Conshy Courier July 2017 by Norristown Local

Conshy Courier

FREE Vol 2 No. 7 JULY 2017

We Join Our Communities in Wishing The CNC a Happy 50th Anniversary!

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SPORTS ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

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ON THE COVER: The Colonial Neighborhood Council (CNC) celebrated their 50th year of service the Colonial area. It was a community affair with a block party on 4th Avenue between Harry and Hallowell Streets.

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NEWS Colonial Neighborhood Council Turns 50 On Wednesday, June 21st 2017, the Conshohocken Borough presented a proclamation to salute the Colonial Neighborhood Council on 50 incredible years of service to the Borough of Conshohocken. The Colonial Neighborhood Council (CNC) celebrated their 50th year of service the Colonial area. It was a community affair with a block party on 4th Avenue between Harry and Hallowell Streets. Many turned out to help Mrs. Sandy Fry, Director of CNC celebrate this occasion. If you missed this it here are pictures of the event.

L-R Former CNC Director Jeane and Current Director Sandy Fryer

CPW Rotary Club Annual Dinner The Conshohocken Plymouth Whitemarsh Rotary Club held its annual dinner on June 22. Club president Renee DeCoskey was installed for a second term, the 2017-18 board was sworn in, and the club welcomed seven new members. Jeremy Apelian, Jacob Childs, Kristen Santangelo, Katie Kirlin, Joe Robinson, Alexis Kelly, and Dan Cornell were all inducted at the dinner. (Top Left) Board Members CPW Rotary President Renee DeCoskey swears in the 2017-18 Board: Satellite Chair 4 | Conshy Courier| MontCoMedia.com | July 2017

Yaniv Aronson, Secretary Emily Zabrodski, Past President Matt Breidenstein, Vice President/President-Elect Andrew Tarry, Membership Director Matt Doyle, and Treasurer Irwin Forbes. Not pictured: Social Director Tom Cassidy. (Bottom Left) New Members Satellite Chair Yaniv Aronson, new members Joe Robinson, Katie Kirlin, Jacob Childs, president Renee DeCoskey, new members Jeremy Apelian, Alexis Kelly, and Kristen Santangelo. Not pictured: new member Dan Cornell.

SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT Dillon Johnson Receives PASA scholarship

(L to R): Andrea Johnson, Dillon Johnson, Dr. MaryEllen Gorodetzer and PWHS Principal Dr. Jason Bacani.

Plymouth Whitemarsh High School (PWHS) senior Dillon Johnson recently received a $1,000 scholarship from the Pennsylvania Association of School Administrators (PASA). Colonial School District Superintendent Dr. MaryEllen Gorodetzer was awarded the scholarship to present to a deserving high school senior when she was named the recipient of the 2016 PASA Award for Instructional Leadership. Mr. Johnson is a member of the PWHS Class of 2017 Steering Committee. He also served as an Anti-Defamation League World of Difference Peer Trainer, was a member of the Benefit for a Friend Club, volunteered for Warming Philadelphia and played varsity soccer. Mr. Johnson plans to attend American University and study criminology and mathematics.

Suchsland Wins Suburban One Scholarship

L to R: PWHS Principal Dr. Jason Bacani, Laurel Suchsland and PWHS Activities Director Charles Forster Plymouth Whitemarsh High School (PWHS) senior Laurel Suchsland is the recipient of a $500 Scholar-Athlete Scholarship

have a B grade or higher, be drug and smoke free, display good citizenship and participate in community service and school service other than athletics. Students must also have a reference from a coach, teacher, counselor or administrator and submit an essay detailing why they should receive the award. Ms. Suchsland was a captain on the PWHS Girls Basketball Team that won the Suburban One League American Conference, appeared in the District 1 Championship game, advanced to the PIAA Championship quarterfinals and tied the school record for wins in a season at 27. Ms. Suchsland also served on the Class of 2017 Steering Committee, as an Anti-Defamation League World of Difference Peer Trainer, secretary of Warming Philly and was a member of the National Honor Society, the Principalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Advisory Committee and the Benefit for a Friend Club. Ms. Suchsland, who plans to attend the University of Richmond, was also nominated by PWHS coaches and administrators for the prestigious Dannehower Award presented by the Triangle Club of Montgomery County.

from the Suburban One League. Recipients of the award must

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PWHS Graduates Class Of 2017

