to the program was falling far short of the need. It seems that there is, in this vendors opinion, insufficient monies in the budget to take care of the growing need for home health care services.

The meeting concluded with little of any real import on the issues facing the county with respect to the elderly citizens living in Lehigh County.

And so it goes...

Computer Installed at Cedar View

2008-03-05T12:31:00.004-05:00

On February 29, 2008, Management at Cedar View sent a notice to all tenants that a computer had been installed in the Community Room. The notice reminded the residents that there was a sign-in log and that they must sign-in and out each time they use the computer.

No fanfare, no bands or ribbon cuttings. Just here it is, take good care of it. But that's okay! The main thing is that we now have access to the Internet.

So, after a long hard battle with the administrators on 7th Street, the residents at Cedar View have a computer at their disposal. There are only a few problems to be resolved.

One problem is that the computer did not come with a printer. It isn't as though a printer would get a lot of use, but when pictures of a new great grandchild are sent to great grandmaw, then naturally she would want to print them out and take them to her apartment. Trip confirmation and other important matters would necessitate a print-out as well. Are there going to be abuses with residents printing out unnecessary things; absolutely. But all we are talking about is paper and ink. A printer is needed and should have been supplied with the initial hook-up. One would hope that this is an item that is high on the county's agenda.

Another problem; the county has not made arrangements for instructions on how to use a computer. Class room instructions are needed for those that have never sat down in front of a computer. Surprisingly, a number of residents are computer literate and immediately took advantage of this wonderful new resource. There have even been people waiting to get on the computer, which indicates a need for more than one. I spoke with the Housing Supervisor and was informed that she plans to put up a flyer asking if anyone is interested in attending computer classes. I endorse this approach, but many senior citizens are deathly afraid of computers and will not sign-up for a class. How do we get these people interested? By word of mouth. Those that do attend will tell others how easy it is and how great it is to be able to exchange e-mails and to surf the Internet.

Oh by the way, there are a number of residents that have their own personal computers and use them daily in their own apartments. These computer literate tenants have no need for a community computer but may be able to help others not so fortunate.

Printers, additional computers, it will happen! The county will have to acknowledge that computers are a valuable resource for the residents of Cedar View and additional computers will be forthcoming.

High Definition Television

2008-02-29T08:44:00.002-05:00

High Definition television is coming in February, 2009 but that is not reason for concern for residents of Cedar View Apartments. Cable service is supplied to the tenants by Service Electric Cable Television. Service Electric will, once High Definition becomes the norm, convert that signal back to the analog signal that your television receives today. As a result, you will continue to receive your favorite television shows even after the February , 2009 deadline.

So what do you have to do? NOTHING!

You do not need a new TV. You do not need a converter box. You don't have to get vouchers from the government. You do not need to do anything.

If you are desirous of receiving the HD signal because it produces better picture quality, that's fine; it is your decision, but if you are content with your present television you will continue to get the same programs just as you always have.

So sit back and relax and enjoy your favorite programs at no increase in cost and no need to buy a new television set.

And so it goes...

Random Thoughts

2008-02-28T16:33:00.002-05:00

Minority vs. the Majority

The county determined that the issue with the tenant complaining about the noise level emminating from tne community room could best be resolved by soundproofing the community room. I am not sure exactly what the process is but the community room has been closed for the past two days while the work is accomplished. I did stick my head in this morning out of curiosity but did not stay long. The room is encased in floor to ceiling plastic with the remains of broken ceiling tiles laying about and a heavy lingering mist created by the ceiling dust or possibly the stuff they were spraying into the ceiling. It was difficult to breath, so I decided I didn't need to get further involved although sever of the workers invited me to pitch in and help. I declined and departed.

Sound proofing the ceiling of the community room seems like it would be an expensive project, particularly when it effects only one apartment and a single tenant. It has been my experience that once you get a complaint the harder you try to please the complainer, the more difficult it becomes. I hope this is not the case with this issue.

