A weekend spent in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania comes with no shortage of creative arts & culture, historical centerpieces, regional culinary experiences, and nightlife. Visiting Philadelphia, the fifth largest city in the United States, is a great chance to step back into pivotal moments in the nation’s history, while also embracing its current flare for modernity. With just one weekend to tap into the feel of the city of brotherly love, Philadelphia easily shows its true colors of vibrancy on each face and personality that makes the city tick.

Philadelphia’s mix of modern streets and old world charm of cobblestone walkways paves the way for an easily approachable and walkable city. Taking a stroll around the famed Independence National Historical Park is a must when visiting for the first time. Whether a history buff or a visitor wanting a taste of the city’s rich historical past, this one square mile of Philadelphia showcases nationally important aspects of the country’s foundation.

Located within the area is the Liberty Bell Center, where people can read their way through an informative museum of its importance as an icon of American independence. This eventually leads visitors to the Liberty Bell itself; the bell is surely one of the most well known and visited attractions in the city.

Just across the street from the Liberty Bell Center is Independence Hall. Widely important in American history, Independence Hall is the spot where American forefathers created both the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution. A tour of this area allows visitors to get a sense of how the country began to take shape in the very room where these important documents were created. While tickets are required to visit Independence Hall, admission to both Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell Center is free.

After walking around the historical section, a stop for lunch at one of Stephan Starr’s many restaurants can give a visitor a local sense of current Philadelphia food trends. As one of the leaders in Philadelphia’s thriving culinary industry, Stephen Starr has created a host of modern restaurants, each with a distinct atmosphere and equally impressive menu.

For a taste into this restaurateur’s vision, head over to Continental Midtown where Starr has taken an approach with the retro décor of America’s past, along with a menu that fuses America’s favorite dishes with international flavors. The swanky, stylish approach of the restaurant’s space matches the menu. Located just steps away from Rittenhouse Square, Continental Midtown is an ideal spot to enjoy a lunch of lobster mac and cheese, a Muffaletta sandwich, or Asian chicken salad. More of Starr’s famed restaurants dotting the city are Buddakan, Alma de Cuba, Morimoto, and El Rey.

With a delicious meal under your belt, it could be time to walk it off, or in this case, run it off, on the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. These famous steps, made widely known from a scene in Rocky, brings in visitors and locals alike to not only enjoy the backdrop of the popular movie, but also the large collection of art within the museum’s walls.

With artwork spanning over 2,000 years in history, the Philadelphia Museum of Art stands as one of the largest and most important art collections in the United States. Over 200,000 objects are held in the museum in collections coming from all reaches of the world, including Medieval Europe, Asia, and the United States. The museum showcases galleries of modern and contemporary art, costumes & textiles, and arms & armor as well. With adult admission at $14, the Philadelphia Museum of Art is a huge masterpiece of work that simply should not be overlooked.

Reading Terminal Market is a hub of local Philadelphian food and flavors, and a perfect place to have a more casual dinner. With over one hundred food stands and merchants in the famed market, it is an excellent way to sample the region’s popular dishes. Opened in 1893, Reading Terminal Market offers a wide range of meat, seafood, poultry, baked goods, and Amish specialties. Taking a walk through the market’s bustling aisles is an exploration of Philadelphia’s diverse culinary selections from Asian to Middle Eastern, Indian to Italian.

One spot which is almost impossible to miss from its wrap around line is DiNic’s. Centrally located within Reading Terminal Market, DiNic’s recently won the title of best sandwich in America. Crowned this special award by Travel Channel’s Adam Richman, people eagerly wait in the lengthy line to taste DiNic’s famed roast pork sandwich. Juicy cuts of the meat are stuffed in a hoagie and served with a choice of cheese, peppers, and greens. For sweet treats after devouring DiNic’s, head over to Sweet as Fudge Candy Shoppe or Flying Monkey Patisserie for a sugar lover’s dream.

After a night out in Old City, a neighborhood in Philadelphia known for its nightlife and bars, spending a relaxing morning walking around Philadelphia is a great way to start the day. A unique art exhibit that can literally be seen all around the streets of Philadelphia is the Mural Arts Program. Started in 1984, this program set out to create and design large murals on the sides of buildings across the whole city. Through this creative program, Philadelphia has become the number one city of mural art in the world, with over 3,500 murals in the area. Donned the “City of Murals,” a walk around Philadelphia will surely lead any local or visitor to spot some of these large paintings, and is considered a free and fun way of exploring the city’s creative side.

For a family friendly approach to Philadelphia, a trip to the Philadelphia Zoo is a must. Running until November 25, 2012, the Philadelphia Zoo is showcasing the Trail of the Lorax, in partnership with Dr. Seuss. Using 3D glasses, children are able to follow a trail around the zoo and ultimately find a 3,000 square foot learning center and play environment.

