If you haven't yet, please consider signing up Delaware County ReadyNotifyPA to get emergency notifications that affect the County. Today they've sent out an announcement requesting volunteers for emergency disaster exercise. This notification systems was invaluable during Hurricane Sandy.
A mass care sheltering exercise will take place on Saturday March 2,
2013. We will be conducting this exercise without the ability to
communicate by cellular phone or texting. Local volunteers, unaffiliated
volunteers, and regional volunteers who wish to participate as clients
of the shelter will be asked to meet at the Darby Community Center, 1020
Ridge Ave in Darby, PA 19013 between 09:45 am and 11:00 am on Saturday
March 2, 2013.
They will register as exercise clients and then be given
further instructions. They exercise will conclude by 2 pm. All
volunteers participating as clients should be prepared to act out roles
as they are assigned and rotate through the shelter to be accepted as a
new client. Lunch will be provided by the American Red Cross,
Southeastern Pennsylvania Chapter. Pre-registration is required.
To register go to: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/WZ52QNB
For any comments, suggestions, or concerns please contact Ed Kline,
Volunteer Management Coordinator, Delaware County Department of
Emergency Services at 610-892-8134 or by e-mail at ekline@delcodes.org.
Mayor Bob McMahon and Media Borough to lose millions
Based on reports received this afternoon, Judge Proud has thrown out the court order stipulation agreed upon by (BLCC, Del. County and Media Borough) that would have allowed for the bridge to be repaired after 17 long and costly years. No two-way, No one-way.........NO REPAIR On one of PA's top ten most Dangerous Dams. In all likely hood this will now revert back to court where it was 21 months ago to determine who owns the bridge. A tremendous waste of time, money and effort by the community at the hands of Mayor Bob McMahon and Media Borough Council who fought for this obstruction. It was Media Borough who explicitly asked in their briefs to have the stipulation nullified. It should also be noted that BLCC in good faith to the community and taxpayers, offered to discuss a one-way option that Media Borough Council was telling the community was a compromise necessary to move forward. Borough Council never even addressed the offer. In fact, for months they wouldn't even discuss the bridge due to the "contempt of court" petition filed against them. It may now potentially cost the borough, businesses and residents millions of dollars. As this is shaping up, the money allocated by Penndot and a state grant totaling in the millions of dollars will be most likely be re-allocated for other projects in the state. It's unclear where the money will come from to clean this 17 year mess up or how long it'll take, but today that now became the Media Taxpayer's problem.
Support Local Businesses: Murray Overhill and Bevan's Candy
Media's last family owned pharmacy!
Facebook and to a lesser extent Twitter, have caught on here in Media, PA. A lot of the eateries in town post menus, specials and in-the-know updates that seem to be very appreciated by customers. This week, we have Murray Overhill Pharmacy getting into the mix and looking for support for their page. They'd be thrilled to break 100 likes, so swing over and check them out. Bevan's candy is also on Facebook and are taking orders soon for the Easter candy. If your business or cause is using social media, let me know, I'll be happy to get you some "likes!" Third Street Bridge Update: The legal briefs submitted to the Judge Proud a few weeks back have been released to the public. I've not yet received copies, but from what I heard Delaware County has joined BLCC regarding the Contempt of Court suit filed against Media Borough. Affidavits were also signed by former and current council members who voted and approved the stipulation back in 2011. They signed the documents stating the repair of the bridge always included a two-way thoroughfare. The County's position was quite clear and rather terse, as they intended the bridge to be Two-way roadway also. As a contributor of $75,000 towards the design cost, they feel the hold up has done nothing but hurt the taxpayers. It's been 17 years! Regardless of outcome, I expect from Media Borough a full disclosure of the costs that have been accumulated to fight, or perhaps obstruct the completion of this bridge. A ruling by the judge should be coming soon. It should have never gotten this far, but then again this borough council thinks if you don't show up to one of their meetings, too bad! You don't count.