Front Row (L to R): PWHS Scholarship Fund Chair Bernie Biasi, Sara Tenaglio, Mollie Fink, Sydney Brown, Brace Branscome and Jillian Bukstel. Second Row (L to R): Lauren Kim, Rebekah Epstein, Amanda Kim, Lizzie Stricklin, Rhea Trainson and Laurel Suchsland. Third Row (L to R): Zyanne Clay-Hubbard, Noah Goldstein, Alex Sandberg, Caroline Slagle, Jessica Fineman and Seth Rush. Fourth Row (L to R): Samuel Emmanuel, Matt Walker, Adlai Lamason, Dillon Johnson, Alexander Goldring and Andrew Caplan. Not pictured were Raquel Dunoff, Gabrielle Isaac-Herzog, Jesse Krensel and Anastasiia Sosnovskikh

Plymouth Whitemarsh Scholarship Winners Twenty-eight members of the Plymouth Whitemarsh High School (PWHS) Class of 2017 received scholarships totaling $48,000 from the PWHS Scholarship Fund at commencement exercises on June 7. The PWHS Scholarship Fund was formed in the fall of 1986 by interested individuals who felt there was a major need to help deserving students realize their educational dreams. The fund is a nonprofit organization and is not part of any other organization. It exists only to help young people who hope to further their education after high school. Since 1986, when the PWHS Scholarship Fund awarded its first two scholarships totaling $800, it has helped more than 679 graduating seniors with awards totaling more than $795,905. Tax deductible contributions may be sent to the PWHS Scholarship Fund, 201 E. Germantown Pike, Plymouth Meeting, Pa., 19462. Checks should be made payable to “PWHS Scholarship Fund.” Donations may also be made online through the Colonial School District Education Foundation Store at www.colonialsd. org/store.

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Three hundred and seventy-two Plymouth Whitemarsh High School (PWHS) seniors received their diplomas at commencement ceremonies on June 7. More than one third of the class, or 38 percent, graduated with a cumulative grade point average of 4.0 or higher. More than 87 percent are continuing their education, 68 percent at a four-year school and 19.5 percent at a two-year school. Five students are entering the military and four students received NROTC full-tuition scholarships. One student has committed to a gap year with the Young Judea Program in Israel. The PWHS Class of 2017 also includes 10 students recognized by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation as Commended Scholars. Members of the class are receiving scholarships and grants totaling nearly $12.2 million over four years. Class members received acceptances to some of the nation’s best colleges and universities including, Babson College, Bryn Mawr College, Carnegie Mellon University, College of William & Mary, Cornell University, Dartmouth College, Emory University, The Franklin W. Olin College of Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Macalaster College, Princeton University, Stanford University, Swarthmore College, Tufts University, the United States Military Academy at West Point, the University of California Los Angeles, the University of Chicago, the University of Michigan, the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, the University of Pennsylvania, the University of Richmond, the University of Virginia, Vanderbilt University, Washington University in St. Louis and Yale University. The Class of 2017 is the first to have gone through the Colonial School District with full-day kindergarten district-wide. Sixty-four percent of the class attended full-day kindergarten in the District.

Athletics Director Foster Retires After 35 Years After 49 years, PWHS Athletics Director Forster steps down The Colonial Board of School Directors accepted the retirement of long-time Plymouth Whitemarsh High School Assistant Principal/Athletic Director Charles Forster during a special meeting on Thursday, June 22. Mr. Forster has been with the Colonial School District for the past 49 years, including the past 35 in his current position. “I fell in love with Colonial from my first day when I began working at the Hervey Walker School,” Mr. Forster said. “CSD is truly a special and remarkable place. It is just my time. I leave with the knowledge that the District is in great hands and will continue to set the highest of standards in academics, music, activities, athletics and most importantly producing great citizens of the world who will make a difference.” Mr. Forster is currently the longest tenured Colonial School District employee. He has worked under all six of the District’s superintendents. He will officially retire on August 18. The District is seeking applicants to fill the position. In other action at the special meeting, the Board appointed former School Board president Gary Johnson to the seat recently vacated by Alan Tabachnick, who has moved out of the District. Mr. Johnson will fill the seat for the remaining five months of Mr. Tabachnick’s term. Mr. Johnson had served 16 years on the Board, including four and a half years as vice president and three years as president before stepping down in November 2011.

