Media Elementary/Nativity Update: RTM School board proactive on potential traffic issue

Averting potential traffic issues at new Nativity location

This morning I received a call from concerned residents in South Media that the needed demolition for the forthcoming condos on S. Edgemont street is set to begin.  The project has or is obtaining the required permits to begin tearing down the current house and connected parking area.  I’m not sure of the date when this will start, but this could potentially cause an issue with school bus entry and exit from Nativity should heavy equipment be obstructing S. Edgemont St. 

The RTM school board has been made aware of the situation and is proactively investigating further.  Hopefully this is a non-issue, but wanted to address the concerns of the residents in the south and families who will have children attending this school.

Demolition set to begin across the Street (S. Edgemont St) from Nativity

Media’s Third Mexican food eatery that you didn’t know about.

Ariano's serving Mexican food on Monday Nights

You may know about the two excellent choices in Mexican food provided by Dos Gringos and Diegos, but did you know about the third? No, I’m not talking about Koffee Korner and the nights they had Mexican cuisine, nor Taco Tuesday at John’s Grille.  This place is well known in its own respect, but not known for Mexican food, until now.  

With every other Mexican restaurant closed on Monday Ariano's steps up and provides quite a comprehensive menu that'll surely supplement the needs for good, authentic Mexican food.  This treat is featured in their Monday menu, so you're out of luck if you can't make it this day.   In addition to their regular menu, and one of the nicest settings around, this will only make seating harder to come by.  Especially on Monday nights!

First PennDot, now County looking for answers from Borough Council on Third St. Bridge project

PennDot and Delco looking for answers on Project

A few weeks back the news outlets reported that PennDot was urging Media Borough Council for decision on the Third St. Bridge project. PennDot went as far as to announce that the financing for the project could be jeopardized if answers weren’t provided soon.  This week, Delaware County expressed the same concern by submitting a letter to Borough Council asked why the project has not started.

It appears that Borough Council has yet to finalize the EAP (Emergency Action Plan) that was request by the PA DEP and is required in order for the repairs to begin.  Based on the Schnabel report, the draft has been created, but has yet to be circulated by Media Borough Council to the county for comment.

3rd St. Bridge: Media Democrats snarled in serious controversy with Special Interest Group

Unfortunately, Media borough has a serious matter going on with the Third street bridge project that should raise a lot of concern in this town, the stake holders (county, BLCC) adjoining communities, and the RTM school district!   This is a project that is fully funded with an agreed upon design in place that could be given the green light to proceed at anytime.  In fact, Penndot and the funding behind it is on record urging borough council for a decision.  So what could possibly be holding this up?

FROG website hosted by Councilman Kent Davidson

Based on what's emerged, it shows borough council has been less than than transparent, at least as far as councilman Kent Davidson goes.  It's been found that Kent Davidson not only registered Friends of the Glen Providence Park's website through his company (Market Acumen, Inc.), but is also providing service to them on a server he maintains.  He even renewed their domain name just last month!  This is a group actively lobbying against the borough's current decision on the bridge!

A $3.4 million project that's being opposed by a special interest group (FROGs) and Councilman Davidson's company is registering and hosting their website which has been used to influence, petition and advance positions in front of borough council?  Whose side is he on?  Does this uphold his fiduciary responsibility to objectively represent the best interests of this town? UNBELIEVABLE!

Market Acumen, Inc. founded by Kent Davidson

Are the Friends of the Glen Providence Park (FROGS) paying Davidson for the service? He signed their petition for a greenway.  Terry Rumsey, the co-chair of the FROGs was also appointed to the Borough's Citizens Advisory Council as chairman to provide recommendations on the bridge project. Appears he was aided by a website provided by councilman Davidson's company.  Was this ever disclosed and does anyone else on borough council know about this?  How can the residents of Media believe they are being treated and represented fairly when this non-sense is going on with a $3.4 million project?!?!?!?!?!!  TRANSPARENCY? LEADERSHIP YOU CAN TRUST?

Looks like Kent Davidson is out to manipulate a certain public opinion in order to "suit the particular politics of current leadership," which is his.  Or, at least he thinks it is. 

Councilman Davidson's 2011 campaign literature.

