I've heard nothing but sweet things about the Christkindlmarkt display and shopping since I moved here last year. So this year I was determined to give it a try. What a waste! You are all totally wrong.

It was nice but not $6 to get in nice. I could have gone to see a movie or had lunch out for that money. What is the reason that I would want to pay to shop? If there was some kind of incentive like a free commemorative ornament with admission or some kind of free food samples, that might make it worth the money. As it is, however, it's no wonder that the place is teaming with small children and old ladies holding each other up so neither of them fall down.

I think it's wonderful to support local artists but I think I'd have been more inclined to actually buy something if I hadn't already blown my smallish wad at the door.

- Judianne

For some reason, the time between Halloween and Thanksgiving always has nothing going on. It’s like everyone’s resting up for the madness that starts on Thanksgiving and runs till just after New Year’s. Maybe that’s a good idea - there's a powerhouse trio of holidays there that brings us all closer to permanent liver damage each year.

That doesn’t mean it has to be boring though - this time is a good opportunity to check out some of the smaller things going on. Lots of local galleries are running new exhibits or offering last chances at closing ones. Keep an eye out for small venue performances by lots of local musicians. Just because there aren’t any huge festivals or concerts doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do. Take some time to discover some of the smaller events the area has to offer.

    -Tucker

Now that everyone else has gotten Katrina out of their "media system," Allentown is stepping up to bring the cause back to light. While the rest of the world has moved on to other important tragedies to address and yet our hometown crew is still pushing for events to raise money for the displaced. Good show, I say. Just because three hurricanes have passed since doesn't mean that we can just forget about all those people who are still homeless and hungry.

So, hit the City to City event this weekend and show that you care even without the hype.