PA Lottery films commercial in Media, PA It's great that Media attracts companies interested in shooting commercials about small towns. However, last week's release of the PA Lottery commercial filmed here was a bit of a disappointment, especially after seeing the production they had assemble for the shoot. If you didn't look hardenough, you really wouldn't have noticed anything "Media-esque" about the commercial.
Hampton Inn Site - How long are we going to have to look at this site?
Media Borough Council doesn't know!
Too much liquor? When it comes to liquor licenses in Media, too many licenses may very well be the case. I've heard from more than one restaurant that Media's market for booze is over saturated. What that means is that there aren't enough people coming to Media to make having a restaraunt/bar cost effective. Most of these places, if not all make a large percentage of their revenue from alcohol, not food sales. Media may have granted close to 20 liquor licenses in the borough that are based on a case-by-case basis by borough council. At one time it was extremely hard to get a license to sell liquor in Media. A lot of the licenses here today have been moved from other parts of the county. A hotel liquor license for instance, even has interesting requirement to have certain size rooms, and towel racks to be setup in a building that has this type of license. Though I don't know how firmly it was enforced, Packy's Pub that is now Sligo's had this type of license and had these "hotel rooms" for spaces upstairs.
Super Wawa Round 2?.........stay tuned Enough of the community is interested in this Super Wawa, that it might not be over just yet.
THANKS!
A tremendous thanks to all the readers who drop by this site for Sunday's Media in Two Minutes. You may enjoy reading, but I probably enjoy writing it more!
Media Borough Council had a great opportunity to upgrade and improve State Street by removing the current parking meters and replacing them with parking meter kiosks. Not only are these kiosks becoming more and more popular in areas like Philadelphia and beach communities, but also feature parking statistics, more payment options and scalable technology that is proving effective in the constant battle with parking congestion. Anyway, what they did do is upgrade the current parking meters on State Street between Monroe and Orange with the hardware to accept credit cards. So how do they work? That's a good question as borough council failed to make an announcement and overview of this new feature on their Award Winning Website, the $15,000 one. They should have also had stickers on these meters to let people know that parking is free on the weekends. So, here's how they operate:
First, select which parking space (options: left side, right side)
Insert coins, or proceed to step 3 for credit card payment.
Press the green button to select time. There is only one selection (3hrs for $2).
Swipe your card
Wait for display notification on top of meter.
Verify 3 hours had been allocated.
Here are a few FAQ's
Is there a receipt? No, there are no printouts.
Can I still use coins? Yes
Can I pay via my smart phone? No
Will I have to pay on weekends? No, Saturday and Sunday's are free
Will all of Media have this credit card payment feature? Research is still being gathered.
How long does it take to pay via Credit Card? Less than 20 seconds.
What cards does it take? Visa, Master Card and Borough Park card. (Not sure about Amex and others)
Where can I get a borough parking card. There's a one-time purchase fee of $2 to get a card and they have them at borough hall. You can add credit to the card as needed.
Can I pay for longer or shorter times than 3 hours? No, when paying with a credit card you get one option (3hrs for $2)
Whether at my home or at work, or even on the go; I take for granted the connectivity and computer processing power I have within an arm's reach. However, it's a lot more of a stretch for others, who like all of us, have come to rely on internet access. Tonight, the Media Upper Providence Library made an announcement that their server that manages the public computer access crashed. That might not be a big deal for a lot of people, but if you've ever swung by the library, you'll see the computer stations are quite crowded and often have a waiting list. Whether it's looking for a job, emailing a resume, paying bills, looking up an insurance claim or catching up with friends on social media; internet connectivity has become a vital need in the Media community. There was a recent article in the Wall Street Journal that explored the feasibility of a bookless library that instead relied on computers, tables and Kindle type readers for sharing information. We will always have books, but they will and are sharing space with other electronic mediums.
I don't know how quickly that eventuality is approaching, but then again, no one really thought the demise of the print newspaper would happen so fast either. Today's news about the Daily Times substantiates that tectonic shift many industries are undergoing, especially in the print business. Remember getting the Newsweek delivered in the mail? Well, that doesn't happen anymore and what was a powerhouse in news, is nothing more than a blog now. What's concerning here is a vulnerability for Media residents who rely on public computer access and may not get it. Whether a server crash, prolonged outage, or limited use due crowded conditions at the library; these issues are becoming serious, as around the clock dependencies develop for these services.