Below you'll find that www.glenprovidencepark.org (FROGs website)renewed just last month,  is registered to a company called Market Acumen owned by councilman Kent Davidson.  It's also important to point out that the FROGs website is on the same exact server as his blog, www.mediapanews.com. Both residing at IP: 216.70.101.90.   So here we are as residents thinking this borough council has our best interests in mind, while one of them is secretly involved with a group actively lobbying Media over $3.4 million bridge project!!! 

Friends of Glen Providence Park using server supplied by Councilman Davidson's company.

Councilman Davidson's blog is on same server as Friends of Glen Providence Park

It's Sunday 8-26-12......Media In Two Minutes

IT'S MEDIA IN TWO MINUTES....

HERE'S WHAT'S GOING ON AROUND TOWN 

La Porta Restaurant is, well, AWESOME!

Thinking about going to La Porta? EXCELLENT CHOICE!

I finally had a chance to get out to Edgmont and try the tremendously popular La Porta Restaurant.  I didn't think after the Locust Crest this venue would see another well liked icon, but La Porta is well on it's way to becoming one.   Understand, I'm not a food critic, so I won't dazzle you with a play by play of the meal, but I don't think I have to.  Just GO!

The gorgonzola/ham pizza was excellent!  This coming from a guy who maybe has two pizzas a year.  The wait staff was very friendly and our bartender Bruce orchestrated a nice pairing of sangria and wine.  The place always had a nice vibe, even when it was the Locust Crest.  What I like most about the place is how they were able to retain the rustic charm.

I understand there are plans in the future for open air dining outside.  That along with great food will really make for a nice eatery in this area.

Keep your Butts of State Street:

From a post earlier this week, quite a few people voiced their displeasure with the cleanliness of State Street and the sidewalks.  If people want to see a REAL change, it'll take a collective effort from residents and business to make it happen.  Some one or group needs to step up and take the lead on this, as it won't be solved by me writing about it.

Four Paws Store Closing:

Sorry to see Four Paws pet store closing on Jackson Street. With all the pet owners in Media, I thought this would have done very well, especially at the newer location.  Unfortunately, retail on State Street is not easy unless you have a specialized product that isn't sold by a big box store or readily available via the internet.

Third St. Bridge

I hope no one threw this sign away, it may need to go back up.

There was a Dam Safety Tour and Workshop on August 20th sponsored by the Friends of Glen Providence Park and attended by Paul Robinson and Kent Davidson.  The whole event was put together in hopes of them hearing damaging testimony by the Department of Environmental Protection DEP on the feared public safety issue with a dam.  Turns out, DEP was quite supportive of the dam and gave interesting statics on failure rates that bolstered a future dam.  I also was told Mr. Davidson wasn't too happy with what the DEP presented, as it countered his agenda that doesn't include the current agreed upon design.

The DEP went on to say breaching the dam would eventually allow the oxgen deprived silt to work its way down to the glen providence park pond.  This would in turn harm the fish and wildlife that are currently there.  So essentially, a dam is good for not only the design but allows life to flourish down stream.

I expect a report from both Davidson and Robinson (both who signed the FROGs petition while campaigning) to explain the findings to the public.

Keep your Butts off State Street, it’s not an Ashtray

For years there have been discussions, campaigns, clean up efforts and even threats of fines towards the ongoing problem of people throwing their cigarette butts on to the sidewalks and streets.  Know this: MEDIA IS NOT AN ASHTRAY.  In fact a similar statement was written in chalk outside Sligo’s and Stephen’s on State Street a few weeks ago during an event.  It said:  “The sidewalk is not your ashtray!”  I didn’t get a picture of it, but it provided a clever message about an issue that really does draw away from an otherwise pleasant State Street experience.  To those who wrote it, keep it up!

Businesses have been tasked with cleaning up their own outside areas, but some do a better job than others.  Part of the problem is that the butts get lodged between the bricks and are not easy to remove.  This can in turn lead to people thinking it’s okay to discard their butts on the ground. Interesting statistic from the 2010 Keep America Beautiful survey found that people are more likely to litter when they see a littered environment.  