In conjunction with the zoo spending 2012 focusing on the “Year of the Orangutan,” the Trail of the Lorax incorporates educational opportunities for children to learn about the future of this animal. The Philadelphia Zoo is an entertaining way to spend an afternoon spotting out monkeys, zebras, and giraffes, among dozens of other animals. Children can hop on a camel or pony for a ride, while the whole family can enjoy a swan boat ride. Admission for adults is $18 and tickets for children over age two are $15.

But let’s face it, a trip to Philadelphia wouldn’t quite be complete without a taste of possibly its most famous culinary claim to fame: the cheesesteak. The two legendary big players in the world of cheesesteaks are Pat’s King of Steaks and Geno’s Steaks, conveniently located just across the street from each other. Since 1930, Pat’s King of Steaks has been serving up their mouthwatering cheesesteaks and holds the title of the first cheesesteak in town. A main difference between the two popular cheesesteak spots is the way each establishment prepares the meat.

While Pat’s King of Steaks chops its meat, Geno’s Steaks slices its meat. With choices of cheese, including provolone or whiz, and the option of having it topped with onions, there are some variations to how the cheesesteak can be ordered. The sandwich undeniably stands as one of the most favored local eats. Philadelphians often claim allegiance to either Pat’s King of Steaks or Geno’s Steaks, but with such close proximity, it is easy for a visitor to taste both at the same time and decide for themselves which is truly their favorite.

The city of brotherly love combines a flavor of local cuisine, historical importance, and arts & culture to make a diversely rich cosmopolitan city. Located in close proximity to both New York City and Washington D.C., Philadelphia is a world class destination that is easily accessible and welcoming. Whether staying for a week or just a weekend in this city, it is easy to see its unique character in the people and kind of thriving energy they bring together make up the city as a whole.

Image Courtesy of  spirit of america / Shutterstock.com

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For a first time traveler or a seasoned visitor to Philadelphia, a stay at the Radisson Plaza-Warwick Hotel hits all the right spots in terms of hospitality and comfort. Centrally located just a stone’s throw away from Rittenhouse Square, the Radisson Plaza-Warwick Hotel embraces the historical and cultural heritage of Philadelphia while offering a modern and luxurious atmosphere. As one of the landmarks in the city, the hotel was built in 1926 and is currently listed on the National Register of Historic Places. A building with such a distinct personality is the perfect spot to rest after a long day of sightseeing throughout the city of brotherly love.

Upon entering the Radisson Plaza-Warwick Hotel, it is easy to be taken aback by its grand lobby. Its nearly all-white, elegant entrance gives way to high ceilings, painted sky blue to imitate the clear skies outside. A single, stunning chandelier hangs as a centerpiece in the lobby, giving visitors a sense of luxury while still making them feel welcome.

The lobby gives hints to the stylish and modern décor found in all of the hotel’s 301 guest rooms. One of the most apparent features of the guest rooms at the Radisson Plaza-Warwick Hotel is the sheer size. While a large size room is sometimes hard to come by in other well known hotels, there is no shortage of space here. Standard rooms come with an array of modern amenities, including a 32 inch LCD HD television, complimentary wi-fi, coffee maker, alarm clock with iPod docking station, in room safe, and bathroom toiletries, among many other features that make a stay at this hotel very comfortable.

The Radisson Plaza-Warwick doesn’t hold back, making sure all its guests feel welcome and taken care of during their stay. For those who don’t want to miss out on their daily workouts, a new state of the art, 2,000 square foot fitness center is available. Including ellipticals, bikes, and treadmills with personal LCD televisions, as well as weight machines and free weights, a visit to the fitness center is a great place for anyone looking to get a good workout. Additionally, the hotel takes its smoke free policy seriously, making sure all rooms and suites are smoke free as well as its outside grounds. Smoking is only permitted 50 feet away from the building. If traveling with a favorite four legged friend, pets are openly welcome at the Radisson Plaza-Warwick Hotel. The hotel has designated one floor of its building for guests who want to bring their pets with them, for an extra charge of $50, plus $10 per night occupancy rate.

Aside from the elegant comforts of the guest suites, the Radisson Plaza-Warwick Hotel also boasts three restaurants within the building. With choices from a quick grab and go coffee bar to more sophisticated dining options, the hotel gives its guests a variety of places to choose from when hungry. The Coffee Bar’s menu focuses on light snacks and meals that guests can take with them on the go, including a breakfast of bagels and croissants, smoked salmon or California turkey sandwiches for lunch, or sweet cakes and brownies as a sugary treat. Aside from the delicious food, The Coffee Bar also stocks great morning cups of coffee to get the day started, as well as a beer and wine selection.