To set the record straight, although some believe that I got involved in this issue by overhearing a conversation between management and the tenants son. It was an interesting conversation, but I was concerned about the issue of the microphones being turned down for some time. Then when the locks were placed on the cabinet doors that housed the sound equipment, I became really concerned. But I was not the only one. A number of peoiple were talking about gathering signatures on a petition. The residents voicing their opinions on the matter were many and varied. I was frankly surprised at who was coming forward ready to protest their dislike for the recent actions. The building is filled with bingo fanatics and when they can't hear the bingo caller, they become vocal. The timing of my protestations in the blog was pure coinsidence and was not triggered by the son's protests.

I hope the issue is resolved with the county's actions. I personally would like to see things return to normal. Once a decision was made to soundprroof the community room, management did turn the volume back up some. However I have noticed that it has since been turned a little lower. It is too low in my opinion, but better than it was.

Oh, by the way, the Cedar View Senior Citizens organization did send management a letter threatening to suspend all future meetings unless the sound system was at a level that met with their satisfaction. The organization has not followed through as the volune of the system was turned up. A new evaluation will be made when the club holds it next regular meeting on March 5, 2008.

Cold Lunches

With the community room closed on Wednesday and Thursday, there were no hot meals for the residents that participate in the hot meal program. Actually, this didn't bother me all that much as I prefer the cold meals (sandwiches, cold slaw, etc,) They are a bit skimpy however. Normally a hot meal comes with an entree, two vegitables, juice, milk and desert. The cold meal offers bread, some type of meat or salad for the sandwich, cold slaw, a pasta salad and milk. Missing is the juice and desert. But one would not starve living on the cold or bag lunch as it is called. But as I have emphasized before, hot meals are essential for some of the more senior members of our group.

Caterer

I mentioned the other day that there was a rumor going aound that the county was looking at the possibility of contracting with a new caterer. The newest rumor indicates that the current contract is not up until 2009. Not too soon to start a search, but not thrilling news for the residents at Cedar View. There are twelve Senior Centers in the county and it would be logical that all twelve get the same food from the same caterer. Makes me wonder if they get complaints and have as poor a turnout as Cedar View? Perhaps when the weather turns warmer someone should visit all twelve and discuss this with the managers. Might prove interesting.

I did search the county contracts put out for bid but did not find one for the caterer from Jim Thorpe. This too will require more research.

Miscellaneous

A number of good things have been happening at Cedar View. The parking lots have been cleared promptly after the recent snows. These last couple of times they even cleared the snow from the designated smoking area instead of ploying it in as they did earlier this winter. The Cedar View Senior Citizens had a Valentine's dinner which was well attended. The food was excellent and the entertainment was fun. The Happy Boombadears were on hand to insure that everyone had a good time. And a good time was had by all!

And so it goes...

Unwinnable Battles

2008-02-27T12:40:00.003-05:00

Tilting at Windmills - Unwinnable Battles.

Of course when you attempt to do battle with any government entity you will find that, at best, it is an uphill battle. More often than not, it is a waste of time to attempt to apply logic where government entities are concerned.

I started an effort to get the county to put computers into Cedar View Apartments for the use of the tenants in the year 2001. I even made arrangements with Air Products for the donation of two refurbished computers. The county turned my proposal down. "Where would they put them?" "Who would use them?" "It's too expensive."

Well, I let that one go for awhile and then renewed my efforts in 2007 by taking my case to the county commissioners. Now bear in mind, the commissioners have no direct involvement in the day to day operations of the county, but they gave me a sympathetic ear and were very gracious. From the county administrators I still got lots of excuses as to why it could never happen. But my repeated visits to the county commissioner meetings eventually wore the administrators down and recently a new computer was installed in the community room. It is not operational just yet; seems that the computer they installed was a computer that had been used on 7th street, which is fine. But when they installed it at Cedar View, it was discovered that the hard drive still contained secret county business. So the hard drive was removed and taken back to 7th street. Don't know if a clean one has been installed yet or not. The community room, where the computer is located, is not accessible for the next couple of days (more on that another time)

I did take note that there wasn't a printer hooked up although it might be connected to a network printer in the main office. Then again they might not consider a printer as necessary. I would consider it vital. Time will tell.

There has not yet been a public announcement, but that would be premature since the computer is not yet functional. Hopefully, when the official announcement is made, we will learn about the time and place where computer classes are going to be held for the benefit of the elderly residents that are not familiar with computers. "Not familiar with computers" is, of course, an understatement; many at Cedar View are deathly afraid of computers, so getting them involved is going to be a chore. But it will be a worthwhile chore. Since the year 2000, senior citizens have been the fastest growing segment in the computer market.