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Donofrio Elected To Montco Coaches Hall Of Fame Plymouth Whitemarsh High School (PWHS) Basketball Coach Jim Donofrio has been elected to the Montgomery County Coaches Hall of Fame and will be inducted during the organization’s 16th annual induction ceremony on November 21. Donofrio has posted a 406-133 record as head coach of the PWHS boys’ basketball team. “To be named as an inductee to the Montgomery County Coaches Hall of a Fame is an incredibly rewarding honor,” Mr. Donofrio said. “This simply gives me time to reflect upon and appreciate all of the wonderful players, coaches, and supporters I have had the privilege to work with, learn from, and befriend over the years. It is truly humbling.” Donofrio became the Colonials’ head coach in 1988. He has guided PWHS to 13 Suburban One League American Conference (SOLAC) titles, a District 1 title and the 2010 PIAA State Championship. Three times his Colonials placed second in District 1 and appeared in the District 1 Final Four nine times. He has guided the PWHS to the state tournament 10 times. Last season PWHS posted a 26-6 record, won the SOLAC title and placed third in District 1 before falling to eventual state champion Reading in the PIAA quarterfinals. Donofrio is a 1981 graduate of PWHS and was inducted into the school’s Distinguished Graduates Organization in 2002.

District To Offer Free Summer Meals The Colonial School District’s Food Service Department will be offering a free summer meals program. The program is open to all students 18 years of age and under who live in the Colonial School District. Meals will be provided to all children without charge. Participation requirements for the program are the same for all regardless of race, color, national origin, gender, age, or disability, and there will be no discrimination in the course of the meal service. The meals will be served at Conshohocken Elementary School, 301 Harry Street, Conshohocken, Monday through Thursdays. Breakfast will be served from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. and lunches will be served from 12:15 p.m. until 1:15 p.m. The 2017 program will begin Monday, July 10 and run through Thursday, August 3. Meals will also be served at Colonial Elementary School, 230 Flourtown Road, Plymouth Meeting, Monday through Thursdays. Lunch will be served from 12:15 until 12:45 p.m. The program will begin Monday, July 10 and run through Thursday, August 10. Additional Information on the program can be obtained by calling Lori McCoy, Director of Food Services, at 610-834-1670, ext. 8205. 8 | Conshy Courier| MontCoMedia.com | July 2017

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BUSINESS

Christian Appointed CSD Superintendent

The Colonial Board of School Directors unanimously voted to appoint Dr. Michael Christian as the District’s next superintendent during its regularly scheduled public business meeting on Thursday, June 15. “We are thrilled to welcome a superintendent with Dr. Christian’s experience and background,” said Board President Susan Moore. “He will be able to continue the great work of the district under Dr. MaryEllen Gorodetzer’s leadership.” “Dr. Christian has served in many capacities in education,” added Mrs. Moore. “His experiences as a teacher in the classroom, as an athletic director, principal, as-

sistant superintendent and superintendent will bring a valuable perspective on the complexities we face in education today. And, he will be able to draw upon that varied experience in a number of educational roles to inform and guide his decisions.” Dr. Christian will be replacing Dr. Gorodetzer, who is retiring at the end of the summer. Dr. Gorodetzer has been with the Colonial School District for 19 years. During this time, she served as an elementary school principal, district director of elementary education, assistant superintendent and superintendent. “We are excited that we are gaining a proven leader in Dr. Christian” said Mrs. Moore. “However, we are also losing an outstanding educator who has been a member of the Colonial School District family for nearly two decades. Dr. Gorodetzer’s leadership has created an outstanding educational system of which the entire Colonial community is proud. “We are extremely grateful to Dr. Gorodetzer,” Mrs. Moore continued. “She will be greatly missed.” Dr. Christian is currently the superintendent of schools in the Owen J. Roberts School District (OJRSD) in Chester County. He has served as superintendent at OJRSD since 2012. Prior to Owen J. Roberts, Dr. Christian served as the superintendent in the Garnet Valley School District in Glen Mills, Pa. He has additional

administrative experience as an assistant superintendent and middle school principal during his thirteen years at Garnet Valley. Dr. Christian is a life-long resident of Montgomery County. He began his educational career in the Methacton School District teaching high school English. “The Colonial School District is a premiere school district in the region and throughout the state,” said Dr. Christian. “I’m honored to have the opportunity to work with the Board of School Directors to continue their good work as well as build upon the strong foundation that Dr. Gorodetzer and her administration worked so diligently to create.” Just the fifth superintendent in the Colonial School District in the last 40 years, Dr. Christian is no stranger to the area. He and his wife and children live in neighboring Methacton School District. An active member of the community, Dr. Christian volunteers as a youth coach for various sports for the Audubon Recreation Association and Freedom Valley YMCA. In the past, Dr. Christian also was a swimming instructor for children with disabilities, tutored students for PSATs and SATs and served as a Literacy Volunteer of America. Dr. Christian earned a masters in education from Arcadia University, principal certification from Penn State University and a doctorate in educational leadership from Wilmington University.