Located right off of the lobby is Tavern 17, the Radisson Plaza-Warwick Hotel’s contemporary restaurant, offering a breakfast buffet, brunch, and dinner. The chefs at Tavern 17 take pride in using only the freshest ingredients to create mouth watering dishes, including a wild mushroom and goat cheese omelet for brunch or a barbeque salmon with mashed potatoes and roasted tomato salad for dinner. The restaurant’s happy hour is one not to be missed, with $2 off all draft beers, as well as $2 cheeseburger sliders and $5 crab and avocado. Tavern 17 has an extensive wine and beer menu to choose from, as well as small plates to snack on while having a cocktail.

For the steak lover visiting Philadelphia, the Radisson Plaza-Warwick Hotel’s business casual restaurant, Prime Rib, is one not to be overlooked. Philadelphia Magazine awarded Prime Rib a “Best of Philly” recognition for its juicy menu, including a USDA prime filet mignon and a 32 ounce prime rib. Fresh seafood is also available on the menu, and with a pianist tickling away at a piano nightly, Prime Rib is sure to give an elegant and sophisticated meal and ambiance.

Not only does the Radisson Plaza-Warwick Hotel make sure guests are completely taken care of in terms of amenities and dining options, the hotel also takes positive steps towards maintaining its Eco-friendly environment. Awarded a 4 key rating from the Green Key Eco-Rating Program, the Radisson Plaza-Warwick Hotel continues to utilize its Eco-friendly hospitality and service to better the local community and environment.

With its centralized downtown location near shopping and entertainment, award winning recognition for its services and dining, as well as its combination of modern and elegant features make a stay at the Radisson Plaza-Warwick Hotel a comfortable and memorable time. Visitors can enjoy the history and charm of Philadelphia while knowing they have a restful night’s stay waiting for them at the hotel when they return from a day of sightseeing.

For more information on making a reservation, visit Radisson Plaza-Warwick Hotel.

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Washington, U.S.A. – The Oneida Indian Nation will announce an extraordinary monetary gift to The American Revolution Center that will support the construction of The Museum of the American Revolution to be built in the historic area of Philadelphia. This gift comes as a response to the $40M challenge grant announced by H.F. (Gerry) Lenfest in June 2012.

The Oneidas were among the very few Native American nations to join forces with the Continental Army, fighting side-by-side with General Washington’s troops in support of American Independence. During the ceremony, The American Revolution Center will honor the Oneida Indian Nation and recognize them for joining Mr. Lenfest and others as Founders of the new museum.

The Museum of the American Revolution will showcase an exceptional collection of Revolutionary-era arms, objects, art, printed work and manuscripts owned by The American Revolution Center, the non-profit educational organization that is building the museum. The museum will tell the complete story of the American Revolution and explore its ongoing legacy. It will act as a hub for the nation’s many Revolutionary sites, sparking interest, providing context, and encouraging explorations that begin at the museum’s doorstep.

The event will be held at Wednesday, July 11, 10:00 AM on The United States Capitol Grounds and will include such respected guests as:

• The Honorable Robert P. Casey, United States Senate
• The Honorable Patrick J. Toomey, United States Senate
• The Honorable Edward G. Rendell, former Governor, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
• Ray Halbritter, Nation Representative and CEO, Oneida Indian Nation
• H.F. (Gerry) Lenfest, Chairman, The American Revolution Center
• Michael C. Quinn, President and CEO, The American Revolution Center

About the American Revolution Center

The American Revolution Center is a non-partisan, not-for-profit organization dedicated to engaging the public in the history and enduring legacy of the American Revolution. The center will be only a few steps away from Liberty Bell and Independence Hall.

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Philadelphia, U.S.A. – As most people turn their thoughts to summer vacation, United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey and Cradles to Crayons are joining together to provide school supplies for  the upcoming school year to low-income and homeless families throughout the region. The two organizations are partnering on the 2012 Backpack-A-Thon, to fill and distribute 20,000 backpacks. The backpacks will be distributed through more than 350 social service agencies that in turn will give the backpacks to children in need, giving them resources needed to have a successful start to the school year. United Way and Cradles to Crayons will bring together more than 400 community and corporate volunteers this summer to prepare the backpacks at an event hosted by the Philadelphia Eagles.

The largest one-day back-to-school event in the region, the 2012 Backpack-A-Thon seeks to help kids start the school year off right. As the poorest of the nation’s ten largest cities, Philadelphia’s child poverty rate is the highest it’s been in 50 years. As a result, parents from economically-challenged backgrounds often find it difficult to provide their children with the most basic of needs, including school supplies. Statistics show that children from low-income communities start first grade up to two years behind their peers from moderate- to upper-income households. Allowing those children to have the tools they need to start off right – from quality early childhood education to school supplies – are just a few of the way that United Way’s Community Impact fund is put to work for our children.