Recently, Nora Dowd Eisenhower , Pennsylvania's Department of Aging Secretary, announced a new web site created specifically for seniors to keep them informed about changes and new programs for the elderly. She stipulated that the Internet would be the primary means of communicating with elderly Pennsylvanians. That is all well and good if the seniors have access to computers. Locally, we have not done a great deal to make computers available. The Aging Department on 7th street in downtown Allentown hasn't done much to help the situation. And what they are doing is too little and too late. The fancy building on 7th street houses a bunch of skeptics that hide behind outdated rules and regulations. It is high time for the county to start thinking outside the box; to embrace the twenty-first century, to be bold and forward thinking. Is that asking too much?

The one computer installed at Cedar View, only after momentous and unusual efforts, is located in the community room where many other activities are conducted. This places severe restrictions on the times when one can even use the computer. Perhaps one should be thankful for small victories and let it go at that. But if you know me you know I am not going to let that happen. This is a small victory but there is still much to be done. I am not going anywhere. I once told the commissioners that I imagined the civil servants holding meetings in paneled conference rooms trying to determine Everette's life expectancy from charts; trying to ascertain when Everette would no longer be a problem.

Hey! I plan to live beyond most of the current administrators retirement date, so get used to it!

I once was able to arrange a meeting with one of the top administrators in Lehigh County to go over a list of items that I thought merited attention. The computer project was already in the works but I was unsuccessful in acquiring any details as to what was being planned, not even an approximate date of installation. Of the other four items on the agenda, I was told that only one might be doable. Well even that item failed to garner attention of the powers to be and of course I never received an explanation nor did I ever receive an update on the computer project. But then, the county employees do not owe me an explanation - I am just a tax-paying resident of the county and one that lives in a county owned elderly high rise, so apparently I don't count.

And so it goes...

Cedar View Senior Center

2008-02-25T16:54:00.001-05:00

There is a rumor going around Cedar View apartments that Lehigh County is looking at the possibility of contracting with a new caterer. This may only be a rumor, but it is gaining momentum among the residents. So if the county is not looking at the possibility of bringing a new caterer perhaps they should.

It is amazing to me that the current caterer was hired in the first place. Not only is the caliber of the food a subject of question, but they are located outside the county and the food is trucked in from somewhere around Jim Thorpe. Surely the county could find a qualified caterer in Lehigh County?

There are twelve Senior Centers operated by Lehigh County and all, presumably, serve lunch five days a week. It is also assumed that they all get there their food from the same source. This would seem to be a lucrative contract for a budding caterer closer to home. Perhaps the problem is with the bid process. When you are looking for quality food service you should not look at the cheapest. Food and cheap are not word that should be used in the same sentence. I know, the county must follow certain prescribed procedures and must choose the low bidder. What a shame!

Maybe someone needs to address the issue with the commissioners and get them to pass an act barring the county administrators from going outside the county for food services. That would not guarantee better food, but it would eliminate the problem of keeping the food hot. The temperature of the food is a serious consideration. The distance and the number of stops the caterer makes just adds to the concern.

I previously commented on the meatball sandwiches and the fact that the meatballs tasted like cardboard. Last week the residents were served something the menu identified as Hamburger BBQ. Well most of us know these as "Sloppy Joe's". I am not sure what one would call the stuff served to us. It was very soupy and if there was any real meat in it (much less hamburger) it was hard to find. It reminded me of something my daughter's dog had thrown up. It didn't taste much better. A number of residents refused to eat it including myself. One individual stated that the Lehigh County prisoners eat better than we do. I wouldn't know about that, but I imagine there is some truth in that. If hardened criminals get upset about the quality of the food, they tend to riot. I find it difficult to imagine a riot among the senior citizens that eat at Cedar View although it could be entertaining to have a food fight.