I found this video mentioned in a recent article on Philly.com about a Super Wawa that was proposed in Conshohocken, PA. You have to give it a few style points as the crew who made it really put some time towards it. I also like the Rage Against the Machine flair too, though I think I would have went for the "Bulls on Parade" intensity.
If you read the article you'll notice it parallels closely to what happened here in Media. You'll also notice that the majority of people in that town wanted a Super Wawa. Ok, some might find the video a little raw, but if you can help me find a passionate, community video of "We Want a Dollar Store," or "We Want a Walgreens," or even, "We Want Borough Council to be ANTI-Business!" I'll consider posting it.
Back on January 30th of this year, the PA Lottery film crew paid Media a visit to shoot their latest commercial. This week the commercial began showing on TV. If you look closely, you'll recognize a few stores on State Street. Here it is if you haven't seen it.
We need a bigger "House!" No, not me, but the well known eatery called House on Jackson Street. Well, looks like that is in works with recent news that they will expand into the vacated premises left by Tea and Cakes. This will make the place three times bigger. The menu will also expand to include brunch and dinners, along with their great lunches. In addition, they will also be taking over the food services at BLCC Swim Club this summer. Know this: This is one of maybe three places that people literally stop me on the street to tell me how good the food is at House. I've been there and can attest, but if you haven't, check out what everyone is talking about. Pinocchio's Pizzeria is making dough! I meant that in the literal sense, but having been to Pinocchio's for a family outing, I'd have to say they are doing very well with the business side of making dough too. At 6:30pm on Saturday, the placed is packed with a wait to get a booth. Even at 5:30pm when I was there, it fills up quickly. There's something to be said about watching the pizza makers spin dough in the air as they've done for decades. It's very reasonable and the food and service was great. If you haven't been there in awhile, check it out. Media/Upper Prov. Library receives grant!
I was contacted on Friday with news that the Media/Upper Providence Library received a $500,000 Keystone grant to help fund the $2.5 million renovation project. Congratulations to their board which has really worked hard for this passionate cause. Media's 5 minute, $20,000 Informercial - Where is it? Back in July 2012 Mayor Bob McMahon was contacted by a company looking to do a video segment about Media for their show, "Today in America." Surprisingly, it was found that Media would have to pay $20,000 to be on the show. Not the entire show, but five minutes worth. If that's not bad enough, it was brought to the Mayor's attention that the company in question was investigated and fined by the Florida State Attorney General for fraudulent claims!
Bad Leadership costing Media, PA
Mayor Bob McMahon and Council President Brian Hall for reasons unknown, proceeded with this Florida based company without ever putting this kind of production video work out to bid. Bids that would have been submitted by companies that do this type of work here in Media. When asked formally by letter why weren't the taxpayers and local business better represented after learning these findings, Mayor Bob McMahon stated he didn't have time to reply. And never did. So when will this video be shown? Hard to say because it's not likely to be shown in this television market. As for who will see it, not many. Check out the listing! Looks like this $20,000 is going to be nothing more than a 5 minute Youtube video.
A lot of people have been asking me what happened with yesterday's submission of prepared briefs to Judge Proud regarding Third Street Bridge. As it stands, briefs were submitted by all three parties (Media Boro, BLCC, Delaware County) though nothing formally has been announced and most likely won't be until another few weeks. I do know that at least four former council members who originally voted on the agreement that settled the lawsuits, signed and submitted affidavits stating their intent was unquestionably for a two-way thoroughfare. During that time, Peter Williamson, Pete Alyanankian, Jim Cunningham, Monika Rehoric, Dawn Roe, Eric Stein and Monica Simpson all voted in favor of the settlement. What is still unclear is the amount Media Borough has had to pay for this additional legal fees used to overturn a prior council's decision.