United Way and Cradles to Crayons came together for the first time in 2011. Jill Michal, president and CEO of United Way of Southeastern Pennsylvania, said the partnership allows the two organizations to have a greater impact than if they did this alone.
“We’re thrilled to be able to partner with such a great organization in Cradles to Crayons – we both know that we can accomplish much more together than we can alone,” Michal said.”We know that if a child can go to school on the first day equipped with the basic tools he or she needs to learn, that child is one step closer to having a positive and productive academic experience. And kids really want what we all want – to fit in and feel secure. Starting off the school year with new pencils and notebooks like every other child is one more way to help them at least start on a level playing field.”

Michal Smith, executive director of Cradles to Crayons, agreed, adding that the collaboration will ultimately benefit children and their families.

“For years, we’ve done this work with great results, but by partnering with United Way, we’re able to reach more children with the supplies they need and through our Ready For School program, keep them filled throughout the school year.”

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Philadelphia, U.S.A – Researchers studying rare genetic disorders have uncovered insights into those diseases in biological structures that regulate chromosomes when cells divide. Focusing on the cohesin complex, a group of proteins forming a bracelet that encircles chromosome pairs, scientists have discovered mutations that disrupt cohesin, causing a recently recognized class of diseases called cohesinopathies.

“We are learning more about how these genetic abnormalities that affect cohesin play a role in human development,” said study leader Matthew A. Deardorff, M.D., Ph.D., a specialist in pediatric genetics at The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia’s Center for Cornelia deLange Syndrome and Related Diagnoses.

The research, carried out in children, cell cultures, and zebrafish, appeared May 24 in the American Journal of Human Genetics. Deardorff’s co-study leader was Frank J. Kaiser, Ph.D., of the University of Lubeck in Germany.

The cohesin complex is already known to be involved in Cornelia deLange syndrome (CdLS), a multisystem genetic disease affecting an estimated 1 in 10,000 children. The disease has a range of severity, but classically includes mental retardation, impaired growth, heart defects, feeding problems, deformed arms and hands, and distinctive facial features.

Researchers at The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia previously were the first to discover gene mutations that cause CdLS, including forms of the disease with mental retardation and often severe limb abnormalities. The current study identified another gene, RAD21, that when mutated, causes very mild cognitive and physical impairments.

The study team first performed a genome-wide analysis of 101 children with typical CdLS and 189 children having overlapping features of the disease. None of the children had mutations in the three genes already known to cause CdLS. They identified a six-year-old boy with a deletion in a section of chromosome 8 that contains the RAD21 gene, which was known to express a cohesin protein but not previously known to cause disease. As an infant, the boy had been diagnosed with facial features similar to those of CdLS, and subsequently experienced growth retardation, but had normal cognitive development.

The researchers then focused on three additional children with deletions in RAD21 and two children with mutations within the gene, and found a similar pattern—physical features, such as short stature and distinctive facial features, overlapping with some of those seen in cohesin disorders, but with only minor cognitive delays. “These findings suggest that children who are very mildly affected may go undiagnosed,” said Deardorff.

The research team did further studies in cell cultures and a zebrafish model to investigate molecular mechanisms involved in cohesin disorders. The cohesin complex includes four proteins that join in a bracelet-like structure that surrounds sister chromatids, the identical pairs that result from chromosome duplication prior to cell division. RAD21, the protein expressed by the gene with the same name, forms a clasp that closes the bracelet. A mutated RAD21 gene weakens that clasp, impairing cohesion’s normal abilities to repair damage to DNA.

However, Deardorff added, the lab research does not currently explain the full sequence of molecular events, and further studies will investigate knowledge gaps in the process.

As the cost of whole-genome sequencing is rapidly dropping, Deardorff expects researchers to discover additional genes involved in cohesinopathies, offering further clues to how these diseases function in human development. “For now we can expect that patients with the RAD21 mutation will be less severely affected than those with classical CdLS,” he said. “As we better understand the mechanisms of these congenital diseases, we’ll continue to seek opportunities to devise more effective treatments.”

The National Institutes of Health, the U.S.A. Cornelia deLange Syndrome Foundation, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and the University of Lubeck were among the organizations supporting this study.

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New York, U.S.A - Thirty years after its eponymous debut album, ASIA ascended to the top of the Billboard Top 100 chart (where it remained No.1 for nine consecutive weeks), the legendary British classic rock band (with all original members Geoff Downes, Steve Howe, Carl Palmer & John Wetton) returns with a brand new studio album, a 30th Anniversary edition of their debut album, 2 DVDs, and a world tour.