No the seniors do not riot, they just stop coming down for lunch. The building has about 210 residents. The center has difficulty getting 20 to sign up for the hot lunch. That's barely 10% of the total populace that voluntarily comes down for a meal. Lately we have been begging the residents to come down occasionally so as to insure that 20 people are signed up so that a hot meal is delivered for those that would not get a meal otherwise. A few hearty souls do participate but usually they don't last long. So it is always an ongoing struggle. Like today. Fish was on the menu for Friday, but the caterer did not deliver because of snow. No food on Friday. Today, (Monday) the meal everyone signed up for was pork and sauerkraut, a favorite and one that the caterer does fairly well with, so a better than usual turnout. What did the caterer deliver? You got it; the fish from Friday. Disappointed, you betcha! I did not stick around long enough to see how many stayed for the meal they didn't order but I suspect it was quite a few.

And so it goes. Let's hope that the rumors have some truth to them and that the county administrators are seriously looking into hiring a new caterer. We need a change; we need decent meals. "But you only pay $2.00 for your meal, you have no right to complain." Baloney! The state subsidizes the meals through the gambling revenues, you know, the ones earmarked for senior citizens.

We deserve better!

A minority of one vs. the majority

2008-02-09T15:45:00.000-05:00

On February 4th, I wrote about the situation with one tenant at Cedar View being disturbed by the noise emanating from the Community Room. The tenant lives directly above the Community Room and any reasonable individual would presume that that particular apartment is going to hear the sounds made by the bingo machine, or the piano when the chorus rehearses, not to mention the bands when special dinners with entertainment are held. The community room is also used for exercise classes, lunch service, Senior Citizens meetings and many other activities.

The tenant no doubt has a legitimate complaint. I would not want to live directly above the community room. So far the answer to the problem was for the maintenance people to put a lock on the door where the amplification equipment is kept. In this was way, no one can alter the volume arbitrarily. Management determined the appropriate level of volume for all activities. But the complaints continued. The volume level has been reduced on at least two more occasion; turning it lower and lower.

There are no less than four bingo games a week at Cedar View. The bingo machine makes considerable noise when it whirs and the balls bounce around and the participants talk among themselves creating a constant audible sound. So with the volume set at its present level, it is difficult for the elderly with hearing problems to hear the numbers as they are called.

Seems strange to me and others that the majority of the tenants are suffering because one tenant is disturbed. That is not to say that the tenant does not have rights, they certainly deserve to live in a relatively quite and peaceful environment, but where does that one tenants rights end and the rights of the majority begin? Seems to me that a better solution needs to be found that does not penalize the majority.

I am sure that management will tell us that they are working on it and that they hope to resolve the issue soon. But as we all know, county government moves slowly and in the meantime we now have many tenants that are unhappy and complaining. I have even heard talk of a petition being circulated to send to the County Executive, Don Cunningham. You no doubt have heard that he is seeking a higher political office and will need the support of the citizens. Those that favor a petition seem to think that he might like to garner their votes.

I mentioned earlier that the best possible solution is to immediately move the tenant. It not like this hasn't been done before. Yes, there is a new policy that prohibits internal moves, but surely this is an exception and moving the tenant would solve the immediate problem without causing grief to all of the other tenants who also have rights. This tenant is never going to be happy unless drastic action is taken. Moving the tenant seems to be the only plausible answer. This does not solve the long term problem, but it gives management time to work on a long term solution while allowing the community room activities to return to normal.

Just my humble opinion!

What makes an Activist?

2008-02-08T02:24:00.000-05:00

I never considered myself an "activist". For the most part, growing up in Memphis, Tennessee in the 1940's, I would not have been familiar with the word. I was a shy kid, tall and gangly and not one to call attention to himself. At social functions you would find me standing alone in the corner away from the main stream, just minding my own business.

Yet even then, although I did not recognize it as such, I was an activists of sorts, abet a very quite one. I rooted for the underdog, the down trodden, those less fortunate. Mind you I was not very vocal, I was never vocal, but still my heart was in the right place even if I did not stand on a chair and shout out my allegiances.

In the military I took courses in leadership and speech making. I learned to stand in front of groups and make my wishes known. In college, I took speech courses in order to fulfill the requirements of my degree. So slowly, ever so slowly I began to emerge from my shell.

As I rose through the ranks in my chosen profession, I was compelled to speak before groups of various sizes. But then, it was more of a performance, much like an actor on a stage. The speeches were written ahead of time and rehearsed. It is always easier to perform when you can pretend to be someone else. In a sense, one hides behind a fictitious character making it much easier and more comfortable to appear before large audiences.

