We represent your mothers, sisters and daughters, and no matter who she is, she is that to someone. So treat us all the way you would like to see those people treated. And if you are a woman, respect your fellow woman. Have some understanding for your sista’s because we all go through the same crap! We all handle it differently of course, but if we all strive to come from a place of love and mutual respect, maybe we could be more united.

To touch on a touchy subject real quick, I would like to mention that using words like “slut” and “whore” and others that are similar, set us all back. Be the beacon of progress and join hands with cities, like Philadelphia and New York, which have adopted more forward thinking values where women are allowed sex lives and the freedom to live it however they want! Shaming a woman into thinking she's a slut is harmful and based on Christianity as interpreted by men over centuries and centuries. Be bigger than that.

And to men—we are here to live our own lives. If you feel the need to make advances on someone who is clearly uncomfortable, move on. Even weak resistance will make you look like a crybaby and will be a huge turnoff. The same goes for women. If a dude tries to get too close and you don't like it, say something! Be part of the solution. Stand up for yourself. This is 2012!

Here is a list of some prominent women, with whom I enjoy sharing the town, and am often in awe of their resilience and ability to withstand the difficult times we all sometimes face.

Hannae and Renee of The SAS
They've pushed through year after year bringing us Indie marts, bands, artists and films without advertising or selling out. They define "underground" and make living here that much cooler! Thank you, ladies!

Natalie from “The Mix”
She has taken a publication that was ready to be put to bed and turned it around making it a showcase of local talent and cool people! Thank you!!

Loly Reynolds of C.A.B.
and the Downtown Bethlehem Association (DBA)
Not sure if you noticed, but girlfriend has been working her butt off changing the face of First Fridays one month at a time by making them much more exciting and fun! Thank you!

Samantha Beedle of
Drink 'N' Draw
Every month she brings us a unique and fun event that helps people overcome feelings of insecurity with their bodies as well as giving artists an opportunity to cultivate their craft. She does this on her own and has withstood her business partner moving out of state and locations going out of business. Yet she never misses a beat! Thank you Sam!

Kitty Kat Kailei of the
This is My Body Project
This girl is changing the world by asking people to submit photos of the body parts they feel insecure about with the words "This Is My Body" written across it. It was inspired by some cyber-bullies who anonymously told her she was too fat and ugly to be a model. This is a moving and incredibly inspiring project. Please support it!

Mary from Ostara
This woman is pure magic. She brings nothing but love, wisdom, the power of the earth, ritual, and of following the moon, to anyone who walks through the doors of her shop. She is a shining star that proves Bethlehem to be a city of diversity and acceptance of all types of people, with open minds and hearts.

There are many more, but for now I'd like to say go forth and prosper! Happy New Year! This year let's try to be forgiving, understanding and forward thinking. We can all help each other do it. Come on. Let's do it—okay??