This isn’t a new problem unique to Media, but a issue that many cities and towns deal with. Recommendations that came from the litter study include:

• Increasing availability of ash receptacles and portable ashtrays.
• Clean-up activities
• Educating the public
• Motivating and messaging individuals of personal responsibility.

As for clean up activities, I do want to recognize the efforts of Media Business Authority, Executive Director, Zubair Khan who along with a friend spend over 3 hours cleaning up cigarette butts last Saturday morning.  As appreciative Media is for him doing that, that’s not the expectation of a viable solution to this problem.  People need to be more proactive against littering when smoking.

Lastly, what’s almost just as bad is the discarded chewing gum on State Street’s sidewalks.  The sidewalks look awful with what looks like years of accumulating gum.  It’s so bad, you can’t find a concrete pad with out multiple gum spots.  With the success of Dining Under the Stars, I would hope this town works towards cleaning this mess up with a professional company that handles these types of issues.  In fact, a routine, frequent power washing of State Street wouldn’t be a bad idea either.

 

State Street Needs to be Power Washed and Cleaned!

The second biggest improvement Media can make to State Street is to power wash it....all of it.  The first being, the clean up and prevention of cigarette butt litter, which I'll address in an upcoming post.

Power wash example of a street similar to State St

With the success of Dining Under the Stars and the many street functions the borough has, it makes sense to budget for such a service when it comes to keeping the town clean. Media has a great opportunity to advance these events and can better improve the experience by something as low cost and effective as a thorough cleaning.  If not the borough, perhaps a collective effort by the businesses.  One never realizes how dirty a street can become until after it's thoroughly cleaned, especially power washed.  Removing the dirt, grime and gum from the streets and sidewalks would make an immediate improvement that everyone can see.

Should Media Borough budget for such and expense/service?

RTM School board making for smooth Media Elementary transition to former Nativity Building

What started out as a very big issue this year for Media Elementary students, is turning out to be back page news.  As reported by delcotimes.com, the transition from Media Elementary school to the temporary location at the former Nativity BVM is proceeding quite smoothly.

So far so good, with a lot of the credit going to Superintendent, Jim Wigo and the rest of the RTM school board for acted on an communicating to the borough a well laid out plan for the transition.  No word yet on the repair of the roof at Media Elementary, though hopefully this will be on track too.

Transition Town - Potluck and Film Tuesday, August 28th 6-9pm

Parking in Media, Olive Street Parking Garage and Borough Priorities

I’ve written about this issue in the past, but it seems the conditions at the Olive St. parking garage are getting noticeably worse.  The fact that you can feel the top-side parking lot gently flex during events was what prompted me to comment on this initially.  Not only can you feel it, but I also saw it swaying a motorcycle parked on a kick-stand.  I’m not a structural engineer, so I can’t say this is part of the design or not(I doubt it), but I’ve not noticed such an occurrence with similar structures.

Interestingly enough, what I found this weekend further supports a concern for this structure.  This included separated seems in the top floor big enough to see daylight through.   It’s not just one seam, but appears to be a couple that run a few feet along concrete slabs.  After Saturday’s morning rain storms, water was still dripping through on to cars parked on the second level.  The mineral deposits from this water has ruined the finish of at least one car I know of.  The owner eventually filed an insurance claim against the borough.  If you park your car there for days at a time, look for leaks from above.

Shortly after I posted my findings a few months ago, the borough did apply a few asphalt patches.  However, they look neither effective nor long term, as the repair work looks to be eroding away. I will reach out to see what the long term plans are for this structure, but I’m not sure there are any. Repair? Maintenance? Replacement?   Media businesses are challenged enough with the parking situation as it is now.  To lose additional spaces due to neglected borough infrastructure, would really have an impact on events. (i.e. Dining Under the Stars)

This again goes to illustrate the lack of focus and priorities that Mayor Bob McMahon and borough council have towards this town.  Instead of addressing real issues, they are clamouring over  a $20,000, 5 minute infomercial from a shady telemarketer who was investigated and fined by the Florida Attorney General.  Not only did they fail to properly investigate this “telemarketer,” (They didn't know of the investigation until it was reported on this site) they didn’t even put the work out to bid to local businesses.  And after a month, the mayor never replied to my letter I sent to him on behalf of those local businesses and taxpayers who requested further clarity on the situation.