Yet there was a time when speaking extemporaneously without preparation became easy and comfortable. I am not sure at what point this occurred, but with this new ability, I found myself speaking out for others. I felt compelled to speak for those that could not speak for themselves.

Once I became one of those individuals that are referred to as a Senior Citizen, I found myself more and more involved with charitable organizations. I became active with a number of organizations as a volunteer. When my wife became ill we moved into the county owned high rise known as Cedar View Apartments. It is the only apartment complex for independent elderly citizens that is owned and managed by Lehigh County. There are some 210 residents living in the apartment complex. There is no resident or community organization to represent the citizens so there is little or no input from the residents in the affairs at Cedar View. Management on 7th Street has decided that they know better what is good for us than we do. They (7th Street Administrators) run the apartment building as if it were an institution. They exercise some control over our lives while we are on the premises. What they fail to realize is that we are human beings with free will and the ability to arrive at fairly intelligent decisions without their help or assistance. As such, we are pretty much in tune with their lack of empathy and understanding. Their focus is on how to make their working lives easier when they should be focusing on how to make the residents lives fuller and more comfortable. Virtually every resident that lives in Cedar View will know it to be their last residence where independent living is possible. Some will die, alone in their apartments. Others will be shuffled off to a nursing home to live out their days in oblivion, and alone.

With the prospect in mind that this is the last real home any of us will know, I stepped forward to be a voice for the elderly residents that call Cedar View home. Yet it seems inappropriate to call an apartment 'home'; yet the residents work hard at making the space within the walls of their apartment comfortable and homey. So yes, home is the proper term. But why do the administrators on 7th street try so hard to make it less? The people that are employed to provide housing think their job is done if we have a roof over our heads. Beyond that, it is hard to fathom that they have any other interest than making the tenants lives difficult.

Certainly with roughly 210 residents there will be conflicts and problems that need to be addressed. But the Housing Supervisor, on site, is more than capable to handle any problem that arises. She is a competent administrator that is capable of determining what is needed and required and meeting any situation or circumstances that might arise. Why then is it deemed necessary for the 7th Street administrators to micro-manage Cedar View? We would all be the better for it if they would simply keep out of the affairs of Cedar View and go about their business.

Needless to say, my various suggestions made in previous post to this blog were deemed to be of no discernible value and were dismissed out of hand. After all, wouldn't it be embarrassing for the folks on 7th Street if an elderly resident's suggestions were adopted. So I received a reminder that in addition to my rent payment for the month, the county was going to deduct $66.00 from my bank account in February as my contribution toward the electric bill for the privilege of having an air conditioning unit in my living room and my bedroom. That deduction will take food off the table. I will run out of funds before the end of the month as a result of this onerous deduction. I suggest that it be spread out over more time, but that request (suggestion) fell on deaf ears.

But we do have the benefit of the Senior Center so I will not starve before the next check. The hot noon time meal calls for a contribution. The recommended amount is $2.00 per day, but since I won't be able to afford that, I will turn in an empty envelope. Not a pleasant way to live, but you do what you have to do. It would be nice if the people on 7th street were a little more sympathetic to our condition. And it would be nice if the meals were a little more tasty and delivered hot. The meals we are fed are most likely inferior to those served in the County jail, but then they have their own chef on site and a much larger food budget than Cedar View.

But, as I said, it is not the fault of local management. I place the blame squarely on the heads of those sitting comfortably in their offices on 7th Street. I hope they never find themselves in a position of having to move into a county owned elderly high rise.

That's all for now, until next time.

Rights of the Majority vs. a Single Individual

2008-02-04T18:24:00.000-05:00

When do the rights of one individual supercede the rights of the majority? Cedar View has a delimma. A single resident with an apartment above the Community Room has incessantly complained about the noise from below. Bingo is played three or four times a week in the community room, lunch is served in the community room and there are announcements. There is a large screen tv in the community room as well. Dinners with entertainment are held in the community room about 7 or 8 times a year. All of these functions are well attended by a large number of residents.

Finally, the residents son has made it known that unless management moves his mother to another apartment he will take action to resolve the situation. Not sure exactly what that entails, but you can use your imagination. The son was quite irrate and is not likely to let the matter drop without resolution.

Banning events in the community room is certainly not the answer. Moving a tenant within the building is normally a violation of policy. However, in this instance, asceeding to the residents request to move seems to be the proper solution.

But what about the next person that moves into that particular apartment? Will the saga repeat itself endlessly? Is management of Cedar View and the county administrators on 7th Street willing to forgo the income that would be derived from renting the apartment to avoid future grief? As a proponent of placing computers in Cedar View for the use of the elderly residents, I would like to propose that the apartment be converted into a facility to house several computers.
This would provide privacy for those using county donated computer equipment, provide a roomy, comfortable space and would avoid future problems with the noise level generated from the community room downstairs.

Of course, at present the county has only agreed to install one computer on the premises for the use of more than 210 tenents, although not all or even a majority of the tenants is likely to take advantage of having computers on the premises. That is a given. But what is the proper number? Is two too many? Is three enough? I would be willing to bet that three or more would get sufficient use to justify their existence in the proper setting. And a private dedicated space as a computer lab would certainly increase the chances that the computers would be utilized.

First things first; move the irrate tenant. Then give thought to how to best utilize the space.

Senior Center - Meals

2008-02-02T18:30:00.000-05:00

The campaign to increase attendance for lunch at the Cedar View Senior Center has been successful. The article in the recent newsletter, "The View Inside" informed many of the new residents of the activities of the facility. Announcements were made at the Senior Citizens' meetings as well. Word of mouth that the center might close was another factor in its revival.

I attempted to show the way by eating my meals in the center. The meals are nutricious but bland. But we all know that nutricious and bland go together like salt and pepper, pardon the pun. Doctoring the meal with salt and pepper improves the taste, but goes against the grain of popular thinking. For the most part the meals are edible and some quite good. But when a meal is bad, it is very, very bad. For instance, the recent meatball sandwich was a joke. It was a dinner roll. The meatballs, if you can call them that, were lying in a red sauce. The meatballs were the size of an aghe I used to use when playing marbles so many years ago. They were not your traditional meatballs either, they were made from some kinda compressed meat or something. They tasted like compressed cardboard. They were no doubt delivered to the caterer in a frozen state. It is likely that most of what is fed to the senior citiziens is frozen and the caterer's job is limited to defrostering it and trying to deliver it hot.

Did I mention previously that the caterer is located in Jim Thorpe? Why would Lehigh County government contract with a caterer outside the county. Doesn't make sense to me. While the meal is relatively inexpensive, it could be said that 'you get what you pay for'. Unfortunately, the caterer is probably being overpaid. The meal program is underwritten by the state and thus, regardless of what the residents pay, the state makes up the difference from gambling revenues. Under this arrangemwnt, you would think that the food would be muchbetter and prepared closer to home. Surely there are qualified caterers in the Lehigh Valley that would like to have the contract with the county.

Even closer to home, the Cedarbrook nursing home is just a few hundred yards away from Cedar View Apartments. Cedarbrook has a chef and kitchen workers that feed over 400 people a day. Surely adding 25 to 40 people for a hot lunch would not be a major undertaking for them. But of course that is way too logical. If the system can not be changed, then serious thought must be given to finding a new caterer; one closer to home and one that actually prepares fresh vegetables, uses real meat and does more than open a can or thaw out the food it serves.

Yes, the attendance has picked up through the combined efforts of the staff, the volunteers and the residents efforts to keep it open for those that truly need a hot meal but no longer cook. But the question is; How long will the more mobile residents continue to support the effortsby eatng a meal that is barely tollerable.

Recent efforts to get county administrators to join me for lunch at Cedar View were declined by the invitees. Does that mean they would not care to dine in our dining room and eat the same food we eat? What does that suggest to you?

Cable Television

2008-01-18T19:05:00.000-05:00

"Cable Television and the Cedar View Resident."

Every apartment at the Cedar View Apartments, located in South Whitehall Township, has access to cable television. Service Electric provides the service under a contract with Lehigh County. Also, each two-room unit comes with one through-he-wall air conditioner which is included in the rent.

The charge for cable television access is billed to the resident on an annual basis at a cost of $36.00, payable in January of each year. This is certainly a fair and very reasonable rate for basis television coverage. And one should not complain about paying it in a once per year lump sum. Although, if my math is correct, this does amount to $7,200 a year; a rather tidy sum.