ASIA will release their new studio album “XXX” (pronounced Triple X) on Frontiers Records on July 3, 2012.  The new record, produced by Mike Paxman, is being hailed as ASIA’s best album since its classic early 80s releases, and features original artwork by Roger Dean.

The first single taken from the highly anticipated new album is entitled “Face on The Bridge”, released worldwide on May 14, 2012. The video clip can be seen on YouTube.

“We’re very pleased with, and confident about XXX,” says John Wetton. “It encapsulates, lyrically and instrumentally, the essence of ASIA today.  However, it is the very same four people that gave you the original, iconic album 30 years ago.  If you loved it then, you will love it now.”

“We wanted to recapture the energy of the first album,” adds ASIA’s guitarist, Steve Howe. “ASIA has always been about great songs, and fantastic musicianship. I’m sure fans of the first album, will fall in love with XXX.” In addition ASIA has also completed “Resonance”, a DVD concert film of the group’s 2010/2011 Omega World Tour, captured live in Switzerland which will be released later in the fall.

To celebrate their 30th Anniversary, ASIA will release a collector’s edition box set based on their legendary 1982 eponymous debut album, including 2 audio CDs (a re-mastered edition of the debut album, plus a CD of live rare tracks), an expansive historical booklet, a limited edition ASIA T-shirt, items from ASIA’s 1982 tour, plus a DVD of the new band documentary: ASIA - 30 Years On.  A newly commissioned painting by Roger Dean updates the symbolic dragon and pearl from 1982 to 2012.

2012 North American tour dates so far:

Oct 17 - Red Bank, NJ, Count Basie
Oct 18 - Boston, MA, Wilbur Theater
Oct 19 - Westbury, NY, Westbury Theater
Oct 20 - Philadelphia, PA, Keswick
Oct 21 - Wilmington, DE, Opera House
Oct 23 - Verona, NY, Turning Stone Casino
Oct 25 - Ridgefield, CT, Ridgefield Playhouse
Oct 26 - Uncasville, CT, Mohegan Sun
Oct 27 – NY, NY, Best Buy Theater
Oct 28 - York, PA, Strand Capital
Oct 30 - Annapolis, MD, Rams Head On Stage
Nov 01 - Royal Oak, MI, Royal Oak
Nov 02 - St. Charles, IL, Arcada Theatre
Nov 03 - Sloan, IA, Winnavegas Casino Showroom
Nov 08 - Santa Ynez, CA, Chumash Casino
Nov 09 - Agoura Hills, CA, Canyon Club
Nov 10 - Las Vegas, NV, Green Valley Casino
Nov 11 - San Juan Capistrano, CA, Coach House
Nov 13 - Scottsdale, AZ, Talking Stick Casino
Nov 16 - Dallas, TX, Granada Theater
Nov 17 - Austin, TX, One World Theatre (2 shows)
Nov 20 - Clearwater, FL , Capitol Theatre
Nov 21 - Orlando, FL, Fl Plaza Theatre
Nov 23 - Manistee, MI, Little River Casino Resort

Image Courtesy of   Original Asia

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Philadelphia, U.S.A. – Researchers studying the molecular signals that drive a specific type of lymphoma have discovered a key biological pathway leading to this type of cancer. Cancerous cells have been described as being “addicted” to certain oncogenes (cancer-causing genes), and the new research may lay the groundwork for breaking that addiction and effectively treating aggressive types of B cell lymphoma.

B cell lymphomas, which occur both in children and adults, are cancers that attack B cells in the immune system.

“Our research suggests ways to devise more specific therapies to selectively kill tumor cells in a subset of lymphomas,” said study leader Andrei Thomas-Tikhonenko, Ph.D., an oncology researcher at The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.

The study, conducted in animal cells and human cell cultures, appeared May 1 in The Journal of Clinical Investigation.

An oncogene is a type of gene that normally produces a protein active in cell growth or regulation. However, when the gene is mutated or otherwise overproduced, it can cause cancer. One family of oncogenes is called MYC, and the current study focused on how the MYC oncogene drives B cell lymphoma. MYC codes for Myc, a type of protein called a transcription factor. At high levels, MYC causes the uncontrolled cell growth that is a hallmark of cancer.

The researchers focused on the crucial role of the cell surface receptor CD19, a protein residing on the surface of all B cells that normally recognizes foreign invaders. “We found that CD19 is absolutely required to stabilize the Myc protein,” said Thomas-Tikhonenko. “When Myc is stable and present in high levels, it fuels cancer.” Patients with high levels of the Myc protein are more likely to die of lymphoma.

Patients with high levels of Myc also had high levels of CD19, and the current study describes a previously unknown molecular pathway that depends on CD19. It also implicates CD19 as a molecular on-off switch on that pathway. Usually, said Thomas-Tikhonenko, when you inhibit one pathway, another pathway compensates to produce the same end result. But in this case, there is no such redundant pathway: “Without CD19, there is no Myc,” he added, “so controlling that on-off switch could represent a powerful tool against lymphoma.”