Delaware County Literacy Council has been named the Not-for-Profit Organization of the Year by the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce!

August 21, 2012

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Open House Shines International Light on Local Adult Literacy

On Wednesday, September 12, the Delaware County Literacy Council (DCLC) will open its doors at 2217 Providence Avenue in Chester from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. for a special Open House to celebrate International Literacy Day.

All are invited to hear about literacy from a variety of perspectives, to enjoy light refreshments, and to learn about the Literacy Council’s free services and volunteering opportunities. DCLC provides free one-on-one tutoring and small-group instruction to adults in reading, writing, math, English as a Second Language (ESL), and GED preparation.

Scheduled to appear at the event is Michael Lahoud, a midfielder for the Philadelphia Union soccer team. Lahoud is a native of Sierra Leone—one of several West African countries well represented among DCLC’s adult students. Immigrants from Africa, Asia, South America, and other parts of the world come to the Literacy Council for both ESL instruction and basic literacy services and often receive help from a volunteer literacy tutor.

Lahoud is scheduled to talk about his journey from Sierra Leone to the ranks of Major League Soccer, first playing for Chivas USA in Los Angeles and now playing for the Philadelphia Union at PPL Park in Chester. Lahoud is also scheduled to sign autographs following the program of speakers during the event.

Visitors also can learn about the “Real Men Really Read” Campaign from Jonathan Abdur Raheem King of Brothers of Concern, who will say a few words about the Chester initiative. Also, local Rotarians will be recounting some of their local and international activities relating to literacy.

The event will be streamed live on the Delaware County Daily Times’ “Live from the Newsroom” web site, and several Daily Times’ bloggers will be in attendance to meet readers and share their thoughts on literacy.

The event is free and open to the public. For more information, visit www.delcoliteracy.org, or call 610-876-4811.

The Literacy Council was founded in 1975 by volunteers who recognized a need for reading tutoring in the Chester area. For 37 years, the Literacy Council has worked with Delaware County adults who wish to read, write, speak and understand English. Currently, more than 50 adult students are waiting for tutors. To learn how to become a volunteer tutor, come to the September 12^th Open House or call Susan at 610-876-4811.

--MORE--

Caption: Philadelphia Union player Michael Lahoud, a native of Sierra Leone, is scheduled to appear at the Literacy Council’s Open House, which will be held on Wednesday, September 12, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.

                                                            #30#

Contact Susan Keller, 610-876-4811, skeller@delcoliteracy.org

It's Sunday 8-19-12......Media In Two Minutes

IT'S MEDIA IN TWO MINUTES....

HERE'S WHAT'S GOING ON AROUND TOWN

7th Annual Tug McGraw Fundraiser for Brain Cancer

Today, Sunday Aug. 19th is the 7th Annual Tug McGraw fundraiser at the Plumstead Inn in Media, PA.  The generosity of the community always makes this a successful event, and is always appreciated.  Great job by the organizers!

Unruly Behavior at Media Elementary Playground during off-hours:

Both the Media Police and RTM School Board have been notified about this situation. I don't know for sure if there is a designated security guard designated for the playground, but I'll find out.

Please report any issues to Media Police by calling 911.

My Three Sons Hot Dogs:

I thought the store name coming to the West side of State St. was Haute Dog, but it looks based on a reader's comment, it's called My Three Sons Hot Dogs.  Here's what we can expect.....

Mary DiGiAugust 15, 2012 2:36 PM

Ok....now that the "cats out of the bag"........My Three Sons Hot Dogs will open the first week of October and will be open late (referring to the anonymous post above). AND will open with a BANG-----Celebrity Hot Dog Eating Contest on State Street!!!

Don't ask me HOW I know - - I just do................

Offering made-to-order, out of the ordinary, scrumptious, distinctive “haute” dogs. Customers will travel 50 miles for their weekly frankfurter-fix, and the foodie who will speedily become a Raving-Fan of My Three Son’s Dogs! You can park right out front in their dedicated parking lot, you walk in and are instantly consumed by the tangy aroma of long hot peppers and broccoli rabe frying; your senses are besieged by the pungent smell of the sharp provolone cheese and all beef frankfurters!

The passionately animated manager ("retired Doctor") greets you with a smile and offers you a sample of the newest haute-dog addition------you choose to be a little risqué—you are attracted to the “MADONE” Dog with spinach sauteed in garlic and white white and topped with sharp Italian provolone from South Philly!!

My Three Sons Dogs: truly dedicated to matchless, unusual, exceptional frankfurters!

WOWWWWWWWWWWW---now this is definitely NOT Jimmy Johns as they will offer fresh ingredients, all-beef hotdogs, distinct toppings, service excellence, and recognition that the goal of the company is to have customer service that is not just the best - - but legendary.

Hurry up - - - I can't wait!!!

SUPER WAWA

Last week the Media Business Authority voted in favor of bringing the proposed Wawa to Media at the site of the former Media Inn.  That's pretty big news and shows some leadership that we haven't seen from borough council.  Well done, MBA!

There's still a lot left to go and some changes needed, but despite borough council's displeasure towards this project, I am optimistic we will see a Super Wawa.

Timely information on serious issues

I've not heard anything regarding the continued investigation regarding the BB shootings that occurred in Upper Providence last month.  Nor has anything else developed from burglary that occurred in the Bowling Green section of Upper Providence or the incident across town at 5th and Lemon.  Kudos to Upper Providence for at least distributing flyers to residents in the vicinity of where the burglary occurred.  We don't have that type of service in Media.

Had I not reported the incident back on July 25th regarding the attempted burglary at 5th and Lemon, you wouldn't have widely heard about it until the mayor mentioned it at last week's borough council meeting.  For borough residents to have to wait  3 weeks until this type of information is reported, has to change.

Your hosts, the Media Democrats

Third Street Bridge

I really can't tell if the lack of progress on the Third St. Bridge  is due to ineptness or a calculated stall tactic by borough council.  I suppose Penndot is thinking the same thing as they've urged this council to take action or risk losing funding. If this funding is lost the bridge won't be built.  However,  council members Brian Hall, Kent Davidson and Paul Robinson would have fulfilled the petition they signed by delivering a sort of greenway I suppose, albeit a natural and dangerous one.

Media may be the only town in America with a project fully funded to remediate a potentially dangerous situation, and not have the leadership abilities to make it happen. 

Media Post Office

With email, paying bills online and pressure from the likes of Fedex, the post offices around the county are slowly becoming a victim of the connected economy.  Sadly, it seems our post office in Media is suffering from these challenges and am told recently made reductions in staff and hours.  I'm interest to see where all this goes in the next few years.

What's next for Media's Post Office?

I'm hearing reports that the Media Post Office is making reductions to its operational hours and services.  Most noticeable are the cuts in the clerk force, which have led to long lines and delays in service.  It appears PO Box mail is not getting sorted in a timely matter  and bulk mail has been directed to the Lindberg Blvd. office in Philadelphia.

Media Post on the corner of Monroe St. and Baltimore Pike

If Media's mail is being routed out of the Lima office, as I've been told, but haven't confirmed, then what lies ahead for this post office and building?  In 1969 the post office was relocated from 1 West State St. (Spasso's restaurant) to where it is now after the borough sold them the land.  In retrospect, where the post office is now may have made for an ideal location for a municipal parking lot;  alleviating parking issues on the eastern end of the business district.  Depending on what happens to the post office, that may be a future possibility.

Transition Town Media brainstorming event - Aug. 27th

Local and Alternative Economics Brainstorming

Transition Town Media will host a brainstorming event at Providence Friends
Meeting, 105 N Providence Rd, Media, on Monday, August 27th, 6-9 pm.

Please come and share your thoughts on local currencies, public banking,
peer-to-peer lending, cooperative businesses, and other initiatives on
building local, alternative economies, and let's brainstorm about what we
would like to see in our community. Everyone is welcome – we want to hear
all your ideas - and please share this invitation with any interested friends!

We will be serving light fare and invite you to bring a dish to pass if you
can. If you plan to attend or are considering attending, please email us at
ellenmorfei@gmail.com. We'll be sharing some useful links to look at before
the meeting.

This event is free and open to the public. For more information, see http://www.transitiontownmedia.org/ or email TransitionMedia@yahoo.com.

Media Democrats jeopardizing Third St. Bridge funding

Lack of decisions puts funding in Jeopardy

When the democratic party took office with a full majority in January 2012 they were in a position to finally conclude the third st. bridge project that was fully funded and clear of all hindering lawsuits. This resolve was previously packaged by their bi-partisan predecessors who did in 18 months, what they couldn’t do in 15 years.  Aside from minor design and aesthetic modifications, the ‘heavy lifting’ was done and an expected start date was expected by many to be eminent.  Or so we thought.

Media Town Talk reported this week that PENNDOT is urging council to move this project along or risk losing its place for the funding in the state's 2013 Transportation Improvement Program.  This funding in question is to cover the majority of the replacement cost.  A separate grant from State Senator Pileggi is covering the rest.  

After 16 years, a citizens advisory council (CAC), surveys, petitions and town hall discussions; the Media Democrats and Mayor Bob McMahon still can’t lead the project to completion even while their party holds every voting seat on borough council!  Even a resident at last night's council meeting questioned how this matter was being handled.  Shockingly, this late in the project, they are still fighting, even amongst themselves and those whose petitions they signed; over a one lane roadway across the bridge that they were recently told stipulates a road of two lanes.  What’s more concerning is that  Council President, Brian Hall stated in the article that this project was going backwards and not forwards.  He went on to say that this effort wasn’t going anywhere until decisions were made.  If they haven’t and/or can’t make decisions by now, then we've wasted an unprecedented amount of people's time and money for a project that was funded and ready to go.

Third Street bridge is regressing back to the same political games by the same political party that have stifled Media borough of the progress it rightfully deserves. 16 years and counting to fix a bridge that has increased in costs by $2 million is unacceptable.  Brian Hall, Monica Simpson, Paul Robinson and Bob McMahon have all served multiple terms with a council majority.  They've allowed the same exact thing to happen to the $1.9 million Congestion Mitigation Air Quality (CMAQ) program that after 15 years still isn't finished.   It's interesting that the former borough engineer who received this no-bid project and wasn't even qualified for doing the work, also was found to be contributing thousands of dollars to the campaigns of the Media Democrats.

As the Media Democrats fight among themselves to protect their special interests(signed their petitions), allegiances and agendas; the town of Media, surrounding communities and RTM school district  are  left wondering if this bridge or any other projects will ever get finished.  

Have we had enough? 

Tedman

UPDATE: Unruly behavior at Media Elementary Playground

For those who contacted me, I have contacted the  RTM school board and Media Police Department regarding the unruly behavior reported at the Media Elementary playground during off hours.  Please let me know if further issues are experienced.

I hope to have an another update shortly.

Tedman

Media's Historic Rail Line and the importance it held for the region

Here's a great article on the former Wawa train station and its historical importance to the region.  With discussions over they years for a new facility at Wawa, it's interesting to see what was considered old, is now new again.

Media to West Chester Rail Line

A Great Iphone App for Media's Dining Under the Stars

At about this time every Wednesday during the dining under the starts season, people start wringing their hands as to whether the weather will hold up for the night’s event.  With a daily threat of thunderstorms throughout the later months of Summer, it’s almost an art over a science when predicting the weather for DUS, or any outdoor event.  Sometimes a light shower in the afternoon will give way to a beautiful rainfree evening, and on a few occasions vice versa.

Dark Sky Iphone Weather App

Not even the best technology can accurately predict the weather 100% of the time, but one that comes very close and is incredibly accurate is a Iphone App call Dark Sky.  So if you sitting somewhere wondering if the weather will cooperate for  DUS on a particular Wednesday or want to get a meal in before the rain sets in, check out the app.  One nice feature is that i'll send you a push notification minutes before the actual rain is expected.  It may even have you literally dodging rain drops.

SECOND WEEK LINE-UP FOR MEDIA THEATRE'S ONE SONG ROCK FEST

SECOND WEEK LINE-UP FOR MEDIA THEATRE'S ONE SONG ROCK FEST 

On Thursday August 16, Neon Karrot takes the stage. Formed in Media in 2009, the four musicians write what they refer to as 'fun, catchy, and original music'. The members are Media residents Alex Mercer, Mitch Moir, Sean Moir, and Tim Weathers.

 

Friday August 17 has NULL, also formed in 2009. With guitar, bass, keyboard and percussion the band creates the 'full sound experience' with their original tunes. They are followed by Keystoned, who performed in last summer's Garage Band Festival, making their second Media Theatre appearance. Keystoned presents a tight blend indicative of their diverse musical backgrounds. Now in their fourth year, they are working on their second CD to be released in late 2012. 

The Great Socio also performs Friday August 17. They explode with lyrics about life, love, and paranoia with four keyboards, huge bass lines, and a trumpet-wielding frontman with a brave new rock sound. Formed out of The Lehigh Valley, Bethlehem, and Philadelphia, The Great Socio flaunts a unique brand of synth and bass groove rock.

Saturday August 18 brings Effusion 35, a creation of singer/ songwriter/ guitarist Pat Manley. Based in the Philly region, Effusion 35 melds the melodic style of The Velvet Underground and R.E.M. with the riff-heavy hooks of Led Zeppelin and Nirvana.

High Olives also performs on August 18. Formed in 1998, the band has a unique brand of rock music that was meant to counteract the boy bands which saturated the airwaves in the late '90's. Their sound is influenced by The Beach Boys, with vocal harmony and a tight structure, but is purely their own. High Olives was formed by Andrew and Nick Arbutina.

Modern Colour joins the festival on Saturday August 18. With influences of Jimi Hendrix, Cream, and Stevie Ray Vaughan, they perform "Rockin' Blues".

To get "Rockin'", be sure to attend The One Song Rock Festival at The Media Theatre. For tickets, call  610-891-0100 or visit www.mediatheatre.org

Media's MBA approves motion in favor of Super Wawa

Media's Business Authority approves motion in support of Wawa

At tonight's meeting the Media Business Authority (MBA) approved a motion in favor of the proposed Super Wawa.  Although the approval was contingent on the Wawa meeting certain criteria, this is at least a show of leadership on a matter that is quickly becoming a big issue for the borough.  One MBA member went as far as saying that he hasn't found anyone against bringing a Super Wawa to the former Media Inn site.  Another openly appreciated the work Wawa did through their drawings to make the proposed building as aesthetically pleasing as possible. 

It was also interesting that the MBA didn't agree with council laision, Eric Stein's assessment of the Wawa plan that he's against.  They went on to say they appreciated the Wawa presentation and thought they did have a concept that showed sensitivity to the importance of fitting in with the town.

A mentioned alternative to Wawa

The traffic issue for this Super Wawa, or any other business (i.e. office or dollar store), is something that's going to have to be dealt with sooner or later.  If Media Borough Council is going to turn their noses up to a well known business that'll provide 35 jobs, contracting work ($1 million) and a steady tax base revenue, then we should know what they have planned as an alternative.

Traffic could potentially be challenging, but what Media lacks is a council that'll step up and work through the issues.  This is the same mentality from the same group that's left a bridge in disrepair (16 yrs), traffic projects uncompleted (15 yrs) and up until recently, 1 West State St. (Spasso's) languish for a decade because selling it for $1million was considered by them as short sighted.  In 2011 the buiding was sold for $650,000.

May 2005 Meeting Minutes

Effusion 35 at Media Theatre - August 18th - 8pm

Over the last few weeks, Media Theatre's "One Song Rock Fest" has been a BIG HIT!  The title is a bit deceiving, as the bands playing each night are on for 45 minute set intervals.  Either way, it's a great way to see live music at the theatre.

I've not seen Effusion 35, but I'm hearing they have a HUGE following, which I'm sure will provide for a big event when they play this Saturday.  For more information check out their event page on Facebook.

Delaware County 100 Years Ago Through Postcards

Colonial Pennsylvania Plantation

 

at Ridley Creek State Park 

 

"Delaware County 100 Years Ago Through Postcards"

 

Wednesday, August 15

 

Time 7pm, 

at the Park Office

Media Courthouse - courtesy of Keith Lockhart

The Colonial Pennsylvania Plantation will offer its first ever “Wednesday Evening at the Farm” with a special presentation by local historian, Keith Lockhart. The event will be held inside the main ballroom at the headquarters at Ridley Creek State Park. This is the office for the State Park, the old Jeffords Mansion, just follow the signs for the park office.

At 7 PM Lockhart will present the program featuring his prized collection of Delaware County postcards. Lockhart’s collection is considered the largest of its kind in the region. Take a trip through Delaware County 100 years ago when postcards were the rage! During the evening the Colonial Plantation farmhouse and the kitchen garden will be available for tours they will open at 6. Demonstrations taking place include textile making and long rifle firing. Of course, the Plantation’s farm animals will be around for viewing. 

Closing time is 9 PM. Admission is $5 per person. Children under 4 are free. One fee for both events! Money to benefit the Colonial Plantation.

The Plantation is located in Ridley Creek State Park and is easily reached via Routes 3, 352, 252 or Providence Road.

Tug McGraw Foundation Fundraiser - Sunday, August 19th

Media does a lot of things right, but one aspect that really shines is the community spirit shown towards the yearly Tug McGraw Foundation held at the Plumstead Inn.  This is the 7th annual event which has raised tens of thousands of dollars in the name of a local hero and for a serious cause, brain cancer research.

This town is quite lucky to have people like organizer Dominic Marra and Plumstead owner, Chuck Margis along with others who have dedicated their time, effort and facilities to help others.  Local writer and organizer, Lauren Avellino Turton had a great write-up of the event.

Entertainment will be provided by some of Media's most well known performers.  Stop by to see a great event supporting a great cause.

It's Sunday 8-12-12........Media in Two Minutes

It's Media in Two Minutes.....

here's what's going on around town

Media Elementary Playground Complaints

I'm aware or the issues reported at the Media Elementary Playground.  I'm in the process of reaching out to the Media Police and RTM school board notifying them of the rowdy and aggressive behavior.  These problems seem to crop up every few months.  A suggested community volunteer neighborhood watch might be a possibility.

Media Little and Babe Ruth League

Congrats to the great season the teams has this year.  Media's Babe Ruth Team won the state championship and Media Little League won the Mid-Atlantic championship

Two new eateries coming to Media:

Yes, that's right, two more eateries are coming to the borough.  Haute Dog, which will specialize in hot dogs and ice cream will be on the west end of State St., while Double Decker Pizza will be setting up a restaurant on the 400 East block of Baltimore Pike.

Media Upper Providence Library Expansion Project

The Media Upper Providence Library is embarking on an ambitious plan to expand and renovate their current facilities.  I wasn't aware of this, though 7,000 people visit the library monthly.

Rendering of proposed library expansion.

The biggest complaint I hear about the library is the lack of parking.  Instead of expanding on a small foot print where parking will still be an issue, would the former Nativity School building be a possible option after next year when it's expected to be vacant by Media Elementary?

Will the Hampton Inn ever be built in Media?

Site of future Hampton Inn

By now it was expected that work would have begun on the site of the future Hampton Inn Hotel.  As you can see, it's still in the same state it's been for years.  With Springfield recently passing approvals for the proposed hotel next to the Springfield County Club, this puts further market pressure on future hotel business in Media.  

Seems there might be other interest in this property that wouldn't include a hotel.  We will see where that goes.

$20,000 for 5 minutes of video and no answers

I wrote a letter to Mayor Bob McMahon on behalf of those who contacted me about the $20,000 in taxpayer money being used for a 5 minute infomercial.  This was money spent not only on a company that was investigated by the Florida Attorney General, but was never placed out to bid to local businesses.

The mayor never replied to my letter, but I did talk to him at a recent dining under the stars.   I asked him for a formal reply, in which, he said he would.  Later he said he didn't reply to blogs (I sent him a formal email), he then went on to say he had been traveling and had hundreds of emails.  

He seemed more concern that I know of his experience with these types of projects, than actually answering the questions. The mayor's response shows me that this isn't really about Media and the taxpayers who are paying $20,000 for a 5 minute  infomercial, otherwise it would have gone out to local, honest businesses that could do this for a much better rate.  This is about the Mayor's own personal agendas and projects that he apparently feels don't need a response.  I know that the Brandwine CVB and RTM School Board would not have given money towards this knowing what has come to light about this deal in the last few weeks.