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Taste Of Conshohocken

with Yaniv Aronson, Chair of the Conshohocken Plymouth Whitemarsh Rotary Club

This is a continuing column highlighting individuals, businesses and charities that work to better our community. Matthew Breidenstein is Chairman of the Environmental Advisory Council (EAC), a board appointed by borough council to recommend environmental policies. The committee meets the third Thursday of every month, 6:30pm, on the second floor of Borough Hall. Meetings are open to the public. What is the mission of the EAC? The mission of the Environmental Advisory Council is to identify environmental problems and recommend plans and programs to Borough Council, the Planning Commission, and other committees and boards of the Borough. The EAC functions to promote the conservation of natural resources, and the protection and improvement of the environment.

Do you see any pressing environmental issues for Conshohocken? In recent years Conshohocken has seen an increase in development and population growth. With this growth comes potential environmental consequences, both positive and negative. Several large developments are being proposed for Conshohocken and the EAC is committed to working with the Borough Council in recommending ways to limit negative environmental impact and to ensure they are constructed in ways that are environmentally sustainable. Where do you see the EAC, and the borough, five or ten years down the road as far as the environment and environmental policy? In the next few years, you can expect to see the borough focusing on efforts to improve the river walk and as well as plans to build several amenities to draw more residents and visitors to The Schuylkill River Trail. Last year, a multi-community river front plan was created by the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission. The plan proposes several

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improvements that would enhance the experience of the trail and the river walk. The EAC will play a vital role in ensuring that any development near the river, whether large or small, would not have a negative environmental impact.

How can the community become more involved with the EAC and protecting our environment? The best way to get involved is to join us at our monthly meetings. We meet every third Thursday of the Month on the second floor of Borough Hall (400 Fayette St #200) from 6:30-8:00pm. Another way to get involved is to join our “Friends of the EAC” group which assist the EAC in implementing projects and educational activities for the residents of the borough. If interested in joining the “Friends of the EAC,” you can email us at: conshyeac@ gmail.com. Matthew Breidenstein Chairman, Conshohocken Environmental Advisory Council ConshyEAC.com

SPORTS

Colonial Flag Alliance

Our kids can now be occupied for the next 9 weeks with the Colonial Flag Alliance, a co-ed youth flag football for kids in grades 1-12. The league which is operated by Henry Raisch, launched on Thursday, June 15th. Raisch stated that registration will remain opened throughout the summer. The kids were engaged with

moon bounces, face painting, a live radio show and the prospect of starting their summer break form school. You may register online at www.colonialflagalliance.com. Here are a few Pictures from opening day:

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

A Memorable Month

By Bradley E. Lacey The great Dr. Samuel Johnson of 18th Century English fame described a moment of enthusiasm in his own life as “a fit of frolicsome gaiety.” Dr. Johnson had his reason for his self-described fit, and we have our own – don’t we? For one, we celebrate this month the 241st birthday of our nation. Independence from Great Britain was declared by the men who had gathered in Philadelphia for sober discussion; a sobriety that culminated with explosive effect, having been framed within the parameters of profound thought and earnest discussion, permeated by fearful yet enthusiastic desire and adorned with elegant script as displayed by the document to be known thereafter as the Declaration of Independence. It wasn’t easy, as the winters of 1777 and 1778 at Valley Forge readily attest. The outcome, one would have thought, should have been inevitable, as the colonists couldn’t possibly confront the greatest power on earth and expect to win. But General Washington wouldn’t quit. Ben Franklin had an inner resolve that defied the norm. Thomas Jefferson put deeply-held thoughts and Thomas Paine put heart-felt sentiments into words that transcend the particularities of a particular time. And John Adams (my favorite) may have got the date wrong (he thought July 2 would be the annual day of celebration), but did he

ever get the tide right! Jefferson said of Adams’ ardent fight for independence that he “bestrode the floor like a Colossus” as he promoted independence amidst the grand debate. Well done, my fellow Bostonian, well done! Secondly, it has been one year since The Conshy Courier first went to print! A theatrical audience would cry, “Bravo!” to such a stellar performance after just one installment, but we can offer a cascading crescendo after twelve full issues. We had been without our own newspaper since the demise of The Recorder for several years. It just didn’t feel right; did it? It does now, as our esteemed editor Theresa and her staff has done what quite simply may be described as a fabulous job. The paper is informative, nicely formatted, and attractively presented. It is my privilege to contribute to such a fine piece of “hard copy” as this invaluable “organ of dissemination” is proving to be. The Word of God instructs us to be thankful “in all circumstances, for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 5.18, 19). I will thank Him for the gifts of what theologians label special or saving grace, by which is meant the myriad of spiritual blessings as found and received through the one act of Jesus Christ, who died on the Cross to save us from our sins. Gratitude for His gift of life is year-round and life-long. continued on page 13