The findings are particularly relevant, said Thomas-Tikhonenko, to current oncology clinical trials that are testing antibodies that act broadly against the CD19 receptor. Such antibodies kill all B cells, and thus weaken the immune system. His study suggests that understanding the CD19 pathway could enable researchers to design a more specific therapy that selectively kills tumor cells while sparing healthy B cells.

Further studies in his lab, he added, will further investigate these molecular pathways and how to translate this knowledge into future anti-cancer treatments.

The National Institutes of Health, the V Foundation and the W.W. Smith Charitable Trust supported this study. In addition, a co-author, Elaine Y. Chung, Ph.D., was a fellow of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Other co-authors, all from Children’s Hospital, were James N. Psathas, Ph.D., Duonan Yu, M.D., Ph.D., Yimei Li, Ph.D., and Mitchell J. Weiss, M.D., Ph.D.

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New York, U.S.A. – The PATS survey confirms that teen boys are leading the overall increases in marijuana use. Past year use among teen boys is up 24% (from 34% in 2008 to 42% in 2011) and past month use among teen boys is up 38% (from 21% in 2008 to 29% in 2011).

Additionally, boys’ heavy use – smoking marijuana at least 20 times a month – is higher than that of their female counterparts (11% for teen boys versus 6% for teen girls) and boys’ heavy marijuana use is up an alarming 57%, from 7 percent in 2008 to 11% in 2011.

According to the new data, half of Hispanic teens (50%) report that they have used marijuana in the past year (versus 40% for African Americans and 35% for Caucasians). This means Hispanic teens are nearly twice as likely (43%) as Caucasian teens to have smoked marijuana in the past year (50% versus 35%) and 25% more likely than African-American teens.

The study also found that fewer teen girls are abusing Rx medications. Teen girls’ abuse of a prescription drug “to get high or alter your mood” is down 30% since 2010 (from 23% in 2010 to 16%in 2011) and is down a total of 24% since 2009 (21% in 2009). Rx drug abuse among teen boys has remained relatively flat over the same time period.

Teens are starting to view medicine abuse as less socially acceptable and the percentage of teens who “strongly disapprove” of peers using prescription drugs to get high has gone up significantly – from 52% in 2010 to 58%in 2011. Fewer also say it’s “very” or “fairly” easy for teens to get prescription pain relievers, down 25%from 57% in 2008 to 43% in 2011.

“This data set the scene for a ‘perfect storm’ that will threaten the health of a generation of American teens” said Pasierb. “Science has shown that adolescent brains are still developing and are more easily harmed by drug and alcohol use than fully developed adult brains.

Dramatic increases in teen marijuana use, coupled with entrenched behavior of abuse of Rx and OTC drugs, puts teens at greater risk for substance use disorders, academic decline and other problems. With government budgets slashing the national prevention infrastructure and many prevention programs already eliminated, parents must step up to fill those voids, to protect their children’s health and futures.”

New Resource for Parents to Help Prevent Adolescent Drug and Alcohol Use in Their Families
The Partnership at Drugfree.org, in collaboration with the Philadelphia-based Treatment Research Institute (TRI), has released a new tool to help parents and caregivers possibly prevent adolescent drug and alcohol problems. The ” Six Components of Effective Parenting,” based on scientific research, is the product of the new Parents Translational Research Center – a National Institute on Drug Abuse-funded center involving The Partnership at Drugfree.org and TRI.

The resource is comprised of “how-to” parenting tips organized around six principles specifically designed for parents, guardians and other caregivers who can play an active role in helping prevent substance abuse in their families.

The Partnership at Drugfree.org is launching a first-of-its-kind, week-long public education and mobilization campaign, “Wake Up to Medicine Abuse,” in the fall 2012. This initiative will bring the public and private sectors together in a national education effort and call to action to curb the abuse of medicine, one of the biggest drug problems in the United States today.

“Wake Up to Medicine Abuse Week” will take place September 23-29, 2012, and will both encourage and help parents and the public-at-large to take action: first, by talking with the kids in their lives about the dangers of abusing Rx and OTC medicines, and second, by safeguarding and properly disposing of unused medications.

Image Courtesy of  arindambanerjee / Shutterstock.com

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On Sunday, April 29^th the Fairmount Neighborhood of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania came alive with art. About 45 different businesses, from private businesses like Luigi’s Pizza Fresca to the Eastern State Penitentiary, were transformed into art exhibits for this four hour event. This annual art exhibition attracts over 4000 guests each year, targeting the young and young at heart to explore the realms of the art community.