Media Boro Council - Creating more problems than solving
If you'd like to see how hard it is to raise funding for infrastructure projects across the country and especially in Pennsylvania, take look at last week's Wall Street Journal article "States Look to Pay Repair Tab." With Pennsylvanian having some of the worst infrastructure woes, it's easy to see that a lot of bridges, roads and tunnels are going un-repaired due to lack of money.
Media, PA is no different as the town has its own infrastructure challenge, but AMAZINGLY we don't have the problem that virtually everyone else does when it comes to funding. We have a problem with Media Borough Council who after 17 years and receiving a fully funded bridge from a prior council, still can't get the job done! Inability and political games are blocking this bridge, not financing.
Trust? Mayor Bob McMahon Campaign Literature
Mayor Bob McMahon and Media Borough council would like the public to think this whole project is one complicated matter, but it isn't. It's been 17 years! In fact they made it one in order to align the outcome to the desires of a small group (~ five people) that call themselves the Friends of the Glen Providence Park. They campaigned for this group, defended this group and even signed their petitions, while neglecting the rest of the community. A group that shamelessly used a county park to inflate their issues under the sensitivity of environmental concerns. There are also many people in the county who call themselves "Friends of Glen Providence Park," but yet they want a two-way roadway. Trouble is, if you're not part of this self serving club, then you are apparently less of a friend when it comes to politics.
In addition to a community petition for a two-way roadway that hundreds of people have signed, the RTM School Board, Upper Providence, Middletown Township and Emergency Services support this design too. Here's what we know:
Media Borough Council "Stacked the Deck" A year ago a CAC was created to make recommendations on what should be done with the Thrid Street Project. After a few meetings, it was found to be lopsided with representatives of the FROGS, who were appointed by Borough Council. So much so, the Co-chair of the committee wrote a letter of resignation to Borough Council stating such. Not only was this not presented to the public, Borough Council denied the letter even existed and refused to explain the resignation.
Created Misleading "Push" Survey The CAC then went on to create a "push" survey listing options for the Third Street Bridge. Having not included options with appropriated consequence (lawsuits, settlements, court orders) and financial considerations (paid for bridge, as opposed to costiler greenway), the survey mislead the public into thinking all options were equal. They weren't!
Emergency Services Not Allowed to Give Public Input Safety should come first, but not in the eyes of Borough Council. ALL Emergency Services endorsed opening the bridge to two-way traffic, yet this critical piece of information was never openly and formally shared with the residents.
Behind the Scenes Manipulation - Strong Arm Tactics Input was allegedly encouraged, but when the RTM School Board approved an agenda item to discuss the benefits of a repaired bridge, the CAC, Council Chairman angrily called a school board member and protested their involvement. As it happens to be, RTM School District supports a two-way roadway which is in contrast to Media Borough Council. Again, this incident was never openly addressed or explained by Media Borough Council.
Conflict of Interest and Unprincipled Conduct by Council Probably the most concerning, was that Councilman Kent Davidson was found to be providing an undisclosed website and services to the Friends of the Glen Providence Park group who are directly lobbying him on a multi-million dollar project. Mr. Davidson lives 50 feet from the proposed bridge and refuses to recognize the blatant conflict of interest and unprincipled conduct.
Democrats, Republicans and Independents have to put a stop to this out of control conduct going on in Media Borough.
If you grew up in the area during the 70's and 80's and had any liking towards skiing, you probably remember a small, but fun little ski area located out in Chadds Ford. It wasn't big and only took a couple of minutes (seconds) to leisurely ski down, but there was no other place you could go to ski in the morning and be back home for lunch. A mere 20 minute ride from Media, PA., made Chadds Peak a popular outing for many. The place was packed on the weekends especially after the holidays when everyone was eager to give their new equipment a test run. For some, this slope was the first experience they had with skiing. It was for me. I was in first grade when I received lessons and what now looks tiny now, looked huge back then. In fact, it was known as "Switzerland in your backyard!" The place had a ski lodge and rentals with both a rope tow and poma lift on two separate runs. A big pond sat to the left with snow making equipment placed around the slopes. They had lights too, which made for a great time after school skiing for the Penncrest team. Though it couldn't be compared to anything in the Pocono's, it did provide for a lot of fun afternoons and evenings growing up. A LOT OF FUN!