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A Memorable Month continued from page 12 I will also thank God for the gifts and blessings of what is called the common grace of God, by which we mean the blessings that are extended more broadly and enjoyed by all; a lovely summer’s day, for instance, or the pleasure of a good meal – Better still: 241 glorious years of independence and one splendid year of publishing an awfully good newspaper! How now shall we celebrate? I, for one, heartily suggest a good “fit of frolicsome gaiety” – You’ll be hard-pressed to top that; for sure!

The Elmwood Park Zoo Is One Of Our County’s Treasures By Walter Ault The Elmwood Park Zoo in Norristown, Montgomery County’s most popular attraction by a large margin, has in large part gained that distinction by making impressive changes in the recent past, currently drawing close to 2,000 customers on a good day, with yet even more positive developments to come. In fact, the local landmark is doing so well that, astoundingly, the zoo’s leadership is confident of its attendance gradually catching up to the annual yearly attendance of the Philadelphia Zoo’s 1.5 million people. It seems as if there are noteworthy and intriguing changes appearing at the zoo almost weekly, exemplified by this summer, with one of the most highly anticipated events in many years being the opening of the $3 million Trail of the Jaguar exhibit. This exciting 5,600 sq. ft. exhibit is the home of the zoo’s three jaguars, as well as jaguarondis and ocelots. Its opening, along with the very celebrated birth of two jaguar cubs back in January, was not only a boon for the zoo’s attendance, but also a much-needed morale boost for the zoo’s staff, who sadly witnessed the death of three beloved animals in a short span of a week at the end of May; the same time as the new exhibit’s grand opening. The new jaguar exhibit is a four-building structure with indoor viewing areas, which allow for very close-up views of the cats in a (man-made) natural-habitat-looking environment. It is indeed a very nice attraction, perfectly complimenting the other major changes of recent years, including the displaying (and periodic hand feeding) of giraffes, as well as the addition of unusual and even endangered species like capybara, chacoan peccaries (once thought to be extinct), prehensile-tailed porcupines, chinchillas and one of the most endangered animals in the world, the black-footed ferret. The zoo has clearly come a long way since its founding in 1924 when a small parcel of land was donated to the borough. For many years thereafter the zoo exhibited animals only from North and South America. Of course, as with any tourist attraction, changes, improvements, and when possible, expansions, are always wise moves to keep the public’s interest and to attract new visitors. A big positive change for Elmwood Park Zoo came in 2002 when the zoo expanded from eight to sixteen acres. Earlier upgrades and additions to the zoo, all of which are still very popular, included the interactive playground in 2001, The Bayou in 1997, and the Lewis Wetlands Aviary in 1995.

One of the most popular aspects of the zoo is an activity that kids simply go wild for. It is called Treetop Adventures. This unusual attraction spans a big portion of the zoo, and features 50 physical challenges and zip lines among the zoo’s trees, extending up to 50 feet above the ground. It is Pennsylvania’s only location with zip lines over live-animal exhibits. In any case, the biggest, most dramatic and far reaching changes for the zoo came in 2005 when David Wood became the zoo’s curator. Shortly after, he greatly expanded the diversity of the zoo’s animals when he put an end to the limitation of just displaying those of North and South America. One of his biggest successes was bringing the giraffes to the zoo in 2013, which kind of put the zoo on the map, with more and more people suddenly paying attention. I guess it shouldn’t be a surprise to anyone that the daily life of any zoo is one full of heartache and tragedy, and rejoicing and celebration. And the local zoo is no exception. In fact, 2017, es apecially the summer months, has clearly been an emotional roller coaster ride of epic and unforgettable dra ma for everyone connected to the zoo. It started right after the new year when the zoo’s red panda died. Then there was a dramatic turnaround when the two jaguar cubs were born at the end of January. With spirits running high, the zoo staff looking forward to showing off the cubs in their new, Trail of the Jaguar, exhibit. Sadly, however, the twin jaguar births were followed by a prolonged period of dark clouds over the zoo. Wood, who was greatly involved in the design and planning of the new jaguar exhibit, died in March. Then, with the zoo’s staff still reeling over Wood’s death, three of the zoo’s beloved animals died in one devastating week at the end of May: Mojo, a howler monkey; Uma, a gray wolf; and Blondie, a coati. Nevertheless, the dedicated zoo staff and its many volunteers fight on, continuing to take excellent care of the animals and presenting them to the public in a very interesting, professional way. But it doesn’t end there. Elmwood Park Zoo may not be that large, but it is a complete zoological enterprise, not only presenting animals, but also involved in research, breeding, education and animal conservation projects. Of course, much of what the zoo does involves kids, who thoroughly enjoy the playground and treetop adventure during their visits. There are also zoo camps, scout programs, animal-feeding events, guest speakers and family workshops, and those ever-popular holiday programs. Elmwood Park Zoo is an accredited member of the National Association of Zoos and Aquariums.

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Dining

How To Keep Grilled Foods Warm

Many people prefer the flavor of grilled foods over the flavor of foods cooked in other ways. Grilled foods certainly have distinct flavors, but that uniqueness can be compromised when some foods finish cooking before cooks are ready to serve them. Grilled foods may lose some flavor if they are served cold or not as hot as cooks would like. But there are a handful of ways to keep grilled foods warm until they are ready to be served. Keep a low-heat zone on the grill. As foods finish cooking, move them to a predetermined low-heat zone on the grill where they will stay warm without overcooking. Monitor this area while cooking the foods to ensure it is warm but not hot enough to keep cooking foods once they have been moved. Store cooked foods in aluminum foil. Moving foods off the grill and tenting them in aluminum foil is another way to keep them warm until serving time, though this might only work if cooks need to keep foods for just a few minutes. Create a tin foil tent and place foods inside. The tent can then be placed on a less hot area of the grill or placed into an oven that

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is not on. Avoid tenting foods that are meant to have crispy skins, as tenting can moisten the skin. Use the warming feature on the stove. Many stoves come with warming settings that keep foods warm without cooking them. While this requires cooks to go indoors, it can help keep grilled foods warm while the rest of the meal continues cooking over the open flame. Place foods in the slow cooker. If the stove is not an option because other components of the meal are being baked or broiled, grilled foods can be placed in ceramic slow cookers with lids. This can potentially keep foods warm for longer periods of time than aluminum foil tents without sacrificing flavor. Keeping grilled foods warm until It is time to serve meals can be difficult. But grill masters can employ various strategies to ensure grilled foods maintain their unique flavor without getting cold.

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Conshy Courier Celebrates Its First Year Anniversary! The Courier turns 1 on July 3. After 12 monthly issues, we have reached a milestone, Year 1. This has been a labor of love for our team. We have a dedicated core team of writers, print editors and social media editors. I hereby take this opportunity to thank each of you for your continued support and commitment to our community newspaper. To our advertisers who continue to allow us to produce this paper, thank you. Please support our advertisers and let them know how much you appreciate their commitment to our newspaper. To the businesses who allow us to have copies available for you to pick up, thank you! I owe a depth of gratitude to Jack and Brian Coll who has listened and advised me along the way! Thank you for the many conversations and support. Lastly, to Mayor Frost, thank you for your responses to the column “Ask the Mayor”. (R) Cover of our ﬁrst edition

VOL. 1 NO. 1, July 2016

OTHER DOCUMENTS

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Parris Mobile Notary

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Home & Garden

How To Fertilize Summer Flowers

Meeting the fertilizer needs of your annuals and perennials doesn’t have to be a mystery. Just like people, plants have basic nutritional needs. And just like people, they need more of some nutrients than they do of others. Plant nutrients can be grouped into macro nutrients (those they need a lot of) and micro-nutrients (those they need in small amounts). Every package of fertilizer should give its nutritional value. Usually this is indicated by three numbers such as 1020-10. Those numbers represent the macro nutrients nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium. 10-20-10 means that package contains 10% nitrogen, 20% phosphorous and 10% potassium by weight. Most fertilizers also contain some of the micro-nutrients. They may be specifically identified or the label may just indicate that they are included. Fortunately, almost all the micro-nutrients plants need are already available in the soil. When you walk over to the fertilizer section of the garden center you will notice there are lots and lots of choices, some of them with the same nutritional analysis. How do you decide which one to use? If you can, take a few minutes to learn a little about synthetic vs. organic fertilizer and water soluble vs. dry formulas. They are all good products that will meet the needs of your plants, but you also want the fertilizer you choose to fit your needs. Some are easier to use than others; some are less expensive and some last longer than others. For more information, check out Bachman’s Information Sheet Fertilizing Basics. What makes fertilizing annuals and perennials any different than fertilizing any other plants? In our climate, all plants are either herbaceous or woody. Woody plants have parts (such as trunks, branches, twigs, and in some cases evergreen needles or leaves) that live from season to season. These give them a big head start each year. Herbaceous plants do not have that advantage. They start from the soil line in spring and die back to the ground in fall. That means they have to expend a tremendous amount of energy during the growing season to produce all those stems and leaves and to help them out, we need to make sure they have the fertilizer they need. What about slow-release fertilizers? Products such as Osmocote that are applied early in the season and release their nutrients slowly for the next few months are good for annuals, but not for perennials. If you are using them on annuals, you may still want to give an occasional boost with a water soluble. Is there a good organic alternative? Both Sustane and Milorganite are balanced organic fertilizers that will work with annuals and perennials. Keep in mind that organic fertilizer is much slower to release and plants might not produce quite as much growth or 20 | Conshy Courier| MontCoMedia.com | July 2017

flowers. With annuals, organic fertilizers should be applied three or four times each season. A successful combination is to use an organic for the primary fertilizer and give the plants an occasional quick boost with a water-soluble such as Excel Gro™ or Miracle-Gro. With perennials, organic fertilizers should be applied in early spring and again in mid-summer. Are there any annuals or perennials that don’t like to be fertilized? There are some that need very little fertilizer and a few that seem to grow best without it. For instance, nasturtiums are the prettiest when they go without any extra fertilizer. Most of the prairie wildflowers (such as coneflower and liatris) are stronger when they are grown “lean”, with very little fertilizer. Plants with succulent leaves such as moss roses and sedums as well as plants that naturally grow in boggy soil require very little fertilizer. Are there any annuals or perennials that are especially heavy feeders? Yes. There are a few annuals such as geraniums and impatiens that like to be fed faithfully. And the new “wave” petunias need to be fed weekly to do their best! Perennials aren’t as demanding. How will I know if the plants are getting enough fertilizer or the right fertilizer? If your plants aren’t growing or blooming as much as you think they should, they may need a boost of fertilizer. With some plants, the leaves will be a lighter green than normal if they need fertilizer. But several other factors can influence plant growth or color, so it is a good idea to bring a sample in and ask a horticulturist before assuming fertilizer is the answer. Is there a danger of over-fertilizing? Too much at one time can be hard on any plant, especially if the plant was even a little bit dry. Follow the directions on the package for application rates and you shouldn’t have a problem. With all plants, fertilizing too often may result in excessive growth that is weak and susceptible to problems. Over-fertilized plants are more easily stressed by lack of water, excess water, insects or diseases. For perennials, too much fertilizing may weaken their root system and make them less winter-hardy. Are there any other tips for fertilizing annuals and perennials? Water plants the day before you plan to fertilize. Carefully follow all the directions on the package and try to spread the fertilizer evenly. It’s always a good idea to water dry fertilizers after they are applied. This helps activate them right away and keeps them in place. Keep in mind that fertilizers will leach more quickly through sandy soils than through heavy, clay soils.

CLASSIFIEDS

CUSTOMER SERVICE/ SALE ASSOCIATE

COMMUNITY GROUPS

Farmers Chavarria Agency is seeking marketing/sales support from a highly motivated and energetic candidate to support the office growth. Office is located in Conshohocken on Fayette Street. Ideal candidate will have telemarketing experience and interest in exploring career options in insurance. Flexible schedule with 15-20 hours weekly with opportunity for full time position if growth supports the need. Please email your interest to MChavarria1@farmersagent.com

Conshohocken Business and Professional Women Meets the 4th Monday of each month. Please visit website for more information at http://www.conshohockenbpw.org

Farmers Chavarria Agency located on Fayette Street has excess space including private offices on a best offer. (Temporary or permanent basis). Please call to discuss (484) 532Ͳ7100

Send your news to: info@MontCoMedia.com Deadline: 15th of each month

facebook.com/CPWRotaryClub.

WPBN/Conshohocken/Plymouth/ Whitemarsh Chapter meeting the 3rd Wednesday of each Month Register online at www.PWBN.org

OFFICE SPACE

The CPW Rotary meets Thursday mornings at 7:30 a.m. at the William Jeanes Memorial Library (4051 Joshua Road, Lafayette Hill). The evening satellite meetings meet Monday nights at 7 pm at Guppy’s Good Times (2 Maple Street, Conshohocken). To learn more about the club or to join, please visit cpwrotary.com and keep up with the latest updates at

PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED AD WITH US

St Matthews Senior Group meets monthly on the third Wednesday of each month at 12:30. Everyone is welcome to join. Lunch $5. LEGO Club ages 5-10 meets Tuesdays 3:454:30 pm to Collaborate and Create. No July Sessions. Adult Book Club @ Conshy Library 3rd Wed of each month 6:45-8 pm.