Around 78 artists appeared at the Arts Crawl this year, from all different mediums including paint, sculpture, bookbinding, 3D art and photography. All of these were local artists, most of which made appearances to talk about their work. Alison Dilworth, for example, had her own exhibition at La Calaca Feliz. Dilworth discussed her Day of the Dead themed murals that are now featured on the restaurant’s walls.

Fairmount spiced up their Arts Crawl with brand new events for 2012, accommodating more of the community and allowing amateur artists and students to have their art displayed. The Artist Alley, down 22^nd street between Fairmount and Aspen, allowed an outdoor display of art to provide space for more artists than ever before. Nine Moore College of Art and Design graduate students displayed their work, hosted by the Ukrainian League of Philadelphia.

They had the opportunity to discuss and sell their work, from encaustics to video. The George Apotsos Gallery displayed the art of eight core members of the new art-loving community Fairmount Artist Network. Live music from local bands filled the streets, and swing dancing lessons were available to anyone who wanted to participate.

The emphasis of the event was on the children, inspiring them to create and appreciate art. In Artists Alley, kids could watch Young Rembrandt’s Drawing Demos, participate in Monster Murals Coloring and receive Balloon art. They could also get help from a Blue Moon Muralist to create their own Blue Moon art, emphasizing the artistic approach to brewing that the company advocates.

At the Bache Martin Elementary School, student art was on display among various activities for kids, such as drawing, finger painting and collage. They displayed information on all student art programs with these exhibitions, allowing the chance to sign up for one of the classes. The Fairmount Art Center and the Fare Restaurant let children of all ages explore the world of music through listening to foreign music.

They could make their own beats with the help of elementary school teachers Cameron DeWhitt and Emily Bate, who led the students with singing, instruments and dancing. At the Philadelphia Museum of Art, at the Perelman Building, presented by PNC Arts Alive, kids could create their own art with a multitude of different medias and tour The Secret Garden display.

2012 Fairmount Arts Crawl is only one of the events inspiring art in children and young adults. Many other art exhibitions are taking steps toward a new generation of art lovers and appreciators.

Image Courtesy of   Fairmount CDC

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The Philadelphia Flyers scored three goals in the first period on Wednesday to beat the Buffalo Sabres 3-2 in their first matchup since their Eastern Conference quarterfinal last season.

Scott Hartnell, Sean Couturier and James van Riemsdyk scored early in the first period of play for the Flyers, making the Sabres have to exchange goalie Ryan Miller after 11 shots for backup goalie Jhonas Enroth. Flyers goaltender Ilya Bryzgalov came out of the game with 29 saves. The last time Miller was pulled due to a poor performance was after allowing four goals in one period at Florida on Dec. 17, 2010

“We were really peppering him early,” Hartnell said in an interview with Fox Sports after the game. ”Against a top goalie like that, to get him out of there, it was pretty good for us to get pucks on net.”

The rest of the game was played with the Flyers on the defensive; by the end of the game, Enroth only saw 15 shots. Sabres Andrej Sekera was able to score in the second period, ending Bryzgalov’s shutout opportunity. The Flyers also spent the whole period in the penalty box, collecting 23 penalty minutes mostly due to a 10 minute misconduct penalty on Zac Rinaldo.

Luke Adam scored eight minutes into the third period, bringing the Sabres one goal away from tying up the game and a needed overtime. However, the Flyers were able to hold off or interrupt any offensive attempts for the rest of the game.

“Everyone battled hard and we were rewarded with two points,” Bryzgalov said. ”It was a really tough game for us. We played very good in the first period, but then in the second period we turned over the puck and got some penalties.

The Philadelphia Flyers (7-4-1) travel back home to face the New Jersey Devils on Thursday, while the Buffalo Sabres (6-5-0) get to welcome the Calgary Flames on Friday.

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With three weeks of the preseason finished and the starters sitting for the entire fourth game this week against the Philadelphia Eagles it’s time to look ahead to the regular season. The Jets are on a Super Bowl or bust mission this season, but can they really make it there or are they all talk.

Going into this season the Jets have a lot of question marks, but they have a ton of upside and the results could culminate in winning it all. Some of the big questions for the team are: How much depth do they have on the O-line?

Will Mark Sanchez continue to improve in his third season and take the steps he is expected to take and become the leader the team needs? How will Sanchez and his new look receiving core gel and how quickly?

Will Shonn Greene be able to perform at a high level as the feature back all season? Can they generate any QB pressure without a prolific pass rusher? Will the two rookies Mohammad Wilkerson and Kendrick Ellis be able to contribute in their rookie years?

While this may seem like a lot of questions as well as key ones, and most of them having to do with the offense, the Jets looked good overall in their preseason campaign. It seemed like what the team needed was just more time as with every game a different problem would arise. Against the Texans the line couldn’t protect Sanchez, against the Bengals they couldn’t run the ball, and against the Giants they couldn’t pass.