The air conditioner installed in the living room of every apartment, as indicated, is included in the rent. A second air conditioner can be installed in the bedroom at a cost of $12.00 per month. It was only $10.00 and was billed quarterly. This changed at some point with an increase to $12.00. The amount seems somewhat arbitrary as there is no way to measure one's use of a second air conditioner, but we'll accept that it is fair and just. The problem is that in 2007 they changed the billing cycle to twice a year at $66.00 each (Feb & Aug). Now this seems to be a fairly sizable amount to be taken out of a widow's pension in a single month.

I do not know how many units actually have a second A/C, but it is not a significant number. And when you consider that when the county changed to a twice a year payment, they also changed the method of payment to an automatic bank account deduction, the same method that is used to collect rent. So they gained efficiency by changing the method and then further reduced the effort by doing it only twice instead of four times a year. The county (and I mean the administrators on seventh street) need to understand that the tenants are their client's and some consideration should be given to the effect changes will have on the tenant and not worry quite so much about making their job easier.

My suggestion? For those tenants that have a second A/C, simply include the cost in their rent payment which is deducted from their bank account once per month. In this manner, the twice yearly payment is eliminated altogether and the tenants monthly rent increases by only $12.00 a month. It seems so obvious that one has to wonder why it is as it is. The suggested solution eliminates the extra work and eliminates the onerous payment that is a burden to the tenant.

Rent Determination

2008-01-18T16:35:00.001-05:00

Rent Determination, a term that strikes fear into the hearts of every Cedar View resident and the management staff as well. It happens every year and begins in mid December and last well into late February. Rent Determination is the method employed by Cedar View management to determine the rent that the tenants will pay for the following twelve months. The county uses a formula that is a percentage of net income and assets held by the tenant. The formula has a built in increase so that even if net income remains constant, the tenants rent will go up. Bear in mind that the formula uses net income which provides for deductions for medical insurance, co-pays, etc.

Why is it dreaded? Well, the primary reason is that it means another automatic increase in the tenants rent, which gobbles up a fair portion of the anticipated increase from Social Security. It also means that the tenant has to gather various documents verifying income from Social Security, bank or savings account interest, stocks, bonds and 401K's, etc. This information is passed to the office which makes copies to be used in determining rent payments. The man-hours expended by management staff is not insignificant. Additional help is required in the office for two full months and that help comes from the Senior Center Manager, which in turn requires that a substitute center manager must be brought in. This is an additional source of disruption and confusion.

One must ask the question, does the individual tenants income and assets base change enough from one year to the next to warrant all this effort once every year? Could not the management staff's time be put to a better and more productive use? Has anyone considered changing the "Rent Determination" to an every other year schedule? Or perhaps, better yet, make the determination for only half the residents by alternating every other year. This would cut back the effort by half and affect only half the tenants on an annual basis. This would certainly be less problematic for the tenants of Cedar View.

Cedar View Senior Center

2008-01-18T14:15:00.000-05:00

Cedar View Apartments, the home of some 210 Lehigh County residents, is fortunate to have a "Senior Center" on the premises. The Senior Center provides activities such as exercise classes, games, movies and guest speakers. But perhaps the most important of it's services is that the Senior Center manager along with 3 or 4 volunteers, serve a hot nutritious lunch to the Cedar View residents and other elderly citizens from the surrounding community.

The meal is provided by a contract caterer employed by the county and the cost of the service is offset by the State utilizing monies derived from lottery sales. Although the senior citizens that participate in this service are asked to pay upwards of $2.00 for the lunch, in fact any donation less than that amount is acceptable. The service requires a minimum of twenty people each day the meal is served and advance reservations are required. You wouldn't think that it would be difficult to get twenty tenants to sign up for a good hot meal. Yet, people have heard rumors of cold food or that it did not taste good. Frankly, this is all hooey.

If you haven't tried it you can not very well be the judge of whether it is good or not. I have tried it and I have yet to be disappointed. It was everything I could expect and more. If you haven't tried it yet, don't take my word for it, sign up and try it for yourself.

Christmas Greetings 2007

2007-12-24T17:45:00.000-05:00

Wishing You and Yours a
Very Happy Holiday Season