610-825-3300

Kiwanis Club of Conshohocken meets at 7:00 pm Tuesdays at Andy’s Diner, Ridge Pike, Conshohocken. Contact: ConshyKiwanis@gmail.com.

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NEXT ISSUES: August (Deadline July 15) September (August 15) )

FOR CREDIT CARD CHARGES, FORM MUST BE FILLED OUT COMPLETELY: Name: _____________________________________ MasterCard Visa Discover Billing Address: ______________________________ Phone: ____________________ Credit Card # _______________________________ Expiration: _______ CV Code ____ Signature Required: ___________________________________ $20.00 Minimum Charge

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Wa nte d

PART TIME DISPLAY AD SALES

MontCo Media LLC is seeing part-time advertising sales representatives.

Set your own schedule!

Do you live in the following towns? Conshohocken, West Conshohocken, Plymouth Meeting, Lafayette Hill, Norristown, East Norriton, West Norriton and Eagleville. A great opportunity to earn extra income ! Are you self motivated and love the community you call home? MontCo Media LLC is looking for experienced advertising sales professionals to call on local businesses and area professionals. The ideal candidates will have print and digital, magazine, newspaper or business to business advertising sales experience. Straight commissions. Call 610.825.3300 or email us at Info@MontCoMedia.com

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OUR COMMUNITY EVENTS Conshohocken Library Babies @ Library Tuesdays @10:15 Tuesdays 7/11; 25; NO STORY TIME Thurs, 7/4 and 7/18

Conshohocken Library Preschool

Friday Movies at the Library starting 1:30pm 7/7 Beauty and the Beast 7/14 LEGO Batman

Thursdays: 7/6; 20 & 27 None on 7/13

NO LEGO CLUB FOR THE SUMMER

SUMMER READING PROGRAMS WEDNESDAYS 7/5 7/12 7/19 7/26

LEGO movie LEGO build night Sam Sandler Craft Night There will be five Building stations: Leap into science SAT 7/8 11:30-1pm Design It, Build It Ages 3-11

This program, sponsored by The Franklin Institute, invites children and families to explore the basics of building and design, learn about the importance of foundations to shape strength, and work together to build their own stable structures. What Would You Build?- 2:00-3:30 pm 6 week program selected Mondays Grades 3-5 July 10 toothpick towers July 24 popsicle sticks July 31 people launcher

Council News

Love Conshy and CPW Rotary Club are sponsoring a Food Drive for Colonial Neighborhood Council from June 24 - July 4. Questions? You may drop off your nonperishable food items at participating businesses. We will be at the Borough Fireworks at Sutcliffe on Monday, July 3rd. Contact Marissa Buck, Service Chair for CPW Rotary, at cpwrotaryevening@gmail.com.

July 2017

Ike Griffin, President * Karen Tutino, Vice President * Robert Stokley, Senior Member Tina Sokolowski, Anita Barton, Jane Flanagan and Colleen Leonard Senior Members

JULY MEETINGS AND EVENTS

ZONING HEARING BOARD: - Monday, July 3rd @ 7:00pm; Borough Hall (Tentative)

MUNCIPAL AUTHORITY BOARD MEETING: Tuesday, July 25th @ 6:30-8:30; 601 East Elm Street

ENVIRONMENTAL ADVISORY COUNCIL:- Thursday, July 20th @ 6:30pm to 8:30pm, Borough Hall

VOTING MEETINGS are televised the Thursday evening following the meeting at 7:00 p.m. on Comcast channel 965 and Verizon channel 20.

PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING: - Thursday, July 13th @ 7-9pm; Borough Hall COUNCIL MEETING: - 1ST & 3RD Wednesday July 5th & 19th @ 7 PM Borough Hall.

Borough Administration 400 Fayette Street, Suite 200, Conshohocken, PA 19428 Phone: (610) 828Ͳ1092, Fax: (610) 828Ͳ0920 Hours: Monday Ͳ Friday 8:30 a.m. Ͳ 4:30 p.m. citizenrequest@conshohockenpa.gov July 2017 | MontCoMedia.com | Conshy Courier | 23

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LUXURIOUS TOP OF THE HILL WITH ELEVATORS