The one thing that has been consistent for the Jets in the preseason is their defense. The starting unit has only allowed 10 points in the 3 preseason games.

Rex Ryan, who usually doesn’t hesitate to gush about his defense said on Tuesday, “”Will we end up being the best defense in football? I think so. I challenge everybody: Put your negatives comments out there and we’ll see what happens in the end, because I think our defense is going to be outstanding.”

“I wouldn’t trade this defense for anybody’s in the league.”

The Jets defense is definitely poised to be a top 3 if not best defense in the league with 10 returning starters and 9 of the 10 having 2 years under Rex Ryan’s defense which should mean less communication breakdowns than there have been. The Jets also have 10 defensive backs who have played in the system which should help the continuity of the secondary.

For the first time in his tenure with the Jets OLB Calvin Pace will play in the first game. He missed the first month of 2009 due to suspension and 2010 due to a broken foot. Pace is the teams best pass rusher and having him from the start should help the defense overall.

Another big difference from last year is the status of CB Darrelle Revis. He’s participated fully in training camp and is in top shape this year as opposed to last year having held out all of the preseason. That probably led to his slow start and the hamstring injury he suffered in Week 2.

With the defense looking to be in top form and help carry the Jets there season really comes down to the continued development of Mark Sanchez. He showed how good there offense can be against the Bengals, but also how inconsistent as we saw against the Giants.

If Mark Sanchez continues to take steps forward, Shonn Greene steps up to the challenge of being a featured back in the NFL, and the Jets D can dominate like they have the past two years the Jets look to be on their way to a potential Superbowl title.

So the big question on all Jets fans minds and many people around the NFL this season is this: Will the Jets be flying high or crashing and burning when its all said and done with?

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The Philadelphia Phillies have lived up to expectations so far this season with their excellent pitching staff and are tied for the best record in the major leagues. The Phillies are 15-7 going in to Tuesday night and have allowed only 73 runs, tied with the Oakland Athletics for least in baseball.

Their pitching has been excellent, but the staff has had to perform with little run support. The Phillies have only scored 95 runs which putting them directly in the middle of all teams and 28 runs behind the major-league-leading Cincinnati Reds. The offensive struggles have hit hard over the last month with a lineup that has yet to see All-star second baseman Chase Utley who has been sidelined by injury. The Phillies haven’t scored more than four runs in a game since April 10. But the pitching staff has stood strong and their four aces have gone 10-4 on the season. Roy Halladay is 3-1, Cliff Lee is 2-2, Roy Oswalt is 3-0, and Cole Hamels 2-1.

The awards the rotation can boast are also astounding. Halladay won the Cy Young as the best pitcher in his league in both 2003 and 2010. Lee won the Cy Young in 2008, Oswalt won the NLCS MVP in 2005 and Hamels won the NLCS and World Series MVP in 2008. These pitchers are all in the primes of their careers and pitching at the top of their games. Halladay and Oswalt are both 33, Lee is 32, and Hamels, the youngest of the bunch is 27. The Phillies also have a capable fifth starter in Joe Blanton and occasionally Kyle Kendrick.

On the season the rotation has continued to stack up against the competition making it one of the best rotations in baseball. Halladay is second in the NL with three wins, first in innings pitched at 37.1, second in strikeouts with 39, and first with one complete game. Halladay also has an ERA of 2.41 and has allowed just one homerun in his five starts. Lee is tied with Halladay for second in the NL with 39 strikeouts, and tied for most complete games with one. Oswalt is tied with Halladay for second most wins in the NL at 3, and boasts the highest winning percentage with no losses. Oswalt also has a miniscule ERA at 1.88 and opponents are batting just .179 against him. Hamels has 26 strikeouts and boasts an ERA of just 2.92. Hamels has not allowed a homerun in his five starts.

The great pitching by these aces have allowed the Phillies to overcome their struggles in scoring runs, but has also taken some of the pressure away from the back of their bullpen. The team’s closer, Brad Lidge has been on the DL for most of the season. In his place veteran pitcher Jose Contreras has performed admirably, not allowing a single earned run and picking up five saves. However, Contreras started having elbow problems and was placed on the DL Sunday. Ryan Madson will fill the void at closer for the time being but he has struggled in the past for the Phillies as a closer.

The rotation will have to continue to be impressive if the Phillies are going to continue to stay atop the major leagues, especially with a good young Florida Marlins team nipping at their heels in the NL East. The rotation has the skills, experience, and repertoire to do it and with this many stars in one rotation, a slump by one or two of these pitchers shouldn’t be that big of a deal. The Phillies know that at the end of the day this is the rotation anyone in baseball would want, and they’re poised to have a fantastic season.

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