So whatever became of Chadds Peak? It's still there, but hardly recognizable from the glory days. The house and barn where the ski lodge was are still standing, but you can't tell that there was ever any ski slopes. The woods on both sides have re-claimed the area on the hill with mature trees. Both parking lots on ether side of the entrance are still there, but are now low-cut fields. In fact, if you're not paying attention, finding the entrance can be challenging. From what I understand an Investment/Development company owns the property and aside from a erecting a few shed/barn structures, have left the land untouched. There are some housing developments around the premeter, but not overbearing. Aside from the pictures below, here are some great photos and comments from the former owner and people who cherished this small bump with snow on it.
It opened in 2007 and was known for its English breakfast and quaint decor. Unfortunately, the Tea and Cake Tea Room on 112 S. Jackson shut its doors recently for good. A message to the community was posted on their website.
Koffee Korner owner, Rainy and her crew must be up to something big, as one of Media's favorite breakfast spot has a sign posted on the door that they are closed for renovations. No indication of how long the changes will take, but with the windows papered over so no one can see in, this could be big. Stay tuned for further details and see what's next for this local eatery.
Media in Two Minutes - This week's rundown of what's going on in town. Blood Drive Today at Media Community Center From 9am to 3pm, there will be a Blood Drive held at the Media Community Center. This has become a very successful annual event, so come on out and help those in need.
La Porta Restaurant - Excellent Food if you can get in! Great food comes at a price. Not so much from a monetary standpoint, but in the form of patience and time. If you're looking to swing by La Porta's on a Saturday evening, be prepared to wait a good 40 minutes for a table. They only take reservations for large parties, so you may have to hang out at the bar if you can squeeze in. Standing room only after 6:30pm
There's a reason for this and it has to do with excellent food, well selected wine and an overall nice atmosphere. It's a little loud in the bar area, so conversation can be tough, but that's not what people go there for. Parking can also be a challenge, but with a valet service, this more than makes up for it. Third Street Bridge Petition circulates for Two-way road
Closed due to Lack of Leadership, not Financing
Despite what Mayor Bob McMahon and Media Borough Council would have you believe regarding a one-way roadway, there is a very big movement underway that has many petitions criss-crossing town in support of a two-way bridge. I was at two locations on State Street Friday night where people where either signing the petition in support or voicing displeasure on why nothing has been done. One place even had a line of people waiting to sign up and find out what's going on. I assure you, people are fed up with the lack of action and direction from Mayor McMahon and borough council! What's different with this petition is that it is a grass-roots effort by people in the community who want a two way bridge completed. No committee, no tricks, and no one shamelessly speaking on behalf of a community park in an attempt to inflate their personal agendas in the name of environmental sensitivity.
Tattoo Parlors in Media, Pa I don't have one, nor do I plan on getting one, but for those who like Tattoo's: Media has them. There is Baker Street Tattoo below the Plumstead Inn, Tiny Tim's on Baltimore Avenue and Olde Media Tattoo on Providence Rd in Upper Providence. Media's Comprehensive Plan. If Media is serious about the direction this town is going in the next ten years, It has to assemble a group with sound managerial, executive and community/economic development experience. These people are out there, but just aren't interested in being on committees that swirl around and go no where. A lot of people feel that Media Borough committees are too long, poorly managed and lacking in measurable results. As harsh as that is, it won't get fixed until it gets addressed. Meetings that should only take 60 to 90 minutes top, often drag on for hours with no real decision making, direction or follow-up.
The roadways are a little slick this morning from the recent snowfall, but that shouldn't be a problem for today's Chinese New Year celebration in Media. It starts at 11am on State Street and parades down town with cymbals, fireworks and dragons. Here's video of the 2010 celebration:
